| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08382611B2 |
Golf balls having a low modulus HNP layer and a high modulus HNP layer
The present invention is directed to golf balls comprising a dual-layer core and a cover. The core comprises a center formed from a high modulus HNP composition, and an outer core layer formed from a low modulus HNP composition. Low modulus HNP compositions of the present invention have a modulus of from 1,000 psi to 50,000 psi. High modulus HNP compositions of the present invention have a modulus of from 25,000 psi to 150,000 psi. The modulus of the highly neutralized copolymer of the low modulus HNP is at least 10% less than the modulus of the highly neutralized copolymer of the high modulus HNP composition. The cover comprises an inner cover layer formed from a thermoplastic composition and an outer cover layer formed from a polyurethane or polyurea composition. |
| US08382609B2 |
Golf club head and method for manufacturing the same
A golf club head has a hollow structure comprising a main body member and a face member. The face member is made of an unidirectionally rolled plate of a titanium alloy having alpha phase crystals. The rolled direction of the unidirectionally rolled plate is inclined at an angle θ1 of not more than 30 degrees with respect to the horizontal direction. The face member is provided on the rear face with a ribbed part having its longitudinal direction inclined at an angle θ2 of not more than 30 degrees with respect to the vertical direction. A method for manufacturing the golf club head comprises a step of preparing the face member which comprises the steps of: preparing the unidirectionally rolled plate; cutting out a blank for the face member from the unidirectionally rolled plate; and forming the ribbed part on the cutout blank by machining. |
| US08382600B2 |
Cross groove type constant velocity joint with composite groove patterns
A constant velocity joint for a drive system comprises: an outer joint member having a plurality of inwardly facing outer ball grooves, the outer ball grooves consisting of a first group of grooves and a second group of grooves with composite or non-linear groove pattern; an inner joint member disposed inside the outer joint member and having a plurality of outwardly facing inner ball grooves consisting of a first group of grooves and a second group of grooves with composite or non-linear groove pattern, each inner ball groove of the inner joint member being coupled with a corresponding outer ball groove of the outer joint member generally in crossed pair; and a cage having circumferentially displaced cage windows to accommodate a plurality of balls therein. The groove patterns of the ball grooves can be a combination of skewed grooves and non-linear grooves, a combination of non-linear grooves such as a curved groove or a compositely shaped groove, or a combination of linear grooves and non-linear grooves. |
| US08382598B2 |
Modularity spacer for a damper
A spacer assembly for a series damper, including: at least one fastening element with protrusions arranged to be fixedly secured to first and second cover plates for the damper; and at least one spacer element fixedly secured to the at least one fastening element and arranged to be axially disposed between the second cover plate and a flange for the damper. The at least one fastening element is arranged to be partially rotatable with respect to the flange. A damper assembly, including: a first damper with first and second cover plates and a flange; and a modularity spacer assembly including at least one fastening element fixedly secured to the first and second cover plates and partially rotatable with respect to the flange and at least one annular spacer element fixedly secured to the at least one fastening element and axially disposed between the second cover plate and the flange. |
| US08382593B2 |
Method and system for customizing electronic gaming machines
A method and system for customizing a gaming machine by transferring software files from a download server to a gaming machine. The download server may store software files in three-tier hierarchical structure and execute program logic to determine which software files need to be transmitted to the gaming machine to customize the gaming machine. The method may include (i) determining a download signature for software files that correspond to the gaming machine and that are stored at the download server, (ii) determining a machine signature for software files stored at the gaming machine, (iii) comparing the download signature to the machine signature, and (iv) allowing the gaming machine to carry out gaming functions if the signatures match, or (v) if the signatures do not match, updating the gaming machine with gaming machine software files and, thereafter, allowing the gaming machine to carry out gaming functions. |
| US08382591B2 |
Graphical user interface, system and method for implementing a game controller on a touch-screen device
A touch-screen apparatus comprises: a touch-screen display for displaying images and receiving user input in response to a user touching the touch screen display; a network interface for establishing a network connection with a gaming server executing a video game in response to user input from the apparatus, the gaming server compressing video output from the video game to generate interactive compressed streaming video, and transmitting the interactive compressed streaming video generated by the video game over the network connection to the touch-screen apparatus; a touch-screen graphical user interface (GUI) comprising: a plurality of user input elements providing user input in response to the user selecting the user input elements on the touch screen display; wherein the user input is transmitted from the touch-screen apparatus to the gaming server to control the execution of the video game. |
| US08382585B2 |
Game machine and computer program thereof
A game machine having a control unit as a first game chance control device generating a game chance achieving at least one winning combination in winning combinations whose achievement probability varies in a game within a predetermined range provided to the player in exchange for medals, a dividend value control device setting a correspondence relationship between the winning combinations and the dividend values for the player, a dividend display control device displaying an odds display section where the winning combinations are related with the dividend values on a monitor according to the correspondence relationship set by the dividend value control device, a dividend creating device generating the dividend for the player corresponding to the achieved winning combination according to the correspondence relationship set by the dividend value control device when any winning combination is achieved, and a condition determining device determining whether a predetermined dividend change condition is established within the predetermined range. |
| US08382582B2 |
Systems and methods for portable wagering mediums
Some embodiments are associated with wagering game devices and/or portable wagering mediums. Some portable wagering mediums are capable of outputting various indications related to one or more potential or current statuses of the portable wagering mediums. Some wagering game devices are operable to (i) determine a status of a portable wagering medium and (ii) cause, based on the determining, an outputting of an indication of the status via an output device coupled to the portable wagering medium. In some embodiments, a central server or other device conducts the determining of the status and/or the causing of the outputting. The status of a portable wagering medium may be based on one or more of many different factors or metrics. |
| US08382580B2 |
Gaming machine with separately settable auxiliary display
A gaming machine includes a light emitting portion, a terminal controller, a light emission control unit, a power supply unit, an input device through which a predetermined input is externally input, and a light emission power control unit. The light emitting portion emits light. The terminal controller runs a game. The light emission control unit causes: with power supplied thereto, the light emitting portion to emit light; and controls the light emitting portion so that the light emitting portion emits light in a lighting mode associated with a game state. The power supply unit supplies power to the light emission control unit and the terminal controller, separately. The light emission power control unit controls, in response to the predetermined input, the power supply from the power supply unit to the light emission control unit in a resettable manner, while terminal controller is running the game. |
| US08382579B2 |
Card for use with a game apparatus
The present invention relates to a card stack reader, a card thereof, a card case, a method for manufacturing the card, a game machine using the same, and a computer-readable storage medium on which a game program is recorded. The card stack reader comprises an imaging unit which reads an image from a peripheral side portion of a stack of cards, each card having a read code along a peripheral side edge thereof, the read code identifying the card, and a code recognizing unit which recognizes the read code of each card from the image read by the imaging unit. |
| US08382577B2 |
Gaming machine
A gaming machine according to the present invention variably displays a plurality of symbols wherein a speed of the variable display of the plurality of symbols while executing a free game is different from a speed of variable display of the plurality of symbols while executing a basic game. In this manner, it is possible to impart a sense of expectation for free game to a player without separately preparing any effect video image such as a video image showing a process of adding WILD symbols. |
| US08382572B2 |
Gaming system and method for providing a community bonus event
A gaming system and method including providing a community or group bonus event to a plurality of players at a plurality of gaming devices. For each of the players determined as eligible to participate in a triggered group bonus event, the gaming system determines that player's relative probability of winning a group bonus event award in the triggered bonus event. In one such embodiment, each player's relative probability of winning the group bonus event award is based on that player's wagering history, such as any amounts wagered by that player, the frequency of placing such wagers and/or frequency of not placing any wagers. |
| US08382564B2 |
Damper with fins
An air vent with a damper for redirecting air flow within the air vent is provided. The air vent can include a housing that has an air inlet end and an air outlet end. In addition, the air vent has the damper within the housing, the damper having a generally flat surface and being movable between a closed position and an open position. At least one fin can be rigidly attached to and extend from the damper, for the purpose of redirecting air flow through the housing when the damper is in the open position. In some instances, a plurality of fins can extend from the damper, with at least one fin extending from an air inlet side of the damper and at least one fin extending from an air outlet side of the damper. The fins can extend from the generally flat surface of the damper at an angle between 15 and 165 degrees and in some instances extend in a generally normal direction from the damper flat surface. The orientation of the at least one fin relative to the housing affords for redirection of air flow coming through the air inlet end such that it is in alignment with the air outlet end. |
| US08382563B2 |
Multi-zone control module for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system
A control module for a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system for a vehicle is disclosed, wherein a cost and a space requirement for the system are minimized and a control of temperature, mode, and volume of an air flow in a passenger compartment of the vehicle is optimized. |
| US08382560B2 |
Barrel worm-shaped tool
To provide a barrel worm-shaped tool capable of grinding processing in high precision, while maintaining the reduction of heavy load during the processing and partial wear. For this purpose, a barrel worm-shaped tool that is used in the gear machining of an internal gear (11) is formed with its diameter gradually increasing from the two end portions in the axial direction thereof towards the middle portion thereof. The barrel worm-shaped tool (12) is formed so that edge shapes (31) of the grinding wheel (12) becomes gradually smaller from the edge shape (31) located in the middle portion, in the axial direction of the barrel worm-shaped tool (12) towards the edge shape (31) located in the two end portions, in the axial direction, of the barrel worm-shaped tool (12) in accordance with the amount of machining allowance for the internal gear (11). |
| US08382557B2 |
Chemical mechanical planarization pad conditioner and methods of forming thereof
A CMP pad conditioner is provided that includes a substrate having a surface and three dimensional structures protruding relative to the surface of the substrate. The three dimensional structures include CVD carbon-containing material selected from the group consisting of carbon nanotubes and diamond, and may be arranged in a ordered array or desired pattern. The CMP pad conditioner also includes a bonding layer overlying the three dimensional structures and the surface of the substrate. The condition may include a reinforcing layer disposed within gaps between the three dimensional structures. Techniques for manufacture and use are also disclosed. |
| US08382552B2 |
Simulated eye
A simulated eye includes a semi-spherical eyeball with a light-transmitting area, a light source, a light transmitting board, and a photochromic layer. The light transmitting board disposed between the eyeball and the light source faces the light-transmitting area. The light transmitting board includes a first portion and a second portion surrounding the first position. The first portion is in a first color. The second portion is in a second color other than the first color. The photochromic layer is formed by photochromic materials coated on a side of the second portion facing the light source. When the light source is turned on, the emitted light irradiates the photochromic layer, whereby an area of the second portion covered by the photochromic layer changes from the second color to a third color similar to or the same as the first color. |
| US08382551B2 |
Toy figure with motion features
A toy figure with a movable appendage and a movable head is disclosed. The appendage is coupled to a movement mechanism such that movement of the appendage results in movement of the head. Depending on the particular quantity of appendage movements, the head is moved to the side or tilted forward as the appendage is moved relative to the body of the toy figure. |
| US08382550B2 |
Apparatus for animating doll using electromagnets
The present invention is such that a doll equipped with a plurality of auxiliary magnetic poles is inserted into a hermetically-sealed container filled with liquid and the container is circumferentially arranged with variable magnetic poles whose polarities are determined by electromagnets, whereby attraction or repulsion is applied on each portion of the doll. The polarity of each variable magnetic pole can be arbitrarily controlled by adjustment of direction of current flowing in the electromagnets to enable the doll in the container to be driven in various types of motions. Therefore, the motions of the doll can be expressed in various interesting types including dancing to the accompaniment of music without recourse to making the doll in a complicated robotic shape. |
| US08382549B2 |
Whistle
There is provided a whistle which suppresses any delay of sound to a listener and any attenuation of a sound volume, can transmit sound waves directly, can be blown with various tones, and has a large sound volume. Two kinds of whistles are stacked up and down and integrated together as a single whistle, an orifice is formed opposite to an air feeding opening to transmit sound waves directly to a listener. Moreover, an amount of air flowing into each air feeding tube of the whistle is controlled depending on an angle of putting a mouthpiece in a mouth to select a tone. A tone selecting member or an air amount adjusting flap is provided, and tone can be selected by mechanically blocking off each air feeding tube. Furthermore, an air amount adjusting flap which changes an air-feeding-path cross-sectional area of the air feeding opening, the air feeding tube, or the orifice is provided, and a sound volume can be changed by adjusting an amount of passing air. |
| US08382547B2 |
Toy projectile and launcher
A projectile and a compact carrying and launching case in combination. The projectile includes foldable wings which when unfolded resemble a plane. The compact carrying and launching case includes a two piece housing that is pivotally attached to each other about a hinge/launching mechanism. When closed, the two piece housing encloses the plane in its folded position. When opened, the hinge/launching mechanism can be pulled to a cocked position and then released forcibly moves the projectile such that it releases from the launching mechanism and is capable of flying. |
| US08382546B2 |
Flying toy able to move by the flapping of wings
Disclosed is a flying toy capable of moving by flapping of wings. The flying toy comprises a support structure; an actuation mechanism, for the wings, arranged on the support structure and comprising a crank drive rotated by a means providing the driving force; and two flexible wings arranged symmetrically with respect to the vertical plane of symmetry of the toy and connected, at the wing bases, to the actuation mechanism, the aforementioned wing bases being mounted oscillating about axes arranged on both sides of the vertical plane of symmetry of the toy. A controller receives a control signal indicating a left turn, increases the tension on the right wing and reduces it on the left wing and, for a right turn, the opposite action is performed. |
| US08382543B1 |
Adjustable fin
An adjustable fin apparatus adjustable between a first expanded position including a pair of inner elongated blades 12 and a pair of outer elongated blades 14; the blades 12, 14 are mounted to a blade housing portion 16 comprising an upper housing element 18 and a lower housing element 20; the lower blade housing element 20 comprises an elongate shape having a slot 22 formed therein along a portion of the length of the lower blade housing element 20; the inner elongated blades 12 comprise an inner edge 26 and an outer edge 28 and a bore 30 is located at an end thereof; an outer elongated blade 14 defines an inner edge 32 and an outer edge 34; and the upper blade housing element 18 comprises an elongate shape generally corresponding to the elongate shape of the lower blade housing element 20. |
| US08382542B2 |
Two fin swimming apparatus
The swimming apparatus pertains to swimming with special equipment for swimmers and divers and can be used for increasing speed, comfortable maneuvering, and making swimming more economical. The swimming apparatus comprises a tail fin, a hand-held fin and a dual snorkel. |
| US08382540B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling the motion of an autonomous moored profiler
A method and apparatus for controlling the motion of a cable-driven autonomous moored profiler. The profiler includes one or more buoyant members for buoying the profiler in the fluid, a winch, and a feedback controller for controlling the winch. The winch includes a spool, a device providing for varying rates of turning of the spool, and a flexible cable for winding onto and unwinding from the spool. A first end of the cable is carried by the profiler. The controller monitors an indication of the tension in the cable and controls the device in response thereto. |
| US08382538B1 |
Hydraulic thruster for vessel
A hydraulic thruster for vessel. The hydraulic thruster is intended for incorporation into a modular vessel thruster system, and is easily installed onto, and removed from, a vessel having such system. A housing is tiltably attached to a bracket, which in turn is removably mounted to a vessel. A cylinder is rigidly attached to the housing, and a tube is extensibly and rotatably disposed within the cylinder. A thrust means is disposed at a lower end of the tube. The instant thruster incorporates positive redundant down-tilt stop means, increased extension/retraction range, reduced shipping size, and means for securely and removably attaching the thruster to a vehicle deck. |
| US08382536B2 |
Outboard motor control apparatus
In an apparatus for controlling operation of an outboard motor mounted on a boat and having a torque converter equipped with a lockup clutch, it is configured to regulate a trim angle relative to the boat by trim-up operation and trim-down operation; calculate a speed ratio of the torque converter based on an input rotation speed and output rotation speed of the torque converter; and control operation of the trim angle regulator based on the calculated speed ratio. With this, it becomes possible to mitigate a deceleration feel to be generated after the acceleration is completed, and easily sets a trim angle of after the trim-up operation to an optimal value. |
| US08382534B2 |
System, method and apparatus for stranded canted coil spring
A stranded canted coil spring for electrical contact between adjoining elements is disclosed. The spring is formed from a stranded wire having coils that define a toroid. |
| US08382525B2 |
Direct-connect fuse unit for battery terminal
An object of the present invention is to provide a direct-connect fuse unit for a battery terminal that can restrain from being upsized and can mount various kinds of electrical components. A conducting hardware is integrally provided with a connecting terminal. The connecting terminal is bent in a plate thickness direction of the conductive hardware to project from a surface of a casing. An electrical component housing contains and holds an external electrical component connected to the connecting terminal. The electrical component housing is separated from the casing and is adapted to be fitted in the casing. |
| US08382522B2 |
Electrical connector system
A substrate is disclosed that is configured to receive an electrical component. The substrate comprises a plurality of first vias and a plurality of second vias. The plurality of first vias is arranges in the substrate in a matrix of rows and columns and is configured to provide mounting of the electric component, each first via associated with one of its closest neighbor first via to form a pair. The plurality of second vias is capable of being electrically commoned to one another and is positioned amongst the plurality of first vias such that there is at least one second via positioned directly between each first via and any of the closest non-pair first via neighbors. |
| US08382521B2 |
Shieldless, high-speed, low-cross-talk electrical connector
An electrical connector may include a first connector with electrically-conductive contacts. The contacts may have blade-shaped mating ends, and may be arranged in a centerline. The electrical connector may include a second connector with electrically-conductive receptacle contacts, which may also be arranged in a centerline. The connectors may be mated such that the mating portion of a first contact in the second connector may physically contact of a corresponding blade-shaped mating end of a contact in the first connector. |
| US08382518B2 |
Method of manufacturing electrical cable, and resulting product, with reduced required installation pulling force
Disclosed is type THHN cable having a reduced surface coefficient of friction, and the method of manufacture thereof, in which the central conductor core and insulating layer are surrounded by a nylon sheath. A high viscosity, high molecular weight silicone based pulling lubricant for THHN cable, or alternatively, erucamide or stearyl erucamide for small THHN gauge wire, is incorporated, by alternate methods, with the nylon material from which the outer sheath is extruded, and is effective to reduce the required pulling force on the cable during installation. |
| US08382517B2 |
Dielectric sealing member and method of use thereof
A connector having a sealing member is provided, wherein the sealing member prevents environmental elements, such as rainwater from entering the connector. Furthermore, a sealing member placed on the inner surface of a post forming a barrier against moisture and other contaminants proximate the second end of the post is also provided. |
| US08382516B2 |
Adaptable configuration plug in a vehicle entertainment system
A multimedia delivery system of a vehicle is provided comprising a passive configuration plug designed as a line-replaceable unit that permits quick and easy reconfiguration based on changing needs of the vehicle owner. The system comprises a plurality of multimedia servers comprising multimedia data files, a plurality of end user display devices that display information from the multimedia servers, and a configuration plug designed as a line-replaceable unit comprising: a frame, one or more covers connected to the frame, a plug mount comprising an end-user device plug and a server plug, wherein both the device plug and the server plug each contain a plurality of cable connectors, a plurality of cables, each connecting to a connector of the device plug on one end, and a connector of the server plug on an other end, the connections defining a cable mapping between the devices and the servers. |
| US08382515B2 |
High density patch panel
A patch panel includes a frame, a faceplate mountable to the frame, and at least one modular jack mountable into a rear side of the faceplate. The frame has a top flange, a bottom flange, and a plurality of faceplate opening, and the faceplate is mountable within the top flange and the bottom flange, and has a plurality of mounting openings. Each mounting opening has at least one modular jack retention latch protruding within the mounting opening. |
| US08382513B2 |
Connecting member for installing photovoltaic cell module
A connecting member 10 for connecting ends of adjacently arranged photovoltaic cell modules 4 fixed in a state in which the ends of the photovoltaic cell modules 4 each obtained by supporting an outer periphery of a photovoltaic cell panel 2 by frame bodies 3a and 3b are floating, including a plate-like upper piece 11, a plate-like lower piece 12 opposed to the upper piece 11 and a connecting piece 13 for connecting end sides on the same side of the lower piece 12 and the upper piece 11, where the connecting member 10 is capable of being fitted to the ends of the frame bodies 3a facing the same direction in the adjacent photovoltaic cell modules 4 so as to sandwich the same from a direction perpendicular thereto by the upper piece 11 and the lower piece 12. |
| US08382510B2 |
Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly for an electronic device. The electrical connector assembly having an electrical connector and a signal indicator. The electrical connector having at least two communication interfaces utilizing different communication standards. The signal indicator is secured along one side of the electrical connector, wherein the signal indicator emits different colors of light corresponding to a function of one of the at least two communication interfaces. |
| US08382508B1 |
High voltage mechanical splice connector
An electrical power assembly comprises a motor lead with individual metal sheathed conductors, a power cable with individual metal sheathed conductors and a splice connector for connecting each of the conductors. Each splice connector has a tubular metal fastener body with an upward facing shoulder at an upper end and a downward facing shoulder at a lower end. A metal nut assembly is fixed to one of the power cable conductors with a downward facing shoulder in metal-to-metal sealing engagement with the upward facing shoulder of the fastener body. A metal coupler fixed to one of the motor lead conductors with an upward facing shoulder in metal-to-metal sealing engagement with the downward facing shoulder of the fastener body. Contacts electrically connect one of the motor lead conductors to one of the power cable conductors within the fastener body. An elastomeric seal disposed between the nut assembly and the fastener body, has expansion relief voids operable to collapse and relieve stresses exerted by the seal when the seal undergoes thermal expansion. |
| US08382505B2 |
Arc-preventing apparatus for separate cord-type hair dryer
The present invention provides an arc-preventing apparatus for separate cord-type hair dryer to prevent from being damaged by an arc which is occurred when a male connector formed at one end of a separate-type power source cord is disconnected to a female connector installed in a main body of the hair dryer under a load condition. The arc-preventing apparatus is installed in a power contact unit of the hair dryer, and the male and the female connector are fixed or released by an on/off switch of the hair dryer. The arc-preventing apparatus comprises a stopper formed in one side of the female connector which is installed in the power contact unit of the main body, and protruded or retracted by a first elastic body; a rod inserted into a rotation shaft formed in the side opposite to the stopper, and rotates by a predetermined angles along a second elastic body and a guide groove, as the on/off switch is moved down; and a male connector having a first and a second stopping groove which are coupled to a stopping protrusion formed in one end of the rod and the stopper, respectively. |
| US08382499B2 |
Power connection apparatus
There is disclosed a power connection apparatus which can secure connection between a power socket and a power plug with a simple constitution and which can simplify the connecting operation properties thereof. A handle rotatably attached to the power plug having terminals includes engaging claw disengageably engaged with engagement portion of the power socket having an electrode portion, an abutment portion which abuts on the power socket, and a grip portion. In a state where the handle is rotated to such an angle that the handle is at substantially right angles to the power socket, the abutment portion abuts on the power socket, thereby releasing connection between the electrode portion and the terminals or the like. |
| US08382497B2 |
Power outlet with shield locking mechanism
A power outlet comprises an enclosure with a plug jack, a reset button comprising an extension arm, a transition contour on the extension arm and at least one safety shield configured to selectively block at least a portion of the plug jack. The safety shield comprises an outer wall and a pin groove. A shield latch comprises a travel section configured to elastically contact the extension arm, a stop section in contact with the safety shield, the stop section comprising a convex pin, and a self-reset mechanism. When the extension arm is in an upward position, the travel section presses against it, and when the extension arm is in a downward position, the travel section has a buffer space. When the travel section presses against the extension arm, the convex pin presses against the outer wall to lock the safety shield. |
| US08382496B2 |
Security device
A security device for preventing or inhibiting unauthorized separation of a first part (e.g., a cable filter device) from a second part (e.g., a cable signal source) includes a connector having first and second connector parts which are freely rotatable with respect to each other, the first connector part including a male threaded end for removable connection to the first part and the second connector part including a female connector end for removable connection to the second part. A cylindrical sheath extends in covering relation to the first and second connector parts and is freely rotatable with respect thereto. In the attached condition, the first and second connector parts are accessible for attachment and removal only with a specially configured tool. |
| US08382495B1 |
Portable electronic device having a cam mechanism for plug extension and retraction
The present invention relates to a portable electronic device, which includes a housing having a receiving space therein, a core element received in the receiving space and having a plug at a front end thereof and a track adjacent to a rear end thereof, and a cam pivotally connected to the housing at a position adjacent to a first end thereof. When the first end of the cam is turned (e.g., by the user) in a certain direction, a second end of the cam is moved toward a plug opening of the housing. As a result, a pin at a second end of the cam presses against the track and thereby pushes the core element and extends the plug out of the housing through the plug opening. Due to the simple structure, the portable electronic device can be rapidly produced by an automated assembly process. |
| US08382494B2 |
Grounding contact for an axle having a sliding contact element and a sensor
A grounding contact (10) for an axle, particularly an axle of a rail vehicle or the like, includes a housing unit (12), a contact device (16) and a sensor device (24). The housing unit consists of a housing structure (13) and a housing cover (14), wherein the contact device consists of a sliding contact element (17) that may be attached to an axle and of a contact element (18), wherein an electrical sliding contact can be created between the sliding contact device and the contact element, wherein the sensor device consists of a signal output device and at least one sensor for acquiring operating parameters of the axle. The sensor device is arranged inside the housing unit and the signal output device is able to output at least two signals having differing structures. |
| US08382493B2 |
Three-pole adapter set with a plug part and a socket part which may be plugged in the plug part
The invention relates to an adapter set (11). The adapter set is made up of a plug part (13) and a socket part (15). The plug part (13) is provided with at least one three-pole plug contact (20,30,40,50) of a particular country standard at one end and a three pole safety plug socket (17) at the other end of the adapter set (11). The socket part (15) is provided with a three-pole safety plug (19) and a three-pole multi-way plug socket (16). The adapter set (11) comprises one single safety plug (19), namely the plug formed on the socket part (15). It is provided that the polarity of the multi-way plug socket matches the polarity of the plug contacts. |
| US08382488B2 |
Coaxial connector
A coaxial connector 1, which is attached to a circuit board 2 having a land 151, includes a coaxial terminal 51 which has a coaxial structure including a center terminal 52 and a cylindrical outer terminal 61 surrounding the center terminal 52; a housing 11 which accommodates the coaxial terminal 51; and a cylindrical contact 81 which is movable in an axial direction of the outer terminal 61 and which is brought into contact with the land 151; wherein an oblique slit 82 or an oblique groove is formed on the cylindrical contact 81 obliquely with respect to the axial direction; and the coaxial terminal 51 or the housing 11 is provided with a projection (95, etc.) which is engaged with the oblique slit 82 or groove. |
| US08382482B2 |
Processes and systems for achieving and assisting in improved nutrition based on food energy data and relative healthfulness data
Processes are provided for controlling body weight of a consumer, as well as for selecting and purchasing foods, and for producing food products, based on a combination of food energy data and relative healthfulness data for a candidate food. Various ways are provided for obtaining and accessing the food energy data and relative healthfulness data. Related processes and systems are also provided for assisting in the foregoing processes. |
| US08382478B2 |
Method and material to form a cast from gypsum
A method is disclosed for forming an accurate stone cast from an impression of a body region, used for the purpose of prosthetic fabrication, such as dental crowns and artificial eyes and hearing aids. The initial step with this unique method is to first acquire a suitable amount of dental stone catalyst. One type of a suitable stone catalyst is calcium sulfate dihydrate. The dental stone catalyst is engaged onto the internal surface of the impression. This catalyst, placed in the area between impression material and stone, will act to hasten the initial setting of wet, mixed dental stone that is in closest proximity to the impression. The result is a stratified set of the stone. Setting of the wet, mixed dental stone occurs first at the impression/stone interface. The mixed stone better resists distortion upon setting and the resultant set stone cast is more accurate. |
| US08382471B2 |
Multiple hearth furnace
A multiple hearth furnace including a rabble arm with a tubular structure and a solid plug body. The latter is received in a socket arranged in an arm fixing node. It has an axial through boring and cooling fluid supply and return channels arranged around this through boring. A clamping bolt is rotatably fitted in the through boring. It has a bolt head, which can be brought by rotation into and out of hooking engagement with an abutment surface on the arm fixing node. A threaded end of the clamping bolt sticks out of the through boring at the rear end of the plug body. A threaded sleeve, which is screwed onto this threaded end, bears on an abutment surface at the rear end of the plug body for exerting a clamping force onto the clamping bolt. |
| US08382468B2 |
Method and device for combustion of solid phase fuel
Method for combusting a solid phase fuel, where the fuel is caused, by the help of a non-pneumatic feeding element (11), to be fed to an inlet opening (11a) in a burner device (10) having a first inlet (13a) for the oxidant through which an oxidant is caused to flow via a first supply conduit (13). The first inlet (13a) for oxidant is caused to be arranged in the form of an opening surrounding the inlet opening (11a), in that the oxidant is caused to flow out through the opening (13a) with a velocity of at least 100 m/s, through a burner pipe (16) and out through a burner orifice (17) to a combustion space (18), so that the oxidant by ejector action causes the fuel to be conveyed through the burner pipe (16) and out through the burner orifice (17). |
| US08382462B2 |
Vane pump with circulating oil supply passage
An oil supply groove in communication with a pump room is formed above a bearing of a housing, and an open air groove in communication with atmospheric air is formed at a position rotated around the bearing by 90° from the oil supply groove. In a shank of a rotor, a branch passage branching from an oil passage formed in its axial direction to the diametrical direction of the shank and an open air passage formed in the direction perpendicular to the branch passage are formed. The branch passage and the oil supply groove communicate with each other while the open air passage and the open air groove are arranged to also communicate with each other. |
| US08382461B2 |
Vane cell pump and impeller having a chamber wall with a projecting web
An impeller for a vane cell pump includes, but is not limited to vane receptacles for receiving an at least radially movable pump vane. A chamber wall is formed between two adjacent vane receptacles to form a conveying chamber. The chamber wall has an axially projecting web for delimiting a movement of a position ring with respect to the radial movement of the pump vane. The chamber wall includes, but is not limited to a first wall region for secure receiving of the respective pump vane in the vane receptacle. The chamber wall further includes, but is not limited to a second wall region for forming a web thickness d of the web for secure abutment of a sintering tool. In addition, the chamber wall has a third wall region for forming an enlarged conveying chamber volume. As a result, the impeller is easily manufactured and has an enlarged pump capacity for the same installation space. |
| US08382460B2 |
Peristaltic pump with constrictions at fixed locations
In a pump, a flexible tube passes through the pump and is held “normally closed” at an output constriction. The pump includes a pump body and a pump member that can perform two functions by their relative motion. The first function is to open and close an input constriction of the flexible tube. The second function is to compress the section of flexible tube between the input constriction and the output constriction. This section of tube acts as the pump chamber. When closed, the input constriction provides a greater impediment to fluid flow than the output constriction. Therefore, when the input constriction is closed and the pump chamber is compressed, fluid flows out of the pump past the output constriction. When the input constriction is open and compression of the pump chamber is removed, the output constriction closes and fluid can enter the pump by flowing past the location of the input constriction. |
| US08382459B2 |
Piston pump with improved piston
The invention relates to a piston pump for conveying a fluid, in particular in a vehicle brake system. The piston pump has a cylinder and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder. A restoring element preloads the piston, and a drive unit for actuates the piston in the cylinder to pump the fluid into a pressure chamber formed in the cylinder. The piston is embodied by a first piston par and a second piston part. The first piston part is a cylindrical body, which can be moved by the drive unit. The second piston part form the piston base, in which four radial inlet openings and one axial connection opening for communication with the pressure chamber are disposed. A flange for the disposition of a seal is disposed on the outer circumference of the piston base element. The openings are simple to make in the face ends and circumferential regions of the second piston part. |
| US08382456B2 |
Pump expansion vessel
A pump can have a housing defining therein an inner chamber of fixed volume. An inlet through the housing can provide communication to the inner chamber and an outlet through the housing can provide communication to the inner chamber. A pumping mechanism can be positioned in the inner chamber. A resiliently, compressible member can accommodate a portion of the fixed volume of the inner chamber. |
| US08382449B2 |
Fluid machine with radial cylinders
A fluid machine with radial cylinders, includes cylinders being fixed with respect to a body wherein the cylinders are peripherally spaced in a rotation plane of a crank rotating with a driving shaft of the machine, elements distributing a fluid, a piston of each cylinder placed in contact with a surface of the crank by a sliding member, the piston of each cylinder being placed within a jacket of the cylinder with contact of a side surface of the piston in a guide and sealing area which is small with respect to the side surface of the piston, and for a guide function an annular edge is present and projecting from an inner surface of the jacket, and for a sealing function a sealing ring is present on the jacket and housed in an annular slot which is parallel and attached to the annular edge, and rings maintaining the contact between the pistons and the crank. |
| US08382448B2 |
Compressed air supply system for a utility vehicle having a pulse-width modulated valve
A compressed air supply system for a utility vehicle includes a compressor that can be driven by a drive by a pneumatic clutch, and a valve having a magnetic coil for selectively supplying compressed air to a coupling inlet of the clutch. When the valve is opened or maintained open, a pick-up current flows through the magnetic coil during a first phase, and a holding current weaker than the pick-up current flows through the magnetic coil during a second phase, a driver signal generating the holding current being pulse-width-modulated in the second phase. |
| US08382446B2 |
Mini-surge cycling method for pumping liquid from a borehole to remove material in contact with the liquid
A method for removing a fluid and a material in contact with the fluid from a borehole penetrating the earth, the method including: operating a pump coupled to the borehole at a first speed for a first time interval to remove the fluid; and operating the pump at a second speed greater than the first speed for a second time interval to remove the fluid and the material. |
| US08382445B2 |
Air logic controller
An air logic controller for increasing the efficiency of an air operated double diaphragm pump. The air logic controller may increase the efficiency of the pump by controlling the supply of compressed fluid to the pump. In one embodiment, the air logic controller may control the supply of compressed fluid to the pump by replacing the continuous, large volume supply of compressed fluid supplied to conventional air operated pumps during a single pumping stroke with a varied supply of compressed fluid. The varied supply of compressed fluid may comprise a supply of compressed fluid that alternates between a large volume supply and a small volume supply of compressed fluid. The air logic controller may vary the supply of compressed fluid to the pump based at least partially on the position of a main air valve spool and the setting on an adjustable pneumatic time delay relay. |
| US08382444B2 |
System and method for monitoring operation of a pump
Systems and methods for monitoring operation of a pump, including verifying operation or actions of a pump, are disclosed. A baseline profile for one or more parameters of a pump may be established. An operating profile may then be created by recording one or more values for the same set of parameters during subsequent operation of the pump. The values of the baseline profile and the operating profile may then be compared at one or more points or sets of points. If the operating profile differs from the baseline profile by more than a certain tolerance an alarm may be sent or another action taken, for example the pumping system may shut down, etc. |
| US08382441B2 |
Method of manufacturing a blade
A method of manufacturing a blade (20) for a turbomachine by superplastic forming and diffusion bonding a first layer (18), a second layer (16) and a membrane (2), the membrane (2) being disposed between the first and second layers (18, 16), the method comprising: applying a stop-off material in a first predetermined pattern between the first layer (18) and the membrane (2) so as to prevent a diffusion bond from forming between the first layer and the membrane across said first predetermined pattern; and applying the stop-off material in a second predetermined pattern between the second layer (16) and the membrane (2) so as to prevent a diffusion bond from forming between the second layer and the membrane across said second predetermined pattern. |
| US08382439B1 |
Process of forming a high temperature turbine rotor blade
