最新美国发明专利第2013-04-02期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08409578B2	Methods for treating bone loss with antibodies to OPGL Antibodies that interact with osteoprotegerin ligand (OPGL) are described. Methods of treating osteopenic disorders by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of antibodies to OPGL are described. Methods of detecting the amount of OPGL in a sample using antibodies to OPGL are described.
US08409576B2	Use of IL-1beta compounds This invention relates to methods employing IL-1β-ligand/IL-1 receptor disrupting compounds (herein referred to as “IL-1beta Compounds”); such as small molecular compounds disrupting IL-1β ligand-IL-1 receptor interaction, IL-1β antibodies or IL-1 receptor antibodies, e.g. IL-1β binding molecules as described herein, e.g. antibodies disclosed herein, e.g. IL-1β binding compounds or IL-1 receptor binding compounds, and/or RNA compounds decreasing either IL-1β ligands or IL-1 receptor protein levels, in the treatment and/or prevention of auto-inflammatory syndromes, e.g. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or adult rheumatoid arthritis syndrome and to methods of treating and/or preventing auto-inflammatory syndromes, e.g. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or adult rheumatoid arthritis syndrome, in mammals, particularly humans.
US08409575B2	Antibodies specific for amyloid beta protofibril The invention relates to a purified antibody or fragment thereof that specifically binds an Aβ protofibril. The invention further relates to a composition that includes such antibodies. The invention also relates to using such antibodies and compositions for treating a patient having of suspected of having Alzheimer's disease.
US08409574B2	Taxane analogs for the treatment of brain cancer Provided herein are compounds and methods for the treatment of brain cancer in a mammal, wherein the method comprises the administration to the mammal a compound that stabilizes tubulin dimers or microtubles at G2-M interface during mitosis but is not a substrate for MDR protein. In particular, the present application relates to the use of an orally effective abeo-taxane, alone or in combination with temozolomide or bevacizumab, for the treatment of brain cancer.
US08409571B2	Methods of antagonizing signal transduction in spinal cord cells Use of antagonists to IL-31Ra and OSMRb are used to treat inflammation and pain by inhibiting, preventing, reducing, minimizing, limiting or minimizing stimulation in neuronal tissues. Such antagonists include soluble receptors, antibodies and fragments, derivative, or variants thereof. Symptoms such as pain, tingle, sensitization, tickle associated with neuropathies are ameliorated.
US08409565B2	Therapeutic target and diagnostic marker for asthma and related conditions CD48, a surface-marker molecule present in eosinophils, is disclosed herein as a key molecule in allergic conditions, particularly in allergic airway inflammations like asthma, allergy and nasal polyposis. CD48 is thus presented as a target molecule in the treatment of said conditions. In addition, diagnostic methods, and a kit for the diagnosis of allergic inflammatory conditions are described, based on the detection of CD48 expression.
US08409558B2	Method for treatment of onychomycosis Onychomycosis present in a nail is treated by debridement such as grinding a portion of the nail, which includes an infected portion and thereafter applying a composition containing alkyl cyanoacrylate to the debrided surface which cures to a hard layer. The hard layer can be successively ground and coated with successive layers of alkyl cycanoacrylate.
US08409556B2	Topical formulations for the prevention of sexually transmitted disease and methods of producing the same The present invention is directed towards various topical protective formulations which may be used as an adjunct in preventing the spread of a broad range of sexually transmitted diseases. The product is intended to be used as a topical lotion, cream, emulsion, or the like. The film forming excipients and active ingredients in the following formulations have demonstrated unique skin protective barrier properties with enhanced persistence that inhibits transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
US08409551B2	Water-releasing cosmetic makeup material A water-releasing cosmetic makeup material that has excellent stability, exhibits good dispersion of color pigments, and ruptures smoothly upon application to provide good spreadability and superior feeling. The water-releasing cosmetic makeup material is formed of a water-in-oil emulsion comprising (a) a partially crosslinked polyether-modified silicone, a partially crosslinked polyglycerin-modified silicone, or a combination thereof, (b) an acrylic silicone-based graft copolymer, and (c) a branched silicone surfactant in an amount of 0.05 to 0.7% by mass.
US08409550B2	Method for treating skin with retinoids and retinoid boosters A skin care product comprising from about 0.001% to about 10% of a retinoid, in combination with 0.0001% to about 50% of at combination of retinoid boosters.
US08409549B2	Aerosolized fosfomycin/aminoglycoside combination for the treatment of bacterial respiratory infections A fosfomycin plus tobramycin combination formulation for delivery by aerosolization is described. The concentrated fosfomycin tobramycin combination formulation containing an efficacious amount of fosfomycin plus tobramycin is able to inhibit susceptible bacteria. Fosfomycin and tobramycin are formulated separately in a dual ampoule such that when reconstituted, the pH is between 4.5 and 8.0 or as a dry powder. The method for treatment of respiratory tract infections by a formulation delivered as an aerosol having mass medium average diameter predominantly between 1 to 5 μ, produced by a jet or ultrasonic nebulizer (or equivalent) or dry powder inhaler.
US08409548B2	Administration of growth factors for the treatment of CNS disorders A method and system that is directed to the local delivery of growth factors to the mammalian CNS to treat CNS disorders associated with neuronal death and/or dysfunction is described.
US08409547B2	Radiolabelling methods The invention relates to radiodiagnostic and radiotherapeutic agents, including biologically active vectors labelled with radionuclides. It further relates to methods and reagents labelling a vector such as a peptide comprising reaction of a compound of formula (I) with a compound of formula (II): R*-L2-C≡N+—O− (II) or,a compound of formula (III) with a compound of formula (IV) in the presence of a Cu (I) catalyst. The resultant labelled conjugates are useful as diagnostic agents, for example, as radiopharmaceuticals more specifically for use in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) or for radiotherapy.
US08409546B2	Process for the preparation of zeolites having B-CHA structure The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of zeolites having B-CHA framework structure and a composition comprising the molar ratio (n SiO2):B2O3, wherein n is at least 10, the process comprising (i) preparation of an aqueous solution containing at least one source for B2O3, at least one source for SiO2, at least one source of seeding crystals of chabazite structure, at least one organic structure directing agent (SDA) other than Tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAOH), acting as a template for the B-CHA structure, and Tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAOH), wherein the SDA or mixtures thereof are employed in such amounts that the aqueous solution in (i) exhibits a molar ratio of SDA:TMAOH of 0.01 to 5; (ii) hydrothermal crystallization of the aqueous solution according to (i); wherein B-CHA is essentially free of alkali metal and/or alkaline earth metal and the ratio of the [molar ratio (SiO2:B2O3)] of the gel composition:[molar ratio (SiO2:B2O3)] of the crystalline product having the chabazite structure is greater than 0.5.
US08409544B2	Preparation method of ferroferric oxide magnetic nanospheres Disclosed is a process of preparing magnetite nanoparticles, comprising the following steps: 1) preparing a ferric salt mixed system, wherein a soluble ferric salt is dissolved in glycol at ambient temperature, and then urea and polyethylene glycol are added and mixed homogeneously to obtain the trivalent iron salt mixed system, the mass ratio of glycol to the trivalent iron salt being 15:1 to 60:1, glycol to urea being 20:1 to 100:1, and glycol to polyethylene glycol being 20:1 to 100:1; 2) reacting, wherein the trivalent iron salt mixed system is transferred into a reaction autoclave, sealed and placed into a heating device to react at a temperature of 200 to 300° C. for 8 to 72 hours; and 3) washing, wherein after the reaction system is naturally cooled down to ambient temperature, the product is taken out, and washed with anhydrous ethanol and water in turn to obtain the magnetite nanoparticles. The soluble iron salt includes ferric chloride, ferric sulfate, ferric acetate and ferric nitrate. The obtained nanospheres exhibit a uniform distribution of the particle diameter with a good dispersity in water. The nanospheres have superparamagnetism, and their particle diameter can be controlled by varying the reaction time as desired.
US08409536B2	Exhaust gas purification apparatus of an internal combustion engine A technique that, in an exhaust gas purification apparatus of an internal combustion engine, can avoid a decrease in a NOx purification rate by adding a reducing agent as continuously as possible, while avoiding NH3 from passing through a selective reduction type NOx catalyst to a downstream side thereof. The selective reduction type NOx catalyst has an active spot which purifies NOx by the use of NH3, and an adsorption site which adsorbs NH3, wherein a vicinity site, which is located in the vicinity of the active spot, and a distant site, which is located distant from the active spot, exist in the adsorption site. The addition of the reducing agent from the reducing agent addition part is controlled based on the desorption rate of NH3 in the vicinity site so as to continue to cause the NH3 adsorbed to the vicinity site to exist.
US08409534B2	Control of emissions Methods and apparatus utilizing chlorine dioxide and hydrogen peroxide are useful to reduce emissions of NOx, SOx, and heavy metals, e.g., mercury, emissions from combustion flue gas streams.
US08409531B2	Method and apparatus for storing and dispensing reagent beads Embodiments of the invention provide an efficient and effective technique for storing and dispensing reagent beads. In some embodiments, an apparatus is provided for dispensing reagent beads contained in a bead storage device which includes a bead carrier having a plurality of wells; a plurality of reagent beads disposed in the wells; and a cover tape releasably attached to the bead carrier to cover the wells and retain the reagent beads in the wells. The apparatus comprises a channel in which to place the bead storage device with the bead carrier facing a support wall of the channel and the cover tape facing a stripping wall of the channel. The stripping wall includes a stripping gap disposed between a stripping edge and an opposite edge, and a dispense opening provided adjacent the opposite edge on a side of the stripping wall opposite from the stripping edge. The cover tape is insertable through the stripping gap to be pulled against the stripping edge to peel the cover tape from the bead carrier to move the wells of the bead carrier inside the channel toward the dispense opening and expose the wells individually to dispense the reagent beads.
US08409529B2	Histology slide and paraffin block protector and transport sleeve A protective sheath for prolonged storage of pathology paraffin blocks. The sheath protects the paraffin block against gouging, scratching, denting, rodents, and insects. A pathology slide slides into slots in the protective sheath fixing the slide into position in protective sheath. Fixation points are built on the side of the slide to allow a user or automated system to place and retrieve protective sheath.
US08409527B2	Fluidic connectors and microfluidic systems Fluidic connectors, methods, and devices for performing analysis (e.g., immunoassays) in microfluidic systems are provided. In some embodiments, a fluidic connector having a fluid path is used to connect two independent channels formed in a substrate so as to allow fluid communication between the two independent channels. One or both of the independent channels may be pre-filled with reagents (e.g., antibody solutions, washing buffers and amplification reagents), which can be used to perform the analysis. These reagents may be stored in the channels of the substrate for long periods amounts of time (e.g., 1 year) prior to use.
US08409522B2	Analyzing instrument, temperature control method for liquid in analyzing instrument, and analyzing apparatus This invention relates to a technique for adjusting the temperature of a liquid held on an analyzing instrument (1) to a target value. The invention provides a temperature control method wherein thermal energy is supplied to liquid (10) by passing a magnetic flux across an analyzing instrument (1) for raising the temperature of the liquid. The invention also provides an analyzing instrument (1) and analyzing apparatus (X) which are suited to raising the temperature of a liquid (10) using a magnetic flux.
US08409521B2	Tubular reactor with jet impingement heat transfer A tubular reactor for producing a product mixture in a tubular reactor where the tubular reactor comprises an internal catalytic insert with cup-shaped structures having orifices for forming fluid jets for impinging the fluid on the tube wall. Jet impingement is used to improve heat transfer between the fluid in the tube and the tube wall in a non-adiabatic reactor. The tubular reactor and method may be used for endothermic reactions such as steam methane reforming and for exothermic reactions such as methanation.
US08409518B2	Sulfur tolerant perovskite supported catalysts A sulfur tolerant oxidation catalyst with appreciable NO and HC oxidation capabilities has been developed for use in any component of an exhaust aftertreatment system for a lean-burn engine where the oxidation of at least NO is desired. Several non-exclusive examples of such components where the oxidation catalyst may be employed include a DOC and a LNT. The oxidation catalyst may comprise perovskite oxide particles that support palladium particles. The ability of the palladium supported perovskite oxide particles to concurrently oxidize NO and HC's can significantly diminish or altogether eliminate the use of platinum in the exhaust aftertreatment system for at least NO oxidation. The oxidation catalyst, moreover, may exhibit superior thermal durability and better NO and HC oxidation activities than platinum in some instances.
US08409516B2	Monolith, catalyst convertor for purifying exhaust gas using the same and method for manufacturing the catalyst convertor Provided is a catalyst converter for purifying exhaust gas and a method for manufacturing the catalyst converter, in which a heater is disposed between inner/outer monoliths, to thereby heighten a heat transfer efficiency and induce a uniform catalytic reaction, and to thereby enhance a processing performance, and minimize an electric power consumption and miniaturize a device. The catalyst converter includes: a heater having a winding portion which is wound so as to have a space therein and a pair of electric power terminals; inner and outer monoliths which are inserted in the inner and outer circumferential portions of the heater winding portion wherein each of the inner and outer monoliths includes a number of hollow cells on the surfaces of which catalysts have been coated and which are formed in the lengthy direction; and a housing in which a support assembly is assembled.
US08409515B2	Exhaust gas treatment system An emission treatment system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine is described. The emission treatment system has an HC-SCR catalyst including a non-Pt group metal dispersed in a ceramic matrix configured to receive an exhaust gas flow from an engine. The system also has an oxidation catalyst comprising a Pt group metal configured to receive the exhaust gas flow from the HC-SCR catalyst. The system also has a U-SCR catalyst and a diesel particulate filter, one of the U-SCR catalyst or the DPF configured to receive the exhaust gas flow from the oxidation catalyst and the other one of the U-SCR catalyst or the diesel particulate filter configured to receive the exhaust gas flow from the respective one.
US08409507B2	Automatic analyzer An automatic analyzer includes a status table storing the status of each analysis module and reagent information identifying each reagent, the supply of which is exhausted, and allowing tracking of the status of each analysis module, etc. The automatic analyzer determines, based on the status table, whether and how it can continue current analysis, and stores the determination results in its instruction information table. The instruction information table stores analysis-unit or -module operating information and information to be supplied to the user or operator. The analysis-unit operating information includes instructions for the analysis modules to initiate an analysis in a normal manner, finish an analysis in a normal manner, omit a pre-analysis operation, omit a post-analysis operation, or stop sampling, etc. Further, the reagent information and the analysis module status are updated each time a reagent container is replaced by the operator.
US08409504B2	Method for supplying gas mixtures for an analyzer The invention relates to a fluid analysis device that comprises an analyzer and a system for supplying an instrumentation gas to said analyzer, characterized in that the supply system includes at least one mixer generating said instrumentation gas, and at least one purifier located downstream from said at least one mixer and upstream from said analyzer.
US08409502B2	Methods, apparatuses, and applications for compliant membrane blood gas exchangers A compliant blood gas exchanger is provided including a housing having a first end cap, a second end cap, and an elastomeric sidewall or sleeve extending there between forming a chamber. A hollow fiber assembly is disposed in the chamber. The hollow fiber assembly has a first mounting collar, a second mounting collar and a plurality of hollow fibers disposed there between. The first end cap is disposed in communication with the first mounting collar and the second end cap is disposed in communication with the second mounting collar. The end caps are connected to a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The chamber is in communication with a blood inlet and a blood outlet. The elastomeric sidewall is responsive to internal and external pressures affecting the chamber. The first chamber can also be placed adjacent to a second chamber and both chambers placed within a rigid outer housing. Thus, a dual-chamber pulsatile blood gas exchanger can be provided. That is, the second chamber may be in connection with a pump mechanism or vacuum mechanism such that the chamber creates a pulsatile flow within the first chamber.
US08409500B2	Bottle, system and method for sterilizing a liquid A bottle, a system and a method sterilize a liquid. The bottle has an interior to hold the liquid and an ultraviolet light emitting lamp that extends into the interior. A cord may be attached to the bottle so that pulling the cord may power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp and/or charge a battery used to power the ultraviolet light emitting lamp. The bottle may have a status light that indicates that the ultraviolet light emitting lamp may have an amount of power equal to or greater than a threshold value, such as, for example, an amount of power necessary for the ultraviolet light emitting lamp to operate for ninety seconds. The bottle may have a removable lid located opposite to the ultraviolet light emitting lamp.
US08409497B2	Hot and cold rolling high strength L12 aluminum alloys A method and apparatus for producing high strength aluminum alloys from a powder containing Ll2 intermetallic dispersoids. The powder is degassed, sealed under vacuum in a container, consolidated by vacuum hot pressing, extruded into a rolling preform and rolled into a usable part.
US08409496B2	Superplastic forming high strength L12 aluminum alloys A method and apparatus produces high strength aluminum alloys from a powder containing L12 intermetallic dispersoids. The powder is degassed, sealed under vacuum in a container, consolidated by vacuum hot pressing, and superplastically formed into a usable part.
US08409495B2	Rotor with inlet perimeters A device for use in a molten metal pump helps alleviate jams between rotating rotor blades and a stationary pump base. The device includes inlet perimeters that partially define one or more openings, and one or more rotor blades, wherein each rotor blade has a portion that directs molten metal into a pump chamber, and a portion that directs molten metal outwards. Each rotor blade may also include a recess that makes an opening larger to enable more molten metal to pass through the openings.
US08409494B2	Slag discharge door apparatus for electric furnace A slag discharge door apparatus for an electric furnace is disclosed. The apparatus includes a door which is operated by a door operator to open or close a slag discharge outlet of the electric furnace, and a door support which supports the door in such a way that a portion of a lower end of the door overlaps with the door support, so that slag is inhibited from leaking out of the electric furnace through the slag discharge outlet.
US08409490B2	Polyester resin container and molding process thereof The technical problem to be solved by this invention is to develop a polyester resin container that can be retort-processed at a temperature in the range of above 120° C. to about 130° C. The object of this invention is to provide a polyester resin container, which is capable of improving the productivity and quality of retort foods, and a molding process thereof. The process of this invention is a double blow molding process, which comprises a primary blow molding step in which a preform is biaxially drawn and blow molded into a primary intermediate product, a thermally shrink-molding step in which the primary intermediate product is heated and forcibly shrink-molded into a secondary intermediate product, and a secondary blow molding step for blow molding the secondary intermediate product into a container, wherein the process is characterized in that a mold temperature higher than 210° C. is used in the secondary blow molding step.
US08409489B2	Insertion plunger and method for inserting wrap-around labels and container bottom labels into an injection mold An insertion plunger for inserting at least one wrap-around label and at least one bottom label into an injection mold for producing a plastic container has an outer plunger and an inner plunger that is movable relative to the outer plunger. In a method for insertion of a wrap-around label and a bottom label into an injection mold, the labels are inserted by an insertion plunger in that the wrap-around label and the bottom label are inserted in a single stroke performed by the insertion plunger into the injection mold.
US08409484B2	Method for producing a ceramic compact A ceramic compact having a patterned conductor is obtained by coating the patterned conductor with a slurry and then by hardening the slurry. The slurry is prepared by mixing a thermosetting resin precursor, a ceramic powder, and a medium. In the ceramic compact, an isocyanate- or isothiocyanate-containing gelling agent and a hydroxyl-containing polymer are reacted and hardened to produce a thermosetting resin. The hydroxyl-containing polymer is preferably a butyral resin, an ethylcellulose-based resin, a polyethyleneglycol-based resin, or a polyether-based resin.
US08409483B2	Methods and apparatus for use in solid freeform fabrication A method and apparatus are disclosed for producing a three-dimensional body consisting of individual solidified layers, whereby a coating material is disposed on one of a carrier plate and an already-solidified layer of the body in a first layer thickness by slidably withdrawing a bottom plate of a storage container filled with the coating material, thereby allowing coating material to descend from the storage container onto the carrier plate or already-solidified layer of the body. The first layer thickness of the coating material is then reduced to a lesser second layer thickness by re-inserting the bottom plate through the coating material disposed on the carrier plate or already-solidified layer. The coating material is then solidified at predetermined locations in order to generate a desired layer contour of one solidified layer of the three-dimensional body.
US08409482B2	Porous member According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a porous member formed by providing a member formed of a fluororesin containing carbon fiber and having a predetermined shape and exposing the member to an oxidizing gas to remove the carbon fiber contained in the member.
US08409478B2	Flame retardant composition The invention relates to a flame retardant composition, particularly designed for fire fighting with aerial means. The retardant composition comprises a liquid ammonium polyphosphate of chain length with a value of n between 2 and 3, n being the number of condensation groups, and an ammonium polyphosphate in powder form in suspension, with a chain length with a value of n between 100 and 1500. In addition to the above, the flame retardant composition comprises corrosion inhibitors, in particular zinc orthophosphate dihydrate, and at least one surfactant agent as wetting agent or dispensing agent, an organic or inorganic thickening agent and at least one coloring agent.
US08409476B2	High work function transparent conductors There is provided a transparent conductor including conductive nanoparticles and at least one of (a) a fluorinated acid polymer and (b) a semiconductive polymer doped with a fluorinated acid polymer. The nanoparticles are carbon nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, or combinations thereof. The carbon and metal nanoparticles are selected from nanotubes, fullerenes, and nanofibers. The acid polymers are fluorinated or highly fluorinated and have acidic groups including carboxylic acid groups, sulfonic acid groups, sulfonimide groups, phosphoric acid groups, phosphonic acid groups, and combinations thereof. The semiconductive polymers comprise homopolymers and copolymers derived from monomers selected from substituted and unsubstituted thiophenes, pyrroles, anilines, and cyclic heteroaromatics, and combinations of those. The compositions may be used in organic electronic devices (OLEDs).
