| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08388381B2 |
Visible open for switchgear assembly
An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body having a conductor receiving end, a first link interface, a second link interface, a first connector end, and a visible open port between the first link interface and the second link interface. The first link interface may be conductively coupled to the conductor receiving end and the second link interface may be spaced axially from the first link interface and conductively coupled to the first connector end. The first link interface and the second link interface are configured to receive a link assembly therein. An insulative material may be positioned within the connector body axially between the first link interface and the second link interface. At least a portion of the insulative material may be visible through the visible open port. |
| US08388372B2 |
Electrical connector with improved high frequency signal transmission environment
An electrical connector defining a receiving cavity for receiving a corresponding plug includes an insulative housing and a number of contacts retained in the insulative housing. The contacts include a number of first contacts which are arranged in a row along a transverse direction of the insulative housing. The first contacts include two pairs of differential signal contacts and a grounding contact between said two pairs of differential signal contacts. Each first contact has a contact portion extending into the receiving cavity, a tail portion extending out of the insulative housing and a connecting portion between the contact portion and the tail portion. The connecting portion of the grounding contact is wider than that of the differential signal contacts in the transverse direction. |
| US08388366B2 |
Pull-out structure for connector
A pull-out structure for connector includes a connector and a pull unit. The connector has a locking unit movably arranged thereon and the locking unit includes a retaining section located at a rear end thereof. The pull unit includes an insertion section located at a lower front end thereof, and is engaged with the locking unit by inserting the insertion section into the retaining section of the locking unit. The pull unit and the locking unit have sufficient structural strength. When it is necessary to replace or remove the connector from a shielding cage thereof, a user may directly apply a pulling force on the pull unit to move the locking unit rearward and accordingly easily pull the connector out of the shielding cage without damaging the connector. |
| US08388365B2 |
Semiconductor device burn-in test socket
Provided is a socket which protects an upper surface of a semiconductor device from being scratched due to contact, by using a latch plate. A socket (10) includes a base member (20), a cover member (30) that reciprocates in a direction to be close to or separated from the base member (20), a plurality of contacts (40), an adaptor (50) that moves in a direction to be close to or separated from the base member and provides a surface for placing a semiconductor package, a latch member (60) that rotationally shifts with reciprocation of the cover member (30), and a latch plate (70) connected to the latch member (60). The latch plate (70) prevents the leading edge of the latch member (60) from being directly brought into contact with a Ball Grid Array (BGA), and presses down the BGA placed on the adaptor (50) in the vertical direction. |
| US08388364B2 |
Joint connector and busbar
A joint connector has a housing (1) with cavities (3) into which female terminal fittings (2) are insertable, and a busbar (5) to be mounted in the housing (1). The busbar (5) has tabs (6) to be connected to the respective female terminal fittings (2) and adapted to short the female terminal fittings (2) to each other. The busbar (5) includes a base (15) used to mount the busbar (5) into the housing (1) and the tabs (6) are cantilevered from the base (15). The base (15) includes resilient legs (17) for allowing displacements of the tabs (6) in a direction crossing a longitudinal direction of the tabs (6). The tabs (6) can be displaced by displacements of the resilient legs (17) to absorb a misalignment between the tab pieces (6) and the female terminal fittings (2). |
| US08388360B1 |
Spark plug wire
A spark plug wire having a first terminal and a second terminal wherein the first terminal is configured to operably couple to a distributor of a combustion engine and the second terminal operably couples to a spark plug. The second terminal further includes a housing that is generally cylindrical in shape having an upper groove and a lower groove. A first lateral ring is surroundably mounted to the housing within the upper groove. A second lateral ring is surroundably mounted to the housing within the lower groove. A first grip member and a second grip member being elongated in shape having a first end and a second end are integrally connected to the first lateral ring and the second lateral ring. The first grip member and second grip member are mounted such that they are diametrically opposed on the housing. |
| US08388359B1 |
Ignition terminal apparatus and method for forming a temperature-resistant insulating housing
An ignition terminal built for connection to a spark plug or igniter includes an insulating housing composed of polyphenylene sulfide extending outward from conductive structures within the ignition terminal. The ignition terminal may be an extender that is used to move a point of connection of an ignition cable to the spark plug or igniter outward, so that such a connection can be easily made, or the ignition terminal may be at an end of the ignition cable itself that is directly connected to the spark plug or igniter. |
| US08388357B2 |
Apparatus for testing electronic devices
An apparatus is described for burn-in and/or functional testing of microelectronic circuits of unsingulated wafers. A large number of power, ground, and signal connections can be made to a large number of contacts on a wafer. The apparatus has a cartridge that allows for fanning-in of electric paths. A distribution board has a plurality of interfaces that are strategically positioned to provide a dense configuration. The interfaces are connected through flexible attachments to an array of first connector modules. Each one of the first connector modules can be independently connected to a respective one of a plurality of second connector modules, thereby reducing stresses on a frame of the apparatus. Further features include for example a piston that allows for tight control of forces exerted by terminals onto contacts of a wafer. |
| US08388349B2 |
Anastomosis deployment force training tool
An anastomosis training device and related methods of use that provides medical professionals with real-time feedback of pulling force. The anastomosis training device can include a housing portion, a spring member, a proximal catheter portion and a distal catheter portion. The housing portion can include an external tubing member that slidingly retains an internal tubing element and the spring member. A proximal wire assembly attaches the spring member to a manipulation assembly and a distal wire assembly attaches the spring member to a retention member that allows the anastomosis training tool to be anchored to a suitable surface. As a user applies a pulling force to the manipulation assembly, the internal tubing member is slidably withdrawn from the external tubing member to expose a visible force scale that indicates the level of pulling force being applied by the user. |
| US08388347B2 |
Systems and methods for simulating effects of age-related cognitive or physical decline
Certain aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a system for allowing a user to experience a simulation of an age-related medical condition. The system can include eyewear, footwear, handwear, and an audio recording. The eyewear can include two colored lenses. Each lens includes a marking that can at least partially bock central vision of the user and a lens sideguard that can at least partially block peripheral vision of the user. The footwear includes a surface that can be located adjacent to a sole of the user. The surface includes protrusions that can at least indirectly contact the sole. The handwear can impair physical sensory of the user. The audio recording is stored on a medium and includes voiced instructions and static for a first pre-set time and static for a second pre-set time. The voiced instruction identifies home-based tasks for the user to perform during the second pre-set time while wearing the eyewear, footwear, and handwear. |
| US08388346B2 |
Tactile feedback
For providing a tactile feedback to a user of a device, textual or graphical information is converted into instructions for a sequence of pulses representing the information. An actuator is then caused to move at least a part of a display according to the obtained instructions. |
| US08388343B2 |
Implants, tools, and methods for sinus lift and bone augmentation
A minimally-invasive sinus lift implant and implantation methods are disclosed. An implant apparatus may included an anchor having a distal implant end and an opposite proximal end. The implant apparatus may further include a channel extending though a portion of the anchor and having an outlet opening in the distal implant end. The channel may also include an inlet opening on a side of the anchor between the distal implant end and the proximal end. Further, the inlet opening, the channel, and the outlet opening may be configured to convey fluid therethrough and the implant is configured for implantation in a bone such that when fully implanted, the side inlet opening is buried in the bone. |
| US08388340B2 |
Apical position locator
A method and system are disclosed for detecting an apical position depending on the change in the impedance between a first electrode inserted into the root canal of the tooth of a patient and a second external electrode applied to a body surface of the patient. According to some embodiments, a regulated current such as an alternating current having a substantially constant amplitude is supplied between the two electrodes, and this current serves as a measurement signal. Alternatively or additionally, the frequency of the time varying (e.g. alternating) current is at least 50 KHZ, and/or at most about 300 KHZ. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed device includes a processing unit which determines a capacitance-governed function when the first electrode is in the apical region, and which determined a function at least moderately governed by resistance when the electrode is in the dental neck region. Optionally, the first electrode inserted into the root canal is a dental file or reamer. |
| US08388336B2 |
Device for producing a structure
The invention relates to a method and a device for producing a structure made up of at least two bodies in a cavity of a mold defining the structure. |
| US08388334B2 |
Device for curling up dough slices
The present invention relates to a method and device for curling up dough slices, comprising a conveyor for the dough slices, a gripping element, arranged above the conveyor, for curling up a dough slice conveyed under the gripping element by the conveyor, pressure means, for pressing curled up dough slices on the conveyor, wherein the distance along which the gripping element grips dough slices is adjustable in the direction of conveyance. |
| US08388332B2 |
Mold, device and method for producing molded skins and molded bodies made of plastic
The present invention refers to a mold for the production of molded skins 7 and molded bodies 7 from plastic, wherein the mold is configured as a double-walled hollow body comprising a shaped front wall 1 as well as a rear wall 2, in which hollow chambers are formed. With this arrangement, it is possible to save energy and also not inconsiderable amounts of material when applying a slush-or rotation method for the production of molded skins 7 and molded bodies 7 especially those for use in interior paneling and dash boards of motor vehicles. |
| US08388330B2 |
In-mould coating device
An in-mold coating device comprises a fixed insert, a light generator, a camera, a light sensor, a bolster, a moving insert, the fixed insert is disposed in a fixed plate, the light generator, camera and light sensor are disposed in the fixed insert and equipped with on-off and control wires, the bolster is attached to a bottom of the fixed insert to fix the fixed insert, the camera and light sensor; the fixed inserted is made of transparent material selected from the group consisting of quartz, glass, crystal and coated with a reflective layer on an outer surface thereof, light generated from the light generator is reflected by the reflective layer, photo-curing coating materials are injected into a clearance between the fixed insert and the moving insert and irradiated by the light directly generated from the light generator and multidirectional light reflected by the reflective layer. |
| US08388329B2 |
Apparatus for making a fibrous article
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for a making a formed fibrous article and more specifically to an apparatus for making a formed fibrous article useful as an absorbent core structure in a disposable sanitary article such as a sanitary napkin, panty liner, diaper or the like. |
| US08388327B2 |
Progressing cavity pump with several pump sections
A progressing cavity pump comprises at least an inner pump rotor enclosed by at least an outer pump rotor so as to collectively form one or more, in principle, separate pump cavities which, according to known geometric principles, will be moved axially through the pump upon bringing the rotors into coordinated rotation. At least two pump sections are disposed therein, each of which comprises one outer pump rotor and one adapted inner pump rotor. The outer pump rotors of all pump sections are fixedly supported and arranged along the same axis, wherein all the inner rotors are supported in fixed positions relative to a pump casing of the pump. The outer rotors of all pump sections are driven by the same motor via at least one differential arranged to allow each pump section to rotate at a mutually different rotational speed. |
| US08388326B2 |
Piston pump assembly having a cylinder member with strain-absorbing portions
A piston pump assembly includes a first pump having a first cylinder member inserted in a piston hole of a pump housing, and a first piston inserted in the first cylinder member, and a second pump having a second cylinder member inserted in the piston hole, and an annular second piston slidably fitted in an annular groove formed in the outer periphery of the first piston, and also axially slidably inserted in the second cylinder member. The first cylinder member axially presses the second cylinder member, thereby preventing the second cylinder member from being dropped out of the piston hole. The second cylinder member has an annular seal surface in contact with a shoulder surface formed on the inner periphery of the piston hole. Strain-absorbing protrusions are formed on the end of the second cylinder member in abutment with the first cylinder member. The protrusions are compressed when they are pressed by the first cylinder member. |
| US08388322B2 |
Electronic fuel pump
A fuel pump for deployment in a fuel system for an internal combustion engine comprises a 3-phase brushless direct current motor, a sling vane impeller with blade-shaped sling vanes, sensorless electronic motor drive and an electronic controller. The controller is adapted to receive analog or pulse-width modulation inputs to control pump speed. |
| US08388315B2 |
Method for operating a wind turbine with reduced blade fouling
A method of operating a wind turbine having at least one rotor blade and an active flow control (AFC) system is provided. The at least one rotor blade has at least one aperture defined through a surface thereof, and the AFC system is configured to modify aerodynamic properties of the rotor blade by ejecting gas through the aperture. The method includes operating the wind turbine in a normal mode, determining whether an estimated insect density value surrounding the wind turbine is above an insect density threshold value based on a measured environmental condition, and changing a mode of the wind turbine from the normal mode to a cleaning mode different than the normal mode based on the estimated insect density value. The cleaning mode includes adjusting at least one operation parameter of the wind turbine based on the estimated insect density value such that fouling of the aperture is reduced. |
| US08388310B1 |
Turbine disc sealing assembly
A disc seal assembly for use in a turbine engine. The disc seal assembly includes a plurality of outwardly extending sealing flange members that define a plurality of fluid pockets. The sealing flange members define a labyrinth flow path therebetween to limit leakage between a hot gas path and a disc cavity in the turbine engine. |
| US08388303B2 |
Gas turbine having a rotor including a turbine rotor, expanded shaft and a compressor rotor
A gas turbine having a rotor which includes a turbine rotor, a shaft and a compressor rotor, the turbine rotor having at least one rotor disk and a rotor cone leading from the or a rotor disk to the shaft, the downstream end of the shaft being rotatably supported in a bearing having a bearing chamber, the interior space of the shaft being designed as a flow channel for bearing-chamber sealing air, and the space surrounding the rotor cone upstream of the same being designed as a flow space for cooling air is disclosed. In the region of the rotor connection, the shaft exhibits an expanded portion, at whose upstream end, openings are provided to allow cooling air to enter, and, at whose downstream end, openings are provided to allow cooling air to exit into the space between the bearing chamber and the rotor cone, a wall separating the streams of the cooling air and of the sealing air in the shaft interior from one another. |
| US08388298B2 |
Apparatus for automatically correcting a positional deviation of a load
A load positioning apparatus includes a movable table that is urged and held at a forward limit position by a movable-table urging element, a load-supporting roller that allows the load to laterally move on a horizontal surface, and a load-positioning roller that is supported on the movable table and adjoins the side face of the load supported in the fixed position on the load supporting roller. The urging element allows the table to recede together with the load-positioning roller when a load is vertically lowered at a position where the load-positioning roller is pushed outwardly with respect to the fixed position. The urging element has an urging force sufficient to return the movable table to the forward limit position so as to push back the load to the fixed position via the load positioning roller. |
| US08388292B2 |
Self expanding fastener
In one embodiment a method to join a first structure to a second structure, comprises aligning a first hole in the first structure with a second hole in the second structure and inserting a fastener into the first hole and the second hole. The fastener comprises a shape memory alloy which was formed into a first shape having a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in an austenite state and reduced to a second shape having a diameter less than the diameter of the first hole and the second hole when the shape memory alloy was in a martensite state. The method further comprises heating the fastener above an austenite start transition temperature, such that the fastener initiates free expansion from the second shape back to the first shape and establishes physical contact with the surface of the first hole and the second hole and continuing to heat the fastener such that first structure and the second structure proximate the holes and the fastener undergo plastic deformation. |
| US08388288B2 |
Captive screw
A captive screw formed of a lock screw, a cap-shaped knob, a spring member and a mounting barrel and mountable in a mounting through hole of a first panel frame and fastenable to a mounting screw hole of a second panel frame to detachably secure the second panel frame to the first panel frame is disclosed. The lock screw has a top protrusion raised from the top wall of the head thereof and a tool groove formed in the top protrusion. The cap-shaped knob is molded on the head of the lock screw by insert molding and defining an endless isolation groove on the top wall of the head of the lock screw around the periphery of the top protrusion that facilitates attachment of a hand tool to the top protrusion of the lock screw for enabling the lock screw to be driven by the user with the hand tool into the mounting screw hole of the second panel frame conveniently with less effort. |
| US08388286B2 |
Tie-down eye
A tie-down eye for a cargo space of a motor vehicle has an annular loop pivoted on a mount that is formed with a journal part wrapped around a portion of the loop, and the mount and the loop are secured in a frame element fixed in a floor of the cargo space. The loop, which serves for attachment of securing straps, retaining ropes, retaining nets, or similar load-securing elements on or against the cargo surface can pivot between a nonuse position recessed in the frame element and use position projecting upward therefrom. The mount is formed with a cutout in its journal part wrapped around the loop, and a projection extending radially from the loop extends through this cutout and bears against an inner peripheral edge of the cutout when in the use position. |
| US08388284B2 |
Bunk of load space
The invention relates to a bunk of a load space which bunk (12) includes a frame component (15), a support component (14) articulated to at least one end of the frame component (15), and two bunk arms (16, 17). At least one bunk arm (17) is composed of two or more plates (18, 19, 20) wherein one of the plates (18) is profiled to a curved form (10) on the transverse plane at the position of the load space and the other plate (20) is made parallel to the curved surface of the bunk arm (17) for widening the surface area of the bunk arm (17). |
| US08388283B2 |
Chip catcher for weld tip dresser
An apparatus for collecting weld tip chips created by a weld tip dresser is provided that “catches” the chips at the cutting tool and collects them in a container, preventing their disbursement on the factory floor. The apparatus includes a body adapted for connection to the weld tip dresser and with an opening therethrough configured to permit the weld tip dresser therethrough. The body defines an air inlet passage extending from an outer surface of the body to the opening. The body defines an air outlet passage from the opening to the outer surface. A pressurized air supply is connected to the body at the air inlet passage and is configured to blow air through the air inlet passage to blow chips from the opening through the air outlet passage. A container is operatively connected to the body at the air outlet passage for collecting chips blown from the opening. |
| US08388281B2 |
Method for producing bevel gears having hypocycloidai teeth in the continuous indexing method using a corresponding face cutter head
A face milling cutter method for manufacturing various hypocycloidal bevel gears that is characterized in that the following steps are performed to manufacture a first bevel gear: equipping a universal face milling cutter in a first configuration with a first number of cutter groups that corresponds to a first number of passes. A first bevel gear is then produced in the continuous partial method using the universal face milling cutter in the first configuration. The following steps are performed to manufacture a second bevel gear: equipping the same universal face milling cutter in a second configuration with a second number of cutter groups that corresponds to a second number of passes. The second bevel gear is then produced in the continuous partial method using the universal face milling cutter in the second configuration. |
| US08388279B2 |
Drilling tool
There is provided a drilling tool having a substantially columnar tool body to be rotated around an axial line, a cutting edge located at a front end portion of the tool body, and a chip suction hole which is formed inside the tool body in a direction of the axial line for sucking chips generated by the cutting edge. The chip suction hole has a main hole portion extending toward a drill base along the axial line, a narrow hole portion located at a front end of the main hole portion, the narrow hole portion having a cross section smaller than that of the main hole portion and a suction opening located at a front end of the narrow hole portion and opened in the vicinity of the cutting edge, the suction opening having a cross section larger than that of the narrow hole portion. |
| US08388277B2 |
Internal chamfering device and method
A method of forming an opening in a layered structure includes providing a layered structure including a first layer and a second layer and a near-zero gap interface defined between the first layer and the second layer; providing an opening through the layered structure such that the opening extends through the first layer and the second layer; and working simultaneously the opening in the fay surface of the first layer and the opening in the fay surface of the second layer without separating the first layer and the second layer. An internal chamfering device is also disclosed. |
| US08388272B2 |
High speed milling cutter with tapered pin
A milling cutter includes a shank and upper portion with an insert pocket. The insert pocket includes a bottom surface, a radial support wall and an axial support wall. A cutting insert includes a hole extending from a bottom surface. A tapered pin includes a lower portion and a tapered upper portion. A spring engages the lower portion of the tapered pin and provides an upward biasing force on the tapered pin. A center axis of the tapered pin is closer to the radial support wall than a center axis of the hole of the cutting insert such that the tapered pin exerts pressure against the hole of the cutting insert to cause one of the side walls of the cutting insert to be forced against the radial support wall of the insert pocket when the cutting insert is mounted in the insert pocket. |
| US08388270B2 |
Slotting cutter with cantilevered member
A slotting cutter includes a disc-like cutter body rotatable in a predetermined direction on a central axis perpendicular to a plane of the cutter body. A plurality of cutting insert receiving pockets and a corresponding number of wedge receiving pockets are formed about a perimeter of the body. A cutting insert is replaceably mounted in each insert receiving pocket of the cutter body, and a clamping wedge is replaceably mounted in each wedge receiving pocket of the cutter body. A cantilevered member is disposed between each insert receiving pocket and a respective wedge receiving pocket to securely hold the cutting insert in the cutter body. |
| US08388267B2 |
Ballasted driven pile
A driven pile anchor suitable for securing a tendon of a tension leg platform to the seafloor is supplemented with added weight. A load frame is added to the individual pile to accommodate ballast weights. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are placed on the frame to increase the holding power of the pile anchor system. In a second embodiment, the pile is intentionally plugged and installed with the plug intact. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are then placed inside the pile and may be held in place by gravity. In a third embodiment, the pile is a conventional driven friction pile installed with an underwater pile hammer. The pile is initially open but subsequently evacuated and intentionally plugged near its pile tip. Pre-manufactured ballast weights are placed inside the pile to increase its holding capacity. The first embodiment may be retrofitted to existing, driven-pile anchor systems. |
| US08388262B2 |
Operator workplace of a construction machine
The invention relates to an operator workplace of a construction machine, especially a milling machine for processing a road surface, comprising a seat with a seating surface, an armrest arranged to the side of the seating surface and comprising an arm supporting surface, and at least one control element arranged on the armrest for controlling at least one machine function. The invention further relates to a construction machine with such an operator workplace. |
| US08388255B2 |
Dog-type lockout and position indicator assembly
A connector assembly for connecting two members that allows manual lockdown to prevent accidental disengagement. The connector assembly can be used to connect a tension ring to a housing on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of upper hydraulically actuated dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. The connector assembly also has position indicators that ride along with the dogs to indicate whether the dogs are in the engaged or disengaged position. |
| US08388253B2 |
Linkage coupling apparatus
An apparatus for adjustably coupling a threaded linkage rod to an arm of a fuel valve, air valve, air damper, damper blade assembly, or actuator that can include a sleeve, a collar, and a lock restraining axial movement of the collar with respect to the sleeve. The sleeve may include an inside threaded wall defining a sleeve bore axially receiving the linkage rod. The collar may include (i) a collar body having a collar bore axially receiving the sleeve and (ii) an about radial extension for engagement with the arm of the fuel valve, air damper, or actuator. Rotation of the sleeve causes axial movement of the sleeve, and thus the collar locked thereto, along the linkage rod. Fine position adjustments can be made to the position of the radial extension, and thus the arm of the fuel valve, air damper, or actuator engaged thereto, with respect to the linkage rod. |
| US08388250B2 |
Toothpaste dispensing toothbrush with mouthwash strip roll compartment
A toothbrush combined with a toothpaste dispenser with a wall mounted holder. The present invention comprises of a twist knob that is able to push a piston up a toothpaste compartment. The piston creates pressure inside the toothpaste compartment and causes the toothpaste to travel up a main channel. The main channel branches into a plurality of smaller tubes. Each tube has a respective rubber tube dispenser that protrudes and extends from the brush head. The rubber tube dispensers allow the toothpaste to be dispensed on top of the bristles. The toothbrush additionally comprises of a mouthwash strip roll dispensing mechanism positioned in the knob. The present invention additionally comprises of audio and visual indicators to provide users with visual or hearing impairments with a signal notification of toothpaste depletion. |
| US08388247B2 |
Image forming device having mechanism for detecting detection target
An image forming device having a detection assembly that detects a detection target. The detection assembly includes an actuator having a shaft rotatable about its axis, an abutment portion extending from the shaft and pivotally movable upon abutment of the detection target, and a detected portion pivotally movable about the axis. A detection board is supported to a stationary base component and includes a detection unit for detecting the detected portion. The shaft has one end portion supported to the base component, and another end portion supported to the detection board. Relative positional relationship between the actuator and the detection unit is maintained by the direct supporting manner of the shaft by the detection board. |
| US08388244B2 |
Elevation device of monitoring camera
An elevation device is provided for a monitoring camera, including a top retaining barrel fixed to the top end of a high suspending post and downward fit onto a retained member. The retained member has a bottom forming the wire box. A retained cylinder has an outer circumference forming spaced locking blocks. The top retaining barrel comprises a locking tube receiving therein a toothed crown locking collar that comprises oppositely set first and second toothed crowns between when the locking blocks are movable to alternately carry out locking and unlocking operation. The locking tube forms a guide block corresponding to an inclined circumferential surface of a cam, whereby when the retained cylinder is driven upward in any orientation to fit into the locking tube, the inclined circumferential surface is guided by the guide block to correct orientation of the retained cylinder with respect to retained cylinder. |
| US08388242B2 |
In-line splice with integrated splice holder
A fiber optic cable assembly includes a connector and a fiber optic cable. The connector includes a housing having a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end. A ferrule is disposed in the housing. A plurality of optical fibers is mounted in the ferrule. The fiber optic cable includes an outer jacket defining a fiber passage that extends longitudinally through the outer jacket and a window that extends through the outer jacket and the fiber passage. First and second strength members are oppositely disposed about the fiber passage in the outer jacket. A plurality of optical fibers is disposed in the fiber passage. The optical fibers are joined at splices to the optical fibers of the connector. A splice sleeve is disposed over the splices. The splice sleeve is disposed in the window of the outer jacket. |
| US08388240B2 |
Receptacle attached with optical isolator and method thereof
Provided are a receptacle attached with an optical isolator and a manufacturing method thereof, capable of easily performing position alignment among an end surface of a magnet, an end surface of a fiber stub, and a polarization plane of a polarizer and dimension calculating of the optical isolator without an increase in the number of parts. The optical isolator is constructed by fitting a fiber stub into which an optical fiber is inserted and of which end surface is formed to be slanted with a predetermined angle into a ferrule holder, by forming an end surface of the magnet to be slanted with the same angle as the predetermined angle, and by fixing the optical isolator element to the magnet. The receptacle attached with an optical isolator is constructed by integrally fixing the optical isolator to the end surface of the fiber stub by fitting the optical isolator into an inner diameter portion of the ferrule holder. |
| US08388237B2 |
Optical connector and method of assembling optical connector
An optical connector that is assembled at the terminal of an optical fiber cable that integrates an optical fiber and a tension-resisting member extending in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, the optical connector including: a connector body having a stationary portion at the rear end thereof, the stationary portion having a threaded portion formed on the outer periphery surface, and a fixing cap that is screwed onto the threaded portion of the stationary portion, wherein the fixing cap fixes the tension-resisting member that has been drawn out from the optical fiber cable terminal by sandwiching the tension-resisting member between the fixing cap and the connector body when the fixing cap is screwed onto the stationary portion. |
| US08388235B1 |
Modular, optical, wet-mate connector
A modular and scalable high optical fiber count connector assembly (800) is formed by engagement mating of a plug connector (500) to a receptacle connector (700). The plug connector (500) includes a plug shell unit (200) and a pin subassembly unit (400), which includes a plurality of small form factor engagement mate pin connectors (100). The plug connector (500) is formed by inserting the pin subassembly unit (400) into the plug shell unit's (200) hollow body (230). The receptacle connector (700) includes a receptacle shell unit (300) and a socket subassembly unit (600), which includes a plurality of small form factor engagement mate socket connectors (150). The receptacle connector (700) is formed by inserting the socket subassembly unit (600) into the receptacle shell unit (300) hollow body (330). |
| US08388232B2 |
Rolling bearing
There is provided a rolling bearing which comprises at least: an outer ring 10 and an inner ring 20 disposed rotatable relative to each other; and plurality of rolling elements 40 respectively interposed rollably between the outer and inner rings. The outer ring is fitted into a housing (not shown) and the inner ring is fitted with a shaft (not shown), whereby the rolling bearing supports rotation between the shaft and housing. Between the fitting surface (not shown) of the housing and the outer circumferential surface 13 of the outer ring and/or between the fitting surface of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface 23 of the inner ring, there is interposed an O-ring 30 made of an elastic member having a reduced friction coefficient between the fitting surface of the housing and the outer circumferential surface of the outer ring or between the fitting surface of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface of the inner ring. |
| US08388226B2 |
Dynamic bearing device
A dynamic bearing device allows production of a smaller housing at low cost and suppresses ion elution from the resin portion to thereby maintain cleanliness in the dynamic bearing device and exert a desired bearing performance. A dynamic bearing device 1 is equipped with a bearing sleeve 8 fixed to the inner periphery of the housing 7, and a rotary member rotatable relative to the bearing sleeve 8 and the housing 7, in which the rotary member is supported in the radial direction and the thrust direction in a non-contact manner by a dynamic pressure action of a lubricant fluid generated in a bearing clearance. The housing 7 is formed by injection molding of a resin composition containing polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) as the base resin and PAN type carbon fibers as a filler. |
| US08388224B2 |
Engine turbine temperature measurement
An assembly for sensing temperature in a gas turbine engine includes a first array of RTDs connected in parallel, a second array of RTDs connected in parallel, and a circuit electrically connected to the first and second arrays. The circuit determines an approximate temperature of a medium as a function of resistance of the first and second arrays. |
| US08388223B2 |
Furnace temperature monitoring device and method
A method for measuring the temperature at various locations in a furnace adapted to heat-treat a metal part commences by placing one or more devices at various location within the furnace. Each device is an inorganic/metallic skeletal structure residual from firing a mixture of binder and one or more of inorganic or metallic particles at a temperature that chars the binder to form the inorganic/metallic skeletal structure of a determined shape. A physical parameter of the skeletal structure determined shape is monitored after firing of the furnace. Then, the monitored physical parameter is compared to a plot of temperature versus the physical parameter to determine the temperature of the furnace at the various locations. |
| US08388222B2 |
Device for indicating eradication of a pest infestation
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure include devices for monitoring and indicating the completion of eradication of a pest infestation in a space in which heating is utilized for eradication. In an exemplary embodiment, a device includes a sensor configured to sense temperature proximate the device, and a visual indicator configured to provide indication of status. The device further includes a processor that is connected to the sensor and visual indicator. The processor is configured to determine whether the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE, and configured to determine occurrence of completion of a minimum heating duration required for eradication in which the sensed temperature exceeds the MINIMUM LETHAL TEMPERATURE. The processor is further configured to activate the visual indicator subsequent to completion of the minimum heating duration, to thereby provide visible indication that the minimum heating duration for eradication of a pest infestation has elapsed. |
| US08388219B2 |
Method for calibrating a pyrometer, method for determining the temperature of a semiconducting wafer and system for determining the temperature of a semiconducting wafer
A method for calibrating a pyrometer a temperature of a calibration sample is determined from the ratio of a first reflectance and a second reflectance and the pyrometer is calibrated by assigning the determined temperature of the calibration sample with a thermal radiation signal measured by the pyrometer. |
| US08388214B1 |
Lighted railing and similar structures
A decorative lighting system has a light holding assembly, a base section member, and a top section member on the base section member. The light holding assembly has an elongated tubular body having a cavity defined therein, a flange extending from the elongated tubular body, and a plurality of lights within the elongated tubular body. At least a portion of the elongated tubular body is made of a material that allows light to pass through that portion. In addition, at least a portion of the flange is between the base section member and the top section member such that the light holding assembly is held between the base section member and the top section member. |
| US08388210B2 |
Walls
A glass or plastic wall structure with nested channel members is provided with electroluminescent strips running along the channel flanges to provide an internal illumination. In particular, it relates to illuminated transparent walls or internal partitions of a building or similar fixed construction. |
| US08388208B2 |
Method and structure for uniforming light emitted from backlight module
A method and a structure for improving the uniformity of light emitted from a backlight module are provided. In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of optical microstructures are intermittently distributed on an LGP of a backlight module. Each of the microstructures further includes a plurality of optical sub-microstructures. The optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed on the LGP with varied distribution intensities in three dimensions, such that at where the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed with a larger distribution intensities the LGP refracts and reflects more light, and at where the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures are distributed with a smaller distribution intensities the LGP refracts and reflects less light. In such a way, by designing particular distribution intensities of the optical microstructures and the optical sub-microstructures, the light emitted from the LGP can be uniformed. |
| US08388198B2 |
Device and apparatus for efficient collection and re-direction of emitted radiation
An apparatus is described, including a light source, a lens and two reflectors. A first reflector is positioned to reflect a first portion of light from the light source, wherein the first portion of light is radiated from the light source in a central forward solid angle as defined by an outer edge of the first reflector. The lens is azimuthally horizontal to the light source for accepting a second portion of light from the light source emitted in a peripheral forward solid angle. A second reflector reflects the first portion of light after reflectance from the first reflector and the second portion of light after passing through the lens in a composite beam, wherein the first reflector and the lens are configured such that the first and second portions of light behave as though they were emitted from a point source at the second reflector focus. |
| US08388195B2 |
Illumination device with heat dissipation structures
An exemplary illumination device includes an enclosure, a semiconductor light source accommodated in the enclosure, and an envelope engaged with the enclosure and covering the semiconductor light source. Light generated by the semiconductor light source can project through the envelope and out of the illumination device. The semiconductor light source includes a plurality of light source modules independent from each other. A plurality of air passages are defined in each light source module for air passing therethrough to dissipate heat generated by the semiconductor light source into ambient air. |
| US08388194B2 |
Chamber for laser apparatus with extruded base frame
A laser apparatus includes a base frame extruded in one single piece of light alloy metal which determines a chamber intended to receive the laser generator cavity, incorporated within the chamber. The plane of the lower base of the chamber coincides with the base plane of the extruded base, and the lateral faces of the chamber are directed towards opposed lateral faces of partition walls of the extruded base, with controlled clearance to permit the expansion of the laser generator cavity without mechanical stresses being produced on same, capable of deforming it. |
| US08388193B2 |
Lens with TIR for off-axial light distribution
A lens for directing light from a light emitter in a preferential-side off-axial direction with respect to the emitter axis. The lens includes an emitter-adjacent base end forming an opening, an inner surface extending from the base end and forming a void, an output-end surface configured to direct light toward the preferential side, and an outer lateral surface configured for TIR to direct light toward the output-end surface, whereby substantially all light from the emitter exits the output-surface predominantly toward the preferential side. Another aspect of this invention is a recessed lighting fixture utilizing the inventive lens. |
| US08388190B2 |
Illumination system and method for recycling light to increase the brightness of the light source
An illumination system for increasing the brightness of a light source comprises an optical recycling device coupled to the light source, preferably light emitting diode (LED), for spatially and/or angularly recycling light. The optical recycling device spatially recycles a portion of rays of light emitted by the LED back to the light source using a reflector or mirror and/or angularly recycles high angle rays of light and transmits small angle rays of light, thereby increasing the brightness of the light source's output. |
| US08388185B2 |
Image display device
An image display device comprises a light-emitting unit (1), an optical fiber (2) which transmits light emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a plurality of spheres (3) disposed so as to be coupled to the optical fiber (2) by evanescent coupling and having optical transparency. Each of the spheres (3) produces an optical mode in which light entering each sphere from the optical fiber (2) by the evanescent coupling is confined inside, and are so formed that predetermined resonant frequencies of the spheres for producing the optical mode are different from one another, so that an image is displayed by the light emitted from the spheres (3). This provides a simply structured image display device having a high response speed and capable of achieving power saving, a high luminance, a wide view angle, and a high contrast. |
| US08388180B2 |
Variable shaped lamp shade of LED lamp
In a variable shaped lamp shade of an LED lamp, the lamp shade is made of a translucent material matched with an LED lamp strip and a lamp holder and includes at least one strip-shaped optical refraction unit having an external refractive surface, an internal refractive surface corresponding to the external refractive surface, and an assembling structure for matching the lamp holder. The external refractive surface or internal refractive surface is a curved surface without an inflection point and the curved surface has a constant or gradually changing curvature; and a non-curved surface is formed on the other side. The variable shaped lamp overcomes the problems of conventional LED lamp strips having a low illumination and a non-uniform illumination caused by a direct projection or an installation of a conventional lamp shade, and a low light utility caused by a too-large illumination range. |