A turbine rotor blade made from the spar and shell construction in which the shell is a thin wall shell made from a high temperature resistant material that is formed by a wire EDM process, and where the shell is secured to the spar using a retainer that is poured into retainer occupying spaces formed in the shell and the spar, and then hardened to form a rigid retainer to secure the shell to the spar. The spar and the shell both have grooves facing each other to form a retainer groove. A retaining material, such as a liquid or a powdered metal, is poured into the grooves and hardened to form a retainer to secure the shell to the spar. The retaining material also forms a seal on the top of the spar and between the spar and shell. |
| US08382437B2 |
Fan structure
A fan structure including a hub and at least one blade. The hub includes a top section, an annular section and at least one first connection section. The first connection section is selectively disposed on the top section or the annular section. One end of the annular section is connected with a circumference of the top section to define a receiving space. The blade has at least one second connection section disposed at one end of the blade. The second connection section is complementary to the first connection section and connected thereto. The blades are positioned in an overlapping pattern. The blades are independently formed and are easier to manufacture. Therefore, the manufacturing process of the fan structure is simplified and the manufacturing cost is lowered. Moreover, the wind power of the fan structure is increased. |
| US08382436B2 |
Non-integral turbine blade platforms and systems
In one embodiment, a turbine blade platform may be disposed between two turbine blades. The platform may include a first exterior side configured to interface with a first turbine blade. The platform also may include a second exterior side disposed generally opposite the first exterior side and configured to interface with a second turbine blade. |
| US08382434B2 |
Fluid-propelling device having collapsible counter-rotating impellers
A counter-rotating fluid-propelling apparatus uses an oblong drive mechanism being oriented substantially orthogonal to the axes of rotation of a pair of counter-rotating impellers and which temporarily and simultaneously engages the edges of the impellers while they are in substantial contact. Each impellers can include a number of substantially rectangular planar panels, hingedly connected to one another along common edges to vertices. Each impeller has an axis of rotation that passes lengthwise through the middle of the impeller such that the axis is parallel to and equidistant from the panel edges. The impellers counter-rotate and remain in constant contact with respect to one another. During each revolution of the impellers, each of the panels of one impeller contacts its counterpart on the other impeller so that planar panels meet flat surface to flat surface and vertex to vertex. The impellers collapse so that constant contact is maintained. A paddled drive belt successively engages drive pins extending from the vertices and pushes them in order to drive the impellers. |
| US08382433B2 |
Method for producing a blade by casting and blade for a gas turbine
A method is provided for producing a blade, by casting, for a gas turbine. The blade includes an elongate airfoil which extends in a blade longitudinal direction, merges into a blade root at the lower end, has a shroud segment at the blade tip and is pervaded by a single cooling air channel running in the blade longitudinal direction from the blade root to the blade tip. The method includes, during the casting of the blade, the blade material being fed exclusively from the blade root into the mold provided therefor, and the cooling air channel is formed during the casting of the blade by using a single core body, which is provided, at the blade tip, with a local casting cross section increasing element. |
| US08382430B2 |
Aeroengine
A method of operating a contra-rotating propeller engine that preferably comprises a 12 bladed front and a 9 bladed rear propeller. As is conventional, the engine is operated during at least a take-off phase, a cruise phase and an approach phase; during the cruise phase the engine operates with a generally constant propeller tip speed. The method is characterized by the step of operating the engine such that the tip speed of either or both of the propellers, during at least one of take-off, climb or approach, at least 10% greater than cruise tip speed. With a specific front to rear propeller spacing, increasing the tip speed reduces overall noise generated by the propellers. |
| US08382429B2 |
Turbine housing, and method of making a turbine housing
A turbine housing of an exhaust gas turbocharger includes an outer casing and a rotor casing which is arranged in the outer casing and includes a tubular neck for engagement in an exhaust pipe to conduct exhaust gas from the neck in a direction of an exhaust flange. The exhaust pipe is hereby coupled to the rotor casing for relative movement there between. A sealing ring is arranged between the neck and the exhaust pipe, wherein the neck has one end provided with at least one outwardly directed projection defined by an outer diameter which is greater than an inner diameter of the sealing ring. Fabrication of the turbine housing is realized by pushing the sealing ring over the neck, and inserting an expanding mandrel into the neck to widen the neck. |
| US08382428B2 |
Centrifugal water pump
A centrifugal water pump for use in a diesel engine cooling system provides an improved water pump construction including multiple features which combine to provide increased operating life for the supporting and wearing components of the pump. The improvements include one or more of: a water seal system is provided having a stationary seal and a rotating seal made of silicon carbide with at least one of the seals having embedded lubricant; an o-ring added to the stationary seal ensures that pressurized water does not get past the stationary seal; metallic bearing seals and covers to prevent leeching of the lubricant from the bearing; optimized spring force on the rotating seal; tapered shaft impeller interface to minimize torsional stresses on these components from the keyway design of the prior art; and the housing engine oil inlet is removed to prevent the direct flow of hot, dirty, and contaminated oil from damaging the water pump bearings. |
| US08382425B2 |
Hydraulic energy converter
The inventive technology, in certain embodiments, may be described as a hydraulic energy converter 1 that comprises: a frame assembly 2 that itself comprises a first frame portion 3 and a second frame portion 4 that is positionally adjustable relative to said first frame portion, said first frame portion affixable in stationary position relative to a water channel structure 5; an axle 6 connected with said second frame portion 4; a driveshaft 7 established substantially orthogonally to said axle 6; waterwheels 8 connected with said axle 6; a gearbox 9 connecting said driveshaft 7 with said axle 6 and established between said waterwheels 8; and at least one rotational energy converting device 10 connected with said driveshaft 7 and said second frame portion 4. A related aspect of the inventive technology—a wind energy converter—may include rotors instead of waterwheels (in addition to perhaps reflecting other differences). Particular aspects of the inventive technology may focus on relative adjustability of certain components thereof, a novel and non-obvious relative positioning of known components and, generally, a novel and non-obvious combination of known components. |
| US08382423B1 |
Micro-scale and meso-scale hydraulically or pneumatically powered devices capable of rotational motion
Embodiments are directed to micro-scale or meso-scale devices having hydraulic or pneumatic actuation mechanisms incorporating bearings elements (such as ball bearings, cylindrical bearings, interference bearings, or hydrostatic bearings. Devices of some embodiments are turbines. Some devices may function as medical devices. Other embodiments are directed to multi-layer, multi-material electrochemical fabrication methods for producing such devices. |
| US08382422B2 |
Fluid flow machine
A fluid flow machine has a main flow path 2 which is confined by a hub 3 and a casing 1 and in which at least one row of blades 5 is arranged. A gap 11 is provided on at least one blade row 5 between a blade end and a main flow path confinement, with the blade end and the main flow path confinement performing a rotary movement relative to each other. At least one reversing duct 7 is provided in the area of the blade leading edge in the main flow path confinement at a discrete circumferential position. The reversing duct 7 connects two openings 12, 13 arranged on the main flow path confinement. |
| US08382419B2 |
Portable tank lifting and handling apparatus
The apparatus of the present invention is designed to provide an apparatus for placement and removal of gas containing tanks in various locations for usage or transport. The apparatus includes a transport carriage assembly with wheels for moving thereof and a generally vertical beam with an angularly positioned reinforcing member for strengthening thereof. A parallel swing brace is pivotally connected to the vertical beam and extends outwardly therefrom. A tank retaining bracket assembly is secured to the outermost end of the parallel swing brace. Holding brackets and a foot plate are secured to the parallel swing braces and define a tank holding zone. A strap secures the tank to the retaining bracket. A drive is connected to the parallel swing brace to power movement thereof in a vertical direction either upwardly or downwardly as needed. |
| US08382412B2 |
Apparatus for fastening single and multiple sheets and method for using same
A method and apparatus comprising providing a temporary or permanent connection of one or multiple sheets of material and providing an attachment point to hold these materials. A mating two part base and cap connected by a central tube connector that securely sandwiches sheet material between the two. The base may have additional passthrough holes for affixation to supports or ground. The connector may be threaded or frictionally attached and may optionally have thumb wings for easy turning. The connector may have one or more wings for easy manipulation. The connector may also be configured to receive various staking means including ones with eyelits or other attachment points and have pass throughs for stable engagement to other structures. |
| US08382411B2 |
Self-locking nut
The invention relates to a self-locking nut (1) having an upper threaded collar (3) provided with longitudinal slots (7), being V or U shaped, also with sharp edge, defining in the collar a plurality of circular arc segments (9) compressed by an external helical spring (5), and in which the collar slots have such a width as not to allow the mutual contact of the circular arc segments (9) compressed by the spring. The spring of the self-locking nut is made of precipitation hardening stainless steel whereby it shows high constancy of braking torque features even for repeated screwing/unscrewing cycles. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the nut. |
| US08382410B2 |
Anchor bolt assembly
An anchor bolt assembly having a generally cylindrical grip end spaced from an actuating end. The grip end has two relatively movable mating portions each having at least one complementary ramp surface. The actuating end is used to move a movable mating portion relative to a fixed mating portion in a longitudinal direction. Actuation will cause the movable mating portion to slide relative to the static mating portion and apply radial pressure at the grip end of the anchor bolt assembly remote from the actuating end. The grip end has a roughened surface on the static mating portion while the movable mating portion is smooth. The anchor bolt assembly is particularly suitable for use in tapered holes formed in concrete. |
| US08382395B2 |
Paving system and method for controlling compactor interaction with paving material mat
A paving system includes a machine having a plurality of ground-engaging elements and a frame. The machine may be a paving machine having a receiver configured to receive electronic data indicative of a non-uniformity in a substrate within a region to be paved with a mat of paving material. The paving system further includes an electronic control unit configured to control compactor interaction with the mat of material according to a mat smoothness criterion, including controlling compactor interaction with the mat of material in response to data, such as screed control data, indicative of the non-uniformity in the substrate. |
| US08382391B1 |
Vehicle security barrier
A roller barrier security system includes a pair of cylindrical concrete roller barriers mounted on a support apparatus in an elevated position to enable movement of the roller barriers onto a roadway to block the movement of traffic. The roller barriers are retained by cables wrapped around the cylindrical rollers and secured by a solenoid. A secondary restraint in the form of pivoted catch members also prevents the rollers from leaving the elevated position. Each catch member is secured by a slide block coupled to a drop weight secured by a trap door controlled by a second solenoid. To allow movement of the rollers, the two solenoids are activated which releases the wrap-around cable and the trap door. The falling drop weight pulls the slide block away from the catch member to allow pivoting thereof, while the released cable allows the rollers to move by gravity onto the roadway surface. |
| US08382390B2 |
Quick coupling structure of leg for table or chair
A quick assembling structure of leg for table or chair, wherein connecting rods are provided with female formations respectively, and a coupling member having assembly cavities being provided into which the connecting rods can be inserted such that the ends of the connecting rods are pressed against the snap fasteners pivotally mounted in the assembly cavities, and that male blocks provided at the outside of the snap fasteners are engaged with the female formations provided on the connecting rods so as to firmly assemble the connecting rods and the coupling member together. When the connecting rods and the coupling member are to be detached, merely upwardly pull the connecting rods off from the coupling member to release the engagement between them so as to achieve quick assembly and disassembly. |
| US08382388B2 |
Thermal printer and drive control method of thermal head
A thermal printer includes a first thermal head which is so provided as to be brought into contact with one side of a paper, a second thermal head which is so provided as to be brought into contact with the other side of the paper, and a controller. The first thermal head energizes a plurality of heater elements to print dot image data on one side of the paper. The second thermal head energizes a plurality of heater elements to print dot image data on the other side of the paper. The controller is configured to shift the energization times between the first thermal head and second thermal head. |
| US08382384B2 |
Optical module mounting unit and optical module
An optical module includes a module housing body including an electrical connection section for electrically connecting the electronic substrate and the optical module to each other and a housing section for housing the optical module, where the module housing body is mounted on the electronic substrate in such a manner that an electrical connection terminal of the electronic substrate and the electrical connection section is connected to each other and a fixing member for maintaining a state in which an electrical connection terminal of the optical module has contact with the electrical connection section in the module housing body. The optical module is housed in the housing section and is fixed in a removable manner by the fixing member, and the optical waveguide and the optical element are configured to be optically coupled to each other in a state in which the optical module is fixed. |
| US08382383B2 |
Structure for optical connector ferrule and method for making
A ferrule structure for an optical connector includes a central member disposed in the ferrule. The central member is configured so that an exterior dimension of the central member can change between a smaller size and a larger size. A plurality of optical fibers are disposed in the ferrule externally to the central member. A method for assembling an optical connector ferrule includes providing a central member, wherein the central member is configured so that an exterior dimension of the central member can change between a smaller size and a larger size. The method further includes placing an axial load on the central member to cause the exterior dimension to assume the smaller size. The central member is disposed in the ferrule. A plurality of optical fibers are disposed in the ferrule, external to the central member. The axial load is removed from the central member. |
| US08382380B2 |
Tapered roller bearing
Tapered rollers are retained between outer and inner rings by a retainer to be circumferentially spaced apart from each other. The inner ring has a raceway on its outer surface and includes small and large-diameter flanges at the small- and large-diameter ends of the raceway, respectively. The retainer includes two annular portions and crossbars extending between the annular portions. Its radially inner surface is located radially inwardly of the pitch cone of the tapered rollers to increase the thickness of the crossbars and the axial thickness of the small-diameter annular portion. The conical surface defined by the outer surfaces of the crossbars has an inclination angle that is greater than the central angle of the bearing to increase the volume of the crossbars. The rigidity of the retainer is thus increased. |
| US08382379B2 |
Ball roller bearing and method for the installation of such a ball roller bearing
A ball roller bearing and to a method for the installation thereof. The ball roller bearing has an outer bearing race, and an inner bearing race, and a plurality of ball rollers, which are disposed between the bearing races and are held at equal distances to each other by a bearing cage. For this purpose, the ball rollers have a width of approximately 70% of the diameter of a spherical shape thereof, and roll with bearing surfaces thereof in two groove-shaped raceways, the depth of which is smaller than the distance between the outer and inner bearing race. The cage pockets of the bearing cage have a cross-sectional contour of a ball roller disposed in the longitudinal and transverse directions to the circumferential direction. The method for installation of the ball roller bearing is a cross/oblique pivot mount between the inner and outer bearing races and the ball rollers. |
| US08382362B2 |
Method of making paving composition without adding asphalt content oil or minimizing addition
An improved method of making hot mix asphalt, without adding virgin asphalt concrete oil, includes several steps: adding gravel to a container; and heating and rotating the gravel in the container to a suitable temperature for creating the hot asphalt mix. While heated gravel rotates in the container, processed shingles, having a predetermined %/w of AC oil (20%/w on average), are added to a mixing auger along with at least 1 to 2 parts of rejuvenating oil per 100 parts of the processed shingles. The processed shingles and rejuvenating oil are mixed together for about 10 to 20 seconds in the mixing auger creating a slurry of rejuvenated shingles. The slurry of rejuvenated shingles from the mixer auger are then released into the heated and rotating gravel in the container, forming hot mix asphalt with a total oil content of between about 4%/w to 8%/w of the hot mix asphalt, advantageously without adding virgin asphalt concrete oil. |
| US08382353B2 |
Headlamp assembly for motor vehicle
In a light chamber formed by a housing case and a lens cover of a headlamp assembly, a projection lens and a light source are arranged in order along an optical axis of the light source from a front side of the light chamber. Radiating fins of a plate shape is vertically placed in the light chamber and radiate heat energy generated by the light source. A heat exchange chamber is formed in a ceiling wall of the housing case above the radiating fins. The heat exchange chamber has a concave shape from the ceiling wall of the housing case, and is open toward the radiating fins side. |
| US08382350B2 |
Luminant trim for vehicle window frame
A luminant component, such as reflective tape or an electrically powered component, is applied to the window frame of a motor vehicle. The component is visible from both the outside of the window, through the window and the inside of the window to illuminate at least portions of the vehicle. |
| US08382347B2 |
Light fixture
Light fixtures having a plurality of light-emitting diodes that maximize the amount of direct light into an intended area. The light fixture may include a carriage with a first (top) end and a second (bottom) end. A hood may be mounted to the first end of the carriage. At least one light engine comprising a plurality of light sources is mounted to the hood. The light sources emit light downwardly directly onto an intended area. In certain embodiments the second end of the carriage is shaped and sized so that it does not interfere with emission of the light to the intended area. The light fixture thus provides light in a thermally efficient manner, maximizes the amount of direct light, and limits the amount of light pollution. |
| US08382341B2 |
Mounting assembly
A luminaire mounting assembly comprises a mounting bracket having at least one keyed aperture, the mounting bracket having one of a slider assembly and at least one tab, a fixture housing having the other of a slider assembly and the at least one tab, the slider assembly movable between a first fixture position and a second fixture position, the slider assembly having a fixed element, a plunger movable relative to the fixed element, the plunger biased toward a first plunger position and engaging the at least one tab, the plunger movable to a second plunger position to pass the at least one tab. |
| US08382340B2 |
Interchangeable lightiing
A lighting apparatus is shown and described. In one aspect, the lighting apparatus includes a lighting component and a mounting structure. The lighting component can include a light source, a plate, and a frame. The light source can include one or more lighting elements, such as light emitting diodes. The lighting component can be releasably secured to the mounting structure. |
| US08382332B2 |
Lighting and ventilating system and method
Embodiments of the invention provide a lighting and ventilating system including a main housing. The main housing can include an inlet through which air can be received within the main housing and an outlet through which the air can exit the main housing. A fan wheel can be supported in the main housing and it can be operable to generate a flow of air. A grille can be coupled to the main housing and the grille can comprise a plurality of apertures and a second set of illumination devices. The system further can include a lamp housing coupled to the grille, the lamp housing can include a first set of illumination devices. Also, a plate can be coupled to the grille so that the plate is adjacent to the second set of illumination devices. |
| US08382328B2 |
Lighting device having fully developed lighting effect
A lighting device includes an optical lens, a scattering layer mounted on an outer surface of the optical lens, and a lighting module mounted on the optical lens and emitting a plurality light beams which are reflected and/or refracted by the optical lens and are reflected and/or refracted by the scattering layer. Thus, the light beams of the lighting module are initially reflected and/or refracted by the optical lens and are then reflected and/or refracted by the scattering layer so that the light beams of the lighting module are distributed in a two-stage manner by the optical lens and the scattering layer and are scattered and diverged in different angles and directions evenly and smoothly so as to provide a fully developed lighting effect, thereby enhancing the lighting efficiency of the lighting device. |
| US08382326B2 |
Light source unit, lighting apparatus and notice bearing apparatus
It is provided with a light source unit that can be thinner. Further, it is provided with a lighting apparatus and a notice bearing apparatus utilizing the light source unit.A light source unit 10 is configured with a plurality of LED modules 3, 3 and a constant current supplying section 2 consisting of electric components for holding constant of current supplied to the plurality of LED modules 3, 3. The plurality of LED modules 3, 3 and the electric components are aligned on a rectangular plate 11 of a module casing 1. Thus, it is possible to manufacture the light source unit 10 to be thinner. The electric components are arranged between the plurality of LED modules 3, 3. Thus, it is possible to reduce cable length installed in the light source unit 10 and to facilitate the installing works of the cable. |
| US08382322B2 |
Two part surface mount LED strip connector and LED assembly
An LED light assembly includes a plurality of LED printed circuit boards (PCB), with each LED PCB having at least one LED bulb and electrical connector pads configured at each opposite end of the boards. A two-component surface mount electrical connector is configured to connect one end of a first LED PCB to an end of a second said LED PCB such that the first and second LED PCBs are electrically connected end-to-end. The connected LED PCBs may be configured in a light tube that includes connector end caps for mounting the light tube in a light fixture. |
| US08382319B2 |
Light output device
A light output device comprises a first and a second substrate arrangement (1,2), the first substrate arrangement (1) comprising a light output surface of the device. An electrode arrangement (3a,3b) is sandwiched between the substrate arrangements and at least one light source (4) is connected to the electrode arrangement. The first substrate (1) arrangement comprises a light diffuser for changing the level of uniformity of the light output from the light source and the second substrate (2) arrangement comprises a light scattering or reflecting layer. This arrangement uses a scattering substrate arrangement for the substrate from which illumination is provided. In order to enhance the level of uniformity, the opposite substrate arrangement is also either scattering or reflecting. |
| US08382318B2 |
Lighting device and lighting method
There is provided a lighting device comprising one or more groups of solid state light emitters and one or more groups hof lumiphors, which emits mixed illumination having x, y color coordinates within a region defined by (0.32, 0.40), (0.36, 0.38), (0.41, 0.455), and (0.36, 0.48). Also, such lighting devices which emit light having x, y color coordinates within other specified regions. Also, such lighting devices with respective groups which emit light within two specified regions, and which mix to produce light within such regions. Also, methods of lighting light from such emitters and/or lumiphors. |
| US08382315B2 |
Illumination apparatus having two ends connected to different fluorescent sockets
An illumination apparatus includes an adapter that is detachably and electrically connected a fluorescent lamp socket; a power supply unit in the adapter to supply power; a light emitting device driver that generates driving power from the power supplied by the power supply unit; a controller that controls the light emitting device driver; and a light emitting device illumination unit that emits light according to the driving power from the light emitting device driver and that is electrically connects the power supply unit to another fluorescent lamp socket. |
| US08382313B2 |
Electric torch
An electric torch (10) includes a main body (1), a head assembly (2), and a rear assembly (3) releasably engaged with a rear end of the main body. The rear assembly includes a rear cover (31) for enclosing an electrically conductive spring (315), an electrically conductive cathode plate (314), and a magnetic controlled member (313, 318) therein. The spring is electrically engaged between negative terminal (152) of the battery pack and the cathode plate. The magnetic controlled member is disposed between the cathode plate and rear end of the rear cover, and can divert electric current flows in the torch under an attractive force of a magnet. The main body and the rear cover are electrically conductive, and given an electrically nonconductive surface treatment except for certain areas (11-13, 3111-3112, 3121, 3121′, 3122) for electrically connection. The torch is waterproof and multifunctional. |
| US08382310B2 |
Packaging system for the retail sale of an electrical device
A packaging system for the retail display of an electrical device is disclosed. The packaging includes a “try me” switch to allow a potential customer to activate the electrical device in the store. The product includes a photovoltaic array and rechargeable battery which is intended to be periodically charged by the photovoltaic array. When packaged by the manufacturer, the rechargeable batteries are sufficiently charged to substantially activate the electrical device. When depressed, the “try me” switch interconnects the primary rechargeable battery with the electrical device within the packaging. |
| US08382304B2 |
Dishwasher
A dishwasher includes a housing having a washing chamber with an access opening. An access door is operable to close the access opening in a fluid tight manner. A movable loading unit is disposable in the washing chamber and is at least partially removable from the washing chamber through the access opening. The loading unit includes an illumination device. |
| US08382301B2 |
Optical arrangement, in particular projection exposure apparatus for EUV lithography, as well as reflective optical element with reduced contamination
An optical arrangement, e.g. a projection exposure apparatus (1) for EUV lithography, includes: a housing (2) enclosing an interior space (15); at least one, preferably reflective optical element (4-10, 12, 14.1-14.6) arranged in the housing (2); at least one vacuum generating unit (3) for the interior space (15) of the housing (2); and at least one vacuum housing (18, 18.1-18.10) arranged in the interior space (15) and enclosing at least the optical surface (17, 17.1, 17.2) of the optical element (4-10, 12, 14.1-14.5). A contamination reduction unit is associated with the vacuum housing (18.1-18.10) and reduces the partial pressure of contaminating substances, in particular of water and/or hydrocarbons, at least in close proximity to the optical surface (17, 17.1, 17.2) in relation to the partial pressure of the contaminating substances in the interior space (15). |
| US08382300B2 |
Light-transmitting member
The present invention provides a light-transmitting member that not only exhibits high antiglare properties but also shows a transmission image with a sharp outline. A reflecting surface of a light-transmitting member formed of an optically transparent material, for example, a glass plate, has minute hubbly surface profile formed therein by blasting the reflecting surface with an abrasive or the like to mill the surface. The minute hubbly surface profile in the reflecting surface are formed so that, when the reflecting surface is divided into minute compartments of a prescribed size and a histogram is constructed on the basis of measurement values obtained by measuring the height in each compartment, the probability density of the mode in the histogram is 10 to 30%, and the variance (σ2) in the histogram, calculated on the basis of the heights, is less than 0.4 (μm2). |
| US08382299B2 |
Beam direction control element and method of manufacturing same
A beam direction control element has transparent areas and light absorption areas alternately arranged on a surface of a substrate, wherein the light absorption areas function as a louver for controlling the direction of a beam of light. The beam direction control element is manufactured by disposing an optically transparent material on a first transparent substrate to form transparent ridges which constitute the transparent areas, filling curable and photo-absorptive fluid in gaps between the transparent ridges, and then curing the fluid to form the light absorption areas. |
| US08382297B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for projecting visible and non-visible images
A method, apparatus and system for combining non-visible data and visible data for a projector enabled to project visible images and non-visible images are provided. Visible bits representative of the visible images to be projected by the projector in a visible light spectrum are received; non-visible bits representative of the non-visible images to be projected by the projector in a non-visible light spectrum are received; a portion of the visible bits are replaced with at least a portion of the non-visible bits in video data such that the visible images and the non-visible images can be co-projected by the projector upon processing the video data. |
| US08382296B2 |
Information processor with projector
An information processor includes a housing, a projector attached to the housing, and a screen attached to the housing, wherein the projector projects light onto the screen. |
| US08382292B2 |
Light source module including a light switching element and control of color sequences
A light source module adapted to be used in a projection apparatus includes a first LED device, a second LED device, and a light switching element. The first LED device emits a first light beam along a first light path during a first time period. The second LED device emits a second light beam along a second light path during a second time period. The light switching element is disposed at an intersection of the first light path and the second light path for permitting one of the first light beam along the first light path and the second light beam along the second light path to be transmitted along a third light path. |
| US08382290B2 |
Projector and method of controlling the same
A projector adapted to project an image includes: a detection section adapted to detect a motion of the projector; a determination section adapted to compare a detection result of the detection section with a predetermined criterion to perform determination on whether the projector is in a moving state or in a resting state; an adjustment section adapted to begin adjustment of at least one projection condition of the image in response to a transition of a determination result of the determination section from the moving state to the resting state; an auxiliary operation section adapted to auxiliary support the projection of the image by performing an operation with vibration; and a criterion determination section adapted to change the criterion based on a operation state of the auxiliary operation section. |
| US08382285B2 |
Device and method for determining the orientation of an eye
In a device or a method for determining the direction of vision of an eye, a starting point or a final point of a light beam reflected by a part of the eye and detected by a detector system, or of a light beam projected by a projection system onto or into the eye two-dimensionally, describes a pattern of a scanning movement in the eye. The inventive method uses a displacement device that guides the center of the pattern of movement into the pupil or macula center of the eye, and a determination device that uses the pattern of movement of the scanning movement to determine the pupil center or macula center. |
| US08382282B2 |
Progressive reading and intermediate distance lens defined by employment of a zernike expansion
There is provided a lens that includes a surface having a continuous monotonic change of power through (a) a first zone for reading at a distance of about 35 centimeters to about 45 centimeters from said lens through (b) a second zone for viewing at near and intermediate distances from about 45 centimeters to about four meters from said lens. The second zone includes a corridor having a length of greater than or equal to about 16 millimeters and a width of greater than or equal to about 6 millimeters along said length. The lens has surface astigmatism less than or equal to about 0.5 diopter within said corridor, and is a progressive addition lens. |
| US08382281B2 |
Diffractive multifocal lens having radially varying light distribution
The present invention provides improved ophthalmic lenses and methods for their design and use. Monofocal and multifocal diffractive ophthalmic lenses having reduced light scatter and/or improved light energy distribution properties are provided. These properties are provided by the diffractive profiles of the invention, often having subtly shaped echelettes with appropriately curving profiles. Light scatter may be generated by the sharp corners associated with vertical steps between adjacent conventional diffractive echelettes. Smooth diffractive profiles of the invention reduce light scatter. Light energy directed towards non-viewing diffractive orders may have a unwanted effects on vision quality. Diffractive profiles of the invention may limit the light energy in certain, selected orders, thereby improving viewing quality and mitigating unwanted effects such as dysphotopsia. Diffractive profiles of the invention can also vary the light energy distributed between individual echelettes, providing additional advantages in various viewing situations. |
| US08382280B2 |
Variable focus liquid filled lens apparatus
A variable focus optical apparatus including a rigid, curved, transparent optical component; two transparent, distensible membranes attached to a periphery of the rigid optical component to define two cavities, a first cavity between the rigid optical component and a first membrane and a second cavity between the first membrane and a second membrane; and a variable amount of fluid filling each of the cavities, and a reservoir containing additional fluid and in fluid communication with the cavity, wherein the reservoir is configured to provide injection of fluid into the cavity or withdrawal of fluid out of the cavity in response to a force or an impulse. |
| US08382275B2 |
Printer
A printer is provided that can convey recording paper at a constant transportation speed and transportation amount passed a printing position by means of the transportation force of a single transportation roller pair located on the upstream side of the printing position.A roll paper printer has a vacuum type platen member opposite the ink nozzle surface of an inkjet head, and an upstream guide surface and a platen surface that defines the printing position are formed on the guide surface of the platen member. The upstream guide surface extends to a position near the nipping part of the single transportation roller pair on its upstream side. Because the recording paper fed from the nipping part toward the printing position is guided while being constrained by air suction to the upstream guide surface, deflection in the out-of-plane direction is suppressed and the recording paper is held flat. The recording paper can be conveyed with good precision to the printing position using only the transportation force of the single transportation roller pair disposed on the upstream side. |
| US08382274B2 |
Printing system, printing control program, and printing method
A printing system includes: a head that discharges electromagnetically-curable ink of multiple colors, each color having a different ease of curing with respect to electromagnetic wave, onto a medium; a provisional curing unit, common for all of the colors, that provisionally cures the electromagnetically-curable ink that has landed on the medium by irradiating the electromagnetically-curable ink with electromagnetic waves; and a controller that determines an irradiation condition of the provisional curing unit based on an ink discharge amount for each of the multiple colors per unit of area that has been found based on print data that has undergone a halftone process for each of the multiple colors, the ink discharge amount being weighted based on the ease of curing of each of the colors. |
| US08382271B2 |
Inkjet ink, ink cartridge, inkjet recording apparatus, inkjet recording method and image forming apparatus
The present invention provides an inkjet ink which is excellent in image quality and high-speed printing on plain paper, in storage stability and in ejection stability and gives less load on a maintenance device for an inkjet recording apparatus; and an ink cartridge, an inkjet recording apparatus, and an inkjet recording method, using the inkjet ink. An inkjet ink containing a water dispersion of pigment-containing water-insoluble vinyl polymer particles; a water-soluble organic solvent; and water, wherein an ink residue from the inkjet ink has a viscosity of 3,000 mPa·s or less, the ink residue is obtained by leaving the inkjet ink to stand at a temperature of 25° C. and a humidity of 15% until substantially no mass change occurs, and wherein the inkjet ink, pH of which is adjusted to 7 with an acid, has a viscosity of 500 mPa·s or more. |
| US08382270B2 |
Contact leveling using low surface tension aqueous solutions
Release layers, and particularly low surface tension aqueous solutions, such as fountain solutions, which function as release layers. These release layers are integrated into copying and printing machines, such as xerographic machines, multifunctional devices, color systems, and the like, wherein the release layers are specifically incorporated onto a hydrophilic roll material for contact leveling of UV curable gel inks. |
| US08382267B2 |
Liquid container, liquid supplying system and circuit board for liquid container
A liquid container detachably mountable to a recording apparatus to which a plurality of liquid containers are detachably mountable, wherein the recording apparatus includes an apparatus antenna and photoreceptor means, the liquid container includes a container antenna communicatable with the apparatus antenna without physical contact therebetween; an information storing portion capable of storing at least individual information of the liquid container; a light emitting portion; and a controller for controlling light emission of the light emitting portion in response to a correspondence between a signal indicative individual information supplied through the container antenna and the information stored in the information storing portion. |
| US08382262B2 |
Inkjet printerwith active control of ink pressure
An inkjet printer comprises an inkjet printhead and an ink reservoir contained in a pressurizable chamber, with an ink conduit interconnecting the ink reservoir and the printhead. An air compressor is in fluid communication with the chamber and a valve is positioned between the air compressor and the chamber. A first air conduit interconnects an outlet of the air compressor and the valve, while a second air conduit interconnects an inlet of the air compressor and the valve. The valve is switchable between a first configuration in which the valve interconnects the outlet and the chamber via the first air conduit, and a second configuration in which the valve interconnects the inlet and the chamber via the second air conduit. |
| US08382260B2 |
Liquid discharging apparatus
A liquid discharging apparatus includes a liquid container having an information storage portion configured to store information and a supply port for supplying liquid in the liquid container to the outside and a movable member having the liquid container attached thereon. After the connection between the supply port and the apparatus is severed while the movable member moves from a first position to a second position, information is written in the information storage portion. The second position is set such that the time required for the movable member to move from the first position to the second position is longer than or equal to the time required for the information communication. |
| US08382257B2 |
Piezoelectric actuator, method of manufacturing piezoelectric actuator, liquid ejection head, method of manufacturing liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus
A piezoelectric actuator includes: a piezoelectric layer formed by a film formation method so as to have orientation in a prescribed orientation direction; and a pair of electrodes, disposed on a same surface which is substantially perpendicular to the orientation direction of the piezoelectric layer, for applying to the piezoelectric layer an electric field in a direction substantially perpendicular to the orientation direction. |
| US08382256B2 |
Method, head and apparatus for ejecting viscous liquids
Provided is a liquid ejecting method, including ejecting a liquid from a liquid ejecting head, wherein: the viscosity of the liquid is in a range from 6 mPa·s to 15 mPa·s, the liquid ejecting head includes: nozzles which eject the liquid; a pressure chamber which applies a pressure variation to the liquid in order to eject the liquid from the nozzles; and a supply unit which communicates with the pressure chamber and supplies the liquid to the pressure chamber, the volume of the supply unit is more than ⅕ of the volume of the pressure chamber and is less than ½ of the volume of the pressure chamber, and the channel length of the pressure chamber is equal to or more than the channel length of the supply unit and is equal to or less than twice of the channel length of the supply unit. |
| US08382255B2 |
Thermal inkjet printhead with heating element in recessed substrate cavity
An inkjet printhead includes a substrate having a recessed cavity formed therein. The cavity has a continuous sidewall around the perimeter of the cavity. The printhead includes a heating element formed onto the sidewall of the cavity. |
| US08382254B2 |
Liquid dispenser including secondary liquid manifold
A liquid dispenser includes an array of liquid dispensing elements positioned on a substrate. Each liquid dispensing element includes a liquid dispensing channel including an outlet opening. Liquid supply and return channels are positioned on the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid dispensing channel. Liquid supply and return passages extend through the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid supply and return channels, respectively. A liquid manifold includes liquid supply and return ducts in fluid communication with each liquid supply and return passage of each liquid dispensing element, respectively. A liquid supply provides liquid that flows from the liquid supply duct of the liquid manifold through each liquid dispensing element to the liquid return duct of the liquid manifold. A selectively activated diverter member, associated with the liquid dispensing channel, diverts a portion of the liquid flowing through the dispensing channel through the outlet opening. |
| US08382251B2 |
Nozzle arrangement for printhead
A nozzle arrangement for a printhead is provided which has a chamber defined on a substrate configured to hold fluid, an ejection port defined in the chamber, and an actuator for moving the ejection port relative to the substrate to eject the held fluid therethrough. |
| US08382250B2 |
Printing material container, and board mounted on printing material container