US08409474B2	Use of polynuclear phenolic compounds as stabilisers The use of polycyclic phenolic compounds which have up to 20 benzene rings per molecule and are obtainable by reacting a tetrahydrobenzoxazine I where R1 is a hydrocarbyl radical and R2, R3, R4 and R5 are each independently hydrogen atoms, hydroxyl groups or hydrocarbyl radicals with one or more of the same or different phenols II where R7, R8, R9 and R10 are each independently hydrogen atoms, hydroxyl groups or hydrocarbyl radicals, and/or with one or more of the same or different tetrahydrobenzoxazines I, with the proviso that at least one of the substituents has from 13 to 3000 carbon atoms and the remaining substituents, when they are hydrocarbyl radicals, have in each case from 1 to 20 carbon atoms as stabilizers for stabilizing inanimate organic material against the action of light, oxygen and heat.
US08409473B2	Group II alloyed I-III-VI semiconductor nanocrystal compositions and methods of making same A semiconductor nanocrystal composition that is stable and has high luminescent quantum yield. The semiconductor nanocrystal composition has a semiconductor nanocrystal core of a group II alloyed I-III-VI semiconductor nanocrystal material. A method of making a semiconductor nanocrystal composition is also provides which includes synthesizing a semiconductor nanocrystal core of a group II alloyed I-III-VI semiconductor material.
US08409471B2	Green phosphor and display device including the same A green phosphor including a compound represented by Formula 1 (Y3-xMx) (Al5-yM′y)O12:Cez and a pigment. The green phosphor having the compound represented by Formula 1 and a pigment has a shorter decay time than conventional phosphors, and thereby confers excellent luminescence characteristics and color purity. A display panel including the green phosphor 1 is also provided herein.
US08409468B2	Liquid crystal composition, liquid crystal panel using the same, and liquid crystal shutter glasses According to one embodiment, a liquid crystal composition includes a liquid crystal material and a polymer. The liquid crystal material exhibits a blue phase. The polymer has a first repeating unit containing a fluorine atom and an acrylic group.
US08409459B2	Hollow cathode device and method for using the device to control the uniformity of a plasma process A chamber component configured to be coupled to a processing chamber is described. The chamber component comprises one or more adjustable gas passages through which a process gas is introduced to the process chamber. The adjustable gas passage may be configured to form a hollow cathode that creates a hollow cathode plasma in a hollow cathode region having one or more plasma surfaces in contact with the hollow cathode plasma. Therein, at least one of the one or more plasma surfaces is movable in order to vary the size of the hollow cathode region and adjust the properties of the hollow cathode plasma. Furthermore, one or more adjustable hollow cathodes may be utilized to adjust a plasma process for treating a substrate.
US08409455B1	Methods and devices for ultra smooth substrate for use in thin film solar cell manufacturing Methods and devices for high-throughput manufacturing of a solar cell with a diode is provided.
US08409450B2	Graphene-based structure, method of suspending graphene membrane, and method of depositing material onto graphene membrane An embodiment of a method of suspending a graphene membrane across a gap in a support structure includes attaching graphene to a substrate. A pre-fabricated support structure having the gap is attached to the graphene. The graphene and the pre-fabricated support structure are then separated from the substrate which leaves the graphene membrane suspended across the gap in the pre-fabricated support structure. An embodiment of a method of depositing material includes placing a support structure having a graphene membrane suspended across a gap under vacuum. A precursor is adsorbed to a surface of the graphene membrane. A portion of the graphene membrane is exposed to a focused electron beam which deposits a material from the precursor onto the graphene membrane. An embodiment of a graphene-based structure includes a support structure having a gap, a graphene membrane suspended across the gap, and a material deposited in a pattern on the graphene membrane.
US08409447B2	Separation chip and separation method A separation chip for separating an insoluble component from a suspension using centrifugal force by rotation, includes a suspension holding tank, a separation liquid holding tank, and an insoluble component holding tank arranged in order from an inner circumferential side during rotation, wherein the suspension holding tank and the insoluble component holding tank are connected to each other, the insoluble component holding tank and the separation liquid holding tank are connected to each other by a narrow portion, and in the insoluble component holding tank, a connecting portion with the suspension holding tank is positioned further toward an outer circumferential side than the narrow portion.
US08409445B2	Method for removing gases from a container having a powdered concentrate for use in hemodialysis An apparatus and a method for filling a container containing a dry powdered salt concentrate for use in dialysis with purified fluid and removing the trapped air or gases generated during the filling of the container, while maintaining the required fluid level in the container and without the need for evacuating gases from the container prior to filling.
US08409443B2	Vessel, dispensing devices, kits and methods for containing fluids A device for limiting sample evaporation. The device has a vessel body having a body exterior surface and at least one body interior surface. The at least one body interior surface has one or more walls defining a first chamber, a second chamber and a conduit means. The first chamber has a first chamber opening for receiving at least one of the groups selected from a sample and a sample dispensing device. The first chamber opening defines the border of the body exterior surface and the body interior surface. The conduit means is in communication with the first chamber and the second chamber for receiving at least one of the group consisting of sample from said first chamber, a sample from a sample dispensing device and a sample dispensing device passing through or into the conduit means for placing the sample in the conduit means or into the second chamber. The second chamber is in communication with the conduit means for receiving and containing the sample from at least one of the group selected from the sample dispensing device and conduit means. The conduit means is arranged such that the sample in the second chamber is substantially isolated from the atmosphere to limit sample evaporation in the second chamber as the sample is contained therein.
US08409442B2	Water separation method and apparatus A system for treating fractionated water from an oil and gas well. The system comprising a filter system, a diffusive membrane system, a plurality of membrane sensors, and at least one membrane controller. The filter system is fluidly connected to the diffusive membrane system, wherein the filter system comprises a plurality of straining filter banks. The diffusive membrane system comprises a plurality of membrane banks each having an inlet and an outlet. The plurality of membrane sensors are positioned at the outlet of each of the plurality of membrane banks, and the plurality of membrane sensors are configured to detect the total dissolved solids level at the outlet of each of the plurality of membrane banks. The at least one membrane controller is programmed to selectively disengage and isolate at least one of the plurality of membrane banks from fluid communication with the system upon detection if the total dissolved solids level at the outlet of one or more of the membrane banks is above about 20,000 ppm. A method is also provided.
US08409438B2	Apparatus and method for treating radioactive nitrate waste liquid To provide an apparatus for treating a radioactive nitrate waste liquid that includes a denitrification tank (12A) which accommodates active sludge that adsorbs or takes in the radioactive substance in a nitrate waste liquid (11) and in which an anaerobic microorganism that reduces the nitrate to nitrogen gas grows, and a reaeration tank (14) in which a denitrification-treated liquid (24) treated in the denitrification tank (12A) is aerated and mixed with active sludge. A pH adjuster (21), a carbon source (22), and nitrogen gas are supplied to the denitrification tank (12A) so as to separate a denitrified liquid into a solid content and the denitrification-treated liquid (24) by using a first solid-liquid separating film (25), and the denitrification-treated liquid (24) treated with the active sludge in the reaeration tank (14) is reaerated and separated into a solid content and a reaeration-treated liquid (27) by using a second solid-liquid separating film (28).
US08409431B2	Charging apparatus Intended is to reduce pressure fluctuations across a filter (14) for filtering a resist liquid. A charging apparatus is provided including a charge liquid tank (2) of resist liquid, a feed pump (10), a charge nozzle (8), a recovery passage (16), a recovery valve (20) disposed in the recovery passage (16), the filter (14), and a control device (24) for controlling the servomotors to adjust the openings of the charge valve (12) and the recovery valve (20) so that the pressures on the upstream side and the downstream side of the filter (14) may not fluctuate.
US08409429B2	Filter device and filter method In order to provide a filter device for filtering a fluid medium containing solids, comprising a backflushing filter and a flushing line, by means of which fluid backflushed during a backflushing phase from the backflushing filter can be supplied to a further treatment mechanism, in which the discharging of dirt from the backflushing filter is simplified, it is proposed that the backflushing filter should have a coarse dirt outlet which is connected to the flushing line so that coarse dirt which has arrived through the coarse dirt outlet into the flushing line can be supplied to the further treatment mechanism together with the backflushed fluid during the backflushing phase.
US08409428B2	Catalyst additive for reduction of sulfur in catalytically cracked gasoline The present invention concerns a novel additive composition for reducing sulfur content of a catalytically cracked gasoline fraction. This additive composition comprises a support consisting of porous clay into which a first metal from group IVB is incorporated and a second metal from group IIB is impregnated. Preferably, the first incorporated metal is zirconium and the second impregnated metal is zinc. The sulfur reduction additive is used in combination with a conventional cracking catalyst in a fluidized catalytic cracking process to convert hydrocarbon feed stocks into gasoline having comparatively lower sulfur content and other liquid products.
US08409422B2	Method and apparatus for producing hydrogen and oxygen gas This invention relates to a process and an apparatus for generating hydrogen and oxygen gas by electrolysis of water. The process involves forming an electrolyte including alkaline ions and the water and generating plasma between electrodes immersed in the electrolyte by applying an electrical potential between the electrodes. The plasma ionizes the electrolyte, thereby generating hydrogen and oxygen gas. The process further involves controlling the process by relocating the generated plasma between two or more further electrodes.
US08409419B2	Conversion of carbon to hydrocarbons The invention provides methods of forming lower alkyls and alcohols from carbon sources thermally and/or electrolytically.
US08409418B2	Enhanced plating chemistries and methods for preparation of group IBIIIAVIA thin film solar cell absorbers The present invention provides a method and precursor structure to form a Group IBIIIAIVA solar cell absorber layer. The method includes forming a Group IBIIIAVIA compound layer on a base by forming a precursor layer on the base through electrodepositing three different films, and then reacting the precursor layer with selenium to form the Group IBIIIAVIA compound layer on the base. The three films, described by the precursor layer, include in one embodiment a first alloy film comprising copper, indium and gallium, a second alloy film comprising copper and selenium formed on the first alloy film; and a selenium film formed on the second alloy film.
US08409416B2	Device for removing foreign material from processing tank An electrodeposition tank that pools and enables fluidization and agitation of an electrodeposition paint into which a work is to be immersed, the electrodeposition tank including: a grooved part having a plurality of concave and convex shapes formed along a work-conveying direction on a bottom surface of the electrodeposition tank; an electrodeposition paint supply pipe that circulates and supplies the electrodeposition paint to the electrodeposition tank; a plurality of branch pipes that are arranged on ridges of the grooved part and that branch off the electrodeposition paint supply pipe; and electrodeposition paint discharge nozzles provided oriented upstream in the work-conveying direction at a section of the branch pipes that opposes bottom parts of the grooved part.
US08409415B2	Manipulation of magnetic or magnetizable objects using magnetophoresis and dielectrophoresis A device for manipulating magnetic or magnetizable objects in a medium is provided. The device has a surface lying in a plane and comprises a set of at least two conductors electrically isolated from each other, wherein the at least two conductors are adapted for both generating a magnetophoresis force for moving the magnetic or magnetizable objects over the surface of the device in a direction substantially parallel to the plane of the surface, and generating a dielectrophoresis force for moving the magnetic or magnetizable objects in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the surface. Also provided is a method for manipulating magnetic or magnetizable objects in a medium. The method uses a combined magnetophoresis and dielectrophoresis actuation principle for controlling in-plane as well as out-of-plane movement of the magnetic or magnetizable objects.
US08409414B2	Gas sensor and nitrogen oxide sensor A gas sensor and nitrogen oxide sensor, which, when fitted to the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine, can suppress the influence of harmful substances contained in a measurement gas and can prevent the reduction in sensitivity over time. A harmful substance-trapping layer is formed at a gas inlet for introducing a to-be-measured gas from an external space into an internal space, and in a buffering space formed between diffusion resistance portions. In a trap-formed portion of a gas passage in which the harmful substance-trapping layer is formed, the measurement gas can pass in an amount of 80% or more of when the harmful substance-trapping layer is not formed in the trap-formed portion. A diffusion resistance is attained in the diffusion resistance portions; a harmful substance is trapped in the harmful substance-trapping layer; and the measurement gas is allowed to flow into a detection electrode side.
US08409411B2	Nano-porous membrane based sensors Sensors include nano-porous alumina membranes that are sensitized by immobilization of antibodies in the nano-pores. The nano-membranes can be sensitized to respond to a single target compound, or different portions of the nano-membrane can be differently sensitized. Capture of the target compound can be detected based on a spectral signature associated with electrical conductance in the nano-pores.
US08409410B2	Conductivity sensor device comprising diamond film with at least one nanopore or micropore Sensor device for ion channel recordings; liquid-liquid measurements and resistive pulse particle counting comprising; at least one sensor element; the element comprising a diamond thin film substrate and a pore which is a nanopore or a micropore included in the substrate. This device may be used in analysis, for instance the device may be used for single molecule detection of an apialyte (e.g. DNA), for the analysis of interactions between a sensor element and an analyte, for the detection of pore forming entities, or for the determination of ion transfer.
US08409408B2	Apparatus for electrochemical modification of liquid streams An apparatus for electrochemical modification of liquid streams employing an electrolytic cell having an oxidation site defined by an anode, an anode compartment comprising liquid electrolyte anolyte where oxidation is effected, a cathode compartment comprising liquid electrolyte catholyte where reduction is effected, a cathode comprising conducting cathode particulates forming a cathode particulates bed and a current feeder device in at least intermittent contact with said cathode particulates where the cathode particulates are in motion and the particulates motion is substantially independent of bulk electrolyte flow, a separator which confines the cathode particulates to the cathode compartment, constrains electrolyte flow through the cathode particulates bed and permits ionic conduction of current between the anode and cathode, a cathode particulates conveyance system arranged to manipulate cathode particulates motion including a magnetic subsystem having at least one source of magnetic field arranged to interact with cathode particulates via magnetic field interaction.
US08409407B2	Methods for high-rate sputtering of a compound semiconductor on large area substrates Methods are generally provided for sputtering thin films on individual substrates. Individual substrates can be conveyed into a vacuum chamber to draw a sputtering pressure that is less than about 50 mTorr. Then, the individual substrates can be conveyed into a sputtering chamber and past a planar magnetron continuously sputtering a target by an ionized gas at the sputtering pressure such that a thin film is formed on a surface of the individual substrate. The target is subjected to a high frequency power having a frequency from about 400 kHz to about 4 MHz at power levels of greater than about 1 kW. In one particular embodiment, the method can be generally directed to sputtering thin films on individual substrates defining a surface having a surface area of about 1000 cm2 to about 2500 cm2.
US08409403B2	Production of amino lignin and amino lignin cellulose resins and adhesives Flame retardant and water resistant products are produced from bio-based materials such as lignin cellulose containing materials. The lignin cellulose materials are modified by the method of delignification. The method of this invention utilizes an amino compound in an aqueous solution to react with the lignin in the lignin cellulose and the amino lignin and freed lignin becomes water soluble. The amino compound also reacts with the non-water soluble lignin still attached to the cellulose and also to the cellulose that is produced. Other products are produced in this method such as carbohydrates, hemi-cellulose, rosins, waxes, alcohols and other products. The amino lignin, lignin, amino lignin and amino cellulose is reacted with many organic and inorganic compounds such as aldehydes, polyisocyanates, epoxies, polycarboxylic acids, vegetable oils and many other compounds to produce resins and adhesives which may be used to produce products such as molded products, particleboard, plywood, ABS, etc. which are flame retardant and water resistant.
US08409392B2	Method of manufacturing ultra-thin and elastic keypad The present invention pertains to a method of manufacturing ultra-thin and elastic keypad, especially comprising the processing of the elastic film, silicone adhesive, and plastic film. Wherein, the present method simply takes advantage of the steps of printing, oil pressing, and trimming to easily finish the keypad, which favorably avoids the complex process of spraying P+R, deviation from the forming of IMD products, and defectiveness of spraying and cutting applied on silicone products. Manifestly, the present invention simplifies the intricate processes, and only oil-pressing die and punching die are involved, namely less equipment and fewer personnel as well as places are required. Therefore, the present invention is uncomplicated and low-cost.
US08409389B2	Method and apparatus for adhesive bond curing Portable apparatus for curing a part includes a wheeled frame having sliding part supports that move the part from a loading position to a curing position. A part clamping assembly is slidably mounted on the frame to apply clamping pressure to the part when the part is in the curing position in order to compact the part during a cure cycle. The clamping assembly includes a set of electrically heated shoes that heat the part to a cure temperature. A fan is provided to accelerate cool down the part after curing is complete. The heating and cooling operations are automatically performed by a programmed controller.
US08409388B2	Method and system for manufacturing optical display device A system for manufacturing an optical display device includes an optical display unit feeding apparatus with a counting section counting the number of optical display units fed, an optical film feeding apparatus with a roll exchanging section exchanging a roll of a previous category for a roll of a latter category and joining the optical films on each, a bonding apparatus bonding a cut optical film onto a surface of an optical display unit, and a controller storing the number N of optical display units that are bonded correspondingly with the optical films that are present from a joining position to a bonding position of the optical film, and stops the apparatuses when the number of remaining sheets of the optical display units of the previous category prior to bonding becomes substantially equal to the number N at the time of exchanging categories based on information from the counting section.
US08409383B1	Passively damped vibration welding system and method A vibration welding system includes a controller, welding horn, an anvil, and a passive damping mechanism (PDM). The controller generates an input signal having a calibrated frequency. The horn vibrates in a desirable first direction at the calibrated frequency in response to the input signal to form a weld in a work piece. The PDM is positioned with respect to the system, and substantially damps or attenuates vibration in an undesirable second direction. A method includes connecting the PDM having calibrated properties and a natural frequency to an anvil of an ultrasonic welding system. Then, an input signal is generated using a weld controller. The method includes vibrating a welding horn in a desirable direction in response to the input signal, and passively damping vibration in an undesirable direction using the PDM.
US08409378B2	Ignition charge The invention relates to a lead- and barium-free ignition charge which does not contain any oxidant, and its use.
US08409376B2	Compositions and methods for surface abrasion with frozen particles Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to compositions, methods, devices, systems, and products regarding frozen particles. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles include materials at low temperatures. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles provide vehicles for delivery of particular agents. In certain embodiments, the frozen particles are administered to at least one biological tissue.
US08409374B2	Heat treatment of aluminium alloy high pressure die castings A method for the heat treatment of a casting produced by high pressure die casting, that may exhibit blister forming porosity in the as-cast condition, of an age-hardenable aluminum alloy, includes solution treating the casting by heating the casting to and within a temperature range enabling solute elements to be taken into solid solution. The casting then is cooled to terminate the solution treatment by quenching the casting to a temperature below 100° C. The cooled casting is held in a temperature range enabling natural and/or artificial ageing. The solution treatment is conducted to achieve a level of solute element solution enabling age-hardening without expansion of pores in the casting causing unacceptable blistering of the casting.
US08409371B2	Method for producing soft magnetic metal powder coated with Mg-containing oxide film A method for producing a soft magnetic metal powder coated with a Mg-containing oxide film, comprising the steps of adding and mixing a Mg powder with a soft magnetic metal powder which has been subjected to heating treatment in an oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature of 40 to 500° C. to obtain a mixed powder, and heating the mixed powder at a temperature of 150 to 1,100° C. in an inert gas or vacuum atmosphere under a pressure of 1×10−12 to 1×10−1 MPa, while optionally tumbling; and a method for producing a composite soft magnetic material from the soft magnetic metal powder coated with a Mg-containing oxide film.
US08409370B2	Treatment solution for insulation coating for grain oriented electrical steel sheet and method for producing grain oriented electrical steel sheet having insulation coating A treatment solution for insulation coating for grain oriented electrical steel sheet includes at least one member selected from phosphates of Mg, Ca, Ba, Sr, Zn, Al, and Mn, and colloidal silica in a proportion of 0.2 to 10 mol in terms of SiO2 and a titanium chelate compound in a proportion of 0.01 to 4.0 mol in terms of Ti, relative to PO4: 1 mol in the phosphates.
US08409361B2	Controlling method of dishwasher Dishwashers and methods of control for operation of dishwashers are disclosed. The operation of the dishwasher can include a drying cycle which uses a steam generator to supply steam to heat a washing compartment. The steam can evaporate moisture on the dishes in the washing compartment. When a condition of the dishwasher is met, such as a temperature or operation time meeting a preset value, an exhaust fan may exhaust air from inside the washing compartment. The operation of the dishwasher can improve power consumption and dry dishes more efficiently.
US08409357B2	Self-cleaning apparatus and method for thick slurry pressure control Self-cleaning apparatus and methods are disclosed for handling viscous fluids, such as thick solid-liquid slurries of lignocellulosic biomass and its components, under high pressure, using an array of retractable valves.
US08409356B2	Method for glycosylating and separating plant fiber material The invention relates to a method for hydrolyzing the plant fiber material to produce and separate a saccharide including glucose. The method includes a hydrolysis process of hydrolyzing cellulose contained in the plant fiber material and producing glucose in a first organic solvent having a cluster acid catalyst dissolved therein.
US08409355B2	Low profile process kit Embodiments of process kits for substrate supports of semiconductor substrate process chambers are provided herein. In some embodiments, a process kit for a semiconductor process chamber may include an annular body being substantially horizontal and having an inner and an outer edge, and an upper and a lower surface; an inner lip disposed proximate the inner edge and extending vertically from the upper surface; and an outer lip disposed proximate the outer edge and on the lower surface, and having a shape conforming to a surface of the substrate support pedestal. In some embodiments, a process kit for a semiconductor process chamber my include an annular body having an inner and an outer edge, and having an upper and lower surface, the upper surface disposed at a downward angle of between about 5-65 degrees in an radially outward direction from the inner edge toward the outer edge.