| US08388179B2 |
Lighting systems
The invention disclosed relates to a light housing adapted to retain a light source. The light housing has a first reflector and a second reflector mounted to rotate concentrically about a main axis. A transmission system is present between the first and second reflector. Rotation of the first reflector in a first direction about the main axis rotates the second reflectors via the transmission system at the same angular velocity as the first reflector about the main axis to retain the same relative angular position between the first and second reflectors. Rotation of the first reflector in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction, rotates the second reflector, via the transmission system to vary the relative angular position between the first and second reflector. |
| US08388176B2 |
Light source device and display device
A light source device and a display device in which wrinkle or warpage of sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members is prevented or minimized. A light source device (2b) includes sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) arranged to control properties of light that passes therethrough and a chassis (11b) to which the sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) are attached, the chassis (11b) includes a plurality of fitting protrusions (hooks) (114a, 114b, 114c) that are vertically movable and are pushed upward by pushing mechanisms in a normal usage state, a plurality of fitting holes (261) each having a through hole shape are disposed adjacent to upper sides of the sheet-shaped or film-shaped optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) in the normal usage state, and the optical members (26a, 26b, 26c) are hung on the fitting protrusions (114a, 114b, 114c) of the chassis (11b) in the fitting holes (261). |
| US08388175B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device (100, 200, 300, 400) is disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of light sources (111, 119, 120, 211, 219, 220) providing light in different wavelengths, a collimating means (104, 204) having a receiving end (103, 203, 407) and an output end (114, 214, 409), wherein said light sources are arranged at said receiving end. The collimating means comprises a set of wavelength selective filters (109, 110, 115, 116, 117, 118, 215, 217) arranged as sub-collimators (106, 107, 108, 206, 207, 208) to each of said plurality of light sources such that, for each light source, said sub-collimator collimates the light from its light source, and said wavelength selective filter of said each light source is translucent for light from adjacent light sources of different wavelength, and a second set of wavelength selective filters comprising compensation filters (222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232) wherein each compensation filter is arranged symmetrically with respect to corresponding part of the wavelength selective filter of said first set around a general light direction of the corresponding light source. |
| US08388168B1 |
Solar extendable tray mailbox
A mailbox with a slidable tray to withdraw the contents therein and a solar powered illuminable, configurable display to enhance visibility of the dwelling number after nightfall. |
| US08388166B2 |
Lighting apparatus with a boost
Lighting apparatus and structures are described to space electrical drivers from a light panel. In this way, a driver box housing the driver can be spaced from the light panel to communicate with pre-existing facilities (e.g. electrical wiring) and can serve the additional advantage of keeping the driver box out of standing water that may accumulate on the structure. |
| US08388163B2 |
Marine LED lighting system and method
A method and apparatus of lighting a marine habitat for growth utilizing an LED light system. The light system includes an LED light source, a power supply for such light source and a controller for controlling the activation status and the intensity of the LED light source. |
| US08388158B2 |
Appliance with an improved solid state device lighting
An appliance includes a cabinet, a solid state lighting device assembly integrated in the cabinet, and a power controller coupled to the solid state lighting device assembly for supplying electrical power to the solid state lighting device lighting assembly. The power controller is configured to provide a pulse modulated power signal to the solid state lighting device assembly that has a duty cycle. Each solid state lighting device in the solid state lighting device assembly cycles on and off in accordance with duty cycle. |
| US08388156B2 |
Backlight apparatus and keyboard
A backlight apparatus includes a light-guiding plate, two first light-emitting members and two second light-emitting members. The light-guiding plate has a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge. The light-guiding plate has two first recesses and two second recesses. The two first light-emitting members are disposed in the two first recesses respectively, and the two second light-emitting members are disposed in the two second recesses respectively. The two first light-emitting members are rotated at a predetermined angle respectively, such that first light-emitting axes of the two first light-emitting members tend toward the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate respectively. Besides, second light-emitting axes of the two second light-emitting members are parallel to the first edge and the second edge of the light-guiding plate. |
| US08388154B2 |
Cube-corner retroreflective article
A cube-corner retroreflective article is provided with a number of cube-corner retroreflective element pairs each formed by a pair of cube-corner retroreflective elements sharing one side. Each of the cube-corner retroreflective elements has reflective lateral surfaces including two trapezoidal reflective lateral surfaces and one pentagonal or isosceles-triangular reflective lateral surface, and a projection shape of a quadrangle when projected onto a common plane, wherein ratios (rHA/rHC and rHB/rHC) between a length (rHC) of a ridge (HC) shared by the trapezoidal reflective lateral surfaces (HAFC and HBGC) and lengths (rHA and rHB) of other ridges (HA and HB) are in a range of 0.5 to 1.5. |
| US08388152B2 |
Light-emitting device and projector
A light-emitting device includes a circuit board, a light-emitting element, a light-condensing element, and a glue. The circuit board has through holes, a first surface, and a second surface. The through hole has a first pathway and a second pathway. The first pathway extends from the first surface into the circuit board. The second pathway extends from the second surface into the circuit board and communicates with the first pathway. An accommodating space of the second pathway is greater than that of the first pathway. The light-emitting element is disposed on and electrically connected to the first surface. The light-condensing element has positioning posts. A portion of the light-condensing element is disposed on the light-emitting element. The positioning post passes through the first pathway and is located inside the second pathway. The glue is disposed in the second pathway for fixing the positioning posts in the through hole. |
| US08388151B2 |
Object aware, transformable projection system
An interactive image projecting device that projects an image onto a display surface and controls the projected image based upon the detection or identification of the device housing or the remote object. The device has a touch-sensitive, flexible housing that may be transformed into different shapes. The image projecting device includes a projector that generates an image from a control unit. The device includes an illuminating emitter, which illuminates the device body and remote objects, and a light sensor that is operable to detect the position of its housing or remote object. Based upon the sensed housing or remote object, the control unit operates to modify the image projected from the device such that the image from the device can interact with its housing or remote object. |
| US08388149B2 |
Projector with super luminescent diode
A projector includes: a light emitting device; a light modulation device adapted to modulate a light beam emitted from the light emitting device; and a projection device adapted to project the image formed by the light modulation device, wherein the light emitting device includes a light emitting element formed of a super luminescent diode, and adapted to emit light, and a base supporting the light emitting element with first and second reflecting surfaces to reflect the light emitted from the light emitting element. The light emitting element emits the light from first and second end surfaces. Directions of first and second outgoing light respectively emitted from the first and second end surfaces are opposite to each other. Directions of the first and second reflected light respectively reflected by the first and second reflecting surfaces are the same as each other. |
| US08388147B2 |
Screen assembly and rear-projection type graphic display device
A screen assembly and a rear-projection type graphic display device are provided to block overscanned light Lo projected outside a fresnel lens screen. The screen assembly 20A includes the fresnel lens screen 21, a screen retainer 22 and a light blocking member 23. The fresnel lens screen 21 forms an image on the side of a front surface 21b by image light Le incoming through a back surface 21a. The screen retainer 22 has a back surface 22a whose area is larger than the back surface 21a and the front surface 21b and which is opposed to the front surface 21b to hold it, and a front surface 22b located on opposite side of the back surface 22a to allow an image formed by the image light incoming through the back surface 21a to be visible through the front surface 22b. The screen retainer 22 has an optical transparency. The light blocking member 23 is arranged so as to surround respective side surfaces of the screen 21 in the form of a frame. At least part of the light blocking member 23 is arranged so as to project to the side of the back surface 21a of the screen. |
| US08388137B2 |
System and method for analyzing wavefront aberrations
A method of creating a statistical model for use in predicting vision correction prescriptions for patients is disclosed. The method comprises obtaining a plurality of wavefront aberration measurements from a plurality of patient's eyes, obtaining a plurality of visual acuity measurements from the plurality of patients, applying values associated with the plurality of wavefront measurements to an input layer of a statistical model, applying values associated with the plurality of visual acuity measurements to an output layer of the statistical model, and generating a plurality of weight values associated with respective nodes of the statistical model based on the applied values associated with the plurality of wavefront measurements and corresponding values associated with the plurality of visual acuity measurements. |
| US08388136B2 |
Methods and devices for measuring tear film and diagnosing tear disorders
Methods and devices measure eye blinks and tear film lipid and aqueous layer thickness before and following ophthalmic formula application onto the ocular surface, especially wherein the ophthalmic formula is an artificial tear. The methods and devices are suitable for dry eye diagnosis. The methods and devices are suitable for use to evaluate ophthalmic formula effects on the tear film and to use such information to diagnose ophthalmic formula treatment of ocular disease conditions such as dry eye in the absence of contact lens wear or post-surgical eye drop treatment and diagnosis. The methods and devices are also suitable for use in the optimization of ophthalmic drug dosage forms and sustained drug release. |
| US08388130B2 |
Non-deforming contact lens
The present invention is directed to a non-deforming contact lens comprising a central zone and a peripheral zone, wherein the central zone has a radius of curvature approximately equivalent to a central curvature of an underlying cornea, wherein the central zone is progressively aspheric with an initial zone approximately elliptical and then progressing to a parabolic shape and then to a hyperbolic shape. The peripheral zone reverses the progressive asphericity of the central zone, and includes a terminating local radius that is shorter than a radius at a junction of the central zone and the peripheral zone. |
| US08388127B2 |
Vision assistance device having conductive transparent thin film
A vision assistance device includes a lens based on a transparent material, a conductive transparent thin film contacting the lens and containing carbon nanotubes, electrodes electrically connected to the conductive transparent thin film, and a portable power supply electrically connected to the electrodes. The vision assistance device prevents fogging and retains heat. |
| US08388124B2 |
Printing ink
The present invention relates to a radiation-curable ink-jet ink comprising at least two monofunctional (meth)acrylate monomers; a monofunctional monomer selected from an N-vinyl amide, an N-acryloyl amine, or a mixture thereof; a polymerisable (meth)acrylate oligomer; a radical photoinitiator; and a colouring agent; wherein the ink has a viscosity of less than 100 mPas at 25° C. The ink is substantially free of multifunctional monomers; and the at least two monofunctional (meth)acrylate monomers include a combination of a cyclic monofunctional (meth)acrylate monomer and an acyclic-hydrocarbon monofunctional (meth)acrylate monomer. The ink displays an excellent balance of cure speed and viscosity for the ink together with hardness and flexibility for the cured film. |
| US08388123B2 |
Fluid cartridge having feature to clear bracket riser surfaces
A fluid cartridge for a fluid-jet precision-dispensing device includes a supply of fluid, a fluid interconnect element, and a feature. The fluid interconnect element establishes a fluid interconnection with a corresponding fluid interconnect element of a bracket upon mating of the fluid cartridge with the bracket. The fluid interconnection permits the fluid from the fluid cartridge to be supplied to the bracket. The feature is adapted to physically clear riser surfaces of the bracket upon mating of the fluid cartridge with the bracket so that the fluid cartridge properly mates with the bracket. The riser surfaces of the bracket at least substantially reduce a likelihood of damage to the corresponding fluid interconnect element by the fluid cartridge during mating of the fluid cartridge with the bracket. |
| US08388121B2 |
Liquid-jetting apparatus
A liquid-jetting apparatus includes: a liquid-jetting head which jets the liquid; a liquid tank which stores the liquid; a first flow passage which connects the liquid-jetting head and the liquid tank; a gas-liquid separating section which is arranged on the first flow passage and which separates the liquid and a gas in the liquid; a gas communication passage which connects the gas-liquid separating section and the liquid tank and through which the gas in the gas-liquid separating section is transported to the liquid tank; a second flow passage which communicates an upstream side and a down stream side of the gas-liquid separating section; and a switching mechanism which selectively switches between a first passage route for supplying the liquid through only the first flow passage and a second passage route for supplying the liquid through the second flow passage. |
| US08388119B2 |
Liquid container and image forming apparatus including the liquid container
A liquid container stores liquid to be supplied to a liquid ejection head. The liquid container includes a liquid storage chamber that stores externally supplied liquid, a first delivery channel through which the liquid is delivered from the liquid storage chamber to the liquid ejection head, and a second delivery channel through which the liquid is delivered from the liquid storage chamber to the liquid ejection head. The second delivery channel has an inlet positioned lower than an inlet of the first delivery channel in a height direction of the liquid storage chamber. |
| US08388118B2 |
Ink jet printing
A continuous ink jet printer comprising an ink gun for forming an ink jet; an arrangement of electrodes for trapping electric charges on ink drops of the ink jet and for creating an electrostatic field for deflecting drops carrying trapped electric charges; and a gutter having an ink-receiving orifice for receiving ink drops of the ink jet which are not used for printing; a gutter flow path for flow of ink from the ink-receiving orifice of the gutter, through and away from the gutter; an air recirculation line for conveying at least some of any air that has passed with the ink along at least a part of the gutter flow path so as to re-enter the gutter flow path either through the ink-receiving orifice or through a connection into the gutter flow path downstream of the ink-receiving orifice; and a vent for venting at least some of the air that has passed with the ink along at least a part of the gutter flow path so as not to re-enter the gutter flow path. |
| US08388117B2 |
Method of making an inkjet printhead
A method of making an inkjet printhead comprises forming a first patterned layer 20 on a surface of a first substrate 10, forming a second patterned layer 28 on a surface of a second substrate 100, bonding the first and second layers in intimate face-to-face contact, and removing the second substrate 100 from the second patterned layer 28. The first and second patterned layers 20, 28 together define at least one ink ejection chamber having at least one ink ejection nozzle. |
| US08388116B2 |
Printhead unit
Piezoelectric unit, comprising a fluid chamber, a fluid outlet, an actuator, comprising a thin film piezoceramic element and a membrane, acting as a wall of the fluid chamber, and a support element arranged for preventing a supported portion of the actuator from movement in a main direction of actuation movement of the actuator, while allowing such actuation movement on at least two sides of the supported portion, wherein the support element is connected to a unit portion that extends approximately opposite to the actuator. |
| US08388108B2 |
Liquid droplet spraying apparatus and method
The liquid droplet spraying apparatus includes a chamber containing a fluid; a nozzle body having a nozzle for spraying the fluid in the chamber to one side of a material to be printed; an electrostatic spray module which is arranged in the vicinity of the chamber or the nozzle, and which forms an electrostatic field for the fluid contained in the chamber to provide a first spray force for spraying the fluid via the nozzle to form a liquid droplet; a physical spray module which is arranged in the chamber and opposite the nozzle, and which provides a second spray force for assisting the first spray force when the first spray force is generated; and a control unit for controlling the electrostatic spray module and the physical spray module such that the first spray force and the second spray force can be provided in a specific pattern.The liquid droplet spraying apparatus includes a chamber containing a fluid; a nozzle body having a nozzle for spraying the fluid in the chamber to one side of a material to be printed; an electrostatic spray module which is arranged in the vicinity of the chamber or the nozzle, and which forms an electrostatic field for the fluid contained in the chamber to provide a first spray force for spraying the fluid via the nozzle to form a liquid droplet; a physical spray module which is arranged in the chamber and opposite the nozzle, and which provides a second spray force for assisting the first spray force when the first spray force is generated; and a control unit for controlling the electrostatic spray module and the physical spray module such that the first spray force and the second spray force can be provided in a specific pattern. |
| US08388107B2 |
Latch for a liquid dispenser
In one embodiment, a latch for a liquid dispensing component includes: a first part for holding a liquid dispensing component in a seated position in a holder, the first part movable between an open position in which the component may be installed in or removed from the holder and a closed position in which the component is held in the seated position in the holder; and a second part for connecting the component to a liquid supply port, the second part movable, while the first part is in the closed position, between a disconnected position in which the component is not connected to the liquid supply port and a connected position in which the component is connected to the liquid supply port. |
| US08388106B2 |
Ink discharge head and manufacturing method thereof
An ink discharge head includes a coating resin layer having a plurality of discharge ports for discharging ink, and ink flow passages which communicate with the plurality of discharge ports, respectively; and a substrate having energy generation elements which generate the energy for discharging ink and provided with the coating resin layer. A crack inducing portion for relieving the stress produced at the interface between the coating resin layer and the substrate is formed at lateral faces of the outer peripheral edge of the coating resin layer. |
| US08388102B2 |
Image forming apparatus, maintenance assembly usable with image forming apparatus, and method thereof
A method of maintaining a fluid applicator unit of an image forming apparatus in which the fluid applicator unit includes a nozzle surface having nozzles is disclosed. The method includes ejecting fluid through nozzles of a fluid applicator unit of an image forming apparatus during a maintenance mode to maintain flow paths therethrough such that the fluid is emitted from the nozzles in a form of fluid drops. The method also includes receiving the fluid drops emitted from the nozzles during the maintenance mode on a receiving member to form waste liquid therefrom and directing the waste liquid from the receiving member to a waste receiving unit through a liquid passage. The method also includes directing aerosol formed from the fluid drops emitted from the nozzles to the aerosol receiving unit through an aerosol passage such that the aerosol passage is separate from the liquid passage and receiving the aerosol directed to the aerosol receiving unit. |
| US08388101B2 |
Liquid ejection device
A liquid ejection device includes a liquid ejection head and a capping mechanism. The liquid ejection head includes nozzles for ejecting a dispersion liquid having charged solid particles dispersed in a dispersion medium. The capping mechanism covers the nozzles and receiving the liquid. The capping mechanism includes a cap member, a solid/liquid separation chamber, and a waste liquid tank. The cap member is configured to receive the liquid discharged through the nozzles. The solid/liquid separation chamber is configured to store the liquid and to separate the liquid into the solid particles and the dispersion medium. The dispersion medium separated from the solid particles flows into the waste liquid tank. The solid/liquid separation chamber has a pair of electrodes in contact with the liquid stored therein so that voltage is applied to the electrodes to allow the solid particles to precipitate on a surface of one of the electrodes. |
| US08388095B2 |
Customization of curable ink prints by molding
A system has a print head to dispense ink onto a print surface to form a printed image, a molding surface to contact the ink to form an informational image in at least the surface of the ink, and a radiation source to solidify the ink into the printed and informational images. A method includes dispensing ink onto a print medium to form a printed image, pressing a molding surface onto the printed image to transfer an informational image onto the printed image, and solidify the ink into the printed and informational images. |
| US08388094B2 |
Wide format printer with input roller and movable media engagement output
A wide format printer that has a print zone where droplets of ink print onto media, a drive roller configured to translate the media into the print zone and a movable media engagement assembly for vacuum engagement of one side of the media to draw the media away from the print zone wherein, the print zone is more than 432 mm (17 inches) wide. |
| US08388090B2 |
Printing apparatus and print controlling method
In conveying a print medium before and after a stop-unstable region in a printing apparatus, an image quality is improved while restricting a reduction of a throughput. Specifically a conveying amount is made smaller than a first conveying amount in a usual region. Thereby, the first conveying amount is maximized and the printing in the image region can be complemented by four times of scans after the conveyance of the conveying amount is completed. |
| US08388088B2 |
Dot position measurement method and apparatus, and computer readable medium
The dot position measurement method includes: a line pattern forming step of forming a measurement line pattern including a plurality of lines formed by dot sequences corresponding to respective recording elements on a recording medium, by continuously recording dots by the recording elements while causing a recording head having the recording elements and the recording medium to move relatively to each other in a relative movement direction, the measurement line pattern including: a plurality of line blocks each constituted of a group of lines to be recorded using the recording elements spaced a prescribed interval apart in an effective direction of alignment of the recording elements which is perpendicular to the relative movement direction, the line blocks being formed at mutually different positions in a lengthwise direction of the lines on the recording medium; and a reference line block containing lines to be recorded by the recording elements which are common respectively with the recording elements forming the line blocks; a reading step of reading the measurement line pattern formed on the recording medium in the line pattern forming step by an image reading device, and acquiring electronic image data representing a read image of the measurement line pattern; a position-in-line-block identifying step of identifying line positions in each of the line blocks and the reference line block, from the read image acquired in the reading step; and a position correcting step of correcting the line positions of the line blocks determined in the position-in-line-block identifying step in accordance with the reference line block, by employing a correction function using a piecewise polynomial expression. |
| US08388087B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus and method of controlling same
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a recording head that has a first column of nozzles, in which nozzles that eject dye ink are provided in line in a sub-scanning direction intersecting a main scanning direction of the recording head and recording paper, and a second column of nozzles, in which nozzles that eject pigment ink are provided in line in parallel to the first column of nozzles, which are disposed side by side in the main scanning direction. The liquid ejecting apparatus also includes a control section that adjusts an ejection amount of at least one of the dye ink and the pigment ink by changing a driving signal in accordance with the landing sequence of the dye ink and the pigment ink on the recording paper. |
| US08388080B2 |
Recording control system
In a recording control system, the selecting unit selects at least one pixel from among the pixels in the detection region such that a number of the selected at least one pixel is smaller than a total number of the pixels in the detection region. The determining unit determines whether a pixel value of the selected pixel satisfies a criterion. The recording head ejects ink based on pixel data of the first region while scanning in the first direction. The recording head ejects ink based on pixel data of the second region adjacent to the first region while scanning in the first direction when the pixel value of the selected at least one pixel satisfies the criterion. The recording head ejects ink based on pixel data of the second region while scanning in the second direction when the pixel value of the selected pixel does not satisfy the criterion. |
| US08388075B2 |
Cabinet for electronic equipment
A cabinet includes a housing, two first rails, two pairs of pivoting elements, and two second rails. The housing includes two doors pivotably mounted to opposite sides of a front end of the housing. The first rails are respectively fixed to opposite internal sides of the housing. First ends of a pair of pivoting elements are pivotably connected to an inner side of each of the doors, and second ends of the pair of pivoting elements of each of the doors are pivotably connected a corresponding one of the second rails. When the doors are opened parallel to the first rails, the second rails are operable to move relative to the corresponding doors and aligned with the corresponding first rails to form two extended sliding rails. |
| US08388072B2 |
Crawler vehicle track grouser
A grouser for crawler vehicle tracks defined by a fastening member which extends in a first direction substantially crosswise to a second traveling direction of a track, is fixed to at least one supporting belt of the track, and has an inner cavity open laterally in the first direction. The grouser includes a toothed gripping member projecting from the fastening member to grip the terrain. The grouser also includes two plugs for closing the inner cavity laterally in the first direction. |
| US08388070B2 |
Mining machine, in particular surface miner, as well as method for the removal and installation of a transport device in a mining machine
In a mining machine (1) for the processing of a ground (3), in particular surface miner, with a machine frame (2), a cutting drum (4) mounted in the machine frame (2), a first transport device (6), which accepts mining material from the cutting drum (4), a second transport device (12), which accepts the mining material from the first transport device (6) at a point of acceptance (18) that is arranged at the lower end (14) of the second transport device (12) and is located below the upper end (22) of the first transport device (6), a conveyor suspension device (10) for the second transport device (12), which is mounted at the machine frame (2) to slew about a vertical slewing axis (8), where the second transport device (12) is pivotable about a first horizontal pivoting axis (24) that runs transverse to the longitudinal direction of the second transport device (12) and is mounted in the conveyor suspension device (10), and where the vertical slewing axis (8) of the conveyor suspension device (10) runs essentially centrally through the point of acceptance (18), it is provided that the conveyor suspension device (10), together with the second transport device (12), is pivotable, relative to the machine frame (2), about a second horizontal pivoting axis (28). |
| US08388068B2 |
Locking and releasing mechanism for vehicle seat
A locking and releasing mechanism for a seat having a first fitting part associated with one of a seat part and a backrest and a second fitting part associated with the other one of the seat part and the backrest that may be locked and released relative to one another by the mechanism is disclosed. The mechanism includes a detent pawl configured to selectively latch the first fitting part to lock a displacement of the first and second fitting parts relative to one another and a detent plate configured to be reversibly displaced between a detent position, wherein the detent plate locks the detent pawl so that the detent pawl remains latched with the first fitting part, and a release position, wherein the detent plate allows the detent pawl to be released from the first fitting part. |
| US08388066B2 |
Height adjustment mechanism for a chair
A height adjustment mechanism is disclosed that includes a pedestal height variability mechanism. The pedestal height variability mechanism includes a first member and a biasing mechanism. The biasing mechanism is configured to hold the first member in a first position. The first member has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The biasing mechanism has a first portion attached to the first member adjacent the first end of the first member. The biasing mechanism also has a second portion attached to the first member adjacent to the second end of the first member. Preferably, a second member is also provided that is moveably attached to the first member. The second member may be configured such that movement of the second member actuates height adjustment of a chair. |
| US08388062B2 |
Profile for fastening a cover on a vehicular seat headrest
A profile (9) which can be connected to a cover (4) serves to fasten the cover (4) on a supporting body (2). According to the invention, it is provided that the profile has a recess (17) for receiving a connecting region, in particular a seam (6), of cover segments (5.1, 5.2) of an at least two-piece cover. |
| US08388060B2 |
Headrest-mounted entertainment systems
In certain embodiments, a mobile entertainment system includes a housing configured to be attached to the mounting plate of a headrest. The housing can include a base wall and a plurality of sidewalls configured to define a cavity within the headrest when the housing is coupled to the headrest. The housing can further include a first hinge element. In some embodiments, the system includes a screen structure that includes a metal frame. The screen structure can further include a second hinge element secured to the metal frame and coupled with the first hinge element so as to be able to pivotally attach the screen structure to the headrest. The screen structure can be configured to rotate relative to the housing independent of movement of the headrest. In some embodiments, the system further includes a headrest, which can include a mounting plate. The mounting plate can be coupled with at least one post. In some embodiments, the at least one post is configured to be slidably received within a seatback of a vehicle. |
| US08388055B1 |
Portable table and seating combination
A portable table and seating combination is disclosed. The combination includes at least a first portion of a hinge attached to a tabletop portion. The tabletop portion includes at least a top surface, and a plurality of edge portions extending from the top surface. The top surface in combination with the plurality of edge portions forms a seating confinement compartment. The combination further includes at least a retractable leg support attached to the tabletop portion. The retractable leg support resides adjacent the seating confinement compartment, and in an extended position the retractable leg support, supports the tabletop portion at a predetermined distance above a surface. The combination also includes at least a seating portion configured for confinement within the seating confinement compartment. In a first embodiment, the seating portion is an integrated seating portion. In an alternate embodiment, the seating portion is a freestanding seating portion. |
| US08388053B2 |
Roof apparatus
A roof apparatus includes a guide rail extending in a front-rear direction of a vehicle, a drive shoe slidable along the guide rail, a functional bracket supporting a movable panel, a front link member relatively rotatably connected at a front portion of the functional bracket and including a supporting portion supported by a supporting wall portion of the guide rail, a lifting mechanism connected to a rear portion of the functional bracket, a weather strip attached at an opening edge portion of a roof panel, the supporting wall portion of the guide rail and the supporting portion of the front link member are located inwardly of an outer end surface of the movable panel in a vehicle width direction, the drive shoe is located below the weather strip, and the front link member is located between the supporting wall portion and the drive shoe in the vehicle width direction. |
| US08388052B2 |
Deflector apparatus for vehicle
A deflector apparatus for a vehicle includes the deflector body configured to be provided along a front edge portion of an opening portion formed on a roof portion of a vehicle and to be deployed by projecting above a surface of the roof portion. The deflector body includes a mesh member extending along the front edge portion of the opening portion. The deflector apparatus for the vehicle also includes a pair of resin frames provided at end portions of the mesh member in a widthwise direction of the mesh member respectively to extend in a lengthwise direction of the mesh member over an entire length of the mesh member. The pair of resin frames is resin-molded integrally with the mesh member and covers the end portions of the mesh member including edges of the mesh member in the widthwise direction of the mesh member. |
| US08388050B2 |
Roof apparatus for vehicle
A roof apparatus includes an engaging groove being in communication with an inside of a guide rail at a rear portion, an engaging projection provided at a check member for stopping movement of the check member in a rearward direction of the vehicle by fitting into the groove and for canceling the stopping of the movement by being disengaged from the groove and entering into the guide rail, a cam recessed portion provided at the check member for maintaining the fitting state of the projection relative to the groove until a movable panel starts sliding by inserting a guide pin provided at a driving shoe thereto and for rotating the check member to disengage the projection from the groove when the panel starts sliding, and a restriction portion supporting the check member for restricting the disengagement of the projection from the groove during a tilting operation of the panel. |
| US08388049B2 |
Undercarriage assembly and method
An undercarriage assembly and related method for motor vehicles includes a base and a support positioned adjacent to the base at a connection area. At least one nail is inserted into the support and the base of the connection area, which rigidly connects the support with the base without any pre-formed fastener holes. |
| US08388045B2 |
Refrigerator van
A refrigerator van is provided, wherein a body of the refrigerator van includes a base frame, a pair of side panels disposed on the base frame, a front wall and a door end and a roof sheet. The front wall and a door end are disposed at two ends of each of the side panels oppositely. The side panels or the roof sheet or the front wall of the body includes a plurality of metal plates with a preset length, a plurality of connecting ribs and a pair of wing plates. Each metal plate is formed with a bending edge, and each connecting rib includes a locking slot for accommodating the bending edges of two adjacent metal plates. The wing plates extend from an opening of the locking slot, respectively, for connecting the metal plates. |
| US08388043B2 |
Sliding window assembly
A sliding window assembly for a vehicle comprises a first fixed panel and a second fixed panel spaced from the first fixed panel. A sliding panel is movable relative to the fixed panels. A rail is coupled to the fixed panels. The rail has a channel portion for receiving the sliding panel and an attachment portion extending from the channel portion. The attachment portion has an interior surface. The sliding window assembly further comprises an elongated member that couples the rail to the fixed panels. The elongated member partially encapsulates the rail with a portion of the interior surface of the attachment portion free of the elongated member to present an exposed bonding surface. The exposed bonding surface allows the rail to be bonded to the flange of the vehicle for mounting the sliding window assembly to the vehicle. |
| US08388041B2 |
Spare tire installation structure
A spare tire installation structure for a vehicle has a first rigid member disposed within a trunk compartment of the vehicle, and a second rigid member configured vehicle rearward of the first rigid member and disposed within the trunk compartment of the vehicle. The first rigid member and the second rigid member define a space to house a spare tire. The second rigid member is configured to displace the spare tire vehicle forward and into the first rigid member in response to a rear collision to the vehicle. The first rigid member is configured to split a wheel of the spare tire. |
| US08388036B2 |
Retro-fit lift device for refuse collection vehicle
A retro-fit lift device for a front load refuse collection vehicle including a base having a rear surface, a trunnion receiving portion defining a channel, and a pin member movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The rear surface of the base is configured to receive a cross-beam of the front load refuse collection vehicle. The trunnion receiving portion is connected to the base member. At least a portion of the pin member extends into the channel in the extended position. A method of picking up a rear load collection container having a trunnion with a front load refuse collection vehicle is also disclosed. |
| US08388034B2 |
Lift stub
A lift stub with an elongated shaft member that has a longitudinal axis, a proximal end and a distal end. A lift eye element is spaced laterally by a lateral distance from the longitudinal axis, a first distance from the proximal end, and a second distance from the distal end. The lift eye element pivotally mounts a clevis member to the elongated shaft member for rotation about a clevis axis that extends generally normal to the longitudinal axis of the elongated shaft member. The clevis has a throat that is adapted to receiving a lifting hook therein. A foot portion extends from the distal end towards the proximal end for a third distance, which is approximately less than the second distance. A spur element projects generally laterally of the elongated shaft member adjacent the distal end and generally laterally opposed to the lift eye element. |
| US08388033B2 |
Method and apparatus for hoisting objects using a modular lifting beam
A modular lifting beam comprises two, substantially vertical plates held in parallel, spaced-apart relation by one or more spacers. The modular lifting beam is equipped with a set of staggered mounting lugs at each end of the beam. The mounting lugs have holes passing from the upper surface to the lower surface and are configured such that two or more modular beams may be joined together in end-to-end fashion by inserting pins through their vertically-aligned lugs. |
| US08388032B2 |
Textile protective sheath for a lifting accessory, and accessory for lifting loads
A textile protective sheath for a lifting accessory such as a roundsling, lifting strap or the like, having a woven base fabric and at least one rib which is carried by the woven base fabric, which rib projects outwards from the woven base fabric and is formed by a rib fiber which is interwoven with the woven base fabric, wherein the rib fiber is a high-performance fiber and, looking in the direction in which the rib fiber runs, the rib fiber skips at least three weft filaments at a time of the woven base fabric before it is drawn down below a weft filament of the woven base fabric. |
| US08388024B2 |
Double mailer intermediate
A mailer intermediate, foldable into postcard size, includes a generally rectangular sheet of card stock having first and second side edges, first and second end edges, and first and second faces. A fold line extends substantially transverse to the side edges and substantially bisecting them, and dividing the sheet into first and second portions. An adhesive pattern on the first face of the sheet, adjacent at least one of the first and second end edges, secures the first and second portions together adjacent the first and second end edges. An obscuring coating and a camouflage image are provided on the first face of the sheet. Variable indicia are printed on the obscuring coating, and are not legible when viewed by an observer who separates the first and second portions while the first and second portions remain secured together adjacent the first and second end edges. The obscuring coating may comprise a multi-layer, thermochromic coating. Alternatively, the obscuring coating may comprise a reflective coating. |
| US08388023B2 |
Lifting device
The invention relates to a lifting device (10), in particular a semitrailer support or the like, comprising a shank tube (11) and a support tube (12) which is movable with respect to the shank tube, wherein on the shank tube, a lifting gear mechanism (26) is arranged which comprises an input shaft arrangement (27) for connecting a drive device and an output shaft arrangement (28) for driving a lifting spindle (20) which is arranged within the support tube and which rests with one end on a pressure plate (18) arranged within the shank tube and interacts with the moving end with a spindle nut (25) arranged in the support tube, wherein the spindle nut comprises a locking collar (90) with at least two locking devices (107, 108, 109, 110) which interact with locking latches (103, 104, 105, 106) formed on the tube wall of the support tube in such a manner that, with a coaxial alignment of the spindle nut with the support tube, the spindle nut can be inserted, in an assembly rotational angle position, into the support tube, and can be moved by rotating about a longitudinal axis (21) of the support tube into a locking position, in which the locking devices get into engagement with the locking latches. |
| US08388022B2 |
Suspension restraint system
A suspension restraint system for an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) includes a clamp fixed to at least one control arm of a suspension system, the clamp including a post, a rod mount fixed to a frame member, a rod configured to be secured to the rod mount, the rod including a hook, the hook being configured to engage the post of the clamp. The rod is configured to engage said clamp and restrain a movement of the suspension system when the suspension system is in a lowered position relative to the frame member. |
| US08388019B2 |
Airbag module
An airbag module comprising an inflatable airbag; and an inflator configured to provide gas to inflate the airbag; wherein the airbag comprises first and second panels positioned on opposite sides of an inflatable chamber; wherein each of the panels include a peripheral portion and an interior portion; wherein a portion of the interior portion is a covered portion; wherein a portion outside of the covered portion of the interior portions of the first and second panels are connected together to thereby limit the inflation of a portion of the inflatable chamber; and wherein the airbag is configured so that the connection between the interior portions of the first and second panels is released during inflation of the airbag in order to permit an increase in the volume of the inflatable chamber. |
| US08388007B2 |
Robust bicycle having hollow unitary frame
A bicycle construction includes a unitary frame having a “Y” shape formed by a central longitudinal bar, a lower bar and an arcuate medial bar. The central longitudinal bar is bifurcated at its trailing end, forming first and second rear wheel mounting members that are positioned on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the unitary frame. A first bore formed in the common leading end of the central longitudinal bar and the lower bar accommodates a handlebar tube. A second bore formed in a trailing end of the central longitudinal bar accommodates a seat support tube. A third bore formed in a trailing end of the lower bar accommodates a primary socket wheel axle. Fourth and fifth bores formed in respective trailing ends of the first and second wheel mounting members in cooperatively aligned relation to one another accommodate a secondary sprocket wheel axle. |