A printing material container is detachably attachable to a printing apparatus having a plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The printing material container comprises a first device, a second device, and a terminal group that includes a plurality of first terminals, at least one second terminal and at least one third terminal. The plurality of first terminals are connected to the first device and respectively include a first contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one second terminal is connected to the second device and includes a second contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one third terminal is for the detection of shorting. |
| US08382249B1 |
Cartridge and printing material supply system
A cartridge comprises an ink supply structure, a terminal bearing structure, and a first restriction portion. The terminal bearing structure has terminals arranged in a terminal plane which is neither parallel nor perpendicular to a plane defined by a mounting direction leading edge of the ink supply structure, so that the contact portions of the terminals receive a force in a direction opposite from the mounting direction. An engagement portion of the first restriction portion is provided at a position adjacent to the terminal bearing structure. |
| US08382246B2 |
Printhead having mirrored rows of print nozzles
A printhead having at least first and second rows of print nozzle cells. Each each nozzle cell has an ink chamber, control circuitry and drive circuitry. Each nozzle cell in the first row has a corresponding nozzle cell in the second row. The drive circuitry of each nozzle cell of the first row is arranged adjacent the drive circuitry of the corresponding nozzle cell in the second row and distant the control circuitry of the corresponding nozzle cell in the first row. |
| US08382244B2 |
Method and system for actuating redundant electrical motors to move printheads laterally and improve reliability in a continuous web inkjet printer
A method of operating a printer enables a controller in the printer to operate electrical motors to move printheads in the printer for longer periods of time before maintenance is required. Each printhead in the printer is operatively connected to an electrical motor for movement of the printhead and the printheads are organized in groups with each group being operatively connected to an electrical motor for movement of the group. By selectively designating printheads as being moveable or fixed, electrical motors that fail to move a printhead can be taken out of operation and an electrical motor that moves the printhead group used instead to continue printing operations without requiring a service call for replacement of the failed motor. |
| US08382242B2 |
Printing system with spittoon and aerosol collection
A printing system that has a media feed assembly for feeding different sizes of media along a media path, the media path having a width corresponding to a maximum width of media that can be printed by the printing system. The system also having a printhead assembly positioned on a first side of the media path and spanning the width of the media path, an aerosol collection duct with an opening on the first side of the media path and a spittoon system positioned on a second side of the media path opposing the first side. The printhead assembly is configured to eject non-printing ink drops from any section not required to print media that is less than the maximum width, and the spittoon system is configured to collect the non-printing ink drops. |
| US08382241B2 |
Image forming apparatus performing non-printing discharge
An image forming apparatus includes a recording head having nozzles to form an image by squirting droplets onto a recording medium, a transfer member transferring the recording medium and having holes which allows passage of droplets squirted by the recording head for non-printing discharge, an area detecting unit to detect a plurality of non-printing discharge areas that are areas between adjacent recording media, and a non-printing discharge instructing unit to cause the nozzles to perform non-printing discharge such that all the nozzles perform non-printing discharge at least once in the non-printing discharge areas. |
| US08382233B2 |
Head cleaning device, image forming device, and head cleaning method
A head cleaning device includes an electrode disposed in a position confronting to a bottom of a head in a cleaning position, the head including nozzles for discharging a water-soluble ink, the electrode being set in a covered state to provide a surface covered with an electrolyte which, when electrolyzed, dissolves the water-soluble ink. A liquid supplying unit supplies the electrolyte to the electrode so that the electrode is set in the covered state. A voltage supplying unit supplies a voltage between the head and the electrode to electrolyze the electrolyte on the surface of the electrode in the covered state. |
| US08382231B2 |
Inkjet print head and inkjet printing apparatus
A print head having high printing reliability, in which temperature unevenness is suppressed even when printing is performed using a print head having an increased length and density of an ejection opening array, can be provided. Specifically, a temperature equalizing member such as a heat pipe and a cooling liquid passage is disposed between a first support substrate and each of second support substrates or is disposed inside the first support substrate. This makes it possible to equalize temperature among the plurality of second support substrates and further equalize temperature among the printing element substrates bonded to these support substrates. In addition, the temperature equalizing member is made close to the printing element substrate, thus making it possible to efficiently equalize temperature. |
| US08382230B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes: a printing device which forms an image on a recording medium using ink containing at least pigment, a water-soluble organic solvent, resin particles and water; and a fixing device which makes contact with a surface of the recording medium on which the image is formed and applies heat and pressure to fix the image, wherein a minimum filming temperature) (MFT0) of an aqueous dispersion of the resin particles is 60° C. or above, and higher than a minimum filming temperature (MFT25) of a dispersion of the resin particles in a mixed liquid combining a water-soluble organic solvent at 25 weight % with respect to the resin particles, and water; and wherein the image forming apparatus further includes a controller which controls temperature of the recording medium in such a manner that, when the temperature of the recording medium in the fixing device is represented by T, the minimum filming temperature (MFT25) of mixed liquid dispersion of the resin particles satisfies MFT25≦T≦MFT25+50 (° C.), and a coating layer is formed on the recording medium, then the temperature of the recording medium is adjusted to or below a temperature at which a coating layer is not broken down. |
| US08382228B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus which forms a halftone image on a print medium by using a multipass process to scan a printhead N (N is an integer of 2 or more) times in a single area on the print medium and form dots by each scan operation includes a pass division unit which sets the print density of a scan operation in the first pass so as to prevent dots from overlapping with each other on the print medium, and sets the print densities of scan operations in the second to Nth passes, a tone reduction unit which generates print data of the respective scan operations in accordance with the print densities set by the pass division unit, and a printhead which prints a halftone image on a print medium on the basis of the print data generated by the tone reduction unit. |
| US08382227B2 |
Printing apparatus for detecting and avoiding unprintable regions on recording mediums
A printing apparatus for performing printing on a recording medium includes a printing unit configured to perform printing a plurality of images sequentially on a recording medium, a detection unit configured to detect an unsuitable area that is not suitable for printing on the recording medium, and a control unit configured to control, when the detection unit detects the unsuitable area, so as to define an unprintable region, including the unsuitable area, where the image is not to be printed on the recording medium based on a length of the unsuitable area in a direction of conveyance of the recording medium, and to continue printing the images while avoiding the set unprintable region. |
| US08382214B2 |
Case
A case includes a cover, a bezel and a locking member. The cover includes a positioning portion and a plurality of mounting holes. The bezel includes a plurality of engaging portions located on the inner surface of the bezel. The engaging portions pass through the mounting holes. The locking member is slidably attached to the cover. The locking member includes a latching portion engaging with the engaging portion and a resilient portion resisting the positioning portion. The resilient portion is detached from the positioning portion by deformation of the resilient portion. |
| US08382211B2 |
Wheel insert attachment system
An ornamental wheel insert utilizing a snap-fit attachment to a wheel. In a first embodiment, fingers carrying bosses are attached to an insert body, wherein when the insert body is seated the bosses snappingly engage a boss abutment of the wheel. In a second embodiment, a snap ring snappingly engages the insert body from the inside of the wheel to thereby securely seat the insert body at the wheel. |
| US08382209B2 |
Rotary wheel cap
A rotary wheel cap includes a fixed base fixed to a center of a wheel, a rotary cover axially mounted onto the fixed base, and an elastic member installed between the fixed base and rotary cover. When the wheel rotates, the rotary cover compresses the elastic member to a first position to form a positioning relationship with the fixed base, such that the rotary cover is rotated with the wheel and fixed base at the first position. When the wheel is still, the rotary cover is supported by the elastic member at a second position to release the positioning relationship with the fixed base. The rotary cover is rotated axially with respect to the fixed base by gravitation of a weight balancing portion at the second position. A design pattern on the rotary cover is aligned correctly by the axial rotation of the rotary cover when the wheel is still. |
| US08382208B2 |
Handle for a brush, in particular a toothbrush
The inventive handle for a brush, in particular for a toothbrush or a domestic brush, has an integral handle body with a hollow space which is surrounded by a wall. Recesses which are offset in relation to one another and open into the hollow space are formed in the wall. The handle is produced from a plastic in an injection-molding process using an injection-molding die which has finger elements, with sections of these finger elements touching in a sealing manner when the injection-molding die is in the closed state and, as a result, these finger elements forming the recesses and the hollow space in the hardened handle. |
| US08382203B2 |
Electromagnetic children's bouncer
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a children's bouncer apparatus. In various embodiments, the apparatus includes a support frame, seat assembly configured to support a child, and bouncer control device. The support frame includes one or more semi-rigid support arms that extend above a base portion and suspend the seat assembly above the base portion. The bouncer control device is configured to impart a driving force on the seat assembly via a magnetic drive assembly, thereby causing the seat assembly to continuously oscillate at the natural frequency of the children's bouncer. |
| US08382202B2 |
Stackable child safety seat
A child safety seat can be formed in a single body, and comprises a seating portion having an upper surface and opposite bottom surface, and two armrests projecting upward at left and right sides of the seating portion, the upper surface having left and right front corners provided with lobe portions, and the bottom surface having recessed portions respectively corresponding to the locations of the lobe portions. Each of the recessed portions has a shape that can fit with the shape of each of the lobe portions. When two instances of the seats are stacked on each other, the lobe portions of the lower seat are respectively fitted at least partially into the recessed portions of the upper seat, and the tapered inner surfaces of the armrests on the lower seat are in contact with the tapered outer surfaces of the armrests of the upper seat. |
| US08382197B2 |
Composite made of two steel plates
A composite is provided that includes, but is not limited to a first steel plate, which is welded via a weld seam to a second steel plate, in which the two steel plates and the weld seam bonding them are hardened and the composite has a broadening in the area of the weld seam. Furthermore, a B-column is provided for a motor vehicle body that includes, but is not limited to a reinforcement B-column, the reinforcement B-column including, but not limited to a first steel plate, which is welded via a weld seam to a second steel plate, and the two steel plates include, but are not limited to a heat-treated steel and are hardened like the weld seam bonding them, and the reinforcement B-column has a broadening in the area of the weld seam. |
| US08382195B2 |
Vehicle body forward portion structure
A vehicle body forward portion structure is provided that can ensure necessary strength and reduce the weight of a front pillar portion. In vehicle body forward portion structure, front pillar lower is formed in an overall open cross section shape that opens inward in a vehicle width direction as seen in plan sectional view as a result of front pillar outer portion being joined to pillar reinforcement lower formed from high-tensile steel plate. |
| US08382194B2 |
Outboard wake stabilization device and method for reducing the aerodynamic drag of ground vehicles
An improved method and device for the reduction of aerodynamic drag and for improved performance of vehicles by increasing the pressure on the base of the trailing vehicle or vehicle component by controlling the boundary layer as it exists the vehicle trailing edge. The subject invention consists of a multiple panels located near the base area of a bluff base vehicle. The flow control objectives are accomplished by positioning minimally sized panels comprising the invention in close proximity to the side and top surfaces of the vehicle, where the leading edge of each panel is positioned in close proximity to the trailing edge of the vehicle. The side panels comprising the invention are laterally positioned outboard of the side surface of the vehicle. The top panels are vertically positioned above the top surface of the vehicle. |
| US08382185B2 |
Tilt-down vehicle seat
A tilt-down vehicle seat including: a base member on a vehicle floor; a seatback connected to the base member via a reclining mechanism; a seat cushion that moves downward as the seatback is tilted downward; a front link pivotally fitted at a lower portion to the base member and at an upper portion to a front portion of the seat cushion; a guide mechanism that slidably supports a rear portion of the seat cushion and guides the rear portion in such a manner that the rear portion slides relative to the base member in the fore-and-aft and up-and-down directions; a seatback-connected member that moves in accordance with a movement of the seatback; and an interlocking link pivotally connected at a front portion to the front link and at a rear portion to the seatback-connected member, which causes the seat cushion to move in accordance with the movement of the seatback. |
| US08382178B2 |
Robotic finger and robotic hand
A robotic finger is provided that includes a base joint connected to a base member. By way of the base joint, a main finger member is connected to the base member for pivoting movements of the main finger member in two planes. The base joint has two driven main bevel gears opposite one another, and two likewise opposing intermediate bevel gears disposed between the main bevel gears. The main bevel gears are mounted rotatably at the base member and can be driven independently of one another through electric motors and an intermediate toothed belt. The two intermediate bevel gears are each rotatably mounted at support members connected to the main finger member. To protect the base joint, a curved cover bracket is provided. |
| US08382169B2 |
Device for securing doors using magnetic attraction
A device for securing or stopping a door relative to a stationary structure by means of magnetic attraction. In a secured position, a tilt element engages a counter-element due to magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element, and the door is stopped and optionally fixed in place, while in a retracted position the tilt element is retracted and the door can be moved. The tilt element includes a cover plate made of non-magnetic solid material and can be installed both on the stationary structure, such as the floor, wall or ceiling, or in the door. |
| US08382165B2 |
Exhaust connection member with preformed braided cover
An exhaust connection coupler and a method for manufacturing a braid cover incorporated therein are provided. The coupler may include an inner flexible bellows member and an outer braid cover surrounding the bellows member. The braid cover may be formed into a predetermined shape prior to assembly with the coupler. The braid member can include a generally cylindrical body section and two end sections each forming necks having diameters that are smaller than the diameter of the body section. The body section of the braid cover is self-supporting and is positioned an appreciable distance from the bellows member in order to avoid any friction and to create a thermally insulating air gap therebetween. The braid cover may be constructed of braided wire filaments that are formed into shape with forming dies. The braid cover may be pressed between two forming dies in order to create its desired shape. |
| US08382163B2 |
Security paper
The invention relates to documents of value, such as bank notes, checks, passports, ID cards or the like, with increased fitness for circulation, to a security paper for producing them, and to a method for producing said security paper and such documents of value. |
| US08382151B2 |
Ejection countermeasures for curtain air bags
A curtain air bag (100) for containing an occupant within a vehicle (300), configured to be attached to a corresponding portion of the vehicle (300) above a location of windows (304) in a side (302) of the vehicle (300). Each of the first and second sides (104, 106) are configured to be connected to a respective adjacent first and second pillar of the vehicle (300) at an anchoring location of at or not more than 25 millimeters below the center of gravity of a NHTSA test head form (20) impact location, preferably the inflated portion of the air bag (100) extends well below the anchoring location so that the lower inflated portion of the air bag extends 25 mm or more below the bottom of the test head form (20). |
| US08382149B1 |
Baby trailer frame mounting structure
A baby trailer frame mounting structure includes a bottom frame unit, a top frame unit, a trailer bar, two front wheel holder mounting frame assemblies and two front wheel holders. Each front wheel holder mounting frame assembly includes a base frame block affixed to one sidebar or front bar of the bottom frame unit, and a spring-loaded control member pivotally coupled to the base frame block for locking the associating front wheel holder. |
| US08382142B2 |
Motorcycle trailer
A trailer which is sized to be towed behind a motorcycle. The trailer includes a cargo bay for storing luggage, spare parts, tools or other cargo. The trailer is preferably towed behind a motorcycle in a group of motorcycles. In the unfortunate event that one of the motorcycles breaks down or a rider is unable to continue operating his or her motorcycle, the cargo bay can be converted to a towing configuration for towing the disabled motorcycle. This allows the group of motorcycles to continue riding, and the disabled motorcycle can be towed to a repair location at a more convenient time for the entire group of riders. |
| US08382141B2 |
Axle security fixture
An axle security fixture comprises one or more bracket portions configured to be secured about a rail of a truck frame, a receiving portion contiguous with the bracket portions for receiving a plurality of axles, and a cover situated atop the axles and secured to the receiving portion. |
| US08382140B2 |
Reconfigurable wheeled cycle
A cycle comprises a frame, a front fork and a rear fork. The cycle is convertible between a bicycle, a tricycle and a quad-cycle by replacement of wheels. |
| US08382139B2 |
Torsion seat-handle to facilitate learning bicycle riding
A bicycle riding training device, or torsion seat-handle, attaches directly to the seat frame of a bicycle allowing the rider to receive immediate physical feedback from the instructor. The rider can “feel” the instructor's corrections through the seat, allowing the rider to more quickly learn how to balance the bicycle. The torsion seat-handle extends rearwardly and upwardly from the seat of the bicycle, such that it may be grasped by an instructor to provide physical corrections the rider. Additionally, the angular deployment of the torsion seat-handle can be adjusted to account for the height of the instructor. |
| US08382135B1 |
Sand-rideable bicycle
An unmotorized sand-rideable bicycle utilizes oversized balloon tires that have an enlarged footprint to permit the bicycle to ride up over even loose sand to provide ease of pedaling as well as enhanced steering and stability over that associated with standard bicycles. |
| US08382133B2 |
Foldable device for connecting a front fork to a handlebar of a bicycle
A foldable device is adapted to connect a front fork to a handlebar of a bicycle, and includes a linking member hingedly connected to lower and upper hingeable flanges about first and second hinge axes, respectively. The first and second hinge axes are transverse to each other. The upper and lower hingeable flanges are respectively coupled with the handlebar and the front fork. The handlebar is turned relative to the front fork about the first and second hinge axes to permit a handlebar line of the handlebar to be parallel to a longitudinal direction in which the bicycle extends so as to fold the bicycle and to minimize the entire width of the folded bicycle. |
| US08382120B2 |
Method and apparatus for compliant plate seals
A seal assembly for a turbomachine includes a plurality of compliant plate members attached to an interior surface of a stationary housing. The compliant plate members define a sealing ring between the stationary housing and a rotor. Each of the compliant plate members comprises at least one slot therein. The seal assembly further includes at least one arcuate static ring attached to the interior surface of the stationary housing and extending radially into the at least one slot in the compliant plate members. Each of the at least one static ring extends circumferentially through and between a plurality of the compliant plate members. Finally, the seal assembly includes a vibration damper disposed adjacent to or provided on the plurality of compliant plate members. The vibration damper is configured to dampen vibration of the plurality of compliant plate members. |
| US08382119B2 |
Compliant plate seals for turbomachinery
A shaft seal serves to reduce leakage between a rotating shaft and a static shell. The shaft seal includes a plurality of compliant plate members, each having a root and a tip. The compliant plate members are secured to one of the static shell and the rotating shaft at their root in facing relation. The tips of the compliant plate members define a sealing ring between the static shell and the rotating shaft. An axial flow resistance member is disposed within the compliant plate members and serves as a harrier to axial leakage flow between the compliant plate members. |
| US08382117B1 |
Modular archery target
Presently disclosed is a modular archery target with specialized components for stopping multiple arrow types. The target may consist of a hollow outer shell, in round or polygon configuration, a plurality of interchangeable cores, and an optional rigid cap. In some embodiments, the interchangeable cores may comprise a compression core and a broadhead core. To maintain inner compression core location, elastic bands may be used to secure the rigid cap to the hollow outer shell. The compression core may be made of various loose materials contained in a bag. The broadhead core may be made of laminated or molded foam material. The outer shell may be comprised of molded of laminated foam. |
| US08382110B2 |
Gaming machine with reels
Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to gaming machines having mechanical reels. The machine is adapted so that the reels to some extent protrude from the front face of the machine to enhance the user's awareness that the reels are genuine and, optionally, the reels may have side walls having matching indicia to the symbols on the periphery of the reels. The reels may also be observed from front and rear sides of the machine or alternatively, rotated about an upright axis to enable a player to observe front and rear outcomes from one point. |
| US08382104B2 |
Image forming apparatus and control method therefor
An image forming apparatus that is capable of reducing a jam and correcting misalignment of a sheet due to a buckling of the sheet certainly. A skew correction unit conveys a sheet while contacting one of side edges of the sheet with a reference member that is arranged in parallel to a conveyance direction in order to correct a skew of the sheet conveyed along a conveyance path. A misalignment correction unit moves the sheet that the skew has been corrected in a width direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction. A sheet position detection unit detects a position of the other of the side edges of the sheet that the skew has been corrected. A moving amount determination unit determines a moving amount by which the misalignment correction unit moves the sheet in the width direction. |
| US08382103B2 |
Sheet medium processing device
A sheet medium processing device comprises a housing, a feeding mechanism (1) mounted on the housing, a stacking mechanism (2) and a switching mechanism (3). The stacking mechanism (2), which is located downstream of the feeding mechanism (1), comprises an upper channel (20), a lower channel (21) and a channel driving mechanism (22). The lower channel is fixedly connected with the housing, and the upper channel is hinged with the housing with one end thereof separatable from or contactable with the lower channel. The channel driving mechanism is used to drive the upper and lower channels to move synchronously to transport sheet mediums. The switching mechanism (3) comprises a first cam (30) and a cam driving mechanism (31), wherein the cam is joined with the upper channel to drive the upper channel to rotate. Different transporting directions are formed by adjusting the position relationship between the upper channel and the lower channel of the stacking mechanism using the switching mechanism and thus sheet mediums are transported to different destinations according to specific requirements. |
| US08382095B2 |
Sheet feeding unit, image reading device including same, and image forming apparatus including the image reading device with independent cover and restriction member
A sheet feeding unit has a main body, a sheet stack portion attached to the main body to accommodate a stack of sheets, a sheet feeding device disposed substantially above the sheet stack portion to feed the sheet onward, which is movable between a sheet feeding position at which the sheet feeding device contacts the sheet and feeds the sheet onward and a separating position at which the sheet feeding device separates from the sheet and does not feed the sheet onward, a separation unit to separate the sheets, a restriction member disposed between the sheet feeding device and the separation unit and is switchable between a sheet feeding state when the sheet feeding device is at the sheet feeding position and a sheet restriction state when the sheet feeding device is at the separation position, and a cover openably closable relative to the main body and constituted as an independent member. |
| US08382093B2 |
Sheet feed device, image forming apparatus having the same, and sheet feed method
A sheet feed device comprises: a retaining section retaining a sheet; a drive section raising the retaining section; a conveyance section conveying a sheet on the raised retaining section; a sheet detection section detecting an end of the conveyed sheet; and a control section. At the time that a sheet feed instruction is received, when a sheet is detected by the sheet detection section, the control section causes the conveyance section to feed the sheet further. When a sheet is not detected, the control section causes the drive section to raise the retaining section and then causes the conveyance section to start conveyance of a sheet. |
| US08382092B2 |
Dual hopper assembly
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a dual hopper assembly for use in a credential processing device, a credential processing device that includes a dual hopper assembly, and methods of feeding substrates in a credential processing. One embodiment of the dual hopper assembly comprises an upper hopper configured to support one or more card substrates, a lower hopper configured to support one or more card substrates and an input feed roller. The input feed roller is positioned between the upper and lower hoppers and is movable between a first position, in which the input feed roller engages a bottom substrate supported in the upper hopper, and a second position, in which the input feed roller is displaced from the bottom substrate. |
| US08382086B2 |
Universal mounting platform and system
A platform and system for mounting a tool or appliance to a workstation or for use on other surfaces. The platform is portable and includes a clamping bar and receiving pockets for receiving tables of an adjustable workstation and mounting pockets for accommodating placement of fastening hardware to secure the tool to the platform. The receiving pockets allow the tables to adjust and clamp upon the clamping bar. The mounting pockets allow the hardware to maintain independence from the workstation to which the platform is mounted. |
| US08382067B2 |
Stem seal
Any stem seal using either a triangle-sectional bushing or ring as stem cylinder seals or a ball wedge/spherical socket mating arrangement as stem shoulder seals can individually withstand the same pressure as the burst pressure of bodies without failure. The sectional triangle of the triangle-sectional bushing or ring is truncated to provide a wearing and compressing allowance for the bushing or ring, and so will be again a full triangle or an untruncated triangle when the bushing or ring is fully worn. The ball wedge/spherical socket mating is a mating which uses ball wedges as a stop shoulder of stems and the spherical socket as a stop socket at stem exits. |
| US08382066B2 |
Gate valve
Between a driving base operated by an air cylinder and a lever member fixed to a valve shaft integral with a valve plate, a connecting mechanism for connecting the driving base and a lever member, capable of displacement, and a cam mechanism for tilting the lever member are interposed, and a stopper mechanism for stopping the lever member at an opposing position of the valve plate or a full-open position, and after the lever member is stopped by the stopper mechanism at the opposing position or the full-open position, the lever member is tilted by the cam mechanism so as to incline the valve plate and to press a valve seal to a valve seat portion or a wall face in the periphery of an opening. |
| US08382060B2 |
Component orientation element
A component to be mounted on a vehicle includes a housing, a pair of component mounting passages, defined in the housing, aligning with a pair of respective vehicle mounting passages when the component is any of a plurality of orientations with respect to the vehicle, and a component orientation element, on the housing. The component orientation element cooperates with a vehicle orientation element only when the component is in one of the plurality of orientations with respect to the vehicle. A hub on the component orientation element acts to tune the component orientation element for attenuating vibration received by the component orientation element from the vehicle. |
| US08382057B2 |
Low profile seat track system
A seat track system for a seat of a vehicle includes at least one seat track having a lower track member adapted to be fixed to a vehicle structure and an upper track member adapted to be connected to a seat and moveable relative to the lower track member. The seat track system also includes a manual positive engagement locking system cooperating with the at least one seat track to allow longitudinal adjustment of the upper track member relative to the lower track member and to positively engage the at least one seat track such that a locking element does extend through the locking plate but does not extend below the lower track member. |
| US08382054B2 |
Holding device for apparatus having the same
A holding device comprises a first accommodation portion, a second accommodation portion, an elastic portion, and an actuating portion. The elastic portion includes a first end contacting the first accommodation portion and a second end contacting the actuating portion. The first accommodation portion includes at least one aperture. The second accommodation portion includes at least one connecting part, which passes through the aperture and connects with the actuating portion. When the actuating portion is pressed toward the first accommodation portion, a space between the first accommodation portion and the second accommodation portion expands. |
| US08382052B1 |
Flat-screen television mounting methods and apparatus
A flat-screen television is movably mounted on a wall for movement between a first position, disposed above a fireplace, and a second position, disposed in front of a least part of the fireplace. |
| US08382051B2 |
Wall-mounted support assembly for bathroom accessories
A wall-mounted bathroom accessory support assembly for supporting a bathroom accessory and adapted to be affixed to a bathroom wallboard. The support assembly includes: a mounting bracket; a fastener assembly adapted to affix the mounting bracket to a wallboard; and an accessory post assembly including an accessory post and a post adapter permanently affixed to the accessory post. The accessory post includes a wall defining a central body and a distal portion configured to support a bathroom accessory. The accessory post wall defines an open interior region and an access opening extending through the wall. The post adapter is disposed within the interior region of the accessory post wall and including an axially extending pedestal that includes a cantilevered flange. The mounting bracket includes a catch mechanism. The post adapter cantilevered flange engages the catch mechanism to releasably secure the accessory post assembly to the mounting bracket. |
| US08382050B2 |
Universal connector
A universal connector (5) is provided for connecting an architectural covering to an architectural surface. The connector has an adaptor plate (6) that is substantially circular and has one or more radially outwardly projecting flanges (16) and is arranged to be inserted into a ring-shaped engagement member (7) having one or more openings (18) in a front cover (17). The adaptor plate and the engagement member are configured such that the adaptor plate may be inserted into the engagement member by aligning the one or more flanges of the adaptor plate with a respective opening in the front cover of the engagement member and removal of the adaptor plate from the engagement member may subsequently be prevented by a partial rotation of the adaptor plate relative to the engagement member. |
| US08382048B2 |
Surgical holding arm and surgical holding device
A surgical holding arm has a plurality of holding arm members which are coupled to one another and a tensioning device for tensioning the holding arm members against one another. The tensioning device is designed in such a manner that the holding arm can be brought from an operative position, in which the holding arm members are tensioned against one another so as to be immovable, into an adjusting position, in which the holding arm members can be moved relative to one another. The holding arm can be brought, in addition, into a cleaning position, in which adjacent holding arm members can be moved away from one another further than in the adjusting position.Furthermore, a surgical holding device is described. |
| US08382045B2 |
Shape-changing control surface
A method and apparatus for controlling the shape of a control surface. A structure is rotated about an axis. The structure is located between a flexible skin and a skin located substantially opposite of the flexible skin. An assembly is moved to change the shape of the control surface in response to a rotation of the structure. The assembly is movably connected to the structure and is configured to move such that the flexible skin forms a plurality of curvatures. |
| US08382039B2 |
Turbomachine nacelle and anti-icing system and method therefor
An anti-icing system for a nacelle of an aircraft engine. The nacelle has an inlet lip that defines a leading edge of the nacelle, and further has an annular-shaped cavity adjacent and delimited in part by an interior surface of the inlet lip. An anti-icing system is located within the cavity and includes a manifold with a cross-sectional shape that conforms to the interior surface of the inlet lip. A wall of the manifold faces the interior surface of the inlet lip, and air is conducted to the manifold to cause heating of the inlet lip via the manifold wall. |
| US08382038B2 |
Device, in particular connection rod, for bracing a fuselage structure of an aircraft and/or for fastening a component
The invention relates to a device, in particular a connection rod, for bracing a fuselage structure and/or for fastening components on the fuselage structure.In one embodiment, the joints are integrated into fuselage structure for linking on both sides of connection rod to fuselage structure. As a result of the integration of joints, a reduced number of individual parts is produced in comparison to previously known embodiments, which leads to a reduction in weight, a reduced maintenance and servicing outlay and an improved reliability against failure. Moreover, device according to the invention enables the introduction of forces in the region of neutral fibers of fuselage structure. A further configuration of device provides only a one-sided articulated linking of a component to fuselage structure by means of (first) end portion. Second end portion is screwed to fuselage structure. To this end, both end portions are provided with a thread at least in sections. |
| US08382036B2 |
Seating arrangements particularly for passenger aircraft
Seating arrangements for passenger aircraft or other vehicles are detailed. Some arrangements position seats at offsets from a longitudinal axis of a vehicle cabin in either “V” shapes or herringbone patterns. Other arrangements include seats that are staggered within the cabin. Further arrangements include pairs of seat that are both parallel and offset from the longitudinal axis, but are placed so that feet of the port and starboard passengers point away from the fuselage. All embodiments contemplate providing seats that are convertible to beds, although this conversion is not required. |
| US08382032B2 |
Landing gear
A semi-levered landing gear for an aircraft includes a main shock absorber strut, a bogie beam and an auxiliary actuator mechanism. The bogie beam extends fore and aft of an airframe of the aircraft with forward and aft axles for respective forward and aft wheels, and a main pivot between the forward and aft axle pivotally connected to the lower portion of the main shock absorber strut. The auxiliary actuator mechanism includes a spring unit pivotally connected at a lower end to an auxiliary pivot on the bogie forward of the main pivot, and at an upper end to an anchor point offset from the pivot connection of the upper portion to the aircraft fuselage. During stowing the strut and spring unit pivot together about different pivot points, causing a relative longitudinal movement between the main pivot and auxiliary pivot that further tilts the bogie beam to a stowing position. |
| US08382031B2 |
Fan cowl support cradle mounted on the attachment pylon and on the air inlet of the nacelle
An engine unit for an aircraft including an engine, a device for hooking the engine, and a nacelle surrounding the engine and provided with fan cowls, the device for hooking including a rigid structure and a front aerodynamic structure whereon the fan cowls are articulated, the front aerodynamic structure including a cradle with a rear mechanism of hooking mounted on the rigid structure. The cradle also includes a front mechanism of hooking mounted on an air inlet of the nacelle. |
| US08382030B2 |
Variable cycle VTOL powerplant
A VTOL aircraft powerplant choosing between a low-power, turbofan mode during cruise flight and a high-power, lift fan mode during vertical flight. Turbofan mode is a gas turbine engine's shaft power driving a remote front fan. Its fan flow goes to thrust for cruising flight. During VTOL, front fan output enters a boost compressor. It produces the compressed air for a combustion chamber which feeds a large lift-fan turbine. That is the implementation of lift-fan mode. The boost compressor has more stages than the front fan and is a big added load. The gas turbine engine is supercharged to turn that added load: Part of the boost compressor output is taken during VTOL. This is a new version of the supercharging. During cruise flight, a low pressure turbine stage is bypassed to match the lesser load. That completes the apparatus for a variable-cycle VTOL engine. |
| US08382026B2 |
Multi-function paper toweling dispenser
A paper toweling dispenser selectively operable to dispense paper toweling from a roll of paper toweling employing a plurality of alternative operational modes. |
| US08382019B2 |
In-rush current jam proof sensor control
A shredder and a method for monitoring a motor of a shredder comprises a housing having a throat for receiving an article and a shredder mechanism received in the housing for shredding the article, the mechanism including an electrically powered motor and cutter elements, and the motor being operable to drive the cutter elements in a shredding direction to shred articles. A current sensor for detecting current flowing through the motor and a controller coupled to the motor for controlling operation of the motor are also provided. The controller is also coupled to the current sensor and configured to detect at least an initial amount of current (or inrush current) supplied to the motor for each shredding event. Based on the inrush current, the controller sets a parameter (e.g., overload or thickness) to prevent overloading or stalling of the motor, such as caused by a jam or overheating. |
| US08382017B2 |
Grinding system, grinding mill for such grinding system, reload cartridge for such grinding system, method for distributing material to be ground, method for selling the same and method for grinding the same
Grinding system (1) comprising a grinding mill (2) and a reload cartridge (3) containing a material to be ground (37) and adapted to be removably mounted on the grinding mill. The cartridge has a closure member (33) which is opened by an opening member (18) of the grinding mill when the cartridge is coupled to the grinding mill. |
| US08382016B2 |
Nano particle mineral pigment
Mineral pigments (such as kaolin clay) having a high surface area and particle size in the nano scale range are provided which are useful in paper coating and filling, ink jet coating formulations, paint compositions, and as a filler in rubbers, plastics and polymers. These pigments are manufactured by intensive wet milling of a mineral composition which may have undergone prior dry grinding and then optionally subjecting the wet milled mineral composition to an acid treatment. |
| US08382014B2 |
Cartridge spreader system
The cartridge spreader system includes a mobile cartridge spreader with a cartridge station configured to engage a cartridge and includes a locking controller for locking the cartridge securely into the cartridge station. The cartridge station includes an activator mechanism for activating and deactivating an engaged cartridge. The cartridge spreader includes an activation controller for activating and deactivating the cartridge. Activation of the cartridge allows the granular product contained in the cartridge to flow out of the container, through a granular chute on the cartridge station, and onto a granular product launcher which launches or impels the granular product over terrain or other surface. When the cartridge is deactivated, the flow path is sealed stopping the flow of granular product. The cartridge itself includes a fitment that engages with the cartridge station. The cartridge fitment includes an appropriately sized metering gate. |
| US08382011B1 |
Shower head apparatus
The shower head apparatus has a first end spaced apart from a second end, a first tube extended from proximal to the first end, a second tube extended from proximal to the second end, a ball valve with lever threadably disposed in-line between the tubes, a pair of spaced apart 90 degree junctions with a swivel connecting the 90 degree junctions at the first end, an attachment collar connected to one swivel at the first end, a pair of spaced apart 90 degree junctions with a swivel connecting the 90 degree junctions at the second end, a head collar connected to one swivel at the second end, a positionally adjustable shower head with face connected to the head collar of the one swivel at the second end, and a plurality of nozzles disposed distally within the shower head face. |
| US08382010B2 |
Dosing device with a manually actuatable pumping means
A dosing device with a manually actuated pumping component, which includes a pumping chamber, an inlet valve and an outlet valve in the region of a dosing opening, is provided. An inlet region in the region of the inlet valve and/or an outlet region in the region of the outlet valve is/are provided with flow profiles. The dosing device is to be used for dispensing pharmaceutical liquids. |
| US08382009B2 |
Percussive sprinkler with adjustable discharge angle
A percussive sprinkler with adjustable discharge angle has a pedestal, adjusting ring, main body, percussion guide frame and sprinkler head driving rod. The percussive sprinkler is characterized by that, the height of the spacing for the driving rod retaining surface of the adjusting ring can be adjusted via an adjustor, such that the second end on the sprinkler head driving rod connected to the sprinkler head is abutted onto the driving rod retaining surface. When the main body of the percussive sprinkler is rotated, the sprinkler head driving rod will shift vertically along the circumferential path on the driving rod retaining surface, so the sprinkler head is driven to swing vertically with change of the discharge angle. In such a case, spray with different sprinkling distance can be generated by the sprinkler head, thus making up the shortcomings for more uniform sprinkling coverage with higher flexibility and applicability. |