US08409353B2	Water cooled gas injector A method and apparatus for oxidizing materials used in semiconductor integrated circuits, for example, for oxidizing silicon to form a dielectric gate. An ozonator is capable of producing a stream of least 70% ozone. The ozone passes into an RTP chamber through a water-cooled injector projecting into the chamber. Other gases such as hydrogen to increase oxidation rate, diluent gas such as nitrogen or O2, enter the chamber through another inlet. The chamber is maintained at a low pressure below 20 Torr and the substrate is advantageously maintained at a temperature less than 800° C. Alternatively, the oxidation may be performed in an LPCVD chamber including a pedestal heater and a showerhead gas injector in opposition to the pedestal.
US08409352B2	Method of manufacturing semiconductor device, method of manufacturing substrate and substrate processing apparatus An apparatus including a reaction chamber in which substrates are stacked; a first gas supply nozzle installed in a region in which the substrates are stacked; a second gas supply nozzle installed in a different position; a first branch nozzle installed at the first gas supply nozzle in a direction parallel to major surfaces of the substrates, a line of which is branched in a direction of the second gas supply nozzle, and including a first gas supply port; and a second branch nozzle installed at the second gas supply nozzle in the direction parallel to the major surfaces of the substrates, a line of which is branched in a direction of the first gas supply nozzle, and including a second gas supply port; wherein the first gas supply port and the second gas supply port are installed adjacent to each other in a direction that the substrates are stacked.
US08409350B2	Gallium nitride crystal growth method, gallium nitride crystal substrate, epi-wafer manufacturing method, and epi-wafer Affords gallium nitride crystal growth methods, gallium nitride crystal substrates, epi-wafers, and methods of manufacturing the epi-wafers, that make it possible to curb cracking that occurs during thickness reduction operations on the crystal, and to grow gallium nitride crystal having considerable thickness. A gallium nitride crystal growth method in one aspect of the present invention is a method of employing a carrier gas, a gallium nitride precursor, and a gas containing silicon as a dopant, and by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) growing gallium nitride crystal onto an undersubstrate. The gallium nitride crystal growth method is characterized in that the carrier-gas dew point during the gallium nitride crystal growth is −60° C. or less.
US08409348B2	Production method of zinc oxide single crystal A production method of a zinc oxide single crystal, comprising depositing a crystal of zinc oxide on a seed crystal from a mixed melt of zinc oxide and a solvent capable of melting zinc oxide and having a higher average density than zinc oxide in the melt. Preferably, a zinc oxide single crystal is continuously pulled while supplying the same amount of a zinc oxide raw material as that of the pulled zinc oxide. A single crystal excellent in the crystal quality and long in the pulling direction can be continuously produced.
US08409345B1	Gaseous concrete raw mixture A mixture for making gaseous concrete includes Portland cement, slaked lime, ash, aluminum gas forming material, dispersed reinforcing fiber, water, and as the gas forming material and the dispersed reinforcing fiber, it contains aluminated glass fiber, with the following ratio of components in mass %: Portland cement 30-34, Slaked lime 3-4, Ash 18-22, Aluminated glass fiber 1-5, water 37-42, Hemihydrate gypsum 0.4-0.5.
US08409344B2	Cement and methods of preparing cement Cement compositions and methods for making cement compositions are provided. The cement compositions can comprise at least one oxide having a particle size of less than about 600 nm. The methods for making cement may include: providing a mixture of compounds containing the required calcium, silicon, aluminum, and iron to provide at least one of tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, tricalcium aluminate, tetracalcium aluminoferrite, other calcium silicates, aluminates, ferrites, and silicates or combinations thereof; adding a fuel source and an oxidizer to the mixture of compounds; and heating the mixture of compounds, the fuel source, and the oxidizer such that the mixture of compounds, the fuel source, and the oxidizer ignite to form the at least one tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, tricalcium aluminate, and tetracalcium aluminoferrite, or combinations thereof.
US08409339B2	CO2 recovery system and method A CO2 recovery system includes an absorption tower and a regeneration tower. CO2 rich solution is produced in the absorption tower by absorbing CO2 from CO2-containing gas. The CO2 rich solution is conveyed to the regeneration tower where lean solution is produced from the rich solution by removing CO2. A regeneration heater heats lean solution that accumulates near a bottom portion of the regeneration tower with saturated steam thereby producing steam condensate from the saturated steam. A steam-condensate heat exchanger heats the rich solution conveyed from the absorption tower to the regeneration tower with the steam condensate.
US08409337B1	Air handling filtration equipment with adjustable media bed and method of use A deep bed scrubber filter section comprises includes an unfiltered air input end, a filtered air output end, an airflow filtration path extending from the unfiltered air input end to the filtered air output end, a plurality of media beds along the airflow filtration path in series arrangement with one another, the media beds each having a media bed volume and each being defined by a plurality of sidewalls, two of the sidewalls of each of the media beds being perforated sidewalls at least partially intersecting the airflow filtration path, wherein an adjustable sidewall of at least one of the perforated sidewalls of a first media bed of the media beds is independently removable from the airflow filtration path and is independently adjustable to a plurality of positions along the airflow filtration path, wherein adjustment of the at least one adjustable sidewall of the first media bed alters the media bed volume of the first media bed.
US08409336B2	Air filter system An air filter system (10) has a filter housing (11), an air filter media (12), and an electrical circuit (13) electrically coupled to the media. The filter media consists of a pleated air filter material (23) with front pleat apexes (25) and rear pleat apexes (26) which are coated with an electrically conductive material to form front vertical strips (27) and rear strips (28). The electrical circuit includes a positive front electrical contact (30) and a rear electrical contact (31). The front electrical contact has a rear surface (30′) in electrical contact with an elongated front electrical contact bar (33), oriented horizontally across and in electrical contact with the filter front strips of conductive ink. Similarly, the rear electrical contact has a front surface (31′) in electrical contact with an elongated rear electrical contact bar (34), oriented horizontally across and in electrical contact with the rear strips of conductive ink.
US08409330B2	Enhanced adsorbents and methods for mercury removal A flue gas adsorbent and method for making an adsorbent for mercury capture are disclosed. The adsorbent comprises an admixture of an adsorptive material and an additive that have been physically combined thereby eliminating the need for traditional impregnation. A method for removing mercury from a flue gas stream is also disclosed.
US08409327B2	Control of grounded surface geometry in electrostatically enhanced fabric filters An electrostatic filter assembly configured to be installed in equipment for removing particulate matter entrained within a gas stream. The filter assembly functions in the removal and collection of the particulate matter from the gas stream. The equipment for removing particulate matter includes a high voltage discharge electrode for imparting an electric charge to the particulate matter whereby an electrical field is produced at the filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a filter element and a supporting structure for the filter element. The supporting structure is configured to establish at the filter assembly, under the operating conditions of the equipment for removing particulate matter, an electrical field having an intensity that produces no more than a selected amount of degradation at the filter element during operation of the equipment for removing particulate matter. Also a method of manufacturing such an electrostatic filter assembly.
US08409325B2	Asymmetric gas separation membrane and process for gas separation There is disclosed an asymmetric gas separation membrane exhibiting both improved gas separation performance and improved mechanical properties, which is made of a soluble aromatic polyimide comprised of a repeating unit represented by general formula (1): wherein B in general formula (1) B comprises 10 to 70 mol % of tetravalent unit B1 represented by general formula (B1) and 90 to 30 mol % of tetravalent unit B2 represented by general formula (B2), and A in general formula (1) comprises 10 to 50 mol % of bivalent unit A1 represented by general formula (A1a) or the like and 90 to 30 mol % of bivalent unit A2 represented by general formula (A2a) or the like.
US08409324B1	Sweep gas for membrane-based dehydration modules An air dehydration membrane module is provided with a sweep gas which is taken from the waste gas of a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) unit. No additional compressor is required, other than the compressor forming part of the PSA unit. In another embodiment, the sweep gas includes the combination of dried product gas, taken from the dehydration membrane module, and a supplemental gas, which may be ambient air, or permeate gas from an air separation membrane, or waste gas from a PSA unit. An air ejector combines the streams, without the use of an additional compression step, and the combined gas is used as a sweep stream for the dehydration module. The invention also includes the method of selecting an optimum point at which the sweep gas is injected into the module.
US08409321B2	Method and apparatus for leaching metal from mining ore Porous leach pipe and method for leaching metals from mining ores. The porous pipe may be buried beneath the surface of a pile of mined ore, providing a more even and uniform distribution of the leaching solution across the pile, increasing metal yields, reducing water consumption and eliminating pooling and ponding of the solution on the top of the piles as occurs with prior art drip line emitters.
US08409319B2	Silicon purification method A silicon purification method includes a solidification purification step comprising: preparing the base material to be purified, loading the base material into a crucible, irradiating part of the base material, and fully melting the base material; gradually solidifying the base material by gradually weakening an electron beam so that the solidification proceeds until the solidifying portion occupies a first predetermined ratio of the base material; loading the remnant of the base material into the crucible, and fully melting the remnant of the base material by irradiating the entire area of the remnant of the base material with the electron beam; gradually solidifying the molten metal portion by gradually weakening the electron beam so that the solidification proceeds until the solidifying portion occupies a second predetermined ratio of the molten metal portion; and removing an unsolidified molten metal portion.
US08409318B2	Process and apparatus for forming wire from powder materials A process and apparatus for forming wires, such as wires used as feedstock in welding, brazing, and coating deposition processes. The process and apparatus generally entail feeding through a passage a quantity of powder particles of a size and composition that render the particles susceptible to microwave radiation. As the particles travel through the passage, the particles within the passage are subjected to microwave radiation so that the particles couple with the microwave radiation and are sufficiently heated to melt at least a radially outermost quantity of particles within the passage. The particles are then cooled so that the radially outermost quantity of particles solidifies to yield a wire having a consolidated outermost region surrounding an interior region of the wire.
US08409317B2	Filter assembly with housing structure A filter assembly for filtering fluids includes a housing having a base and a cover having guide structure for assembly. The guide structure may also provide gasket retention.
US08409315B2	Muffler A muffler is provided that air or gas flows through to attenuate acoustic oscillations and reduce sound levels. An inner vortex and an outer vortex are created within the device that reduce noise within the rotating flow of gases. The gases flow in the outer vortex from an inlet in a live end of the housing toward a dead end of the housing. A projection is provided in the dead end of the housing that creates a low pressure area that causes the formation of the inner vortex flowing from the dead end toward the live end to an outlet.
US08409314B2	PSA filter The PSA Filter is a non-electronic air filter utilized in the interior or exterior of any device which uses air movement as a means of ventilation or circulation including, but not limited to a computer, printer or any other type of electronic or non-electronic devices. This invention consists of a base substrate which is covered with a PSA (pressure sensitive adhesive); such that the PSA material applied to the substrate is the active filtering element, this PSA coated substrate is inserted into or on a device for the purpose of trapping dirt, dust, pollen, fibers, and any additional types of air borne contaminants, that may inadvertently enter from the outside environment through factory installed vents, or that may be created inside of the device from its normal operations, thus said contaminants become trapped onto the PSA filter surface through air-circulation.
US08409305B2	Pretreatment method for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanostructures from coal and carbon chars Carbon nanostructures such as multiwalled carbon nanotubes are formed from electrolyzed coal char. The electrolyzed coal char is formed by forming a slurry of coal particles, metal catalyst and water and subjecting this to electrolysis, which generates carbon dioxide and hydrogen. This forms a coating on the particles which includes metal catalysts. These particles can be used as is for formation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes using a pyrolysis method or other method without the addition of any catalyst. The gelatinous coating can be separated from the char and used as a fuel or as a carbon source to form carbon nanostructures.
US08409300B2	Disperse azo dyes Novel disperse azo dyes of formula (I), and processes for preparation thereof. These dyes possess superior washing fastness, sublimation fastness and light fastness.
US08409297B2	Robotic prosthesis alignment device and alignment surrogate device A robotic prosthesis alignment device is disclosed that may automatically move the alignment of a prosthesis socket in relation to a prosthesis shank. The robotic prosthesis alignment device provides automatic translation in two axes. The robotic prosthesis alignment device includes angulation mechanics that automatically provide for plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion of the foot and shank with respect to the prosthesis socket. A surrogate device is also disclosed that can replicate the alignment achieved with the robotic prosthesis alignment device.
US08409295B2	Method and apparatus for replacing a femoral component of a hip joint A prosthesis comprising an elongated stem for disposition within a cavity formed in a bone, the stem comprising a longitudinal axis and being configured for incremental controlled expansion laterally of the longitudinal axis, whereby to secure the prosthesis within the cavity by means of a press-fit with the surrounding bone.
US08409288B2	Transforaminal intersomatic cage for an intervertebral fusion graft and an instrument for implanting the cage This present invention concerns a transforaminal intersomatic cage for an intervertebral fusion graft, and an instrument and method for implanting the cage, an embodiment of the cage having a body in the shape of a circular arc and comprising a lateral concave surface, a lateral convex surface, a straight upper surface, a straight lower surface and an end wall having at least one hole, called the end hole, designed to receive a rod of an instrument for implanting the cage between the vertebrae, wherein: the end hole has an orientation that is more or less tangential to the circular arc described by the body; the extremity opposite to the end wall of the body includes a return part extending the body toward the center of the circle on which the circular arc described by the body lies.
US08409287B2	Intervertebral prosthetic systems, devices, and associated methods Intervertebral prosthetic systems, devices, and associated methods are provided. The present disclosure provides top and bottom endplates that engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies for stability and incorporate a compliant core, ball-and-socket core, fusion-cage core, or any other suitable type of motion-preserving or fusion cores. The endplate designs allow insertion through a unilateral approach yet still have engagement on both sides of the vertebral body to provide stability and reduce the risk of subsidence. In some instances, saddle style endplates are inserted and then rotated to engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies. In other instances, hinged style endplates are inserted in a first orientation and then at least one end portion is pivoted to a second orientation so that the endplates engage the lateral walls of the vertebral bodies.
US08409283B2	Vertebral implant end cap An implant and method for insertion between adjacent vertebral members. The implant comprising an implant body with a base section having a plurality of base extensions, and an end cap adapted for selective axial positioning at a selected point on the base section and subsequent rotational adjustment about an implant axis. The end cap also comprising a fixed aperture and a variable aperture, both configured to receive and lockingly engage corresponding base extensions to securely maintain the end cap positioned on the base section. The fixed and variable passages are configured and located to permit rotational end cap adjustment. The implant imparts end cap height and angulation to an adjacent vertebral body at the selected or desired point when the implant is positioned and lockingly engaged in the intervertebral space.
US08409280B2	Breast prosthesis The present invention relates to a breast prosthesis having at least one contact surface which is intended for contact on a body surface, with the contact surface having at least one means by means of which air circulation and/or an exchange of air can be achieved between the contact surface and the body surface.
US08409278B2	External lens with flexible membranes for automatic correction of the refractive errors of a person The system is able to correct the spherical and cylindrical power as well as other aberrations of the optical pathway of both eyes of a person eliminating the need for multiple heavy glass lenses and mirrors. For correcting the refractive errors, the above described system is equipped with a diachroic mirror interposed in front of the system, to divert part of the light reflecting from the pupil to a Shack-Hartman wave front sensor.
US08409275B2	Prosthetic tissue valve A prosthetic tissue valve for aortic, pulmonary, mitral or tricuspid valve replacement is described herein. A sewing ring for use with the prosthetic tissue valve is also described. The valve can have a circumference that is a predetermined distance larger than the circumference of an annulus in a defective valve. The valve can be substantially planar in an unstressed position before attachment at the annulus and substantially non-planar upon attachment in a biased position at the annulus. Methods are provided for placing the valve as described herein in the biased position within the annulus of the defective valve.
US08409272B2	Sustained drug-releasing stent A stent includes a stent body of a cylindrical configuration having outer and inner surfaces, a first coated layer coating at least the outer surface, and a second coated layer coating substantially completely over the first coated layer. The first coated layer is prepared of a first composition comprising a polymer and a vascular intimal hyperplasia inhibitor (preferably argatroban) of a kind, which does not inhibit proliferation of endothelial cells, the weight compositional ratio of the polymer to the inhibitor being within the range of 8:2 to 3:7. On the other hand, the second coated layer is prepared of a polymer alone or a second composition comprising a polymer and a drug, the weight compositional ratio of the drug to 80% by weight of the polymer being less than 20% by weight.
US08409271B2	Stent having a locking part which prevents the strut from sliding out of the junction pipe A stent has a stent main wire. The strut is disposed adjacent to the stent main wire and a junction pipe disposed around the stent main wire and strut so as to affix the stent main wire to the strut. A locking part is formed at an end of the strut to prevent the strut from sliding out of the junction pipe. The locking part comprises a folded back portion, wherein a distal most end of the folded back portion abuts with a distal most end of the junction pipe, a swelling portion, wherein a distal most end of the swelling portion is abutting a distal most end of the junction pipe, or a bent portion, wherein a distal most end of the bent portion is abutting with a distal most end of the junction pipe.
US08409270B2	Radiopaque compositions, stents and methods of preparation The invention relates to an implantable radiopaque stent adapted to be disposed in a body lumen. In one aspect of the invention, a plurality of elongate filaments including one or more radiopaque filaments are arranged to form a hollow tubular structure having a tubular wall that defines an inner surface and an outer surface and opposing first open end and second open end. One of the open ends of the stent is formed by an intersection of adjacent filament ends. A radiopaque compound is applied to the intersection, the radiopaque compound comprising radiopaque material and polymeric material. The radiopaque compound and radiopaque filament provide improved external imaging of the tubular structure on imaging equipment.
US08409269B2	Procedures for vascular occlusion A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm includes: injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel including an aneurysm; deploying an occlusion device across the aneurysm; producing an image of the aneurysm including the contrast agent; and withdrawing the delivery device from the vessel after observing that the aneurysm has been obstructed by a desired amount. The image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. Observing that the aneurysm has been obstructed may include determining a degree of obstruction, for example by comparing an area or volume of the contrast agent in a first image and a second image. The desired amount may be a certain degree of obstruction, identification of a shape indicative of stasis such as a flat surface, an approximate hemisphere, a mushroom, or a crescent. If the occlusion device does not achieve the desired amount, a second occluding device may be deployed.
US08409268B2	Electrical conduction block implant device The present invention provides an electrical block implant sized and shaped for securement at the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium of the left atrium. By utilizing various expandable ring designs and optional anchoring mechanisms, the present invention causes even, circular scarring around the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium, achieving reliable blocking of aberrant electrical signals responsible for atrial fibrillation.
US08409263B2	Methods to regulate polarization of excitable cells Minimally invasive delivery with intercellular and/or intracellular localization of nano- and micro-particle solar cells within and among excitable biological cells to controllably regulate membrane polarization of such cells. The cells include retinal and other sensory cells, muscle cells, and nerve cells.
US08409262B2	Composition used for increasing calmodulin and method thereof The present invention provides a composition used for increasing calmodulin and a method thereof. A far-infrared ray is released by a far-infrared releasing substance in the composition so as to induce intracellular calmodulin concentration increased in organisms. The far-infrared releasing substance consists of ceramic minerals and mainly comprises 80-99.9 wt % of oxide minerals including 60-95 wt % of the mineral alumina. The far-infrared releasing substance according to the present invention has the advantages of easy to carry and continuously working, so as to significantly improve the shortcoming of drugs with short-term acting.
US08409260B2	Bone screw A bone screw having a screw member possessing a threaded section and a head and a receiving part at the head end for receiving a rod to be connected to the bone screw is provided. The receiving part has on open first bore and a substantially U-shaped cross-section having two free legs provided with a thread. Furthermore, the receiving part has a second bore on the end opposite to the first bore whose diameter is greater than that of the threaded section and smaller than that of the head. On the bottom of the first bore a seat for the head is provided. In order that the screw member can be pivoted to at least one side by an enlarged angle, the edge bounding the free end of the second bore viewed relative to the axis of the first bore is of asymmetric construction.
US08409257B2	Systems and methods for facet joint stabilization In one form, a method for stabilization of a facet joint of the spinal column includes forming a cavity between adjacent bones defining the facet joint and positioning an implant in the cavity between the adjacent bones. In one aspect of this form, the method also includes positioning a bone anchor across the facet joint and engaging the bone anchor with each of the adjacent bones to force the bones toward one another and clamp the implant therebetween. In a further aspect of this form, the implant is a cancellous bone dowel and becomes fractured into a plurality of fragments upon being clamped between the adjacent bones and/or otherwise interacting with the bone anchor. In another form, systems and devices for performing percutaneous facet joint stabilization and/or fusion are provided. However, different forms and applications are also envisioned.
US08409253B2	Soft tissue repair assembly and associated method A soft tissue repair assembly. The assembly includes a flexible member having first and second ends, and a strand passing through the flexible member. The strand has first and second strand ends extending through the flexible member, such that pulling at least one of the first and second strand ends changes the flexible member from a first shape suitable for insertion through soft tissue to a second shape suitable for securely lodging the soft tissue repair assembly relative to soft tissue.
US08409250B2	Meniscal repair system and method A system and surgical methods for repairing tears in meniscal tissue using meniscal darts. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes a cannulated insertion sheath, a meniscal dart, and a disposable dart driver preloaded with a meniscal dart at its distal end. The insertion sheath is located near a meniscal tear, and sharp prongs on the tip of the sheath are used to secure and position the central fragment of the torn meniscus. The dart driver with a preloaded dart is advanced through the cannulation of the insertion sheath such that the preloaded meniscal dart at the distal end of the driver is inserted through the meniscal tear.
US08409246B2	Apparatus for performing an electrosurgical procedure An endoscopic forceps is provided and includes a housing having a shaft. An end effector assembly operatively connects to a distal end of the shaft and has a pair of first and second jaw members. One of the first and second jaw members is movable relative to the other jaw member from an open position, to a clamping position. One of the first and second jaw members includes one or more cam slots defined therein and configured to receive a cam member that upon movement thereof rotates the movable jaw member from the open position to the clamping position. A resilient member is operably coupled to the jaw member that includes the one or more cam slots. The resilient member is configured to provide a camming force to the cam slot and to bias the first and second jaw members in the clamping position.