| US08388006B2 |
Motorized vehicle with foldable frame and locking mechanism
A locking mechanism for a foldable motorized vehicle for locking a main frame body thereof comprises a pulling arm, locking shafts, shaft sleeves, elastic elements, and locking pins. The shaft sleeves are fixedly positioned in parallel below the main frame body and respectively sleeved on the locking shafts. Each of the locking pins is fixed on one end of a corresponding locking shaft and penetrates corresponding locking holes on the main frame body. Each elastic elements is sleeved on the corresponding locking shaft and pressing against the locking shaft and the corresponding shaft sleeve, respectively. The pulling arm comprises a pulling rod pivoted on one end of one locking shaft, and a connecting member with one end pivoted on one end of the other locking shaft, and the other end pivoted on the pulling rod. |
| US08388005B2 |
Foldable scooter
Embodiments of the invention describe a quadrilateral frame to be utilized by a two-wheeled vehicle. The quadrilateral frame may include front and rear vertical assemblies, top and bottom collapsible horizontal assemblies, the horizontal assemblies to collapse vertically. By collapsing the horizontal assemblies of the quadrilateral frame, it is to be understood that the space occupied by the vehicle when it is not in use is significantly reduced. |
| US08388002B1 |
Self-leveling air spring suspension system
A suspension system includes a plurality of suspension members, each suspension member including a housing having an interior surface that bounds a chamber and a piston slidably disposed within the chamber. The piston seals against the interior surface of the housing so as to separate the chamber into a first compartment and a second compartment, the first compartment and second compartment being filled with a gas. A first gas lines extends in fluid communication between the first compartment of a first suspension member and the second compartment of a second suspension member. A second gas lines extends in fluid communication between the second compartment of a first suspension member and the first compartment of a second suspension member. |
| US08388001B2 |
Transverse control arm
A transverse control arm for a motor vehicle is produced in one piece from a sheet metal blank. The transverse control arm includes a base body region with bearing regions formed thereon. A bearing journal is arranged in a bearing region with a material joint. The material joint is oriented in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the bearing journal, thereby providing a transverse control arm with high durability. |
| US08387993B2 |
Sealing device and method of producing the same
A sealing device for sealing a first side against a second side of a machine part, wherein the sealing device has a sealing element which contacts a counter element. At least a part of the sealing element and/or at least a part of the counter element is coated with a layer consisting of or containing fullerene-like carbon nitride (FL-CNx), wherein an inter-layer of chromium (Cr) or aluminum (Al) or molybdenum (Mo) or titanium (Ti) or tungsten (W) or a diamond-like coating (DLC) or a metal-mix diamond-like coating (Me-DLC) is arranged between the surface of the sealing element and the layer consisting of or containing fullerene-like carbon nitride and/or between the surface of the counter element and the layer consisting of or containing fullerene-like carbon nitride. |
| US08387992B2 |
Sealing device with encoder
To reduce an axial installation width of a sealing device 1 comprising an oil seal 5 mounted in an inner periphery of a shaft hole 3 of a housing 2 and slidably contacted with an outer periphery of a rotating shaft 4 and a magnetic encoder 6 mounted on the rotating shaft 4 so as to be rotated therewith, as well as to improve sealing performance, the oil seal 5 is provided with a metal ring 7 having at least a part thereof disposed at an inner periphery side of the cylindrical portion 10b in the magnetic encoder 6 so that the oil seal 5 and magnetic encoder 6 are overlapped with each other in an axial direction, and the oil seal 5 is provided with a seal lip 8e formed with a rubber-like elastic body and disposed towards an interior side A of a housing. |
| US08387991B2 |
Sealing assembly
A sealing assembly provides a seal between a first element and a second element, the first element being movable with respect to the second element, wherein the sealing assembly comprises: a sealing member adjacent to the first and second elements; a first seal portion for providing a first seal between the sealing member and the first element, the first seal portion being arranged in a first direction; and a second seal portion for providing a second seal between the sealing member and the second element, the second seal portion being arranged in a second direction, wherein the first direction is arranged at an angle with respect to the second direction and the sealing member is disposed such that the sealing member is movable relative to the second element in the second direction. |
| US08387988B2 |
Pattern building game assembly with launching apparatus and methods
A game apparatus and a method using trays as the game board with vertical support columns, two sets of playing pieces and two launching devices. The one or more vertical support columns attach to the one or more trays to support the trays horizontally above a support surface. On the surface of each of the trays is a matrix and each element of the matrix has a recessed compartment orthogonal to the surface of the tray. Each recessed compartment is sized to hold a multiplicity of both types of playing pieces in a stacked manner. The launching devices are used to launch the playing pieces from the launching devices into the recessed compartments on the trays. Games are played with two or more players and the object of the game is for one player to be the first to build a predetermined pattern. |
| US08387984B2 |
Manipulative three-dimensional puzzle
A manipulative three-dimensional puzzle including a shell member formed with a plurality of tracks including a first set of tracks and a second set of tracks, the first and second sets of tracks intersecting each other at a plurality of crossroads, the first and second sets of tracks together extending at least partially over a height, length and width of the shell member, and a plurality of puzzle pieces and a plurality of spacers movably positioned in the first and second sets of tracks, wherein for each track at least one spacer is between two puzzle pieces, and wherein moving one of the puzzle pieces in one of the tracks causes all the puzzle pieces and spacers in that track to move together along that track. |
| US08387981B2 |
Billiard ball mixing device and wagering game
A billiard ball mixing device and wagering game provide an entertaining and enticing wagering game that utilizes billiard balls during play. The wagering game may utilize billiard balls to determine winning and losing outcomes. The mixing device may accept the billiard balls via an access point and have one or more stationary or movable agitators to mix the billiard balls, placing the balls into a random order. In one or more embodiments, the billiard balls may be removed from the mixing device preserving the random order. In this manner, winning and losing outcomes may be determined based on the randomized billiard balls. |
| US08387980B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus including: a plurality of medium trays to stack a print medium having an image formed thereon by an image forming unit; a driving source to momentarily apply a direction switching signal; a selector to select a carrying path of the print medium having the image formed thereon, the carrying path directing the print medium to one of the plurality of medium trays; and a switch unit connected to the driving source to set a position of the selector in order to direct the print medium along the carrying path according to the direction switching signal. Accordingly, power is only used momentarily to direct the print medium to a medium tray from among a plurality of medium trays. |
| US08387979B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus, document reading apparatus and method for feeding sheet
The sheet feeding apparatus of the invention includes a driving roller that is rotated by a predetermined driving source, a driven roller that rotates in response to movement of said driving roller, said driven roller being placed opposite said driving roller and having contact with a roller surface of said driving roller, a pressing member that presses a roller surface of said driven roller toward said roller surface of driving roller at a predetermined pressure, and driven roller holding member that includes an opening being elongated in a tangential direction at a contact point between said driven roller and said driving roller or between said driven roller and a sheet, on a circle forming said roller surface of said driven roller. |
| US08387977B2 |
Paper sheet processing device
A paper sheet processing apparatus capable of preventing paper sheet clogging in a traveling route in which a paper sheet is conveyed is provided. The paper sheet processing apparatus comprises an open/close member 2B which is opened or closed with respect to a frame 2A and a traveling route through which the paper sheet (a bill, a card, a coupon ticket, and the like are collectively referred to as “paper sheet”) is conveyed is formed between the open/close member 2B and the frame 2A when the open/close member 2B is closed with respect to the frame 2A. The open/close member 2B is provided with a sensor 31 for detecting that the open/close member 2B is opened from the frame 2A. |
| US08387975B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus including, a conveying portion conveying a sheet; a rotation detection portion rotatably provided; a sensor portion detecting the conveyed sheet based on a rotational position of the rotation detection portion; a rotation transmission portion transmitting a rotational driving force to the rotation detection portion to rotate the rotation detection portion in a predetermined rotational direction after the rotation detection portion is rotated by being pushed by the leading end of the sheet; and an urging unit configured to apply an urging force to the rotation detection portion so that the rotation detection portion comes into contact with a surface of the sheet, thereafter the rotation detection portion is returned to a waiting position along with the passage of the rear end of the sheet through the rotation detection portion after the rotation detection portion is rotated by the rotational driving force of the rotation transmitting unit. |
| US08387971B2 |
Media-loaded device and image forming apparatus
A media-loaded device includes a main body and a guide unit. The main body, in which media are stackable, has a first engaging member. The guide unit is movable relative to the main body and has a disengaging member. The disengaging member has a second engaging member that engages with the first engaging member. The second engaging member is disengaged from the first engaging member by an external force applied to the disengaging member in a stacking direction of the media. |
| US08387968B2 |
Recording-material-feeding device and image forming apparatus
A recording-material-feeding device includes a stacking portion that holds a stack of recording materials, a lifting member that moves the stacking portion up and down between a feeding position at which a recording material is fed and a refilling position at which refill recording materials are supplied, a suction member that draws one or more recording materials by suction with a negative pressure, a negative-pressure-generating member that generates the negative pressure, and a stopping member that stops an edge of the stack of recording materials on the stacking portion and includes a sealing member that maintains the level of the negative pressure. The sealing member moves up and down between a retracted position at which refill recording materials are supplied and a sealing position at which the level of the negative pressure is maintained, the sealing member moving with the up-and-down movement of the stacking portion. |
| US08387967B2 |
Apparatus and method for handling stacks of printing media
An apparatus for handling stacks (18) of printing media (11) which are arranged above one another and are made from packaging material, in particular a magazine (16) for excise stamps, coupons or the like, preferably within an apparatus for producing packs (10) for cigarettes, having a shaft (19) for receiving the stack (18), which shaft (19) is delimited at least partially by preferably stationary walls (20) and is, in particular, upright. The shaft (19) can have at least one suction device (25) which acts in regions on the stack (18) in order to hold and/or align the printing media (11) on the wall (20) by means of vacuum. |
| US08387964B2 |
Creasing device and image forming system
A creasing device includes a creasing unit that creases sheets on a one-by-one basis, which is conveyed to a folding device of a subsequent stage, a sheet detection unit that detects a position of a sheet delivered to the creasing device and a control unit that obtains reference information of a fold-position for the folding device and performs control of a stop position of the sheet according to reference information of the fold position, thereby adjusting a crease position. |
| US08387959B2 |
Structure of orifice plate for engine mount filled with magnetorheological fluid
A structure of an orifice plate for an engine mount filled with a magnetorheological (“MR”) fluid may include a core of which a center part may be formed at the center thereof and a blade part may be formed with a plurality of blades protruding in a radial direction from an outer periphery of the center part, and a coil assembly enclosing the outer periphery of the center part and wired up, wherein a gap may be formed between the blades so as to allow the MR fluid to flow between the blades and the coil assembly applied with current magnetizes adjacent blades to have different polarities. |
| US08387958B2 |
Vibration isolator for use in a vacuum
The invention relates to a vibration isolator for use in a vacuum in which mechanical and electrical modules are arranged within a fluid-tight chamber. |
| US08387955B2 |
Interlocking fencing system
A fencing system operable to define a barrier relative to a foundation. The fencing system includes a mount that is operable to be supported by the foundation. The mount includes an upright portion configured to extend from the foundation. The fencing system also includes a first barrier member having a lower bracket that receives the upright portion such that the mount supports the first barrier member generally upright. The fencing system also includes a second barrier member having an upper bracket that receives the upright portion such that the mount supports the second barrier member generally upright and such that the upper bracket substantially overlaps the lower bracket to limit movement of the first barrier member. |
| US08387953B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for an improved vehicle jack having a screw jack assembly
Various embodiments of a vehicle jack an include an elevation assembly and a guide bracket. The elevation assembly includes a threaded member and an elongated support member, with the elongated support member configured to threadedly engage and rotate relative to the threaded member. The guide assembly includes a guide bracket configured to engage the threaded member such that the threaded member moves with the guide assembly as the guide assembly moves along a path defined by a longitudinal axis of the elongated support member. This movement raises or lowers a vehicle positioned on the jack. Various embodiments address the assembly of a vehicle jack by engaging a threaded member with an elongated support member and a guide bracket. Rotation of the elongated support member about its longitudinal axis causes the threaded member to move the guide bracket along a path defined by the longitudinal axis. |
| US08387951B2 |
Apparatus and method of lifting and moving objects
An apparatus and method of lifting and moving an object is disclosed. The apparatus includes a main frame. The main frame includes a mounting surface, a first angle plate, and a second angle plate. The mounting surface has a horizontal section and a vertical section. The first angle plate is coupled to a first wheel plate and the second angle plate is coupled to a second wheel plate. The apparatus also includes a lift and lock bar for raising and lowering the object. The mounting surface includes slots for receiving the object and retainers for preventing the object from sliding off the mounting surface. |
| US08387935B2 |
Two-in-one blower and electrical controls bracket
A furnace system is provided having a blower bracket arrangement. The blower bracket arrangement is configured to mount both a blower and electrical controls for the furnace. The bracket supports the blower for the HVAC system and provides an easy mode for moving the blower in and out of the HVAC system for maintenance and repairs. The electrical controls are easily accessible when mounted to the blower bracket arrangement. |
| US08387931B2 |
Grab bar anchor assembly
A grab bar is attached to a wall of a shower enclosure with at least one anchor assembly. When installed, a grab bar mount flange covers the anchor assembly from view. The anchor assembly includes a flange collar with a collar bore and a jackscrew that is received within the collar bore. The flange collar is installed within an opening formed within the wall of the shower enclosure. A position of the jackscrew can be adjusted without having to remove the flange collar from the wall. Once properly adjusted, a fastener is inserted through the grab bar mount flange, flange collar, and jackscrew for securement to a wall structure behind the shower enclosure. |
| US08387929B2 |
Adjustable stand having rotatable structure
An adjustable stand, for supporting a device having a lateral surface defining a number of recessed portions, includes a base, a rotating frame, and two connecting axles. The rotating frame includes a chassis and two opposing arms extending arcuately and upward from the chassis, wherein the chassis is rotatably connected to the base. The two connecting axles are rotatably connected to the two opposing arms, respectively. Each of the two connecting axles includes at least one elastic protrusion fitting into one of the plurality of recessed portions, and connecting the device to the two connecting axles, wherein the at least one elastic protrusion is able to deform to allow the device to rotatably connect with the two connecting axles. |
| US08387927B1 |
Cable positioning bracket
A cable positioning bracket is provided for mounting to a building component, e.g. a wall stud. The bracket has an anchor plate for being connected to the broad surface of the building component and a pair of side plates for being connected to the narrow surface of the building component. A pair of platforms are positioned adjacent to a slot for supporting one or more cables. A series of opposed tabs are provided in several embodiments, the tabs oriented to engage and support one or more cables. One side plate pivots away from the building component by means of a hinge plate to insert the cable or cables. The tabs in one embodiment are formed with side strips surrounding a window, the strips allowing arcuate bending of the tabs to minimize fatigue failure. |
| US08387924B2 |
Actuation system for a lift assisting device and roller bearings used therein
An actuation system for deploying and retracting a lift assisting device of a wing of an aircraft, is presented. The actuation system includes a track pivotally coupled to the lift assisting device, a shaft rotating in response to flight control signals to deploy or retract the lift assisting device, means for actuating the lift assisting device between a retracted position and a deployed position along an arcuate path, a plurality of track roller bearings and a plurality of side roller bearings. The roller bearings rotatably contact the track to guide the track along the arcuate path. The track roller bearings are comprised of an outer ring, a split inner ring and liners disposed between bearing surfaces of the outer and the inner rings. The split inner ring is configured for accommodating deflection and bending of a mounting pin coupling the track roller bearing in proximity to the track. |
| US08387922B2 |
Aerodynamic element and wing with aerodynamic element, actuator-activation module, computer, computer program and method of influencing wake eddies
An aerodynamic element attachable to a primary wing to extend in a longitudinal direction at an angle to a spanwise direction of the primary wing. The aerodynamic element includes a downstream end having at least two flow flaps arranged next to each other and oriented in the longitudinal direction of the aerodynamic element. |
| US08387921B2 |
Self deploying solar array
A deployable structure that may include a slit-tube longeron and a flat panel coupled with the slit-tube longeron. The slit-tube longeron may include a tubular member having a slit that runs along the longitudinal length of the slit-tube longeron. The deployable structure may be configured to couple with a satellite. And the deployable structure may be configured to transform between a stowed state and a deployed state where the tubular member is substantially straight when the deployable structure is in the deployed state, and the tubular member is wrapped around the satellite when the deployable structure is in the stowed state. |
| US08387920B2 |
Device for launching unmanned missiles from an aircraft
A device for launching unmanned missiles from an aircraft with a pallet, on which at least one container is provided to receive a missile. The container has an upper container section that has a pylon for the suspended, detachable support of the missile. The container has a lower container section that is embodied as a support area for the missile. |
| US08387917B1 |
Support structure for a cargo aircraft
A method and apparatus for transporting containers in an aircraft. A number of containers is loaded into the aircraft. The aircraft is comprised of first and second outer planar structures, a number of planar structures located between the first outer planar structure and the second outer planar structure, a wing, and a support structure. The first outer planar structure, the second outer planar structure, and the number of planar structures are substantially parallel to each other, are coupled to each other to form a fuselage structure, and are configured to receive the number of containers. The support structure connects the wing to a first bottom end of the first outer planar structure, a second bottom end of the second outer planar structure, and a number of bottom ends of the number of planar structures. The aircraft is operated to transport the number of containers to a destination. |
| US08387914B2 |
Solar thermal rotorcraft
A vehicle includes a housing having a wall with a central port and radial port formed at a lower portion of the housing, a blower disposed within the housing to move air through the central port, a distributor coupled to the blower to distribute air inside the housing, a heat-absorbing body disposed within the housing to absorb thermal energy, and at least one arm coupled to the housing. |
| US08387906B2 |
Engaging member supporting structure and webbing take-up device
An engaging member supporting structure having a rotating body being connected to a spool, transmitting rotation to the spool and having rotation from the spool transmitted thereto; a support body provided coaxially with the rotating body; an engaging member provided at the support body and rotating in one direction to engage with the rotating body; a shaft potion formed at one of the support body or the engaging member; and a bearing portion formed at the other of the support body or the engaging member in such a manner that the shaft portion is inserted therein, whereby the engaging member is rotatably provided at the support body, wherein, in a state in which the engaging member engages with the rotating body, a clearance is formed between an outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion and a portion of an inner peripheral surface of the bearing portion. |
| US08387904B2 |
Screen device and fastening means for screen plates
The present invention relates to fastening means for fastening a screen plate onto a screen carrier of a screen device for a comminuting device, comprising a first tensioning element, which is connected to the screen device, particularly to the screen carrier, and which is designed to exert a force on the screen plate; a second tensioning element, which is connected to the screen device, particularly the screen carrier, and which is designed to exert a force on the screen plate, wherein at least one of the tensioning elements is an elastic element, which is designed to exert an elastic restoring force on the screen plate such that the screen plate is tensioned between the first and the second tensioning elements. The invention further relates to a method for fastening a screen plate onto a screen carrier of a screen device for a comminuting device. |
| US08387900B2 |
Directly-actuated piezoelectric fuel injector with variable flow control
A fuel injector apparatus comprising a piezoelectric driving stack and injector assembly wherein a flow control member of the fuel injector apparatus is driven directly by the piezoelectric stack without additional amplification means or interposing elements while the flow area of the nozzle portion is variably adjustable to deliver controlled flow rates in a desired flow profile to improve engine performance and reduce emissions. The injector configuration is adapted to support required flow rates with minimal linear movement of the flow control member. |
| US08387896B2 |
Self cleaning nozzle header system
A self cleaning header assembly for use within a spray application system includes a plurality of spray guns for spraying a mix of air and liquid, e.g., an adhesive, and comprises a cleaning mechanism including one or more wash nozzles and a shroud. During a cleaning cycle, the shroud is closed and the spray guns rotate to approach the wash nozzles. The wash nozzles apply pressurized liquid, e.g., water, to the spray gun nozzles to remove excess adhesive that may affect the spray pattern and flow. After the washing cycle is complete, the spray guns are rotated to again face the target of interest and the shroud is reopened. |
| US08387895B2 |
Inhalation nebulizer
The aerosol generator of an inhalation therapy device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention continuously produces an aerosol at a generation rate of about 0.2 ml/min to about 1.5 ml/min, preferably 0.4 ml/min to about 1.2 ml/min and the mixing chamber has a volume of about 60 ml to about 150 ml, preferably about 80 ml to about 120 ml, and even more preferably about 90 to about 110 ml. While the patient inhales through the inhalation therapy device, the generated aerosol is inhaled by the patient. While the patient exhales into the inhalation therapy device, the generated aerosol is collected in the mixing chamber. Due to the specific size of the mixing chamber, the continuously generated aerosol can accumulate therein without losses even when the exhalation phase is longer than the inhalation phase like in the case of emphysema. |
| US08387894B2 |
Ultrasonic waterjet apparatus
An ultrasonic waterjet apparatus (10) has a mobile generator module (20) and a high-pressure water hose (40) for delivering high-pressure water from the mobile generator module (20) to a hand-held gun (50) with a trigger and an ultrasonic nozzle (60). An ultrasonic generator in the mobile generator module (20) transmits high-frequency electrical pulses to a piezoelectric or magnetostrictive transducer (62) which vibrates to modulate a high-pressure waterjet flowing through the nozzle (60). The waterjet exiting the ultrasonic nozzle (60) is pulsed into mini slugs of water, each of which imparts a waterhammer pressure on a target surface. The ultrasonic waterjet apparatus (10) may be used to cut and de-burr materials, to clean and de-coat surfaces, and to break rocks. The ultrasonic waterjet apparatus (10) performs these tasks with much greater efficiency than conventional continuous-flow waterjet systems because of the repetitive waterhammer effect A nozzle with multiple exit orifices or a rotating nozzle (76) may be provided in lieu of a nozzle with a single exit orifice to render cleaning and de-coating large surfaces more efficient. A water dump valve (27) and controlling solenoid are located in the mobile generator module (20) rather than the gun (50) to make the gun lighter and more ergonomic. |
| US08387889B2 |
Object comprising coded data and randomly dispersed ink taggant
An object has first coded data and a random pattern disposed on a surface thereof. The first coded data identifies a plurality of fiducials on the surface and the random pattern defines a fingerprint for the object. The random pattern is defined by a taggant randomly dispersed in ink printed on the surface. A data reader for reading the first coded data and random pattern includes first and second optical sensors. |
| US08387887B2 |
Inductively coupled radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder
An RFID transponder comprising a housing for mounting on or in a workpiece having a metallic surface, where the RFID transponder is provided for inductive coupling to an RFID reader, where that side of the RFID transponder which is to face the metallic surface is provided with a ferrite component for guiding the magnetic flux from and to a side of the RFID transponder which is to face away from the metallic surface, and where the ferrite component comprises a composite material composed of a first plastic and ferrite powder and forms a first part of the housing, which is to face the metallic surface. Such an RFID transponder is small and robust and additionally simple to produce. |
| US08387883B1 |
Bar code imagers
Bar code imagers and methods of operating bar code imagers are described herein. One method includes selectively illuminating a portion of an axicon optical element of a bar code imager device, forming, by the axicon optical element in response to the selective illumination of the portion of the axicon optical element, an illumination beam, and illuminating a bar code with the illumination beam formed by the axicon optical element. |
| US08387877B2 |
Systems and methods for the secure control of data within heterogeneous systems and networks
Systems and methods for managing data rights are provided. A first label associated with a first data object may be received, and the first label may be converted into a first universal label based at least in part upon one or more predefined rules for the conversion of the first label into the first universal label. Additionally, a second label associated with a second data object may be received, and the second label may be converted into a second universal label based at least in part upon one or more predefined rules for the conversion of the second label into the second universal label. A combined universal label applicable to both the first data object and the second data object may be generated from the first universal label and the second universal label. |
| US08387868B2 |
Method and apparatus for distribution of money transfers
A method of performing money transfer send transactions begins with receiving registration information from a customer, including customer identification and qualification information and payment source identification and performing verification of at least a portion of the identification and qualification information and the payment source identification and upon sufficient verification building a distribution profile. The method proceeds by receiving from the customer and storing in the distribution profile send transaction specifications for staging each of one or more proposed send transactions, and receiving a send initiation instruction with associated customer authentication data and responsive thereto identifying a distribution profile and at least one send transaction specification to be executed. Responsive to the send initiation instruction, the method verifies the authentication data and the current status of the payment source identified in the distribution profile and upon sufficient verification, initiates a send transaction according to the at least one send transaction specification. |
| US08387867B1 |
Automated banking machine that operates responsive to data bearing records
An automated banking machine controlled responsive to data bearing records includes a card reader that reads identifying data from a user card. A host banking system authorizes operation of an automated banking machine responsive to computer verification of the identifying data. The automated banking machine can dispense cash to an authorized machine user in a cash dispensing transaction, and have the user's bank account charged for the cash amount dispensed. The automated banking machine can acquire image and magnetic data from deposited checks to determine the genuineness of checks and the authority of a user to receive cash for the checks. Cash can be dispensed from the machine to a user in exchange for a deposited check. |
| US08387864B1 |
Automated banking machine that operates responsive to data bearing records
A system and method for dispensing documents of value from an automated transaction machine that operates responsive to data read from data bearing records. The machine includes a card reader, cash dispenser, and display device. The machine can display data representative of selectable documents of value, such as a ticket that provides access to an entertainment event. After appropriate user selection and payment, the machine produces an electronic document corresponding to user selection. The machine can wirelessly dispense the electronic document to a mobile phone of the machine user. Information in the document corresponds to a description of value associated with the document. Unique information in the document enables the document to be authenticated with a validating device at a location where the document is to be redeemed. |
| US08387859B2 |
Financial transaction system
A system and method for conducting a financial transaction is disclosed. The system includes a first memory location embedded in a personal portable device. The first memory location stores a plurality of personal financial data files associated with a user. The system also includes a second memory location to store biometric information and a first input interface to receive authentication information after initiation of a purchase transaction session. The system also includes a security module including an input coupled to the first interface to authenticate the authentication information based on the biometric information and an output interface comprising an input coupled to the first memory location and an output to provide personal financial data file information to a host device. |
| US08387855B2 |
Carton with insert
A carton for holding a plurality of containers. The carton comprises panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The panels comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. At least two end flaps are respectively foldably attached to respective panels and are overlapped with respect to one another to at least partially form a closed end of the carton. A reinforcing insert comprises a central panel at least partially in contact with the top panel, at least one reinforcing end flap at least partially in contact with at least one of the end flaps, and at least one reinforcing side flap foldably connected to the central panel. The carton comprises a dispenser for allowing access to the articles in the carton. The dispenser comprises at least a portion of the top panel and the central panel. |
| US08387850B2 |
Surgical stapling instrument having transducer effecting vibrations
A surgical stapling instrument includes a tool assembly configured to eject staples. The tool assembly has a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly movable relative to each other. The cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly are configured to move between open and closed positions. The surgical stapling instrument further includes at least one transducer disposed in at least one of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly. The transducers are adapted to effect vibrations to enhance stapling. In one embodiment, wires connect the transducers to a power generator. The power generator supplies energy to the transducers. |
| US08387845B2 |
Setting tool
A setting tool for driving in fastening elements includes a setting piston (20) axially displaceable in a piston guide (13) which is adjoined by a bolt guide (12), and a piston stop device (30) for the setting piston (20) and arranged at an end region of the piston guide (13) adjacent to the bolt guide (12) and having a damping element (31) supported against a stop (15), and a stop member (32) for the setting piston (20) and adjoining the damping element (31) in a direction toward the piston guide (13), with the damping element (31), the stop member (32) and the stop (15) having respective surfaces (33, 34; 35, 36) arranged axially opposite each other at least one of which is formed as an inclined surface (S) forming with a respective opposite surface an angle of from 2° to 20°. |
| US08387844B2 |
Harness for breathing apparatus
A harness 100 for breathing apparatus, comprising: a structural support member 102 having a fixing portion 10, and at least one strap 40 having a loop 42. The strap is arranged to be releasably attached to the structural support member. The fixing portion comprises a first slot 12 through which a portion of the strap is arranged to pass in use; and a first anchor member 16, 18 laterally spaced from the first slot extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first slot and arranged in use to releasably locate at least partly within the loop of the strap through a first side of the loop. |
| US08387838B2 |
Device for use in folding fitted sheets
A fitted bedsheet folding aid includes a telescoping left rod assembly having a pair of door hangers attached thereto for supporting the fitted bedsheet folding aid over the top of a door. A telescoping right rod assembly longitudinally abuts the left rod assembly and is attached thereto by means of a hinge to permit the right rod assembly to be rotated clockwise 180 degrees away from the door from an open position in which it is longitudinally aligned with the left rod assembly to a closed position in front of the left rod assembly. The length of each of the telescoping rod assemblies is adjustable to accommodate king, queen, double or twin fitted sheets. A spring-loaded tip member at each end of the telescoping rod assemblies is urged outwardly to maintain taut a sheet spanning the telescoping rod assemblies. |
| US08387836B2 |
Rod activated valve for saving water with tamper-resistant security feature
A rod activated water valve includes a valve base that mates with a standard water faucet. One end of the valve base attaches to a cylindrical valve housing which has an inward protruding lip, at least two key holes at a bottom end and an outer groove. A rod activated valve mechanism is housed within the cylindrical valve housing. A cylindrical outer sleeve is rotatably held onto the cylindrical valve housing by a C-shaped spring member and substantially covers the cylindrical valve housing thereby preventing removal of the cylindrical outer sleeve from the cylindrical valve housing and allowing free rotation of the cylindrical outer sleeve with respect to the cylindrical valve housing. A tool is required to be inserted into the key holes for installation and removal of the rod activated water valve with tamper-resistant security feature to/from a faucet. |
| US08387830B2 |
Dispenser with lockout device
A dispenser housing that receives a refill unit including a container and pump associated with the container to pump contents from the container. The dispenser housing includes an actuator carriage moveable between a rest position and an actuated position. The dispenser housing also includes a lockout device moveable between an open position and a closed position. When the lockout device is in the open position, the actuator carriage is movable, and, when the lockout device is in the closed position, movement of the actuator carriage is blocked by the lockout device such that the actuator carriage cannot be moved from the rest position to the actuated position. |
| US08387826B2 |
Beverage dispensing apparatus
A beverage dispenser has gauges to measure the temperature of the beverage, in at least one embodiment beer, stored in a closed beverage container. The beverage is pressurized and a pressure gauge in the gas supply conduit line measures the pressure of the gas in the beverage container. A pressure regulator in the gas supply conduit line assists in ensuring that the pressure is consistent. The valve is closed during dispensation and the temperature and the gas pressure are measured immediately afterwards. By calculating the temperature change of the beverage and the pressure drop in the container, the amount of beverage can be calculated accurately. This in turn can be utilized to reliably calculate how beverage is left in the container and this information is then presented on a display, in at least one embodiment, as a series of indicator bars. |
| US08387825B2 |
Powered dispensing tool and method for controlling same
An apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling motor current during a dispensing of material from a dispensing tool (10) is provided, including a method for measuring the motor current of the dispensing tool during operation through a motor controller (U2). The method further includes sending a feedback signal from the motor controller (U2) relating to the measured motor current to an input of a microcontroller (U1) that is adapted to a dispensing tool (10). The feedback signal is compared to a prescribed threshold and the motor current is conditioned based on the comparing of the feedback signal to the prescribed threshold. |
| US08387824B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for bulk dispensing
Apparatuses and methods relating to hoppers and the dispensing of bulk therefrom are provided. The hopper can include hopper walls that form a product storage receptacle. The hopper can also include a hopper door that includes a frame and a slide gate disposed within the frame. The slide gate is retractable between an open position and a closed position. A set of fingers projects from the slide gate to dislodge material proximate to the hopper door. Further, a port can be provided through at least one of the fingers of the set of fingers with the port configured to inject a fluid into the hopper. |
| US08387823B2 |
Dispensing apparatus system and method
An automatic dispensing apparatus system and method for dispensing predetermined objects is disclosed. More particularly, the invention is an automatic bottled water dispensing apparatus system and method having a housing which houses various sizes of bottled water and a conveyor system for transporting the bottled water to a dispensing member for a customer. The dispensing apparatus system also includes a return machine for returning empty bottles, a plurality of selection members, a payment member and an inventory monitoring member. |
| US08387820B2 |
Travel mug for microwave oven
The present invention relates to a travel mug that is made of metal materials and can be used for microwave oven, comprising: a container having a double-layered structure with an inner shell and an outer shell, wherein said inner shell and said outer shell are joined by a joint in such a way that a cavity is provided therebetween, and a heat transfer medium is filled to at least part of said cavity; a first neat transfer member and a second transfer member formed from the bottom of said outer shell; a handle formed on one side of said outer shell; a pressure release device formed at one side of said outer shell; and a lid having a receiver part forming a concave portion to receive said joint. |
| US08387818B2 |
Container for suspending an insulating bulb
The invention relates to a container for transporting and/or storing products, and particularly a cryostat type container, having an external packaging structure having a plurality of walls defining an internal volume within which an insulating bulb is suspended, the insulating bulb having a body formed by an outer wall and an inner wall, the inner wall defining an internal volume and the body having an opening leading into the internal volume of the insulating bulb and a cover formed from one of the plurality of walls of the external packaging structure, the cover having a tubular element capable of contacting the insulating bulb to suspend the insulating bulb within the internal volume that receives the insulating bulb, the cover also allowing passage of materials through the opening when the insulating bulb is suspended. |
| US08387815B2 |
Apparatus and method for sequential bagging of materials
A system comprising a multiple-bag pack supported for dispensing, loading, and removal of bags on a structure. The pack includes a bag-attachment portion wherein the multiple bags are sequentially attached. Each bag is removable in sequence by separation from the pack along a parting feature. The bags are contained within the structure and the bag-attachment portion is folded outwards over a lip to secure the bag pack. The front edge of the outermost bag of the pack is drawn over another lip to open the bag for loading. The rear edge remains attached to the bag pack, thus fully distending the mouth of the bag. To change bags, the rear edge of the bag is separated from the pack and the first lip along the parting structure. The front edge of the loaded bag is removed from the second lip, and the bag is closed and removed from the structure. |
| US08387814B2 |
Collapsible storage devices
A collapsible structure has first and second flexible loop members, each loop member defining a closed loop and having a first side and an opposing second side, each loop member adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, with the two loop members overlapping each other at a first overlapping point along the first sides of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along the second sides of the loop members. The loop members are adapted to assume a deployed position in which one loop member is disposed at an angle with respect to the other loop member at the overlapping points, so that the structure defines a top side, four vertical sides, and a bottom side when in the loop members are in the deployed position. The structure also includes a flexible wall extending across the four vertical sides and the bottom side to define an interior space. |
| US08387811B2 |
Pierceable cap having piercing extensions
A pierceable cap maybe used for containing sample specimens during storage and transport. The pierceable cap may prevent unwanted escape of sample specimen before transfer with a transfer device. The pierceable cap may fit over a vessel. An access port in the pierceable cap may allow passage of a tip of a transfer device though the pierceable cap. Multiple frangible layers maybe disposed across the access port. One or more extensions proximate to a lower frangible layer may rotate around one or more coupling regions during insertion of the transfer device. The movement of the one or more extensions may pierce the lower frangible layer to create airways and allow air to escape from a vessel at a reduced velocity. Upper frangible layers may prevent escape of materials from spaces intermediate between the lower frangible layer and the upper frangible layers. |