| US08382006B2 |
Fuel injector assembly
A control valve includes a main body, the first coil assembly arranged on the first side of the main body and having the first contact surface and the first through hole extending from the first contact surface, the second coil assembly arranged on the second side of the main body and having the second contact surface and the second through hole extending from the second contact surface, and a spool arranged within the main body and configured to move between the first and second contact surfaces. The spool has the third contact surface facing the first contact surface, the fourth contact surface facing the second contact surface, and the third through hole extending from the third contact surface to the fourth contact surface. A surface pattern is formed on one or more of the first, second, third and fourth contact surfaces and includes the first recessed portion substantially extending from an inner circumference to an outer circumference of the corresponding one of the first, second, third and fourth contact surfaces. |
| US08381999B2 |
Selectively switching antennas of transaction cards
The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for selectively switching antennas of transaction cards. In some implementations, a method includes physically interfacing a card with a mobile host device including a Graphical User Interface (GUI). The card executes wireless financial transactions independent of the mobile host device. User credentials used to execute financial transactions with retail terminals are stored. Information is presented through the GUI of the mobile host device. An antenna of the card is selectively switched between an activate state and an inactive state in response to at least an event. |
| US08381997B2 |
Radio frequency IC device and method of manufacturing the same
A radio frequency IC device that prevents variations in the value of capacitive coupling between a radio frequency IC element and a radiation electrode and has good signal transmission efficiency includes a radio frequency IC element including input/output electrodes and, a first base including intermediate electrodes that are capacitively coupled to the input/output electrodes and have capacitance values C1a and C1b, respectively, and a second base including radiation electrodes and that are capacitively coupled to the intermediate electrodes and have capacitance values C2a and C2b, respectively. A capacitance C1 obtained by combining C1a and C1b is smaller than a capacitance C2 obtained by combining C2a and C2b. |
| US08381995B2 |
Payment card dynamically receiving power from external source
A payment card with a display and/or dynamic magnetic stripe that operates using power received from an electro-magnetic/RF signal, without the need for incorporating a battery within the payment card. In one example, a payment card includes a receiver for receiving an external electro-magnetic signal and converting it to an electrical signal for powering the payment card; a CPU coupled with the electrical signal of the receiver; a display (i.e., a persistent display) for displaying data, wherein the display receives power based on the electrical signal from the receiver; and a dynamic magnetic stripe storing magnetically readable data, wherein the dynamic magnetic stripe receives power based on the electrical signal from the receiver. Responsive to the electro-magnetic signal received by the payment card, the data displayed on the display and stored in the dynamic magnetic stripe is changed. Methods relating to a payment card are also disclosed. |
| US08381990B2 |
Antenna module
An antenna module in which an antenna coil formed of a metal foil and a condenser are formed on an insulating substrate, the antenna module includes: a control circuit configured to control communications done by the antenna coil, the control circuit disposed on the insulating substrate; and a pattern formed of a metal foil, wherein the pattern is formed on the insulating substrate on the opposite side of the control circuit through the insulating substrate, and the control circuit has: a detecting means for detecting a temperature of the control circuit, and a control means for terminating the communications when a temperature of the control circuit is equal to or above a predetermined temperature. |
| US08381988B2 |
Security devices
The present invention relates to improvements in security devices that can be used in varying shapes and sizes for various authenticating or security applications, and in particular to an optically variable security device utilizing colorshift materials. The security device (10) comprises a first and a second layer (11a, lib) of a colorshifting material at least partially overlying each other and each having different colorshifting properties. At least partially applied over surface of one of the colorshifting layers is a light control layer (12) having a surface structure which modifies the angle of reflected light, such that light reflected by the security device is seen at a different viewing angle. |
| US08381986B2 |
Check processing device
Swinging open the upstream-side cover part (31) and downstream-side cover part (32) of the check scanning apparatus (1) on a common support pivot (33) opens a U-shaped check transportation path (5). The check transportation path (5) can be opened with a simple single-action operation to remove checks (4) jammed in the check transportation path (5) and for maintenance of the magnetic head (84) and contact image sensors (82 and 83). When the task is completed, the open check transportation path (5) can also be returned to the original closed position by a simple single-action operation. If only those parts that require maintenance are exposed when the check transportation path is open, tasks that require opening the transportation path can be done without damaging other parts and without soiling the operator's fingers. |
| US08381985B2 |
Camera applications in a handheld device
A hand held device containing at least one camera can perform various functions. In some embodiments, the device may have a primary lens for focusing on distant objects, and a secondary lens that may be combined with the primary lens for focusing on up-close objects. The secondary lens may be movable in and out of the optical path to permit such a transition. |
| US08381982B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing and controlling manned and automated utility vehicles
A method and apparatus for managing manned and automated utility vehicles, and for picking up and delivering objects by automated vehicles. A machine vision image acquisition apparatus determines the position and the rotational orientation of vehicles in a predefined coordinate space by acquiring an image of one or more position markers and processing the acquired image to calculate the vehicle's position and rotational orientation based on processed image data. The position of the vehicle is determined in two dimensions. Rotational orientation (heading) is determined in the plane of motion. An improved method of position and rotational orientation is presented. Based upon the determined position and rotational orientation of the vehicles stored in a map of the coordinate space, a vehicle controller, implemented as part of a computer, controls the automated vehicles through motion and steering commands, and communicates with the manned vehicle operators by transmitting control messages to each operator. |
| US08381981B2 |
Radio frequency identification of lighting fixtures
A lighting system is disclosed wherein each fixture in the lighting system includes a permanently attached radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Each fixture also includes either a matching hardwired identification chip or an RFID reader capable of reading the RFID tag. The tags can be used for commissioning the lighting system by reading the tags with a portable reader and assigning or removing fixtures from groups. The tags can also be used for other tasks requiring identification and tracking of specific fixtures. |
| US08381974B2 |
Emulated radio frequency identification
A mobile communication device is equipped with hardware and/or software components to enable the device to output a data in a form of a radio frequency signal, emulating outputting of the data by either an active or a passive RFID transponder. The data may be a security key or an identifier. Emulation of an active RFID transponder includes facilitating selection of the data and instruction to output by a user. Emulation of a passive RFID transponder includes detecting for proximal presence of a RFID reader. Either case, provision of the data to the mobile communication device may include provision of associated signal attribute(s). |
| US08381969B1 |
Method and system for using machine-readable codes to perform a transaction
A system and associated processes for consolidating and replacing various forms of payment (e.g. credit cards, debit cards, and cash) with a single payment system is presented. A client system can read a machine-readable code generated by a merchant system associated with a merchant, or other product or service provider, and present the information encoded by the machine-readable code to a customer. Upon receiving confirmation that the customer desires to proceed with the transaction, the client system can initiate payment by contacting a payment system associated with the customer. This payment system can then transfer payment to the merchant by, for example, transferring cash from the customer's account or using credit associated with the customer's account. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure enable a customer to complete a transaction without using, for example, cash, a credit card, or a debit card. |
| US08381968B2 |
Convertible food tray
A food tray is automatically convertible from a flat position to an erect, elevated position. The food tray is fabricated as a blank, preferably of rigid cardboard, which is appropriately folded and, with interlocking tabs, assembled to lay flat under the food, particularly a pizza pie, when the pizza remains in its flat delivery box. When the pizza is to be removed from its box, the central tray section of the convertible food tray is lifted, with the pizza thereon. This permits folded wing sections of the tray located beneath the central section to swing down to become tray leg support members. When the support members of the tray are placed on a table or similar surface, the weight of the pizza on the central section compels the support members inward, to a position perpendicular to the central section, to securely provide elevated support to the pizza on the food tray. |
| US08381967B1 |
Bonding a solder bump to a lead using compression and retraction forces
Methods of connecting solder bumps located on dies to leads located on substrates are disclosed herein. One embodiment includes applying a first compression force between the solder bump and the lead; relieving the first compression force between the solder bump and the lead; and applying a second compression force between the solder bump and the lead. |
| US08381959B1 |
Stapler extension mechanism
A stapler extension mechanism is disclosed that is attached to the operating handle of a squeeze handle stapler that permits the stapler to be operated against a ceiling without the operator having to climb onto a ladder, against a floor without the operator having to bend over, or into a wall. The stapler extension mechanism has a head that is fastened to the operating handle of the squeeze handle stapler and an adjustable elongated handle is attached to the head. The operator positions the stapler using the elongated handle, and then applies a pushing force via the elongated handle to depress the squeeze handle and operate the stapler. |
| US08381957B2 |
Bag dispenser
The invention relates to a bag (30) dispenser comprising a receptacle (10) inside which a supply of bags (30) is located. Said bags (30) form a supply roll (37). The dispenser further comprises a device for accommodating or mounting said roll (37) in a housing (1). The housing (1) has at least one gap (17) through which individual bags (30) can be discharged from the housing (1). One respective tearing mechanism (20) is assigned to said gap (17). |
| US08381952B2 |
Clothes hanger with fold-away hook
The finding concerns a clothes hanger with fold-away hook. Therein, in that the base of the hook, on one side is connected to the arched body through a flexible tongue, which allows the aforementioned hook to elastically twist, in particular to rotate by 90° and more, from vertical to horizontal and vice versa, or else from perpendicular to parallel on the arched body, whereas on the opposite side said base is equipped with a fastening system that, in the operative step, holds the hook on the body, so that, when the hook is lifted, the clothes hanger takes up the typical configuration, the normal function and has the same strength as a common clothes hanger with fixed hook. |
| US08381947B2 |
Bead feeder
A bead feeder serially delivering beads to a downstream location comprises a bead supply wheel connected to rotate about a vertical axis. The bead supply wheel includes a bead supply bowl and a plurality of radially and outwardly extending bead passageway connected to rotate with the bowl and dimensioned to receive a single line of beads. A plurality of openings in the bead supply bowl is spaced around a lower portion thereof with the openings in alignment with the radially and outwardly extending passageways each of which has an outer exit end. A metering plate is connected to rotate about the same vertical axis as the bead supply wheel, and metering plate has a plurality of equally spaced apart openings directly below the outer ends of the passageways for receiving the lowermost beads in the passageways. The metering plate rotates at a slightly slower or slightly faster speed than the bead supply wheel so that vertical alignment of an outer exit end of a particular passageway and an opening in the metering plate only occurs once for each revolution of the bead supply wheel. A drop off is provided for the removal of beads away from the metering plate. |
| US08381941B2 |
Flexible container with integral dispensing tube
A package for containing a viscous substance in a transport configuration and for dispensing the viscous substance in a dispensing configuration is disclosed. The package includes first and second sheets disposed in opposing relation that are sealed together around a perimeter. The package has a compartment that defines a space for holding the viscous substance. The package further includes an integral tube having a first end in fluid communication with the compartment, and a second end that is closed in the transport configuration. The second end can be opened such that the viscous substance contained in the package can flow from the container, through the integral tube, and exit the package via the opening. The second end of the integral tube is positionable independent of the compartment for depositing the substance at multiple, spaced apart target locations without moving the compartment. |
| US08381940B2 |
Pressure reinforced plastic container having a moveable pressure panel and related method of processing a plastic container
A plastic container comprises an upper portion including a finish adapted to receive a closure, a lower portion including a base, and a sidewall extending between the upper portion and the lower portion. The upper portion, the lower portion, and the sidewall define an interior volume for storing liquid contents. The plastic container further comprises a pressure panel located on the container and moveable between an initial position and an activated position. The pressure panel is located in the initial position prior to filling the container, and is moved to the activated position after filling and sealing the container. Moving the pressure panel from the initial position to the activated position reduces the internal volume of the container and creates a positive pressure inside the container. The positive pressure reinforces the sidewall. A method of processing a container is also disclosed. |
| US08381939B2 |
Insulated storage tank
An insulated storage tank incorporating modular panels includes a structural rigidity to store large volumes of hot and cold liquids. The insulated storage tank includes a plurality of insulating panels disposed on an insulation substrate in a circumferential pattern, the insulating panels each in proximate contact with two other panels forming a cylindrical wall. The insulating panels are a rigid structure and provide structural support to an inner liner disposed within the cylindrical wall and operable to be filled with a hot or cold liquid. The cylindrical wall of insulating panels is further supported by a thin outer support jacket. The insulated storage tank has a lid disposed on the insulating panels thereby sealing the contents of the insulated storage tank. |
| US08381938B2 |
Propellant tank for cryogenic liquids
In a propellant tank, which especially stores cryogenic propellants, for example a fuel or an oxidizer for a spacecraft, and which operates with a driving gas to drive or convey the propellant, the propellant is separated from the driving gas in a propellant extraction apparatus using sieves with hydrostatic forces and capillary forces. The extraction apparatus includes a refillable reservoir, which is mounted near the tank floor outside of the tank shell, and which is connected via plural holes with the interior of the propellant tank. The extraction apparatus includes a double-walled housing that is thermally insulated. Capillary plates and struts are inserted in an L-shape into the reservoir. To substantially prevent the penetration of gas out of the propellant line, a cylinder-shaped pleated sieve is mounted at the end of the propellant line. |
| US08381937B2 |
Double-walled tank container
The present invention concerns a double-walled tank container, whereby the inner container is stored at the bottom inside the outer enclosure by a spacer consisting of several spacer pieces. The spacer provided, which is preferably placed near a front saddle ring, imparts transportation and storage stresses between the inner tank and the outer enclosure and consequently between the inner container and the frame of the tank container. The spacer can be laid out in such a way that it absorbs shocks and/or defines a hollow space. This hollow space can serve as a thermal insulation or for the installation of temperature equalization devices, mediums or a leak detector fluid. |
| US08381933B2 |
Garbage bin
A garbage bin includes a bin body, a bin head, an inducting window, a garbage inlet disposed on the bin head, a bin cover disposed on the garbage inlet, an upright shaft and a driving unit for making the upright shaft rotate. The upright shaft is connected to the driving unit, and the bin cover is connected to the upright shaft, in which the connecting point is not at the center of the bin cover. The advantages of the invention is that the rotating shaft of the bin cover is the upright shaft on the bin head, so when the bin cover rotates about the upright shaft, the bin cover opens horizontally about the upright shaft, so that the driving force is small, the energy consumption is low, and a user's hand is prevented from touching by the bin cover. |
| US08381932B2 |
Storage system
A storage system for storing a plurality of fluids or other goods has a plurality of containers adapted to fit within a receptacle. Each of the containers has an inner sidewall, an outer sidewall, and a top sidewall having a spout sealable with a cap such that the container contains the fluid or other goods when the cap is engaged with the spout. The plurality of containers are shaped such that the containers are stackable or nestable within the receptacle such that the containers tessellate, the inner sidewalls of the containers abutting each other, and the outer sidewalls abutting the inner surface of the receptacle, filling substantially all of the receptacle. |
| US08381931B1 |
Integrated dual container bucket assembly
A janitorial bucket conveyance system that combines a mobile container receiving containment enclosure with multiple insertable independent identical buckets for use in commercial cleaning environments. The independent identical buckets are positioned for use and transportation within the enlarged mobile containment enclosure onto which cleaning associated accessory can be selectively mounted related to floor washing requirements. |
| US08381919B2 |
Storing device for a dishwashing machine
Provided is a mat device to be arranged in a basket of a dishwashing machine. The mat device includes a base structure including a rigid supporting structure and a flexible structure allowing the base structure to be at least partially conformed to a bottom of the basket. The base structure is at least partially covered by an elastic material, supports a flexible structure for receiving dishes or cutlery, or is at least partially covered by the elastic material and supports the flexible structure for receiving the dishes or cutlery. |
| US08381917B2 |
Method for destroying banknotes
A method for destroying bank notes is provided, wherein bank notes are checked and sorted by at least one bank-note processing machine in at least one decentralized place, whereby unfit bank notes are sorted out in order to be transported to a central place for destruction. It is provided that all bank notes recognized as unfit are stored on a single stack independently of the bank-note denomination and/or orientation recognized during the check, for which purpose a single output pocket of the bank-note processing machine is used for all unfit bank notes. |
| US08381914B2 |
Method for recovering silicon from sawing waste
A method for separating and recovering silicon debris from sawing waste is characterized in that it includes the following steps: —treating the sawing waste so as to deoxidize the silicon debris in a manner that reduces their surface energy, —applying to the sawing waste thus treated a flotation method using a flotation liquid and a nonoxidizing flotation gas, and —recovering the silicon debris at the surface of the flotation liquid. |
| US08381913B2 |
Method and apparatus for separating parts, in particular seeds, having different densities
A method for separating seeds of different densities in a process stream, wherein the seeds are introduced into a magnetic process fluid for the formation of the process stream, which process stream is subjected to a magnetic field for the realization of a density stratification in the process stream, such that the individual seeds in the process stream assume a density-dependent position, after which the seeds located in or near a predetermined position or positions in the process stream, are separated from the remaining seeds in the process stream. |
| US08381912B2 |
Tray for retaining food items during transportation
A tray for retaining food items during transportation includes a lower deck having a base and a side wall extending about and upward from a perimeter of the base; an upper deck which includes a plurality of apertures spatially positioned across the deck, the upper deck configured to fit within the lower deck and removably disposed thereon; and a plurality of pegs, each peg configured to friction fit within at least one of the apertures to be retained therein. |
| US08381909B2 |
Stackable caddy system
A tray system is described herein comprising a plurality of trays. Each of the trays comprise generally increasing widths and lengths, and may be alternatively arranged in a stacked configuration, in which a tray with a larger width and length is stacked on a tray with a smaller width and length, or in a nested configuration, in which a tray with a smaller width and length is nested within a tray with a larger width and length. The trays further comprise latches that selectively lock the trays in the stacked configuration and prevent the accidental unlocking thereof when the stacked trays are being lifted or otherwise moved. |
| US08381906B2 |
Bulk wire dampening apparatus and method
A bulk wire dampening apparatus has a rod, an optional bracket, and a damper assembly. The damper assembly includes a sleeve and a damper where the sleeve slideably engages the rod. |
| US08381904B1 |
Protective covering for personal electronic device
A personal electronic device protective wallet covering. A main housing is dimensioned to fit securely and snugly around a personal electronic device. The main housing includes a window disposed on a front side of the housing allowing usable access to a front surface of a device disposed in the housing. A rear protective face at least partially covers a rear surface of the device disposed inside. A preferably externally accessible pocket is formed coextensively with the rear protective face, adapted to allow insertion and removal of cards or paper currency into and out of the pocket in the manner of a wallet. The window may be an absence of housing material, allowing direct user contact with the front of the device, or it may thin and transparent, allowing functional contact therethrough. The pocket may be formed between the housing and the device or between the housing and an additional layer. |
| US08381898B2 |
Apparatus for pushing glass articles onto a belt conveyor
An apparatus for pushing hollow glass articles from a depositing plate of an IS glass molding machine onto a belt conveyor comprises a transfer pusher (11), one end of which is rigidly connected to a vertical shaft (10) and the other end of which carries an arrangement of pushing fingers for the glass articles. The shaft (10) is supported in a rotary table (6) and functionally connected to a first rotary drive (13) carried by the rotary table while the rotary plate (6) is mounted on a bell-shaped bearing (24) supported on a console (1) by means of a hollow shaft (22), namely such that it is functionally connected to a second rotary drive (15′). An approximately exponential transfer curve of the pushing fingers that begins at the depositing plate and ends on the belt conveyor and subjects the hollow glass articles to the least possible stress can be realized. |
| US08381896B2 |
Ejection system
A conveyer apparatus for transporting and processing tablets includes a conveyer and an ejection system. Each of the tablets includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a belly band that interconnects the first and second sides. The conveyer includes a plurality of carrier links to convey a plurality of tablets along a predetermined conveyer path. Each carrier link has a pocket to receive and transport a tablet in a vertical orientation along the predetermined conveyer path. The ejection system is structured to selectively accept or eject a tablet from the carrier link in response to a signal provided by a sensor positioned upstream of the ejection system. The ejection system includes at least one ejection finger movable between a non-ejection position in which the ejection finger is positioned out of the conveyer path of the carrier link and an ejection position in which the ejection finger is positioned with respect to the carrier link to contact and eject the tablet from the carrier link. At least a portion of the ejection finger defines a width that is smaller than a tablet width of the tablet and larger than a link width of the carrier link. |
| US08381893B2 |
Insertion device for coins
The invention proposes an insertion device for coins for transferring said coins to a coin tester or to a coin-operated machine, having an insertion slot and having a coin outlet, between which is arranged a rotatable drum having a receiving region for receiving a coin, wherein in a receiving position, the receiving region is accessible to a coin which can be inserted through the insertion slot, and the insertion slot can be closed off by means of rotation of the drum. The drum having the receiving region is covered by a flap which can be opened in a controlled fashion in an ejection position for ejecting foreign material. |
| US08381889B2 |
Dual clutch
A dual clutch, which has a first friction clutch pulled by a first lever actuator and a second friction clutch pushed by a second lever actuator. The lever actuators each have a lever that is spring-loaded on one side and lever tips which are moved by a bearing block. The bearing block can be moved radially with along a profile of the lever to set a variable contact point of the lever between a rigid base plate and the lever to act on actuating bearings of the friction clutches. The bearing block is actuated by force application in one of the radial directions of motion by a drive controlled by a control unit in an automated manner. The drive of both lever actuators is formed by a pneumatic controller. In each drive a piston is movable in a housing and is connected to the bearing block by a piston rod. |
| US08381881B2 |
Brake sensor apparatus for bicycles
A brake sensor apparatus is provided, including a base unit, a movement unit, a spring, a first buckle unit and a second buckle unit. The movement unit is partially confined inside the base unit so that the movement of the movement unit is restricted to a short distance and along the direction of the base unit. The spring is to allow the retracted movement unit to be moved to the original position. The first buckle unit and the second buckle unit are engaged respectively to the outer wall of base unit and movement unit, and can be hanged and buckled to the positions of brake wire of the brake. In this manner, when the bicycle brakes, the movement unit is retracted into the base unit so as to trigger the trigger switch to connect the connected circuit. |
| US08381876B1 |
Tree climbing tree stand
A tree climbing tree stand comprising, in combination a lower foot portion. The lower foot portion has a lower flexible tree strap coupled there to. There is also provided an upper portion. The upper portion has an upper flexible tree strap coupled there to. |
| US08381869B2 |
Electric power steering device
An electric power steering device for a vehicle includes an estimation mechanism estimating if there is a possibility that a backward electric current flows in a booster circuit toward a vehicle battery device, and a boosting controller stopping the boosting operation of the booster circuit to prevent a backward electric current from flowing in the booster circuit when it is estimated that there is a possibility that a backward electric current flows by the estimation mechanism. The estimation mechanism estimates that there is a possibility that a backward electric current flows in the booster circuit when the steering condition of a steering wheel is a returning condition or a steering-held condition. Otherwise, the estimation mechanism estimates if a backward electric current flows on the basis of input and output voltages of the booster circuit and information on the switching of a first boosting switching element. Thereby, overheat of the booster circuit can be prevented. |
| US08381868B2 |
Electric power steering system
An electric power steering system includes a worm reduction gear. An end portion of worm shaft, the end portion being distant from a motor, is urged toward a worm wheel. The worm shaft is supported by a bearing at an end portion close to the motor. A movement inhibitor that includes an elastic element is arranged between the worm shaft and the bearing. The movement inhibitor allows the worm shaft to move within a predetermined range in a radial direction of the worm shaft with respect to the bearing and allows the worm shaft to move within a predetermined range in an axial direction of the worm shaft with respect to the bearing. |
| US08381865B2 |
Construction machine
A gate-shaped muffler mount including front and rear leg portions and a muffler attaching portion is attached to a mounting bracket for supporting an engine with bolts so as to straddle a hydraulic pump. One of mounting holes has a diameter larger than the diameter of the bolt, and the muffler mount is therefore rotatable around the other bolt along the axial direction of a bellows. By this rotation, the bellows can be positionally adjusted in the axial direction relative to an engine exhaust pipe so that assembly errors can be absorbed. |
| US08381859B2 |
Inverted pendulum type vehicle
An inverted pendulum type vehicle (1) includes a lower frame incorporated with load sensor having an input portion 60 for receiving an external force and an upper frame (3) provided with a saddle 11 for supporting a load of a rider or a cargo and a grip handle (31) for enabling a user not riding the vehicle to support the vehicle (1), the upper frame being connected to the lower frame via the input portion of the load sensor. Therefore, in the vehicle including the lower frame supporting a propelling unit for the vehicle and the upper frame detachably attached to the lower frame, by using a single force sensor, not only the force acting on a load support portion of the upper frame can be detected in an accurate manner, but also the force acting on the load support portion when the user is transporting the vehicle can be detected. |
| US08381858B2 |
Handlebar folding mechanism and foldable motorized vehicle having same
A handlebar folding mechanism for a foldable motorized vehicle comprising: (a) a mounting base, (b) a first connecting member and a second connecting member, each having a connection portion and a locking portion, (c) a first locking lever and a second locking lever, (d) a steering axial rod and (e) a first steering handlebar and a second steering handlebar, each of the steering handlebar having an inside end and outside end, wherein the connection portions of the connecting members are connected to the inside end of the first steering handlebar, the locking portions of the connecting members are pivoted on the mounting base, the locking levers are retractably mounted in the mounting base to control the rotation of the connecting members. |
| US08381857B1 |
Snowmobile
The present invention generally relates to snowmobiles. More particularly, the present invention relates to skis for a snowmobile. |
| US08381855B2 |
All terrain vehicle
In an all terrain vehicle, a radiator is disposed forward of a front panel in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The radiator is also disposed in a transverse center of the vehicle. A fan is configured to blow air from the front to an area behind the radiator. An engine unit is disposed rearward of the front panel. A cargo bed is disposed rearward of a seat. An exhaust device is disposed under the cargo bed. The exhaust device is disposed in the transverse center of the vehicle. A communication path is positioned in the transverse center of the vehicle. The communication path connects a space positioned behind the radiator and a space that the exhaust device is disposed. The communication path at least partially overlaps with the fan in a front view of the vehicle. |
| US08381844B2 |
Earth-boring tools and components thereof and related methods
Earth-boring drill bits include a bit body, an element having an attachment feature bonded to the bit body, and a shank assembly. Methods for assembling an earth-boring rotary drill bit include bonding a threaded element to the bit body of a drill bit and engaging the shank assembly to the threaded element. A nozzle assembly for an earth-boring rotary drill bit may include a cylindrical sleeve having a threaded surface and a threaded nozzle disposed at least partially in the cylindrical sleeve and engaged therewith. Methods of forming an earth-boring drill bit include providing a nozzle assembly including a tubular sleeve and nozzle at least partially within a nozzle port of a bit body. |
| US08381842B2 |
Apparatus for rotary mining
In various embodiments, a mining device can include a first housing portion and a second housing portion where relative movement between the first and second housing portions can extend and/or retract a cutting member with respect to the mining device. The mining device can further include a cable which can be mounted to the second housing portion where the cutting member is mounted to the cable and can be radially extended with respect to the first and second housing portions when the second housing portion is moved relative to the first housing portion along an axis. As the cutting member is extended, it can contact the sidewalls of a subterranean shaft to loosen material therefrom. |
| US08381839B2 |
Apparatus for directional drilling
A bottom-hole assembly for directional drilling incorporates a torque generator with a drive shaft connected to a drill string. The torque generator generates a torque that counters a reactive torque when a drill bit of the bottom-hole assembly is driven. When the drill string is rotated at a static drive speed, a drill tool face of the bottom-hole assembly is stabilized to drill a nonlinear bore segment. When the drill string is rotated at a rotational speed other than the static drive speed the bottom-hole assembly is rotated to drill a linear bore segment. |
| US08381838B2 |
System and apparatus for directing the drilling of a well
A system for directing the drilling of a well at a drill-site includes an instructing unit, an instructed unit, and a central unit. The instructed unit receives drilling instruction from an instructing driller, sends drilling instructions to the central unit, and presents to the instructing driller drilling instructions and instruction confirmations received from the central unit. The instructed unit receives instruction confirmations from an instructed driller, sends instruction confirmations to the central unit, and presents to the instructed driller drilling instructions received from the central unit. The central unit stores and forwards drilling instructions and instruction confirmations to the instructing unit and instructed unit, and generates and stores slide sheet information from the drilling instructions. |
| US08381837B2 |
Downhole tool deactivation and re-activation
A downhole tool including a tubular body having an upper connection and a lower connection and an axial borehole therethrough, wherein the upper and lower connections are configured to connect to a drilling assembly, at least one expandable component coupled to the tubular body and configured to selectively extend radially therefrom, and an actuation assembly configured to selectively actuate, deactuate, and reactuate the at least one component. A method of selectively actuating a downhole tool, wherein the downhole tool comprises a tubular body with an axial borehole therethrough and at least one component, the method including circulating a drilling fluid in the axial borehole of the downhole tool, actuating the at least one component, deactuating the at least one component, and reactuating the at least one component. An actuation assembly including a mandrel having an actuation chamber port, at least one drop device, a piston disposed within the mandrel and configured to move to open the actuation chamber port, at least one dart, a sleeve disposed within the mandrel and configured to move to close the actuation chamber port; and at least one biasing member configured to exert a force on the sleeve in an upstream direction. |
| US08381833B2 |
Counterbalance for eccentric shafts
A power tool includes a housing, a motor having a motor output shaft and located within the housing, the motor being configured to rotate the motor output shaft about a first axis, a drive component having (i) a body attached to the motor output shaft, and (ii) an output drive pin attached to the body, the output drive pin defining a second axis which is offset from the first axis, the body being caused to rotate about the first axis in response to rotation of the motor output shaft about the first axis, and the output drive pin being caused to be eccentrically driven in response to rotation of the body about the first axis, and further the body having a hub and a counterbalance arrangement attached to the hub, the counterbalance arrangement being positioned and configured to offset forces generated by the output drive pin when eccentrically driven, a linkage configured to oscillate in response to the output drive pin being eccentrically driven, and a tool mount configured to oscillate in response to oscillation of the linkage. |
| US08381827B2 |
Spring mounted blade assembly and tillage implement therewith
Tillage blade assemblies comprising a coil spring with a horizontal spring axis to permit upward deflection of a concave tillage blade in response to impact with obstacles with a mounting assembly that provides for mounting the tillage blades in a particular orientation relative to the ground and the direction of travel of the implement. Forces acting on the tillage assembly due to movement of the blade through the soil are balanced such that there is little or no distortion of the coil spring relative to its spring axis. This prevents an off-axis load from acting on the spring when the assembly is in use and allows the blade to track through the soil at a desired angle. Impact with obstacles, such as rocks, is absorbed by deflection of the coil spring, thereby mitigating damage to the assembly. Tillage implements comprising the blade assemblies are able to operate at higher speeds than can usually be obtained for tillage implements, due to the absorption of impact energy by the spring. |
| US08381823B2 |
Downhole tubular connector
A downhole tubular connector comprising a first body portion and a seal provided on the first body portion, the seal being adapted to selectively provide a seal with a downhole tubular, the downhole tubular connector further comprises a seal protector, wherein one of the seal protector and seal is movable with respect to the other of the seal protector and seal, the seal protector or seal being movable from a first position, in which at least a portion of the seal is protected by a first end of the seal protector, to a second position, in which the portion of the seal is exposed. The seal protector may be disposed so as to be movable from the first position to the second position by contact of the sleeve with the downhole tubular as the downhole tubular connector is brought into engagement with the downhole tubular. |
| US08381820B2 |
In-well rigless ESP
An in-well ESP string that can be installed or retrieved with a wireline instead of a rig. The ESP is combined with a motor and a hydraulic valve to pump formation fluid from a well to the surface. A wet connector is used to facilitate electrical and hydraulic connections. The ESP system is disposed within a tubing string located within the casing of a well. The hydraulic valve controls the flow of formation fluid to the ESP, opening to allow formation fluid to flow to the ESP, and closing to shut off production. When the valve is closed, the ESP may be cleaned with brine introduced via a flow port in the valve. This cleaning operation allows the ESP string to be to retrieved in an environmentally friendly manner. In addition, the wireline installation and retrieval is significantly less costly and less complicated than currently possible with a rig. |
| US08381818B2 |
Apparatus for, and method of, landing items at a well location
An apparatus for, and method of, lowering items from a drilling rig to a well located below it through the use of a landing string comprised of drill pipe having an enlarged diameter section with a shoulder, in combination with upper and lower holders having wedge members with shoulders that engage and support the drill pipe at the shoulder of the enlarged diameter section, the shoulder of the drill pipe and the shoulders of the wedge members being rotatable with respect to each other. |
| US08381808B2 |
Cement head
A cement head, comprising a first module comprising a first module outer profile, a second module comprising a second module outer profile, a bridge comprising a bridge profile engaged with each of the first module outer profile and the second module outer profile. A wellbore servicing apparatus, comprising a first module coaxial with a central axis, the first module comprising a first module outer surface, and a plurality of first module protrusions extending radially outward from the first module outer surface, a second module coaxial with the central axis, the second module comprising a second module outer surface, and a plurality of second module protrusions extending radially outward from the second module outer surface, a bridge having an outer bridge surface and an inner bridge surface, the bridge inner surface substantially complementing each of the first module outer surface, including the plurality of first module projections, and the second module outer surface, including the plurality of second module projections, when the first module is substantially adjacent the second module and a bridge outer surface, and a retainer coaxial with the central axis and configured to substantially radially retain the bridge toward the central axis with respect to each of the first module outer surface and the second module outer surface. |
| US08381807B2 |
Hydraulically-actuated propellant stimulation downhole tool
A hydraulically-actuated propellant stimulation downhole tool for hydrocarbon wells. According to one embodiment of the invention, the tool comprises a first section having an internal sidewall defining at least a portion of a flowpath, and a ported outer sidewall. A propellant volume having at least a portion within said first section. An annular portion has at least one pressure chamber having an end positioned adjacent to the propellant volume and an inlet providing a communication path to said flowpath. A detonator assembly is located within each pressure chamber proximal to the propellant volume such that detonation of the assembly causes detonation of the propellant volume. A firing pin is propelled toward the detonation assembly by providing communication between the pressure chamber and the flow path, causing a pressure differential between the pressure isolated ends of the firing pin. |
| US08381804B2 |
Twist vane counter-parallel flow heat exchanger apparatus and method
A heat exchanger and method that includes the use of at least one manifold having a plurality of vanes for circulating a fluid requiring cooling. The vanes define a pair of adjacent flow channels that each has a changing cross sectional shape that varies the aspect ratio of the adjacent flow channels defined by each vane. Each vane also has a twisting or spiral shape that serves to change the orientation of each of its adjacent flow channels to even more effectively enable transfer of heat from a first fluid flowing within one of the flow channels to a second fluid flowing in the other adjacent flow channel. In various embodiments both counter-direction flow and same-direction flows are employed in the manifold. |
| US08381797B2 |
Method for manufacturing clad material and equipment for manufacturing the same
Skin material of a clad material is composed of one or more layers, each layer of the skin materials is made of a metal different from the core material in their component compositions, and at least one layer of the skin material has a cast microstructure, when the skin material is superposed on either of one or both faces of the core material. |