US08409244B2	Tool with end effector force limiter The invention provides surgical or diagnostic tools and associated methods that offer user control for operating remotely within regions of the body: In some embodiments these tools include a proximally-located actuator for the operation of a distal end effector, as well as proximally-located actuators for articulational and rotational movements of the end effector. Control mechanisms and methods refine operator control of end effector actuation and of these articulational and rotational movements. A force limiter mechanism protects the end effector and manipulated objects from the harm of potentially excessive force applied by the operator. A multi-state ratchet for end effector actuation provides enablement-disablement options with tactile feedback. An articulation lock allows the fixing and releasing of both neutral and articulated configurations of the tool and of consequent placement of the end effector. A rotation lock provides for enablement and disablement of rotatability of the end effector.
US08409243B2	Endoscopic apparatus and method The present invention is directed to a medical device, such as an endoscopic device, configured to be loaded into a channel of an endoscope prior to insertion of the endoscope into a body, and a method of performing an operative procedure with an endoscopic device. The endoscopic device comprises an elongate member for insertion into the channel of the endoscope, wherein a length of the elongate member is greater than a length of the channel of the endoscope. The endoscopic device also comprises a distal assembly connected to a distal portion of the elongate member and operable to perform an endoscopic operation, wherein the distal assembly has an open configuration and a closed configuration with a profile larger than a diameter of the channel of the endoscope, wherein the distal assembly is adapted to be exterior to the channel when the endoscope is inserted into the body.
US08409238B2	Mini cams on support loop for vessel stabilization Embolic protection filtering devices and methods for making and using the same. An example filtering device includes a filter wire, a filter including a filter loop coupled to the filter wire, and a filter membrane coupled to the filter loop. A plurality of cam members may be coupled to the filter loop. Alternatively, the filter loop may include a plurality of strut members coupled thereto. The cam members and/or the strut members may help to stabilize the longitudinal position of the filtering device within a body lumen.
US08409235B2	Rotary cutting tool with improved cutting and reduced clogging on soft tissue and thin bone A surgical cutting instrument including two coaxially arranged tubular members. The first tubular member has a cutting tip and is co-axially disposed within the second tubular member, which in turn has a cutting window to expose the cutting tip to tissue and bone through the cutting window. Movement of the tubular members with respect to each other debrides soft tissue and thin bone presented to the cutting window. The second (outer) tubular member has one or more features which contribute to reduced clogging of the cutting tip as a whole.
US08409234B2	Rotational apparatus system and method for a robotic instrument system Robotic instrument systems, apparatus, and methods for controllably rotating a tool or adapter coupled to a distal portion of a medical instrument such as a catheter. An interface, which may be integral with the medical instrument or a component of a separate rotatable apparatus or adapter, is operably coupled, e.g. fixedly coupled, to the distal end of the instrument. A tool, such as a rotatable portion of a collar or tool base, or a working instrument operably coupled thereto, is rotatable relative to the interface. The interface and collar have guide channels. A control element extends through the medical instrument and respective guide channels such that the tool or collar is controllably rotatable about the instrument axis by axial movement of the control element relative to the instrument.
US08409231B2	Scalpel handle The present invention relates to a contoured scalpel handle. The contoured shape of the handle provides for increased contact area with the user's hand using a larger diameter central portion and a smaller diameter trough. The generally circular cross-section allows rotation of the angle of the blade relative to the tissue without the need to change the grip on the handle. The contoured handle can be used as an adapter sleeve in which a scalpel handle can be inserted or can include a blade mounting element on which a blade is directly mounted.
US08409230B2	Method and apparatus for performing arthroscopic microfracture surgery A microfracture instrument for applying microfracture therapy to a bone, the microfracture instrument comprising: an elongated shaft comprising a distal end and a proximal end; a needle comprising a body terminating in at least one sharp point, the needle being movably mounted to the distal end of the shaft for movement between an extended position for engaging the bone with the at least one sharp point of the needle and a retracted position for withdrawing the at least one sharp point of the needle from the bone; and a drive shaft movably mounted to the elongated shaft, the drive shaft being connected to the body of the needle so that movement of the drive shaft relative to the elongated shaft moves the needle between its extended position and its retracted position.
US08409224B2	Suturing graft tubes to lumen walls percutaneously A graft tube is percutaneously placed inside the lumen of a vessel and attached to the lumen wall by loops of suture material. The plurality of short sutures are made in the shape of a loop with a sharp and a blunt end then forced into a plurality of first tunnels located in sections of circular cuffs that are attached to graft tube ends. The short sutures are pushed out the first tunnel by push rods and curve back to their original shape through the adjacent lumen wall and into a plurality of second tunnels where the short sutures are lodged.
US08409220B2	Flexible endoscopic surgical instrument for invagination and fundoplication An endoscopic surgical instrument includes a flexible tube, a grasping and fastening end effector coupled to the distal end of the tube, and a manual actuator coupled to the proximal end of the tube. The manual actuator is coupled to the end effector by a plurality of flexible cables which extend through the tube. The tube contains a lumen for receiving a manipulable endoscope and the end effector includes a passage for the distal end of the endoscope. The end effector has a store for a plurality of male fastener parts, a store for a plurality of female fastener parts, a rotatable grasper, a rotatable fastener head for aligning a female fastener part and a male fastener part with tissues therebetween, and a firing member for pressing a male fastener part through tissues grasped by the grasper and into a female fastener part. According to a presently preferred embodiment, the overall diameters of the flexible tube and the end effector (when rotated to the open position) do not exceed approximately 20 mm so that the instrument may be delivered transorally to the fundus of the stomach. The manual actuator is provided with a lock-out feature which prevents firing male fastener parts before the fastener head is closed. The instrument is advantageously utilized in a fundoplication procedure.
US08409214B2	Portable regulated vacuum pump for medical procedures In various embodiments of the invention, an electro-vacuum pump can be used either as a stand alone unit to create, monitor and control a vacuum or to maintain, assist or as a back up for a hand operated pump in a variety of surgical procedures. The vacuum pump is controlled by a processor and is automatically activated when the vacuum is below a pre-selected parameter or a parameter selected on the fly by the surgeon. Visual or audio feedback is used to allow the surgeon increased control of the vacuum device while carrying out the surgical procedure.
US08409209B2	Method and apparatus for performing an open wedge, high tibial osteotomy An osteotomy implant for disposition in a wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in a bone, the implant comprising a body for disposition within the wedge-shaped osteotomy opening in the bone and supporting the bone while healing occurs; at least one key formed integral with the body for stabilizing the body relative to the adjacent bone while healing occurs; and at least one fenestration extending through the body for permitting bone growth through the implant.
US08409208B2	Device and method to access the anterior column of the spine Methods and devices are configured to permit a surgeon to access the anterior column of the spine without significant manipulation of intervening nerve elements.
US08409205B2	Fixation device for intramedullary nail A fixation device for an intramedullary nail for proximal femoral fractures, including a main intramedullary nail, a combined locking nail, and cortical bone screws. The main intramedullary nail has a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end with a tip. The proximal end includes a through hole for assembling the combined locking nail. The distal end includes an oblong through hole and a circular through hole, both for receiving the cortical bone screws. The combined locking nail includes a head, a distal end of the locking nail, a sleeve, a connecting block, and a cover cap. The connecting block includes a left-handed external thread. The cover cap includes a left-handed internal thread matching with the external thread of the connecting block, a symmetrical sliding plane, and a protrusion block disposed at the end of the symmetrical sliding plane.
US08409203B2	Implantable medical implants having fasteners A surgical fastening system for implantable devices such as injection port systems. The implantable device may contain a plurality of fasteners in pre-deployment position, may have a housing fitted over or around it which contains a plurality of fasteners in pre-deployment position, or may be a part of a two-part system into which it fits. Accordingly, the present invention also encompasses a deployment system or tool that optionally positions the implantable device, and which causes the fasteners to move into post-deployment position. The fasteners may be staples, metal loops, coils, springs or hooks formed of biocompatible materials, including shape memory alloys such as NiTi.
US08409201B2	Percutaneous patellar osteosynthesis system applicable to dislocated patella fractures The present invention relates to a percutaneous patellar osteosynthesis system applicable to any type of fracture of the knee cap, formed by two arms that contain two multidirectional movable securing devices for fitting to any type of knee cap, in which the arms close in a parallel manner by means of a scissors closure mechanism in order to keep the fragments confined and secured by means of a “zipper” based on manual compression. The devices for securing the knee cap have antero-posterior, up/down and also lateral mobility in order to mobilize the fractured fragments and to achieve a reduction and a satisfactory knee cap joint congruence. The arms have slidable guides for placing the implant in any required direction in order to keep the fragments stable, the guides slide on the arms and the parallelism sought in this type of fixing is achieved without having to be based on manual calculation, the latter customarily being used in broad tissue dissection. The system achieves reduction and internal fixing by means of a minimally invasive technique and less tissue damage. The system also has guides for fitting cerclage wiring on an implant of any configuration, facilitating reduction and fixing of patellar fractures and the taking of X-rays with the system in place.
US08409198B2	Clamp based methods and apparatus for forming lesions in tissue and confirming whether a therapeutic lesion has been formed Surgical systems, devices and methods including one or more tissue stimulation elements that, in some instances, may also be used for sensing purposes. Some of the surgical devices also include a tissue coagulation element.
US08409197B2	Methods of cutting tissue using a medical instrument In an embodiment, a method for cutting tissue comprising inserting at least a portion of a medical instrument into a body; and cutting tissue of the body with first and second blades of the medical instrument, wherein the first blade includes: a first member having a shearing surface; an electrically insulative member supported by the first member; and a conductive member adjacent to the electrically insulative member and electrically insulated from the first member by the electrically insulative member.
US08409192B2	Controlling coagulum formation Some embodiments of a medical instrument can be configured to reduce the formation of coagulum by delivering a negative charge bias to conductive surfaces that interface with blood or bodily tissue during a medical procedure. The application of the negative charge at the instrument-blood interface can reduce the fibrinogen deposition and the formation of coagulum because fibrinogen molecules in general are negatively charged at neutral pH levels. In addition, some embodiments of the instrument may be configured to irrigate the instrument-blood interface with RGD/ClfA peptides, a bicarbonate solution (or other high pH solution), or both to further repel the fibrinogen and thereby inhibit the formation of coagulum. Accordingly, some embodiments of the medical instrument can substantially reduce the risks of thromboembolism during particular medical procedures.
US08409188B2	Ablation devices with adjustable radiating section lengths, electrosurgical systems including same, and methods of adjusting ablation fields using same An energy applicator for directing energy to tissue includes a feedline and a radiating section operably coupled to the feedline, wherein the radiating section has a length. The energy applicator also includes a length adjustment member adapted to allow for selective adjustment of the length of the radiating section.
US08409186B2	Crest factor enhancement in electrosurgical generators The present disclosure relates to an electrosurgical generator which includes a controller configured to generate a first pulse train having at least one first control pulse and at least one first reset pulse. The controller also includes a second pulse train having at least one second control pulse and at least one second reset pulse. The first control pulse(s) and the second control pulse(s) are asynchronous and the reset pulse(s) are synchronous. The electrosurgical generator also includes an RF output stage which includes a first switching element and a second switching element. The control pulses are configured to activate the first switching element and second switching elements, respectively, in an asynchronous fashion to generate a non-continuous RF waveform.
US08409182B2	Laser-assisted thermal separation of tissue A laser-assisted method for fully or partially separating tissue such as collagen-containing tissue is provided. In one embodiment, the method pertains to a capsolurorhexis whereby the laser-assisted method is applied to the lens capsule. A light-absorbing agent is added into or onto the tissue. A light beam with a wavelength capable of being absorbed by the light absorbing agent is then directed at the tissue to cause a thermal effect at the tissue following a predetermined closed curve with the goal to avoid irregularity or potential tears in the resulting rim of the tissue.
US08409178B2	Systems and methods for evaluating treatment tables for refractive surgery Treatment table verification techniques involve comparing intended refraction information with expected optical refraction information, and validating or qualifying the treatment table based on such comparisons. Systems and methods for verifying treatment tables provide enhanced safety for laser vision correction treatments.
US08409176B2	Method and device for laser lithotripsy A system/method for destruction/ablation of stones, calculi or other hard substances using laser is disclosed. Lithotripsy is particularly benefitted. The system comprises a diode laser source, one or more optical fibers and a liquid delivery system creating a liquid environment around stones (calculi). At least one emitted wavelength is highly absorbed in surrounding/covering medium, causing evaporation and cavitation effects that lead to stone/calculi destruction. Different radiation configurations may be used. in one embodiment continuous radiation is used to create sparkler-less plasma bubbles to destroy hard substances. In another embodiment high peak power pulsed radiation is used. Wavelengths of 1470 nm, 1940 nm, or 1550 nm are preferred. Additionally device/method is used with another wavelength having absorption in water e.g. 980 nm. Safer/improved methods/system provide enhanced lithotripsy treatments with shorter treatment times to destroy a wider range of stones with less tissue damage risk.
US08409173B2	Holding device for medical purposes The invention relates to a holding device for medical purposes having a carrier arm on whose distal end at least one medical instrument can be secured and having at least one joint for positioning the carrier arm and/or the medical instrument, wherein the at least one joint can be transferred between a position that releases the joint and a position that blocks the joint and wherein the at least one joint is coupled with a touch sensor for actuating the joint. To produce a holding device for medical purposes that ensures simple construction, simple handling, and reliable positionability, it is proposed with the invention that the sensor should be coupled with the medical instrument mounted on the distal end of the carrier arm.
US08409172B2	Systems and methods for performing minimally invasive procedures A robotic surgical system includes an instrument driver and an instrument assembly operatively coupled to the instrument driver such that mechanisms of the instrument driver operate or control movement, operation, or both, of components of the instrument assembly. The instrument assembly components include an elongate flexible guide instrument, an optical light source, a camera and a working tool, wherein the light source, camera, and working tool are carried in one or more lumens of the guide instrument. An operator control station is operatively coupled to the instrument driver via a remote communication link. The instrument assembly further includes an inflatable visualization balloon carried on a distal end portion of the guide instrument, the light source and camera having distal ends located within an interior of the balloon, the balloon comprising a lumen extending from the guide instrument to a distal facing wall of the balloon, such that the working instrument may extend from a respective lumen of the guide instrument through the balloon lumen to contact body tissue when the distal end of the guide instrument is positioned in an interior body region.
US08409167B2	Devices for delivering substances through an extra-anatomic opening created in an airway Devices and methods for delivering substances to lung tissue through an extra-anatomic passage created in an airway.
US08409166B2	Method for pressure mediated selective delivery of therapeutic substances and cannula Methods and devices are disclosed for selective delivery of therapeutic substances to specific histologic or microanatomic areas of organs. Introduction of the therapeutic substance into a hollow organ space (such as an hepatobiliary duct or the gallbladder lumen) at a controlled pressure, volume or rate allows the substance to reach a predetermined cellular layer (such as the ephithelium or sub-epithelial space). The volume or flow rate of the substance can be controlled so that the intralumenal pressure reaches a predetermined threshold level beyond which subsequent subepithelial delivery of the substance occurs. Alternatively, a lower pressure is selected that does not exceed the threshold level, so that delivery occurs substantially only to the epithelial layer. Such site specific delivery of therapeutic agents permits localized delivery of substances (for example to the interstitial tissue of an organ) in concentrations that may otherwise produce systemic toxicity. Occlusion of venous or lymphatic drainage from the organ can also help prevent systemic administration of therapeutic substances, and increase selective delivery to superficial epithelial cellular layers. Delivery of genetic vectors can also be better targeted to cells where gene expression is desired. The access device comprises a cannula with a wall piercing tracar within the lumen. Two axially spaced inflatable balloons engage the wall securing the cannula and sealing the puncture site. A catheter equipped with an occlusion balloon is guided through the cannula to the location where the therapeutic substance is to be delivered.
US08409162B2	Absorbent articles with refastenable side seams and intuitive disposal feature A disposable absorbent article including a pair of first fasteners, at least a portion of each first fastener being situated inboard from each longitudinal side edge in the first waist region, each first fastener being adapted to engage at least a portion of the inner surface of the second waist region, each first fastener comprising a resilient material. The disposable absorbent article also includes a disposal fastener, at least a portion of the disposal fastener being situated inboard from the longitudinal side edge in the second waist region, the disposal fastener adapted to engage at least a portion of the outer surface, the disposal fastener comprising a resilient material.
US08409161B2	Remote sensing catheter system and methods A remote sensing catheter system including an injection catheter and a collection catheter. In one method of use, an external sensor of the system determines the timing of operation of the collection catheter. In another method of use, a sensor determines the volume of medium in the injection.
US08409159B2	Methods and devices for applying closed incision negative pressure wound therapy A surgical tissue therapy device includes a sealant layer and a collection chamber. The sealant layer functions so as to create a sealed enclosure, or space between it and the surface of a patient, by forming an airtight seal around a surgical area of skin trauma. The closed incision tissue therapy device also comprises a collection chamber, which may comprise an elongate tubular chamber with a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings. The collection chamber may be configured to be in fluid communication with the sealant layer and the area of skin trauma and functions as to distribute the negative pressure applied to a surgically closed area of skin trauma. Preferably, the pressure under the sealant layer is reduced by expanding the volume of the enclosure space and thereby decreasing the density of air molecules under the sealant layer. The collection material may comprise a material and/or a configuration that permits length changes based upon the length of the corresponding surgical wound or incision.
US08409157B2	Wound dressing with vacuum reservoir A wound dressing apparatus includes a wound dressing member dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed. The wound dressing member including an internal vacuum reservoir and has a port in communication with the vacuum reservoir for applying subatmospheric pressure to the vacuum reservoir to facilitate removal of fluid from the wound bed. The wound dressing member includes a visual pressure indicator associated therewith for indicating a level of pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The visual pressure indicator includes color indicia having a plurality of colors corresponding to a condition of the pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The wound dressing member includes a lower absorbent member positionable adjacent the wound bed and an upper member which at least partially defines the vacuum reservoir. At least one of the top member and the lower absorbent member has the visual pressure indicator mounted thereto.
US08409151B2	Disposable infusion device filling apparatus and method An infusion system includes a disposable wearable infusion device and a filler device. The disposable infusion device has a body arranged to be adhered to a patient's skin and a reservoir for holding a liquid medicant to be infused into the patient. The filler device is arranged to detachably receive the infusion device body and to transfer a volume of the liquid medicant to the infusion device reservoir. The filler device may be part of a service device arranged to detachably receive the infusion device and which also includes a cannula driver and a cannula for providing the infusion device with a cannula and deploying the cannula to beneath a patient's skin.
US08409143B2	Infusion pump assembly An infusion pump assembly is disclosed. The infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw.
US08409142B2	Operating an infusion pump system Some embodiments of a medical infusion pump system include a pump device having a cap device that mates with a pump housing to retain a medicine cartridge therein. In addition to retaining the medicine cartridge in the pump housing, the cap device may perform a number of preparatory functions or safety functions. In addition or in the alternative, some embodiments of the pump device may include a drive system that advances a piston rod to dispense medicine to the patient in a safe and energy efficient manner.
US08409141B2	Auto injector with automatic needle retraction The present application relates to a disposable auto injector (10) that can be safely operated for automatic injection of a dose of medication and having a housing (12) for accommodation of a syringe (18) with a needle (20), the syringe being movably positioned in the housing between a first position in which position the needle is accommodated inside the housing and a second position in which position the needle protrudes outside the housing (22), a driver configured for applying a force to the syringe thereby moving the syringe from the first position to the second position, and wherein the driver is also configured for applying a force to the syringe thereby moving the syringe from the second position to a retracted position in which position the needle is accommodated inside the housing upon user operation of a release member (42).
US08409138B2	Delay mechanism for automatic injection device A delay mechanism for staging the operation of an automatic injection apparatus (20) to ensure medication contents are properly delivered prior to the needled syringe (32) of the apparatus being retracted. In one form, the delay mechanism includes a shuttle (50), a follower (110), a locking member, a damping compound, and a driver and a driver biasing element (44). The shuttle is for a needled syringe of the apparatus and includes a first latching element. The follower includes a second latching element and a cammable surface, which second latching element is for cooperating with the first latching element to limit motion of the shuttle relative to the follower in a second direction opposite the first direction. The locking member is movable from a locking position to a release position by engagement with the syringe plunger during an injection, the locking member, when in the locking position, preventing rotation of the follower relative to the shuttle, the locking member, when in the release position, allowing rotation of the follower relative to the shuttle. The damping compound is between the follower and a supporting surface to dampen rotation of the follower relative to the shuttle. The driver is rotatably fixed relative to the shuttle and includes a camming surface. The shuttle allowing retracting of the syringe needle into the housing of the automatic injection apparatus after injection.
US08409136B2	Robotic catheter system A robotic catheter system includes a controller with a master input device. An instrument driver is in communication with the controller and has a guide instrument interface including a plurality of guide instrument drive elements responsive to control signals generated, at least in part, by the master input device. An elongate guide instrument has a base, distal end, and a working lumen, wherein the guide instrument base is operatively coupled to the guide instrument interface. The guide instrument includes a plurality of guide instrument control elements operatively coupled to respective guide drive elements and secured to the distal end of the guide instrument. The guide instrument control elements are axially moveable relative to the guide instrument such that movement of the guide instrument distal end may be controlled by the master input device.
US08409134B2	Power injector having calibrated pressure monitoring functionality Control logic (110) for a power injector is disclosed, where this power injector control logic (110) includes a syringe fill protocol (114), a pressure calibration protocol (116), a pressure monitoring protocol (118), and an injection protocol (120). The power injector control logic (110) is configured to execute the pressure calibration protocol (116) on each execution of the syringe fill protocol (114). The pressure calibration protocol (116) updates the pressure monitoring protocol (118), which is executed during execution of the injection protocol (120).