| US08387807B2 |
Modular organizer for crib or playpen
A modular organizer is capable of attachment to a rod of a playpen or crib, and includes first and second storage members that are connected removably to each other. Each of the first and second storage members is attached to the rod by a positioning element. Preferably, one or more third storage members are disposed between and connected removably to the first and second storage members. The third storage members can be interconnected removably to one another and to the first and second storage members. |
| US08387804B2 |
Diffusion and/or filtration device
The present disclosure relates to a diffusion and/or filtration device, such as a dialyzer, hemofilter, or ultra-filter, having improved flow characteristics. The invention also relates to an end cap for the device. |
| US08387801B2 |
Collector for flotation of clay minerals from potash ores
The invention relates to a flotation process for removal of slimes from potash ores wherein a collector is used selected from the group of ethoxylated fatty amines having the formulae (formula I) wherein R1 and R2 are, independently, a hydrocarbyl group having 1-22 C-atoms, and n is on average above 15 and less than 100, and (formula II) wherein R3 is a hydrocarbyl group having 8-22 carbon atoms; z is a number 1-3; X, Y and Y′ are, independently, an alkyl group with 1-4 carbon atoms or the group -(EO)sH, wherein EO is an ethyleneoxy unit and s is on average 5-50, and the sum of all s is on average 15 or more, and less than 100; provided that at least one of X, Y and Y′ is a group -(EO)sH. The invention further relates to a process wherein the step of flotation of slime is followed by a step of flotation of KCl using a different type of collector. |
| US08387800B2 |
System and method to identify and extract metallic items from impacted soil to isolate ordnance-related items
A system and method to identify and extract metallic items from impacted soil to isolate ordnance-related items is disclosed. A feeder feeds impacted soil onto a first conveyor belt that conveys the impacted soil towards a screener. The screener screens particles from the impacted soil received from the first conveyor belt, and if the particles are smaller than an ordnance-related size of concern, the particles pass through the screener. If the particles are larger than the ordnance-related size of concern, the larger particles are passed onto a second conveyor belt. The second conveyor belt conveys the impacted soil towards a magnet positioned above the second conveyor belt. The magnet is utilized to pull metallic items away from the impacted soil for inspection by an ordnance inspector to determine if a metallic item is ordnance-related. Impacted soil is cycled back to the screener and the magnet in a closed-loop system. |
| US08387799B2 |
Wafer container with purgeable supporting module
A wafer container includes a container body, formed by a pair of side walls, a top surface, and a bottom surface, a supporting module being disposed on each of said sidewall for supporting a plurality of wafers; and a door joining with opening of the container body with its inner surface for protecting the plurality of wafers within the container body, the characteristic in that: a purgeable supporting module is respectively disposed between each sidewall to of the container body and the back wall, a long slit is further disposed on the side of purgeable supporting module facing the opening and a porous material is disposed within the long slit, and an air inlet is further disposed on one end of the purgeable supporting module for being connected to a gas valve, wherein the purgeable supporting module is composed of a plurality of supporting ribs vertically arranged at intervals. |
| US08387798B1 |
Mutiple oral and nasal surgical procedures method and kit
The method of performing multiple oral and nasal surgical procedures in the head and neck region provides a systematic procedure for the performance of multiple operations for correcting various ear, nose, and throat conditions that cause snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in the patient. The method allows the surgeon to perform multiple operating procedures in the nose, mouth, and/or throat in a single operating session, due to the use of hemostatic sheet and gel treatments in lieu of suturing and post-operative nasal hemostatic packs that preclude nasal breathing. The various surgical implement kits allow the surgeon to select the appropriate kit according to the procedure(s) to be performed. The procedure(s) is/are selected in accordance with a specific customized treatment plan that is developed by the surgeon for the individual patient, which other surgeons involved in snoring or OSA surgery can comprehend. |
| US08387796B2 |
Box with improved resealable cover
A box having a top surface and a resealable cover, the resealable cover comprising a top layer and a base layer. The top layer comprises a first clear film layer, an adhesive layer, and a second clear film layer disposed on a resealable adhesive layer. The base layer comprises a third clear film layer an adhesive layer, and a fourth clear film layer. In one embodiment, ink printing may be disposed between the first adhesive layer and the second clear film layer and/or between the second adhesive layer and the fourth clear film layer. |
| US08387793B2 |
Vertically stacking litter bags
Bags for granular material with a closure on top of the bag and a vertical handle on the lower end of the bag and having suitable dimensions, static coefficient of friction, creep resistance and containing granular materials of limited flow properties can be vertically stacked without support, for example on a pallet. One such suitable granular material is cat litter. |
| US08387792B2 |
Sleeve kit with sleeve brackets
A sleeve kit has a case, multiple sleeves and a cover. The case has multiple sleeve brackets and multiple fasteners. Each fastener is mounted on a position between two adjacent ones of the sleeve brackets, protrudes from a plane where openings of the sleeve brackets are located and has two barbs and a gap. The cover covers the sleeve brackets and has multiple secure holes respectively mounted around the fasteners. With the secure holes mounted around the fasteners, the cover is difficult to be removed from the case, and the sleeves are protected against burglars. |
| US08387790B2 |
Holder for a telecommunications device
A holder for a telecommunications device includes a container including a side wall connected to a base. Together the side wall and base define a cavity. Side wall defines an opening of the container at an end of the side wall distal to the base. A resilient insert is disposed inside the cavity. The insert includes a bottom portion that abuts the base and a feature for releasably retaining the device inside the container. A lid is in selective locking engagement with the side wall's distal end. When in locking engagement, the lid encloses the opening of the container to retain the device inside the holder, and to muffle a sound and/or a vibration produced by the device. A locking mechanism is operatively attached to the container and/or the lid, and holds the lid and the container together when the lid is in locking engagement with the distal end. |
| US08387788B2 |
Cigarette package
A cigarette package of the invention has a casing (10), which includes an open end (12) that is opened/closed with a tongue lid (16). The tongue lid (16) has a lid portion (18), a tongue portion (22), and a magnet (28) fixed onto the tongue portion (22). A sheet (34) capable of being attracted to the magnet (28) is fixed onto a front wall (10f) of the casing (10). When the tongue lid (16) is in the closed position, the magnet (28) and the sheet (34) keep the tongue portion (22) attracted to the front wall (10f) in cooperation with each other by using the attracting force of the magnet (28). At the time of closing the tongue lid (16), the tongue portion (22) hits the front wall (10f) and thus makes a clap sound. |
| US08387782B2 |
Container for the accommodation of a contact lens
There is described a container (1) for the accommodation of a contact lens during treatment process such as extraction and/or rinsing and/or coating processes, which comprises an elongated tubular body (2) having a sidewall (3) and at one longitudinal end thereof a bottom (4) which protrudes convexly towards the outside of the tubular body (2). At the opposite longitudinal end the tubular body (2) has an access opening (5). The bottom (4) is provided with a number of apertures (41, 42) which enable a free flow of a liquid into and out of the tubular body (2). A retaining element (6) is located inside the tubular body (2), which allows access of a transfer means into the tubular body (2) towards the bottom (4) thereof for insertion and removal of a contact lens, and enables a free rising of the liquid inside the tubular body (2), but prohibits the contact lens from being washed out of the tubular body (2). |
| US08387781B2 |
Conveyor roller servicing apparatus
A conveyor belt support for a conveyor may comprise: a mandrel mountable to the far side of the conveyor and extending transversely toward the near side thereof; a member mountable to the mandrel from the near side of the conveyor that is slideable on and rotatable about the mandrel; and a roller supported by the member, wherein the roller is transverse to the conveyor belt when the member is mounted to the mandrel, wherein rotating the member in a first direction moves the roller to an operating position for supporting the conveyor belt and rotating the member in a second direction moves the roller to a position wherein the member and roller are removable from the support mandrel. |
| US08387779B2 |
Method for filling bulk material
A method for filling a terrain using bulk material, preferably excavating material from an ore mine. The method includes a) the terrain has at least three levels disposed parallel to each other; b) a conveyor system (1) by which the bulk material is conveyed is positioned on at least the level second from the bottom; c) a traveling tripper (2) can be displaced along the entire conveyor system (1), by which the bulk material on one or the other side of the conveyor system (1) can be transferred to a connecting conveyor bridge (3) that can also be displaced along the conveyor system (1); d) the connecting conveyor bridge (3) transfers the bulk material to a depositor (4) that can also be displaced along the conveyor system (1); e) the depositor (4) successively deposits the bulk material in elongated filling strips (A-G) on the various levels below and above the level (0) of the conveyor system (1); f) initially one or several levels below or above the level (0) are each filled with at least one strip (A-D or E-G) on one side of the conveyor system (1); and g) the traveling tripper (2), connecting conveyor bridge (3), and the depositor (4) are subsequently displaced to the other side of the conveyor system (1) in order to fill the corresponding filling strip at that location as well. |
| US08387777B2 |
Conveyor chain tension monitor
At least one single link of a conveyor chain is configured to support a tension load cell. A main body portion of the link includes a central cavity sized to contain the load cell, which has been inserted therein through an opening of the main body portion, and at least one auxiliary cavity to contain at least one battery cell and circuitry. A cap portion of the link closes off the opening into the cavity to enclose the load cell therein. One or both of the main body and cap portions may include a bore to receive a fastener for attaching to an end of the inserted load cell, and both portions include a bore oriented to receive a pin of a mating dual link of the conveyor chain. The cap portion may also include anti-rotation surfaces to mate with one or both of: the load cell and the opening. |
| US08387776B2 |
Transport system
A conveying system for conveying containers includes a conveyor for conveying packaging. The conveyor includes a conveying element moveable in a conveying direction along a movement path, the conveying element forming a conveying surface for the packaging, an electric measuring module on the conveying element, the module having a sensor for detecting a physical variable, and an RFID transponder having an RFID transponder circuit that interacts with the sensor, an RFID read/ write head on the path of movement of the conveying element for wireless data transmission with the a measuring module and for transmission of electric power to the measuring module, a lubricant supply system for applying a belt lubricant, the lubricant supply system being controlled and/or regulated at least in part on the basis of data read by the read/write head. |
| US08387773B2 |
Clip for capturing bottle necks, particularly of pet bottles
An apparatus for capturing bottle necks in bottle filling installations includes a clip having clip arms. The clip arms are pivotable in a horizontal plane and mounted so as to be jointly pivotable in a horizontal plane about a pivot axis. The apparatus also includes an attachment for a magnet, and another magnet provided with the attachment and disposed on a side of the attachment such that the pivot axis is between the magnet and the clip arms, and a clip holding block configured to be secured onto a star and facing the clip and having a magnet. The magnet on the attachment and the magnet on the clip holding block are essentially opposite and spaced apart from each other by a distance that ensures horizontal pivoting movements of the clip. |
| US08387771B2 |
Bottled water distribution method and bottle return apparatus
Method and apparatus for bottled beverage distribution. Apparatus includes bin, means for receiving bottles, sensor and receipt dispenser. Method of selling includes providing an inventory, assigning identification indicia, assigning first and second purchase prices and positioning apparatus for receiving, storing and dispensing receipt. Method of distributing includes delivering to a first location water bottles, positioning at a second location a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus, and retrieving empty bottles from the apparatus. Method of distributing includes creating an account, assigning a first amount charged for each bottle sold, assigning a second amount deducted from the first amount for each bottle received, delivering bottles and positioning a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus. Method of distributing includes delivering inventory of drinking water, transferring ownership of the inventory, invoicing for each bottle delivered and retrieving empty drinking water bottles from bottle return apparatus. |
| US08387767B2 |
Driven accessory with low-power clutch for activating or de-activating same
A driven accessory having a clutch that permits selective operation of an accessory portion. The clutch employs rotational inertia to control driving engagement of a wrap spring to an interior clutch surface on a drive member and/or driving disengagement of the wrap spring from the interior clutch surface. |
| US08387765B2 |
Radial ratchet one-way clutch
A radial ratchet one-way clutch, including: at least one inner race having a plurality of indentations on an outer circumferential surface; at least one outer race having a plurality of indentations on an inner circumferential surface; and a plurality of engagement elements having respective first segments. The engagement elements are assembled with a bias so that the first segments are urged against the inner race. For rotation of the outer race in a locking direction, respective first segments for at least a portion of the engagement elements are engageable with respective indentations from the pluralities of indentations to rotationally lock the inner and outer races. For rotation of the outer race in a free-wheel direction, opposite the locking direction, the respective first segments are slidable across the outer circumferential surface to enable independent rotation of the outer race with respect to the at least one inner race. |
| US08387764B2 |
Torque converter with piston centered in clutch plate
A torque converter including a cover and a bridging clutch for selective connection to the cover, the bridging clutch including a clutch plate fixed to the cover and having an inner radial surface and having a piston having an outer radial surface opposite the inner radial surface. A method for assembling a torque converter is also provided. |
| US08387763B2 |
Retractable cord reel
A retractable cord reel is disclosed. The retractable cord reel may have a rotatable ferrule configured to adapt to an expandable coil having various trajectories within the cord reel. The retractable cord reel may have a splicing chamber filled with an epoxy or similar substance. Improved heat dissipation vents and fins and a thermal overload device may also be provided. |
| US08387762B2 |
Suspension device
A suspension device (S) of the present invention comprises: an actuator (A) including a motion conversion mechanism (T) for converting a linear motion to a rotational motion, and a motor (M) connected to a rotational member (1) which performs the rotational motion in the motion conversion mechanism (T); a fluid pressure damper (D) connected to a linear motion member (2) which performs the linear motion in the motion conversion mechanism (T); a mount (22) connected to a sprung member of a vehicle; and suspension springs (38) and (38) interposed between the mount (22) and an unsprung member, the actuator (A) being elastically supported by the mount (22) through a rubber vibration isolator (21). |
| US08387761B2 |
Thermal protection for disc brake components
A disc brake for a motor vehicle is provided. The disc brake includes a brake disc, a brake caliper configured to straddle the brake disc, a tappet carried by the brake caliper and arranged to push a brake pad against the brake disc, and a bellows provided between the brake caliper and the tappet to seal a gap between the brake caliper and the tappet. A layer of flexible thermal insulation material may be provided between the bellows and the tappet. The layer of flexible thermal insulation material is configured to protect an outer surface of the bellows facing the brake pad from exposure to heat. Alternatively, the bellows may include a layer of flexible thermal insulation material on which an elastomer layer is formed. The layer of flexible thermal insulation material is configured to face the brake pad. |
| US08387758B1 |
Brake adjustment indicator
A brake adjustment indicator for indicating when an air brake is out of adjustment during a visual inspection of the air brake includes a collar including a perimeter wall defining a bore. The bore of the collar receives a push rod of an air brake to position the collar around the push rod. The collar is inserted into an air piston housing when the air brake is released. At least a portion of the collar extends from the air piston housing to indicate an amount of adjustment needed for the air brake when the air brake is engaged. A flange is coupled to and extends radially outwardly from the collar to abut the air piston housing and inhibit debris entering the air piston housing adjacent to the collar. The flange has an aperture aligned with the bore of the collar to receive the push rod. |
| US08387751B2 |
Follow-up fall prevention device
Disclosed is a follow-up fall prevention device used with a cord designed to secure a person. The device includes a blocking system having a pressure mechanism configured, during running of the cord, to be between the free weight and the bearing surface and to bias a free weight toward the cord and away from a bearing surface, thereby enabling the free weight to be always in contact with the cord and remain in the lower part of a cavity without touching the bearing surface, whatever the inclination of the cord and whatever the position of the device. The pressure mechanism includes a spring. |
| US08387750B2 |
Shock absorbing fabric structures
Fabric structures having two connection segments and an expansion segment between the two connection segments are provided. The fabric structure includes ground yarns that form a sheath, binder yarns, elongation yarns surrounded by the sheath, and lateral yarns. In the expansion segment, at least some of the lateral yarns are interwoven with the elongation yarns to connect the elongation yarns laterally with the sheath. Heat treatment of the expansion segment shrinks the length of the elongation yarns during manufacture. The sheath does not substantially shrink from the heat treatment relative to the elongation yarns and gathers together in an accordion-like arrangement. A tensile load applied to the fabric structure stretches the elongation yarns and unfolds the gathered sheath. The high strength sheath supports the tensile load when completely unfolded, while the elongation yarns absorbs energy as the fabric structure stretches or elongates. |
| US08387748B2 |
Composite laminate for a thermal and acoustic insulation blanket
This invention is directed to a composite laminate comprising in order (a) a flame retardant polymeric moisture barrier (b) an inorganic platelet layer and (c) a flame retardant thermoplastic film layer The invention is also directed to a thermal insulation and acoustic blanket comprising a core of fibrous material or foam surrounded by the above composite laminate wherein the thermoplastic film layer of the composite laminate contacts and encapsulates the core. |
| US08387741B2 |
Drive train arrangement for a vehicle
A drive train arrangement for a vehicle comprising a main transmission and a transfer box which are both housed within a transmission housing. The transfer box comprises a drive output which is connected to a rear axle differential transmission and connectable, by a torque transmission element and a connecting shaft, to a front axle differential transmission. The connecting shaft is arranged at a predetermined angle relative to the drive output shaft of the main transmission. The end of the connecting shaft, facing toward the front axle differential transmission, is actively connected to the front axle differential transmission. The front axle differential transmission is fixed to the vehicle by at least one adaptor device allowing the front axle differential transmission to be adapted to a variety of arrangement positions along the rotation axis of the connection shaft. |
| US08387740B2 |
Motor vehicle with differential gear box providing angular movement and method therefor
A motor vehicle has a frame and drive mechanism mounted to the frame. A differential gear box is mounted to the frame and coupled to the drive mechanism. The differential gear box includes a housing cover, differential planetary gear assembly mounted within the housing cover, CV joint housing mounted within the housing cover and rotationally coupled to the planetary gear assembly, and CV joint bearing having a plurality of rounded bearing surfaces contacting the slotted bearing drive surfaces. The CV joint housing includes a cavity with a plurality of slotted bearing drive surfaces formed in a sidewall of the cavity. An axle has a spring-loaded plunger disposed through a center portion of the CV joint bearing and contacting a bearing surface formed in the cavity of the CV joint housing. The slotted bearing drive surfaces permit angular movement of the CV joint bearing within the CV joint housing. |
| US08387739B2 |
Shift device
There is provided a shift device of which visibility and operability is excellent. The shift device 1 includes a shift lever 5 which operates a gear position of a transmission. The shift lever is arranged in an area R1 of an instrumental panel 11 which is outside of a steering wheel 20 and upper than the center axis O of the steering wheel 20 from the viewpoint of the driver and protruding toward the driver. A center part of the steering wheel 20 is provided with an air bag system, and the shift lever 5 is arranged in an expansion area of an air bag of the air bag system from the viewpoint of the driver. |
| US08387737B2 |
Motorcycle suspension method and sway dampening apparatus
A Motorcycle Suspension Method and Sway Dampening Apparatus. Rather than selectively replacing portions of the prior motorcycle dampening apparatus, the apparatus and method of the present invention replaces the conventional dampening bushing within the OEM pivot shaft assembly. The replacement combination motor mount and bushing provides at least the same durability and dampening capability the OEM device, while eliminating the “wobble” experienced by virtually all OEM motorcycles having the prior rear pivot mount design. The replacement mount and bushing element comprises at least two different plasticized materials combined into a single element. The combination mount and bushing is made partially from a softer, pliable dampening material, as well as a more durable and hard material. Installation of the combination mount and bushing element eliminates the need for an asymmetric pivot shaft orientation, since the central bore of this element is centered on the geometric axis of the element. |
| US08387734B2 |
Low speed vehicle
A utility vehicle is disclosed that may be used in multiple modes of use, such as a low speed transport vehicle or a golf cart. The vehicle has a rear passenger seat area which can be converted into a golf bag carrying mechanism. The vehicle also has a foot pedestal for use when operating with rear passengers, and which may fold up when not in use. |
| US08387730B2 |
Method and apparatus for starting an engine in a hybrid vehicle
A method and apparatus for starting an engine in a hybrid vehicle being driven by an electric motor is disclosed. The motor is operably configured to deliver mechanical power through an automatic transmission to at least one vehicle drive wheel to cause an acceleration of the vehicle. The method involves coupling the engine to the motor to cause an inertial load on the motor thus causing the motor to decelerate to a reduced rotational speed to provide a starting torque to the engine for starting the engine, and causing the automatic transmission to change gear ratio to a target gear ratio associated with the reduced rotational speed while causing the motor to decelerate, the motor being operable to deliver increased torque at the reduced rotational speed, thereby generally maintaining the acceleration of the vehicle. |
| US08387729B2 |
Machine having electrical power system and centered drive coupling for same
A machine, such as an electrically powered track type tractor, includes an engine configured to rotate a generator. A drive coupling has a first element fixed to rotate with the engine and a second element fixed to rotate with the generator. The first and second elements are configured to rotationally couple together for transmitting torque from the engine to the generator, but configured to allow relative slip between the first and second elements. The relative slip may occur during engine start up as rotational rates pass through a range associated with the excitation of resonance torsional vibrations. A centering ring has a radial outer surface in contact with the first element and a radial inner surface in contact with the second element. The centering ring assists in avoiding an off center drive coupling arrangement while electrically isolating the first element from the second element. |
| US08387722B2 |
Strength (UCS) of carbonates using compressional and shear acoustic velocities
Acoustic velocities measured downhole are used to predict a rock strength using results of a regression analysis that include grain size. The grain size can be obtained from drill cuttings or from NMR measurements. The determined rock strength is used in drilling operations. |
| US08387717B2 |
Multi directional oscillation from a rotational source
The present invention provides multi-directional oscillation from a rotational source, by receiving a rotational motion, converting the rotational motion to a first oscillating motion, converting the first oscillating motion to a second oscillating motion that is normal to the first oscillating motion and transferring the first oscillating motion and the second oscillating motion to a working element. |
| US08387714B2 |
Rear implement mounting frame construction for tractor
A rear implement mounting frame construction for a tractor is disclosed. The construction comprises a pair of mounting frames attached respectively to right and left sides of a tractor body. Each of these mounting frames comprises a plate member having a plate thickness oriented along the right/left direction. Each mounting frame also includes a case mounting portion that is connected to a rear axle case of the tractor body and a vertical connecting portion formed rearwardly of the case mounting portion which connects a rear implement. A bent portion formed between the case mounting portion and the vertical connecting portion causes the vertical connecting portion to be disposed closer to the tractor body than the case mounting portion. A right/left distance between the vertical connecting portions is set smaller than a right/left distance between the case mounting portions. |
| US08387706B2 |
Negative accumulator for BOP shear rams
The method of providing increased motive force for one or more rams of a subsea blowout preventer comprising providing a one or more pistons connected to the one or more ram, the pistons having a distal side and a proximate side with respect to the ram, providing a tank contain a first pressure less than the ambient pressure of seawater at the location of the subsea blowout preventer, and communicating the first pressure with the proximate side of the one or more pistons to cause or enhance the differential pressure across the one or more pistons to urge the rams toward the center of the bore of the subsea blowout preventer. |
| US08387701B2 |
Intervention system dynamic seal and compliant guide
A technique for subsea intervention operations utilizes a retrievable dynamic seal assembly. The retrievable dynamic seal assembly is deployed toward a seabed and locked into place within a tubular member at a subsea installation. During deployment, the dynamic seal assembly is releasably locked to an intervention tool string coupled to a conveyance. Once the dynamic seal assembly is locked in place within the tubular, the tool string is released and the dynamic seal assembly maintains a seal against the conveyance during an intervention operation. |
| US08387699B2 |
Green coal bed methane fracturing fluid compositions, methods of preparation and methods of use
Coal friendly, non-toxic, green fracturing compositions, methods of preparing fracturing compositions and methods of use in various fracturing applications are described. The compositions are characterized as non-toxic compositions enabling effective use of the fracturing compositions in coal bed methane (CBM) formations and particularly shallow CBM formations. The compositions include a liquid component (water-based component) and a gas component in proportions that can support a proppant under turbulent conditions and that promote the formation of a mist. |
| US08387697B2 |
Gas evolving oil viscosity diminishing compositions for stimulating the productive layer of an oil reservoir
The present invention features a chemical system of gas evolving oil viscosity diminishing compositions (GEOVDC) for stimulating the productive layer of an oil reservoir, that is chemical compositions for a thermochemical treatment of an oil reservoir, more specifically for initiating a chemical reaction in the productive layer zone of the oil reservoir to produce heat and evolve gases so that the extraction of oil (petroleum) is improved. The invention further features a method of thermochemically treating an oil reservoir by means of this chemical system, and an apparatus for performing thermochemical treatment of an oil reservoir. |
| US08387694B2 |
Methods for placement of sealant in subterranean intervals
Methods comprising identifying an interval of a subterranean formation to be treated, the interval comprising multiple portions, each portion having a different effective permeability; introducing a relative-permeability modifier into the interval; and, introducing a sealant into the interval. The relative-permeability modifier modifies the interval to have a more uniform effective permeability to water-based fluids. The relative-permeability modifier comprises a water-soluble polymer. The more uniform effective permeability of the interval allows for a more uniform treatment of the interval by the sealant than would be allowed without treatment of the interval with the relative-permeability modifier. |
| US08387691B2 |
Low pressure recovery process for acceleration of in-situ bitumen recovery
A method for recovery of hydrocarbons from a subterranean reservoir is described. Adjacent injector producer well pairs are operated under conditions of steam assisted gravity drainage with a lateral drainage well between them. The lateral drainage well is operated under conditions of intermittent steam injection and alternating oil, water and gas production. NCG is co-injected with steam at selected intervals and in selected quantities in order to control the steam saturation of the SAGD steam chamber and the rise of the steam chamber, and to encourage lateral fluid communication between the adjacent well pairs and the LD well to control the rise of the steam chamber. |
| US08387690B2 |
Completion method for horizontal wells in in situ combustion
An underground reservoir is provided comprising an injection well and a production well. The production well has a horizontal section oriented generally perpendicularly to a generally linear and laterally extending, upright combustion front propagated from the injection well. The method relates to controlling location of inflow into a production well during in situ combustion. The horizontal section of the production well includes blocking agents to prevent well failure. |
| US08387686B2 |
Automotive heat exchanger assemblies having internal fins and methods of making the same
The present disclosure relates to automotive heat exchanger assemblies that may withstand high environmental temperature and pressures conditions. By providing a tube strengthener into the tubes at the areas of highest stress, the heat exchanger assembly may be strengthened so that it is substantially more efficient under typical operating conditions. |
| US08387679B2 |
Vacuum die-casting machine
A reduced size vacuum die-casting machine wherein an amount of powder release agent which is fed to a mold cavity each time is stable and loss of velocity of the air flow for sucking out the powder release agent is difficult, the apparatus provided with a powder control valve which has a powder release agent passage through which a powder release agent passes and which moves back and forth inside of a sleeve to switch between a state communicating a discharge hole with a molten metal holding chamber and a state communicating a discharge hole with a powder release agent passage, the powder release agent passage of the powder control valve formed inside of the powder control valve, the inlet and outlet of the powder release agent passage being formed at the outer surface of the powder control valve. |
| US08387678B1 |
Sensor aided direct gating for metal casting
A mold system and method for producing a casting. The mold system utilizes multiple channels, each channel comprising a sprue and gating system, to feed the mold cavity at different heights. When a lower portion of the mold is filled, a controller is signaled to initiate filling of the mold through a second channel positioned above the lower portion. This mold system desirably provides the hottest molten metal to the last portion of the casting to freeze with or without the use of risers, eliminating casting defects. The system also enables the controlled pouring of dissimilar metal castings. |
| US08387665B2 |
Combination spring and gas filled accumulator
A compact fluid accumulator both stores a relatively large amount of fluid and provides good fluid pressure stability. The accumulator includes a piston slidably disposed in a cylinder having a fluid inlet/outlet at one end which communicates with a first chamber and one face of the piston. Engaging the opposite face of the piston, and disposed in a second chamber, is a compression spring. The second chamber is filled with a gas which is at atmospheric pressure when the accumulator is relaxed. When pressurized hydraulic fluid fills the first chamber, the piston moves against the pressure of the spring and gas in the second chamber. The present invention thus provides an accumulator having the relatively small size of a gas filled accumulator without the leakage problem of a super-atmospheric gas charge—the extra force being provided by the compression spring. |
| US08387659B2 |
Pilot operated spool valve
A spool valve assembly includes a spool that is moveable by differential pressure across the spool. |
| US08387657B2 |
Methods and apparatus to determine a position of a valve
Methods and apparatus to indicate a position of a valve are described. An example apparatus includes a first pressure sensor to detect an inlet pressure of a valve, a second pressure sensor to detect an outlet pressure of the valve, and a controller operatively coupled to the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor to determine a position of the valve corresponding to one of a plurality of predetermined operational states of the valve. |
| US08387655B2 |
Slurry flow control device
A system for controlling slurry flow through a flexible-walled transport tube. An example system includes a frame, a pivot pin, a rotatable radial arm having an attached pressure pad, a spring tension adjustment rod extending between the radial arm and the frame, and a coil spring concentric with the spring tension adjustment rod and configured to oppose rotation of the radial arm away from a flexible-walled transport tube contacting the pressure pad. In one operating condition, a decrease in the pressure of the slurry within the transport tube reduces the force applied by the slurry outward on the tube wall, leading the spring to rotate the radial arm toward the tube, causing the contact pad to deflect the wall of the flexible-walled transport tube and impeding the flow of slurry through the tube. |
| US08387654B2 |
Automatic pressure reducing valve
Disclosed is an automatic pressure reducing valve. A body includes a hollow portion, an inlet portion and an outlet portion for flow of a fluid and has an internal space. A cylinder is installed inside the hollow portion and has at least two holes formed in its wall. An piston is movable along the inner side of the cylinder and adjusts opening rate of the holes according to a fluid pressure difference between an inlet portion and an outlet portion. |
| US08387651B2 |
Self-draining frost-free faucet
A valve assembly for a faucet includes a spout, a valve stem, a first valve, and a second valve. The first valve is rotatably coupled to the valve stem upstream from the spout and is selectively positionable to control a flow of fluid from a fluid source to the spout. The second valve is rotatably coupled to the valve stem for selectively draining fluid from the valve assembly. Further, the second valve is coupled to the first valve such that when the first and second valves are positioned in a first operational position, fluid flows from the source through the spout, and such that when the first and second valves are positioned in a second operational position, fluid is substantially prevented from flowing from the source through the spout and residual fluid within the faucet is gravity drained from the faucet. |
| US08387647B1 |
Overpressure indicating reverse buckling disk apparatus
An overpressure indicating disk apparatus for indicating an over pressure condition in a pressurized system includes a body having first and second end portions and a bore, the first end portion configured for attachment to the pressurized system and in pressure communication therewith so that the pressure in the bore is the same pressure as the pressure of the pressurized system. A reverse buckling disk having an annular peripheral portion and a concave convex dome portion is provided. The annular peripheral portion surrounds the dome. The disk annular peripheral portion is mounted to the body, closing the bore at the first end portion. An indicating component or ring is affixed to the combination of a body and reverse buckling disk. The indicating ring has an annular peripheral portion that aligns generally with the annular peripheral portion of the reverse buckling rupture disk. A movable central tab portion is mounted inside the indicating component or ring. A hinge connects the central tab portion to the indicating ring. The concave side of the reverse buckling disk faces the central tab. The convex side of the reverse buckling disk faces the pressure inside the bore. When the pressure in the bore exceeds a preselected maximum pressure value, the disk reverses to engage and displace the central tab thereby indicating visually that an overpressure condition exists within the bore. |
| US08387645B2 |
Methods and apparatus for contacting a fluid stream with particulate solids
An apparatus and method for contacting a fluid stream with particulate solids are provided. The apparatus comprises a vessel having an upper portion and a lower portion and an inlet for receiving particulate solids and an outlet for discharging the particulate solids. An inner cone is coaxially positioned within an inverted truncated outer cone forming an annulus in the lower portion of the vessel. A truncated conical baffle is disposed within the lower portion of the vessel and at least partially above the inverted truncated outer cone and the inner cone. The truncated conical baffle has a downwardly and inwardly sloping wall with a lower portion thereof overlapping interiorly an upper portion of the inverted truncated outer cone. A plurality of guide tents are spaced apart in the annulus, each guide tent having sloped guide surfaces oriented to guide the flow of particulate solids into the outlet. |
| US08387644B2 |
Solenoid operated fluid control valve
Solenoid operated fluid control valve for a cam phasing mechanism of an internal combustion engine includes first and second control ports, a 2-stage hydraulically pilot-actuated, pressure balanced spool having an integral control feedback passage and a linear force solenoid actuator operably coupled to a pilot valve of a pilot stage. The spool valve includes an exhaust path common to pilot and spool exhaust passages. |
| US08387640B2 |
Umbrella device for automobile
A retractable umbrella includes an umbrella holder, a retractable tube, a pulling rod, a rainshade screen, and a dripping guide. The umbrella holder is for receiving a regular umbrella and holding water dripped from the regular umbrella. The retractable tube comprises retractable reels, and it is attached on a door frame of a car. Each of the retractable reels is disposed in the retractable tube. The pulling rod is attached to a rim portion of the door accepting frame of the car. The rainshade screen comprises an outer edge, an inner edge, a front edge, and a rear edge. The outer edge is attached to the retractable reels of the retractable tube. The inner edge is attached to the pulling rod. The front edge connects front portions of the inner and outer edges. The rear edge connects rear portions of the inner and outer edges. |
| US08387639B2 |
Cantilevered canopy
A portable canopy is attachable to the roof rack of a vehicle and designed to unfold outwardly over the rear of the vehicle supported in a cantilevered fashion from the roof rack. The canopy does not require separate legs or other ground support other than the roof rack of the automobile. |
| US08387629B1 |
Orthodontic flosser
An orthodontic flosser comprising an elongated handle and an articulating head coupled to the handle at a pivot is disclosed. A mechanism holds the articulating head at a selected angle with respect to an axis of the handle. A first and second projection extend from the head for suspending floss, the first projection is sized to insert floss between a wire affixed to a tooth and the tooth. A supply of fresh floss and a take-up reel are configured to feed fresh floss incrementally into suspension between the first and second projections while taking-up used floss and applying a tension to the suspended floss. |
| US08387628B2 |
System and method for toothbrush with paste dispenser
A toothbrush assembly including a toothbrush and a toothpaste cartridge. The toothbrush includes: a handle having a compartment to receive the toothpaste cartridge; a head having bristles; a door covering an opening of the compartment; and a conduit running from the compartment to the head to deliver toothpaste from the toothpaste cartridge in the compartment to the head and the bristles. The toothpaste cartridge includes: a housing having a cavity to store toothpaste; a piston having threads; a paste plate coupled to the piston via the threads; a knob coupled to the piston to turn the piston to move the paste plate along the piston toward the head of the toothbrush to dispense the toothpaste from the cavity to through the conduit into the bristles; and an end plate having at least one hole to discharge the toothpaste from the cavity of the cartridge to the conduit of the toothbrush. |
| US08387625B2 |
Oral tobacco product
An oral tobacco product which includes a tobacco pouch obtained by wrapping tobacco particles made from a tobacco material in a wrapper, the tobacco pouch allowing a user to take in tobacco components of the tobacco particles via saliva, when put in the user's mouth, and an outer wrapper individually wrapping the tobacco pouch therein. The outer wrapper has liquid impermeability and is provided with a lug for the user. |
| US08387623B2 |
Smokeless tobacco articles
Tobacco articles having tobacco disposed in a porous matrix. The tobacco articles can provide tobacco to an adult consumer in the form of particles, liquid, or vapor so as to furnish tobacco satisfaction to the consumer. The tobacco can be integrally molded with a plastic material so that at least a portion of the tobacco is disposed in pores of the matrix. |
| US08387619B2 |
Respiratory mask
A respiratory mask includes a single-piece first cushion ring defining an airflow channel and having a front cover-engaging end portion and a rear abutment end portion adapted to abut against a user's face below the forehead, a cover shell having a cover plate engaged to the front cover-engaging end portion and provided with a connecting hole that is adapted to be connected to an air supply source, a resilient forehead support connected to a top end of the front cover-engaging end portion and bendable toward the rear abutment end portion, a resilient forehead abutment body connected to a top end of and supported by the resilient forehead support and including a second cushion ring adapted to abut against the forehead of the user, and an adjustable head strap unit connected to the first cover shell and the resilient forehead abutment body. |
| US08387615B2 |
Inhaler cap strap
An inhaler (1) for dispensing doses of medicament from a container under user activation said inhaling which comprises a body (7) which includes a mouthpiece (5) through which the medicament is dispensed and a cap (2) which can be place in a position to substantially occlude the mouthpiece (5). The cap (2) is attached to said body (7) by a strap (3) which pivots from said body (7), said cap (2) being arranged to slide on the strap (3) such that the cap (2) must translate away from the mouthpiece (5) prior to the pivoting of the strap (3). |
| US08387614B2 |
Atomizer