| US08381788B2 |
Device and method for manufacturing sheet with cords
To provide a plurality of conveyor belts which are disposed, with a space kept mutually in the width direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction thereof, and capable of running along the longitudinal direction thereof in such a state that the sheet pieces with cords are placed thereon, and a lift mechanism installed between the plurality of conveyor belts to support the sheet pieces with cords on the upstream side or those on the downstream side in the longitudinal direction among the sheet pieces with cords placed on the conveyor belts while in contact with these sheet pieces from the lower side, thereby allowing them to make a relative upward movement from the sheet placing surfaces of the conveyor belts. |
| US08381784B2 |
Air maintenance pumping assembly and tire
A groove is positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall and deforms segment by segment within the rolling tire footprint. An air tube positioned within the sidewall groove is in contacting engagement with groove sidewalls and resiliently squeezes and collapses segment by segment as the groove constricts segment by segment within the rolling tire footprint. A series of adjacent projecting ridges extend from a groove sidewall segment into the groove air passageway, the projecting ridges operatively positioned to vary the applied pressure on the air tube increase the air pressure within the air tube passageway as the air tube rolls segment by segment with the tire through tire footprint. The series of projecting ridges are constructed having a variable amplitude and/or spacing frequency in a direction of air flow within the air passageway to increase the pressure applied to the air tube and air pressure of the air flowing through the tube passageway. |
| US08381783B2 |
Pneumatic tire
The object of the present invention is to provide a pneumatic tire which reduces the partial wear while maintaining the durability in the shoulder land portion. In order to achieve the above object, the thin groove extending in the circumferential direction of the tire on the shoulder land portion is arranged so as to be perpendicular to or inclined outward to the groove bottom from the tread surface as viewed in the cross-section of the meridian direction of the tire, and the buttress groove is arranged to position at the inner side than the groove bottom of the thin groove with respect to a normal line of the tread surface as viewed in the radial direction of the tire, at the same time, at the outer side than the inner surface of the tire as viewed in the radial direction of the tire. |
| US08381780B2 |
Lift and support assemblies and methods for collapsible bag containers of vessels and bioreactors
Disclosed are a lift assembly and methods that may be used to raise a component of a system, a component such as a collapsible bag to be used as a reactor for performing chemical or biological reactions, and/or to position the collapsible bag for use. Use of the lift assembly may allow for the automated assembly of the systems described herein. In some cases, trauma to the system components is minimized. |
| US08381779B1 |
System for wireless refueling of an aircraft
A system for wirelessly refueling an aircraft includes an aircraft having a fuel tank, a control valve, a fuel sensor outputting a fuel signal indicative of the amount of fuel in the at least one fuel tank, and a controller controlling the control valve in response to the fuel signal, a refueling apparatus having a fuel supply, a pump and a controller in which is stored a fuel profile including fuel data indicative of the amount of fuel to be supplied to the at least one fuel tank, and wireless communication systems operably coupled to the controllers within the aircraft and refueling apparatus to control the operation of the control valve and the pump to fill the at least one fuel tank in accordance with the fuel profile and in response to the fuel signal. |
| US08381778B2 |
Method and apparatus to charge aerosol containers with fluid, and method to clean a charging apparatus
Method for charging an aerosol container with fluid, comprising:—providing an aerosol container (1) having a reservoir (2) comprising a product, for example a foodproduct, and having product discharge means (1a);—gradually supplying fluid to the reservoir of the container (1) via the discharge means (1a) thereof; and—applying a mixing movement to the container (1), preferably during the supplying of the fluid, to mix the fluid and product at least partly with each other, wherein the mixing movement is such that at least a first virtual point (P1, P2) of a virtual center line (Z) of the container reservoir (2) follows an endless path around a respective virtual axis. Embodiments of the invention also provide a cleaning method and a dummy container. |
| US08381777B2 |
Filling valve having a liquid chamber, a gas chamber and a medium chamber, and filling machine comprising the same
A filling valve includes a hollow housing including a liquid chamber, a gas chamber, and a sliding valve assembly. The sliding valve assembly includes a hollow valve rod with an opening in the gas chamber at an upper end of the valve rod, the valve rod sliding in the housing between an open position where valve rod opens an aperture in the housing allowing liquid to flow from the liquid chamber through the aperture, and a closed position where the valve rod closes the aperture, and a sliding piston disposed in the housing between an open position where a lower end of the piston is spaced from the upper end of the valve rod allowing gas to pass from the gas chamber to the opening in the valve and a closed position where the lower end of the piston contacts the upper end of the valve rod. |
| US08381776B2 |
Piercing member protection device
The invention concerns a piercing member protection device, a kit of a piercing member protection device, a first and second fluid container and a method a method for transferring a fluid between a first and a second container using a piercing member protection device. The piercing member protection device comprises a protection chamber to protect at least the tip of a piercing member. The piercing member protection device further comprises a first and a second member arranged to each other. The first member is further arranged to slide with respect to the second member between a secured position, in which at least the tip of the piercing member is enclosed within the protection chamber so as to prevent the tip of the piercing member from exposure and an unsecured position, in which the tip of the piercing member is arranged outside the protection chamber wherein the first member is arranged to turn with respect to the second member between a locked position and an unlocked position so that when the first member is in the locked position the first member is substantially unable to slide along the longitudinal axis A and when the first member is in the unlocked position the first member is enabled to slide along the longitudinal axis A. |
| US08381774B2 |
Methods for loading a drug eluting medical device
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for loading a therapeutic substance or drug within a lumenal space of a hollow wire having a plurality of side openings along a length thereof that forms a hollow drug-eluting stent with a plurality of side drug delivery openings. Loading a drug within the lumenal space of the hollow stent includes a drug filling step, in which the drug is mixed with a solvent or dispersion medium. The lumenal space may be filled with the drug solution or suspension in a reverse fill process and/or a forward fill process. After the drug filling step, a solvent or dispersion medium extracting step is performed to extract the solvent or dispersion medium from within the lumenal space such that only the drug remains within the hollow stent. A stent cleaning step may be performed to an exterior surface of the hollow stent. |
| US08381773B2 |
Thread feeding method, warp thread feeding method, thread feeder and weaving method
Disclosed is a thread feeding method (the method) for feeding threads to a weaver. The method includes a step of feeding a multiplicity of strands of yarns with intervals to each line of the thread feed lines, while some strands of the multiplicity of strands of yarns are being separated from the other strands according to color or shade to be expressed at spots where they are either woven or knitted and are then fed to the weaver such that the colors or shades of the separated strands are combined to express target colors or shades at the spots where the strands are woven or knitted. The method of the present invention allows changing of colors or black and white shades of the threads being fed to the weaver. The method also allows the strands to be combined with other strands of yarns with different colors to express tens or hundreds of colors on a fabric. |
| US08381770B2 |
Blowoff tank
A blowoff tank (B) for receiving blowdown, blowoff, and drain water from an HRSG (C) or other type of boiler, so as to lower the temperature of that water enough to enable it to be discharged into a sewer system, includes a generally cylindrical vessel (50) and inlet pipes (60) through which the blowdown, blowoff, and drain water is introduced into the vessel. Each pipe has a radial segment (62) that passes through the sidewall (52) of the vessel, a generally vertical segment (64) that extends upwardly within the vessel, and a tangential segment (68) that opens into the vessel. The radial segment contains a small drain aperture (74). The tank also has a cooling line (90) through which cooling water is introduced into the vessel to lower the temperature of the blowdown, blowoff, and drain water in the vessel and a drain line (86) that drains the mixture of cooling water and blowdown, blowoff, and drain water from the vessel, but never exceeds the elevation of the apertures in the inlet pipes. Thus, once blowdown, blowoff, and draining are completed, water will drain from the inlet pipes and from lines connected to them, all into vessel and thereby reduce a source of corrosion and a cause of water hammer in the lines. |
| US08381769B2 |
Flow controller
A flow controller includes a handle, first and second valves, and first and second levers. The handle includes an inlet, an outlet, a first chamber in communication with the inlet and outlet and a second chamber in communication with the outlet. A first end of the first valve is movable in the first chamber between a shutting position for shutting the inlet and an opening position for opening the inlet. A second end of the first valve is outside the first chamber. The first lever is operable to move the first valve to the opening position. The second valve is rotationally located in the second chamber for controlling the flow rate of water going through the outlet. The second lever is operable to rotate the second valve. |
| US08381765B2 |
Valve
The present invention relates to a valve. The valve includes a valve element having a metering opening, a valve gate which is movable in translation for the opening and closing of the metering opening, an actuating actuator configured for the execution of a tilting movement, and a lever arm which is coupled to the actuating actuator and which converts the tilting movement of the actuating actuator for the opening and closing of the metering opening into a translatory stroke movement of the valve gate. |
| US08381763B2 |
Gas filling and dispensing device, vessel with such device, and operational circuit
The invention relates to a gas filling and dispensing device that comprises a body to be positioned in the opening of a pressurized gas storage tank, a gas-tapping circuit extending between a first upstream end to be connected to the inside of the tank and a second downstream end to be connected to a gas user, wherein the tapping circuit includes a first insulation valve, the device further including a safety valve subjected to the tank pressure for blocking or selectively opening a passage for the gas from the tank towards a discharge area based on the temperature and/or pressure of the gas in the tank relative to at least one predetermined threshold, characterized in that the discharge area of the safety valve is located upstream from the first insulation valve. |
| US08381762B2 |
Flow regulator
The invention relates to the metering of fluids at low flow rates. More particularly, the invention provides a flow regulator for flows as low as about ½ ml per hour, provided with locking means for any set value within its range. The flow regulator comprises: an inner non-revolving core element, an outer housing, having a hollow base section and being revolvably supported co-axially with the core element, first and second chambers disposed between the core element and the outer housing, each chamber having an inlet and an outlet, the outlet of the first chamber and the inlet of the second chamber being connected by a flow restriction path, a diaphragm separating the two chambers and sealing an inlet to a discharge tube when pressure in the first chamber is higher than pressure in the second chamber, and a circular spring placed in the secondary chamber below the diaphragm and around the discharge tube. The major improvement being the addition of a graduated flow rate locking ring housing a disk-like body disposed between the outlet of the discharge tube and the base portion of the outer housing. |
| US08381761B2 |
Pressure management control valve assembly
An adjustable hydraulically operated pressure management control pilot assembly has first and second diaphragm assemblies which define two fluid pressure chambers. Varying the pressure between these two fluid chambers modulates the control pilot assembly between adjusted low and high set points, which can be used to control high and low pressures downstream of a pressure reducing valve of a water supply system. |
| US08381760B2 |
Stepper motor valve and method of control
A stepper-motor gas valve control is disclosed that includes a main diaphragm in a chamber that controllably displaces a valve relative to an opening in response to changes in pressure, to adjust fuel flow through the valve. A servo-regulator diaphragm is provided to regulate flow to the main diaphragm, to thereby control the rate of fuel flow. A stepper motor is configured to move in a stepwise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm, to control fluid flow to the main diaphragm. A controller mounted on the stepper-motor regulated gas valve control receives and converts an input control signal from a heating system to a reference value between 0 and 5 volts, and selects a corresponding motor step value. The control responsively moves the stepper-motor in a step wise manner to displace the servo-regulator diaphragm and thereby regulates the rate of fuel flow through the valve. |
| US08381755B2 |
Pressure type flow rate control reference and corrosion resistant pressure type flow rate controller used for the same
A pressure type flow rate control reference allows the performance of flow rate calibrations of a flow rate controller on all types of gases, including corrosive gases, at low costs, and also has excellent flow rate control accuracy. The pressure type flow rate control reference includes a pressure controller for adjusting the pressure of a calibration gas from a calibration gas supply source, a first volume provided on the downstream side of a pressure controller, a first connection mouth of an uncalibrated flow rate controller provided on the downstream side of the first volume, a reference pressure type flow rate controller connected to a second connection mouth on the downstream side of the uncalibrated flow rate controller, a second volume provided on the downstream side of a reference pressure type flow rate controller, and an evacuation device provided on the downstream side of the second volume. |
| US08381753B2 |
Method for making a safety valve of a boiler of a device for making a hot beverage, particularly coffee, and safety valve
A safety valve of a boiler of a device for making hot beverages, particularly coffee, comprises an intermediate valve body, a plug and resilient means inserted into the seat of the intermediate valve body. The intermediate valve body comprises a peripheral wall designed to be folded over to define a reaction portion of the resilient means and positively press the plug, obtaining a final valve body. The peripheral wall partly closes off a first opening of the intermediate valve body and the plug partly projects from the final valve body. |
| US08381747B2 |
Automated cleaning system for an aircraft fuselage interior
The disclosure provides in one embodiment an automated cleaning system for an aircraft fuselage interior. The system comprises a movable assembly designed to fit within an aircraft fuselage interior to be cleaned. The movable assembly comprises a removable track assembly, an automated transport mechanism mounted on the removable track assembly, a manifold and frame assembly mounted on the automated transport mechanism, and a fluid dispensing assembly coupled to the manifold and frame assembly for dispensing one or more fluids onto an aircraft fuselage interior surface to be cleaned. The system further comprises a fluid management system coupled to the movable assembly for supplying the one or more fluids to the fluid dispensing assembly. The system further comprises a control system that communicates with and controls the movable assembly and the fluid management system. |
| US08381746B2 |
Shopping cart auto washing system
The shopping cart washing machine includes a cart transporting means (200) which continuously transports a cart in a forward direction, a high pressure washing water spraying means (300) which washes the cart by spraying high pressure washing water to a surface of the cart, a handle washing means (400) which washes a handle (4) of the cart by brushing upper and lower surfaces of the handle (4) of the cart, a cart outside surface washing unit (500) which washes the outside surface of a container part (1) of the cart by brushing the sides of the container part (1), a cart inside space washing means (600) which is disposed inside the container part (1) and removes dirt from the container part (1) by vertical vibrations, a rinsing means (700) which removes dirt remaining on the surface of the washed cart by spraying high pressure washing water again, and a drying means (800) which removes water droplets remaining on the surface of the washed cart using hot air. |
| US08381745B2 |
Water-conducting appliance having a cleaning agent feeding device
A water-conducting domestic appliance including a line system, a detergent feed facility that supplies at least one detergent into the line system, wherein the detergent feed facility includes at least one reservoir configured to be filled with detergent, and a refill fitting having a connection to the at least one reservoir, the refill fitting being arranged on a door of the water-conducting domestic appliance. |
| US08381744B2 |
Water-conducting domestic appliance comprising a detergent dosing system and cartridge therefor
A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, the water-conducting domestic appliance including a washing compartment for receiving items therein that are to be subjected to a handling process by the water-conducting domestic appliance; and a detergent dosing system, the detergent dosing system having a detergent dispenser with a receiving compartment, the receiving compartment for receiving at least one cartridge that is configured to hold at least one detergent. The detergent dosing system is formed from a plurality of housing walls and at least one portion of at least one housing wall of the detergent dosing system has thermal insulation. |
| US08381743B1 |
Combined toothpaste container cap dental floss dispenser
The combined toothpaste container cap and dental floss dispenser of the present disclosure and related inventions includes a cap structure configured to fit with a toothpaste dispenser in the form of a tube, a floss container and an access panel. The floss container is configured to fit within the cap body and has a floss containment cavity in which a supply of dental floss is stored. A floss lead opening is located on the floss container through which the dental floss is accessed. An access panel is attached to the floss container which covers the floss lead opening. |
| US08381738B2 |
Composite materials and their use in smoking articles
Smoking articles, filters, and methods for selectively removing selected components from tobacco smoke are disclosed. The smoking articles and filters include composites composed of a porous alumina and/or aluminosilicate matrix containing particles of activated carbon and zeolite molecular sieve adsorbents distributed throughout the matrix which can selectively remove selected components of tobacco smoke. The composites may be made by admixing the adsorbent mixture and a binder such as aluminum hydroxide or montmorillonite clay, adding an aqueous mineral acid to gel the mixture and drying and firing the gel paste. The proportions and adsorption capacities of the components can be selected to tailor the adsorption characteristics of the composites to selectively remove targeted constituents such as acrolein and 1,3-butadiene in tobacco smoke. Methods for making filters and smoking articles using the composites, as well as methods for smoking products comprising the composites, are also provided. |
| US08381736B2 |
Method of preparing a rod for use in the preparation of a smoking article
A method of preparing a rod for use in the preparation of a smoking article is described. The rod has a first end and a second end. The rod has located therein a solid support. The solid support extends in a linear fashion from the first end of said rod to the second end of said rod. At least a portion of said solid support is coated and/or impregnated with an additive. The rod is prepared using rod forming means, wherein said rod forming means comprises a channel ending in an open exit, wherein material may pass through at least part of the channel and leave via the open exit in the form of a rod. |
| US08381734B2 |
Patient stabilizing strap
A patient stabilizing strap includes a base strap, which is removably attachable to a planar surface. At least one receiving portion is secured to the planar surface by the base strap. At least one elongate stabilizing portion has longitudinally spaced first and second stabilizing portion ends separated by a stabilizing portion body. Each first stabilizing portion end is removably attachable to a receiving portion to secure the stabilizing portion to the planar surface. Each second stabilizing portion end is removably attachable to an other second stabilizing portion end to encircle at least a portion of a patient body in cooperation with the planar surface. |
| US08381722B2 |
Distinguishing between closed and open airway apneas and treating patients accordingly
Methods and apparatus for determining the occurrence of an apnea, patency and/or partial obstruction of the airway are disclosed. Respiratory air flow from a patient is measured to give an air flow signal. The determination of an apnea is performed by calculating the variance of the air flow signal over a moving time window and comparing the variance with a threshold value. One determination of partial obstruction of the airway is performed by detecting the inspiratory part of the air flow signal, scaling it to unity duration and area and calculating an index value of the amplitude of the scaled signal over a mid-portion. Alternatively, the index value is a measure of the flatness of the air flow signal over the mid-portion. One determination of patency of the airway is performed by applying an oscillatory pressure waveform of known frequency to a patient's airway, calculating the magnitude of the component of said air flow signal at the known frequency induced by the oscillatory pressure waveform and comparing the calculated magnitude with a threshold value. Alternatively, the air flow signal is analysed to detect the presence of a component due to cardiogenic activity. |
| US08381721B2 |
Dry powder inhalers with dual piercing members and related devices and methods
A dry powder inhaler includes a dose container assembly having a dose container disk with opposing upper and lower surfaces, a first row of circumferentially spaced apart dose containers at a first radius and a second row of circumferentially spaced apart dose containers at a second radius. The dose containers have dry powder therein and are sealed via a first flexible sealant over apertures in the upper surface and a second flexible sealant over apertures in the lower surface. A piercing mechanism includes two reciprocating piercers that serially alternate between the two rows of dose containers in the dose container disk. A rotatable ramp disk includes first and second sets of circumferentially spaced-apart ramp elements in staggered, concentric relationship that are configured to move the first and second piercing members between retracted and extended positions. |
| US08381714B2 |
Burner for cooking appliances
A gas burner for a cooking appliance having a base portion and a side wall extending from the base portion. A cap is disposed on the side wall. The cap includes a substantially conical interior surface facing the base portion. The substantially conical interior surface is configured to substantially eliminate creation of turbulent flow eddies in a gaseous fuel mixture passing through the gas burner. |
| US08381712B1 |
Simultaneous multiple cooking mode barbecue grill
A simultaneous multiple cooking mode barbecue grill that includes a first cooking mode unit configured to prepare food in a first cooking mode, a second cooking mode unit configured to prepare food in a second cooking mode, and a supporting structure that supports the first cooking mode unit and the second cooking mode unit so that the first and second cooking mode units can be moved securely and operated simultaneously to prepare food using multiple cooking modes. |
| US08381710B2 |
Paintball ejecting apparatuses and methods therefor
Paintball ejecting apparatus having a body, a breech, and a barrel for ejecting paintballs through and out of the barrel is disclosed. There are included a paintball reservoir disposed in an other-than-top-of-body position and a paintball conduit coupling the paintball reservoir to the breech for facilitating transport of paintballs from the paintball reservoir to the breech. There is also included a paintball transport arrangement having an actuator to move paintballs toward the breech, the paintball transport arrangement automatically moves at least a first paintball from the paintball conduit into the breech if the breech is empty and open for receiving the at least first paintball, the paintball transport arrangement automatically ceasing moving another paintball into the breech after the at least first paintball is disposed in the breech. |
| US08381705B2 |
Method for checking the operational capability of a fuel tank ventilation valve
A method for checking the operational capability of a fuel tank ventilation valve (7) of a fuel tank ventilation system of a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine (1) having an intake manifold pressure-based detection of filling levels is thereby characterized in that the fuel tank ventilation valve (7) is selectively activated to open or close and in correlation to this the operational capability of the fuel tank ventilation valve (7) is suggested from the thereby resulting intake manifold pressure (ps). |
| US08381703B2 |
Method for calibrating an accelerator pedal
A method for calibrating an accelerator pedal during a driving operation, in which the mechanical position of the accelerator pedal is converted by at least one potentiometer to an electrical signal value and read in by an electronic engine control unit. An idle limit for an idle position of the accelerator pedal and a full-load limit for a full-load position of the accelerator pedal are set as initial values. An idle signal value that is less than or equal to the idle limit is stored in a potentiometer-specific idle data memory for each potentiometer, a representative idle signal value is determined from the stored idle signal values, and this value is set as the determining idle position of the accelerator pedal specific to each potentiometer. A full-load signal value that is greater than or equal to the full-load limit is stored in a potentiometer-specific full-load data memory for each potentiometer, a representative full-load signal value is determined from the stored full-load signal values, and this value is set as the determining full-load position of the accelerator pedal specific to each potentiometer. |
| US08381702B2 |
Load adjusting device
A load adjustment device for an actuator that determines the power of an internal combustion engine, designed as a throttle valve and is disposed on an actuator shaft in a housing, the actuator shaft being pivotally drivable about the rotary axis of the actuator shaft between a minimal load setting defined by a minimal load stop and a full load setting defined by a full load stop by means of a reversibly drivable actuating drive via an actuating part rotationally fixed to said shaft. The actuator shaft is subject to a load in the minimum load direction by a restoring spring. The actuating part can be subjected to a load by a leg of a torsion spring disposed radially outside the pivoting range of the part, the leg of the torsion spring extending into the pivoting range of the actuating part. |
| US08381697B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine for reducing the amount of bubbles contained in the circulated oil without reducing the ground clearance of the engine. A crankcase is provided therein with an oil suction passage makes an oil pump and an end part of a bottom wall of an oil sump chamber communicate with each other, passes between the oil sump chamber and a hanger boss, and has a lowest part located below the bottom wall of the oil sump chamber. |
| US08381696B2 |
Cylinder
A cylinder realizing reduced reciprocation friction between a piston ring and a bore surface of the cylinder in a region where the piston ring slides. The cylinder in which a piston slides on a bore surface of the cylinder. A plurality of recesses is formed in a stroke center region in the bore surface of the cylinder. The stroke center region is a region between an under face position of a ring groove for a bottom piston ring at a top dead center of the piston and a top face position of a ring groove for a top piston ring at a bottom dead center of the piston. The total of areas of all of the recesses is in the range of 1% to 80% when an area of the stroke center region is 100%, and the recesses are not formed in a region other than the stroke center region of the bore surface of the cylinder. |
| US08381692B2 |
Internal combustion engine with exhaust-phase power extraction serving cylinder pair(s)
A heat engine employs an auxiliary cylinder to receiving exhaust gases from a main cylinder during its exhaust phase to extract mechanical energy from the heat in the exhaust gases. The auxiliary cylinder has an auxiliary piston that reciprocates with an asymmetric pattern in respect to the main crank a counter-rotating auxiliary cranks such that the downward stroke of the auxiliary piston and the upward stroke of the auxiliary piston correspond to crank angles above and below 180 degrees. In one favorable embodiment, fresh air can be drawn in and combined with the exhaust gases. |
| US08381690B2 |
Controlling cooling flow in a sootblower based on lance tube temperature
A cleaning system and method for cleaning heat transfer surfaces in a boiler using a temperature measuring system for measuring and monitoring wall temperature of an annular wall of the tube of a lance of one or more sootblowers. Controlling a flow of steam or other fluid through the tube during the cooling portions of the strokes based on wall temperature measurements from the temperature measuring system. Infrared or thermocouple temperature measuring systems may be used. The steam or other fluid may be flowed at a default flowrate that may be substantially zero until the temperature measuring system indicates the wall temperature of the annular wall begins to exceed a predetermined temperature limit which may be the softening point of the annular wall. Then the steam or other fluid is flowed at a rate greater than the default flowrate. |
| US08381689B2 |
Method for examining water heater safety
A method for examining water heater safety includes the steps of: setting a desired temperature and sensing a cold water temperature and a flow rate of water to calculate a theoretical gas consumption, and then supplying a combustor the theoretical gas consumption to heat water; sensing a hot water temperature, and calculating a temperature ratio by the desired temperature, the cold water temperature and the hot water temperature. Examining the temperature ratio may find that the water heater is abnormal or malfunctioning. An efficiency ratio may also be calculated by the theoretical gas consumption and the actual gas consumption. Examining the efficiency ratio may find that the water heater is abnormal or malfunctioning as well. |
| US08381687B2 |
Self scooping cat litter box
An automated cat litter box comprising self-scooping mechanisms on a scooping carriage assembly at one end of a litter pan. The scooping carriage contains therein a waste drawer having a removable tray covered in lining. The tray travels with the carriage to the opposing end of the litter so that a grate can flip backwards to shovel collected waste into the waste drawer. |
| US08381685B2 |
Pet fountain
A pet fountain having a housing of snap together construction formed of a base and cover. The base includes a basin in which an integrally formed filter-holding divider is disposed that separates the basin into a return sump and pumping chamber. The cover includes a water holding bowl, an inlet and a drain overlying the return sump that encloses a pump that provides fluid to the bowl via inlet when attached to the base. The cover includes a downwardly extending tube that fluidly registers with a discharge of the pump when attached to the base. In a preferred embodiment, the cover has upper and lower bowls connected by a spillway that conveys overflow from the upper bowl to the lower bowl where it is return via drain to the return sump. The cover can be configured to mate with the housing to enclose the entire basin, pump, and filter. |
| US08381682B2 |
Castle birdfeeder systems
The Castle Birdfeeder provides an efficient method for feeding wild birds and conserving bird seed. The device may comprise a birdfeeder shaped like a castle containing removable components. The base of the invention can be a rectangular and one-quarter inch deep to hold water, be used as a moat, in which birds can drink, clean and cool themselves. The castle may include perch doors on each side that fold up and down like a castle door. Birds can stand on these perch doors while poking their beaks through the round windows in the castle side to access seed contained in a seed holder made to fit within the dimensions of the castle. As birds eat, any excess seeds may fall from the seed holder to the seed catcher placed directly below. The design of this invention may also prevent squirrels and other animals from accessing and stealing bird food. |
| US08381680B2 |
Method and arrangement in milking system
A method and arrangement for monitoring the supply of cleaning liquid from a cleaning line to a milking system, where the milking system includes at least two milking stations and milk conduits, and the cleaning line includes supply conduits connectable to the milk conduits at the milking stations and arranged to apportion cleaning liquid to the milking stations, so that cleaning liquid flows through the milking stations. The method includes measuring a value of the flow of the cleaning liquid through the respective milking stations by a respective flow sensor and transferring the values of the measured flows to a control unit. The arrangement includes a first control unit and flow sensors and a respective flow sensor is adapted to measure a value of the flows of cleaning liquid through a respective milking station, and provide the values to the control unit. |
| US08381679B2 |
Method in a milking system for creating a required vacuum level and computer program products
The invention relates to a method in a milking system for creating a required vacuum level, the milking system comprising at least two variable speed vacuum pumps P1, P2. The method comprises the steps of: utilizing a first variable speed vacuum pump P1 for creating the required vacuum level within the milking system; monitoring the vacuum level requirement within the milking system, and when the vacuum level requirement of the milking system is such that the speed of the first variable speed vacuum pump P1 reaches a first speed threshold then: starting a second variable speed vacuum pump P2, and running the first and second variable speed vacuum pumps P1, P2 in parallel for creating the required vacuum level. The invention also relates to computer program products. |
| US08381676B2 |
Method and system for coating a medical device using optical drop volume verification
A method and apparatus for controlling coating material deposition on to a medical device. Images of material drops in flight are captured and an average single drop volume value is calculated by conversion of the captured drop images to a volume measurement. The average single drop volume value is used to calculate a total number of drops necessary to apply a desired amount of coating. Alternately, material is applied and the amount of material deposited is accumulated and adjustments are made to deposit only a desired amount of coating material. A drop volume is determined for either every drop or a sampling of drops as the drops are being applied. Adjustments to the coating process include changing drop size and changing a number of drops to be deposited. |
| US08381674B2 |
Automated fluid dispenser
An automated fluid dispenser for smoothly applying a viscous fluid onto a component is provided. The automated fluid dispenser can have a nozzle with a nozzle tip and a support. The nozzle can be pivotally attached to the support about a pivot axis. In addition, a tension member can be attached to the nozzle, the tension member applying an anti-pivoting force to the nozzle when it pivots about the pivot axis. |
| US08381664B2 |
Foldable table
A table (2) of a type which can be moved between storage and in use positions and which is free standing in both positions. The table typically includes at least two legs (12) connected to support arms (16) which are moveable between the two positions and which, when in the in use position engage with a frame member (34) on the underside of a table top via engagers (26, 28) having teeth which secure the leg support arms to the frame member and provide support for the table top (6). |
| US08381660B2 |
Track-guided vehicle wheel truck
A track-guided vehicle wheel truck prevents wear and deterioration of a guide wheel and a guide rail, and ensures running stability while simplifying the structure. In the track-guided vehicle wheel truck, a guide frame 8 to which a guide wheel 9 guided by a guide rail 1 is mounted, can turn relative to a steering axle 6 of a running wheel 5. A support shaft 21 is provided on an axle bracket 20 provided in the steering axle 6 so as to be movable in the vehicle front and rear direction by straddling the steering axle 6. A link lever 22 capable of interlocking the turning of the guide frame 8 and the steering of the running wheel 5 is provided along the vehicle front and rear direction. A vehicle end-side end part of the link lever 22 is rotatably mounted to a connecting rod 19 that enables the steering of the running wheel 5. An intermediate part of the link lever 22 is rotatably mounted to the guide frame 8. A long hole 22a extending in the vehicle front and rear direction is provided in a center-side end part of the link lever 22. The long hole 22a and the support shaft 10 are rotatably engaged with each other at a given position. |
| US08381659B2 |
Railway vehicle comprising pivoting bogies
A railway vehicle including a plurality of bogies is provided. Each bogie includes a chassis, two front wheels and two rear wheels. For each front wheel and each rear wheel, a guidance device is provided for guiding the wheel in rotation and a primary suspension device of the chassis is provided on the guidance device. At least the primary suspension devices associated with the front and rear wheels are arranged on the same first lateral side of the bogie. The primary suspension devices each include two longitudinal connecting rods, each connected by a first connection point to the chassis and by a second connection point to the corresponding guidance device and at least one resilient component inserted between the two connecting rods to define at least the vertical stiffness of the primary suspension device, the two connecting rods being offset longitudinally relative to one another. Each of the bogies also includes a pivot connection device for connecting the bogie to the railway vehicle. |
| US08381658B1 |
Hydrogen fuel cell hybrid locomotives and methods of operating the same
A method of operating a locomotive including a set of electrical traction motors, a fuel cell power module for generating electrical current for the traction motors, an air system for providing an air mass to the fuel cell power module, and a cooling system for cooling the fuel cell power module. When an amount of power is requested from the power module, a required current and a stoic set point for the power module are determined. From the required current, the stoic set point, and numerical factors characterizing the power module, an air mass flow set point is determined for producing the requested amount of power. A compressor set point including speed and torque set points of a compressor motor are determined for the air system to produce the air mass flow corresponding to the requested amount of power. |
| US08381657B1 |
Enhanced grenade
An enhanced grenade exhibiting improved insensitive munitions (IM) characteristics while providing improved lethality or non-lethality as desired. |
| US08381656B1 |
Mechanical cartridge and grenade venting
To hinder activation caused by unplanned stimuli, a munition may include first and second discrete, separable parts. The first and second parts may include interlocking components to prevent relative axial translation of the first and second parts. The first and second parts may be torsionally biased in opposite directions. A binder with a low melting temperature may fix the first and second parts together to prevent the torsional bias from rotating the first and second parts in the opposite directions. When the binder melts, the torsional bias may cause the first part to rotate with respect to the second part. Relative rotation of the first and second parts may allow relative axial translation of the first and second parts. |
| US08381652B2 |
Shaped charge liner comprised of reactive materials
A shaped charge liner is provided. The shaped charge liner comprises a first material denser than 10 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cc) and a reactive material. The first material is concentrated in a middle of the liner and decreased in at least one of an apex and a skirt of the liner, and the reactive material is concentrated in at least one of the apex and the skirt of the liner and decreased in the middle of the liner. |
| US08381651B1 |
Rotational variable pyrotechnic delay selector for munitions
A rotational variable pyrotechnic delay selector for munitions which permits the selection of various ignition delays. Advantageously, the variable delay selector is configurable for a variety of field conditions and targets and is adaptable to a number of munitions systems and pyrotechnic ignition mixtures and delays. |
| US08381650B2 |
Safety and arming unit for a fuse
A safety and arming unit for a fuse includes a firing chain having first and second firing devices defining an intermediate space therebetween and a barrier blocking the intermediate space in a safe position. The firing chain is brought into an armed position by a releasing movement vacating the intermediate space. First and second mutually independent securing devices lock the barrier in the safe position and execute an unlocking action based on two mutually independent physical arming parameters. A compact and very reliable safety and arming unit can be achieved in this way. |
| US08381648B2 |
Hinge strips for printer paper
The present invention provides a page for binding in an album. The page includes a blank, printer paper sheet and a hinge strip mounted along an edge of the printer paper sheet, the hinge strip including a flexible line for allowing the hinge strip to bend along the flexible line and a portion for binding to an album. The paper sheet and the hinge strip are adapted to go through a printer together to provide a ready-to-bind printed page. |
| US08381647B2 |
Anti-marking coverings for printing presses
In a printing press and attached onto the transfer cylinders, an anti-marking system that uniformly supports the transport and the release of the wet printed sheet from one station to the next. The anti-marking sheet consists of a two plus layer system, the outer layer being a textured surface and the inner layer being a microcellular material that is both compressible and resilient. The outer textured layer may be treated with either conductive/anti-static layers or an ink repellent layer or both. The two plus layer system is easily attached to both transfer cylinders and tracking/skeleton wheels using any combination of fixtures from Velcro™, magnetic, metallic, and pressure sensitive double sided tape to elastic loops. |
| US08381643B2 |
Pitter apparatus with rotary operated drive system
A pitting knife assembly including a pitting knife mount and a pulley drive assembly coupled and configured to move the knife mount around a circular or substantially circular path, and a fruit pitting apparatus including such an assembly. During operation of the pitting knife assembly with at least one pitting knife mounted to the knife mount and a fruit conveying assembly positioned to convey fruit to the pitting knife assembly, the pitting knife can produce pitted fruit by moving into engagement with fruit conveyed by the conveying assembly (to pit the fruit) as the knife mount moves through a first portion of the path, and the pitting knife can then move out of engagement with (and away from) the pitted fruit as the knife mount moves through a second portion of the path. |
| US08381641B2 |
Drop-in passive thermal insert for food service counters
Passive temperature control is provided to vessels too tall to be stored in a shallow, temperature-controlled tray or basin by a vertically oriented thermally-conductive tube. In one embodiment, an insulative collar covers the tray and insulates portions of the tube that extend above the top of the tray. Optional heat sinking fins and air convection holes increase heat transfer between the tube and the tray. |
| US08381640B1 |
Spaetzle preparation apparatus