US08409133B2	Drug delivery device with sensor for closed-loop operation An apparatus and a system for controlling and/or managing administration of a drug to a body of a patient. The apparatus includes a drug infusion device configured to deliver drug at a predetermined location in the body of the patient, at least one sensor disposed in the drug infusion device and configured to measure a. corresponding property related to the patient and selected from the group consisting of physiological properties, biochemical properties, environmental properties and drug-related properties, a controller disposed in the drug infusion device and configured to receive from the at least one sensor data representative of the measured corresponding property and based on the received data, determine a drug delivery rate. The drug delivery device is configured to deliver the drug to the body of the patient based on the determined drug delivery rate.
US08409127B2	Blood processing device and method for purging a set of blood lines on a blood processing device A method for emptying a blood tubing set of a blood treatment device that includes an extracorporeal blood circuit with a membrane filter includes supplying air or gas to the blood tubing set to displace liquid therein. The blood tubing set includes arterial and venous patient blood tubes in communication with a first chamber of the membrane filter. The device also includes a substituate line which opens into the arterial blood tube and/or into the venous blood tube, and a substituate pump. To empty the blood tubing set, the arterial blood tube and the venous blood tube are connected to one another to provide a circuit that includes the membrane filter, the arterial blood tube, and the venous blood tube. The substituate line is disconnected, and the air or gas is pumped into the blood tubing set so as to displace liquid into a second chamber of the membrane filter.
US08409126B2	Selective cytopheresis devices and related methods thereof The present invention relates to systems and devices to treat and/or prevent inflammatory conditions within a subject and to related methods. More particularly, the invention relates to systems, devices, and related methods that sequester leukocytes and/or platelets and then inhibit their inflammatory action.
US08409125B2	Adaptable perioperative cell-salvage system and methods and disposable units for same A blood-collection system configured to permit selection of either collection and disposal of shed blood from a patient or collection and processing of shed blood for autologous transfusion back to the patient includes an automated blood-processing machine. The system may also include a blood-collection reservoir, a separation chamber, and a fluid conduit. The blood-collection reservoir may be engageable with the blood-processing machine so that the machine can identify and report the presence of blood in the reservoir. The separation chamber may also be engageable with the blood processing machine. The fluid conduit may be configured to selectively join the reservoir to the separation chamber by a quick-connect coupling.
US08409122B2	Back orthosis and orthotic method A lumbar orthosis that includes first and second, separate, opposing and mating front attachment panels; and a separate, laterally adjustable, rigid lumbar compression piece configured for positioning only at the rear of a wearer, wherein pulling of a cord causes the brace both circumferentially to tighten and to concentrate compression and pressure of the separate, laterally adjustable, rigid lumbar compression piece directly and especially upon a spinal region of a wearer's back with the aid of a mechanical advantage dependant upon a number of apertures through which the cord or cords pass. An orthosis and method for correcting lumbar and thoracic back pain and disorders is also disclosed.
US08409119B2	Walking assistance device A walking assistance device including a pelvic frame (10) extending from a lower back to each lateral side of a user, and a belly belt (20) for securing the pelvic frame in position. A power generator (30) is attached to each lateral side of the pelvic frame. A power transmitting arm (40) can be attached to an output member (33) of the power generator simply by hooking an upper part of a base end (41) of the power transmitting arm onto an upper groove (38) of the output member, and pushing a latch member or a slider (46) provided in a lower part of the base end onto a lower groove (39) of the output member. The user wearing the pelvic frame (10) can easily attach the power transmitting arm (40) to the output end of the power generator (30) by easily using a single hand without requiring help.
US08409118B2	Upper arm wearable exoskeleton An exoskeleton having a first cuff adapted to be coupled to a user's lower limb is disclosed. The exoskeleton also includes a second cuff adapted to be coupled to the user's upper limb and a third cuff adapted to be coupled to the user's body. A first motor is mounted on the third cuff and has a first motor output coupled to the first cuff. A second motor is mounted on the third cuff and has a second motor output coupled to the second cuff. A processor is operatively coupled to the first and second motors to manipulate the first cuff and the second cuff relative to the third cuff such that the first cuff and the second cuff are able to move the user's lower limb and upper limb. A method of operating the exoskeleton is also disclosed.
US08409115B2	Body composition measuring apparatus A CPU (134) of a body composition measuring apparatus (100) drives a navel position indicator (118) so that it emits light. The height of a frame (114) is adjusted so that a beam of light from navel position indicator (118) irradiates the navel of a human subject. Plural sensors (106) are mounted on the frame (114), and each sensor measures a distance from the sensor to a position to be measured, whereby the abdominal width (X) of the human subject is determined. Subsequently, CPU (134) obtains measured values of weight (W) and bioelectrical impedance (Z). CPU (134) then reads an equation for calculating the visceral fat area and estimates the visceral fat area (Y) based on the measured abdominal width (X), weight (W), bioelectrical impedance (Z), and the equation.
US08409112B2	Specimen collection bag A specimen collection bag includes a flexible bag with a bottom end and a mouth end. A sleeve extends around at least a portion of a perimeter of the mouth end. The sleeve is adapted to receive the jaws of a grasping tool that are movable between a closed position and an open position. Opening the jaws causes the mouth end of the specimen collection bag to open and closing the jaws causes the mouth end of the specimen collection bag to close.
US08409110B2	Thermal monitoring A rectal thermal monitor for transrectal prostate temperature measurement includes a handle arranged in a proximal end portion of the monitor for gripping by a user, an elongate shaft extending from the handle, and a probe portion arranged on a distal end portion of the shaft. The probe portion is arranged at a position opposite the handle portion, and is shaped to facilitate insertion through an anal sphincter and into a rectum of a patient. A temperature sensing element is arranged within the distal probe portion and is adapted and configured to sense a temperature of the prostate of the patient through the rectum wall of the patient. The probe portion can include one or more compliant materials and/or be shaped so as to compress during insertion through the anal sphincter of the patient.
US08409108B2	Multi-axial heart sounds and murmur detection for hemodynamic-condition assessment A vector method for monitoring a subject's hemodynamic condition including (a) utilizing at least one, external or internal, anatomy-attached, three-axis accelerometer, collecting from the subject, during a selected cardiac cycle, related, three-orthogonal-axes accelerometer signal data, (b) following such collecting, processing collected signal data to obtain associated, signal vector, magnitude and directionality information, and (c) analyzing such obtained vector information for assessment of the subject's heart hemodynamic condition. ECG and signal time-frequency data is also collected and used in certain manners and implementations of the invention.
US08409107B2	Tachyarrhythmia detection and discrimination based on curvature parameters Estimating a frequency of a sampled cardiac rhythm signal and classifying the rhythm. The received signal is sampled and transformed into a curvature series. A lobe in the curvature series corresponds to a characteristic point in the sampled series. Characteristic points are selected based on a time of a lobe in the curvature series and, in one embodiment, an amplitude of the signal at the time of the lobe. A frequency of the sampled series is estimated by autocorrelating a function of the series of the characteristic points. In one embodiment, the function is a time difference function. The rhythm is classified by plotting the timewise proximity of characteristic points derived from an atrial signal with characteristic points derived from a ventricular signal. Regions of the plot are associated with a particular rhythm and the grouping of the data corresponds to the classification.
US08409106B2	Blood pressure measurement device for measuring blood pressure with clothes on A sphygmomanometer (1) stores a parameter for calculating a blood pressure value from a measurement value with clothes on from a measurement value with clothes off at a measurement site and the measurement value with clothes on in advance. When a with-clothes mode is selected with a button (3-4) in measuring the blood pressure, the blood pressure value is calculated using the parameter stored with respect to the measurement value.
US08409099B2	Focused ultrasound system for surrounding a body tissue mass and treatment method A focused ultrasound system includes an ultrasound transducer device forming an opening, and having a plurality of transducer elements positioned at least partially around the opening. A focused ultrasound system includes a structure having a first end for allowing an object to be inserted and a second end for allowing the object to exit, and a plurality of transducer elements coupled to the structure, the transducer elements located relative to each other in a formation that at least partially define an opening, wherein the transducer elements are configured to emit acoustic energy that converges at a focal zone.
US08409096B2	Breathing circuit with embedded acoustic reflectometer An instrument may continuously monitoring acoustic reflections from within and/or beyond an intubation tube positioned within the mouth of a patient while the patient is breathing. The instrument may include an acoustic reflectometer configured to detect the acoustic reflections. An acoustic flow channel may contain the acoustic reflectometer within it. The acoustic flow channel may be configured to acoustically couple the acoustic reflectometer to an end of the intubation tube, but to substantially block the free flow of expiratory gas from the end of the intubation tube through the acoustic flow channel. A gas flow channel may be separate from the acoustic flow channel and may be configured to allow the free flow of expiratory gas from the end of the intubation tube through the gas flow channel.
US08409093B2	Assessing measures of glycemic variability Methods, devices and systems for receiving an instruction to determine a glycemic variation level, retrieving a stored metric for determining the glycemic variation level, retrieving one or more parameters associated with the retrieved metric analysis, determining the glycemic variation level based on the retrieved one or more parameters for the retrieved metric analysis, and outputting the determined glycemic variation level when it is determined that the retrieved one or more parameters associated with the retrieved metric analysis meets a predetermined condition are disclosed.
US08409085B2	Surgical retention port and method of use A surgical retention port particularly useful as an arthroscopic port for shoulder surgery is provided. The surgical retention port has an inner cannula defining a throughbore, a plurality of rotatable fingers coupled to the inner cannula, and an outer cannula extending around the inner cannula. Rotation of the inner cannula relative to the outer cannula causes the rotation of the fingers from a first position where the fingers assume a collapsed configuration to a second position where the fingers assume an extended or open configuration.
US08409083B2	Surgical access methods for use with delicate tissues Surgical methods providing access to delicate tissue, such as brain tissue or breast tissue, through a transcutaneous incision. A method may include making an incision adjacent a region containing delicate tissue, and providing a surgical assembly having: a retractor having a hollow sleeve extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and an introducer having a proximal end installed within the hollow sleeve and a distal end extending beyond the distal retractor end. The surgical assembly is advanced into the region containing delicate tissue, and the distal introducer end gently displaces the delicate tissue as the surgical assembly is advanced to thereby avoid damage to the delicate tissue. The introducer is removed from the retractor to leave the distal retractor end at a surgical site located in the physical region containing delicate tissue. One or more surgical instruments are then used through the hollow sleeve.
US08409081B2	Illumination light application structure and endoscope provided with the same An illumination light application structure provided for irradiating an observation object with illumination light in an observation optical apparatus provided with an objective optical system inside a lens barrel whose top is configured into a slender shape, includes a wavelength converting element located in the proximity of a position of an entrance pupil of the objective optical system; a light source emitting light whose wavelength is converted by the wavelength converting element; and an irradiation device irradiating the wavelength converting element with the light emitted from the light source through the objective optical system.
US08409080B2	Remote endoscope handle manipulation Systems and methods permit remote endoscope handle manipulation. This can include a control housing configured to removably attach to an endoscope. A manipulator, associated with the housing, can be configured to engage with a control device of the endoscope with the endoscope attached to the housing. An actuator, drivingly coupled with the manipulator, can be configured to move the manipulator to operate the control device with the endoscope attached to the housing.
US08409078B2	Endoscope An endoscope includes: an insert portion having a bending portion for bending operation and a flexible soft portion connected to the proximal end of the bending portion; an inflatable/deflatable balloon attached on the proximal side from the bending portion; and a supplying/sucking opening provided in the outer surface of a ring that connects the bending portion to the soft portion, the supplying/sucking opening supplying and sucking fluid to and from the balloon.
US08409077B2	Capsule endoscope A capsule endoscope can prevent any fall of the efficiency of observation by reducing the substance or substances adhering to the outer surface of the front end cover such as food residue and mucus. The capsule endoscope includes a dome-shaped front end cover provided on the outer surface with photocatalytic coating, an image pickup means arranged in the front end cover to pick up images of the inside of an object of examination into which the endoscope is introduced and acquire image information on the inside of the object of examination and a lighting section arranged around the image pickup means within the dome-shaped front end cover.
US08409076B2	Device for laparoscopic or thoracoscopic surgery A device (10) for laparoscopic or thoracoscopic surgery, the device (10) comprising: a first member (20) to be moved across the body (5) of a patient; and a second member (30) to be placed within the body (5), the second member (30) comprising an image capturing device (32) to capture images from within the body (5) and to transmit the captured images for display; wherein the second member (30) is in magnetic engagement with the first member (20) such that the movement of the second member (30) within the body (5) is in response to movement of the first member (20) across the body (5).
US08409072B2	Infant care apparatus In an infant care apparatus according to this invention, the inner surface of an upper reflecting plate portion of a reflector forms a reflecting surface extending substantially parallel to the axial direction of a rod-like heat generator. A first angle at which a rear end of the reflecting surface as an end portion on a side opposite to the center of an infant mat, when seen from the top, of a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is bent downward with respect to a center in a back-and-forth direction of the reflecting surface, which is developed substantially flat, is larger than a second angle at which a front end of the reflecting surface as an end opposite to the rear end is bent downward with respect to the center of the reflecting surface. This invention can provide the infant care apparatus in which not only a heater need not be retracted to another location or need be only slightly when an infant on the mat is to undergo X-ray imaging of the like, but also in spite that the upper surface of the mat is substantially rectangular, the entire upper surface of the mat can be warmed substantially uniformly or almost uniformly.
US08409065B2	Bag manufacturing and packaging apparatus A bag manufacturing and packaging apparatus is adapted to form a strip film into a cylindrical film. The bag manufacturing and packaging apparatus includes a sealing unit with a pair of sealing members facing each other to seal an end portion of the cylindrical film therebetween to package an article. Each of the sealing members includes a sealing jaw, a heating unit, and a heat insulating member. The sealing jaw has a heat generating surface, and configured and arranged to seal the cylindrical film on the heat generating surface. The heating unit is configured and arranged to heat the heat generating surface of the sealing jaw. The heat insulating member insulates the heat conduction from the heating unit to a direction other than a direction toward the heat generating surface of the sealing jaw.
US08409064B2	Method and device for making boxes from a set of blanks This is a method and device for making a packaging box from two blanks (2, 3), wherein blanks are taken simultaneously from two adjacent stacks (25, 26) and placed on two parallel tracks (29, 30), the blanks are transferred flat until butted longitudinally to an assembly station, the first blank is glued on its way to the longitudinal abutment position, the first and second blanks are butted laterally into their respective positions to give them an exact lateral reference position, they are grasped, and transferred laterally, and the second blank is placed on the first blank which is thus indexed, escaping the drivers (61) of the first track (29) when the second blank is placed against the fast blank, but clamped by vertical pressure. The second blank is then applied to the first blank to glue them together in their respective defined longitudinal positions, and the resulting set of blanks is then transferred to an erecting station where the box is erected by rolling the blanks around a core.
US08409062B2	Machine tool A machine tool has, on a machine bed, two stands which can be moved in the horizontal x- and z-direction, on which y-slides carrying tool spindles can be vertically moved. Arranged on one of the stands directly above a bridge projecting over its upper side is at least one tool magazine, with which a tool changer is associated for each stand. The drives for the y-slides are attached below the upper side of the stands to the stands.
US08409061B2	Hand held exercising device that is assembled solidly An exercising device includes a main body having an elongate cord and a grip, and a weight unit adjustably mounted on the cord. The weight unit includes a connecting block mounted on the cord, and a weighting block mounted on the connecting block. The connecting block has a flexible tapered mounting post and has a mounting hole. The weighting block has a tapered pressing hole pressing the mounting post. Thus, the mounting hole of the connecting block encircles the cord completely so that when the mounting post is pressed toward the cord by the pressing hole of the weighting block, the connecting block compresses the cord tightly so as to lock the weight unit on the cord of the main body.
US08409059B2	Power assisted arm driven treadmill Systems and methods for a treadmill or similar exercise device which utilizes a principally arm driven belt, but includes a motor assist which provides for additional drive to the belt. The motor assist device may constructively or destructively interact with the user provided motive force via the arms. Generally, the motor will allow for the device to utilize incline as well as to make the device easier to start from rest.
US08409055B2	Powertrain thermal management system A thermal management system for a vehicle powertrain includes a heater core, a transmission fluid warmer selectively in thermal communication with the heater core, a bypass valve between the heater core and transmission fluid warmer configured to control fluid flow therebetween, a control module configured to control the bypass valve, and a timer linked to the control module configured to delay deactivation of the bypass valve.
US08409050B2	Gear retention assembly A gear retention assembly for retaining a gear that has a plurality of gear outer splines includes a gear housing and a retaining ring. The gear housing has a first end, a second end, and a plurality of inner splines each including a ramp portion. The second end of the gear housing includes an annular continuous rolled lip, where the continuous rolled lip and the ramp portions of the plurality of inner splines define a groove. The plurality of inner splines engage with the gear outer splines of the gear to transmit torque between the gear and the gear housing. The retaining ring is disposed in the groove and axially retains the gear. The rolled lip axially retains the retaining ring.
US08409046B2	Multi-speed transmission with external drive gearsets A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, two external gear sets or sprocket sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. Each of the external gear sets includes first and second members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
US08409040B1	Powertrain with two planetary gear sets and two motor/generators for hybrid vehicle A powertrain includes an input member, an output member, and a stationary member. A first and a second electric motor/generator are provided. Only two planetary gear sets are used, each having a respective first, second, and third member. An interconnecting member connects one of the members of a first one of the planetary gear sets to one of the members of a second one of the planetary gear sets. The input member, the output member, the first motor/generator and the second motor/generator are each continuously connected for common rotation with a different one of the members of the planetary gear sets that is not connected by the interconnecting member. Four brakes are each selectively engageable to ground a different respective one of the members of the planetary gear sets that is not connected by the interconnecting member to the stationary member.
US08409039B2	Dual stage clutch Continuously variable speed drive (CVT) have improved performance due to use of two groups of flyweight cams, each group being mounted on separate rotational members of a centrifugal clutch. One set of flyweight cams provides force to close the sheaves through the entire movement of the shift, whereas the other set of flyweight cams provides force only through an initial portion of the shift and then signs off. This provides a two stage shift behavior for the CVT that enhances power transfer to the driven pulley.
US08409028B2	Golf club head An iron-type golf club head is disclosed including a main body including a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a front portion, a rear portion, and a striking face. The main body has a recessed region including a relief region in the front portion. A replaceable striking plate is inserted into the recessed region and the relief region. The replaceable striking plate includes a front surface, a first rear surface region and a second rear surface region. A threaded opening is located on the rear surface of the replaceable striking plate and receives a fastener to retain the replaceable striking plate on the front portion of the main body and within the recessed region and relief region.
US08409026B2	Golf putter with trampoline-effect drumhead striking surface and pendulum plumb-bob peripheral weight distribution An improved design for a golf putter has a putter head with a back surface formed in an elliptical shape elongated along a transverse axis normal to a swing plane for the putter, enclosing a hollow interior and having a circumferential rim forming an elliptical frame for the putter head. A head striking surface is formed with a sheet of taut, resilient material secured to the elliptical frame providing a trampoline-like drumhead effect when it makes contact with a golf ball that tends to return the ball's rolling trajectory to the target line of the swing axis even if contact is made off-center. The putter body is an elongated tubular body oriented in the direction of the swing axis, so that the peripheral weight of the putter is aligned along the swing axis and creates a pendulum plumb-bob effect of weight moving under gravity aligned in the swing direction. The front end of the tubular body is fitted through a central aperture in the back surface of the putter head and abuts the taut, resilient sheet material to form a circular “sweet spot” on the head striking surface.
US08409022B2	Iron-type golf club head or other ball striking device A ball striking device, such as an iron-type golf club head, includes a face having a ball striking surface and a rear surface, and a body connected to the face. The body has a sole member and a rear cavity defined at least partially by the sole member and the rear surface of the face. The body has an elongated, recessed channel extending within the cavity along a juncture line between the rear surface of the face and the sole member. Additionally, the head is formed in part by a face member having a first leg forming at least a major portion of the face and a second leg extending rearwardly from a bottom end of the first leg and forming at least a portion of the sole member. The head may further be formed by a body member connected to the face member.
US08409020B2	Cross groove type constant velocity joint with composite groove patterns A constant velocity joint for a drive system comprises: an outer joint member having a plurality of inwardly facing outer ball grooves, the outer ball grooves consisting of a first group of grooves and a second group of grooves with composite or non-linear groove pattern; an inner joint member disposed inside the outer joint member and having a plurality of outwardly facing inner ball grooves consisting of a first group of grooves and a second group of grooves with composite or non-linear groove pattern, each inner ball groove of the inner joint member being coupled with a corresponding outer ball groove of the outer joint member generally in crossed pair.
US08409019B2	Propeller shaft A propeller shaft includes a first shaft having a yoke at one end, a second shaft slidably connected to the other end of the first shaft, and a surface treated member which is arranged at a connecting portion, at which the first shaft and the second shaft are connected to each other, and to which surface treatment for improving slidability of the second shaft with respect to the first shaft is applied. The surface treated member is formed by a substrate which is separate from the first shaft and the second shaft and to which the surface treatment has been applied. The surface treated member is arranged at the connecting portion, at which the first shaft and the second shaft are connected to each other, after the surface treatment is applied.
US08409014B2	Wagering game system with shared outcome determined by a gaming machine A gaming system for playing a wagering game and a community event includes a first gaming machine and a second gaming machine. The first gaming machine determines a randomly selected community-event outcome for the community event, and sends information related to the outcome to at least one other gaming machine of the plurality of gaming machines. The second gaming machine receives the information from the first gaming machine and plays the community event.