An atomizer for a fluid, in particular, a fluid for medical aerosol therapy. In order to allow simplified operation and improved safety in use, the atomizer has a counter device for counting the number of operations of the atomizer and the number of containers inserted. The atomizer is locked against further operation and/or against removal of the current container or insertion of a new container, if a certain number of operations of the atomizer and/or a certain number of containers inserted has/have been reached or exceeded. |
| US08387612B2 |
Self-contained heating unit and drug-supply unit employing same
Heating units, drug supply units and drug delivery articles capable of rapid heating are disclosed. Heating units comprising a substrate and a solid fuel capable of undergoing an exothermic metal oxidation reaction disposed within the substrate are disclosed. These heating units can be actuated by electrical resistance, by optical ignition or by percussion. Drug supply units and drug delivery articles wherein a solid fuel is configured to heat a substrate to a temperature sufficient to rapidly thermally vaporize a drug disposed thereon are also disclosed. |
| US08387607B2 |
Mechanical drive assist for paintball loader
An paintball loader for supplying paintballs to a paintball marker is provided. The loader includes a container for storing a plurality of paintballs. An outfeed tube on the container is connected to an inlet tube on the marker. The loader further includes a drive shaft, and a feeder rotatably disposed in the container for feeding paintballs into the outfeed tube. The loader further includes a mechanical drive handle accessible externally of the loader and connected to the drive shaft to manually wind the drive spring. |
| US08387605B2 |
Toy dart launcher apparatus with momentary lock
A launcher apparatus for soft foam toy darts, the apparatus having a lock that operates momentarily during a cock and load cycle of the launcher apparatus to prevent an improper cocking operation. The launcher apparatus includes a barrel, a slide, a firing assembly and the lock. The launcher apparatus also includes three protrusions or surfaces for operative engagement with the lock to partially depress the lock, to fully depress the lock, and to disengage the lock to reset the launcher apparatus for the next cock and load cycle. During operation, one protrusion surface depresses the lock partially and momentarily, a second protrusion or surface fully depresses the lock to enable the lock to be maintained in the depressed state, and a third protrusion or surface causes the lock to be released. |
| US08387603B2 |
Compound archery bow with intermediate cable pulleys
A compound archery bow includes a bow handle having projecting limbs, and first and second pulleys mounted on the respective limbs for rotation around respective axes. A bow cable system includes a bowstring cable extending between the pulleys, and first and second power cables extending from the respective first and second pulleys toward the opposing pulley. Third and fourth pulleys are mounted on the handle. The third and fourth pulleys are engaged by the power cables and are at least partially offset from the bowstring cable so that the third and fourth pulleys hold the first and second power cables away from the bowstring cable, and the bowstring cable and an arrow engaged by the bowstring cable are unobstructed by the first and second power cables. |
| US08387602B1 |
Fishing speargun
A band-powered speargun has a release mechanism incorporating a line-drop feature for releasing a coiled line attached to a spear. An approach to attaching the line to the spear involves a linking ring having a size selected so that the ring passes over a protective cone near the spear tip and is captured by an element protruding outward from the spear shaft. The protective cone also shields hinged barbs from impact damage. The gun may also incorporate a muzzle kill spike and a separate hand-held kill spike that is normally stored in a specially designed cavity in the speargun grip. |
| US08387598B2 |
Ignition system open secondary detection
This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for detecting an open secondary condition in a secondary coil of an ignition coil using a control signal received from a control input of a switch configured to control the flow of current to a primary coil of the ignition coil. In an example, the flow of current in the primary coil of the ignition coil can be controlled using an insulated gate bipolar junction transistor (IGBT), and the open secondary condition in the secondary coil of the ignition coil can be detected using a received gate voltage of the IGBT. |
| US08387597B2 |
High-voltage generator device
A high-voltage generator device, including an inductive-capacitive resonator capable of producing a high voltage, a mechanism generating a high-frequency control pulse train, a voltage source, a capacitor, and a voltage generator including a switching transistor, the control electrode of which is connected to the output of the mechanism generating the high-frequency control pulse train, the source of the switching transistor being connect to ground, and the drain of the switching transistor being capable of delivering a voltage pulse train to the inductive-capacitive resonator in response to the control pulse train received on the control electrode of the switching transistor. The drain of the switching transistor is connected to the inductive-capacitive resonator via an isolating transformer, the isolating transformer being connected in parallel with a capacitor, the isolating transformer also being connected to the voltage source. |
| US08387593B2 |
EGR flow rate control apparatus of internal combustion engine
An EGR flow rate control apparatus of an internal combustion engine is provided that can correct with high accuracy an EGR gas flow rate measured by a gas flow rate measurement apparatus in an EGR passage and control with high accuracy a gas flow rate regulating valve to reduce discharge amounts of PM and NOx in exhaust gases. An EGR flow rate control apparatus 10 of an internal combustion engine includes a gas flow rate correction unit 45 that corrects the EGR gas flow rate based on a first operating state parameter relating to pressure fluctuations of the intake pipe or exhaust pipe of the internal combustion engine and a second operating state parameter relating to a flow channel resistance of the EGR flow channel. |
| US08387590B2 |
Reciprocating-piston internal combustion engine with engine brake and additional opening of an exhaust valve
A four-stroke internal combustion engine, having a brake controller by which pressure is built up in the exhaust system and/or at least one exhaust valve is additionally opened is provided. A hydraulic valve clearance compensation element is incorporated in at least one transmission element between the camshaft and at least one intake and exhaust valve and has at least one piston (3), a cylinder housing part (2) that interacts with the piston (3), a return spring (16) disposed therebetween, a check valve (4), and an actuatable locking device is provided which limits the movement of the piston (3) relative to the cylinder housing part (2) and/or limits the movement of the cylinder housing part (2) relative to an exterior housing (1) connected to one of the transmission elements or relative to a transmission element at least in one direction of movement, and the piston (3) is supported on a stop element (5) connected to the exterior housing (1) or the transmission element. |
| US08387583B2 |
Engine balancer
An engine balancer includes a pair of balancer shafts and a balancer housing for housing the balancer shafts, and is placed in an oil pan at the bottom of an engine. The balancer housing includes a pair of front and rear bearing walls respectively supporting the balancer shafts with rolling bearings interposed therebetween. The bearing walls of the balancer housing are attached to bearing walls for a crankshaft. The housing body has an aperture at the top thereof. The aperture of the housing body is covered with a plate-shaped cover member thinner than a member forming the housing body. |
| US08387580B2 |
Plasma ignition device for internal combustion engine
A plasma ignition device comprising: an ignition plug; an ignition circuit applying a high voltage to the plug to start discharge; a power supply circuit including a battery section for supplying an electric energy to a discharge space of the plug having impedance reduced by discharge start, and a charging section charging the battery section with a boosted voltage by a booster circuit, wherein the power supply circuit including: a first means 610 for stopping a boosting operation of the booster circuit when the charging section voltage is equal or higher than a first reference for high-voltage abnormality; a second means 630 for detecting the charging section abnormal voltage by comparison with a second reference for low-voltage abnormality for detecting ground to conduct a given control on the power supply circuit; a third means 600 for invalidating the control of the second means until the charging section is sufficiently charged. |
| US08387573B2 |
Variable compression ratio device
A variable compression ratio device that includes a piston, a piston pin, and a connecting rod of which one end is connected to the piston by the piston pin, may include an eccentric ring rotatably coupled in a ring at the one end of the connecting rod, wherein the inner circumference thereof rotatably contacts with the outer circumference of the piston pin, an operating pin that longitudinally reciprocates in the piston pin, variable sliders that selectively contact one of both ends of the operating pin under a cylinder to push the one of both ends to the opposite side, and a guide plate that slidably supports the variable sliders, wherein, one end of a variable shaft selectively rotating is connected to the variable slider and a sliding direction of the variable slider is controlled by the rotation of the variable shaft. |
| US08387570B2 |
Coke burning engine
A coke burning engine is described wherein hot coke fuel chunks are first compressed with air and reacted therewith to form a carbon monoxide rich gas, during a compression cycle time period. Next these primary reacted gases are mixed into and burned with secondary air during a blowdown cycle time period. These fully reacted gases are expanded though an expander engine whose power output drives the air compressor, and yields a net useful engine power output. |
| US08387564B2 |
Controlling a dairy stable
A dairy stable (5) and a method for controlling a stable (1), preferably a dairy stable (5) for milking livestock (4), having at least one milking system including at least one, preferably automatic, milking stations (8, 9, 12, 13, 14), and where the individual animal's access to milking is controlled, preferably via a transponder or similar on the animal. Furthermore, a milking station (8, 9, 12, 13, 14) for use in connection with a method and a dairy stable (5). In this manner, it is ensured that, within a given time interval, all animals (4) are guided to one or more selected milking stations (8, 9) at least once, where the selected milking station or stations (8, 9) are adapted in a special way with test equipment for determining various conditions of or at the milk and differently as compared to other milking stations (12, 13, 14). |
| US08387562B2 |
Plasma processor and plasma processing method
An etching chamber 1 incorporates a focus ring 9 so as to surround a semiconductor wafer W provided on a lower electrode 4. The plasma processor is provided with an electric potential control DC power supply 33 to control the electric potential of this focus ring 9, and so constituted that the lower electrode 4 is supplied with a DC voltage of, e.g., −400 to −600 V to control the electric potential of the focus ring 9. This constitution prevents surface arcing from developing along the surface of a substrate to be processed. |
| US08387561B2 |
Method and apparatus for cathodic arc ion plasma deposition
A method and apparatus for depositing a coating material on a surface of a substrate by an ion plasma deposition process using a hollow cathode is disclosed. The cathode may be a substantially cylindrical hollow cathode. A plasma arc is formed on the outer circumference of the cathode to remove coating material from the cathode, which is then deposited on a surface of a substrate. An internal arc drive magnet is contained within the hollow bore of the cathode and cooling is provided to the magnet during operation. |
| US08387559B2 |
Semiconductor manufacturing plant
Fluorine gas generators are connected with semiconductor manufacturing apparatuses through a gas supplying system including a storage tank that can store a predetermined quantity of fluorine gas generated in the on-site fluorine gas generators. When one or more of the on-site fluorine gas generators are stopped, fluorine gas is supplied to the semiconductor manufacturing apparatuses from the storage tank storing a predetermined quantity of fluorine gas, so as to keep the operations of the semiconductor manufacturing apparatuses. Thereby obtained is a semiconductor manufacturing plant in which fluorine gas generated in the fluorine gas generators can be safely and stably supplied to the semiconductor manufacturing apparatuses, and with superior cost performance. |
| US08387557B2 |
Method for forming silicon-containing materials during a photoexcitation deposition process
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a method for depositing films or layers using a UV source during a photoexcitation process. The films are deposited on a substrate and usually contain a material, such as silicon (e.g., epitaxy, crystalline, microcrystalline, polysilicon, or amorphous), silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, or other silicon-containing materials. The photoexcitation process may expose the substrate and/or gases to an energy beam or flux prior to, during, or subsequent a deposition process. Therefore, the photoexcitation process may be used to pre-treat or post-treat the substrate or material, to deposit the silicon-containing material, and to enhance chamber cleaning processes. Attributes of the method that are enhanced by the UV photoexcitation process include removing native oxides prior to deposition, removing volatiles from deposited films, increasing surface energy of the deposited films, increasing the excitation energy of precursors, reducing deposition time, and reducing deposition temperature. |
| US08387553B2 |
Coating abluminal surfaces of stents and other implantable medical devices
A sleeve is positioned over a radially-expandable rod assembly and a stent is positioned over the sleeve. A mandrel is inserted into the rod assembly to thereby press the sleeve against the inner surface of the stent and expand the stent. A coating (such as a solvent, a polymer and/or a therapeutic substance) is then applied to the outer (abluminal) surfaces of the stent, by spraying, for example. The sleeve advantageously prevents the coating material from being applied to inner (luminal) surfaces of the stent and also allows the coating material to be efficiently applied to the abluminal surfaces. |
| US08387548B2 |
Marine-vessel, anti-puncture, self-sealing, water-leak protection
An anti-puncture, water-leak-inhibiting, self-sealing, coating structure for application selectively to inside and/or outside portions of a boat hull. The coating structure, in operative condition with respect to such a hull portion, includes a body of continuous-phase, non-water-reactive, high-elastomeric-material, and, embedded within that body, in an initially shrouded and non-exposed condition guarded nominally against any contact with external water, a distribution of water-reactive, water-imbiber beads. |
| US08387544B1 |
Method and apparatus for ornamental table top
Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and apparatus for an ornamental table with an ornamental table top design. The ornamental table simplifies the manufacture of ornamental table top designs and affords speedy ornamental design variations. The ornamental table comprises a table top frame, and a set of table legs coupled to the table top frame wherein the table top frame includes a plurality of support bars attached to the table top frame interconnected to produce a grid-like pattern. A plurality of large tiles is set on top of the grid-like pattern to produce a first ornamental design. A channel is coupled to the support bars surrounding a perimeter of the grid-like pattern and a plurality of small tiles is set within the channel to produce a second ornamental design. |
| US08387543B2 |
Extendable table for use with an outdoor umbrella
An extendable table comprises a frame, a table top portion, and a cutout filling mechanism. The table top portion is slidably attached to the frame and defines a cutout. The cutout filling mechanism is attached to the table top portion and comprises a filler portion. In use, the cutout filling mechanism is operative to place at least a portion of the filler portion into the cutout when the cutout is not occupied by another object. The cutout filling mechanism is also operative to place the filler portion outside the cutout when the cutout is occupied by another object. |
| US08387540B2 |
Interceptor projectile and method of use
An interceptor projectile includes a deployable net that deploys during flight and wraps around an incoming projectile, such as a rocket propelled grenade (RPG). The net is initially in a tubular body of the interceptor projectile. Weights are attached to ends of the net with metal cables. A propellant is used to deploy the net from the tubular body and to deploy the weights at acute angles to the longitudinal axis of the interceptor projectile. The weights move radially out from the interceptor projectile, expanding the net outward, and wrapping the net around an incoming projectile. The engagement of the net with the incoming projectile disables the incoming projectile, sending the incoming projectile off course. |
| US08387538B2 |
Projectile having casing that includes multiple flachettes
Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a propellant and a casing that encloses the propellant such that the casing acts as a reaction chamber during flight of the projectile. The casing includes a plurality of flechettes. When the projectile strikes (or is near) a target, a large internal sheer pressure forms within the casing. This sheer pressure causes the flechettes to sheer apart at the thinnest sections of the casing. Once the thin sections of the casing are sheered apart, the flechettes will be unconstrained such that the flechettes take individual flight paths. |
| US08387537B2 |
Consumable cartridge for muzzle loading firearms
A consumable cartridge for a muzzle loading firearm having a consumable cartridge case composed of a consumable solid material is set forth. The cartridge case including a central internal cavity, the cartridge case having a closed first end and a second end open to the central internal cavity for receipt of granular, explosive powder within the central internal cavity of the cartridge case and a bullet is secured to the closed first end of the cartridge case. The cartridge case is shaped and dimensioned for positioning within a bore of a rifle along with the bullet. |
| US08387529B2 |
Stamps with micrometer-and nanometer-scale features and methods of fabrication thereof
Stamps and methods of making stamps for applications in anti-counterfeiting and authentication. The stamps are relatively small in size and feature nanoscale and microscale identification regions and features. High throughput manufacturing and high resolution methods are used to make the stamps including electron beam lithography and optical lithography. Anti-fouling coatings can be applied. |
| US08387526B2 |
Precision press device and press load control method thereof
The present invention provides a precision press device and a press load control method thereof for downsizing a vacuum chamber in press work in the vacuum chamber, shortening a time required to reach a vacuum and further performing high accuracy pressure control. To downsize a chamber 16, a pressure sensor is set up outside the chamber 16 and a cylinder chamber 17 is formed to allow a tubular plunger 7 to slide up and down using the tubular shape of the chamber 16. A negative pressure 22 in the chamber 16 attracts the pressurized section 2 and the pressurizing section 1 to each other, but by injecting an equivalent pressure 19 of a fluid into the cylinder chamber 17, pushing out the tubular plunger 7, the attractive forces are canceled out. It is possible to control the load on the substrate or the like transferred by the press stage with high accuracy. |
| US08387523B2 |
Rocker assembly of a strapping machine
A rocker assembly of a strapping machine has a rocker having a seat, a positioning panel mounted on the seat and being able to swing, and two teeth panels slidably mounted on the positioning panel. When a fixed end and a tightening end of a wrapping strap are mounted between the rocker assembly and a tensioning wheel, the teeth panels slide and the positioning panel swings to adjust engaging surfaces and engaging forces between the teeth panels and the wrapping strap according to thickness of the wrapping strap. Thus the wrapping strap is able to securely wrap around the goods and is not scratched. |
| US08387518B2 |
Vertical rotisserie cooking system
A vertical rotisserie open flame oven having a central flame post dispersing aesthetically pleasing flames and a secondary heater positioned outside the path of rotation of the food items. The oven has a central chamber area where the heat transfer to the food items is executed in a desirable manner to properly cook the food items without burning the surface thereof. |
| US08387517B2 |
Tea kettle with detachable infuser and integrated thermometer
A tea kettle and related methods for preparing an optimally flavored hot tea. The tea kettle is capable of heating water for steeping tea leaves and steeping the packaged or loose leaf tea leaves within the tea kettle. The tea kettle can include an integrated heating element for heating the water. The tea kettle includes an integrated thermometer and can include an integrated timer for tracking the water temperature and steep time respectively so as to insure that the tea leaves steep at the proper temperature and duration of time. The tea kettle can include a detachable mesh infuser that attaches to a lid of the tea kettle for holding tea leaves during steeping. |
| US08387514B2 |
Hydrostatic piston machine with output volume flow in the circumferential direction
A hydrostatic piston machine with a cylinder drum, which is rotatably mounted in a housing, is provided. A plurality of cylinder bores are disposed in the cylinder drum, which bores can be connected via cylinder openings provided in the cylinder drum to a first control opening and a second control opening. The first control opening is connected to a low-pressure line and the second control opening to a high-pressure line. The first control opening is connected via a first connection and a second connection to a channel, wherein the first connection and, lying opposite, the second connection are disposed at the first control opening. |
| US08387511B2 |
Armored cab for vehicles
An armored cab having at least an upper wall, two side walls, a front wall, a back wall, and a bottom wall. The armored cab and its respective walls include a longitudinal axis extending from the back wall to the front wall. The bottom wall includes at least one concave surface. The at least one concave surface faces downwardly and away from the armored cab, and is disposed in a direction substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the armored cab. |
| US08387510B1 |
Composite armor system including a ceramic-embedded heterogeneously layered polymeric matrix
The present invention's stratified composite material system of armor, as typically embodied, comprises a strike stratum and a backing stratum. The strike stratum includes elastomeric matrix material and inventive ceramic-inclusive elements embedded therein and arranged (e.g., in one or more rows and one or more columns) along a geometric plane corresponding to the front (initial strike) surface of the strike stratum. More rigid than the strike stratum, the backing stratum is constituted by, e.g., metallic (metal or metal alloy) material or fiber-reinforced polymeric matrix material. Some inventive embodiments also comprise a spall-containment stratum fronting the strike stratum. The inventive ceramic-inclusive elements geometrically describe any of various inventive modes, including: first mode, having a flat front face and a textured back face; second mode, having a pyramidal front section and a prismatoidal (especially, prismoidal, e.g., truncated pyramidal or prismatic) body section; hybrid mode, combining features of first and second modes. |
| US08387508B2 |
Support member for supporting shell, and method
The invention relates to a support member for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon, and a method. The support member (6) comprises means for fastening a support element (8) to at least one fin (5) belonging to the tail end (4) of a shell (1). The means comprise at least one fastening piece (10), which comprises: at least one first fastening surface (14a), which may be arranged substantially parallel with a side of the fin (5), and which fastening piece (10) may be supported to the support element (8); at least one second fastening surface (14b), which second fastening surface (14b) is movably arranged so that the second fastening surface (14b) is movable in relation to the first fastening surface (14a) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) of the shell (1); and means for pressing the fastening surfaces (14a, 14b) against the sides of the fin (5) arranged between them so as to provide friction locking between the fastening piece (10) and the fin (5). |
| US08387503B2 |
Pyrotechnic device for destroying ammunitions
The invention relates to a pyrotechnic device for the destruction of munitions by an explosive at least partially surrounding the munitions having walls for confining the active products. The device includes an igniter for the controlled ignition of the explosive, the igniter configured to couple explosive detonation waves into the walls of the munitions along at least two opening lines of said walls of the munitions. Application of embodiments of the invention includes controlled destruction of munitions or objects containing pyrotechnic and/or chemical substances. |
| US08387499B2 |
Linear saw with stab-cut bevel capability
A method for automatically cutting a workpiece comprising the steps of moving a workpiece along its longitudinal axis, positioning a cutting blade by rotating the blade about a vertical axis, positioning the cutting blade by rotating about a bevel axis, and vertically moving the blade into cutting contact with the workpiece, thereby stab cutting the workpiece and creating a bevel cut. The method may also comprise moving the blade along a transverse axis. Further steps may include moving the cutting blade along a transverse axis simultaneous to moving the workpiece along it longitudinal axis, thereby creating a scarf cut. |
| US08387497B2 |
Extensible absorbent layer and absorbent article
The present invention provides a method of preparing an absorbent layer from an absorbent nonwoven web having a first plurality of slits with a first orientation and a second plurality of slits with a second orientation, wherein the first orientation is different from the second orientation. The first plurality of slits and the second plurality of slits are at least partially through the absorbent nonwoven web, and the second plurality of slits at least partially intersects the first plurality to form apertures in the absorbent nonwoven web. |
| US08387484B2 |
Gear-change control device for a bicycle
A gear change control device for a bicycle having a handlebar with straight end portions, comprises a first control lever with a control portion arranged behind the end portion of the handlebar, with reference to the longitudinal direction of the bicycle, and extending at least partially at a position lying substantially at the same level of the handlebar, with respect to a vertical direction in the condition of use of the handlebar and a second control lever with a control portion arranged at the same level, below or upper the control portion of the first control lever. |
| US08387481B2 |
Horizontal multiple articulation type robot
A horizontal multijoint type robot is so constructed that it comprises a first arm connected through a first joint shaft to a base, a second arm connected through a second joint shaft to the first arm, and a working shaft provided rotatably and movably up and down on the distal end of the second arm, and that the arm length L1 of the first arm and the arm length L2 of the second arm are equal to each other so that the second arm is able to overlap the first arm. |
| US08387476B2 |
Hydraulic actuation valve arrangement for dual clutch transmission
A control system is provided for a multiple clutch transmission (10) having at least three synchronizers (74, 76, 78, 80) with opposed acting alpha and beta pressure chambers (106, 104) to selectively synchronize alpha or beta gears with a rotating shaft. The control system includes a pressure source (124), a sump (120), a first multiplex valve (160) having a first position allowing fluid communication of alpha and beta chambers for two synchronizers (74, 76) with the pressure source (122) and diverting alpha and beta pressure chambers (106, 104) of remaining synchronizers (80, 78) to sump (120). The first multiplex valve (160) has a second position reversing the above action. A second multiplex valve (164) connected with the first multiplex valve (160) having a first position connecting alpha and beta chambers (106, 104) of a given synchronizer with the pressure source (122) and alpha and beta chambers (106, 104) of the other synchronizer with the sump (120). The second multiplex valve (164) has a second position reversing the action. A first regulator valve (170) is connected with the second multiplex valve (164) for selectively connecting the alpha chamber (106) with one of a set of the pressure source (122) and the sump (120). A second regulator valve is provided connected with the second multiplex valve (164) for selectively connecting the beta chamber (104) with one of a set of the pressure source (122) and the (sump 120). |
| US08387469B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for structural health monitoring
Embodiments can provide systems, methods, and apparatus for monitoring the structural health of one or more structures and associated materials. For example, a structural health monitoring system can be provided. The system can include a structure to be monitored, the structure including a material with multiple triboluminescent sensors and multiple nano-optoelectronic members; and an analyzer in signal communication with the nano-optoelectronic members. |
| US08387467B2 |
Method for testing the coating of a vane base
A method for testing a coating for blade roots, includes: providing a disk test piece including at least one bearing surface and a blade test piece including at least one bearing surface coated with the coating to be tested, the blade test piece including two test piece halves adapted to be engaged on either side of the disk test piece, and subjecting the blade test piece engaged with the disk test piece to tensile cycles during which the test pieces undergo tensile stress with respect to each other in a tensile direction, the tensile strain being transmitted via the bearing surfaces contacting the blade test piece and the disk test piece. The method allows for very faithful reproduction of the behavior and ageing of the coating and thus allows for accurate evaluation of the quality of the coatings. |
| US08387463B2 |
Pressure-based diagnostic system for process transmitter
A process transmitter for measuring a process variable in an industrial process comprises a gauge pressure sensor, an excitation source and transmitter circuitry. The gauge pressure sensor measures a pressure difference between a process fluid and a reference volume, and generates a pressure sensor signal representing the pressure difference. The excitation source generates a pressure pulse within the reference volume to influence generation of the pressure sensor signal. The transmitter circuitry is connected to the gauge pressure sensor to provide an output related to a change in the pressure sensor signal due to the pressure pulse. |
| US08387456B2 |
Gravity gradient sensor
A gravimeter for detecting a gravity difference between two points is disclosed. The gravimeter comprises an interferometric arrangement wherein the length of a reference arm is dependent upon the gravity local to a first accelerometer and the length of a sample arm is dependent upon the gravity local to a second accelerometer. A pair of photodetectors that operate in complimentary fashion provide electrical signals based on a first signal conveyed by the reference arm and a second signal conveyed by the sample arm. A change in the differential gravity between the two points induces equal and opposite changes to the magnitudes of the two electrical signals. |
| US08387447B2 |
Particulate matter measuring device
An object of this invention is to improve resistance to heat and to increase a measurable range of a pressure without increasing a cost. In order to attain the object, a first unit arranged near an exhaust gas pipe and a second unit arranged separately from the first unit and connected to the first unit through a connecting pipe are provided, and the first unit has an exhaust gas flow channel from one end of which an exhaust gas is introduced, an orifice part arranged in a midst of the exhaust gas flow channel, a pressure rising check valve of a mechanically operating type that is connected to a downstream side of the orifice part in the exhaust gas flow channel, and a dilution gas flow channel that is connected to a downstream side of the orifice part in the exhaust gas flow channel so that the diluted exhaust gas diluted by the dilution gas is derived from the other end of the exhaust gas flow channel. |
| US08387446B2 |
Measuring device in a radiofrequency ignition system for internal combustion engine
A measuring device including: a supply circuit for radiofrequency ignition including a transformer including a secondary winding connected to at least one resonator having a resonance frequency higher than 1 MHz, and including two electrodes capable of generating a spark upon an ignition control; a measuring capacitor connected in series between the secondary winding and the resonator; a measuring circuit of ionization current of the combustion gases in a cylinder of the internal combustion engine associated with the resonator, the circuit being connected at terminals of the measuring capacitor; and/or a measuring circuit that measures a voltage at the resonator terminals upon an ignition control, the circuit being connected to terminals of the measuring capacitor. |
| US08387443B2 |
Microcantilever with reduced second harmonic while in contact with a surface and nano scale infrared spectrometer
Described herein are devices and methods for sensing pulsed forces. Some of the described devices and methods are also useful for measuring infrared absorbances and compiling spectral and chemical maps of surfaces. Also described are microcantilever having reduced harmonic frequencies when operating in contact mode. Some of the described microcantilevers comprise an internal resonator configured to vibrate substantially independent of friction between the microcantilever tip and a surface when the microcantilever operates in contact mode. A number of the described devices and methods are useful for monitoring pulsed forces with enhanced sensitivity. |
| US08387440B2 |
Method for detecting a fuel leakage in an aircraft engine and system for carrying out said method
A method for detecting and localizing a fuel leakage in the engine of a multi-engine aircraft consisting in determining a fuel consumption for each aircraft engine, in comparing the consumption of each engine with the other aircraft engines, in determining the engine exhibiting the greater fuel consumption ratio, in determining the excess consumption ratio of the aforementioned engine with respect to the other engines, in checking whether the excessive consumption is caused by a leakage and in triggering an alarm if the step is checked. A system for detecting and localizing a fuel leakage in the engine of a multi-engine aircraft including an airborne computer for carrying out the aforementioned method is also disclosed. |
| US08387439B2 |
Method and device for determining a signal offset of a roll rate sensor
In order to determine a signal offset (OFS_SIG) of a roll rate sensor in a vehicle (10), a roll rate sensor signal (OMEGA_ROLL_SIG) is detected. A transversal acceleration (AC) of the vehicle (10) is determined. A temporal derivative (DRV_AC) of the transversal acceleration (AC) is determined. Verification is made as to whether a value of the temporal derivative (DRV_AC) of the transversal acceleration (AC) is smaller than a predefined first threshold value (THD—1). The signal offset (OFS_SIG) of the roll rate sensor is determined in accordance with the roll rate sensor signal (OMEGA_ROLL_SIG) if the value of the temporal derivative (DRV_AC) of the transversal acceleration (AC) is smaller than the predefined first threshold value (THD—1). |
| US08387436B2 |
Alignment device and methods of using the same
An alignment device is located on a mandrel of an installation tool and is used to align a structural member in an opening of a workpiece while seating a radial flange of the structural member against a first surface of the workpiece. The alignment device comprises a disk-shaped device having an outer surface, an inner surface forming an opening through the alignment device, and where the opening is sized to be at least slightly smaller than a major diameter of an expansion portion of the mandrel. In one embodiment, the alignment is nylon to allow the inner surface of the alignment device to be repeatedly, radially expanded and yet the opening formed by the inner surface returns to its original size. |
| US08387433B2 |
Method for applying a coolant
There is described a method for applying a coolant to a rolled product and/or to at least one cylinder of a roll stand provided with a rolling gap. During the method the following steps can occur: determining a total cooling rate applicable according to the effective power in the rolling gap, determining the cooling rate for several areas according to a flatness distribution determined b a flatness measuring system, wherein the difference in the cooling rate is determined by comparing the totality of the thus determined cooling rates with a predetermined total cooling rate and is used for determining the components of an additional cooling rate for the areas taking into account the top and lower limits of the cooling rate thereof. Said procedure is repeated in such a way that the coolant differences remain above a predefinable value. |
| US08387427B2 |
Water jet peening method and apparatus thereof
A high-pressure water jet is injected from a nozzle scanned and a shock wave generated due to the collapse of bubbles included in the water jet is impacted on a WJP execution object. Tensile residual stress close to the surface of the WJP execution object is improved to compressive residual stress. The shock wave is detected by a pressure sensor and a shock wave generation frequency is obtained. Whether the obtained shock wave generation frequency is larger than a set value or not is decided. When the shock wave generation frequency is larger than the set value, a high-pressure pump is stopped and the injection of the water jet from the nozzle is stopped. When the shock wave generation frequency is equal to or smaller than the set value, the operation condition of the high-pressure pump is changed. The pressure of the water jet injected from the nozzle is increased and the WJP is executed for a part of the WJP execution object where the shock wave generation frequency is equal to or smaller than the set value. Improvement effect of the residual stress of the WJP execution object can be confirmed more accurately. |
| US08387426B2 |
Metallic strip and methods and structures incorporating the same
A method of forming a flexible conduit including: providing an elongated flexible metallic strip having a central portion disposed between a first and a second end portion, wherein at least a portion of the central portion includes a cross-sectional thickness TC which is less than a maximum cross-sectional thickness TM of the elongated shaped strip; rolling the first end portion in a first direction and the second end portion in a second direction generally opposite the first direction to form a shaped flexible strip; and helically winding the shaped flexible strip upon itself. |
| US08387425B2 |
Movable key combination element and lock assembly
A key device for use with more than one lock, the key device including a shaft portion, and at least one movable key combination element retained within the shaft portion and including first and second portions adjacent one another, the first portion of the at least one movable key combination element being located along on the shaft portion and the second portion of the at least one movable key combination element being located offset to the first portion. |
| US08387424B2 |
Method for making a rotating lock for an automotive vehicle
The invention relates to a method for making a rotating lock (10) for the locking system of an automotive vehicle, that comprises at least first and second complementary parts (5, 6) that can be assembled in at least one overlap area (7) for defining a stator (12) inside which a rotor (11) can be rotated, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a first step for assembling the two parts (5, 6) in order to position in said overlap area (7) at least one opening (32) formed in the first part of the stator (6) opposite the opening of a corresponding cavity (34) formed in the second part of the stator (5); a second crimping step during which a crimping punch (22) is introduced in each opening (32) for at least partially deforming the wall of the opening (32) in the direction of the corresponding cavity (34) in order to crimp the assembly of the two parts of the stator (5, 6). |
| US08387421B2 |
Drum-type washing machine
A drum type washing machine is provided. The drum type washing machine may include a cabinet, a tub fixed to an inner side of the cabinet, a drum rotatably arranged in the tub, and a driving motor positioned at a rear side of the drum for generating a driving force that rotates the drum. The washing machine may also include a supporting plate to rotatably support a rotational shaft extending between the motor and the drum, and a plurality of supporters connected between the supporting plate and the cabinet. Such an arrangement may increase washing capacity by increasing a diameter of the drum without increasing an external size of the cabinet. |
| US08387417B2 |
Method and apparatus for collecting fibrous material
It is an object of the present invention to uniformly disperse fibrous material such as short glass fibers so as to be distributed on a collection conveyor, without using compressed air for dispersion of the fibrous material.The present invention provides a method for collecting fibrous material, wherein the fibrous material fiberized by a spinner of a fiberizing unit is dispersed by a hollow bucket disposed just under the spinner, so as to be collected on a collection conveyor disposed below the hollow bucket, comprising: forming said hollow bucket by connecting a blasting section having an oval opening at its lower end, with a waistline section as a lower end of a hopper section having a circular shape in cross section, and deforming the inner surface of the blasting section toward said oval opening, thereby dispersing the fibrous material dropped in the hollow bucket in a width direction of the collection conveyor from the blasting section, so as to be collected on the collection conveyor. |
| US08387416B2 |
Device and method for manufacturing a preform for optical fibres by chemical vapour deposition
A method and device for manufacturing a preform for optical fibers through chemical deposition on a substrate for deposition arranged vertically is described, comprising a chemical deposition chamber including at least one gripping member rotatably mounted about an axis Z-Z and adapted to hold at least one end of at least one elongated element constituting a substrate for chemical deposition for the formation of a preform for optical fibers. The chamber includes, moreover, at least one burner which is mobile along a direction Z substantially parallel to said axis Z-Z and adapted to deposit, on said at least one elongated element, a chemical substance for the formation of a preform and at least one suction element for collecting exhaust chemical substances, said at least one suction element being arranged on the opposite side to said at least one burner with respect to said axis Z-Z and being mobile along said direction Z. Said at least one suction element is advantageously positioned at a different height (preferably lower) with respect to that of said at least one burner to optimise the fluid dynamic conditions inside the chemical deposition chamber. |
| US08387411B2 |
Refrigeration apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus uses carbon dioxide as a refrigerant, and includes a two-stage-compression-type compression mechanism, a heat source-side heat exchanger, an expansion mechanism, a usage-side heat exchanger, and an intercooler. The intercooler uses air as a heat source. The intercooler is configured and arranged to cool refrigerant flowing through an intermediate refrigerant tube that draws refrigerant discharged from the first-stage compression element into the second-stage compression element. The intercooler is integrated with the heat source-side heat exchanger to form an integrated heat exchanger, with the intercooler disposed in an upper part of the integrated heat exchanger. |
| US08387410B2 |
Air cooling type chiller
An air-cooling type chiller is provided. The chiller may include a plurality of fans, and an intermediate device provided between adjacent fans of the plurality of fans. When one of the fans is disabled, air is not drawn in through the disabled fan due to the intermediate device, but instead may pass through a condenser, thereby minimizing degradation in condensing efficiency. The intermediate device may be formed as an auxiliary condenser so that any air drawn in through a disabled fan passes through the auxiliary condenser, also minimizing impact on condensing efficiency. |
| US08387409B2 |
Sanitized water dispenser
A method and apparatus for sanitizing a water dispenser that dispenses water for human consumption is disclosed. The dispenser can be in the form of any dispenser that dispenses water for human consumption employing a reservoir that dispenses water through one or more spigots. Water in the reservoir is sanitized with an air/ozone gas mixture that is transmitted to a porous polymeric diffuser having a central bore and a porous wall. The porosity of the porous wall defines bubble size. |
| US08387405B2 |
Antimicrobial ultraviolet light system for refrigerator sanitation
A refrigerator is adapted to include a plurality of ultraviolet light bars, which may be adjustably connected to sufficiently radiate UV light throughout the refrigerator compartment in connection with a control box and power cord which operate to control the bacterial level present on and around foodstuffs being stored therein. A series of UV light bars are capable of being arranged and plugged into one another by daisy chain to allow for a timer-controlled illumination of UV light to radiate throughout the compartment. Sensors in the control box signal the timer, and a wire ribbon extending from the control box provides a connection to the external power source without significantly affecting the seal of the refrigerator door. Power is supplied to the UV light sources via a ribbon-type power cable passing from the refrigerator interior compartment to the exterior by passing between the refrigerator and the refrigerator door and over the peripheral gasket, whereby power may be supplied to said control box by connection of said male electrical plug to an electrical outlet without significantly affecting the integrity of the thermal seal. |