A pan for making spaetzle that has a shape, a rim, a depth, a collection of holes, a thickness and two handles that allows one to make spaetzle in a manner that is safer and easier than with currently known devices. The shape is a shallow circular shape with an overall curvature of a slice of a sphere. The rim has an open diameter of at least twenty centimeters and no more than twenty eight centimeters. The depth of the pan is from two to eight centimeters. A plurality of holes is located within a central pan portion that has a diameter of no more than 15.3 centimeters, the holes having a diameter of between six and thirteen millimeters. The thickness of the central pan region is not more than three millimeters and handles affixed to the rim each extend outward to a distance less than about five centimeters. |
| US08381636B2 |
Smoking grill pan
The present invention relates to a grill pan, which comprises a main body, an electrothermal tube disposed on the lower surface of the main body; wherein the electrothermal tube comprises an normal-temperature area for grilling food and an high-temperature area for burning smoking materials to generate smokes; the normal-temperature area and the high-temperature area are connected integrative, and the two ends of the electrothermal tube have an adapter connected to exterior power supply; there is a smoking box for containing smoking materials disposed on the main body corresponding with the high-temperature area. The present invention achieves the functions of roasting and smoking by only one heating source. That can reduce the cost of production and is convenient for use. |
| US08381635B2 |
Portable espresso coffee apparatus
A brewing device comprising a brewing system; a handle assembly coupled to the brewing system and containing a source of compressed fluid; and a valve system, coupled to the handle, to selectively place the source of compressed fluid in fluid communication with the brewing system. |
| US08381632B1 |
Lightweight armor system
The disclosure provides a shock absorbing layer comprised of one or more shock absorbing cells, where a shock absorbing cell is comprised of a cell interior volume containing a plurality of hydrogel particles and a free volume, and where the cell interior volume is surrounded by a containing layer. The containing layer has a permeability such that the hydrogel particles when swollen remain at least partially within the cell interior volume when subjected to a design shock pressure wave, allowing for force relaxation through hydrogel compression response. Additionally, the permeability allows for the flow of exuded free water, further dissipating wave energy. In an embodiment, a plurality of shock absorbing cells is combined with a penetration resistant material to mitigate the transmitted shock wave generated by an elastic precursor wave in the penetration resistant material. |
| US08381623B2 |
Material trimmer with illuminated cut line indicator
A material cutting system for trimming sheet material having a base, a blade engageable with the sheet material along a cut line and a material guide including an illuminated surface indicative of the location of the cut line. In one set of embodiments, an illuminating assembly produces light that is internally transmitted through a light guide portion of the material guide to the illuminated surface. The illuminated surface provides for ready and correct orientation of the sheet material to the desired position for cutting by the material trimmer. |
| US08381614B1 |
Handle apparatus
An apparatus includes a linkage having an axis of rotation, a handle member being linked to the linkage, a stop member connected to the handle member, and a guide member defining an engagement region aligned with the stop member such that a portion of the stop member engages the engagement region. |
| US08381612B2 |
Dial device
A dial device includes a body, a first dial knob supported to the body so as to rotate around a predetermined axis, a second dial knob supported to the body so as to rotate around the predetermined axis, and the second dial knob being provided so as to surround the first dial knob, a gear which rotates in response to a rotation of the second dial knob, and is provided on the body, and a pulley unit which includes a first pulley having a connection portion and a second pulley having a gear portion, the second pulley being arranged coaxially with the first pulley. The connection portion of the first pulley is connected to the first dial knob and the gear portion of the second pulley is meshed with the gear in a state that the pulley unit is attached to the body. |
| US08381608B2 |
Gear
A gear having a tooth form shape includes, on a tooth root side of a tooth, (1) a first curved surface connected to a tooth face of an involute tooth form and convex in a direction opposite to the tooth face, (2) a flat surface connected to the first curved surface, and (3) a second curved surface connected to the flat surface and convex in the same direction as the first curved surface. The shape of the flat surface in a normal plane is a tangent in contact with a tip side end of a trajectory of motion B of a tooth of a meshing partner gear and intersecting with a tooth form center line at a 30° angle. The shapes of the first and the second curved surfaces in a normal plane are circular arcs. |
| US08381607B2 |
Roller screw
A roller screw includes a long shaft, a screw nut sleeved onto the long shaft, and rollers, a turnaround member and a turnover member set in between the long shaft and the screw nut. The turnaround member enables the rollers to circulate. The turnover member defines a turnover passage extending over the peripheral surface of the long shaft and connected between two load paths in the long shaft and the screw nut to constitute a circulation path. The direction of arrangement of the rollers before entering the turnover passage is different from that after moving out of the turnover passage so that the amount ratio of the rollers that are arranged in two different directions is kept constant for industrial application. |
| US08381604B2 |
Intelligent sootblower
An intelligent sootblower that may be configured as a modification to an existing sootblower or a specially constructed sootblower that, in addition to its normal soot blowing functions, has the capability to measure the flue gas, lance tube, and/or cleaning fluid temperatures. One or more thermocouples or other temperature measuring devices are carried by the sootblower lance tube that is inserted into the boiler. This allows for the temperature of the flue gas, lance tube, and cleaning fluid to be measured as the sootblower lance tube is inserted into and retracted from the boiler. Multiple temperature measuring devices may be located on the sootblower lance to measure the temperature across heat transfer surfaces and at different locations along the lance tube. A data transfer device transmits the temperature measurements from the rotating thermocouple to a non-rotating data acquisition unit for use in boiler cleaning and other operations. |
| US08381603B2 |
Fall detection system
There is provided a fall detection system comprising a fall detector for monitoring the movement of a user and detecting if the user has fallen or is about to fall, one or more sensors for collecting measurements of one or more physical characteristics of the user, wherein the fall detector uses the measurements to adapt the fall detection to the physical characteristics of the user. |
| US08381601B2 |
Transducer matrix film
A transducer system includes a plurality of transducer elements formed on a flexible substrate with localized circuit elements and interconnects associated with each transducer element. |
| US08381599B2 |
Wind energy installation comprising a wind speed measuring system
A wind energy installation is disclosed. The wind energy installation includes a rotor with at least one rotor blade. The wind energy installation includes at least one wind speed measuring system. The at least one wind speed measuring system optically measures the vibrations of an optical fiber due to vortex shedding. |
| US08381596B2 |
CMOS compatible pressure sensor for low pressures
Pressure sensors having a topside boss and a cavity formed using deep reactive-ion etching (DRIE) or plasma etching. Since the boss is formed on the topside, the boss is aligned to other features on the topside of the pressure sensor, such as a Wheatstone bridge or other circuit elements. Also, since the boss is formed as part of the diaphragm, the boss has a reduced mass and is less susceptible to the effects of gravity and acceleration. These pressure sensors may also have a cavity formed using a DRIE or plasma etch. Use of these etches result in a cavity having edges that are substantially orthogonal to the diaphragm, such that pressure sensor die area is reduced. The use of these etches also permits the use of p-doped wafers, which are compatible with conventional CMOS technologies. |
| US08381594B2 |
Acoustic transducer and image generation apparatus
An acoustic transducer has a first transducer which transmits an acoustic primary wave having two frequency components, and a second transducer which, in order to receive a reflected wave of an acoustic secondary wave generated with propagation of the acoustic primary wave, is disposed so that a region for receiving the reflected wave is superimposed on the first transducer as seen along the direction of transmission of the acoustic primary wave. |
| US08381589B2 |
Single-axis-control-input gyroscope system having imperfection compensation
The present invention proposes a single-axis-control-input gyroscope system having imperfection compensation, which comprises a gyroscope and a state observer. The gyroscope includes a mechanical structure, and the dynamic behavior of the mechanical structure is described with a plurality of system parameters and a plurality of dynamic equations. The system parameters include a mass of the gyroscope, two main-axis spring constants, a cross-axis spring constant, two main-axis damping coefficients, a cross-axis damping coefficient and an angular velocity. The mechanical imperfections cause the system parameters to deviate from the designed values and become unknown values. The gyroscope receives a single-axis control signal and outputs a plurality of gyroscopic system dynamics. The single-axis control signal includes at least two frequency signals. The state observer is coupled to the gyroscope to receive the gyroscopic system dynamics as the inputs thereof to feed back compensations to the state observer. Thereby is estimated an angular velocity. |
| US08381586B2 |
Unitary drive system for water meter
A metering apparatus for measuring the flow of water or other fluid through a conduit. The meter comprises a measuring chamber, in which is disposed a nutating ball and disc. A unitary biaxial member, comprising a drive shaft and a spindle having a longitudinal axis offset from that of the drive shaft, couples the ball and disc to a rotating magnet. The unitary biaxial member both controls the offset of the ball and disc from horizontal, such that it nutates in response to water flow through the meter, and translates this nutation to rotation of the magnet, allowing for measurement of water volume flowing through the measuring chamber. |
| US08381584B1 |
Model hull testing method, platform, and system
A model hull testing method, platform, and system are disclosed that acquire model hull performance data about one or more hulls in an open-water environment, preferably testing two hulls simultaneously as they encounter essentially the same sea state. Avoiding tow-tank testing by providing a powered watercraft as an open-water testing platform, the method proceeds by supporting the model hulls on the testing platform, so they float in outboard positions, and then by acquiring data about hull performance as the testing platform and model hulls move together through an open body of water. A complement of data acquisition components acquires digital and analog data about the testing environment and model hull performance, preferably including platform motion, time and location information, wave characteristics, apparent wind speed and direction, and model hull drag and motion, with all data being recorded on an onboard laptop computer for later processing and analysis. A trimaran powered watercraft configuration and preferred data-acquisition components and techniques are also disclosed. |
| US08381581B2 |
Volumetric measurement
Disclosed is a method of determining a volume of liquid in a sample tube, comprising the steps of capturing an image of the sample tube, determining a first region of interest within the sample tube based upon pre-stored information concerning dimensional properties of the sample tube, scanning the first region of interest to detect the position of a meniscus indicative of an upper extent of the liquid, and using said meniscus position together with certain pre-stored properties of the sample tube to determine a volume of liquid in the tube, and outputting said volume. Also disclosed is an apparatus for performing the method. |
| US08381579B2 |
Vibration damping device and vehicle
The present invention provides a vibration damping device which can enhance a vibration damping effect even in a case where a vibration damping target position and a vibration damping force generation position are different from each other. The vibration damping device includes a vibration detecting unit for detecting a vibration which is caused by a vibration generating source and is transmitted to a position at which the vibration is to be damped; a vibration application unit which generates a vibration damping force to cancel the vibration, and is provided at a position different from the position at which the vibration is to be damped; a vibration application command generating unit for outputting a vibration application command to generate the vibration damping force in the vibration application unit, based on the vibration detected by the vibration detecting unit; and a vibration application command correcting unit which imparts to the vibration application command, a reverse property of a vibration damping force transmission path including a vibration transmission property from a position at which the vibration application unit is mounted to the position at which the vibration is to be damped, and then outputs the vibration application command to the vibration application unit. |
| US08381572B2 |
Device for recording measurement data
The device is used to record measurement data and has a housing, a housing interior and a membrane that is held by the housing and delimits the housing interior in regions. At least one sensor is arranged inside the housing interior. Furthermore, a thermocatalytic element for the decomposition of at least one gas is arranged in the housing interior. |
| US08381571B2 |
Method and apparatus for assessing the penetration of tooth cleaning elements in the gingival pocket
A method and apparatus for assessing the penetration of tooth cleaning elements into a simulated gingival pocket. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a tooth shaped member, wherein at least a portion of the tooth is transparent to light; a gum member positioned on a first side of the tooth shaped member; a simulated gingival pocket created between the gum member and the tooth shaped member; and an imaging device configured to obtain a plurality of images related to the gingival pocket, and bristle penetration into the gingival pocket. |
| US08381569B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining load amount in a laundry treating appliance
A method for determining the amount of laundry in a laundry treating appliance comprises a drum defining a treating chamber for receiving the laundry and a motor for rotating the drum that may be operated to simulate a spring to oscillate the drum relative to a predetermined rotational position. The angular decay of the drum relative to the predetermined position may be determined and used to determine the amount of laundry. |
| US08381565B2 |
Multifunctional multipositional precision hand mechanical rivet setting device
A hand and mechanically activated rivet setting device uniquely and integrally designed to set multiple different types of rivets comprising tubular, semi-tubular and solid rivets made entirely or in part from aluminum, brass, steel and stainless steel having multiple different kinds of heads comprising truss, dome and flat rivet heads; in a work product consisting of pieces and components to be riveted together. The device has the means to set rivets from different positional locations within the device and provides the device operator the ability to completely control the rivet setting process, assuring precision rivet setting without damaging the pieces or components being riveted. |
| US08381560B2 |
Hydroforming method
The present invention provides a hydroforming method able to increase the expansion ratio to obtain a complicated shape hydroformed product and able to reduce the number of steps of work, that is, a hydroforming method loading a metal pipe into a divided mold, clamping the mold, then applying an internal pressure and pushing force in the pipe axial direction to said metal pipe, comprising, in a first hydroforming step, expanding said metal pipe in one direction of said metal pipe cross-section to obtain an intermediate product having a circumferential length of 90% to 100% of the circumferential length of the product shape in all of the expanded part in the pipe axial direction and having a height greater than the height of the product in said one direction and at least part of the pipe axial direction, then, in a second hydroforming step, reducing the height in the one direction of said intermediate product in all or part of the pipe axial direction while shaping the product to the final product shape. Further, in the case of a shape including bending, a bending step is performed between the above first hydroforming step and second hydroforming step. |
| US08381559B2 |
Method for operating a mill train, in particular in a cold rolling mill
One embodiment of the present invention discloses a method for operating a mill train, in particular used in a cold-rolling mill. The mill train includes operating rolls with a roll gap disposed in-between through which a rolled strip is guided. With the method of at least one embodiment, the thickness and the roll-in speed of the rolled strip are measured in front of the roll gap. The roll-out speed of the rolled strip after the roll gap is reconstructed with the aid of the tangential speed of the operating rolls. The thickness after the roll gap is then determined with the aid of the thickness and the roll-in speed in front of the roll gap and the reconstructed roll-out speed. |
| US08381558B2 |
Institutional door lock and retrofit mechanism
An institutional door lock mechanism for retrofitting existing installations with a remotely controllable/monitorable door lock and open/close position indicator is described. A hollow vertical door strike jamb extends along an outside surface of the door frame opposite a hollow vertical columnar striker plate mechanism mounted on a fronting plate of the door. A hollow vertical housing also on the fronting plate contains a first component part of a proximity/alignment detection mechanism including a magnetic reed switch. The door strike jamb is configured as a vertical riser for housing a wiring harness for the catch-extension/retraction mechanism and for the proximity/alignment detection mechanism. The catch-extension/retraction mechanism includes a motor for extending/retracting the catch, the motor being operable by a securely coded manual key placed adjacent a switch mechanism or within a keyway operatively coupled with the switch mechanism. The catch-extension/retraction mechanism operates in a fail-safe lock-down mode of operation in the event of power interruption or failure. |
| US08381557B2 |
Multi-functional combination glass door handle lock
The invention comprises an adjustable door handle and an electronic or mechanical lock. The length of right outer handle, which is an adjustable handle and with cylindrical shape could be cut to suit for existing glass door holes. Its bottom should be put into a bottom cup of the right outer handle. The hole in center bottom of bottom cup should be put into a two-way screw of a cylindrical part of bottom piece and connect to a bottom piece of right outer handle. The bottom piece of the right outer handle has a bend body, its top end is a cylinder, and its middle body is a declining rectangular board, and lower end is a rectangular bend. The plane of the rectangular bend, right glass door and rectangular bend of the right door bottom piece will be connected and screw affixed. |
| US08381555B2 |
Cutting device, machining method, and die machined by the machining method
A cutting device is provided which can simultaneously achieve a shorter machining time, lower machining resistance during cutting, and high-precision machining. To be specific, the cutting device of the present invention includes a three-axis tool unit including a first actuator operating in a u direction, a second actuator operating in a v direction orthogonal to the u direction, a third actuator operating in a w direction orthogonal to the u direction and the v direction, a tool holder disposed at the intersection of the u direction, the v direction, and the w direction, a tool mounted in the tool holder, and three sensors for measuring the displacements of the first, second, and third actuators, respectively and feeding back displacement signals representing the measured displacements, wherein the first, second, and third actuators of the three-axis tool unit vibrate so as to perform vibration cutting on a work material. |
| US08381554B2 |
Lock-protecting hasp apparatus
A lock-protecting hasp apparatus for use on a container having a door movable between closed and open positions and including a first hasp, mounted to an exterior surface of the door, and a second hasp. Each hasp has a mounting portion and a hasp portion connected to and extending away from the mounting portion of the respective hasp. Each hasp portion defines openings for accepting and accommodating a shackle of a lock. Each hasp further includes a shackle guard secured to and extending generally coextensive with the hasp portion of each hasp. Each shackle guard also defines openings to allow the lock shackle to pass therethrough and secure the hasps to each other. A lengthwise portion of each shackle guard vertically extends beyond the hasp portion of each hasp and defines a third opening for accommodating a security seal passing therethrough. |
| US08381552B2 |
Modular laundry system with vertical laundry module
A laundry system comprises a first laundry appliance, a second laundry appliance, and a vertical laundry module. The vertical laundry module can have a housing with a width less than the width of each of the first and second laundry appliances. The vertical laundry module can have a drawer that slidably opens from a face of the housing and a backsplash extending above an upper surface of the housing. The backsplash can further have a functional element that can be a storage compartment, a light, a control panel, or a power outlet. |
| US08381550B1 |
Needle bed structure for flat knitting machines
A needle bed structure for flat knitting machines that is located at two sides of a needle bed gap includes a plurality of parallel needle plates, a plurality of knitting needles and sinkers located between the needle plates, a sinker control portion movable in parallel with the arranged direction of the sinkers, and at least one control cam driven by a switching portion to push the sinkers to rotate towards the needle bed gap during the switching movement. The switching portion performs a switching movement according to the moving direction. The needle plates hole at least one needle pressing board to restrict vertical movement of the knitting needles. The switching portion has a magnetic attracting portion corresponding to the needle pressing board to form magnetic attraction therewith. A spacer is provided between the needle plates to prevent the horizontal movement of the sinkers. |
| US08381547B2 |
Air-cooling/tempering apparatus for glass sheet, and air-cooling/tempering method
An air-cooling/tempering apparatus and method, which can properly temper a glass sheet bent to have a complexly curved surface, without increasing the heating temperature of the glass sheet or increasing a wind pressure from air-blowing openings. A lower blowing member of the air-cooling/tempering apparatus includes a plurality of blade-shaped members arranged into a combtooth shape each having a front end face provided with a plurality of arranged air-blowing openings. Each blade-shaped member has a front end face with a concave curve so that a gap from the plurality of airblowing openings to the bent glass sheet becomes substantially uniform. The arrangement of air-blowing openings provided on the front end face of each blade-shaped member is turned with a predetermined angle and extends in one direction in each side portion in plan view. |
| US08381543B2 |
System for enhanced fuel gas composition control in an LNG facility
An LNG facility employing an enhanced fuel gas control system. The enhanced fuel gas control system is operable to produce fuel gas having a substantially constant Modified Wobbe Index (MWI) during start-up and steady-state operation of the LNG facility by processing one or more intermediate process streams in a fuel gas separator. In one embodiment, the fuel gas separator employs a hydrocarbon-separating membrane, which can remove heavy hydrocarbons and/or concentrate nitrogen from the incoming process streams. |
| US08381542B2 |
Beverage temperature modification device
A beverage temperature modification device for cooling and warming beverages in a drinking vessel. The device has a body with an interior chamber for holding a temperature modifying substance such as water and a cap with an arm for securing the device to the rim of a vessel so that the device is maintained in a fixed position. The cap may be detachable and the body may have an opening for putting the temperature modifying substance into the chamber, or the temperature modifying substance may be sealed permanently in the chamber. The arm may be flexible so that it can stretch to allow securing the device to rims varying in thickness by a factor of two or more. The arm may be pivotable to allow adjustment of the position of the device when it is secured to the rim of a vessel. |
| US08381541B2 |
Air conditioning device utilizing temperature differentiation of exhausted gas to even temperature of external heat exchanger
This invention relates to a cooling/heating air conditioning device for regulating temperature, which pumps an airflow exhausted from a space in an air conditioning object such as inside of a room or vehicle to the external through the external heat exchanger disposed at the external of the air conditioning object such as outside of the room or vehicle so as to equalize the temperature of the fluid flowing through the internal of the external heat exchanger by means of the temperature difference between the internal and external of the air conditioning object for achieving an energy saving effect. |
| US08381539B2 |
Method and control system for decreasing the thermal load on animals
A method of controlling a cooling element in order to decrease the thermal load on animals includes the step: —to start the cooling element when the air temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value and/or a parameter, dependent on the relative humidity of air, exceeds a predetermined threshold value. |
| US08381537B2 |
Brine composition for frozen food and method for producing frozen food
The present invention provides a brine composition for a frozen food which does not raise the freezing temperature even if the ethanol concentration is low, and is therefore able to suppress tissue breakdown caused by the growth of water ice crystals in the tissues (cells) of foods, and a method for producing a frozen food. The brine composition for a frozen food contains 30 to 70% by weight of ethyl alcohol, 0.5 to 10.0% by weight of erythritol, and water. It is preferable that the concentration of the ethyl alcohol is 35 to 60% by weight, the concentration of the erythritol is 0.8 to 5.0% by weight, and the rest is water. |
| US08381533B2 |
Direct transfer axial tangential onboard injector system (TOBI) with self-supporting seal plate
An apparatus for cooling turbine blades in a turbine engine including a direct transfer axial tangential onboard injector (TOBI) for a turbine rotor and a self-supporting seal plate disposed on a rotating disk for the turbine engine. The TOBI includes a plurality of openings emanating a flow of cooling air. The self-supporting seal plate comprises a plurality of shaped cooling holes in fluid communication with the flow of cooling air emanating from the TOBI. The rotating disk includes a plurality of turbine blade slots formed therein. The plurality of cooling holes are in fluid communication with the plurality of turbine blade slots for directing the flow of cooling air to provide cooling to the plurality of turbine blades. The plurality of openings, the plurality of cooling holes and the plurality of turbine blade slots are in axial alignment and optimized to minimize radial and hoop stresses. |
| US08381532B2 |
Bled diffuser fed secondary combustion system for gas turbines
The present subject matter provides a system for modifying static pressure recoveries and emissions formation within a gas turbine. The system includes a bled diffuser positioned downstream from a compressor section of the gas turbine and a bleed duct extending from the bled diffuser. The bleed duct may be configured to direct bleed air from the pressurized airflow exiting the compressor section to a secondary combustion system located downstream from the main combustion system in a combustor. The bleed air flowing into the secondary combustion system may be mixed with fuel to form an air/fuel mixture. |
| US08381531B2 |
Gas turbine fuel injector with a rich catalyst
A fuel injector for a gas turbine engine may include a pilot assembly extending along a longitudinal axis. The pilot assembly may be configured to direct a pilot fuel-air mixture to a combustor of the gas turbine engine. The fuel injector may also include a rich catalyst module circumferentially disposed about the pilot assembly. The catalyst module may be configured to simultaneously direct a stream of compressed air and a stream of first fuel-air mixture therethrough without intermixing. The fuel injector may also include a post mix zone disposed downstream of the catalyst module. The post mix zone may be configured to mix the compressed air and the first fuel air mixture to create a main fuel-air mixture. The fuel injector may further include an air swirler disposed downstream of the post mix zone. The air swirler may be configured to direct the main fuel-air mixture to the combustor without intermixing with the pilot fuel-air mixture. |
| US08381529B2 |
System and method for water injection in a turbine engine
A system includes a water injection system configured to supply water from a pressure regulating valve to a water manifold of a turbine engine. The system also includes a drain valve configured to drain at least a portion of the water from the pressure regulating valve during a start-up period of the water injection system at least until a stable water pressure is achieved downstream of the pressure regulating valve. |
| US08381527B2 |
Combustor having an acoustically enhanced ejector system
The present specification generally relates to improvements to combustors such as burners and engines. In one aspect, the specification presents an acoustically enhanced ejector system which can be used as part of an intake system for a combustor. In another aspect, the specification teaches the use of a combustor combustion chamber as an oscillator to magnify a harmonic frequency of a pulsating frequency of the combustor. In still other aspects, the specification presents a combustion chamber having an inlet with a plurality of tangentially spaced apertures, and an in-line intake system connected to the apertures. |
| US08381524B2 |
Reciprocating expansion engine and piston of a reciprocating expansion engine
A piston and a reciprocating expansion engine with a piston having a piston head, a piston neck, and a piston shaft are described. The piston head has at least one groove which runs in a circumferential direction suitable for receiving a piston ring, and the piston shaft has a pin boss and, at its outer circumference, a guide surface which is suitable for guiding the piston along a cylinder inner wall. An outer diameter of the piston neck is smaller than an outer diameter of the piston head and/or of the piston shaft, and the length of the piston neck approximately corresponds to the travel of the piston in the installed state. |
| US08381523B2 |
Geothermal electricity production methods and geothermal energy collection systems
Two Geothermal energy harnessing devices, steam producing System, electricity production Method and heat energy Method are invented for mining renewable geothermal heat energy within a non-polluting, re-circulating, closed cycle intended for electricity generating applications or for other direct or indirect heat uses. The devices, the “Geothermal Energy Collector” and the “Geothermal Energy Exchanger” can work with a Depressurized Mixing Container and a Pressurized Storage Container the entirety of which comprises “THE GEOTHERMAL FLUID HEATING OR STEAM PRODUCTION SYSTEM. The system serves other equipment, such as a phase separator, steam turbine, generator and condenser, which working together with the system comprises either “THE GEOTHERMAL ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION METHOD” or “THE GEOTHERMAL HEAT ENERGY METHOD”. The GEC or GEE can work alone or within a system to add heat to any fluid and to use the heated fluid to supplement any appropriate technology, to produce electricity or for other direct or indirect uses. |
| US08381521B2 |
Vehicle pneumatic booster system operating method and apparatus
An apparatus and method for improving vehicle performance by application of pneumatic boost to vehicle engines, including diesel engines having at least one turbocharger supplying air to the engine, in a manner which increases engine torque output while minimizing the potential for exceed various operating limits to the maximum practicable extent. The vehicle's pneumatic booster system controller implements strategies for shaping the rate of the air injection during a boost event, tailoring the air injection to obtain maximum engine torque output while respecting the operating limits, by controlling the timing, duration, quantity and/or injection pattern during a boost event to achieve a refined distribution of compressed air injection over the course of the boost event to provide desired engine torque output and fuel efficiency while minimizing the potential for exceeding a wide variety of operation limits, regulatory, engineering and passenger comfort limits. |
| US08381520B2 |
Motor vehicle internal combustion engine EGR loop
A motor vehicle internal combustion engine EGR loop, in which: with the fresh air flow rate in the air inlet path (2) of the EGR valve (1) set at a maximum, the path (3) for the EGR gases in the valve is progressively opened, and before the EGR gas flow rate in the valve increases any further, the fresh air inlet path (2) is progressively closed in order to continue to cause the EGR gas flow rate to increase on an increasing monotonous curve. |
| US08381519B2 |
Method of stationary regeneration of an engine exhaust particulate filter
A method of controlling an engine exhaust temperature and an exhaust mass flow rate for stationary regeneration of an engine exhaust gas particulate filter of an engine. The method implements a feed forward control that sets an EGR valve position and an injection timing associated with the engine, and a sets an engine speed. The method implements a feed back control that sets a turbo waste gate position and an intake throttle position associated with the engine. |
| US08381515B2 |
Force transmission device
A force transmission device including at least one input and one output, a hydrodynamic component disposed there between, and a vibration damper disposed subsequent thereto in the force flow, which vibration damper comprises at least one damper input connected torque proof to the hydrodynamic component and at least one axial bearing disposed between the damper input and an element forming a support surface in axial direction. The damper input in the portion of its inner circumference includes a bearing seat for the axial bearing. The bearing seat for the axial bearing is formed by at least one rim portion, folded over at the inner circumference of the damper input and forming a fold-over portion. |
| US08381507B2 |
Systems and methods for optimized gas turbine shutdown
A gas turbine engine. The gas turbine engine may include a compressor for compressing a flow of air, a combustor for combusting the flow of air and a flow of fuel to create a flow of combustion gases, a turbine driven by the flow of combustion gases, a rotor driven by the turbine and driving the compressor, a rotor speed sensor, and a gas turbine shut down controller. The gas turbine shut down controller varies the flow of fuel to the combustor based upon a rotational speed of the rotor as determined by a dynamic target trajectory schedule. |
| US08381505B2 |
Metallic cord comprising preformed and non-preformed wires, rubber sheet comprising said cord and tyre comprising at least one layer derived from said rubber sheet
A two-layer cord having a number of wires in the outer layer, enclosing, but not completely, a cord core formed by a plurality of core wires, and in which the core wires are not preformed, while at least some of the outer wires are preformed. |
| US08381500B2 |
Aquatic weed harvester
An aquatic weed harvester includes an open frame and a tubular mesh harvesting material that is secured to the open frame via a series of hooks disposed about the harvesting frame. The frame can be secured to a bow of a floatable structure or vessel via a variety of configurations, such as a pair of mounting channels or a rotating frame assembly. The rotating frame assembly allows the user to rotate the harvester between an in use orientation and a stored orientation. When placed in a stored orientation, the harvester opening is rotated upwards aiding the user in sealing the harvesting bag. The vessel preferably is designed having a split bow, where the weed harvester is positioned between the two bow extensions. |
| US08381499B2 |
Machine and method for canning tuna and the like
A machine for canning tuna and similar food products comprises a conveyor belt feeder, a plurality of dosing chambers aligned with the feeder and formed in a rotor rotatable in a plane perpendicular to the feed direction, a mouth connecting the feeder to the dosing chambers, a blade to separate the product introduced in the dosing chambers from the bulk of fed product so as to obtain product cakes, shaping means suitable to shape the cakes into the desired shape and transferring means arranged at a second station reachable through a partial rotation of the rotor to transfer the shaped cakes into the cans carried by another rotor. The connecting mouth has a cross-section of substantially constant shape and the shaping is performed in the dosing chambers by shapers radially mobile along the arms of the rotor when the dosing chambers are still aligned with the feeder. |
| US08381498B2 |
Method of manufacturing a dressing package
A method of making a packaged dressing involves coating a pattern of detachable high tack pressure sensitive adhesive on a cover material such that the cover material includes a tackless area; forming a release island on a backing material; and sandwiching a dressing between the cover material and the backing material such that the adhesive on the dressing abuts the release island, and the pattern of adhesive on the cover material adheres to and supports the dressing along its extent except for the portion overlying the tackless area and hermetically seals the dressing within the package. |
| US08381496B2 |
Method of hot-filling a plastic, wide-mouth, blow-molded container having a multi-functional base
A container can have a body with an integrally formed base attached to the body. The base includes a concave annular wall extending from the container sidewall to a standing surface, and an inner wall extending from the standing surface to a substantially flat inner annular wall. The inner annular wall is recessed in the base and is substantially perpendicular to the container sidewall. The inner annular wall includes a centrally located dimple. The dimple includes a plurality of spaced apart and radially extending indented ribs. One or more of the ribs extend radially into a brace that tapers to meet the inner annular wall. |
| US08381495B2 |
Gel mat and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention discloses a gel mat and a method for manufacturing the same. The purpose thereof is to provide a gel mat which features simple manufacturing process, low cost, ease of use, high reliability, and freedom from possible damage in case of being pierced or depressed with a pressure, and a method for manufacturing the same. The gel mat includes a hermetically sealed bag which is constituted by two layers of a film material, the bag being packed with gel flakes. Said method for manufacturing a gel mat comprises the steps of preparation of material, bag making, monomer solution pouring, heating for solidification, and inspection and packaging in this order. The present invention adopts a gel instead of water, which is conventionally used, for producing a flake gel mat the external surfaces of which are inside a bag; the gel is a colloid obtained by polymerizing the organic matter; approx. 70% of the gel is constituted by water; and thus the gel mat has an extremely good endothermic performance. In addition, the gel offers no flowability like water, being able to be stably used, and even when the bag is broken through by a pointed substance or burst out to be holed, there will cause no leakage, which allows the service life of the mat to be substantially extended. The method for manufacturing uses polymerization reaction; smoothes the gel mat flat inside the bag by applying an external pressure; and thus can provide a finished gel mat which has smooth and neat outer surfaces. |
| US08381494B2 |
Method for controlling the operation of an aseptic filling machine
A method for controlling the operation of an aseptic product filling machine includes the steps of performing a pre-production test procedure during a pre-production phase in which at least a set of subcritical control parameters are measured, diagnosed and stored, checking if those subcritical control parameters are within their range, starting a production phase if all of the subcritical control parameters are indeed within their range, and measuring, diagnosing and storing a set of supercritical control parameters and not the subcritical control parameters during the production phase. |
| US08381492B2 |
Hygienic hair brush cover
A hygienic cover for a hair brush is an elastic plastic netting of lycra polyester stitched into a tunnel shape with open and closed ends. This cover is rolled on a hollow insert with two open ends. A hairbrush is inserted into and through the insert. The closed end of the cover hits the end of the brush and the cover is stretched over the brush and slides off the insert and compresses around the brush head. The cover is porous and the holes grow when stretched, allowing the brush bristles to pass through the cover. When allowed to slide off the insert and collapse around the brush, the cover closes tightly around the bristles to prevent debris from reaching the brush head. The cover protects the brush in use. After each use, the hygienic cover can be taken off and replaced by a new cover. |
| US08381491B2 |
Vial lid fastening device and medicine accommodating and removing device
There is provided an improved vial lid fastening device capable of reliably completing lid fastening in a short time. The vial lid fastening device 30 has a lid rotating device 51, a lid placing member 52, 53, a transporting device 55, 56, a first lid body reservoir 115, 116, a vial lid holding and supplying device 57, and a vial discharging device 58. A lid body 3 slides on an inclined flat surface 102 to reach a terminal mechanism part 101, and a stepped section 31 of the lid body 3 engages a stepped section holder 105. The lid body 3 is grasped by chuck claws 35 and is rotated as engaged to the terminal mechanism part 101 of the stepped section holder 105. Then, one of rotation regulating protrusions 28a, 28b of the lid body 3 is allowed to collide with a rotation preventing member 107 of the lid placing member 52. Thus, position determination in a rotation direction is performed with reference to the rotation regulating projections 28a, 28b and such position is maintained fixedly. Thereafter, the lid body 3 is mated with the vial body 2 and then rotated by a chuck. |
| US08381482B2 |
Anchor bolt locator
An anchor bolt locator is provided that is inexpensively manufactured on automatic die-press machines from sheet steel and a structural nut that does not require any welding, while also being easy to use and install with current, commonly-used building practices and anchor designs. The anchor bolt locator is made from a galvanized sheet metal chair and a structural nut attached to the chair by way of a friction fit. |
| US08381481B2 |
Linear connector for spacers in insulating glass panes, method for the production thereof and method for connecting two ends of a hollow profile bar for a spacer using such a linear connector
What is described is a linear connector for connecting two opposing ends of a hollow profile member for the purposes of forming a frame-like spacer for the production of insulating glass panes. The linear connector includes a top side, a bottom side and two side surfaces, connecting the top side and the bottom side of the linear connector. The linear connector is provided with a midsection in a middle area of the linear connector, with the midsection extending at least along an entire width of the top side or of the bottom side of the linear connector. |
| US08381477B2 |
Mechanical locking of floor panels with a flexible tongue
Floor panels are shown which are provided with a mechanical locking system consisting of an extruded flexible tongue in a sidewardly open groove which during a vertical folding motion is bent horizontally. |
| US08381468B2 |
Modular building structure
Modular building structures and systems for construction of modular buildings are provided. A modular building structure according to one embodiment includes at least two panels having two outer skins and an inner core; at least two panel spacers between the outer skins of the panels; at least two panel connectors partially receiving the panels; at least one coupling bar; and at least one corner coupler configured to couple two of the panels substantially perpendicular to each other. A modular building structure may further include at least one straight coupler configured to couple two of the panels substantially parallel to each other. |
| US08381467B2 |
Item of wall-like standing furniture