US08409010B2	Massively multiplayer game with shared gameplay experience According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a computing system for coordinating massively multiplayer games is provided. The computing system may include a data aggregation service to collect, aggregate and distribute game play data that is used by game code executed on each player's computing device to influence game flow of a shared game play experience for many thousands of remotely located players in real-time. Accordingly, game data from any player may impact and influence the game play experience of all other players. Further, each player's computing device may be event driven such that game data may be received from the game data aggregation service at a synchronized time to synchronize the shared game play experience for all players.
US08409007B2	Server apparatus and game system In a game system, a server apparatus (3) that communicates with a plurality of game devices (1) stores play data elements for a plurality of players and public IDs for identifying a plurality of players in a latest play data table (T1) and a public ID table (T2). The server apparatus (3) transmits to a mobile terminal (4), which is being used by a player, information depending on latest play data elements stored in the latest play data table (T1), the latest play data elements belonging to other players who have been registered with the personal relationship table (T3) as a friend of the player possessing the mobile terminal (4). Upon receiving a public-ID-change request from a mobile terminal (4), which is being used by a player, the server apparatus (3) changes the public ID of the player stored in the public ID table (T2).
US08409000B1	Configuring advertisements in a video segment based on a game result Configuration of advertisements in a streaming video segment from a serving node is based on a result of an interactive game process executing on a client device. A configuration of advertisements in the streaming video is determined based on the game result. The configuration may include which advertisements are selected to play during ad slots to be included in the video segment, or a number of ad slots to be provided in the video segment. The serving node may configure the video segment with the advertisements selected based on the game result in the determined number of ad slots so that the selected advertisements are played during the ad slots when the video segment is streamed to the client device. If the video segment is configured with no ad slots based on the game result, then the video segment may be streamed to the client device without advertisements.
US08408995B2	Game system, and jackpot drawing apparatus and game apparatus constituting the same Where a drawing machine for jackpot game is utilized in a game system in which a plurality of game apparatuses are divided into a plurality of groups for management, a payout ratio is easily managed for each group.The drawing machine for jackpot game performs a group drawing for selecting one winning group among a plurality of groups and performs a winner determining process for determining a winner among players who play game apparatuses belonging to the winning group, thereby performing a jackpot drawing. Then, the drawing machine for jackpot game performs the group drawing in a manner that, among the plurality of groups, a particular group in which a total amount of an own group-specific jackpot balance amount obtained by deducting from a group-specific accumulated pool amount obtained by summing up for each group pool amounts of game apparatuses belonging to each group from a predetermined point in time a total amount from the predetermined point in time covering amounts of payout object paid out when a player who played a game apparatus belonging to the group concerned wins a jackpot award and an own group-specific maximum loss amount set for each group is equal to or more than a jackpot retention amount is not determined as a winning group.
US08408994B2	Gaming system and method for enabling a player to select progressive awards to try for and chances of winning progressive awards The present disclosure provides a gaming device, a gaming system and a method for operating a gaming device or gaming system with a plurality of progressive awards. The gaming device enables a player to select one of the progressive awards. The player's selection of which progressive award to play for is based, at least in part, on a relative probability of the player winning the selected progressive award compared to the relative probabilities of the player winning the non-selected progressive awards. After selecting which award to play for, the gaming device either provides the selected progressive award to the player or modifies the relative probability that the player will win the selected progressive award with one or more of any award selections remaining. Such a configuration enables the player to strategically select which award to play for and the order that the player will play for the awards.
US08408993B2	Gaming method and device involving progressive wagers A method of gaming is disclosed wherein progressive award values may be increased in response to certain pre-established game outcomes, wager amounts or random events. The increased progressive award values may be based on a primary game or secondary game outcome. Another innovation is the resetting of progressive awards upon completion of a bonus event whether or not award actually won in said bonus event. Player tracking systems permit progressive award values to be linked to a particular player such that the progressive award values remain personal to the player. Re-setting increased progressive award values is also disclosed.
US08408992B2	SMS payment system having chargeback to subscriber telephone account An SMS transaction gateway server receives an SMS message from a mobile phone of a telephone subscriber to a telephone service via a base station over a wide area network. The SMS transaction gateway server parses the SMS message to identify an order by the telephone subscriber and sends a chargeback request indicative of the order over a wide area network to a mobile billing platform server belonging to the telephone subscriber for an amount corresponding to the order against a mobile phone balance of the telephone subscriber, receives a chargeback confirmation or denial over a wide area network from the mobile billing platform server corresponding to the telephone service belonging to the telephone subscriber, and commences fulfillment of the order when a chargeback confirmation is received from the mobile billing platform server corresponding to the telephone service belonging to the telephone subscriber. In a preferred embodiment the order is an SMS lottery entry. Lottery winnings can also be credited to a prepaid or postpaid account according to an alternate embodiment.
US08408991B2	Gaming system and method of providing an electronic game A gaming system and a method provide primary and secondary games to players using a plurality of linked gaming machines. Each gaming machine includes a display. For each gaming machine, an associated player is allowed to make a wager on a primary game, an outcome of the primary game is randomly selected, and if the outcome of the primary game is a winning outcome, awarding the associated player a primary award as a function of the outcome, the wager made by the player, and a predetermined paytable. If a triggering conditioning occurred in one of the primary games and a secondary game is initiated. The secondary game is a video slot game including a plurality of video reels. Each video reel is displayed on a respective display of one of the gaming machines.
US08408989B2	Gaming system and a method of gaming with random bonus game selection A console is described, having display means, and game control means arranged to control images displayed on the display means, the game control means being arranged to play a game in which one or more symbols are randomly selected as a combination of symbols and displayed on the display means. If a winning combination results, the machine awards a prize. In some circumstances, the console will display an animated character to communicate information to the player. The character is independent of and appears asynchronously with respect to the game being played and is arranged to appear super imposed over any game screen currently displayed at the time the character is displayed.
US08408986B2	Internet based lottery redemption system and methods A method and associated system for Internet play of an instant lottery game includes supplying instant lottery tickets for purchase by players, with each of the instant lottery tickets having a game authorization code. The winning or loosing status of the instant lottery tickets is unknown to the players at the time of purchase. Each of the instant lottery tickets is provided with a unique prize claim code separate from the game authorization code. A web site is provided wherein a player enters the game authorization code via an Internet device to initiate play of the instant lottery game. The outcome of the game is then randomly determined and presented to the player via the web site. The value of a winning outcome is credited to a running tally associated with the lottery ticket and, upon the player cashing out to end the lottery game, a monetary value is assigned for the running tally associated with the unique prize claim code. The prize claim codes are stored and at defined periodic intervals, the prize claim codes are transferred to a lottery system central computer. For redemption of an instant lottery ticket, the player presents the prize claim code to a lottery redemption location wherein the presented prize claim code is verified with data from the transferred prize claim codes to determine a payout to the player for the lottery ticket.
US08408985B2	Providing multiple hands of an online game in a single table environment A system for providing game play. The system includes processors and memory configured to include users as players at a table in an online game and provide cards to the players for playing a first hand of the game. When a jump point is reached in the first hand, the following are provided to at least the players no longer playing the first hand: cards for playing a second hand at the table, and continued online access to play of the first hand. Strategic aspects of face-to-face poker play are retained while action-seeking players can see more hands per hour.
US08408984B2	Gaming device for a flat rate blackjack game play session and a method of operating same A method and apparatus for operating a gaming device having a flat rate play session costing a flat rate price. The flat rate play session spans multiple plays on the gaming device over a pre-established duration. The gaming device identifies price parameters and determines the flat rate price of playing the gaming device based on those price parameters. In one embodiment, identifying price parameters includes receiving player selected price parameters. Once the player initiates play, the gaming device tracks the duration remaining in the flat rate play session and stops the play when the given period has elapsed. During the play, payouts are made either directly to the player in the form of coins or indirectly in the form of credits to the player's credit account.
US08408982B2	Method and apparatus for video game simulations using motion capture A method in a video gaming system including a processor, a memory and a sensor system for capturing body motion is described. In one embodiment, the body motion can be associated with a person pretending to hit or launch an object, such as an object used in a sporting activity. In general, body motion can be associated with any activity involving similar body motions that are repeated during the activity. In a video game generated by the video gaming system, a consistency with which the repeated body motions are made over time can be used to determine an outcome for a single instance of the body motion. In a particular embodiment, a probability of a more desirable outcome resulting from the single instance of the body motion can increase as the consistency with which the repeated body motions are made increases.
US08408981B2	Exhaust device An exhaust device applied to an electronic device is described. Memory deformable elements of the exhaust device are heated to shrink, and meanwhile, guide vanes located on an air outlet are driven to rotate and swing back and forth between a left outlet position and a right outlet position, such that the exhaust device reciprocatively changes an outlet position without requiring any external power.
US08408980B2	Vehicular air conditioning apparatus A vehicular air conditioning apparatus includes a casing constituted by respective air passages. The casing has a vent opening and a defroster opening at an upper portion thereof. The vent opening is disposed on a forward side of a vehicle with respect to the defroster opening. A pair of defroster ducts extend in lateral directions respectively from side portions of the defroster opening, and center vent ducts are disposed in a straight line fashion from the vent opening and oriented rearwardly of the vehicle between the pair of the defroster ducts. The center vent ducts open only in the vehicle compartment. In a bi-level mode, a third front passage on the downstream side of the evaporator extends upwardly in a straight line fashion.
US08408979B2	Compact coin hopper The compact coin hopper for holding and dispensing coins in bulk includes a rotable disk for releasing individual coins to a sliding base beneath the rotable disk for ejection from the coin hopper. The upper surface of the rotable disk includes an upper step part and a lower step part connected by a riser part. The upper step part has a crescent arc shape with a radii smaller than the radius of the rotating disk in a planar view. One end of the crescent arc shape terminates adjacent an edge of the through hole while the other end of the crescent arc shape diverges away from the through hole and terminates adjacent a peripheral side edge of the lower step part. The configuration of the upper and lower step parts and the riser part assist in dispensing a coin.
US08408977B2	Dual-pore structure polishing pad The polishing pad is useful for polishing at least one of magnetic, optical and semiconductor substrates. A porous polishing layer includes a dual porosity structure within a polyurethane matrix. The dual porosity structure has a primary set of pores having pore walls with a thickness of 15 to 55 μm and a storage modulus of 10 to 60 MPa measured at 25° C. In addition, pore walls contain a secondary set of pores having an average pore size of 5 to 30 μm. The porous polishing layer is either fixed to a polymeric film or sheet substrate or formed into a woven or non-woven structure to form the polishing pad.
US08408976B2	Optical grade surfacing device A surface device includes a rigid holder (11), an elastically compressible interface (12) connected to the rigid holder, a flexible pad (13) adapted to be applied onto the surface to be machined (30) and a flexible belt (14) applied against and partially covering the side surface (18) of the interface (12), an annular portion (21) of the side surface (18) of the interface (12) being free between the belt (14) and the holder (11).
US08408973B2	Finishing apparatus with resiliently mountable finishing belt guide The disclosure relates to a finishing apparatus for finish machining of rotationally symmetric workpiece surfaces having a finish belt guide which has a guiding body for guiding the finish belt, wherein the guiding body comprises a shell-like guiding surface along which the finish belt can be guided or is guided between an insertion end of the finish belt and a withdrawal end of the finish belt, wherein the guiding surface is mounted in a resiliently elastic manner in the radial direction, wherein, when seen in the circumferential direction, the guiding surface extends in a continuous manner between the insertion end of the finish belt and the withdrawal end of the finish belt over at least a part of the width of said guiding surface and is mounted in a resiliently elastic manner.
US08408972B2	Apparatus and method for intricate cuts Certain embodiments disclosed herein relate to apparatuses and methods for intricate cuts. In particular, in one embodiment, a cutting apparatus is provided. The cutting apparatus includes a base member and an elongate member extending from the base member. The elongate member includes a tapered region having an abrasive surface. The tapered region defines at least one vertex defining an angle of a desired cutout shape. Additionally, the tapered region is toothless.
US08408970B2	Method of manufacturing glass substrate for magnetic disk, method of manufacturing magnetic disk, and polishing apparatus of glass substrate for magnetic disk A method of manufacturing a glass substrate for a magnetic disk having polishing accuracy on an inner circumferential end face of the substrate, and reduced thermal asperities. An inner circumferential end face of a cylindrical polishing object 12, comprising a plurality of stacked glass substrates 20, is polished. A plurality of polishing cloths disposed around a rotation axis of an inner circumference polishing section having the rotation axis are contacted to the inner circumferential end face 116 of the polishing object at even pressure. Then a polishing liquid is supplied between the inner circumferential end face of the polishing object and the inner circumference polishing section. Finally, the inner circumference polishing section and the polishing object are relatively rotated/moved with the rotation axis as a center, or relatively moved in a direction of the rotation axis, whereby the inner circumferential end face of the polishing object is polished.
US08408967B2	Machine tool with rest apparatus and machining method thereof It is an object of the present invention to provide a machine tool with a rest apparatus having high supporting stiffness of a workpiece by the rest apparatus and having flexibility to machine a plurality of kinds of the workpieces selectively and to provide a machining method of the machine tool with the rest apparatus.The machine tool with the rest apparatus comprising a base 10, a spindle head 20 mounted on the base 10 to hold rotatably one end of a workpiece W, a tail stock 30 mounted on the base 10 to be faced to the spindle head 20 and to hold rotatably the other end of the workpiece W, first rest apparatus 52 mounted between the spindle head 20 and the tail stock 30 and fixed to the base 10 un-movably to support the workpiece W, and second rest apparatus 53 mounted between the spindle head 20 and the tail stock 30 and movably mounted on the base 10 to support said workpiece W.
US08408966B2	Glass manufacturing device A glass manufacturing device includes a work container, a loading device, a sandblaster, a shield device, and a lift device. The loading device is received in the work container and loads a glass substrate in place. The sandblaster is arranged opposite to the loading device and sandblasts the glass substrate. The lift device is connected to the shield device and used for pressing the shield device onto the glass substrate during the process of sandblasting. The shield device includes a shield cover having a number of shield units. The surfaces of the shield units facing the bottom of the work container are engaged with elastic washers. The shield units are configured to shield portions of the glass substrate and prevent the portions of the glass substrate from being cut during sandblasting.
US08408965B2	Eddy current gain compensation In-situ monitoring during processing of a substrate includes processing a conductive film on a substrate in a semiconductor processing apparatus and generating a signal from an eddy current sensor during processing. The signal includes a first portion generated when the eddy current sensor is adjacent the substrate, a second portion generated when the eddy current sensor is adjacent a metal body and not adjacent the substrate, and a third portion generated when the eddy current sensor is adjacent neither the metal body nor the substrate. The second portion of the signal is compared to the third portion of the signal and a gain is determined based at least on a result of the comparing, and the first portion of the signal is multiplied by the gain to generate an adjusted signal.
US08408963B2	System and method for toy adoption and marketing A computer system provides a virtual world. The computer system includes a server subsystem serving virtual world data, via a communication network, and receives data and/or commands. A registration subsystem, coupled to the server subsystem, verifies information from a toy, registers the toy, and determines a quantity of toys registered by a user who is registering the toy. The verifying includes determining the validity of the information. A virtual world providing subsystem, coupled to the server subsystem, provides the virtual world data, which produces data that presents the virtual world. The virtual world data includes a virtual toy representing the toy and a reward provided to the user for registering the toy. The reward is based on the quantity of toys previously registered by the user, such that the reward received for registering the toy is different than another reward previously received by the user for registering another toy.
US08408957B2	Tsunami survival shelter Technology is disclosed for tsunami survival shelters. In various embodiments, a tsunami survival shelter comprises a vertical support column designed to withstand forces exerted by anticipated tsunamis and accompanying debris field; a buoyant inflatable survival life raft removably attached near a top portion of the vertical support column and capable of floating free from the vertical support column, and thereby protecting the occupants in the event of failure or overtopping of the support column; and adornments and coloring to allow the vertical support column and survival raft to blend with their surroundings by imitating trees indigenous to the area.
US08408955B2	Mounting for an outboard engine A mounting for fastening an outboard engine on a boat, in particular a kayak, has a support arm with a first fastening element for fastening the support arm on the boat. The first fastening element is a clamping device for receiving and fixing a knob on the boat.
US08408953B2	Arrangement and method for controlling a propeller drive on a boat An arrangement and a method for controlling a propeller drive on a boat including a propeller drive suspended in a housing that can rotate, a servo motor which is arranged to rotate said rotating housing, a control unit which is arranged to control the servo motor in response to an input signal from a control device, corresponding to a required position of the rotating housing.
US08408952B2	Wiring terminal structures A wiring terminal structure of the present invention includes a box and a plugging element. The box is an integrally formed unitary unit and includes an upper wall, side walls, a lower wall, a hole, and a leaf spring. The upper wall, the side walls, and the lower wall define a space. The hole is formed on the upper wall and enables communication between the space and the outside of the box. The leaf spring extends upward from the lower wall to reach the space and forms an end protruding from the hole. The plugging element includes a plugging portion and a clamping portion having upper and lower clamping leaf springs. The plugging portion is inserted into the space and plugged into the box. The end of the leaf spring abuts against the plugging portion and is pressed downward by the plugging portion to lie in the space.
US08408950B2	Female connector assembly An assembly of a female connector, including: a housing including a casing having an opening formed in front of the casing so that a male connector is inserted in the opening, an internal body that includes one or more terminal-accommodating holes formed in the internal body and protrudes from a rear side of the casing towards a front of the housing, and a plurality of first combining portions that extend from the internal body to the front of the housing, each of the plurality of first combining portions including an extension groove formed in one side of each first combining portion so as to communicate with the one or more terminal-accommodating holes.
US08408945B2	Electronic device having a can housing and method for producing the same An electronic device (1) has a can housing (3) and a method for producing the same. The can housing (3) has an open end face (4). A plug-in unit (5) can be inserted into the can housing (3) through the end face (4). The plug-in unit (5) has a populated circuit board (6) and a multicontact connector (7). The can housing (3) has an integrated connector collar (8), which integrally extends the can housing (3) and surrounds the multicontact connector (7) and contact elements (9). The connector collar (8) forms a fit for a mating connector. The insert has the circuit board (6) and a contact carrier (10) having the multicontact connector (7) without the connector collar (8). The outer contour (11) of the contact carrier (10) is at least partially matched to the inner contour (12) of the connector collar (8).
US08408943B2	Connector A connector includes a first assembly structure and a second assembly structure assembled together. The first assembly structure includes: a connector housing from which an electric wire is pulled out; a first shield shell fixed to the connector housing; and a first locking portion provided on any one of the connector housing and the first shield shell. The second assembly structure includes: a second shield shell having a guide configured to make pressure contact with a connection plate of the first shield shell in an assembled state; a second locking portion engaging with the first locking portion in the assembled state; a shield electric wire covering the electric wire; and an electric wire fastener fastening the shield electric wire to the second shield shell with the shield electric wire interposed between the electric wire fastener and the second shield shell.
US08408941B2	Condenser microphone and its output connector In an output connector for a condenser microphone, which has a printed wiring board mounted with a capacitor element for preventing intrusion of high-frequency waves and a Zener diode element for preventing circuit destruction due to static electricity, the generation of noise caused by the Zener diode element is reduced. In the output connector configured such that on a connector base 11 through which a first pin for earthing and second and third pins for signal are penetratingly provided, a capacitor element 148 for preventing intrusion of high-frequency waves and a Zener diode element 149 for preventing circuit destruction due to static electricity are mounted in parallel on the upper surface side thereof, and a printed wiring board 14 formed with an electrostatic shield layer consisting of a copper foil is formed on the lower surface side thereof, a magnetic sheet 16 is disposed between the connector base 11 and the electrostatic shield layer of the printed wiring board 14, and a low-pass filter of LC is formed by the inductance component L caused by the magnetic sheet 16 and the capacitance component C of the capacitor element.
US08408939B2	Electrical connector system An electrical connector system for mounting to a substrate is disclosed. The electrical connector system may include a plurality of wafer assemblies defining a mating end and a mating end. Each wafer assembly may include a first overmolded array of electrical contacts, each electrical contact defining an electrical mating connector extending past an edge of the overmold of the first overmolded array of electrical contacts at the mating end of the wafer assembly; a first ground shield configured to be assembled with the first overmolded array of electrical contacts; and a second overmolded array of electrical contacts configured to be assembled with the first overmolded array of electrical contacts, each electrical contact defining an electrical mating connector extending past an edge of the overmold of the second overmolded array of electrical contacts at the mating end of the wafer assembly.
US08408935B2	Lighting connector devices and uses thereof A multi-way connector connects a plurality of lighting apparatuses together, wherein connector comprises a plurality of lighting connectors, each lighting connector comprising an upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; and a lower housing which has a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions, the lower housing being connectable with the upper housing to form each lighting connector by coupling at least one of the interlocking grooves with at least one of the interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes; a multi-way connecting portion configured to permit power and/or signals to pass between and among the plurality of lighting connectors; and plural flexible connectors electrically connecting each lower housing with the multi-way connecting portion.
US08408930B1	Mechanism for facilitating correct card insertion in electronic devices A slot mechanism for an electronic device is adapted to receive a card therein. The slot mechanism includes a slot disposed within the electronic device. A pivotally moveable tab is spring biased to protrude within an interior of the slot. A spring biased card release mechanism includes a first arm disposed within the interior of the slot and a second arm disposed exterior to the slot. The second arm is configured to prevent movement of the pivotally moveable tab by the card when the card is inserted in an incorrect orientation, thereby preventing complete insertion of the card. The first arm is configured to allow movement of the pivotally moveable tab by the card when the card is inserted in a correct orientation, thereby allowing complete insertion of the card.