| US08387403B2 |
Goods presentation refrigerator with air flow provisions for preventing condensation on door
A cooling goods presentation refrigerator for presenting refrigerated goods or frozen goods has a vertical access opening to the goods chamber that is subdivided into vertically superposed compartments. The current of cooling air is conducted out of the head part directly into the shelf compartments arranged underneath it, during which the cooling air flows from the top downward through one shelf compartment after the other. From the lowest shelf compartment, the air is trapped in a collection chamber arranged underneath it and subsequently prepared by the cooling unit for the next circulation. The head part of the goods presentation refrigerator includes an air-permeable separating wall against the adjacent shelf compartment. The shelf compartment bottoms are air-permeable, so that the current of cooling air can flow successively downward through the shelf compartments. |
| US08387400B2 |
Thermal management for fuel injectors
Methods of managing fuel temperatures in fuel injectors for gas turbine engines include cooling fuel circuits by initiating fuel flow therethrough using opened, closed, and semi-open control techniques. A fuel injector for a gas turbine engine includes a feed arm having a fuel inlet fitting for delivering fuel to at least one fuel conduit extending through the feed arm. A nozzle body depends from the feed arm and has at least one fuel circuit extending therethrough. The fuel circuit is configured and adapted to receive fuel from the feed arm and to issue fuel from an exit orifice of the nozzle body. Sensing means are provided adjacent to the at least one fuel circuit. The sensing means are configured and adapted to provide temperature feedback in order to control fuel flow in the at least one fuel circuit to maintain fuel temperature within a predetermined range. |
| US08387398B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling the secondary injection of fuel
A combustor (28) for a gas turbine engine is provided comprising a primary combustion chamber (30) for combusting a first fuel to form a combustion flow stream (50) and a transition piece (32) located downstream from the primary combustion chamber (30). The transition piece (32) comprises a plurality of injectors (66) located around a circumference of the transition piece (32) for injecting a second fuel into the combustion flow stream (50). The injectors (66) are effective to create a radial temperature profile (74) at an exit (58) of the transition piece (32) having a reduced coefficient of variation relative to a radial temperature profile (64) at an inlet (54) of the transition piece (32). Methods for controlling the temperature profile of a secondary injection are also provided. |
| US08387397B2 |
Flow conditioner for use in gas turbine component in which combustion occurs
A gas turbine component in which combustion occurs. The gas turbine component includes a liner, including a first surface facing a first space and a second surface facing a second space, the liner being interposed between the first and second spaces and having a through-hole defined therein extending from the first to the second surface by which incoming flows proceed from the first space and to the second space. At least the first surface is formed to flow condition the incoming flows to resist separating from sidewalls of the through-hole. |
| US08387392B2 |
Fuel injection system and burner using the same
Disclosed herein is a fuel injection system, including: a fuel injection module including a primary fuel injector and one or more secondary fuel injectors disposed around the primary fuel injector; an air supply module for supplying air to the fuel injection module inwardly and outwardly; and a fuel supply module for supplying fuel to the fuel injection module, wherein the fuel injection module serves to generate multistage flames in a burner by forming a rich fuel flame region using the primary fuel injector and forming a lean fuel flame region behind the rich fuel flame region using the secondary fuel injectors through a burning process of gasifying secondary fuel. |
| US08387388B2 |
Turbine blade
The invention relates to a method for increasing the steam mass flow of a high-pressure steam turbine of a steam power plant, particularly a steam power plant including reheating, during a start-up phase of the steam power plant, particularly also during an idle period of the steam power plant, wherein at least one electric consumer is connected upstream of a generator of the steam power plant before synchronization with a power supply grid. The invention further relates to a steam power plant, comprising a generator, a high-pressure steam turbine, and at least one electric consumer, which can also be connected during a start-up phase of the steam power plant, particularly also during an idle period of the steam power plant, in order to increase a steam mass flow of the high-pressure steam turbine before a synchronization process of the generator with a power supply grid. |
| US08387387B1 |
Floating solar pond energy conversion apparatus
A horizontal structure defines an expansive floating solar pond underlain by an open-ended chamber, and a distributed network of heat engines produce electricity based on the temperature differential between the heated solar pond water and ambient seawater. Each heat engine includes a heat exchanger disposed near the bottom of the solar pond, a working fluid boiler at least partially submerged in the solar pond, a turbine-generator, and a working vapor condenser disposed under the solar pond in the open-ended chamber. A heat exchange fluid is circulated through the heat exchanger and the boiler to vaporize working fluid for powering the turbine-generator, and cold ambient seawater is passed through the condenser to condense working vapor downstream of the turbine-generator. Warmed seawater from the condenser is exhausted into the open-ended chamber, where it is naturally retained by convection to minimize heat transfer from the solar pond to the ambient seawater. |
| US08387382B1 |
Diesel engine with air boosted turbocharger
A booster mechanism is selectively connected to an exhaust turbine which consequently powers an intake air compressor. The booster mechanism applies additional power to the exhaust turbine in order to give the engine full or near full torque above idle revolutions per minute (RPM). In one embodiment, the booster mechanism comprises an air flask which contains pressurized air or another pressurized air source that can be utilized to provide a pressure source for additional power to the exhaust turbine. |
| US08387381B2 |
Electric booster
The present invention relates to an electric booster in which a rotation of an electric motor is converted into a linear motion and transmitted to an output member by a rotation-linear motion mechanism, and the output member pushes a piston of a master cylinder to generate a brake fluid pressure in a pressure chamber in the master cylinder. The present invention is characterized in that an ECU casing containing boards and the like such as a board for controlling the electric motor is coupled to the top of a motor casing constituting the electric motor. The ECU casing is offset in one direction in a plane perpendicular to a plane containing an axis of the master cylinder. A male connector is provided at a side surface of the ECU casing on the opposite side from the offset direction F side, and a space between the male connector and an interference area of the ECU casing with the other components and devices is utilized as a space for attachment/detachment of the male connector to/from the female connector. |
| US08387375B2 |
Systems and methods for optimizing thermal efficiency of a compressed air energy storage system
Systems, methods and devices for optimizing thermal efficiency within a gas compression system are described herein. In some embodiments, a device can include a first hydraulic cylinder, a second hydraulic cylinder, and a hydraulic actuator. The first hydraulic cylinder has a first working piston disposed therein for reciprocating movement in the first hydraulic cylinder and which divides the first hydraulic cylinder into a first hydraulic chamber and a second hydraulic chamber. The second hydraulic cylinder has a second working piston disposed therein for reciprocating movement in the second hydraulic cylinder and which divides the second hydraulic cylinder into a third hydraulic chamber and a fourth hydraulic chamber. The hydraulic actuator can be coupled to the first or second working piston, and is operable to move the first and second working pistons in a first direction and a second direction such that volume in the hydraulic chambers are reduced accordingly. |
| US08387366B2 |
Reducing agent injection valve abnormality detection device and abnormality detection method, and internal combustion engine exhaust gas purification system
A reducing agent injection device is equipped with a storage tank that houses a reducing agent, a pump that pressure-feeds the reducing agent, a reducing agent injection valve that injects the reducing agent pressure-fed by the pump into the inside of an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine, a supply path that interconnects the pump and the reducing agent injection valve, and a pressure sensor that is disposed in the supply path. The reducing agent injection device is configured such that it can suck, into the inside of the supply path, a gas inside the exhaust pipe via an injection hole in the reducing agent injection valve by subjecting the inside of the supply path to depressurization processing. An abnormality detection device detects clogging of the reducing agent injection valve in the reducing agent injection device and includes a clogging determination component. The clogging determination component uses a pressure value detected by the pressure sensor after the start of the depressurization processing to determine whether or not clogging is occurring in the reducing agent injection valve. |
| US08387356B2 |
Method of increasing power output of a combined cycle power plant during select operating periods
A method of increasing output of a combined cycle power plant with supplemental duct firing from a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) during select periods includes guiding a reheat steam flow to at least one reheat attemperator fluidly connected to the HRSG during the select period. The method further includes increasing reheat attemperation water flow through the at least one reheat attemperator, decreasing a set point temperature of the at least one reheat attemperator for the select period to a lower set point temperature, and raising power output of the combined cycle power plant during the select period. |
| US08387353B2 |
Off-the-road steel cord with crimped strands
A steel cord (10) adapted for the reinforcement of rubber products, the steel cord (10) comprises a core (12) and three or more outer strands (14) twisted around the core (12) in a cord twisting direction. The outer strands (14) comprise outer filaments (16) twisted in a strand twisting direction which is the same as the cord twisting direction. The outer strands (14) have a wavy form which makes spaces between the core (12) and the outer strands. The steel cord (10) has improvements on elongation at break and impact resistance capacity. |
| US08387352B2 |
Cornhead divider lift assist linkage
A corn head divider lift assist linkage comprises two members and a spring pivotally coupled together, wherein one of the two members is pivotally coupled to a row crop divider and another of the two members is pivotally coupled to a bracket that is fixed at the rear of two adjacent row units. |
| US08387349B2 |
Machine for cartoning products
A machine for cartoning products incorporates a cardboard box forming section, at least one box conveyor, and one robotic loading section. The machine includes a section for closing boxes, for example by folding and gluing the respective flaps. The closing section is fed directly by the box conveyor. During the closing operation, a servo-train of the conveyor is operated with a forward motion synchronized with the work cycle of a closing device of the closing section. |
| US08387346B1 |
Method of gift box wrapping
A method of gift box wrapping utilizing a pre-formed and pre-taped wrapping paper sheet, having a marking on a back side thereof which divides the sheet into a first end and a second end, a placement area within the marking, and an embossed label integrally disposed on the sheet front side, with which a user wraps a gift box without the use of scissors and a roll of tape. A user places a gift box within the placement area and folds the first end over a portion of the gift box, then folds the second end over the gift box and secures the second end to a double-sided first adhesive strip disposed proximal to a first edge on the first end. The user then folds and secures the left and right sides of the sheet with double-sided second adhesive strips to encase the gift box therein. |
| US08387344B2 |
Split crimper for heat sealing packaging material
A split crimper for use in a crimping assembly for engaging and heat sealing overlapping layers of a packaging material includes a first crimper portion having a crimping surface and a second crimper portion that is secured to the first crimper portion to form a crimper. Portions of the first and second crimper portions cooperate to define an interior cavity, and a heating element is disposed completely within the interior cavity. |
| US08387343B2 |
Medicine dispensing system and medicine dispensing device
There is provided a medicine dispensing system configured such that a medicine dispensing device includes a sub unit having a function to dispense medicine that is connected to a medicine dispensing device that includes a main unit having a function of packing medicines. There is also provided a medicine dispensing device that can be appropriately integrated with such a medicine dispensing system. The medicine dispensing system includes, in some embodiments a main unit, a sub unit and a transfer device connecting the main unit and the sub unit. The medicine dispensing system transfers the medicine dispensed in the sub unit to the main unit by means of a transfer device and dispenses the medicine at a medicine packing part together with the medicine dispensed from a main storage part in the main unit. |
| US08387342B2 |
Picking line and method for inserting products into a packaging container
The invention relates to a picking line for inserting products into a packaging container, having a conveyor belt for the delivery and the transport of products in a transport direction, and at least one picker equipped with a position image processing system for determining the position of the products on the conveyor belt. A quality image processing system is disposed in the transport direction upstream of the at least one picker for checking the products passing the quality image processing system on the conveyor belt in the transport direction for predetermined quality features, and for associating quality information to be transmitted to a picker adjacent downstream of the quality image processing system in the transport direction, serving as a control command for grasping or not grasping the products. |
| US08387339B2 |
Adjustable wall support system and method
An adjustable support system and method for supporting for an operable partition includes an adjustable length overhead truss. The adjustable length overhead truss is supported at opposite ends by first and second vertical supports. A track is coupled to the adjustable length overhead truss, and a plurality of wall panels are coupled to the track. The plurality of wall panels are movable from a folded storage position to a deployed use position to form a wall under the adjustable length overhead truss. |
| US08387338B1 |
Method of making concrete facade logs and siding for a building
A method of making siding for attachment to a frame of a building. The siding has the appearance of antique hewn wood logs, and the siding includes modular lengthwise sections and corner modular sections of reinforced concrete façade logs. |
| US08387336B2 |
Water-resistive barrier, exterior wall or roof assembly, and method of applying the barrier
A method of assembling an exterior wall or roof structure of a building with a water-resistive barrier includes covering a surface of an inner sheathing member of a wall or roof structure with a series of partially overlapping courses of water-resistive sheet material. Each overlapping section of the courses of water-resistive sheet material is bonded together with a continuous strip of adhesive to form an air-tight seam. The strip of adhesive is carried integrally on the water-resistive sheet material thereby eliminating a need for separately applying construction tape to seal the seams. A water-resistive barrier and assembly of an exterior wall or roof assembly of a building is also provided. |
| US08387333B2 |
Structural support device with web brace
A structural support device for supporting a joist relative to a support, wherein the joist has a web and a bottom, may include a hanger assembly having a seat configured for resting the bottom of the joist thereon, a side portion extending therefrom, and a securing portion extending from the side portion for securing the device to the support, and a web brace assembly operably extending from the hanger assembly at a junction and configured for articulation between a pre-adjusted position and an adjusted position to adjustably engage and align with the web of the joist. A method of making and using are also provided. |
| US08387332B2 |
Structure of modular frame for partitioning wall
A modular frame structure (1) for a wall made of glass or other pane material includes: a lower side or base (2) suitable to receive and lock an edge portion of a pane, an upper side or cross member (4) suitable to receive and lock an edge portion of a pane, one or more posts (6) suitable to receive and lock a portion of a pane, connecting means (8), suitable to guarantee a connection between posts (6) and lower (2) and upper (4) sides, in which: posts (6) comprise a reinforcing bar (9) suitable to confer stiffness to frame structure (1), connecting means (8) comprise a first undercut coupling seat (27) obtained on lower side (2), a second undercut coupling seat (28) obtained on upper side (4), first coupling portion (29) being insertable in first undercut (27), second coupling portion (30) being insertable in second undercut (28). |
| US08387328B2 |
Device for connecting prefabricated concrete sections
A device is provided for joining pre-cast concrete sections, the device including a cable loop, wherein the cable sections forming bent portions of the cable loop have elements for keeping the cable sections in a bent-over position, the elements are cable cores which lie within the cable sections of the cable loop and which are plastically deformable. |
| US08387327B2 |
Mechanical locking system for floor panels
Floor panels (1, 1′) are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system consisting of a flexible locking element 15 in a locking groove 14 which during a horizontal motion is displaced vertically. |
| US08387326B2 |
Insulating siding system
An insulating siding system contains two components: a sheathing panel and a siding panel. The sheathing panel contains slots or grooves, while the siding panel contains connectors that fit into the slots or grooves. The siding panels are fit or attached to the sheathing panel without the need for fasteners, such as nails or staples, to penetrate the siding panel, creating a uniform exterior. |
| US08387325B2 |
Insulated siding apparatus
An insulated siding member and a method of fabricating an insulating siding member is described. The siding member may include a siding panel, an insulation member and a backing layer. The siding panel may have a cavity that may serve as a molding receptacle to allow the insulating material to be molded directly into the cavity of the remainder of the siding panel. The cavity may also allow for the insulation layer to be applied directly to the panel, whereby there may be no need for an additional adhesive layer to attach the insulation member with the siding panel. Thus, the backing layer may be attached directly to the insulation member. The siding member may have a configuration that may also allow the siding member to be easily engaged with or be interlocked with another siding member to provide for better and more uniform insulation. |
| US08387317B2 |
Systems and support assemblies for restraining elevated deck components
A system for restraining relative lateral and/or vertical movement between adjacent support tiles of an elevated building surface assembly. The system is usable with a support structure including a plurality of support pedestals that are disposed in spaced-apart relation on a fixed surface and that are disposed beneath corner portions of surface tiles to vertically support and elevate the tiles above the fixed surface. The system includes stability members that may be inserted into predetermined gaps between adjacent surface tiles so as to be fit between adjacent surface tiles to restrict lateral and/or vertical movement of the tiles. Fasteners may be placed through apertures in inner portions of the stability members into the top surface of the support pedestals to further secure the stability members to the support pedestals. |
| US08387312B1 |
Platform arrangement
A removable platform for covering bowling alley lanes to provide a flat surface above the lanes suitable for a variety of other activities. |
| US08387306B2 |
Method of monitoring and controlling termites with heat-treated wood
In a method of monitoring and/or controlling termite populations in an area accessible to the termites a wood that has been heat-treated to a temperature of greater than about 150 degrees C. (302 degrees F.) is located in the area and monitored. A toxic bait may also be located in the area. In another method, a toxic bait that contains a toxicant and wood that has been heat-treated to a temperature of at least about 150 degrees C. (302 degrees F.) may be located in the area. |
| US08387305B2 |
Rodent management system having a housing with an entry opening
A rodent management station includes a housing having a base and a lid together at least in part defining an interior space. The housing has an entry opening and an internal partition structure configured to partition the interior space of the housing into a bait chamber having an entryway spaced from the entry opening. A pathway is defined at least in part by the partition structure and extends away from the at least one entry opening to the entryway of the bait chamber. The partition structure has at least one through-opening therein other than at the bait chamber entryway to provide open communication between the pathway and the bait chamber other than at the bait chamber entryway. The at least one through-opening is sized substantially smaller than the housing entry opening and the bait chamber entryway to inhibit rodents against entering the bait chamber at the at least one through-opening. |
| US08387297B2 |
Quick connect/disconnect recoil pad
Applicants have disclosed a quick connect/disconnect recoil pad for the butt-end of a shoulder-mounted firearm. The recoil pad can be installed and removed without tools or implements, to swap in another recoil pad. Applicants' preferred embodiment comprises: an interchangeable recoil pad assembly having a recoil pad; and a spring-loaded latching means, attached to the rear or butt-end of a gun stock for connecting the recoil pad assembly onto the stock and for later quickly disconnecting the pad assembly, if desired, via a release button housed in the stock. |
| US08387294B2 |
Handgun identification light
The handgun identification light is a device attachable to a handgun, the device illuminating the handgun with flashing blue and red lights to provide advanced real-time early warning to police officers who encounter a fellow off-duty plainclothes or undercover officer during their response to the commission of a crime. The device has an on-off switch connected to a battery and flashing LED's disposed along opposing sides of the device. The device includes a tilt switch, grip switch, or gun motion sensor that detects when a user draws the weapon. By activation of the flashing red and blue light device on his weapon, an off-duty plainclothes or undercover police officer who draws the weapon becomes readily identifiable by other officers in proximity as a fellow law officer, thus avoiding misidentification and tragically resultant friendly fire incidents. |
| US08387287B2 |
Protective cover for a bicycle cleat
A protective cover for a bicyclist cleated shoe includes a thin flexible body member arranged in a generally cylindrical shape having a hollow interior and an engagement area disposed at the interior of the body member configured to receive and retain a cleat extending from the bicyclist shoe such that the cleat is covered by the engagement area and/or the body member, where the body member is configured to be disposed on the shoe in a position of engagement in which the cleat is received and retained at the engagement area and a position of disengagement where the body member remains secured to the shoe while the cleat is free from contact with the engagement area and is exposed for attachment to a pedal of the bicycle. |
| US08387285B2 |
Footwear with sole force distribution and sense enhancement
According to the present invention there is provided a sports shoe (10) having an upper part (12) configured to receive the foot (14) of a wearer and a sole arrangement (16) which is inclined so as to reduce in height in a forwards direction, wherein the sole arrangement (16) includes a rigid portion (40) and a compressible portion (28) where the rigid portion (40) is thinner than the compressible portion (28) and, in use, is provided between the compressible portion (28) and the foot (14) of the wearer, wherein further the rigid portion (40), in use, is provided beneath the heel (22), lateral aspect of the mid foot, the fifth metatarsal bone (52) and the fifth metatarsal joint (34) of the foot (14) of the wearer. |
| US08387278B2 |
Sole for footwear
A sole (12) for an item of footwear such as a shoe (10) includes a heel part (18) and a forefoot part (16), the forefoot part (16) including a rocker region (20). The rocker region (20) has a length extending transversely across the sole (12) and a width extending along the sole (12). The sole (12) is arranged so that in use during a gait cycle in which the sole (12) contacts a substantially planar support surface (38), a region of contact between the sole (12) and the support surface (38) moves across the width of the rocker region (20). |
| US08387275B2 |
Method for drying sludge
A method for drying sludge comprising the following steps: (a) Dry dehydrated sludge to obtain a carrier for drying sludge (6); (b) Transport the carrier for drying sludge (6) and dehydrated sludge to be dried (1) to a stirring and mixing apparatus (2) for stirring and mixing and thereby obtain mixed sludge; (c) Transport the mixed sludge (3) to a drying apparatus (4) for drying; (d) Repeat steps (b) and (c); characterized in that in said step (d) a portion of the mixed sludge (3) obtained from the stirring and mixing apparatus (2) which is in an amount determined by amount of sludge carrier (6) required for drying is extracted and transported to the drying apparatus (4) for drying and the rest of the mixed sludge is discharged as final product (7). |
| US08387272B2 |
Clogging detecting system for dryer
The present invention discloses a clogging detecting system for a dryer which can display a clogging degree or state of an air passage to the user through a remote controlling device. The clogging detecting system for the dryer includes the dryer for judging the clogging degree of the air passage, and sending the clogging degree to a remote controlling device, and the remote controlling device for receiving the clogging degree from the dryer, and displaying the clogging degree through a display unit. |
| US08387271B2 |
Hair dryer
A hair dryer apparatus and method for use in hair care. The apparatus preferably includes a therapeutic housing having at least one near infrared emitting diode, a nozzle, and a housing. Further, disposed within the apparatus may be a circuit board, which is in electronic communication with at least three control buttons, a microprocessor, a liquid crystal display, and a voltage regulator. |
| US08387270B2 |
System and method for spray drying a liquid
Described herein are devices and techniques for spray drying a fluid to produce a dried powder. Assemblies include a spray drying head attachable to a gas supplier and a liquid sample, such as a standard unit of blood product. The spray drying head can be adapted to provide an aerosolized flow of liquid sample exposed to a drying gas. The assembly also includes a drying chamber adapted to separate the aerosolized flow of liquid sample into a dried powder and humid air. The assembly can be disposable, provided in a sterilized kit and having simplified attachments allowing quick connect and disconnect from the gas and liquid sample. Separation of the powder from the humid air exiting the drying chamber occurs within a filtered collection bag. In some embodiments, one or more of the drying chamber and collection bag are formed form a thin-walled, collapsible material. |
| US08387269B2 |
Spray dried human plasma
The technology relates to spray dried plasma and methods of making the same. The method includes providing plasma to a spray drying apparatus, spray drying the plasma, at the spray drying apparatus, to form physiologically active plasma powder, the spray drying apparatus configured utilizing one or more parameters, and storing the physiologically active plasma powder. |
| US08387268B2 |
Dryer and foreign material removing apparatus thereof
A dryer and a foreign material removing apparatus thereof are provided. The foreign material removing apparatus includes a case; a first filter housed in the case; and a second filter disposed downstream from the first filter based on a direction of air flow in the case, the first filter and the second filter performing a relative motion with respect to each other. |
| US08387266B2 |
Device for measuring a body part of a living being
A body limb measurement device (10) comprising a track (12), a cart (14), and a laser source (16) fixedly attached to the cart. The cart is capable of linearly moving along the track. The device can further include a vertical support (18) having a pivot (20), and the track can comprise a pivot receiver (22), wherein the pivot receiver (22) is rotatably attached to the pivot (20). The track (12) can include units of length measurement (24) embedded therein. The cart (14) can include a reference point (26) to correspond to the units of length measurement, to track the cart's position on the track (12). A method of measuring a body part (28) comprising the steps of moving the cart (14) along the track (12) to measure the distance between a first edge (32) and a second edge (34) of the body part (28). |
| US08387263B1 |
Easy use utensil
A utensil in the form of a spoon having a spill resistant bowl. The bowl may have an angled tip at the front portion of the bowl and a secondary reservoir at or near the rear portion of the bowl. In some embodiments, portions of the inner surface of the bowl may be textured near the perimeter edge along the sides of the bowl. The utensil may also have an ergonomic handle having a depression on the top and concavity on the bottom with a flattened portion at the rear end. The flattened portion allows the utensil to stand upright. |
| US08387260B2 |
Pistachio nut opener
A handheld pistachio nut opener that is box-shaped comprising an upper and lower piece, each with one protrusion that are oriented vertically but aligned horizontally and inserted into an open or partially open pistachio nut, and through manual compression of the apparatus between the thumb and forefinger, the protrusions travelling in opposite directions through translational vertical motion while remaining engaged with the pistachio nut shell halves until the shell halves break apart into two disjoined pieces revealing the edible portion inside, the arcs of the protrusions protecting the edible portion from being damaged. |
| US08387259B2 |
Dual headed razor blade system
A dual headed razor blade system includes a first razor blade head assembly and a second razor blade head assembly. The razor blade head assemblies include an elongated in-line main handle having opposed upper and lower ends and opposed front and rear faces supports; additionally, the system includes a shorter in-line arm having opposed upper and lower ends, and opposed front and rear faces. The first razor blade head assembly is mounted to upper end of a first blade support, which in turn is mounted at the upper end and on the front face of the elongated main in-line handle; the second razor blade head assembly is mounted to the upper end of a second blade support, which in turn is mounted at the upper end of the shorter elongated in-line arm, while the lower end of the in-line arm is pivoted at a concave recess. |
| US08387257B2 |
Vehicle interior panel and method to manufacture
A vehicle interior panel is provided that includes an interior panel substrate defining an aperture for a light source to extend through the interior panel substrate, a lens attached to the interior panel substrate, wherein the lens extends over at least a portion of the aperture for the light source, an at least partially transparent material that extends over the lens, and a plurality of positioning holes defined by the interior panel substrate, such that at least a portion of the plurality of positioning holes are configured to correspond to a plurality of positioning pins of an interior panel mold. |
| US08387256B2 |
Method for improved scaling of filters
Method of reducing performance variability of membrane scaling devices. Scaling device performance uncertainty is reduced, thereby reducing the scaling safety factor, by specifying a narrow range or subset of the set of all qualified manufactured membranes for installation into scaling devices. In certain embodiments, the scalability factor is reduced by determining where within the performance distribution a particular membrane lies, and adjusting the scaling factor accordingly. |
| US08387255B2 |
Fine pattern mold
The fine pattern mold that includes a roll, a buffer tube with inner peripheral surface is in contact with an outer peripheral surface of the roll, and a stamper tube in which its inner peripheral surface is in contact with an outer peripheral surface of the buffer tube and a fine concave/convex pattern is formed on its outer peripheral surface, wherein the buffer tube has a larger coefficient of linear expansion and a smaller elastic modulus than those of the stamper tube. |
| US08387254B2 |
Method of rebuilding solenoids for automatic transmissions
A method of rebuilding a solenoid for use in automatic transmissions is disclosed. In one embodiment, an improvement over the original equipment design allows for increased durability of the solenoid. In another embodiment, a lower cost method is disclosed for reusing an expensive component. In either case, various components within the solenoid are reused, reconditioned or replaced. A preferred process for disassembling the solenoid is also disclosed. |
| US08387248B2 |
Heat exchanger
A heat exchanger is provided in which heat exchanger shells are formed by electro forming about a mandrel. The shells are attached and joined to provide a heat exchanger module. As the shells are not press formed problems with respect to material elongation to achieve deep grooves in the shells are potentially avoided and shells can be created with more desirable thickness to achieve more efficient heat exchange. Furthermore, reduced shell thickness will also reduce weight and therefore improve the acceptability of heat exchangers in particular applications such as those associated with aerospace and automotive sports. |
| US08387246B2 |
Shaft member for fluid lubrication bearing apparatuses and a method for producing the same
A low-cost shaft member for hydrodynamic bearing apparatuses restores the pressure balance in a thrust bearing gap formed on both axial sides of the flange portion in an early stage. A shaft material integrally having a shaft portion and a flange portion with a through-hole between both end faces of the flange portion is formed in a common forging step. As a result, the through-hole is formed to open to an inner diameter side of the bearing gaps avoiding the thrust bearing gaps formed on both end faces of the flange portion of the shaft member as a finished product. |
| US08387243B2 |
Method for manufacturing multistage exhaust turbocharger
A method of manufacturing a multistage exhaust turbocharger having a high-pressure stage turbocharger and a low-pressure stage turbocharger includes providing a high-pressure turbine housing of the high-pressure stage turbocharger, the high-pressure turbine housing being integrally formed with the exhaust manifold by casting or welding, assembling constituent parts of the high-pressure stage turbocharger using the high-pressure turbine housing as a reference, after the assembling constituent parts of the high-pressure stage turbocharger, attaching the low-pressure stage turbocharger to the high-pressure stage turbocharger by attaching a low-pressure turbine housing to a low-pressure turbine connection flange, and after the attaching the low-pressure stage turbocharger, attaching an air supply channel to connect between a supply air outlet of the low-pressure stage turbocharger and a supply air inlet of the high-pressure stage turbocharger, wherein the low-pressure turbocharger is disposed below the high-pressure turbocharger. |
| US08387241B2 |
Method of fabricating wiring board
A method of fabricating a wiring board including at least one conductor layer and at least one resin insulating layer, the method including a wiring groove forming step of forming a wiring groove in the resin insulating layer by irradiating a surface of the resin insulating layer with a laser, and a wiring layer forming step of forming the conductor layer such that at least a portion of the conductor layer is embedded in the wiring groove to form a wiring layer in the wiring groove. |
| US08387239B2 |
Manufacturing method of embedded circuit substrate
An embedded circuit substrate comprising: a core structure having a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other; a first patterned conductive layer disposed on the first surface and embedded in the core structure; a second patterned conductive layer disposed on the second surface and embedded in the core structure; and a plurality of conductive blocks disposed in the core structure for conducting the first patterned conductive layer and the second patterned conductive layer is provided. Furthermore, a manufacturing method of an embedded circuit substrate is also provided. |
| US08387236B2 |
Apparatus for mounting conductive balls
A head that moves across a surface of a mask, which includes a plurality of apertures for disposing conductive balls on a substrate, whereby, while the head is rotating about an axis that is perpendicular to the mask, the axis moves across the surface of the mask. The head includes a gatherer that gathers the conductive balls into a circular area that is smaller than the surface of the mask and disposed around a center of rotation of the head, the conductive balls being gathered from an area around the circular area when the head rotates. |
| US08387234B2 |
Multi-turn coil device
A multi-turn coil device comprising a flexible circuit board and a plurality of serially electrically coupled coils coupled to both sides of the flexible circuit board. The coils are formed such that when the circuit board is folded in an accordion manner, the coils are substantially aligned and have the same direction of current flow. The coils are serially coupled sequentially from front to back and back to front wherein the coupling of the coils is through a plated through hole in the flexible circuit board. |
| US08387232B2 |
Method of manufacturing antenna formed with case
There is provided an antenna integrally formed with a case and a method of manufacturing the same. An antenna integrally formed with a case according to an aspect of the invention includes: a case unit formed of a dielectric material; a radiator including a radiation unit tightly fixed to an outer surface of the case unit and terminal units each extending from an end portion of the radiation unit, passing through the case unit, and exposed on the inside of the case unit; and contact pins provided on a board disposed adjacent to the case unit and electrically connected to the individual terminal units. |
| US08387231B2 |
Stator coil production method including in-slot portion shaping step and coil-end portion shaping step
A stator coil producing method and a stator coil production machine. The stator coil is used in an electric rotating machine. The stator coil production machine includes a rotary retainer which rotates to move shaping press pairs along a looped path. The rotary retainer has retaining holes through which the shaping press pairs are retained. The retaining holes are shaped to permit the shaping press pairs to move along the looped path, thereby pressing or shaping portions of a conductor wire into in-slot portions to be disposed in slots of a stator core and coil-end portions each of which is to extend between adjacent two of the in-slot portions outside the slots. The method comprises an in-slot portion shaping step of shaping portions of the insulator-coated conductor wire into the in-slot portions and a coil-end portion shaping step of shaping portions of the insulator-coated conductor wire into the coil-end portions. |
| US08387230B2 |
Method of making an ultrasonic transducer system
In a method of making an ultrasonic transducer, a piezoelectric ceramic material that is at least partially covered by metal plating is provided. A plurality of substantially parallel cuts is formed in the plating so as to define a plurality of transducer elements and a ground element. A plurality of conductors is provided. An end portion of each conductor is operatively connected, such as by ultrasonic bonding, to a respective one of the transducer elements or the ground element. Next, a backing material is bonded to the plurality of transducer elements and the ground element such that the end portion of each conductor is sandwiched between the backing material and a respective one of the transducer elements or the ground element. The conductors are bent to allow for operative connection to an ultrasound system. The operative connection between the conductors and the transducer elements is maintained during the bending step. |
| US08387222B2 |
Pen barrel assembling device
A pen barrel assembling device includes a base with a first frame and a second frame fixed to the top of two ends of the base. A movable rod extends through the first frame and fixed to the first frame by a first fixing bolt. An end part is connected to the first end of the movable rod and the outer section is positioned in the end part. A push rod extends through the second frame and is movable toward the movable rod by pivoting a lever. The metal section is connected to the free end of the push rod. Multiple blocks are pivotably or slidably connected to the base and each block includes an engaging recess which is removably engaged with the movable rod. |
| US08387219B2 |
Casket ornament attachment mechanism
A casket comprises a casket shell, a casket lid closeable on the shell, a mounting plate mounted to the shell, the plate including at least one keyhole groove therein, a medallion casket ornament having a rear side, the ornament including at least one magnet mounted on the rear side, and a magnetic adapter plate having a rear side, the adapter plate including at least one fastener with a head thereon mounted on the rear side, the adapter plate removably secured to the shell by inserting the head of the fastener in the keyhole groove in the mounting plate and seating the head of the fastener in the keyhole groove, the casket ornament removably secured to the shell by positioning the at least one magnet of the ornament on the adapter plate. |
| US08387216B1 |
Tie wrap for bundling objects
A twist tie device having an elongated piece of shape-retaining deformable material. A cover covers the shape-retaining deformable material along the length of the elongated piece. The cover has a bond between the elongated piece and the cover. The bond between the cover and the elongated piece is along the entire interior surface of the cover. An outer cover may be bonded to the cover. The outer cover may have a gripping surface and a non-gripping surface. The gripping surface will provide more grip for the twist tie device when it is wrapped around itself and the gripping surface will provide more grip when it is wrapped around objects. A non-gripping surface being generally smoother than the gripping surface is suitable for containing indicia. |
| US08387208B2 |
Cleaning computer peripherals
A keyboard cleaning apparatus includes: a conduit configured to receive an airflow; and a brush attached to the conduit and including a plurality of bristles arranged in a pattern proximate at least one orifice in the brush, the pattern of bristles defining a passageway in fluid communication with the orifice, the passageway including at least two open ends configured to receive at least a portion of a key of a keyboard. |
| US08387207B2 |
Surface treating head
A surface treating head includes a main body, a suction cavity in the main body including first and second suction channels, each of which is bounded on one side by a working edge, an air duct interposed between the first and second suction channels for conveying air towards the working edges, a brush unit and a drive mechanism for moving the brush unit between a stowed position in which the air duct is open to the atmosphere and a deployed position in which the air duct is closed. |
| US08387205B2 |
Blower apparatus with releasable mount and direction control
A blower assembly is releasably attached to a lawnmower frame by quick-release mounting system comprising a down-facing blade and up-facing receiving pocket that frictionally stably vertically engage. The blower assembly includes a blower unit, a flexible hose with an outlet for emitting a directed air flow, adjustment structure for adjustably supporting the flexible hose in different vertical and horizontal positions and orientations, and powered actuators operably connected to the adjustment structure to selectively bend the flexible hose. A powered control automatically controls the actuators for automatically operating the actuators to move the outlet to a selected position and orientation. Related methods include removing and reconnecting the blower assembly to different lawnmowers and lawn care wheeled devices. |
| US08387198B2 |
Paint brush extension fastener