An item of wall-like standing furniture, in particular in the form of a partition wall, is distinguished, inter alia, by the following features: —a hole (37, 39) is made in a central body section (21), in each case from the outside in the axial direction of the respective insertion limb (23), wherein the two holes (37, 39) intersect in a crossing section (40), —an intermediate anchoring element (43) can be or is inserted, by way of its insertion body (43), into at least one of the two holes (37, 39), the intermediate anchoring element (43) has a threaded hole (45) which rent transverse to the axial direction of the insertion body (43a), the intermediate anchoring element (43) can be or is positioned in the at least one hole (37, 39) such that the threaded hole (45) in the insertion body (43a) is aligned with the respectively other hole (39, 37) in the central body section (21). |
| US08381464B2 |
Solar array support methods and systems
Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. The embodiments comprise various combinations of cables, support columns, and pod constructions in which to support solar panels. The solar panels can incorporate single or dual tracking capabilities to enhance sunlight capture. The embodiments encourage dual land use in which installation of the systems minimizes disruption of the underlying ground. Supplemental power may be provided by vertical axis windmills integrated with the columns. Special installations of the system can include systems mounted over structures such as parking lots, roads and aqueducts. |
| US08381463B2 |
Energy absorbing system for safeguarding structures from disruptive forces
The invention is an energy absorbing system for safeguarding structures from disruptive forces, which may be implemented into structures or devices to provide protection from seismic motion, blasts or other disruptive forces, due to the system's displacement and damping characteristics. The system's performance can be better molded analytically to predict performance of the structure under earthquake and wind motions, for example. By utilizing cost effective materials and a simple design, the present invention provides a more efficient cost-effective system for absorbing unwanted energy, for example, a base isolation system. |
| US08381462B1 |
Mechanism for adjusting the length of a support column
A mechanism for adjusting the length of a support column which comprises an elongated pipe. A cap plate is affixed onto a top end of the elongated pipe. The cap plate has a plurality of mounting holes. A base assembly is removably retained to a bottom end of the elongated pipe, utilizing an expandable chuck sleeve, after a lower portion of the elongated pipe is cut away, thereby to properly size the length of the elongated pipe. |
| US08381455B2 |
Tool free transitional shelter
A modular shelter comprising a first side wall, first end wall, second side wall, second end wall, first roof section, and a second roof section cut from stock material, such that: (a) the first side wall and the first end wall, the first end wall and the second side wall, the second side wall and the second end wall, and the second end wall and the first side wall are disposed at an angle between 60 and 120 degrees relative to one another and are connected by at least two mortise and tenon joints; and (b) the first roof section and the second roof section are disposed at an angle between 45 and 180 degrees relative to one another and are connected by at least two mortise and tenon joints; wherein the components of the mortise and tenon joints are created using one tool resulting in a novel joint. |
| US08381451B1 |
Roof edge blocking system
A system for blocking an edge of a building roof structure, e.g., roof structures of cementitious material poured over a corrugated deck or roof structures of rigid insulative panels supported on a corrugated deck, comprises an elongate U-shaped base member for affixation to the deck along the roof edge, an elongate cover member of inverted U-shape for affixation over the base member, the base and cover members being made of galvanized steel or other suitable non-wood material and, as assembled together, forming an auxiliary perimeter structure on the roof structure for border containment of the roofing material. |
| US08381450B2 |
Standing seam profile field welding device and method
This invention relates to a novel thermoplastic profile roofing strip and an apparatus for welding the thermoplastic profile roofing strip to a thermoplastic roofing membrane. |
| US08381445B2 |
Automatically sealing multi panel sliding door assembly
A sliding door system 11 can include a sealing mechanism 40 such that, when a door panel 10, 10a is slid to a closed configuration 100, one ore more seal elements 42 are extended to form a seal between the door panel 10, 10a and it surroundings at the bottom, top and/or sides of the door to reduce or prevent infiltration of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the door panel 10, 10a can automatically move an actuation mechanism 50, 50a to extend the seals around the door. The sealing member 40 can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element 42 that is extended into sealing contact with a floor 6 or other surface. Multiple door panels 10, 10a including the sealing system can be arranged to form a door panel system 11. |
| US08381444B1 |
Sliding door assembly
A sliding door assembly has a frame with a movable panel and a fixed panel. The movable panel has a pair of rollers that roll along a header located above the panels with the rollers attached to the movable panel via posts that pass through a channel on the header. The posts pass through a curved section of the channel whenever the movable panel is proximate its closed position and a straight section of channel when the movable panel is traveling laterally. The movable panel presses against a gasket located on the frame components surrounding the movable panel wherein one or more latches press the movable panel against the gasket whenever this panel is in the closed position. Valve is positioned within a weep hole on the threshold in order to prevent water from seeping into the building via the bottom of the door assembly. |
| US08381434B2 |
Greenhouse windbreak mechanism
There is provided a greenhouse windbreak mechanism which is less prone to collapse of cultivation greenhouses, even when the greenhouse windbreak mechanism is constructed along with the cultivation greenhouses such as plastic greenhouses with relatively-lower strength and is subjected to storm winds or strong monsoons. There are provided a windbreak fence which surrounds one or more cultivation greenhouses and is annularly placed to be erected with a larger height than that of the cultivation greenhouses, a ventilation portion which is formed, at an upper portion of the windbreak fence, to have a predetermined longitudinal width from the upper end of the windbreak fence and includes a plurality of through holes which are dispersedly placed; and a plurality of baffle plates which form a plurality of through holes in its entire surface or partially for passing strong winds therethrough when they are laterally placed above the cultivation greenhouses. The ventilation portion and the baffle plates alleviate strong winds intruding into the inside of the mechanism by getting around the upper end of the windbreak fence, when the strong winds impinge on the windbreak fence. |
| US08381433B2 |
Grafted seedling producing device
A grafted seedling producing device including a stock seedling holding unit that holds and conveys a stock seedling, a stock cutting unit that cuts the stock seedling held by the stock seedling holding unit, and a joining unit that joins the stock seedling conveyed by the stock seedling holding unit and a scion seedling, the stock cutting unit including a stock cutter unit that includes a stock blade for cutting the stock seedling by a predetermined stock cutter trajectory, the stock seedling holding unit holding an embryonic stem of a seedling for grafting at a predetermined position on the stock cutter trajectory in a vertical posture, the grafted seedling producing device includes: a supporting unit configured to retract the stock cutter unit from an advance position for cutting in proximity to the stock seedling holding unit; and a stock pressing member that presses and fixes a portion ahead of a cutting position of the embryonic stem from a seedling holding position against the stock seedling holding unit side at the advance position. |
| US08381431B2 |
Mosquito trapping equipment utilizing her habit and gravitational force
The invented equipment attracts mosquitoes in long distance by carbon dioxide which is created by combustion of kerosene and in short distance by temperature of a landing wall which is warmed up by exhaust gas of the combustion, utilizes not only intake air flow and habit of the mosquitoes to bite but also gravitational force, then effectively and economically traps the mosquitoes which land on the mosquito landing wall. |
| US08381424B2 |
Assembly for door advertisements
An assembly for advertising on a door is disclosed. The assembly includes material having an aperture therein and having a first planar surface configured to receive an advertisement message, and a fastener comprising a loop-shaped first end contiguously connected to a T-shaped second end fastened through the aperture. The loop-shaped first end of the fastener is configured to flex around a door protrusion such as a knob, lever, or hinge. |
| US08381423B2 |
Showcase display badge
A vehicle showcase display badge is provided which includes a bezel, a substantially transparent front lens, and a rear lens comprising a light transparent front surface and a colored reflective rear surface. The badge also includes a graphic assembly disposed between the front lens and the rear lens, wherein the rear lens provides a three-dimensional appearance of the graphic assembly. The badge further includes an attachment for attaching the badge to a vehicle such that the graphic assembly is viewable. One or more curved surfaces may be employed on the rear lens to provide a shadow effect. One or more of the lenses may be overmolded. |
| US08381419B2 |
Ski boot, in particular alpine ski boot
A ski boot includes a base shell; a sole; an upper shell that has at least a fastening clip and that is articulated to the base shell with pins provided in the region of the malleoli; an inner boot, wherein the base shell defines a slot having two strips coupled one to the other with a gaiter and is provided with at least one fastening device; a first tongue joined to the base shell in the proximity of a tip thereof, the first tong being manufactured from a material of differentiated rigidities, the portion of the first tongue in the area of the free end having a lower rigidity that the portion joined to the base shell; and a removable second tongue configured to cover the first tongue and having a greater rigidity than the first tongue. |
| US08381418B2 |
Fluid-filled chambers with tether elements
A chamber may have an outer barrier and a tensile member. The barrier is formed from a polymer material that defines an interior cavity. The tensile member is located within the interior cavity and includes (a) a first layer element secured to the barrier, (b) a second layer element secured to an opposite portion of the barrier, and (c) a plurality of I-shaped tether elements that extend through the first layer element and the second layer element. In some configurations, the tether elements may include (a) a first end member located between the barrier and the first layer element, (b) a second end member located between the barrier and the second layer element, and (c) a central member extending through the first layer element and the second layer element and secured to the first end member and the second end member. |
| US08381415B1 |
Flip-flop back strap device
A flip-flop system featuring an elongated strap between about 6 to 10 inches in length; a first half snap disposed on the outer surface of the strap at the first end and a second half snap disposed on the outer surface of the strap near the first end, the first half snap can engage the second half snap by bending the first end of the strap around; and a third half snap disposed on the outer surface of the strap at the second end and a fourth half snap disposed on the outer surface of the strap near the second end, the third half snap can engage the fourth half snap by bending the second end of the strap around, the snaps function to the elongated strap to be removably attached to a flip-flop, sandal, or thong. |
| US08381409B2 |
Laser measurement of a vehicle frame
A laser measurement system operates to measure portions of a vehicle, such as a vehicle frame. The measurements are used, for example, to determine if the portions of the vehicle are bent or damaged. The measurement system includes a laser scanner and at least one target assembly that can be connected to a point of the vehicle. The laser scanner emits a laser beam that is detected by the target. Time and laser position information detected by the target are used to determine the location of the target, as well as the location of the point of the vehicle. The location of the point is then compared to an original location of the point to determine if damage has occurred. |
| US08381408B2 |
Method for determining a contour data set of spectacle frame rim
A method for determining a contour data set of a spectacle frame rim comprising the steps of: a) providing a plurality (N) of three dimensional measured points along a contour of a spectacle frame rim; b) calculating a plurality of best torus that fits P points chosen among the N measured points and where P is equal or more than 4; c) selecting the (T) points among the N measured points that deviate from one of the best torus more than a threshold value; and d) forming the contour data set with (N-T) three dimensional measured points where the T selected points of step c) are excluded from the list of three dimensional measured points of step a). |
| US08381406B2 |
Replacement blade razor
A replacement blade razor including a holder having a head portion, a razor head supported by the head portion of the holder, and a blade member removably mounted in the razor head is provided. The head portion of the holder or the razor head includes a holding mechanism that assists in mounting of the blade member in the razor head by attracting or adhering to the blade member and thus causing the razor head to hold the blade member. |
| US08381405B2 |
Electric shaver
An electric shaver including: a gripper portion to be held by the user's hand; and a head portion configured to hold a shaving-blade unit and supported to be swingable in predetermined directions with respect to the gripper portion, wherein the head portion is provided with: an edge-trimmer-blade unit configured to be switched between a ready-for-use state and a stored state by an operation element; and a engaging portion for fixing the head portion, the engaging portion configured to be engaged with the operation element when the edge-trimmer-blade unit is switched to the ready. |
| US08381404B2 |
Method manufacturing of fluid dynamic bearing using cutting tool that performs micro alternating drive
A method manufacturing of a fluid dynamic bearing includes: forming a substantially linear groove having a length corresponding to a circumferential direction width of the dynamic pressure groove formed on the inner circumferential surface of a shaft housing hole portion, along the circumferential direction of a surface orthogonal to a first processing direction along the central axis direction of a work, by a byte that performs a micro alternating drive in a second processing direction orthogonal to the first processing direction; and extending the dynamic pressure groove that extends in the first processing direction by continuously forming the substantially linear grooves in the first processing direction by displacing the relative positions of the work and the byte in the first processing direction. |
| US08381402B2 |
Fuel injector tip autofrettage process
A production robust autofrettage process for strengthening fuel injector nozzle tips includes applying a vacuum to the interior volume of the nozzle tip. Plugs are suctioned over each of the nozzle outlets. Nozzle outlets are blocked by pressing the plugs between the nozzle tip and a fixture component. The nozzle tip is then autofrettaged at least in part by pressurizing the interior volume with an autofrettage liquid. The plugs are then removed from the nozzle outlets leaving the nozzle tip strengthened with compressive residual stress, especially in the sac region of the interior volume of the nozzle tip. |
| US08381391B2 |
Method for providing a magnetic recording transducer
A method for providing a magnetic recording transducer is described. The method includes providing a pinned layer for a magnetic element. In one aspect, a portion of a tunneling barrier layer for the magnetic element is provided. The magnetic recording transducer annealed is after the portion of the tunneling barrier layer is provided. The annealing is at a temperature higher than room temperature. A remaining portion of the tunneling barrier layer is provided after the annealing. In another aspect, the magnetic transducer is transferred to a high vacuum annealing apparatus before annealing the magnetic transducer. In this aspect, the magnetic transducer may be annealed before any portion of the tunneling barrier is provided or after at least a portion of the tunneling barrier is provided. The annealing is performed in the high vacuum annealing apparatus. A free layer for the magnetic element is also provided. |
| US08381390B2 |
Method of producing hybrid cascading lubrication and cooling system for electrical machine
A hybrid cascading lubrication and cooling system (200, 400) producing method for an electrical machine (102) with nested stages is provided. The electrical machine (102) includes an inner nested stage (444) nested with respect to an outer nested stage (446). An oil pump (222) is coupled to an oil pump inlet tube (226) to draw oil from an oil sump (224), and a cooling core (230) to distribute pumped oil within the electrical machine (102). A rotor member (212) is coupled to the inner nested stage (444) and the outer nested stage (446). The rotor member (212) centrifugally pumps oil from the cooling core (230) through inner radial holes (424) and outer radial holes (436) in the rotor member (212) upon rotation about a central axis (216) of the electrical machine (102). |
| US08381388B2 |
Method for handling a stator bar using a pit
A method for handling a stator bar at a braze station including: lifting the stator bar from a platform, wherein the stator bar is in a substantially horizontal orientation on the platform; turning the stator bar from the horizontal orientation to an orientation at least 45 degrees from horizontal; aligning an upper end of the bar with a brazing station and positioning a lower end of the bar in a pit; turning the bar to reverse positions of the ends of the bar, and returning the stator bar to a horizontal orientation. |
| US08381387B2 |
Method of fabricating an ultrasonic transducer
An ultrasonic transducer fabrication method including: depositing a conductive material on an insulating layer, partially etching the conductive material to form lower electrodes; depositing an insulating material to cover the lower electrodes to form a first insulating layer and depositing a sacrificial material thereon, performing etching, to create cavities and a channel-shaped sacrificial layer to communicate the cavities; depositing an insulating material on the first insulating layer to form a second insulating layer; partially etching the second insulating layer to form holes; etching and removing the sacrificial layer through the holes to form the cavities and channels; depositing a conductive material on the second insulating layer to plug the holes and form a conductive film; partially etching the conductive film to form upper electrodes and sealing portions which plug the holes; and forming a protective film on the second insulating layer to cover the upper electrodes and the sealing portions. |
| US08381386B2 |
Method of manufacturing a boundary acoustic wave device
A method of manufacturing a boundary acoustic wave device includes the steps of forming an electrode on a first medium layer, forming a second medium layer so as to cover the electrode on the first medium layer, and forming a sound absorbing layer on an external surface of the second medium layer. The sound absorbing layer has an acoustic velocity of transverse waves that is lower than an acoustic velocity of transverse waves of the second medium layer. |
| US08381385B2 |
Shaped direct chill aluminum ingot
Method and apparatus for forming aluminum ingot having shaped ends to avoid alligatoring during rolling. |
| US08381384B2 |
Shaped direct chill aluminum ingot
Method and apparatus for forming aluminum ingot having shaped ends to avoid alligatoring during rolling. |
| US08381381B2 |
System, method and apparatus for producing fire rated doors
The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for producing fire rated doors having added strength, better finishing and low cost manufacturing flexibility. The fire rated doors are made from two panels “sandwiched” together. An optional interior layer (e.g., fire resistant material, lead sheeting, steel or Kevlar) can be added between the door panels for various purposes. Splines, stiles or sticks are inserted in longitudinal channels in the door panels to provide assistance in aligning the door panels and greater hardware holding strength. An intumescent banding material concealed by a banding material around the perimeter of the door seals the door within its frame during a fire. The door design and the automated manufacturing process provide greater design choice, reduced cost and faster fabrication. |
| US08381377B1 |
Bridge system for string instruments
A bridge system for a string instrument includes a plate that is bonded to a string instrument soundboard. The plate has a plurality of first holes for respectively receiving a string ball end. A bridge box is attached to the underside of the plate. The bridge box has a bottom plate with a plurality of second holes aligned with third holes within the plate for accommodating a string ball end entrapper. The entrapper entraps the string ball end within the bridge system. |
| US08381375B2 |
Method for controlling the local characteristics of a non-woven textile and related installation
A crosslapper receives a card web and folds it into a lap intended to be needle-punched or consolidated by other ways. The web includes zones which are more condensed, having a spectrum of orientation of fibers with a component parallel to the width of the web, alternating with less condensed zones having a longitudinal unidirectional spectrum of orientations. The zones which are less condensed are used to form the edge zones of the lap. The result is that the lap has different respective spectra of orientation which pre-compensate for the unwanted changes produced by the needle-punching or other consolidation which follows. A needle-punched lap is obtained having a uniform MD/CD ratio (relationship between longitudinal and respectively transverse tensile strengths) or having a sought profile of the MD/CD ratio across the width of the lap. |
| US08381374B2 |
Shower curtain fastener with integral hook
A shower curtain fastener includes a body portion adapted to couple to a shower curtain rod and a shower curtain. A hook portion formed integrally with the body portion includes a first segment extending substantially vertically downward from the bottom section of the body portion and a second segment extending outwardly to receive items apart from the shower curtain. |
| US08381373B2 |
Housing for a dual release twin buckle assembly
A housing assembly for twin latching mechanisms. The housing assembly includes two handles that can be pivoted to separately unlatch two belt connectors. The latching mechanisms are positioned within the housing such that when the handles are pivoted upwardly, their leading edges engage plunger mechanisms associated with the latching mechanisms. By engaging the plunger mechanisms, individual latches are disengaged and the associated belt connectors are ejected. A flange interconnects the two handles such that one or both handles are pivoted depending upon which handle is lifted by the operator. The housing provides a secure enclosure for the latch mechanisms and also shields the working components from the environment. |
| US08381371B2 |
Clip fixing assembly for fixing a fitting to a thin wall provided with openings
The description relates to a clip fastening for fastening fitting parts such as locks, hinges, grips and/or for fastening thin-walled structural component parts provided with an opening to a thin wall, such as a sheet-metal cabinet door, provided with an opening or openings, comprising a head part with a flange which overlaps the outer rim or edge of the opening after assembly, and a body part which proceeds from the head part and extends through the opening after assembly, a substantially U-shaped spring being held at the end of the body part and supported by its leg ends on the inner edge of the opening. According to the invention, the spring is a flat structural component part with U-legs that are cut off or shaped at the free end substantially at right angles to the running direction of the U-leg in such a way that they are supported on the rim or edge of the opening after assembly at a slight inclination to the plane of the thin wall. |
| US08381369B2 |
Roller zipper slide
A roller zipper slide includes a slide body having a longitudinal slot on a top slide body block in communication with an internal chamber thereof and two coupling grooves located at two opposite lateral sides of the longitudinal slot. The roller zipper slide further includes a roller pivotally having two pivot pins respectively pivotally coupled to the coupling grooves and a bottom side thereof projecting into the internal chamber of the slide body right above the engaging position between the left and right series of teen of the zip fastener, thereby improving sliding mobility, reducing zipper teeth wear and prolonging zipper slide lifespan. |
| US08381368B2 |
Vehicle clip centering device and method
A centering clip device can include a clip base having an opening for receiving a clip. The clip base can have a top surface that has a first bump, a second bump and a third bump all spaced away from each other. A clip can be included that has a substantially elongated body, a bottom flange formed on a bottom end of the clip, a top flange, an annular slot formed between the top flange and the bottom flange, and an umbrella structure. The top flange may also be formed as an umbrella structure having an inclined camming surface formed on its lower surface. The clip base can be configured to releasably engage the clip within the clip base. The camming surface can be biased against the first, second and third bumps to center the clip within the clip base, and permit connection between a first vehicle component, such as a roofliner, to a second vehicle component, such as a roof frame. |
| US08381364B2 |
Wedge and socket assembly
A socket and wedge assembly that securely holds wire rope and is easy to release includes a collapsible wedge. The wedge collapses at the front, narrowed end to utilize the high pressures at the front end of the wedge in effecting the collapse and releasing the rope. The wedge includes a movable element that pivots and/or translates to facilitate a quick and reliable collapse of the wedge and release of the wire rope. The wedge includes a cavity to at least partially exhaust the fumes created from cutting the support with a torch for release of the wire rope. |
| US08381362B2 |
Reel based closure system
Disclosed is a closure system used in combination in any of a variety of applications including clothing, for example as a footwear lacing system comprising a lace attached to a tightening mechanism. The lace extends through a series of guide members positioned along two opposing footwear closure portions. The lace and guides preferably have low friction surfaces to facilitate sliding of the lace along the guide members so that the lace evenly distributes tension across the footwear member. The tightening mechanism allows incremental adjustment of the tension of the lace. The closure system allows a user to quickly loosen the lace and inhibits unintentional and/or accidental loosing of the lace. |
| US08381361B2 |
Holding system for a line assembly
A holding system for fixing a line assembly includes a fixing band, and a fixing band retaining element, which is arranged on the line assembly and comprises at least one guiding element for receiving the fixing band, the fixing band retaining element comprising two ends, one end being provided with at least one or more cavities or recesses, into which the other end can be plugged or hooked. |
| US08381358B1 |
Universal handle
A universal handle which can quickly and easily be attached to substantially any desired article and which is ergonomically designed to be comfortable to carry and which fold into itself for convenient storage when not in use. |
| US08381357B2 |
Door hinge, in particular edge hinge
A door hinge, in particular an edge hinge, which has door-mounted support and a support mounted on a door frame, both of which are designed such that they can be swiveled relative to each other around a common rotational axis. To suggest a new type of door hinge, in particular an edge hinge which allows a simplified handling, the invention suggests a door hinge, in particular en edge hinge, with a door support to be arranged on a door and a frame support to be arranged on a door frame, both of which are designed to be arranged around a common rotational axis such that they can be swiveled relative to each other, wherein the door support and the frame support are designed to be of equal construction and equally usable for left and right doors. |
| US08381355B2 |
Adjustable hinge
An adjustable hinge is disclosed, which comprises: a) two hinge bodies for attachment, respectively, to a window or door frame and a window or door leaf; b) a rotating pin suitable for mutually articulating the hinge bodies; and c) a member for adjusting shared positions of the hinge bodies in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis of the pin. The adjustment member includes a sleeve, associated axially with the pin, which defines an external lateral coupling surface with a corresponding housing defined in a first of the hinge bodies. The sleeve is pivotally engaged with the housing such that, while remaining in relatively continuous contact with the walls of the cavity during rotation to change its position, it may occupy substantially any position required along a limited length in the perpendicular adjustment direction. A reversible locking member is also provided for locking the sleeve in selected positions it occupies inside the housing upon application of a thrusting force in a defined or selected locking direction. The sleeve has at least three distinct points of contact with the walls of the housing spaced angularly relative to one another. When the locking member is engaged, at at least two of the distinct points a thrusting force is exerted, in directions incident to one another, on respective points of the walls so as to accommodate for slack upon coupling of the sleeve and housing in directions generally incident to one another. |
| US08381352B2 |
Extraction with temporary suction interrupt
An extractor has a duct door moveably mounted to a working air conduit for movement between a first position at which normal suction at a suction nozzle is reduced and a second position at which normal suction at the suction nozzle is unreduced. An actuator is connected to the duct door for selectively moving the duct door between the first position and second position. In one embodiment, a suction leak hole is formed within the working air conduit and the duct door is moveable with respect to the leek hole to selectively fluidly open and close the leak hole. In another embodiment, the duct door is moveable within the working air conduit to selectively fluidly restrict the working air flow in the working air conduit and the actuator selectively moves the duct door between the first and second positions. The suction reduction selectively increases the cleaning solution dwell time. |
| US08381349B2 |
Windshield wiper blade assembly
A windshield wiper blade assembly comprises: a middle housing having a middle frame segment that defines an accommodating recess; an elastic wiper blade; and a bridging member fitted in the accommodating recess. The bridging member has two end parts, a middle part and a pivot part. The pivot part protrudes upwardly from a top wall of the middle part. Each of the end parts has a top edge extending upwardly from the top wall so as to cooperate with the pivot part to define an extension recess. At least one of the end parts engages the middle frame segment in a tongue-and-groove engaging manner and at least one of the end, parts and the middle part engages the middle frame segment in a snap-fit engaging manner. |
| US08381347B2 |
Vacuum attachment for the collection of liquids
The invention provides a wet vacuum attachment, connecting to a hose of a commercially available vacuum cleaner that separates a liquid from a suction airstream created by the vacuum, so that the liquid does not enter the vacuum cleaner intake hose. The attachment can be manufactured as a single-part, having a suction port where the vacuum hose is attached, a suction passage to communicate with a reservoir in a region of low velocity for the separation and storage of the collected liquid, an inlet nozzle to increase the airstream velocity and to engage the working surface. In an additional embodiment, a filter media is inserted into a filter housing located in the region of low velocity between the suction passage and the reservoir to further prevent liquid from entering the vacuum hose. |
| US08381345B2 |
Devices for cleaning endotracheal tubes
Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for the cleaning of an endotracheal tube while a patient is being supported by a ventilator connected to the endotracheal tube. According to some embodiments, a mechanically-actuated non-inflatable cleaning device for scraping debris (e.g., biofilm) from an interior wall of an endotracheal tube is provided. In one embodiment, the cleaning device comprises an elongated member having a proximal end and a distal end and a mechanically-expandable scaffold positioned along the distal end of the elongated member. In one embodiment, the mechanically-expandable scaffold comprises one or more removal members configured to engage an interior surface of an endotracheal tube when the scaffold is in a radially-expanded position and to remove debris from the interior surface of the endotracheal tube when the device is withdrawn from the endotracheal tube. |
| US08381344B1 |
Hard water deposit removal system
A motorized deposit removal system with a pivoting rotary head has a generally rigid tubular housing with a power source located on a first end. The power source has a speed control unit. The system has a drive assembly with a drive cable and a cable housing located within the tubular housing. The power source rotates the drive cable freely inside the cable housing. The system has a hollow pivoting member located on a tubular housing second end. The pivoting member is able to be fixed at a specific angle. A rotary head attaching member is located on the pivoting member. The head attaching member is operatively attached to the drive cable. The drive assembly passes through the hollow pivoting member. The drive assembly is flexible for allowing for pivoting of the pivoting member. The system has a head attachment located on the head attaching member. |
| US08381342B2 |
Washing machine spray device and method
A washing machine includes a cabinet, a tub positioned within the cabinet, a basket rotatably supported within the tub, and a spray device mounted within the cabinet and positioned to introduce water into the basket. The spray device sprays an initial amount of water onto a wash load received in the basket. The rotatable basket is rotated to redistribute the wash load radially outwardly in the basket. The wash load within the basket is washed after the rotatable basket is rotated to redistribute the wash load. |
| US08381341B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining load size in a washing machine
A method and apparatus according to one embodiment for determining laundry load size in an automatic clothes washer includes supplying water to predetermined water levels higher than a saturate water level and determining the amount of water supplied to reach each predetermined water level from a prior water level, and determining a load size based on the determined amount of water supplied between the current predetermined water level and the prior water level. |
| US08381340B2 |
Pulling tool
A multi-function tool having a handle portion and a plurality of structures operable therewith for the performance of a plurality of functions. The multi-function tool allows fast and convenient transition between any of the plurality of functions in order to enable completion of jobs or tasks requiring such functions without acquisition, storage, and/or maintenance of a plurality of specialized tools. |
| US08381339B2 |
Combat/survival knife with ejectable, self-contained gear compartment
A fixed blade knife that is intended for survival or tactical use is provided with a removable, ejectable, self contained compartment for the storage and carriage of survival and/or tactical gear within the handle of the knife. A self contained, removable compartment is superior to a separate butt cap for the handle as a butt cap requires the use of two functioning hands for removal, is not as fast as an ejectable compartment and can be lost rendering the handle useless for the storage and carriage of gear. The self contained compartment eliminates the necessity for a butt-cap, can be ejected quickly with a single digit that may or not be otherwise useless due to injury or environmental conditions. The compartment also serves to contain the gear there-in separate from the knife handle to prevent loss and allow use of said gear by a second individual while the knife itself may be in use by the primary user. |
| US08381338B1 |
Sheet metal working tool
A sheet metal working tool has a shaft with a first end and a second end, a striking tool attached to the first end of the shaft, and an opener attached to the second end of the shaft. The opener includes a flat plate with a first end and a second end and a C-shaped structure having a first-end and a second end, the first end of the flat plate and the first end of the C-shaped structure joined together with the second end of the plate spaced from the second end of the C-shaped structure. |
| US08381333B2 |
Mattress supported co-sleeping baby bedside methods and apparatus
To accommodate safe, convenient, and effective sleeping arrangements perhaps with mothers and babies, the present invention entails a co-sleeping apparatus and methods having a simple support which may be affixed by friction in a bed and uses a cantilever design to support various forms of baby, pet, and doll baskets (or other sleeping receptacles of choice) at close proximity and convenient locations near a resting parent. This simple cantilever design may provide three important advantages: an immediate arms' reach access to an infant without ever having to leave a bed; interference free design perhaps with no floor supports or bulky stands; and an extremely simple method for single-handed mounting, adjusting, and dismounting of an infant, pet, and doll sleeping receptacle and the like. Embodiments may provide stowing the apparatus in a virtually disappearing condition and the apparatus may be easily disassembled or even folded linearly for convenient long term storage. |
| US08381331B2 |
Patient-rotation system with center-of-gravity assembly
A system for turning a person from a supine position to a prone position and vice versa includes opposing patient support platens each coupled to a corresponding end of a first and a second COG assembly, the first and second COG assemblies each coupled to a corresponding one of a pair of spindles, each one of the spindles disposed on a corresponding lift column. Embodiments described herein provide for an axis of rotation that is adjustable with respect to the plane of either an upper or lower support platen. Embodiments provide for adjusting the separation distance between the axis of rotation and the center of gravity defined by the combination of the person and the supporting platens. |
| US08381326B2 |
Steam bath and resistance system employed
A Steam Bath And Steam Generating Unit has a steam generating unit comprised of a housing, a module or system comprised of stainless steel plates affixed inside said housing, two electric poles that supply the module with 120 volts or 240 volts making it possible for the water delivered by the a water regulator in the form of drops to make contact with the plates, where steam is generated and goes out from the steam generating unit through at least one steam outlet. Said steam generating unit also has a water level regulator inside the steam generator and a manual drainage that allows draining the water held in the interior of the steam generator every time it is used. |
| US08381325B2 |
Modular pool system
A modular pool system including a plurality of pivotally connected panels disposed side end to side end defining an enclosed pool perimeter wall. The panels are pivotable with respect to each other to form a pool perimeter wall configuration. A pool liner is secured to the pool perimeter wall for retaining water within the pool perimeter wall. |
| US08381321B2 |
Toilet apparatus
A toilet apparatus includes a bowl cleaning unit for mixing a detergent that removes dirt on the inner walls of the bowl with cleaning water which is to be flushed into the bowl. The detergent is stored in a detergent tank which is provided inside a housing forming the outer shell of the toilet apparatus, and is supplied to the water supply channel of the cleaning water from the detergent tank through a detergent supply unit. The detergent tank is accommodated in an internal space of the housing and is concealed inside the housing behind a detachable cover which constitutes a portion of the outer walls of the housing. |
| US08381319B2 |
Cooling system with a cover which contains super absorber and can be activated
The invention refers to a cover, comprising a fleece arranged between a top and a bottom layer which holds a super absorber. At least in one layer a permeability area which is permeable to moisture is provided through which the cover can be moistened in a controlled way. |
| US08381318B2 |
Adapter for protective helmets
An adapter for mounting equipment (4) such as lamps and headsets onto protective helmets includes a base (1) fastened detachably onto the protective helmet, and a holder (2) with variable securing parts (3) that snaps detachably into the base (1). The base (1) features a snap-and-detent mechanism (1.1), has an external shape adapted to the type of protective helmet and is fastened detachably onto the protective helmet. The holder (2) features a snap-and-detent element (2.5) designed as corresponding counter piece to the snap-and-detent mechanism (1.1) of the base (1). The variable securing parts (3) are flat silicone straps where at least two securing parts (3) can be threaded into the holder (2), an insertable piece of equipment (4) can be fastened separately, flexibly and detachably by wrapping the two securing parts (3) around the equipment (4) and anchoring them onto the holder (2), and the snap-and-detent element (2.5) of the equipped holder (2) snaps into the snap-and-detent mechanism (1.1) of the base (1) and, when in the base (1), is incrementally rotatable and detainable around the axis of the snap-and-detent element (2.5). |
| US08381316B2 |
Head apparel
Described is head apparel for restraining the head of a wearer. The head apparel includes headwear having an outer surface and an opening that exposes an interior surface configured to receive the head of the wearer. The headwear also includes a restraining device attached to the outer surface of the headwear. The restraining device has a first state in which a length of the restraining device extends from the headwear and is configured to engage a stationary object to restrain the head against the stationary object. The restraining device has a second state in which the length of the restraining device is substantially secured to the headwear. |
| US08381313B2 |
Finger guard system
A finger guard system may include a finger guard adapted to be worn on a finger of a user, and a thumb guard adapted to be worn on a thumb of the user. The finger guard may include a substantially tubular finger guard main body having a top, a bottom, an upper portion, a lower portion, and a medial portion including a bend so that the upper portion is angled with respect to the lower portion. The finger guard may also include a longitudinal slit that extends along the bottom of the finger guard main body from the upper portion thereof to the lower portion thereof. The thumb guard has a substantially tubular thumb guard main body having a top, a bottom, an upper portion, a lower portion, and a medial portion that includes a bend so that the upper portion is angled with respect to the lower portion. A longitudinal slit may formed through the thumb guard main body on the bottom and extending the entire length of the bottom. |
| US08381312B2 |
Welding mask
A welding mask including a mask body for covering an entire face of a wearer having an opening portion corresponding to eyes of the wearer thereof; a rotatable cover rotationally coupled to a front of the mask body upward and downward; a shading filter mounted on the rotatable cover so as to shade a light generated during welding operation thereof; an elastic coupling means for rotationally coupling the rotatable cover to both side surfaces of the mask body upward; and a fixing means for fixing the rotatable cover or releasing a fixing status thereof formed at one side of the mask body. In addition, a window is further formed at the rear portion of the rotatable cover having the shading filter, thereby improving operation efficiency. |
| US08387161B2 |
Scanning probe microscope
An elongate probe (50) for use in probe microscopy comprises a module (51) provided between a probe tip (53) and a driver (52). In use the driver (52) applies oscillations to the module (51) which are transmitted by the module to the tip (53). With the probe tip (53) positioned close to the surface of a sample, any phase variance in the oscillation of the tip with respect to the driving oscillation is representative of an interaction between the tip and the sample surface. The elongate arrangement of the probe (50) is particularly beneficial when used to probe samples which require a liquid environment. |
| US08387160B2 |
Scanning probe-based lithography method