US08408926B1	Network connector with switch function The network connector of the invention includes an isolated body, a switch module, an input pin set and an output pin set. The switch module includes a circuit board and switch component thereon. The input pin set and output pin set electrically connect to the switch component. When the network connector receives external electricity, the switch component will be electrically opened or closed to turn on or off the network connection.
US08408925B2	Visible open for switchgear assembly An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body having a conductor receiving end, a first connector end, and a visible open port. A contact assembly may extend axially within the connector body from the conductor receiving end to the first connector end. A conductive insert may be inserted into the visible open port. At least a portion of the contact assembly is visible through the visible open port prior to insertion of the conductive insert or following removal of the conductive insert. The portion of the contact assembly visible through the visible open port includes a first contact portion and a second contact portion separated by a gap. A portion of the conductive insert is received in the gap between the first contact portion and the second contact portion to allow current to flow from the second contact portion to the first contact portion upon insertion of the conductive insert into the visible open port.
US08408921B2	Fastening device and printed circuit board assembly having same A printed circuit board (PCB) assembly includes a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), a connector, a rigid PCB, and a fastening device. The rigid PCB includes a loading surface, a bottom surface opposite to the loading surface, and two pins protruding from the bottom surface. The loading surface contacts the FPCB. The FPCB is electrically connected to the rigid PCB through the connector. The fastening device includes a pressing plate, two fastening bars and two connecting arms. The pressing plate includes a pressing surface contacting the FPCB. The fastening bars are parallel to the pressing surface. Each fastening bar includes a hook grappling with a corresponding pin. Each hook includes a resisting surface resisting on the bottom surface. Each connecting arm connects the pressing plate and a corresponding fastening bar.
US08408915B2	N-back exercise for training cognition Computer-implemented method for improving cognition. Multiple first and second stimulus elements are provided, where some of the second elements correspond to the first elements. A sequence of first stimulus elements is presented, each element presented for a duration separated by an interval. After a specified delay period, equal to the duration plus the interval, times a non-integer factor N, a sequence of groups of second elements is presented concurrently with the sequence of first elements, where each group includes a matching second element that matches a corresponding first element presented earlier by the specified delay period, i.e., presented N first elements back. For each presented group, the participant indicates the matching second element, or a second element in the group that doesn't match. The delay period is modified based on whether the participant responded correctly. The presenting, presenting, requiring, determining, and modifying are repeated in an iterative manner.
US08408911B2	Motorcycle wheelie training device The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for using the apparatus for safely training a motorcycle rider to perform a wheelie, either while moving or while stationary. The apparatus provides a safety system which prevents the motorcycle from tipping over backwards or sideways.
US08408909B1	Non-pyrotechnic cueing device A non-pyrotechnic cueing device for use in non-lethal gunfire activities. The cueing device includes a fluid container for containing a fluid, and a fluid discharge assembly in communication with the fluid container. The fluid discharge assembly is adapted to force the fluid from the fluid container through an opening of the fluid container upon activation. A trigger having an engaged position with respect to the fluid discharge assembly and a disengaged position with respect to the fluid discharge assembly is adapted to activate the fluid discharge assembly upon movement to the disengaged position. A thermally responsive non-pyrotechnic trigger actuator is coupled to the trigger and is adapted to selectively move the trigger to the disengaged position.
US08408908B1	Non-pyrotechnic detonation simulator Embodiments include a non-pyrotechnic detonation simulator. The simulator includes a substrate, a plurality of capacitors fixed with respect to the substrate, a voltage source, and a controller. The controller is electrically coupled to the capacitors and is adapted to selectively direct a burst voltage from the voltage source to one or more of the capacitors to cause the one or more of the plurality of capacitors to burst.
US08408905B2	Method for manufacturing dental implant and dental implant A dental implant capable of reliably preventing elution of metal when the dental implant is applied within an oral cavity and capable of reliably preventing the occurrence of mismatching (bumpy occlusion or the like) when the dental implant is fixed in place. The dental implant includes an abutment comprising a titanium member composed of a sintered body made from titanium or titanium alloy, and a ceramic member composed of a sintered body made from oxide-based ceramic. One of the titanium member and the ceramic member has a recess and the other of the titanium member and the ceramic member has a protrusion inserted into the recess. The shape of the protrusion conforms to the recess.
US08408904B2	Coupling for a multi-part dental implant system The invention relates to an abutment for use in a dental implant system, wherein the abutment is provided with a guiding and lock element for associating the abutment to a dental implant, the guiding and lock element including: a first conically tapered section; a second substantially non-tapered section arranged apically adjacent to the first section, the second section being provided with an anti-rotational element; and a third substantially circular cylindrical section arranged apically adjacent to the second section, such that to provide axial guiding to the abutment upon the insertion thereof into a dental implant. Further, the invention relates to a dental implant formed in a similar manner.
US08408903B2	Multi-cortical dental implant anchor, dental implant kit and template A multi-cortical implant anchor for use with a dental implant having a generally elongate shank and a grippable region formed at a predetermined portion thereof, the implant anchor comprises a first elongate member and a second elongate member connected therebetween via a bridge member to generally form a member having a longitudinal axis, the first elongate member and the second elongate member being adapted to lockably engage the grippable region of the dental implant against pivoting in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.
US08408897B2	Gas burner The present invention provides a gas burner (10) including: a distributor means (50) having at least one distribution chamber to distribute an air gas mixture around said distributor (50), said burner (10) including a plurality of flame ports (70) through which said gas mixture can pass and be ignited; at least one injector (39) associated with said distributor (50), said at least one injector (39) being positioned to inject gas into said at least distribution chamber via a venture formed of a vertically directed passage and transition port (64) and at least one venturi extension extending away from said transition port (64). The present invention also provides manifold for a gas burner (10), said manifold having an upper wall (12) and a lower wall (16) held in spaced apart relationship by a peripheral wall to define a cavity there between, said manifold including means (38) to mount at least one injector (39) so as to deliver an air gas supply to a distribution means (50) and an inlet port (18) to allow connection to a supply of gas, which can pressurize said cavity, said upper (12) and said lower (16) wall being formed from relatively thin sections.
US08408895B2	Transferring mold and production process of transferring mold To provide a transferring mold by which fine patterns can be transferred and transcription of a large area can be coped with and a production process of the transferring mold. The transferring mold of the present invention is characterized in that the mold comprises a roll body formed approximately in a column shape, a surface layer (3) formed on the outer peripheral surface of the roll body and a fine structure layer formed on the surface layer (3) and that the surface layer (3) is composed of a material having a refractive index n of not less than 1.3 and not more than 2.0 and an extinction coefficient k of not more than 0.3 at a wavelength of 405 nm.
US08408891B2	Golf ball mold and golf ball manufacturing method The invention provides a golf ball mold that includes a mold body configured as a plurality of mold parts which have at least a parting surface that defines a parting line at a golf ball equator and removably mate to form a cavity having an inner wall with a plurality of dimple-forming protrusions thereon, and a support pin which has an end face with a plurality of dimple-forming protrusions thereon and is extendable into and retractable from the cavity. The support pin extends into the cavity to support a center sphere and, when in a retracted state, the end face thereof defines a portion of the inner wall of the cavity. The end face of the support pin includes a pole of the cavity and has a peripheral edge which intersects a parallel of latitude at 10 degrees from the pole.Using the golf ball mold of the invention, good molded pieces which do not give rise to problems such as appearance defects and irregular flash can be easily and reliably obtained, helping to improve golf ball productivity.
US08408890B2	Mold system for composite molding [PROBLEM]To provide a method of molding a composite molded article enabling compression molding without requiring a large sized injection molding machine and a mold system used for that.[MEANS FOR SOLUTION]A method of molding a composite molded article using a first mold member 13 to mold a primary molded article 29 by primary molding, switching a movable mold member holding the primary molded article 29 with a movable mold member 14 positioned with a second mold member 15, then using a second mold member 15 in which the primary molded article 29 is inserted to mold a secondary molded article 30 by secondary molding, wherein the primary molding and the secondary molding are executed by non-continuous different steps at points of time different from each other.
US08408885B2	Washer fluid pump for a window cleaning system of a motor vehicle A washer fluid pump (2) for a window cleaning system includes two ventilation openings (13, 14) arranged in a housing (5) and linked with a single opening (15) arranged on the inside. A ventilation duct (18) has two sections (16, 17) arranged tangentially to the housing (5). The ventilation openings (13, 14) are separated from each other by a partition (19). This design makes it possible for the housing (5) to have a large ventilation cross section and avoids splashed water penetrating the housing (5).
US08408882B2	Pressure washer pump and engine system A pressure washer system includes an internal combustion engine and a water pump. The internal combustion engine includes an engine block forming a chamber and a cover for the chamber. The cover has an area designed to hold a lubricant. Additionally, the engine includes a crankshaft within the chamber. The water pump includes a pumping mechanism, an inlet, an outlet, and a fluid passage. The pumping mechanism is powered by the crankshaft. Water enters the pump through the inlet and exits the pump through the outlet. The fluid passage extends between the inlet and the outlet. A portion of the fluid passage is formed in the cover of the engine. Heat transfers from the lubricant of the engine to the water of the water pump during operation of the pressure washer system.
US08408881B2	Rotary vacuum pump with a device for decoupling the driving motor A rotary vacuum pump comprises, between the rotor (2) and a driving motor, a control unit (1; 101) for operatively connecting the pump and the motor only in the periods in which the pump operation is required or desired. The control unit (1; 101) includes: a rotating member (12; 112) connected to a motor output and arranged to be made integral for rotation with the pump rotor (2, 10) when the pump operation is required or desired; a plurality of coupling elements (17), which are located between the rotating member (12; 112) and an element (10) belonging to or integral for rotation with the pump rotor (2), and which are arranged to take a coupling position or a decoupling position to make the rotating member (12; 112) and the rotor (2) integral for rotation, or to make the rotating member (12; 112) and the rotor (2) independent of each other, respectively; and actuating members (40, 14, 19, 20, 26; 140, 114, 119, 126) for actuating said coupling elements (17), which actuating members are driven by said rotating member (12; 112) so as to take a first position and a second position in the periods where the pump is operating and in the periods where the pump is not operating respectively.
US08408877B2	Wind turbine blades with twisted tips A blade for a wind turbine includes a total backward twist of between approximately 6 degrees and approximately 15 degrees between an outer approximately 1 percent to approximately 10 percent of a rotor radius of the blade.
US08408875B2	Rotor blade attachment A rotor blade attachment, in particular of a wind power plant, for the connection of a rotor blade with an attachment device, including a transverse pin and a connecting device, which can be brought together to establish an operative connection, wherein the connecting device defines a longitudinal axis. The rotor blade attachment is characterized in that the transverse pin in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connecting device has a higher bending stiffness than transversally to the longitudinal axis. An alternative rotor blade attachment is characterized in that the transverse pins are arranged in at least two rows, wherein at least a first row is arranged closer to the blade-root-side end of the rotor blade than at least a second row.
US08408874B2	Platformless turbine blade A turbine blade rotor assembly is disclosed for a gas turbine engine. The assembly includes a rotor having nickel alloy turbine blades secured thereto. Each of the blades includes a root and an airfoil. The roots are supported by the rotor. A ceramic matrix composite platform separate from the turbine blades is supported between each pair of the turbine blades adjacent to the airfoils. In another example, the airfoil includes a perimeter. A shroud having an aperture receives the airfoil with a single shroud substantially surrounding the airfoil at the perimeter. In one example, the turbine blade includes high and low pressure sides opposite one another that extend from a tip to a root. The airfoil is free from any protrusions extending from the high and low pressure sides on a portion of the blade axially outward from the root.
US08408873B2	Welding slot sealing structure and welding method Blades are connected to the surface of a disk and slots are formed in the surface of a shroud, which is opposite from the other surface of the shroud where the blades are to be welded. The blades are arranged on the opposite surface from the slots and a laser beam is applied from the surface in which the slots are formed, to weld the shroud and the blades. Components are installed on the surfaces of the slots on the opposite side from the blades after the blades and the shroud in which the slots are formed are welded. Alternatively, the slots are filled with a material different from that of the shroud, such as a resin. With this configuration, distortion caused by welding heat can be reduced without degrading the fluid performance.
US08408870B2	Wind turbine blade with cambering flaps controlled by surface pressure changes A wind turbine having at least a blade comprising a first component having an aerodynamic profile with a leading edge, a trailing edge, and suction and pressure sides between the leading edge and the trailing edge, and a second component, attached to the trailing edge and/or to the leading edge of the first component in at least a part of the blade, comprising one or several upwards and/or downwards deflectable flaps that allow changing the flow over the blade, in which a device for deflecting each of the flaps comprises an actuating force or torque provided by scaling devices connected to a predetermined location in the outer surface of the blade, through a duct, so that the changes in the wind pressure at this location can be scaled to the actuating force or torque.
US08408867B2	Multi directional augmenter and diffuser This invention relates to an augmenter system for the increase of power generation primarily used for utilizing wind energy. The augmenter system includes an augmenter having a plurality of walls, such as flexible walls, connected to each other with supporting horizontal elongated members. The augmenter is used in conjunction with a blade system and an air flow regulation or furling system to achieve optimal power output. The augmenter includes a relatively lightweight, low cost flexible wall structure to enhance an air flow into impact impellers associated with the blade system. In one arrangement, the blade system defines a swept area with a height to diameter ratio of greater than four. In one arrangement, the blade system defines a swept area with a height to diameter ratio of greater than ten.
US08408866B2	Apparatus and method for cooling a turbine airfoil arrangement in a gas turbine engine A turbine airfoil arrangement for a gas turbine engine includes an airfoil having an inlet and an exit, the inlet configured to receive a cooling gas flow operable to cool at least part of an other airfoil; and a passage disposed in the airfoil and fluidly coupled to the inlet and the exit, the exit being configured to pass at least some of the cooling gas flow to the other airfoil.
US08408865B2	Blower A blower apparatus comprises a box-like main frame provided with a main-frame inlet port and a main-frame outlet port in positions confronting each other, and a plurality of centrifugal blower units for suctioning through a blower inlet port air taken inside of the main frame from the main-frame inlet port and discharging the air from a blower air outlet toward the main-frame outlet port. The main frame is provided with a maintenance opening in one of the surfaces other than the surfaces having the main-frame inlet port and the main-frame outlet port for the purpose of checking the inside of the main frame, and the plurality of centrifugal blower units are disposed one another in a direction toward the maintenance opening so that a difference in discharging spatial distances from the blower air outlets of the adjoining centrifugal blower units to the main-frame outlet port is equal to or greater than an outer diameter of an impeller of the centrifugal blower unit located nearest to the maintenance opening.
US08408863B1	Automated shipboard X-Y track material handling and storage method A system and method for automated handling, transferring and storing conventional cargo storage containers on a cargo ship wherein the containers are stored in a multi-tier cell system and are manipulated by powered transfer units which are selectively moveable along an intersecting overhead track system such that containers may be simultaneously retrieved from, moved or placed within any of the cells of the ship. The transfer units are equipped both with hoists, which control spreader beams which are selectively secured to the cargo containers, and guide stabilizers, which prevent undesirable movement of the cargo containers when they are elevated above the cell structures such that the containers may be manipulated even during rough sea conditions such that the system is essentially continuously operable as a floating supply distribution system.
US08408862B1	Guard structures for hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic lines, and loader arms The hydraulic cylinder and line guard of the claimed invention substantially surrounds and protects both a hydraulic cylinder and portions of a hydraulic line. The guard also significantly reduces the visual appearance of the hydraulic lines. While maintaining the flexibility of the hydraulic lines at pivot points, the guard inhibits movement of the line near the cylinder thereby reducing wear on the line. The claimed invention also achieves the important objective of providing an aesthetically pleasing and easily replaceable guard for hydraulic cylinders and lines. The improved guard is achieved by utilizing a resilient guard to cover both the cylinder and the line. The guard may be formed from a single stretchable resilient tube that is deformed to enclose both the line and the cylinder, wherein a cross-section of the guard is defined primarily by combined cross sections of the cylinder adjacent to the line. The guard may also be formed from multiple interconnected resilient segments that combine to substantially enclose a hydraulic line and cylinder. The guard may further have a raised wear surface arranged in an ornamental and/or functional pattern.
US08408859B2	Wafer transfer device and wafer transfer method A wafer transfer device and method capable of preventing a wafer from falling off of a carrier. A first carrier receiver holding a first carrier has a box-like shape having an opening through which the first carrier is attached/removed to/from the first carrier receiving member. A second carrier receiver holding a second carrier has a box-like shape having an opening through which the second carrier is attached/removed to/from the first carrier receiving member. The first carrier and the second carrier can be attached/removed to/from the first carrier receiver and the second carrier receiver, respectively. Owing to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a wafer received in the first carrier and the second carrier from falling off from the first carrier and the second carrier, respectively.
US08408858B2	Substrate processing system having improved substrate transport system A substrate processing system includes a first load lock, a process chamber having a first opening to allow an exchange of a substrate between the first load lock and the first process chamber, first rollers in the process chamber; and second rollers in the first load lock, wherein the first rollers and the second rollers are configured to transport a substrate thereon through the first opening between the first load lock and the process chamber. At least some of the first rollers and the second rollers are idler rollers.
US08408851B2	Key duplication method and machine A method for duplicating a key including receiving a key identification code indicative of key cuts in an original key, and duplicating the original key by forming key cuts in a duplicate key in response to the key identification code, wherein authorization to form the key cuts is restricted by means of a verification code that must be passed before forming the key cuts is permissible. The authorization to form the key cuts may be restricted in various ways, such as to a group of users, a geographic location of a user, or a group of key blanks. The authorization to form the key cuts may be restricted as a function of a physical characteristic of the original key. As another alternative, authorization to form the key cuts may be restricted as a function of whether the original key is a master key or a slave key.
US08408849B2	Pressure-activated ID grooving tool A pressure-activated ID grooving tool includes a tool body having a channel, a front cross slide slot, a rear cross slide slot projecting, and two legs extending from a piston bore. A piston is disposed within the piston bore. A slide arm has an extension face and a retraction face. A cross slide has a cross slide pocket with a slide engaging face immediately opposing the extension face of the slide arm and a slide retracting face immediately opposing the retraction face of the slide arm. When fluid within the channel and the piston bore is pressurized, the piston moves toward the plunger, which in turn causes the extension face of the slide arm into contact with slide engaging face of the cross slide to cause the cross slide to move in an outward radial direction, thereby pushing the insert into contact with a workpiece.
US08408848B2	Rotary cutting tool and cutting insert therefor A cutting insert used in rotary cutting tools for performing turning spinning operations has an upper surface and an opposing base surface with a peripheral surface therebetween, the peripheral surface intersecting the upper surface to form a cutting edge. The cutting edge may be a continuous circular cutting edge. The upper surface has rotational asymmetry about an insert axis passing between the upper surface and the base surface, by virtue of having at least one spiral shaped protrusion with a chip deflection distance which continuously increases in a rotational direction about the insert axis for greater than 180°. The cutting insert is assembled to a cutting tool body having a shank portion and a cutting portion sharing a longitudinal axis, the insert axis being aligned with the longitudinal axis and the cutting insert secured in an insert receiving pocket of the cutting portion.
US08408846B2	Earth-reinforcing revetments for landscaping areas and methods of use and manufacture thereof A method for landscaping an area using an earth-reinforcing revetment includes the steps of providing a first structure of at least one landscaping apparatus having a measure of openings and a base region, providing a second structure of the at least one landscaping apparatus having a measure of openings greater than the measure of openings of the second structure, arranging the second structure at an angle relative to the first structure such that the angle defines a landscaping feature, arranging at least a portion of the first structure on a landscaping region of the area such that the landscaping region at least partially supports base region of the first structure, and disposing landscaping material on the first structure of the landscaping apparatus so as to define a feature for the area. Also, a landscaping apparatus of an earth-reinforcing revetment includes the above described structures.
US08408845B2	Pedestal support for mine prop A pedestal support for a mine prop. The pedestal support includes a collar to dispose a mine prop at least partially therein and a yielding member extending from the collar. The yielding member includes a wall having a top edge and a bottom edge and having a thickness that tapers from the top edge to the bottom edge and that flares from the top edge to the bottom edge.
US08408844B2	Steel material for underground continuous wall, method for producing steel material for underground continuous wall, underground continuous wall, and method for constructing underground continuous wall A steel material for an underground continuous wall equipped with a hat type steel sheet pile having a hat-shaped cross-section, and an H-beam having an H-shaped cross-section, wherein: the hat type steel sheet pile includes a web, a pair of flanges, and a pair of arm sections; the H-beam includes a pair of flange sections and a web section; an outer surface of the H-beam is secured to an outer surface of the web; the length of the H-beam is shorter than that of the hat type steel sheet pile, and an overall length of the H-beam is arranged within the length of the hat type steel sheet pile; and a rear end of the H-beam is located closer to a forward end side than a rear end of the hat type steel sheet pile.
US08408842B2	Connection arrangement for subsea connection of fluid conduits A connection arrangement for subsea connection of at least a first fluid conduit to a second fluid conduit. A supporting unit displaceably supports the connection arrangement against a supporting surface. A coupling device couples and secures the fluid conduits to the connection arrangement thereby interconnecting the fluid conduits to each other. A frame carries the coupling device and is slideably and/or pivotably mounted to the supporting unit so as to allow the frame and the associated coupling device to slide and/or pivot in relation to the supporting unit.
US08408836B2	Hull joint connection A clamp for joining two hull sections is disclosed. In some embodiments, the clamp is realized by a bulkhead and a wedge, wherein the wedge forces the two hull sections into a seated position on the bulkhead. In some embodiments, the clamp further comprises o-rings for providing a pressure seal.