A paintbrush holder assembly affixes a standard paintbrush to a holder that in turn engages an extension rod. The holder includes a hollow tubular shaft with a circular cross section that includes a first end, a middle portion and a second end. Three or more semi-circular fasteners attach to the middle portion of the tubular shaft via flex points. One fastener includes a lock pin to engage a locking shaft. The locking shaft has an “L” shaped lock track having a sufficient size and dimension to fit about the tubular shaft and capable of sliding from the second end to a point proximate the first end. The extension rod connects to the holder via male threads which secure to female threads located at the second end of the tubular shaft. |
| US08387194B2 |
Apparatus for reducing buildup of deposits in semiconductor processing equipment
An apparatus for cleaning a gas tube includes an actuator and a plunger head attached to the actuator. The actuator is configured to reciprocate the plunger head along a longitudinal axis of the gas tube between a retracted position and an extended position and to rotate the plunger head from a first angular position to a second angular position. A method of cleaning a gas tube includes positioning a plunger head including a plurality of longitudinally extending tines in the gas tube, rotating the plunger head relative to a longitudinal axis of the gas tube, and scraping deposits from an interior surface of the gas tube using longitudinally extending edges of the tines. |
| US08387190B2 |
Method of detecting an off-balance condition of a clothes load in a washing machine
An off-balance detection method comprises a plurality of off-balance detection schemes that utilize wash basket speed to detect an off-balance load condition at speed ranges that span the entire spin cycle and include speeds corresponding to natural frequencies of a mass comprising a wash tub and a wash basket. The schemes can be used alone or in combination with one or more of the other schemes. The off-balance detection method can further comprise a power limiting method to prevent motor overload when an off-balance condition is present. |
| US08387189B2 |
Method for washing of washer
A novel washing method of a washing machine that is capable of performing a washing operation of laundry with reduced washing water consumption and low power consumption and, in addition, sterilizing the laundry is disclosed. The washing method includes supplying washing water containing detergent into a tub to perform a high-concentration washing process, and, before or after the high-concentration washing process, supplying steam into a drum. |
| US08387188B2 |
Multi-purpose tool
A multipurpose tool (10) can comprise a shovel (14) on a top center area, a hatchet or ax (18) on a lower area adjacent to the shovel, a hammer (16) on an opposing side of the hatchet or ax on the lower area, and a handle (24) protruding from the lower area; The shovel, hatchet or ax, and hammer are integrated as a single piece. The handle can also be integrated with the shovel, ax or hatchet, and hammer as a single or unitary piece. An accessory handle or tool 20 can selectively attach to the multipurpose tool 10. Additional embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08387184B2 |
Auto contour handle apparatus
A patient support apparatus includes a frame and seat, thigh, and head sections coupled to the frame. A linkage is coupled to the head, seat, and thigh sections. The linkage has a first mode of operation in which the seat and thigh sections remain substantially parallel to each other as the head section is raised and lowered and the linkage has a second mode of operation in which the thigh section tilts relative to the seat section as the head section is raised and lowered. A handle is movable relative to the head section between a first position in which the linkage is in the first mode of operation and a second position in which the linkage is in the second mode of operation. |
| US08387183B2 |
Mitigation of brake failure
A method and system for mitigations brake failure in a medical device. The method and system includes a motion system for at least one movable load. Each movable load has a drive, a controller for the drive, and a brake. The controller is adapted to monitor positional parameters of the drive or electrical parameters of the brake or a combination of both. The method involves the step of monitoring the parameters and evaluating the parameters to detect a brake failure of the brake. |
| US08387181B1 |
Sheet system with handles
A sheet system having a sheet with a top and bottom surface, a first, second, third and fourth side, the second side being opposite the first side, the sides are adapted to hug sides of a mattress, an elastic band lines a portion of bottom edges of each side, a first handle on the top surface of the sheet near the first side and near the third side, a second handle on the top surface of the sheet near the first side and about halfway between the third side and fourth side, a third handle on the top surface of the sheet near the second side and near the third side, and a fourth handle on the top surface of the sheet near the second side and about halfway between the third side and fourth side. |
| US08387179B2 |
Siderail mechanism
A person-support apparatus comprises a frame, a first siderail, and a second siderail. The frame includes a first support section and a second support section. The first support section is configured to pivot between a first support position and a second support position with respect to the second support section. The first siderail is coupled to the first support section and configured to move therewith. The second siderail is coupled to the frame and is configured to move along the frame between a first position and a second position. The second siderail is configured to be positioned adjacent to the second support section in the first position, and adjacent to the first support section and below the first siderail in the second position. |
| US08387178B2 |
Playard top rail and latch mechanism
A juvenile product includes a frame with a rail, the rail including first and second rail sections, a latch assembly coupling the first and second rail sections and configured to reside in a latched state for an in-use orientation of the rail, and an elastic bias element coupled to the first rail section or the second rail section and configured to be under tension in or near the in-use orientation such that the elastic bias element drives the rail away from the in-use orientation when the rail is near the in-use orientation with the latch assembly not in the latched state. |
| US08387174B1 |
Swimming pool skimmer creature raft rescue device
A device for rescuing, retrieving and setting free native wildlife caught in a swimming pool skimmer comprises a body and a retrieval apparatus. The body has a base and an elevated surface of lesser external dimensions than a flange of the base. The body has an enclosed volume captured between the base and the elevated surface. The retrieval apparatus is associated with a portion of the body. |
| US08387172B2 |
Water flow controlling system and method
A system for controlling the duration and volume of a flow of water in a flush of a Toilet, which includes a buoyant flush valve which is non-automated in user actuation thereof to a raised open position. The system includes a converting element, for converting the buoyant flush valve to a non-buoyant flush valve which is non-automated in user actuation thereof to a raised open position. A programming element enables programming of a controlling time, for controlling the duration and volume of flow of water in a flush of a toilet. A controlling element is connected to the programming element and the non-buoyant flush valve, for retaining the non-buoyant flush valve in a raised open position upon non-automated user actuation thereof to the raised open position, and for releasing the non-buoyant flush valve from the raised open position for closing the non-buoyant flush valve, within the controlling time. |
| US08387169B2 |
Baseball practice helmet
A baseball training helmet having a helmet portion for protecting a player during practice and an integral face portion that extends away from the helmet portion to form a front aperture that provides a restricted field of view for a player wearing the training helmet. |
| US08387166B2 |
Convertible bag and vest combination
A combination of a vest and a versatile, adaptable bag allows a person to comfortably carry articles, even while physically active. The vest is contoured to the shape of a person's body, limiting the jostling of the vest and integrally attached bag as the person moves. One advantageous feature of the convertible bag is that its size can adapt to the desired contents: the upper portion of the bag acts either as a flap for the lower portion, or as a vertical extension of the lower portion when the bag contents are more voluminous. Further, the vest portion sits high on the chest of the person wearing the vest. This increases comfort to the person by distributing the weight better, and reduces sweating, particularly during physical activity such as riding a bicycle. |
| US08387165B1 |
Disposable and reusable germ screen
Screen covers, devices, systems and methods of using the covers. The screen cover can have dome shaped front configuration and capital A rear side configuration that can be formed from a pliable material having a waterproof coated surface. The screen cover can have a closed front side, closed top, closed sides and an elastic band across the back having openings above and below the band. The screen cover can be disposable or reusable. Methods of using and removing the screen cover include removing the cover without contaminating the other hand that removes the cover. |
| US08387163B2 |
Flexible face mask apparatus
A flexible face mask is provided for protecting the face from outdoor elements. The face mask comprises a nose shield portion configured to cover the user's nose, a pair of cheek shield portions configured to cover the sides of the user's face, and a pair of ear strap portions configured to cover and receive the user's ears and eyewear. A reinforcing strip on the skin-facing side of the nose shield allows the nose shield to better conform to the user's nose. The face mask is configured for attachment to both eye glasses and goggles. For eyeglasses, a pair of small “C” - shaped cuts in the nose shield are configured to receive the nose pads of the eyeglasses. For goggles or eyeglasses, a set of hook and loop patches are utilized, wherein one patch is affixed to the eyewear's bridge and the mating patch is affixed to the nose shield. |
| US08393010B2 |
Near-field scanning optical microscope
A near-field scanning optical microscope is disclosed. The microscope includes a lighting component, a probe and an ellipsoidal mirror. The lighting component emits a light. The probe is disposed on one side of a testing sample, and the light is focused around a probe tip to draw the near-field light out. The ellipsoidal mirror has a first focal point and a second focal point, and the first focal point and the probe tip are disposed at the corresponding positions, and the near-field light drawn out from the probe tip is scattered from the first focal point inside the ellipsoidal mirror, and reflected and passed through the second focal point. |
| US08393004B2 |
Systems and methods for protecting information used by mobile devices
The present disclosure generally pertains to systems and methods for protecting information for use by mobile devices. In one exemplary embodiment, a system comprises a mobile device, a base, and a memory device. The mobile device has a user input interface, and the base is secured to a user. The mobile device is configured to receive data manually input via the user input interface by the user and to wirelessly transmit the data. The mobile device is further configured to wirelessly transmit a retrieval request in response to a user input. The memory device is mounted on the base. The memory device is configured to receive and store the data wirelessly transmitted by the mobile device. The memory device is further configured to retrieve the data and to wirelessly transmit the data to the mobile device in response to the retrieval request. |
| US08393002B1 |
Method and system for testing an entity
A system and method is provided wherein, in one aspect, a number of different elements are presented to a user. The user is instructed to pick the elements that are the most related to one another. If the user selects the two most related elements, the user is presented with access to additional information, such as a screen for creating an email account. The system and method are intended to allow access to information by humans, but not remote computers emulating a human. |
| US08392999B2 |
Apparatus and methods for assessing and maintaining security of a computerized system under development
A security assessment method for assessing security of a computerized system under development, the system including assets and being managed in accordance with an organization policy, the method including providing an organizational computerized system development policy; classifying said assets in said system under development, thereby to generate asset classification information; and automated creation of at least one security requirement based on said asset classification information and said organization policy. |
| US08392992B1 |
Method and apparatus for preventing sensitive data leakage due to input focus misappropriation
A method and apparatus for preventing sensitive data leakage due to input focus misappropriation is described. In one embodiment, a method for restricting a change in an input focus to protect sensitive data comprising identifying a visual representation component used to receive sensitive data, wherein the virtual representation component having an input focus of a computer and preventing a change in the input focus from the visual representation component. |
| US08392990B2 |
Mitigating excessive operations attacks in a wireless communication network
A technique for mitigating excessive operations attacks in a wireless communication network includes receiving message requests from stations, detecting an excessive operation attack, checking if a received request is a first request or a retry request, and ignoring any first requests. The method can also include saving information about the first request, and wherein if checking reveals that the received request is a retry request, the method further confirms that the retry request and the saved information about the first request meet matching conditions, whereupon the retry request is further processed as normal. Since attacks rarely utilize retry requests, this technique effectively ignores attack messages. |
| US08392987B2 |
Web page safety judgment system
A user terminal displays on its display unit a target web page including an authentication information input field into which input authentication information is inputted by the user terminal. The user terminal judges first to third validity levels for a plurality of login history information by referring to a login information list and a service group information. The user terminal selects a corresponding process from a plurality of predetermined processes for the input authentication information based on existence or absence of the login history information in the first or second validity level and on a result of checking the input authentication information with login information in the login history information in the first to third validity levels. The user terminal executes the corresponding process. |
| US08392986B1 |
Evaluating text-based access strings
A computer-implemented method may include presenting to multiple users a test text string each time an access text string is presented to the users, receiving input related to the test text string from the users and using by an evaluation processor the input related to the test text string to validate the test text string as a candidate to use as a future access text string. |
| US08392985B2 |
Security management in system with secure memory secrets
In some embodiments a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) manages a first flag that identifies whether a secure environment has ever been established. A chipset manages a second flag that identifies that there might have been secrets in memory and a reset or power failure occurred. At least one processor and/or the chipset lock, maintain a lock, and/or unlock a memory in response to the second flag. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08392984B2 |
Provisioning/configuration systems for VPN to VPN bridging for IP video conferencing
Internet Protocol (IP) video conferencing bridging provisioning/configuration systems receive a service order associated with a customer, where the service order requests enrollment of the customer in a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to VPN bridging network service for IP video conferencing. The provisioning/configuration systems orchestrate, based on the service order, configuration of multiple network nodes in a network that provides the VPN to VPN bridging network service for IP video conferencing to the customer to enable IP video conferencing calls to be made from the customer via the network to another customer on a different VPN. |
| US08392974B2 |
Information processing system and processing method thereof
When a plurality of information processing apparatuses that have an authentication function cooperate to execute a job, user authentication information is transmitted from a cooperative information source processing apparatus to a destination cooperative information processing apparatus that execute the cooperative job. A user account is created at the destination cooperative information processing apparatus based on the transmitted authentication information. When the cooperative information source processing apparatus notifies execution of a cooperative job to the destination cooperative information processing apparatus, authentication information that is authenticated at the cooperative information source processing apparatus is transmitted to the destination cooperative information processing apparatus. The destination cooperative information processing apparatus creates a user account based on the authentication information, and executes the cooperative job using the created user account. |
| US08392967B2 |
Image forming system, image forming apparatus, and method for creating, maintaining, and applying authorization information
A user-manager server device includes: registration information on a local group including a domain user separately from a domain group managed by a directory server device, and authorization information on the domain group, the domain user, and/or the local group. When a logged-in user belongs to the local group, an authorization processing unit transmits the authorization information on the local group to a multifunction periphery (MFP) as the authorization information corresponding to the logged-in user. When the logged-in user does not belong to the local group, the authorization processing unit transmits the authorization information on one of the domain group and the domain user to the MFP as the authorization information corresponding to the logged-in user. |
| US08392959B2 |
Portable media asset
A method, apparatus, and system are disclosed that provide for a secure download of a media asset from a video-on-demand server responsive to a user request. The media asset may be routed to a recorder device for storage purposes. The media asset may also be streamed to a set top box for (simultaneous) playback on, e.g., a television. The media asset may subsequently be played from the storage on one or more media players. |
| US08392955B2 |
Apparatus and method for representing a sequence of content as projections for reconstructing the sequence at full or lower quality
A content presentation system comprising content playing apparatus and content providing apparatus operative to receive an array of digitally represented numbers, representing content as P points in D-dimensional space, to generate therefrom a plurality of projections on at least one sub-space of a vector space comprising a span of at least one D-dimensional vector, and to provide the plurality of projections to the content playing apparatus, the content playing apparatus being operative to reconstruct the array of digitally represented numbers from the plurality of projections and to expose human users to content accordingly. |
| US08392951B2 |
Information providing apparatus and method thereof
A mobile terminal including a communication unit configured to communicate with an external server associated with the mobile terminal; a display unit configured to display a video; and a controller configured to receive a detection request signal requesting an object in the video be detected, to detect the object in the video upon receiving the detection request signal, to retrieve history timing information about when the object was detected in the displayed video, and to display the history timing information on the display unit. |
| US08392949B2 |
Electronic-program-guide retrieval method and electronic-program-guide retrieval system
An EPG retrieval system includes a data server, a client, and a dictionary database. The data server stores program information of an EPG. The client includes an access unit for accessing the data server, and an input unit for inputting a retrieval keyword for performing retrieval on the program information. The dictionary database stores retrieval keywords and keywords relevant to the retrieval keywords. The client inputs an arbitrary keyword, and extracts keywords relevant to the input keyword. The extracted keywords and the input keyword are used to perform retrieval on the program information. |
| US08392948B2 |
Interactive program guide systems and processes
Interactive program guide systems and related processes are provided which can automatically tune a television, or program a VCR, based on program selections made from program schedule information displayed on a television or other suitable video monitor. The interactive program guide is preferably implemented using a microprocessor-controlled set-top box that is coupled to the viewer's television set. The set-top box receives program schedule information and software from a headend telecasting center. Preferably, program schedule information for the current day and at least six subsequent days is stored in a memory within the set-top box. The interactive program guide provides a display mode for allowing the viewer to apply a restrictive search selection criterion and a nonrestrictive sort attribute to the program schedule information. |
| US08392945B2 |
System and method for controlling alternative access to video events associated with video broadcast services
A video services receiver system and related operating methods provide alternative event information to a customer who is subject to a blackout for a desired event. If the blacked out content is available via a different event on a different service, the system will find the other event and provide an appropriate notification to the customer. A method of providing access to events by a customer associated with a video services receiver begins by identifying a first event on a first service, the first event corresponding to a first presentation of content. The method continues by retrieving an alternative event identifier for the first event and using the alternative event identifier to search for a second event on a second service, the second event corresponding to a second presentation of the content. Thereafter, the method generates an alternative event notification for the customer. The alternative event notification indicates availability of the second event for access by the customer. |
| US08392936B2 |
Complex event processing (CEP) adapters for CEP systems for receiving objects from a source and outputing objects to a sink
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are disclosed for implementing adapters for event processing systems. A particular system includes an input adapter configured to store event objects received from a source at an input queue. The system also includes a query engine configured to remove event objects from the input queue, to perform a query with respect to the removed event objects to generate result objects, and to insert result objects into an output queue. The system also includes an output adapter configured to remove result objects from the output queue and to transmit the result objects to a sink. |
| US08392933B2 |
Open gateway framework
An open gateway framework addresses the need for efficient modularization, extension, and adaptation of device functionality, such as gateway or set top box functionally. The open gateway framework facilitates rapid third party application development on customer electronic devices, particularly for telecommunications service providers. The open gateway framework provides: portability between different devices; rapid development based on extended platform features with a custom Application Programming Interface (API); and deployment with little or no impact on device base software. |
| US08392931B2 |
Data transfer protocol for data replication between multiple pairs of storage controllers on a SAN fabric
A method for communicating between devices in a network includes creating an I/O tunnel between a first device and a second device through the network. The I/O tunnel is associated with I/O resources in both the first device and the second device, and wherein at least one of the I/O resources comprises a buffer resource. A data transfer operation may be sent between the first device and the second device by consuming at least some of the I/O resources associated with the I/O tunnel. A plurality of commands or a plurality of responses can be aggregated into a single buffer resource. Upon completion of the data transfer operation, the I/O resources that are consumed are automatically renewed. |
| US08392930B2 |
Resource contention log navigation with thread view and resource view pivoting via user selections
A contention log contains data for contentions that occur during execution of a multi-threaded application, such as a timestamp of the contention, contention length, contending thread identity, contending thread call stack, and contended-for resource identity. After execution of the application ends, contention analysis data generated from the contention log shows developers information such as total number of contentions for particular resource(s), total number of contentions encountered by thread(s), a list of resources that were most contended for, a list of threads that were most contending, a plot of the number of contentions per time interval during execution of the application, and so on. A developer may pivot between details about threads and details about resources to explore relationships between thread(s) and resource(s) involved in contention(s). Other information may also be displayed, such as call stacks, program source code, and process thread ownership, for example. |
| US08392927B2 |
System and method for determining a partition of a consumer's resource access demands between a plurality of different classes of service
According to one embodiment, a method comprises receiving into a planning tool a representative workload for a consumer. The method further comprises determining, by the planning tool, an allocation of demand of the consumer for each of a plurality of different classes of service (COSs). According to one embodiment, a method comprises defining a plurality of classes of service (COSs) for use by a scheduler in allocating capacity of a resource pool to a consumer, wherein the COSs each specify a different priority for accessing the capacity of the resource pool. The method further comprises evaluating, by a planning tool, a representative workload of the consumer, and determining, by the planning tool, a partitioning of resource demands of the representative workload between the plurality of COSs. |
| US08392926B2 |
Scheduling heterogeneous partitioned resources with sharing constraints
A system and method that provides an automated solution to obtaining quality scheduling for users of computing resources. The system, implemented in an enterprise software test center, collects information from test-shop personnel about test machine features and availability, test jobs, and tester preferences and constraints. The system reformulates this testing information as a system of constraints. An optimizing scheduling engine computes efficient schedules whereby all the jobs are feasibly scheduled while satisfying the users' time preferences to the greatest extent possible. The method and system achieves fairness: if all preferences can not be meet, it is attempted to evenly distribute violations of preferences across the users. The test scheduling is generated according to a first application of a greedy algorithm that finds an initial feasible assignment of jobs. The second is a local search algorithm that improves the initial greedy solution. |
| US08392924B2 |
Custom scheduling and control of a multifunction printer
A method and system for implementing custom scheduling policies including making alterations to internal task scheduling policies or firmware operating within the MFP throughout the lifetime of the MFP. Internal task scheduling policy alterations can be made either remotely or on-site at a customer location. Custom scheduling policies can be implemented for different periods of time. The MFP includes a task run-time controller to receive and process the internal task scheduling policy alterations. The task run-time controller includes a task tuner, which may implement the internal task scheduling policy alterations responsive to usage characteristics of the MFP. |
| US08392922B2 |
Marshaling results of nested tasks
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for marshaling results of nested tasks. Unwrap methods are used to reduce the level of task nesting and insure that appropriate results are marshaled between tasks. A proxy task is used to represent the aggregate asynchronous operation of a wrapping task and a wrapped task. The proxy task has a completion state that is at least indicative of the completion state of the aggregate asynchronous operation. The completion state of the aggregate asynchronous operation is determined and set from one or more of the completion state of the wrapping task and the wrapped task. The completion state of the proxy task can be conveyed to calling logic to indicate the completion state of the aggregate asynchronous operation to the calling logic. |
| US08392914B2 |
Method and apparatus for recognizing processes in GOS by VMM
The present invention provides a method apparatus for recognizing a process in a guest operation system by a virtual machine monitor, and the method comprises: step 101 of recording by the virtual machine monitor the page table information of a process to be executed upon process switching of the guest operating system; step 102 of acquiring by the virtual machine monitor the identification information of the currently-executed process; step 103 of storing by the virtual machine monitor the correspondence between the previously recorded page table information of the process to be executed and the identification information of the currently-executed process. By storing the correspondence between the process page directory base address and the identification information of the process, the method and apparatus of the present invention enable the virtual machine monitor to locate and monitor processes executed in the GOS, thus promoting the management granularity on GOS of the virtual machine monitor to a process level. |
| US08392909B2 |
Synchronizing vital product data for computer processor subsystems
A computer processor subsystem, e.g. called a “target”, in response to receiving an update to vital product data of the system from a source computer processor subsystem, examines the update to detect the vital product data of the target computer processor subsystem stored by the source computer processor subsystem; and, in response to the detected vital product data being incorrect, the target computer processor subsystem forwards its correct vital product data to the source computer processor subsystem having the incorrect vital product data. A computer processor subsystem is the authoritative reference for its vital product data. |
| US08392901B2 |
Replacing a ROM image in a computer's ROM
In at least some embodiments, a method comprises receiving a first command from a source external to a computer to provide a copy of a read only memory (ROM) image from the computer to the external source. The method also comprises receiving a second command from the source external to the computer to replace the computer's ROM image and, without re-booting the computer, replacing the computer's ROM image with a ROM image received from the external source. |
| US08392900B1 |
Methods and systems for barrier reduction in parallel processing systems
Systems and methods according to the present invention provide techniques which modify programs having barrier statements. Dependence relations between statements, and enforcement associations between the barrier statements and the dependence relations, in the program are identified. The dependence relations are classified as being either enforceable by point-to-point synchronization or not enforceable by point-to-point synchronization. A subset of the barrier statements, which will enforce those dependence relations that are unenforceable by point-to-point synchronization, are determined. Other(s) of the barrier statements are replaced with a point-to-point synchronization routine. |
| US08392896B2 |
Software test bed generation
A system and method is described for generating a test bed that is useful in developing, testing and/or supporting the use of software, such as software used for managing IT processes and/or monitoring equipment in an enterprise network. The system and method operates by processing a manifest to generate an instance space model of a computer network, wherein the manifest refers to a type space model of a computer network and includes an encoding that conveys parameters that are used to inflate the type space model of the computer network into the instance space model of the computer network. The type space model may comprise an object-relational directed graph that describes a plurality of potential directed graph instances and the instance space model may comprise one of the plurality of potential directed graph instances. |
| US08392888B2 |
Method of translating n to n instructions employing an enhanced extended translation facility
A method, article, and system for providing an effective implementation of assembler language translate-n-to-n instructions implemented on 21, 31, and 64-bit architectures, while maintaining backward compatibility with existing systems. The enhanced Extended-Translation Facility 2 (ETF2) instruction set introduces a new operand in an unused field (M3) that facilitates a change in the original instruction format and its intended function. With the ETF2-Enhancement Facility installed, a value of zeros in the M3 field indicates that instruction operation is to continue as originally defined. When a nonzero value is coded in the M3 field a new function is carried out. The assembler accommodates the changes by making the new M3 field optional when coding the instructions. If the M3 field is not coded, the assembler defaults to providing zeros in the M3 field (as found in the original instruction format), and backward compatible operation is provided. |
| US08392885B2 |
Low privilege debugging pipeline
A low privilege debug pipeline publisher advertises a debugging pipeline. Instead of having a client to which a debugger on the server has been attached interrogate the server for debugging information, the client requests information from the server. Control is returned to the server which can refuse to provide the requested information to the client. A debuggee server executes client code being debugged in an isolated context so that pausing the code at a breakpoint does not block the server. The server can apply transforms to compiled code to make the code cooperate with debugging services so that a privileged component to inspect the debuggee code is not needed. |
| US08392878B2 |
In-place structure in a graphical program
System and method for including an in-place structure in a graphical program. Input including the structure in the graphical program may be received, where the structure is displayed in the graphical program. At least one graphical program node may be associated with the structure. The at least one graphical program node may be executable to manipulate at least one of a first element or a second element. The structure may specify that data memory of the first element is useable as the data memory of the second element in the graphical program. The structure may be usable by a development environment to reduce memory usage of the graphical program during execution. |
| US08392874B2 |
Creating an executable configuration
A process for creating an executable configuration that can be run on a target system by selecting from a library a number of abstracted software components that are independent of the target system that implement individual functions of the target system and that are provided with a specified command interface and a specified interface to data channels, the selected software components that are independent of the target system are interconnected via their data channels for the realization of the automatization task to a model which is automatically transformed by a model transformation into a net list of nodes, attributes and edges, whereby the software components form the nodes, the initial parameters, the attributes and the data channels the edges of the net list, the software components that are independent of the target system are transformed into software components dependent on the target system, the software components that are dependent on the target system are instantiated at the target system and parameterized by their command interface and from the net list, the processing sequence of the software components is identified for processing in correct information flow. |
| US08392872B2 |
Pseudo translation within integrated development environment
A computer program is pseudo translated within an integrated development environment (IDE). Pseudo translation is performed, within an IDE, on one or more first resource files for the computer program, to generate corresponding one or more second resource files, without modifying one or more source code files for the computer program. The computer program is debugged and/or run, within the IDE, using the second resource files, such that the second resource files remain hidden from a user of the IDE, and without changing the user interface language of the computerized system. |
| US08392861B2 |
Method of semiconductor integrated circuit device using library for estimating timing/area to place cells
To considerably reduce the cell layout change after timing optimization to reduce the term of layout design by estimating timing and an area after the timing optimization. During the period of initial layout processing using a net list, a timing constraint, a floor plan, a layout library, a timing library, etc., a library for estimating timing/area for estimating the timing and area after the timing optimization is created in advance and whether the timing constraint can be met is estimated. A cell in a path that hardly meets the timing constraint is placed in proximity and conversely, a cell that easily meets the timing constraint is placed at a distance. At this time, an area increase is also estimated so that wiring congestion does not occur. |
| US08392858B2 |
Detection and removal of hazards during optimization of logic circuits
A method of generating a hazard-free representation of a logic circuit that can leverage the powerful and mature synchronous-circuit CAD synthesis tools. In a representative embodiment of the method, an initial representation of a specified asynchronous logic circuit is synthesized using one of such CAD tools. The initial representation is then analyzed to identify hazardous transitions and modified, e.g., by iteratively inserting additional logic aimed at preventing the identified hazardous transitions from producing glitches, until a hazard-free representation of the specified asynchronous logic circuit is produced. |
| US08392857B2 |
Automated circuit design process for generation of stability constraints for generically defined electronic system with feedback
A method is described that involves accepting a description of an electronic system having feedback. The method further includes expressing a real root of the electronic system's transfer function and expressing a real part of a complex root of the electronic system's transfer function. The method further includes expressing a time parameter as a maximum of the real root and the real part of a complex root. The method further involves expressing a settling time of the electronic system with the time parameter and using the settling time to automatically generate a design for the electronic system. |
| US08392856B2 |
Semiconductor device and layout design method for the same
A semiconductor device includes: a plurality of line features including at least one real feature which includes a gate electrode portion, and at least one dummy feature. Two of multiple ones of the dummy feature, and at least one of the line features interposed between the two dummy features and including the at least one real feature form parallel running line features which are evenly spaced. The parallel running line features have an identical width, and line end portions of the parallel running line features are substantially flush. Line end portion uniformization dummy features are formed on extensions of the line end portions of the parallel running line features. The line end portion uniformization dummy features include a plurality of linear features each having a same width as each of the line features and spaced at intervals equal to an interval between each adjacent pair of the line features. |
| US08392853B2 |
Transparent interface used to independently manipulate and interrogate N-dimensional focus objects in virtual and real visualization systems
Method, system, and software for performing independent operations with and upon N-Dimensional spatial and temporal objects displayed in virtual and real visualization systems. The technique applies user selected points or regions of interest in the visualization system to identify corresponding points or regions on transparent focus objects which describe the visualized objects, and which intersect the user's topological line of sight. The resulting set of points or regions are then used to extract information from the focus objects, which provide additional information on object content or location of related file systems. The transparent interface provides intrinsic operations which can be applied directly to the focus objects, or coupling mechanisms to external user applications, to process, manipulate or transform focus objects in either the transparent interface or the visualization system. |
| US08392850B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method, and program for handling images
Disclosed herein is an information processing apparatus which may include list acquire means, thumbnail image acquire means, display means, selection means, and image acquire means. |
| US08392846B2 |
Virtual pin pad for fuel payment systems
A method and system for displaying a virtual PIN pad in varying locations on a touch screen in order to prevent fraud or the interception of personal identification numbers. |
| US08392843B2 |
System and method for drag-and-drop workflow editing in a multifunction peripheral (MFP)
The invention relates to a drag-and-drop workflow editor associated with a multifunction peripheral (MFP). In one embodiment, a drag-and-drop workflow allows a user to define multiple source, transformation, and destination processes in a graphical, drag-and-drop workflow editor. In some embodiments, the source processes may be dynamic processes that are executed at different times. |
| US08392840B2 |
Large sets of data
This document describes tools that enable a computing device to retrieve large data in smaller blocks. The tools also allow the computing device to receive and display data that does not include display formatting information through the use of templates. |
| US08392839B2 |
System and method for using partial teleportation or relocation in virtual worlds
The processing burden of rendering incident to a full teleportation operation in a virtual universe is avoided while contact with particular teleport destinations is promoted by provision of a partial teleportation facility such as a virtual kiosk as an object within a virtual universe (which may be sponsored or owned by users wishing to promote particular teleportation destinations) at which an avatar can view previously rendered images of portions of one or more teleportation destinations. Limited interaction and simulated travel within the teleportation destination can be achieved through image manipulation and updates rather than rendering. An avatar image can be displayed in connection with both the object and the teleport destination with, preferably control of only one avatar image while the other is displayed using a low resolution image. Full teleportation can be initiated automatically upon detection of a particular condition such as duration of an avatar presence at the location of the partial teleportation facility object. When full teleportation is initiated, the processing intensive rendering can be supplemented from image data representing the portion or the teleportation destination, thus hiding rendering delays and simulating seamless, instantaneous response to the full teleportation operation. |
| US08392837B2 |
Browser supporting multiple users
A method and apparatus for a browser supporting multiple user identifying states. A plurality of browser instances are initiated on a client. One of a plurality of user identifying states is selected for each of the plurality of browser instances. Each selected user identifying state is used in a distinct session between the browser and a server. |
| US08392832B2 |
Display placeholders for rich media content
Methods, systems, devices, and programming structures for providing temporary substitute placeholder content for rich media content in data sets downloaded to wireless communications devices. The substitute placeholder content may be logically related to the rich content for which it substitutes, and may be displayed in the same relative size and location as the rich content ultimately to be displayed. |
| US08392831B2 |
Handheld electronic device and method for performing optimized spell checking during text entry by providing a sequentially ordered series of spell-check algorithms
A handheld electronic device includes a reduced QWERTY keyboard and is enabled with a disambiguation routine that is operable to disambiguate text input. In addition to identifying and outputting representations of language objects that are stored in the memory and that correspond with a text input, the device is able to perform a spell check routine during input of a text entry. The spell check routine subjects a text entry to a sequentially ordered series of spell-check algorithms and ceases subjecting the text entry to further spell-check algorithms upon identification of a predetermined quantity of spell-check language objects. |
| US08392830B2 |
Method and system for code editing