A resist medium in which features are lithographically produced by scanning a surface of the medium with an AFM probe positioned in contact therewith. The resist medium comprises a substrate; and a polymer resist layer within which features are produced by mechanical action of the probe. The polymer contains thermally reversible crosslinkages. Also disclosed are methods that generally includes scanning a surface of the polymer resist layer with an AFM probe positioned in contact with the resist layer, wherein heating the probe and a squashing-type mechanical action of the probe produces features in the layer by thermally reversing the crosslinkages. |
| US08387155B2 |
System for managing access to protected computer resources
A system for controlling access to protected computer resources provided via a network utilizing at least one Internet Protocol. The system includes at least one authentication server and at least one access server. The at least one authentication server is adapted to authenticate identity data associated with at least one client computer device, is adapted to authorize the at least one client computer device to receive at least a portion of protected computer resources, and is adapted to permit access to the at least a portion of the protected computer resources. The at least one access server is adapted to receive the identity data associated with the at least one client computer device and forward the identity data associated with the at least one claim computer device to the at least one authentication server. |
| US08387153B2 |
Communication arrangement
The present invention relates to a method, node and system for efficient handling of sharing a set of data and in particular where the data set is shared in a volatile manner. Each node with access to the data set sharing group controls the access of data set from the node and each node stores data set received from other nodes in the group in a volatile manner providing removal of data set received from a node that has left the sharing group. |
| US08387147B2 |
Method and system for detecting and removing hidden pestware files
A method and system for detecting and removing a hidden pestware file is described. One illustrative embodiment detects, using direct drive access, a file on a computer storage device; determines whether the file is also detectable by the operating system by attempting to access the file using a standard file Application-Program-Interface (API) function call of the operating system; identifies the file as a potential hidden pestware file, when the file is undetectable by the operating system; confirms through an automated pestware-signature scan of the potential hidden pestware file that the potential hidden pestware file is a hidden pestware file; and removes automatically, using direct drive access, the hidden pestware file from the storage device. |
| US08387144B2 |
Network amplification attack mitigation
An improved network protocol for mitigating network amplification attacks is provided. The absolute network load that any transient distributed attack can cause is bounded based on a resource crediting scheme. The protocol accumulates “credit” upon reception and detection of candidate attack request packets, and draws against that credit when transmitting responsive packets. In some implementations, the time frame of such an attack is also bounded using time limits applied to a resource crediting scheme. Other resources may also be bounded by the resource crediting scheme, including without limitation CPU utilization, storage capacity, power, etc. |
| US08387140B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling access to encrypted network communication channels
An apparatus and method are described for performing content filtering of encrypted network transactions. For example, in one embodiment, for an encrypted Internet transaction (such as an HTTPS transaction), a local cache lookup is performed using the network address of the requested Internet transaction to determine if name resolution data associated with the transaction is stored in a name resolution data cache. If name resolution data associated with the transaction is stored in the name resolution data cache, then the name resolution data is compared with a whitelist of acceptable Internet names. The requested Internet transaction is allowed only if a match is found between the name resolution data and one of the Internet names on the whitelist. |
| US08387134B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method of controlling authentication process
According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes a main body, an authentication unit which performs an authentication process, upon power-on of the main body, if authentication information is registered in the main body, the authentication process including a process to authenticate a user based on authentication information input by the user and the authentication information registered in the main body, and a forced-registration unit which performs a forced-registration process to request the user to register new authentication information and inhibit the main body from operating until the new authentication information is registered, upon power-on of the main body. |
| US08387133B2 |
Power on certification method for personal computer and power on certification system thereof
A power on certification method for a personal computer (PC) and a power on certification system thereof are described. The power on method includes the following steps. At least one booting certification device is connected to a PC. The PC is booted, and a basic input output system (BIOS) is run. The BIOS is made to retrieve recognition information of the booting certification device through a verification procedure, so as to judge whether the recognition information is consistent with verification information stored in the PC. After the booting certification device passes through the verification procedure, the PC completes other procedures in the BIOS, and enters an operating system. |
| US08387132B2 |
Information packet communication with virtual objects
Modules and methods that provide virtual device communication via information packets addressed to the virtual devices. Virtual devices aggregate capabilities of target devices and represent the aggregate as an operational device to remote systems. Physical device elements and virtual devices contained within modules are able to communicate and cooperate over extended distances in a peer-to-peer fashion via a virtual bus tunnel offering addressing and data transport functionality. Such modules and methods can be combined with disk drives to form RAID-like storage structures. |
| US08387131B2 |
Enforcing secure internet connections for a mobile endpoint computing device
Methods and apparatus enforce a secure internet connection from a mobiles endpoint computing device. A security policy for the endpoint is defined based on its location. From that location, an internet connection is established and detected. This event triggers the launching of a full VPN tunnel connection including an NDIS firewall forcing packet traffic through a port of the endpoint computing device assigned by the security policy and/or MAC/IP addresses of a VPN concentrator. Thereafter, the packet traffic is monitored for compliance with the security policy. This includes determining whether packet traffic over the assigned port is observed within a given time or packet traffic is attempted over other ports. Monitoring occurs whether or not the protocol of the VPN tunnel connection is known. Other features contemplate quarantining for improper operation of the VPN tunnel, undertaking remediation, and computer program products, to name a few. |
| US08387125B2 |
Device, system and method of performing an administrative operation on a security token
Some demonstrative embodiments of the invention include a method, device and/or system of performing an administrative operation on a user token. The method may include, for example, providing to an admin token user-identification data identifying the user token; receiving from the admin token an administrator code to enable performing the administrative operation; and providing the administrator code to the user token. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08387123B2 |
Authentication system, image forming apparatus, and authentication server
An authentication system includes an authentication information input device to which a user inputs authentication information, an authentication server, and at least one image forming apparatus, all connected via a network. The authentication server acquires the authentication information input via the authentication information input device and performs user authentication based on the authentication information. The authentication server includes a transmitter to transmit a result of the user authentication indicating whether or not the user authentication is successful and information of the user identified by the authentication information to at least one of the image forming apparatuses. The image forming apparatus includes a receiver to receive the result of the user authentication and the user information transmitted from the authentication server, and an apparatus controller to switch the image forming apparatus from an unusable state to a usable state according to the result of the user authentication and the user information. |
| US08387119B2 |
Secure application network
Systems and methods are provided for a secure application network according to one or more embodiments. In one embodiment, a system for a secure application network comprises a service provider server adapted to interact with an application development server and a client device over a network, wherein the service provider server is adapted to implement the secure application network system. The system also comprises one or more processors and one or more memories adapted to store a plurality of machine-readable instructions which when executed by the one or more processors are adapted to cause the secure application network system to: maintain a plurality of records associated with at least one application developer using the application development server; authenticate the at least one application developer based on the plurality of records; and enable the at least one authenticated application developer to create and/or deploy one or more applications operable on the client device to be downloaded by a user of the client device from the secure application network system. |
| US08387117B2 |
Context-aware role-based access control system and control method thereof
A context-aware role-based access control system and a control method thereof. The context-aware role-based access control system includes: a context-aware user assignment manager (CAUAM) for performing a role assignment function, a role delegation function, or a role revocation function for a user according to a context of the user, based on a preset context request condition; a context-aware permission assignment manager (CAPAM) for performing a permission modification, a permission restoration, and a personalized permission modification for a permission, which the role has, according to changes in the context of the user; an information repository for storing a user profile and context information; and an access control manager (ACM) for controlling the context-aware user assignment manager, the context-aware permission assignment manager, and the information repository, and processing an access control request. Accordingly, more efficient access control can be achieved in ubiquitous environments where the context of the user dynamically changes. |
| US08387110B1 |
Method, system and computer program product for tagging content on uncontrolled web application
In some embodiments, communications in a private network are programmatically inspected to identify traffic associated with uncontrolled Web applications originating from outside of the private network. Unstructured data, including messages and application content, originating from such uncontrolled Web Applications may be disassembled, analyzed, and categorized into source specific application element types (AETs). A monitoring layer may be injected on a page associated with the uncontrolled Web Application to allow a user to switch between different modes. Activities associated with different modes may be handled differently utilizing AETs. Example modes may include personal, professional, etc. The monitoring layer provides an entity operating a private network with the ability to distinguish different types of user activities associated with accessing uncontrolled Web applications, allowing the entity to isolate those activities and contents that should be monitored and process them according to internal policies and/or business rules. |
| US08387105B1 |
Method and a system for transmitting video streams
A system and a method for facilitating transitions between video streams is provided. The method includes the steps of: (i) receiving a primary video stream that includes a first primary video stream portion and a second primary video stream portion, wherein the second stream portion follows the first primary video stream portion; (ii) receiving a secondary video stream; processing at least one of the primary video stream and the secondary video stream to facilitate a seamless transition, at a multiple tuner device, between the first primary video stream portion and the secondary video stream; (iii) transmitting the primary video stream to a first tuner of the multiple tuner device; (iv) transmitting the secondary video stream to a second tuner of the multiple tuner device; and (v) instructing the multiple tuner device to perform a seamless transition between the first primary video stream portion to the secondary video stream. |
| US08387104B2 |
Method and a device for the efficient transmission of program and service data for national and regional broadcast
A method and a device for transmitting a transport stream according to a digital television-transmission standard for stationary and/or mobile receivers with program and service data for a national and a regional broadcast determines the transmission capacity in the transport stream provided in each case for the national and the regional broadcast through a first multiplexer within a centrally positioned headend. The first multiplexer then fills the transport stream with program and service data for national broadcast within the transmission capacity of the transport stream provided for the broadcast and marks the transmission capacity provided within the transport stream for the regional broadcast. Second multiplexers provided in the regional headends and/or in the regional transmitters in each case fill the marked transmission capacity of the transport stream, transmitted in each case from the central headend to several regionally positioned headends and/or regionally positioned transmitters, with program and service data for regional broadcast. |
| US08387101B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing service and method and apparatus for performing communication
A method and apparatus for providing an interactive service and a method and apparatus for performing communication are provided. An Open Cable Application Platform (OCAP) application may be directly executed in at least one broadcasting receiving apparatus by determining whether an application for providing the interactive service is independently executable using middleware installed in the broadcasting receiving apparatus and selectively requesting a set-top box to provide data needed for executing the application based on the determination result. |
| US08387099B2 |
System for acceleration of web page delivery
A method comprising running a web browser on one or more servers of a service center, and hosting files for a web page on a storage unit associated with the one or more servers. Upon receiving user input from a client device to the web browser at the service center, streaming interactive video web page is transmitted to the client device with substantially no detectable latency. |
| US08387098B2 |
AV content view system
In video/audio information such as a movie in a mobile terminal connected to a terminal of a seat terminal for a mobile terminal, the video is converted into video data and transmitted to a seat terminal of a front seat via a transmission path. The video data are decoded by a video decoder of the seat terminal of the front seat and displayed on a video display section. Furthermore, audio is listened to by a user via a headphone of the user's own seat. |
| US08387097B2 |
Digital broadcasting system and method of processing data in the digital broadcasting system
A digital broadcasting system and a data processing method are disclosed. A receiving system of the digital broadcasting system includes a baseband processor, a table handler, a FLUTE handler, and a display module. The baseband processor receives a broadcast signal including mobile service data and main service data. Herein, the mobile service data may configure an RS frame. And, the RS frame may include mobile service data, file data, and a table having at least one channel configuration information on the mobile service data and estimated download time for the file data described therein. The table handler parses the table from the RS frame, thereby extracting and outputting at least one channel configuration information on the mobile service data and estimated download time information of the file data. The FLUTE handler parses the file data from the RS frame and storing the parsed data. And, the display module receives the estimated download time for the file data parsed by the FLUTE handler from the table handler, thereby displaying the estimated download time on a portion of a display screen. |
| US08387093B2 |
Media recommendations based on negative feedback
A media recommendation system gathers negative user feedback associated with media content. Based on the gathered feedback, the media recommendation system extracts a list of recommended media content from program data describing available media content. |
| US08387089B1 |
Systems and methods for providing a scan
Systems and methods for a video scan are provided. The scan may be dynamically interactive and a function of characteristics of the programs in the scan (e.g., commercial breaks or the end of a program approaching) The scan may simultaneously display multiple scan windows for a plurality of programs, for example in a scan wizard. The scan wizard allows the user to simultaneously view a scan window and an information panel, select criteria for the scan from a criteria panel, and control the scan using a scan control panel. The scan may allow the user to record a program displayed in the scan without interrupting the scan (e.g., by using an additional tuner). The scan may display, within the scan interface, trick-play functions for appropriate scanned programs (e.g., recorded, cached and on-demand programs). The user may select and perform trick-play functions for a scanned program without exiting the scan mode. |
| US08387087B2 |
System and method for applying a database to video multimedia
A system and method for applying a database to video multimedia is disclosed. Certain embodiments provide media content owners the capability to exploit video processing capabilities using rich, interactive and compelling visual content on a network. Mechanisms of associating video with commerce offerings are provided. Video server and search server technologies are integrated with ad serving personalization agents to make the final presentations of content and advertising. Algorithms utilized by the system use a variety of techniques for making the final presentation decisions of which ads, with which content, are served to which user. |
| US08387083B1 |
Monitoring media content channels
Monitoring one or more media content channels is disclosed. Monitoring includes receiving one or more search criteria associated with desired media content, receiving channel data associated with media content being broadcast via a channel, detecting a match between at least one of the search criteria and the channel data, and providing a notification of the detected match. |
| US08387082B2 |
Enhanced voice-rich input for interactive programming
A method may provide an interactive video program to a user, receive, by a video client, audio data from a microphone based on the user's interactive speech during the interactive video program, and send, by the video client, the audio data to another device to verify at least one of that the audio data corresponds to the user or that the user completes the interactive video program. |
| US08387080B2 |
Optical pickup apparatus having a heatsink for dissipating heat generated by a laser diode
An optical pickup apparatus comprising: a housing configured to include an optical component including a laser diode emitting a laser beam, the housing being made of metal; and a heatsink configured to dissipate heat generated from the laser diode, the heatsink being made of metal different from the metal of the housing; the heatsink being fixed to the housing with one screw and adhesive. |
| US08387078B2 |
Determining the context of a computing device that is powered off
In some embodiments a remote request is received relating to a context of a computer after the computer has been powered off. A sensor of the computer is turned on to obtain context information of the computer from the sensor. The obtained context information is provided from the computer to a remote device while the computer is still powered off. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08387072B1 |
Transactional environments for event and data binding handlers
Disclosed are apparatus and methods for executing software applications with an actual environment. Handlers for a software application are registered. Each handler can be executed upon receiving an indication of a triggering event. A determination is made that a triggering event for the software application has occurred. In response to the triggering event: a handler environment for the triggering event is determined based on the actual environment, triggered handlers of the registered handlers are determined to be executed, at least a respective portion of the handler environment is made available to each triggered handler, executing the triggered handlers, where at least one triggered handler updates its respective portion of the handler environment during execution, determining an updated-handler environment based on the handler environment and the portions of the handler environments after execution of the triggered handlers, and updating the actual environment based on the updated-handler environment. |
| US08387071B2 |
Controlling integrated circuits including remote activation or deactivation
Techniques are generally described for transitioning a Finite State Machine (FSM) of an integrated circuit from a first state to a second state or a replicated variant of the second state in lieu of the second state, and out of the replicated variant of the second state, using a robust physically unclonable function (PUF), an event generator and a control block of the IC. In various embodiments, the techniques leverage on manufacturing variability of the IC. In various embodiments, the techniques are employed to control activation or deactivation of the IC. Other embodiments may be disclosed and claimed. |
| US08387068B2 |
Method and device for managing object instance label
A method and device for managing an object instance label relate to network management technologies, and can implement uniform configuration for instances under different customer premises equipments (CPEs). The method for associating an object instance label includes: receiving a message for associating an object instance label, where the message includes an object instance and a corresponding label; and associating the label with the object instance according to the message, where the label is used to identify the object instance. The present invention is applicable to batch configuration for instances under different CPEs. |
| US08387067B2 |
Method for tracking and/or verifying message passing in a simulation environment
A message tracking and verifying system for verifying the correctness of messages being passed may comprise a tracking module for tracking a request message and a verifying module for verifying a response message. The tracking module may be configured to store a calculated source address and a calculated response address range. The verifying module may be configured to obtain an actual source address from the response message and an actual response address range for the response message. The correctness of the response message is determined based on the comparison of the calculated source address with the actual source address and the comparison of the calculated response address range with the actual response address range. |
| US08387058B2 |
Minimizing complex decisions to allocate additional resources to a job submitted to a grid environment
At least one decision to allocate additional resources to at least one previously submitted job is stored in a decision cache, wherein said the least one decision is stored according to at least one characteristic of the at least one previously submitted job. When another job is submitted to the grid environment needs additional resources, the characteristic of the currently submitted job is compared with the characteristics of previous submitted jobs. If there is a match, then the previously made decision associated with the matching characteristic controls allocation of additional resources for the currently submitted job, such that complex decision making for allocation of additional resources is minimized by reusing previously stored decisions to allocate additional resources. |
| US08387056B2 |
Method for dynamically enabling the expansion of a computer operating system
A method for scheduling tasks in a computer operating system comprises a background task creating at least one registered service. The background task provides an execution presence and a data present to a registered service and ranks the registered services according to the requirements of each registered service. The background task also allocates an execution presence and a data presence according to each of the registered services such that each of the registered services is given an opportunity to be scheduled in the dedicated pre-assigned time slice. |
| US08387055B1 |
System and method for providing information and associating information
A system and method builds a set of information by providing information related to each object of a first type surrounded with a pair of identifiers. Information related to objects of a second type is provided with an embedded identifier. Information received from a server is associated with one or more first objects by locating a pair of identifiers in the information and associating the information with one or more objects corresponding to the pair of identifiers. |
| US08387049B2 |
Facilitating processing within computing environments supporting pageable guests
Processing within a computing environment that supports pageable guests is facilitated. Processing is facilitated in many ways, including, but not limited to, associating guest and host state information with guest blocks of storage; maintaining the state information in control blocks in host memory; enabling the changing of states; and using the state information in management decisions. In one particular example, the guest state includes an indication of usefulness and importance of memory contents to the guest, and the host state reflects the ease of access to memory contents. The host and guest state information is used in managing memory of the host and/or guests. |
| US08387048B1 |
Seamless integration, migration and installation of non-native application into native operating system
A method, system and computer program product migrating non-native applications include launching a first Virtual Machine (VM) and a first original guest OS in the VM, on a computing system that has the host OS and a host desktop, wherein the first VM has a non-native application associated with the first VM and the first original guest OS; replacing the first original guest operating system (OS) system in the first VM with a different version of the guest OS; upon a user attempting to launch the non-native application, migrating the non-native application in the first VM to the second VM; launching a second Virtual Machine (VM) and a second original guest OS in the VM, on the computing system; associating the non-native application with the second VM; launching the non-native application inside the second VM; and displaying a non-native application window to the user. |
| US08387047B1 |
Method of virtualizing file extensions in a computer system by determining an association between applications in virtual environment and a file extension
A system and method for virtualizing file extensions. The system includes a system environment, one or more virtual environments, and a shell extension. The shell extension detects a request to perform an action on a file in the system environment. The file has an associated file extension. The system environment includes applications for opening files. In response to detecting the request, the shell extension determines that the action is to open the file in the system environment and the file extension is not associated with any of the applications in the system environment. The shell extension queries the virtual environments to find an association between the file extension and an application, identifies at least one of the virtual environments in which the extension is associated with an application, and opens the file in a selected virtual environment. |
| US08387046B1 |
Security driver for hypervisors and operating systems of virtualized datacenters
A system and method for efficient security protocols in a virtualized datacenter environment are contemplated. In one embodiment, a system is provided comprising a hypervisor coupled to one or more protected virtual machines (VMs) and a security VM. Within a private communication channel, a split kernel loader provides an end-to-end communication between a paravirtualized security device driver, or symbiont, and the security VM. The symbiont monitors kernel-level activities of a corresponding guest OS, and conveys kernel-level metadata to the security VM via the private communication channel. Therefore, the well-known semantic gap problem is solved. The security VM is able to read all of the memory of a protected VM, detect locations of memory compromised by a malicious rootkit, and remediate any detected problems. |
| US08387045B2 |
Cloning image creation using virtual machine environment
Systems, methods, and computer programs for creating a cloning image using a pseudo environment in a virtual machine. The pseudo environment is configured based on an inventory of the assets of a reference machine. The cloning image can be deployed to one or more target machines. |
| US08387044B2 |
Storage system and virtual interface management method using physical interface identifiers and virtual interface identifiers to facilitate setting of assignments between a host computer and a storage apparatus
Identifiers of a plurality of physical HBAs disposed in a real host are grouped into a virtual HBA(s) for each work application executed in the real host. A storage device of a management server manages a virtual HBA ID which is an identifier of the virtual HBA and physical HBA IDs which are identifiers of the grouped physical HBAs, which are associated with each other. A display device of the management server displays information on a virtual host in which the virtual HBA is virtually disposed. |
| US08387043B2 |
USB port shared control method in a plurality of virtual machines
A USB port shared control method executed by a hypervisor controlling port sharing among virtual machines and having a physical USB host controller including a physical register, the virtual machines each including a virtual USB host controller having a virtual register. The method includes performing sharing by: selectively allocating the physical register to the virtual register of a subject virtual USB host controller provided in a subject virtual machine of the plurality of virtual machines to occupy and unitize the USB port by the subject virtual machine, and directly reading or writing of the physical register by the subject virtual machine via the subject virtual USB host controller, to thereby allow the subject virtual USB host controller to directly control the physical USB host controller. More particularly, the allocating, reading and writing are switched from subject virtual machine to subject virtual machines to facilitate sharing. |
| US08387037B2 |
Updating software images associated with a distributed computing system
In general, the invention is directed to updating images running on computing nodes within a distributed computing system. For example, a distributed computing system comprises a plurality of application nodes, a software image repository and a control node interconnected via a network. The image repository stores a master software image and a plurality of software image instances generated from the master software image. The control node automatically updates each of the software image instances using an updated version of the master software image. |
| US08387030B2 |
Service adaptation definition language
A back-end service adaptation system provides access to normalized data in a data repository for a consumer runtime environment sending a query request for denormalized data. The back-end service adaptation system can include a data access service layer, a parser layer, and a back-end service adaptation runtime layer. The consumer runtime can use a service adaptation definition language (SADL), and the parser and data access service can be configured to convert and translate the SADL request for the back-end service adaptation runtime layer. |
| US08387028B2 |
Determining a target data type in a heterogeneous multi-level environment
An apparatus and computer program product determine a target data type in an environment having a plurality of levels. The plurality of levels comprise a source level, zero or more intermediate levels, and a target level. The zero or more intermediate levels are between the source level and the target level. A target data type representing a transformation of a data type of an associated datum as the datum passes from the source level through the zero or more intermediate levels to the target level is generated. The target data type comprises a sequence of nested transformation functions having an innermost transformation function and an outermost transformation function. |
| US08387024B2 |
Multilingual software testing tool
A software product testing system may include a knowledge base with a data set that includes multiple possible actions and, for each action, language-specific format rules for inputs and outputs associated with the action. The software product testing system may include a test case generator that selects a test case in a target language for a software product. The test case may include a selected action to be taken by a software product, an input to prompt the action, and an expected output that corresponds to the selected action and the input. The expected output has a format corresponding to a language-specific format rule of the target language. The software product testing system may also include a test verifier that determines whether an output generated by application of the test case to the software product matches the expected output. |
| US08387021B2 |
Symbolic runtime checking of quantified contracts
An extension of symbolic execution for programs involving contracts with quantifiers over large and potentially unbounded domains is described. Symbolic execution is used to generate, from a program, concrete test cases that exhibit mismatches between the program code and its contracts with quantifiers. Quantifiers are instantiated using symbolic values encountered during a set of exhibited runs. In this setting, quantifier instantiation is limited to values supplied to or produced by a symbolic execution. Quantifier instantiation is controlled by performing a matching algorithm that uses run-time values of input and program variables in order to guide and limit the set of quantifier instantiations. With a sufficient set of instances, test cases are derived that directly witness limitations of the auxiliary assertions. |
| US08387015B2 |
Scalable automated empirical testing of media files on media players
Scalable empirical testing of media file playback utilizes test hooks in each media player to support simulated human interaction and playback monitoring. A media crawler catalogs media files accumulated in a media file database to create a wordlist. One or more scalable instances of media tester accesses the wordlist to select items of work linked to media files. Work items and/or operating modes of media tester specify test parameters such as performance profiles or further define testing such as specifying repetitious playback on one or more media players. Media files are downloaded to and played by a scalable number of media players. Playback performance is monitored, analyzed and reported. Failure reports are accompanied by instructions to reproduce failures and cross-references to content or source code in media files. Failures can be audited by additional work items for follow-up testing. |
| US08387010B2 |
Automatic software configuring system
An automatic software configuring system includes a database storage section for storing therein a plurality of soft components. In the event that soft components are extracted from the database storage section and are combined together to thereby generate a file, a comment indicative of a storage location in the database storage section for storing a respective soft component extracted from the database storage section is added to the respective soft component. The automatic software configuring system further includes a device for identifying the respective soft component combined into the file and a storage location of the respective soft component by reading the comment; a device for identifying a comparison-target soft component stored in the database storage section; a device for identifying a soft component having a different content; and a device for replacing specified soft component in the database storage section with the soft component combined into the file. |
| US08387008B2 |
Method for sharing a function between web contents
When an execution request for a predetermined function occurs when a content associated with a certain frame is executed, a definition of the function for which execution is requested is searched for in the content. When the definition of the function is not found in the content, the definition of the function is searched for until the definition of the function is found in a content associated with a parent frame of the frame associated with the content in which the definition has not been found. When the definition of the function is found, predetermined processing is executed based on the found definition of the function. |
| US08387001B2 |
Method for finding an impact on a computer generated code
The present invention describes a method and a computer program product for finding an impact of a change on a computer generated code. The method includes the generation of a dependency graph for the computer generated code. The dependency graph includes a plurality of nodes that are connected logically by one or more edges. The method enables an expert to assign nodal weights to the nodes, based on their importance. The method also enables the expert to assign edge weights and distribution ratios, based on the criticality of the relationship between the nodes and their distance from the root node. Thereafter, the impact of the change is found by implementing a spreading activation technique on the dependency graph. The output gathered after the activation represents the impact of the change on the computer generated code. |
| US08386999B2 |
Method and system for analyzing a software design
A method and system of analyzing a software design includes receiving one or more specifications containing one or more design elements. One or more design elements not included in the one or more specifications are identified. One or more design elements not included in the one or more specifications are generated. The one or more generated design elements are added to the one or more specifications. |
| US08386998B2 |
Software development apparatus for model that requires security
A software development apparatus for developing application software based on an object model that requires security in a web service application is provided. The software development apparatus includes a display unit that displays, in a class diagram of the application software, security annotation for adding security requirements for a service, input means for inputting the security annotation, transforming means for transforming the class diagram into a configuration model based on a markup language, and configuration-file creating means for creating a configuration file based on a markup language by serializing the configuration model based on a markup language. The security annotation includes the security requirements and a token class of a security token that is a certificate for declaring identity of a client to a server. |
| US08386997B2 |
UML profile transformation authoring method and system
A method and apparatus for authoring model-to-model transformations of programming models involving profiles is disclosed. Using a declarative mapping between a given profile of a subject programming model and a target profile of a target programming model, transformation of the given profile is specified and results in a declarative specification. Similarly the declarative mapping may be to a profile of a target programming model (without a corresponding source side profile) or from a profile of a source programming model (without a corresponding target side profile). Based on the declarative specification, a transformation code implementation (e.g. a transformation API) is generated. The given profile is specified as an input domain or as an output domain along with a meta model of the subject programming model. The generated transformation code implementation effectively handles complexities of dealing with the given profile at run time. |
| US08386996B2 |
Process extension wizard for coherent multi-dimensional business process models
This disclosure relates to methods, systems, and software for processing a coherent multi-dimensional business process model. The software includes computer-readable instructions embodied on media to identify a coherent multi-dimensional business process model based on at least a portion of a first model for a business process and at least a portion of a second model for the business process. The software then parses the multi-dimensional business process model to identify at least one extension point, each extension point operable to interface a disparate business tool with the business process. The software is further operable to present an extension wizard to a client for a particular one of the identified extension points. It can create entities and extensions in various modeling environments and development environments. |
| US08386994B2 |
Method of automation of business processes and apparatus therefor
The invention disclosed relates to the field of requirement specification in application development. This invention provides a system for business process automation which can generate an executable optimized requirements set by capturing the requirements from the users and processing them to create prototypes. Feedback is obtained from external users on the played prototypes to correct and enhance the requirements to obtain an optimized, complete, correct and consistent requirements set. This helps in the successful development of business application with minimal errors in a very short time. |
| US08386992B2 |
Data processing device
A microcomputer provided on a rectangular semiconductor board has memory interface circuits. The memory interface circuits are separately disposed in such positions as to extend along the peripheries of the semiconductor board on both sides from one corner as a reference position. In this case, limitations to size reduction imposed on the semiconductor board can be reduced compared with a semiconductor board having memory interface circuits only on one side. Respective partial circuits on each of the separated memory interface circuits have equal data units associated with data and data strobe signals. Thus, the microcomputer has simplified line design on a mother board and on a module board. |
| US08386987B1 |
Method and system for implementing and analyzing power switch configurations
Disclosed is an improved method and system for implementing and analyzing power switch configurations. Described is a novel approach to minimize the number of power switches required for a power domain and to automatically find the locations of those power switches subject to the constraints of saturation current and maximum IR-drop on the power switches. This approach uses a fast static power consumption analysis tool to compute the current and IR drop through the power switches. The approach can apply to both column and ring style power switch insertion methodologies. |
| US08386983B1 |
Parallel signal routing
In one embodiment, a method for parallel routing of a circuit design is provided. Placement of a netlist of the circuit design is determined for a target device. A plurality of regions of the target device is defined. Each region of the plurality of regions is assigned to a respective set of processors, each set including at least one processor. Global routing of nets of the netlist on the target device is performed. The global routing of each net restricts the net to one or more possible routes through a corresponding subset of the plurality of regions. Local routing of the netlist is concurrently performed within the plurality of regions using the respective sets of processors. Within each region, the local routing of the netlist is performed exclusively by the respective set of one or more processors. |
| US08386982B1 |
System, method, and computer program product for pin assignment in an electronic design
The present disclosure relates to a computer-implemented method for assigning pins in an electronic design. The method may include generating a pin list associated with the electronic design, the pin list having a one or more pins that are directly and indirectly connected with at least one of a master partition and a clone partition. The method may further include sorting one or more pins within the pin list based upon, at least in part, a number of local connections to generate a sorted pin list and selecting a first pin having a highest number of local connections of the sorted pin list as a reference pin. The method may also include selecting a partition of the reference pin, as a reference partition and identifying one or more alignment zones for every connected pair of pins in the sorted pin list. The method may further include transforming all alignment zones to the reference partition using a depth-first-search. |
| US08386981B1 |
Method and systems for implementing I/O rings and die area estimations
Disclosed are improved methods, systems, and computer program products for generating an I/O ring arrangement for an electronic design, and for performing chip planning and estimation based upon the I/O ring arrangement. |