A method and system for code editing using copy and paste operations are provided. The method includes copying a section of text (111) from a source program text (101) and providing source context information (120) for the copied section of text (111). The method further includes pasting (140) the copied section of text (111) to a destination location, including: defining the pasted text (140) as separate from the destination program text (102); carrying out editing (132) to conform variables of the pasted text to the variables of the destination program text (102); and then integrating (133) the pasted text into the destination program text (102). The step of carrying out editing to conform variables of the pasted text (140) to the variables of the destination program text (102) references the source context information (120) and context information (104) of the destination program text (102). Providing source context information (120) may either provide a rich schema storable in association with the copied text (111), providing metadata information relating to the variables of the copied text, or may provide a link to the source program code context information (103). |
| US08392828B2 |
Open theme builder and API
Methods and system for customizing a webpage include generating a schematic representation of the webpage wherein the webpage includes a plurality of section elements that are customizable. The schematic representation identifies a plurality of schematic section elements corresponding to the plurality of section elements of the webpage. The schematic representation is rendered for the webpage and provides visual navigation through various section elements of the webpage. A schematic section element is selected from the schematic representation, for customizing. The selection of the schematic section element triggers rendering of respective one or more navigation links, which provide tools or options for customization. Changes representing customization to one or more attributes associated with the selected schematic section element are received and the attributes are updated at the schematic representation in real-time. The changes are cascaded to the corresponding section elements of the webpage in substantial real-time based on user interaction. |
| US08392826B2 |
Methods and systems for use in maintaining media data quality upon conversion to a different data format
The present embodiments provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for use in maintaining data quality upon conversion to a different data format. Some embodiments provide methods that receive media data in a first format, initiate a first conversion of the media data at the first format to a second converted format, identify parameters dictating the conversion to the second converted format, record the parameters, and distribute the recorded parameters to remote systems such that the parameters at least in part control the remote systems during a conversion of the media data to the second converted format. |
| US08392823B1 |
Systems and methods for detecting hidden text and hidden links
A system detects hidden elements in a document that includes a group of elements. The system may identify each of the elements in the document and create a structural representation of the document. The structural representation may provide an interconnection of the group of elements in the document. The system may also determine whether one or more elements of the group of elements are hidden based at least in part on locations or other attributes or properties of the one or more elements in the structural representation. |
| US08392820B2 |
Method of establishing a plain text document from a HTML document
The present invention provides a method of establishing a plain text document from a HTML document. The method including the steps of (A) acquiring a HTML document defined by HTML elements, each composed of tags and content between the tags; (B) pre-processing the HTML document by omitting some of the tags (including the content between those tags), whereby the rest of the HTML document comprises at least one target tag (including content between the target tags); (C) using a data structure to store the remaining tags of the pre-processed HTML document; (D) grouping the remaining tags (including the content between the remaining tags) stored in the data structure of the pre-processed HTML document into at least one target group according to the target tag(s); and (E) identifying the target group(s) most related to a title of the HTML document by comparing correlation(s) between the target group(s) and the title, and establishing a plain text document having the content of the identified target group. |
| US08392816B2 |
Page classifier engine
Embodiments of the present invention relate to classifying pages of an electronic document, such as a scanned book page. OCR software is applied to the contents of the electronic document, revealing semantic information about the content of the electronic document. Software-based features are applied to the semantic information to determine the type of page the electronic document is. Page types may include table of contents (TOC), table of figures (TOF), bibliography, index, or other types of pages commonly found in a book, magazine, or other publication. Once determined, the determined page type is stored and used by other software engines. |
| US08392813B2 |
Redundant file system
Some embodiments of the invention shift the responsibility for creating parity and error correction blocks from the hardware or software RAID units or modules to the computer system's file system, allowing the file system's existing mechanisms of write atomicity to be used to help ensure consistency of the on-disk information throughout all or increasing portions of the information saving and/or updating cycle. |
| US08392808B2 |
Rate matching for a wireless communications system
Apparatuses and methods are provided for generating a plurality of redundancy versions using various rate matching algorithms. In some embodiments, a rate matcher is provided that allocates systematic and parity bits to the redundancy versions in a manner that allows all of these bits to be transmitted in at least one redundancy version. In some embodiments, the rate matcher uses a first puncturing algorithm to generate both a first redundancy version and a third redundancy version, but allocates a different proportion of the systematic bits to these redundancy versions. In these embodiments, the second redundancy version may include only bits that were not transmitted in the first redundancy version. |
| US08392803B2 |
Method and device for identifying video data losses
To identify data losses in a video sequence transmitted between a server and at least one client over a communication network, the sequence comprising a plurality of video data containers coded using scalable video coding employing a predetermined number of hierarchical levels, the video data containers being transmitted over the network via a series of data transport packets: a process (311) is carried out of detecting losses and of locating the video data affected by those losses, without decoding the video data, by combining information coming from transport packets and information coming from video data container headers.Application for improving decoding on receiving a video sequence. |
| US08392802B2 |
Spectral content based decoding and frequency offset estimation
Methods and systems to identify a codeword associated with samples of a signal from spectral content of the samples, and to estimate a frequency offset from the spectral contents. The samples may correspond to a physical layer header of a data frame. Modulation may be removed from the samples in accordance with each of a plurality of modulation sequences, each sequence associated with a corresponding codeword. Power levels in spectral contents of the modulation-removed samples are examined to identify a peak power level indicative of a match between a modulation sequence and the samples. The corresponding codeword is identified as being associated with the header, and transmission parameters associated with the identified codeword are used to decode a corresponding frame. An estimated frequency offset may be determined from a frequency associated with the peak power level. |
| US08392801B2 |
Decoding device and coding system
A decoding device is provided, which can minimize the number of coded data addition requests by the decoding device, reduce processing time to prevent delay, and minimize frame rate reduction. The decoding device performs data reproduction by performing error correction of data of a predicted image using coded data which is an error correction code generated based on original data. The decoding device includes a coded bit receiving part, a preset value generating/updating part, a decoding part that performs a decoding process based on a preset value or a predicted value, and coded bits, and a bit addition request determining part that determines whether or not there is a need to request additional coded bits from decoding process results from the decoder. When it is determined to perform a decoding process with additional coded data, the preset value generating/updating part updates the preset value based on previous decoding process results. |
| US08392792B2 |
Method for encoding low density parity check codes using result of checking previously specified parity bits
There is provided to a method for encoding an LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) code using the result of checking a previously specified parity, including the steps of: forming a parity bit check matrix having a dual diagonal structure consisting of (N-K) rows for check nodes and (N-K) columns on the basis of the H matrix; calculating the values of all the parity bits by inserting a given binary value in sub-blocks, with the parity bit check matrix formed on the H matrix; if the values of the parity bits are incorrect, checking the parity bit corresponding to the sub-block located in the last part of the H matrix; searching the parity bit parts where the parity bit check result is represented as “1”; performing an XOR operation in sub-blocks on the parity bit part obtained through a simultaneous equation between the parity bits of the searched parity bit parts and the parity bit parts; and determining the value of the parity bit satisfying the condition that the value obtained by multiplying the H matrix by a code word vector. |
| US08392790B1 |
Systems and methods for optimizing a product code structure
Systems and methods for jointly optimizing various parameters of an error-correction code (e.g., a product code or other multi-dimensional code) are provided. In certain embodiments, joint optimization of coverage assignments, configuration assignments, rate assignments, and/or user data length assignments of an error-correction code is performed so as to achieve desired error-protection performance at minimized implementation complexity. In certain embodiments, coverage assignments of an error-correction code are optimized to achieve a desired performance level with minimized implementation complexity. |
| US08392789B2 |
Method and system for decoding low density parity check codes
A method for decoding a codeword in a data stream encoded according to a low density parity check (LDPC) code having an m×j parity check matrix H by initializing variable nodes with soft values based on symbols in the codeword, wherein a graph representation of H includes m check nodes and j variable nodes, and wherein a check node m provides a row value estimate to a variable node j and a variable node j provides a column value estimate to a check node m if H(m,j) contains a 1, computing row value estimates for each check node, wherein amplitudes of only a subset of column value estimates provided to the check node are computed, computing soft values for each variable node based on the computed row value estimates, determining whether the codeword is decoded based on the soft values, and terminating decoding when the codeword is decoded. |
| US08392788B2 |
Transport network system with transparent transport and method of operation thereof
A method of manufacture a transport network system includes: receiving input data having an input encoding; generating encoded data, having a transcode encoding, from the input data; generating an error correction redundancy for the encoded data; and sending an output frame, having the encoded data and the error correction redundancy, for increasing a net coding gain of the output frame based on the transcode encoding and the error correction redundancy. |
| US08392787B2 |
Selective merge and partial reuse LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) code construction for limited number of layers Belief Propagation (BP) decoding
Selective merge and partial reuse LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) code construction for limited number of layers Belief Propagation (BP) decoding. Multiple LDPC matrices may be generated from a base code, such that multiple/distinct LDPC coded signals may be encoded and/or decoded within a singular communication device. Generally speaking, a first LDPC matrix is modified in accordance with one or more operations thereby generating a second LDPC matrix, and the second LDPC matrix is employed in accordance with encoding an information bit thereby generating an LDPC coded signal (alternatively performed using an LDPC generator matrix corresponding to the LDPC matrix) and/or decoding processing of an LDPC coded signal thereby generating an estimate of an information bit encoded therein. The operations performed on the first LDPC matrix may be any one of, or combination of, selectively merging, deleting, partially re-using one or more sub-matrix rows, and/or partitioning sub-matrix rows. |
| US08392786B2 |
LDPC coding systems for 60 GHz millimeter wave based physical layer extension
LDPC coding systems for 60 GHz millimeter wave based physical layer extension. LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) encoding in cooperation with sub-carrier interleaving, in the context of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), and appropriate symbol mapping is performed in accordance with transmit processing as may be performed within a communication device. In a receiving communication device, receive processing may be performed on a received signal based on the type of LDPC, sub-carrier interleaving, and symbol mapping thereof. The LDPC code employed in accordance with such LDPC encoding may have a partial-tree like structure. In addition, appropriate manipulation of the bits assigned to respective sub-carriers may be performed to ensure that the bits emplaced in the MSB (Most Significant Bit) location of various symbols has some desired diversity (e.g., from different codewords, from appropriately different locations within a given codeword, etc.). |
| US08392785B2 |
Method and system for a transmitting antenna selection failure recovery mode
Aspects of a method and system for a transmitting antenna selection failure recover mode are presented. Aspects of the system may include a transmitting mobile terminal that enables selection of a sequence of protocol data units (PDU), for example a sequence of sounding frames, which may be transmitted during an antenna selection procedure. During transmission of the selected PDU sequence, the transmitting mobile terminal may receive an antenna selection failure indication frame. The transmitting mobile terminal may enable retransmission of at least one previously transmitted PDU in the PDU sequence based on the failure indication. Transmission of subsequent PDUs in the PDU sequence may resume after the retransmission. Alternatively, upon receipt of the failure indication frame the transmitting mobile terminal may restart the selected frame sequence from the beginning, or may select a subsequent PDU frame sequence. |
| US08392781B2 |
Hybrid-ARQ (HARQ) with scrambler
Embodiments of the invention provide a system and method of hybrid automatic repeat-request (HARQ) processing. A viterbi decoder is coupled to and follows a descrambler. After the signal has been de-scrambled, it can be stored in a memory in case it needs to be recombined with another packet. This means that the log-likelihood ratios LLRs for each transmitted bit are stored in memory using a finite number of bits (for example, between 4 and 12 bits). If the packet that is currently being processed contains retransmitted information, then the de-scrambled output stored from a previous packet containing the same information can be loaded and combined with the current packet. |
| US08392780B2 |
Communication control method
Methods of controlling peers of a relay ARQ protocol are described. It is proposed to provide a predetermined marking in the payload section of messages of the relay ARQ protocol, such that relay peers along the relay connections can extract information from the payload section. |
| US08392772B2 |
On-chip memory testing
An integrated circuit is described that has a substrate with a memory array with dedicated support hardware formed on the substrate. An access wrapper circuit is coupled to address and data lines of the memory array and to control lines of the dedicated support hardware. The wrapper circuit is configured to provide an access port to the memory array. A test controller is formed on the substrate and coupled in parallel with the access wrapper circuit to the address and data lines of the memory array and to the control lines of the dedicated support hardware, wherein the test controller is operable to perform a test of the memory array by manipulating control signals to the support hardware in addition to those required to write data patterns into the memory array and to read the contents of the memory array. |
| US08392771B2 |
Memory devices and methods for managing error regions
Memory devices and methods are described that include a stack of memory dies and a logic die. Method and devices described include those that provide for repartitioning the stack of memory dies and storing the new partitions in a memory map. Repartitioning in selected configurations allows portions of memory to be removed from use without affecting the rest of the memory device. Additional devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08392764B2 |
Methods and systems for identifying and configuring networked devices
Auto-detection and configuring systems and methods for interconnected, position dependent control devices are disclosed. Embedded identification and configuration keys are associated with each of the control devices in a network, such that specific connection nodes for each controller may be determined by electronically reading the identification as the control devices are installed. Hardware and software compatibility issues may be detected and resolved, including self configuring of the control devices with the proper software where possible. Otherwise, error conditions are signaled. |
| US08392762B2 |
System and method for detection and prevention of flash corruption
A non-volatile memory device comprises an application code sector of sufficient size to store a first copy of an application code and a second copy of the application code; and a boot sector having a boot loader code embodied therein. The boot loader code is configured to cause a processor to check the integrity of both the first and second copies of the application code; if the first copy is corrupted, overwrite the first copy of the application code with the second copy; and if the second copy is corrupted, overwrite the second copy of the application code with the first copy. |
| US08392760B2 |
Diagnosing abnormalities without application-specific knowledge
Methods, articles, and systems for determining a probable cause of a component's abnormal behavior are described. To determine the probable cause, a computing device computes, for one or more pairs of components having dependency relationships, a likelihood that behavior of one component of a pair is impacting behavior of the other component of the pair. This computing is based on joint historical behavior of the pair of components. The computing device then determines that one of a plurality of components is a probable cause of the abnormal behavior based on the computed likelihoods. |
| US08392757B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing load instructions in a microprocessor having an enhanced instruction decoder and an enhanced load store unit
A method and microprocessor are described for efficiently executing load instructions out-of-order (speculatively). The microprocessor includes an enhanced load store unit (LSU) and an enhanced instruction decoder. The enhanced LSU receives a plurality of out-of-order value addresses, and sends a resync signal to the enhanced instruction decoder when an execution error associated with a particular load instruction occurs. The enhanced instruction decoder stores a specific address associated with the particular load instruction, and increments a counter value that indicates how many times the resync signal was sent by the resync predictor. When the counter value reaches a predetermined threshold, subsequent load instructions from the specific address are executed in order (non-speculatively). When a future execution of the particular load instruction indicates that the probability of an execution error has been reduced, the counter value is decremented, facilitating newer load instructions associated with the same address to again be executed speculatively. |
| US08392752B2 |
Selective recovery and aggregation technique for two storage apparatuses of a raid
A disk array provided with a RAID group in a Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (RAID) configuration with redundancy of two, the disk array includes, a data recovery technique selecting unit to select a technique for recovering data from a first failed disk to be recovered first, the technique being selected from among a plurality of techniques based on the type of storage apparatus included in the RAID group, and I/O conditions with respect to the RAID group, when failures occur in two storage apparatus in the RAID group, a data recovering unit to split recovered data from the first failed storage apparatus and writing the recovered data to two recovery storage apparatus in accordance with the data recovery technique selected by the data recovery technique selecting unit, and an aggregating unit to aggregate the recovered data onto one of the two recovery storage apparatus. |
| US08392744B2 |
Clock distribution apparatus, systems, and methods
Apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed that operate to adjust power received by a clock distribution network at least partially based on operating conditions of an integrated circuit. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08392743B2 |
Master clock generation unit for satellite navigation systems
A master clock generation unit for satellite navigation systems, comprises a plurality of frequency inputs for receiving a respective atomic clock signal, each having a first or a second reference frequency, and a number of frequency converters each having an input connected to one of the frequency inputs and an output. Each of the frequency converters receives an offset frequency (selected according to the first and second reference frequency at the assigned frequency input) from at least one frequency synthesizer, for providing the same intermediate frequency at each of the converter outputs. A switching matrix is connected to each of the converter outputs for selecting one of the intermediate frequencies as a primary clock provided at a first matrix output, and another of the intermediate frequencies as a secondary clock provided at a second matrix output. A frequency generator having an input connected to the first matrix output and connected to a number of frequency outputs of the master clock generation unit, derives an output reference frequency from the primary clock, and provides it at the frequency outputs. A phase meter having a first meter input connected to the first matrix output and a second meter input connected to the second matrix output, determines a phase difference between the primary and the secondary clock for detecting abnormal behavior. |
| US08392740B2 |
Synchronization of converters having varying group-delays in a measurement system
An analog-to-digital-converter (ADC) timing engine may simplify the use of Delta-Sigma ADCs by compensating for the group-delay of the ADC. The compensation may render the group-delay corresponding to the ADC largely transparent to the end-user of the ADC. Therefore, multiple ADCs may be easily synchronized with each other, even if they have different group-delays, and they may further be synchronized with other types of ADCs that do not have group-delays. The data from the ADCs may also be synchronized with external events. The ADC timing engine (ATE) may be programmed with a number of parameters to set proper delays taking into account not only the group-delays corresponding to the various ADC, but delays stemming from a variety of other sources. Multiple ATEs may be synchronized with each other to ensure that data acquisition by the participating ADCs is started and/or stopped at the same point in time. |
| US08392728B2 |
Reducing idle leakage power in an IC
A method to reduce idle leakage power in I/O pins of an integrated circuit using external circuitry. Initially, I/O pins on a package are subdivided into those that will also remain powered up and those that will power down during idle state. When a system enters a low power mode, a signal is sent to the external circuitry. The signal notifies the I/O pins that always remain powered up to notify the external circuitry to power down the other set of I/O pins. |
| US08392726B2 |
Protection of memory areas
A method for loading a program, contained in at least a first memory, into a second memory accessible by an execution unit, in which the program is in a cyphered form in the first memory, a circuit for controlling the access to the second memory is configured from program initialization data, instructions of the program, and at least initialization data being decyphered to be transferred into the second memory after configuration of the circuit. |
| US08392724B2 |
Information terminal, security device, data protection method, and data protection program
An information terminal that decrypts sealed data without returning program data after update to the state before update. The information terminal includes update certificate storage unit storing an update certificate for certifying update of the program data to be executed by CPU, and a selection unit which, when the CPU is to execute program data, judges whether or not digest of the post-update program data in the update certificate matches digest of the program data to be executed, and selects digest of the pre-update program data in the update certificate when it judges that they match. The CPU executes the post-update program data. The information terminal further includes a security device that stores an extend value of a program data digest when the pre-update program data is executed by the CPU according to a request from the selection unit. |
| US08392721B2 |
Method and system to electronically identify and verify an individual presenting himself for such identification and verification
A method and a system of electronically identifying and verifying an individual utilizing at least one biometric features of the individual is disclosed. The method includes the steps of activating an access apparatus with a means to capture at least one biometric feature of an individual in a secure manner using dynamic encryption, capturing the biometric feature of an individual wherein key features of biometric raw data are extracted, encrypting in a dynamic manner the biometric features, transmitting the encrypted data of the biometric feature to at least one server; and verifying the biometric features captured in the fruit step with a pre-stored biometric feature in the server. Wherein upon positive identification and verification of the individual access is given to an auxiliary means such as but not limited to access to secured doors, database, computer network and servers. |
| US08392718B2 |
Programmable controller system and aid device for control program development therefor
A programmable controller system is formed by connecting a personal computer having an aid device program module installed to serve as an aid device for development of control program to a programmable controller having password protect function. A hardware key storing a specified password code is detachably attached to the personal computer. The aid device program module checks whether or not software module with a function of certifying a hardware key exists and if it is found to exist, it is linked as a part of the aid device program module and the function of certifying the hardware key is caused to operate. |
| US08392717B2 |
Authentication method, system, server, and client
An authentication method is disclosed herein. The method includes: by a server, using a Trigger message nonce to generate a Trigger message, and sending the generated Trigger message to a client so that the client can extract the Trigger message nonce; after determining that the Trigger message nonce is valid, using the Trigger message nonce to generate a digest, and authenticating the Trigger message generated by using the Trigger message nonce; after the authentication succeeds, sending a session request to the server indicated by the Trigger message, where the session request carries a session ID. The corresponding system, server and client are disclosed herein. The present invention makes the authentication process more secure through the client and the server based on the DS or DM protocol. |
| US08392715B2 |
Method and device for identifying objects or documents
The document identification method comprises: a step of marking the document with an anti-copy mark that is identical for a plurality of documents, a step of reading an anti-copy mark, a step of generating an identification mark that can vary from one document to another and according to the reading of the anti-copy mark and a step of marking said document to form said identification mark on said document. In embodiments the method comprises, in addition, a step of printing a uniform area and the step of marking the document to form the identification mark comprises a step of emitting light with a laser in the uniform area.In embodiments the method comprises, in addition, a step of invisibly marking the identification mark on said document. |
| US08392712B1 |
System and method for provisioning a unique device credential
According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling access to a network comprises a first operation of determining one or more device characteristics of an electronic device seeking to join the network. Then, one or more unique device credentials are generated for the electronic device. The format of the unique device credentials are based on the one or more device characteristics of the electronic device. |
| US08392711B2 |
Staged establishment of secure strings of symbols
A multi-stage technique of establishing a plurality of secure strings of symbols is disclosed. In the first stage, the illustrative embodiment establishes a first-stage string of symbols with each other node. The first-stage strings are chosen from a first, small, key space, which means that they can be established more quickly than a highly secure key from a large key space. The advantage of the first-stage strings is that it enables the user to transmit secure messages more quickly than messages secured with highly secure strings. The disadvantage of the illustrative embodiment is that the first-stage strings are not as secure as strings from a larger key space. This disadvantage is mitigated, however, by the fact that the first-stage strings are only used for a short amount of time—until the second-stage strings are established in the second stage. |
| US08392709B1 |
System and method for a single request—single response protocol with mutual replay attack protection
Various embodiments of a system and method for a single request—single response protocol with mutual replay attack protection are described. Embodiments may include a system that receives multiple single request messages, each of which may include a respective nonce, timestamp, and digital signature. The system may create a record of previously received nonces that, at any given time, may include multiple message nonces received within a valid period of time prior to that given time. To validate a given single request message the system may verify the digital signature of the that message, determine that the timestamp of that message indicates a time within the valid period of time prior to the current time, and determine the nonce of the that message is not present within the record of previously received nonces. The system may send a single response message that includes the same nonce as the validated message. |
| US08392705B2 |
Information source agent systems and methods for distributed data storage and management using content signatures
Information source agent systems and methods for distributed content storage and management using content signatures that use file identicality properties are provided. A data management system is provided that includes a content engine for managing the storage of file content, a content signature generator that generates a unique content signature for a file processed by the content engine, a content signature comparator that compares content signatures and a content signature repository that stores content signatures. Information source agents are provided that include content signature generators and content signature comparators. Methods are provided for the efficient management of files using content signatures that take advantage of file identicality properties. Content signature application modules and registries exist within information source clients and centralized servers to support the content signature methods. |
| US08392703B2 |
Electronic signature verification method implemented by secret key infrastructure
An electronic signature verification method implemented by SKI infrastructure adopts a secret key infrastructure (SKI) system for registering a secret key and issuing a signature key and a verification key. After a signer has completed a signature, a signature data, a verification data and a verification key encrypted by the secret key of a signature verification unit are sent to a recipient. After the recipient has received the data, a user needs to send the verification data and the encrypted verification key to a signature verification unit if the user wants to confirm the signature on the signature data. The signature verification unit uses a secret key authorized by the SKI for the decryption to obtain the verification key and uses the verification key to verify the verification data and confirm the existence of the signature of the signature data, so as to authenticate the signature of the signature data. |
| US08392696B2 |
Modular integrated circuit with common software
A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. The spoke modules include a plurality of interface circuits each having a hardware address. A memory module stores the hub software and hub data and configuration data. The hub software includes a plurality of driver modules corresponding to the plurality of interface circuits. The processing module executes boot firmware to configure the plurality of driver modules based on the hardware address of each of the plurality of interface circuits. |
| US08392693B2 |
Fast REP STOS using grabline operations
A microprocessor includes a cache memory and a grabline instruction. The grabline instruction specifies a memory address that implicates a cache line of the memory. The grabline instruction instructs the microprocessor to initiate a zero-beat read-invalidate transaction on the bus to obtain ownership of the cache line. The microprocessor foregoes initiating the transaction on the bus when executing the grabline instruction if the microprocessor determines that a store to the cache line would cause an exception. |
| US08392691B2 |
Data management method, memory controller and memory storage apparatus
A data management method, a memory controller and a memory storage apparatus are provided. The method includes grouping physical units of a rewritable non-volatile memory module into at least a data area and a free area. The method also includes configuring logical units for mapping to the physical units of the data area and writing update data belonging to the logical pages of the logical units orderly into the physical pages of physical units gotten from the free area. The method further includes configuring root units for the logical pages, configuring an entry chain for each of the root units and building entries on the entry chains for recording update information of the updated logical pages, wherein each of the logical pages corresponds to a root unit. Accordingly, the table size for storing the update information is effectively reduced and the time for searching valid data is effectively shortened. |
| US08392690B2 |
Management method for reducing utilization rate of random access memory (RAM) used in flash memory
A management method for reducing the utilization rate of random access memory (RAM) while reading data from or writing data to the flash memory is disclosed. A physical memory set is constructed from a plurality of physical memory blocks in the flash memory. A logical set is constructed from a plurality of logical blocks wherein the data stored in the logical set are stored in the physical memory set. Further, the data stored in each of the logical blocks are stored in one number of physical memory blocks. A mapping table is constructed and includes a hash function, a logical set table, a physical memory set table, and a set status table for managing the relationship among the physical memory sets, physical memory blocks, and logical blocks while reading data from or writing data to the flash memory. Further, the management method operates and maintains the physical memory sets, the physical memory blocks, and the logical blocks at a set level so that the utilization rate of random access memory is reduced to decrease the access capacity of the random access memory while operating the physical memory blocks and the logical blocks of the flash memory. |
| US08392688B2 |
Method and apparatus for increasing an amount of memory on demand when monitoring remote mirroring performance
A method and storage system for increasing an amount of memory in a queuing area on. The storage system includes first and second storage subsystems connected to each other via a path. A primary volume in the first storage subsystem and a remote secondary volume in the second storage subsystem are mirrored and operated in the asynchronous mode. A queuing area having memory is provided in the second storage subsystem for temporarily storing data transferred to the second storage subsystem from the first storage subsystem in response to a write input/output (I/O) issued by a host to write data in the primary volume. Data temporarily stored in the memory is retrieved and stored in the remote secondary volume. An unused area of the queuing area is monitored and the memory increased if the unused area becomes less than a predetermined amount. |
| US08392687B2 |
Solid state memory formatting
The present disclosure includes methods and devices for solid state drive formatting. One device embodiment includes control circuitry coupled to a number of memory arrays, wherein each memory array has multiple physical blocks of memory cells. The memory arrays are formatted by the control circuitry that is configured to write system data to the number of memory arrays, where the system data ends at a physical block boundary; and write user data to the number of memory arrays, where the user data starts at a physical block boundary. |
| US08392685B2 |
Arrangements for managing metadata of an integrated logical unit including differing types of storage media
A file system including: a first type storage medium; a second type storage medium; and a processor providing a file system using a first area in the first type storage medium and a second area in the second type storage medium, wherein the processor manages whether metadata is permitted to be stored in each of the first area and second area, stores a first file and first metadata of the first file in the first area, which is managed to permit storing metadata, migrates the first file stored in the file system to the second area, which is managed not to permit storing metadata, and changes the first metadata stored in the first area to point to a location of the first file in the second area. |
| US08392682B2 |
Storage security using cryptographic splitting
Methods and systems for administrative management of a secure data storage network are disclosed. One system includes a secure storage appliance configured to host a plurality of volumes, each volume associated with a plurality of shares stored on a corresponding plurality of physical storage devices and having a plurality of volume management settings, wherein each volume is accessible by a group of one or more users, each user assigned an administrative access level, the volume management settings are editable by a first user from the group of one or more users associated with the volume and assigned an administrative access level sufficient to edit the volume management settings, and the volume management settings are inaccessible by a second user from outside the group of one or more users associated with the volume and assigned an administrative access level at least equal to that of the first user. |
| US08392676B2 |
Management method and management apparatus
A management method and management apparatus that can prevent deterioration of response performance of an entire system is suggested.A management method and apparatus for managing a storage apparatus to which a hierarchical pool configuration technique is applied is designed to: select a migration-candidate virtual volume(s) from among virtual volumes to which a page(s) is allocated from a pool constituted from a storage tier(s) whose number of accesses per unit time has reached a performance threshold and whose used capacity has not reached a capacity threshold; select a pool(s) from which a page(s) is allocated to the virtual volume, as a migration source pool; also select a pool(s) constituted from a storage tier whose number of accesses per unit time has not reached the performance threshold, as a migration destination pool; decide a migration candidate pair(s) by combining the migration-candidate virtual volume(s) with the migration destination pool(s); calculate response performance of the entire system before and after migration respectively; and decide a migration candidate pair which is a migration object, based on the calculation result. |
| US08392675B1 |
System and method for reduced-overhead snapshot creation
Systems and methods for reduced-overhead creation of persistent, point-in-time images (PPIs) are disclosed. The summary map is updated as needed when a block is newly freed or allocated after the latest PPI is taken. Therefore, PPI maps of previously created PPIs do not need to be scanned after PPI creation, thereby eliminating high latency disk reads and memory consumption for scanning. When a PPI is created, the active map and the latest PPI map are identical since the active map depicts the current allocation status of the blocks in the active file system. The active map only diverges from the PPI map when a block is allocated or freed in the active file system. Therefore, the active map can be used to update the status of blocks in the summary map when the status of a block diverges from its status as indicated in the latest PPI map. |
| US08392672B1 |
Identifying unallocated memory segments
A network device that includes a first memory to store packets in segments; a second memory to store pointers associated with the first memory; a third memory to store summary bits and allocation bits, where the allocation bits correspond to the segments. The network device also includes a processor to receive a request for memory resources; determine whether a pointer is stored in the second memory, where the pointer corresponds to a segment that is available to store a packet; and send the pointer when the pointer is stored in the second memory. The processor is further to perform a search to identify other pointers when the pointer is not stored in the second memory, where performing the search includes identifying a set of allocation bits, based on an unallocated summary bit, that corresponds to the other pointers; identify another pointer, of the other pointers, based on an unallocated allocation bit of the set of allocation bits; and send the other pointer in response to the request. |
| US08392669B1 |
Systems and methods for coalescing memory accesses of parallel threads
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for efficiently and flexibly performing coalesced memory accesses for a thread group. For each read application request that services a thread group, the core interface generates one pending request table (PRT) entry and one or more memory access requests. The core interface determines the number of memory access requests and the size of each memory access request based on the spread of the memory access addresses in the application request. Each memory access request specifies the particular threads that the memory access request services. The PRT entry tracks the number of pending memory access requests. As the memory interface completes each memory access request, the core interface uses information in the memory access request and the corresponding PRT entry to route the returned data. When all the memory access requests associated with a particular PRT entry are complete, the core interface satisfies the corresponding application request and frees the PRT entry. |
| US08392668B2 |
Distributed-state-information-based distributed computing systems and methods and protocols for managing distributed state information
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to distributed data-storage systems that provide non-distributed-data-storage-device-like interfaces to host computers that access the distributed data-storage systems. Distributed data-storage systems generally rely on state information used for execution of commands, received from host computers, by component data-storage systems. Command-executing component data-storage systems may access and modify state information shared among many or all of the component data-storage systems. Embodiment methods of the present invention provide methods for partitioning state information within a distributed data-storage system as well as communications protocols and methods for managing shared state information among the component data-storage systems within a distributed data-storage system. In certain embodiments of the present invention, state information is partitioned into one or more of: (1) local state information that is managed, accessed, and modified separately by each component data storage system; (2) shared state information that is locally cached on component data storage systems for immediate read access, that is periodically refreshed, but that is kept globally consistent among component data storage systems by distributing state-modifying operations; and (3) continuously consistent, shared state information. |
| US08392663B2 |
Coherent instruction cache utilizing cache-op execution resources
A multiprocessor system maintains cache coherence among processors in a coherent domain. Within the coherent domain, a first processor can receive a command to perform a cache maintenance operation. The first processor can determine whether the cache maintenance operation is a coherent operation. For coherent operations, the first processor sends a coherent request message for distribution to other processors in the coherent domain and can cancel execution of the cache maintenance operation pending receipt of intervention messages corresponding to the coherent request. The intervention messages can reflect a global ordering of coherence traffic in the multiprocessor system and can include instructions for maintaining a data cache and an instruction cache of the first processor. Cache maintenance operations that are determined to be non-coherent can be executed at the first processor without sending the coherent request. |