US08408825B2	Apparatus and method to avoid cutting a spliced recording medium position An image recording apparatus having a carrying unit carrying a continuous recording medium; a recording medium connecting unit for replacing and connecting the continuous recording medium; a cutting unit having cutting means cutting the continuous recording medium and detection means detecting a cutting position of the cutting means; and an introducing unit and having a pair of introducing rotating bodies nipping the continuous recording medium to hold and introduce the continuous recording medium into the cutting unit, and comprising a control unit determining whether a connecting position of the continuous recording medium connected in the recording medium connecting unit corresponds to the cutting position of the cutting unit, and when the connecting position and the cutting position are determined as corresponding, controlling a cutting length of the continuous recording medium having the connecting position, to avoid cutting being conducted at the connecting position.
US08408824B2	Image pickup apparatus and image pickup system A camera apparatus and a camera system of the present invention are configured so that a lens unit is attachable/detachable. The lens unit contains at least a lens and an iris, and contains a memory storing setting information required for operating the lens and the iris. When a camera microcomputer checks detection information stored in a memory in a sub-microcomputer at a time of start-up of the camera apparatus, and first detection information is stored in the memory, the setting information is acquired from the lens unit. When second detection information is stored in the memory, the setting information is acquired from another memory in the camera apparatus. Due to this configuration, the time for shifting the switch-on to a photographable state is shortened, and the ease of convenience can be enhanced.
US08408821B2	Visible and infrared dual mode imaging system An imaging system includes an image sensor and an optical filter. The image sensor captures image data in response to incident light. The optical filter filters the light and includes a dual window transmission spectrum. The dual window transmission spectrum includes a first transmission window having a first pass band aligned to pass visible light and a second transmission window having a second pass band overlapping with an absorption band of infrared light in Earth's atmosphere.
US08408819B2	Camera holding module and device for relief shooting The invention relates to a camera holding module for stereoscopic shooting, characterized in that it comprises: a carriage mobile in translation (2) along at least one guiding rail, driven by a driving device; a camera-holding rotary member (3) having a rotation axis and a guiding member (32) carried by the mobile carriage, as well as an actuator (27) interacting with the guiding member for initiating the movement thereof in order to rotate the camera holding member.
US08408817B2	Controlled radius splice protector and fabrication process A controlled radius splice protector includes a first fiber optic fiber, a second fiber optic fiber, a fiber splice connecting the first fiber optic fiber and the second fiber optic fiber, a hot melted splice tubing extending over the fiber splice and a jacket tubing receiving the hot melted splice tubing and pre-formed to a selected bend radius.
US08408815B2	Optical fiber connector and adapter An optical fiber connector and adapter according to the present invention are provided. At least one indentation is formed on the connector and a protrusion mating with the indentation is formed within the adapter thereby physically limiting the insertion of a connector into a particular adapter.
US08408813B2	Fiber optic connector of a fiber optic connection termination system A fiber optic connector for making a mechanical splice with an optical fiber secured in an optical fiber handler is disclosed. The fiber optic connector provides the craft with a simple, fast and reliable way for terminating the optical fiber.
US08408810B2	Connector for optical waveguides In order to realize an exact contacting of optical waveguides in connectors, the invention proposes a connector for optical waveguides, particularly for being mated and contacted with a mating connector that is equipped with an optoelectric receiver, wherein two optical waveguides are respectively arranged within a ferrule housing in a spring-loaded fashion in individual ferrules and can be axially displaced independently of one another. The ferrule housings are also arranged in a sliding housing that is arranged within a surrounding connector housing such that it can be axially displaced by a certain supplementary travel, namely also in a spring-loaded fashion. This makes it possible to reliably compensate manufacturing-related dimensional tolerances between the ferrule housings and the optoelectric receivers in a mating connector or another adapter.
US08408807B2	Hydraulic thermal compensation for bearing systems A thermal compensation element that generates an optimal bearing pre-load. The thermal compensation element has a bearing housing with a recess, a bearing outer ring arranged at least partially within the recess, a bearing shaft with a bearing inner ring arranged axially inward of the bearing outer ring, a piston with an outer sealing ring fixed in the recess axially between the bearing housing and the bearing outer ring, and a fluid supply port. The port increases or decreases pressure at the piston via a pressurized medium, allowing adjustable axial forces applied to the end of the hearing shaft by the piston to generate optimal bearing pre-load conditions.
US08408803B2	Ultrathin cross-roller bearing An ultrathin cross-roller bearing composed of outer and inner rings, more than one roller rolling through between the outer and inner rings, and a separator interposed between any two adjoining rollers. With the ultrathin cross-roller bearing constructed as stated earlier, the separator lying between the adjoining rollers is in the form of right cylinder better for keeping constantly the roller in proper posture, getting the bearing itself downsized and lightweight as small as possible, and further making sure of positive lubrication. The outer and inner rings are each made into one-piece construction. The inner ring has an inside diameter in a range of from 20 mm to 50 mm. The roller used in the ultrathin cross-roller bearing has a diameter of 2 mm to render a transverse section given by a product of a radial height and a bearing width in transverse section small or ultrathin in thickness.
US08408801B2	Oiling nozzle for thrust bearing An oiling nozzle for a thrust bearing improves the following capability of pads and achieves a higher bearing pressure of the thrust bearing. The oiling nozzles are arranged between respective pads disposed in positions facing the thrust surface of a thrust collar that protrudes radially outward from a rotor shaft, along the circumferential direction. Each oiling nozzle has a cylindrical stem and a rectangular-shaped mainframe whose heightwise middle portions of opposite lateral sides are provided with convex parts. Each convex part presents a semicircular disk shape in a plane view to be fitted into concave parts that are formed in lateral sides of the pads. A top portion located on a side opposite to the stem is formed with a plurality of nozzle holes for ejecting lubricating oil that has been supplied from the bottom of the stem toward a space between the thrust collar and the pads.
US08408800B2	Closed end bearing cup A cup bearing includes a cylindrical component having first and second axial ends and defining a lumen therethrough. The cylindrical component includes first and second end portions proximal to the first and second axial ends, respectively. The cylindrical component includes a corrugated portion disposed axially between the first and second end portions. The corrugated portion includes a plurality of corrugations extending radially inwardly. A corrugation of the plurality of corrugations includes a ridge defining a first inner radius of the lumen. The cup bearing further includes a first radial stop associated with the first end portion. The first radial stop defines a second inner radius greater than the first inner radius. The cup bearing also includes an end cap coupled to the second axial end of the cylindrical component.
US08408799B2	Bearing for connecting rod of internal combustion engine A connecting rod bearing is constituted of a pair of semi-cylindrical bearings I and II. In a state in which the semi-cylindrical bearings are assembled into a cylindrical shape, along two contact surfaces C of circumferential end surfaces, first axial oil grooves E are formed to be located at a central portion in a bearing width direction, and second axial oil grooves F are formed to be located at both sides in the bearing width direction of each of the first axial oil grooves E. One of the first axial oil grooves E and two of the second axial oil grooves F are in relation to communicate with each other. The first axial oil groove E is formed in the range of the wall thickness decreasing region surface A.
US08408797B2	Method of manufacturing bearing device component coated with photoluminescence material, bearing device component and processing device with an indicator displaying information for a signal including information in accordance with light emission of a photoluminescence material applied on bearing device A method of manufacturing a bearing device component is provided. The bearing device includes a shaft and a sleeve that surrounds the shaft, and at least either one of the shaft and the sleeve is referred to as a work. The method includes: a process of forming a coating of an anti-sticking-lube polymer on the work; a process of applying a photoluminescence material to a range overlapping a range where the coating of the anti-sticking-lube polymer is formed; and a condition detecting process of causing the photoluminescence material to emit light by causing the work to be irradiated with excitation light that excites the photoluminescence material, and detecting an applied condition of the photoluminescence material based on the light emission of the photoluminescence material, thereby detecting a condition of the coating of the anti-sticking-lube polymer.
US08408794B2	Linear ball bearing and supporting race element for the same A linear ball bearing for longitudinally movable mounting of a shaft-like guide rail in a part surrounding the guide rail, which has a sleeve-like cage with recesses arranged one behind the other in the circumferential direction holding ball circuits which have at least one supporting section with supporting balls which are supported such that they can roll on the guide rail. The supporting balls are also supported such that they can roll on a raceway of a supporting race element inserted indirectly or directly into the cage. The supporting race element has at least one radial outer surface, arched outward at least in one direction, for contact against an inner surface of the part which surrounds the guide rail. The outer surface is formed by at least one web-like projection extending in the longitudinal direction of the supporting race element.
US08408793B2	Flexible container for pourable product A flexible container for containing a quantity of pourable product is disclosed herein. The flexible container includes a bag having a first closed end and a second closed end and a wall extending between the first closed end and the second closed end to define a closed cavity. The flexible container also includes a plurality of tearable score lines in the bag spaced from one another to define a plurality of differently configured intended openings in the bag.
US08408789B2	X-ray analysis apparatus and X-ray analysis method An X-ray analysis apparatus including: a radiation source configured to irradiate an irradiation point on a sample with radiation; an X-ray detector configured to detect a characteristic X-ray emitted from the sample, and output a signal including energy information about the characteristic X-ray; an analyzer configured to analyze the signal; a sample stage configured to allow placement of the sample thereon; a shifting mechanism being capable of relatively shifting the sample on the sample stage and the radiation source and the X-ray detector with respect to each other; a height measuring mechanism being capable of measuring the height of the irradiation point on the sample; and a controller configured to control the shifting mechanism on the basis of the measured height of the irradiation point on the sample and adjust the distance of the sample with respect to the radiation source and the X-ray detector is used.
US08408787B2	Process temperature transmitter with improved temperature calculation In a process temperature transmitter, a method for providing a process temperature output is described. The method includes providing a measurement current through a circuit including a reference resistor and a resistance temperature device (RTD). A first voltage across the reference resistor is measured while the measurement current flows through it. A first voltage across the RTD is also measured while the measurement current flows through it. A first resistance of the RTD is calculated based on the measured voltage across the reference resistor and the measured first voltage. A first process temperature output is provided based on the first resistance of the RTD. A second voltage is subsequently measured across the RTD while a measurement current flows through it. A second voltage across the reference resistor is then estimated based on the measured second voltage across the RTD and the measured first voltage across the reference resistor. A second resistance across the RTD is calculated based on the measured second voltage and the estimated second voltage. A second process temperature output is provided based on the second resistance.
US08408782B2	Acoustic acceleration of fluid mixing in porous materials Apparatus and methods are disclosed for uniformly mixing fluid phases entrained in a porous material. A mixer may have a vessel and at least one porous material held by the vessel. At least one actuator may be acoustically coupled with at least one wall of the vessel for generating a wave. The wave effects mixing of at least two fluids in the porous material. The actuator may be a linear motor actuated with a control signal of predetermined frequency. The actuator may have a number of actuator pairs each including respective first and second actuators at respective first and second sides of the vessel. The actuators may be hinged for reciprocal movement. The actuators may be actuated to form a compression-expansion wave to effect fluid motion in the porous material.
US08408781B2	System, method and apparatus for entraining air in concrete A method of preparing a concrete composition includes utilizing a controller to control a process including circulating process water in a process water supply loop for a predetermined period while monitoring and controlling the temperature and flow rate of the process water, circulating aqueous-based air entrainment solution in an aqueous-based air entrainment solution supply loop for the predetermined period and controlling the flow rate of the aqueous-based air entrainment solution and after the predetermined period of time in which the flow of process water and aqueous-based air entrainment solution have stabilized, simultaneously actuating valves to divert and mix the process water, the aqueous-based air entrainment solution and compressed air to produce an air-entrained foam and mixing the foam with a concrete composition.
US08408775B1	Light recycling directional control element and light emitting device using the same In one embodiment of this invention, an optical element comprises a light recycling directional control element and provides increased spatial color or luminance uniformity, desired angular color uniformity, and customizable light re-direction properties. In one embodiment, the optical element comprises at least one light blocking region and a lenticular lens element. Further embodiments incorporate an anisotropic light backscattering region within a light transmitting layer. The optical element may further comprise a light collimating element or an additional light lenticular lens element and light transmitting region that may be oriented parallel or perpendicular to the first lenticular lens element. Light emitting devices and displays incorporating the light recycling direction control element are further embodiments of this invention.
US08408774B2	Light reflector, planar light source and illumination device using the same A light reflector comprising a resin film having a reflection angle peak ratio [i.e. (reflection peak value when a light ray is applied at an angle of 45° to the perpendicular line of the reflection surface)/(reflection peak value when a light ray is applied at an angle of 15° to the perpendicular line of the reflection surface)] of from 1.3 to 10, and a specular reflectance [i.e. (reflectance)−(diffuse reflectance)] of from 1.4% to 10%. This light reflector can prevent generation of a bright line even when it is used in an illumination device having a plurality of light sources.
US08408771B2	Lamp unit A lamp unit is constructed of light sources, a reflector, a lamp housing that receives the light sources and the reflector therein, and a lamp lens that closes an opening of the lamp housing. The reflector has a through hole that is formed in a portion positioned above a first light source as a heat source, so that air warmed by heat of the first light source can be introduced into a rear side of the reflector via the through hole. The air introduced into the rear side of the reflector via the through hole and ascending therein can be lead by a first guide means to an air stagnating portion positioned in an end periphery of a hermetically-closed space that is defined by the lamp housing and the lamp lens.
US08408770B2	Back cover and method of assembling back cover A back cover (16) is attached to a cover mounting portion (5) of a lamp body (2) defining a lamp chamber (4) of a vehicle lamp (1). The back cover (16) is provided with a cover main body (19) to which a connection terminal (20) is partially embedded and a metallic case member (18) to which a circuit board (29, 30) is mounted. A seal groove (27) is formed on one of the cover main body (19) the case member (18).An elongated seal projection (18b) formed on the other of the cover main body (19) the case member (18). The elongated seal projection (18b) is fitted in the seal groove (27) and bonded to the seal groove (27), so that the elongated seal projection (18b) is fixed to the seal groove (27).
US08408769B2	Optical module for motor vehicle headlamp equipped with a device for electrical connection to remote devices An optical module equipping a motor vehicle lighting and/or indicating device, provided with a assembly structure movably assembled on a bracket and means of electrical connection to at least one remote device, wherein the optical module is equipped with an electrical connection device comprising a flexible element integrating electrical conductors, the flexible element is connected between the assembly structure and the bracket such that the points of mechanical connection together produce a freedom of movement limited in space.
US08408761B2	Articulating lamp The lamp has a superior, sleek, aesthetic profile, while also providing robust functionality and articulation. The lamp includes at least one joint that combines the functionality of allowing an arm of the lamp to articulate and rotate, as well as allowing the joint to be pulled apart and plugged back together. Each articulating hinged or pivoting joint transmits electrical power between the adjoining members without the use of exposed wiring. There are a variety of structural options regarding the lamps base or attachment mechanism, including a weighted base, a clamp, a through-table mount, or a wall mount. Available versions of this sleek lamp include a variety of arm and joint configurations so that the lamp can serve a wide range of installations and applications, while using a standardized group of components.
US08408758B2	Recessed luminaire In an embodiment, a luminaire may include a housing that includes a support panel, a rotation ring supported by the support panel where the rotation ring is infinitely adjustable with a range of adjustments with respect to the support panel, a rotation drive unit configured to rotate the rotation ring with respect to the support panel, an aiming frame supported by the rotation ring, a tray system pivotally mounted to the aiming frame and configured to receive the bulb, and a tray drive configured to rotate the tray system about the pivotal mounting, whereby, in operation the rotational and angular orientation of the bulb may be adjusted while the bulb is on.
US08408756B2	Light having a housing part and a cover A light includes a housing part and a translucent cover connected to the housing part, in a pressure-tight manner, by a screw-on ring. A flame-extinguishing gap is formed between the housing part and the cover. The flame-extinguishing gap is formed directly between a surface of the cover, and a surface of the housing part, and the screw-on ring covers the flame-extinguishing gap at the gap end pointing to the outer side of the light.
US08408752B2	Surface lighting unit, surface lighting light source device, surface lighting device In a surface lighting unit comprising a footprint portion, a sidewall portion, and an optical reflector with an opening spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the footprint portion. The opening substantially satisfies a relation A=bx2+c, assuming A is the open area ratio, i.e. the ratio of the opening area in a preset predetermined region to the area of the preset predetermined region, b and c are constants, and x is the distance from the center of the optical reflector. The opening has a circular non-through hole concentric to the center of the optical reflector, a concentric arcuate hole on the outside thereof, and a plurality of round holes farther on the outside thereof.
US08408747B2	Light emitting devices having heat-dissipating surface A light-emitting device may include a heat-dissipating base, a light-emitting unit, a housing, and a first conductive contact and a second conductive contact. The heat-dissipating base has a top portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion of the heat-dissipating base may include an exposed heat-dissipation surface. The light-emitting unit is over the top portion of the heat-dissipating base and is arranged to provide heat conductivity at least from the light-emitting unit to the heat-dissipating base. The light-emitting unit may include at least one light-emitting diode for emitting light and a first electrode and a second electrode. Heat may be generated as the light-emitting diode emits light, and the at least one light-emitting diode may have power input terminals for receiving power input to the at least one light-emitting diode. The power input may include one of an alternating-current input and a direct-current input. The first electrode and the second electrode are electrically coupled with the input terminals of the at least one light-emitting diode. The housing encloses at least a portion of the light emitting unit and covers the top portion of the heat-dissipating base. The first conductive contact and the second conductive contact are near or below a portion of the heat-dissipating base and are configured to receive external power supply. The first conductive contact may be electrically coupled with the first electrode, and the second conductive contact may be electrically coupled with the second electrode.
US08408746B1	Artificial candles with glowing canopies that flutter An artificial candle has a flexible glowing canopy that can flutter like a candle flame, and the canopy may surround a “wick” that can be seen through the canopy to glow. Such a diaphanous canopy can be actuated by a solenoid, piezoelectric actuator or other mechanism, which can be provided adjacent to the canopy. Light can emanate from at least one light emitting diode (LED), and the canopy can include fluorescent material that absorbs and reradiates some of the light from the LED(s). The wick and the canopy can be coupled to a shaft that simulates a wax candle body. A standard threaded fitting can be provided so that the artificial candle can thread into a socket to replace an incandescent light bulb.
US08408744B2	RGB LED control using vector calibration Color matching and coordinated illumination is achieved using RGB LEDs and vector calibration.
US08408743B1	LED module with fixing device An LED module includes a light bar and a fixing device. The light bar includes a supporting plate and a circuit board mounted on the supporting plate. The circuit board has a plurality of light emitting diodes thereon. The supporting plate includes a first tongue and a second tongue respectively extending from two opposite ends thereof. The fixing device includes a substrate to support the light bar, a fastening piece and a tenon fixing respectively the two ends of the light bar on the substrate. The fastening piece includes a seat fixed on the substrate and a locking arm connecting to the seat. The first tongue of the light bar is embedded in the tenon, and the second tongue of the light bar is received in a space defined between the seat and the locking arm.
US08408737B2	Light emitting diode sign lighter A light emitting diode (LED) sign lighter is positioned to illuminate a sign. One or more LED modules on the LED sign lighter are directed toward different portions of the sign. Each LED module is configured with a reflector or over-optic to control the angle of the light emitted toward the sign. Each LED module includes an array of LEDs. The configuration of each LED module within the LED sign lighter helps to reduce the build-up of environmental contaminants on the LED module. The center section of the LED sign lighter includes a compartment for housing electrical components to power the LED modules. Heat sink fins are oriented along the back side of the LED sign lighter to provide thermal efficiency for the LED modules.
US08408728B2	Lighted fittings for bathing installations A fixture for through hole mounting to a panel includes a flange structure fabricated of a translucent material. The flange structure includes a body portion adapted to extend through a mount hole in the panel and having a outer peripheral portion, and a transverse flange portion having an outer size larger than the hole opening. A periphery flange portion overlaps the panel surrounding the hole when the flange structure is installed in the panel hole. A light source attachment portion is configured to direct light emitted from a light source into the body portion of the flange structure, so that at least some of the emitted light passes into the flange portion to illuminate the flange portion.
US08408724B2	Light source module and lighting apparatus A light source module includes a module substrate, a metal conductor, a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements, a white diffuse reflection layer, and translucent sealing members. The metal conductor is provided in a predetermined pattern on a front surface of the module substrate. The semiconductor light emitting elements are electrically connected to the metal conductor and mounted on the front surface of the module substrate. The white diffuse reflection layer includes a plurality of holes in which the semiconductor light emitting elements are located, is thinner than the semiconductor light emitting elements, and is laminated to the front surface of the module substrate. The translucent sealing members bury the semiconductor light emitting elements, project below the diffuse reflection layer, and are mixed with a phosphor.
US08408721B2	Projection system with imaging light source module An imaging light source module that includes a plurality of light guides, a plurality of light emitting sources, and an intermediate image surface is disclosed. Each of the plurality of light guides has an entrance face, an exit face, and at least one side wall, and all of the light guides are capable of delivering light along associated light distribution axes intersecting a common reference point. Each of the plurality of light emitting sources delivers light only to a single light guide of the plurality of light guides. The intermediate image surface comprises a plurality of pixels, where each pixel receives light from the exit face of a single associated light guide of the plurality of light guides.
US08408720B2	Image display apparatus, image display method, and recording medium having image display program stored therein A projector divides and projects a single image onto two different projection surfaces and performs virtual user interface through one projection surface. The projector projects a VUI screen image on a desk and projects a main projected screen image on a wall. The projector includes a light receiving element, which is installed at a position that receives light emitted to the desk (the projection surface of the VUI screen image) and reflected (or scattered) by an object in the vicinity of the desk. The projector calculates a position of the object based on a light detection timing of the light-receiving element and a scanning position of light at each time and changes a projected image based on the calculated position. The projector displays a designated region of the VUI screen image to be brightened.
US08408717B2	Projection type image display apparatus A projection type image display apparatus includes a first lens group including a plural number of lenses being disposed in a direction of propagation light with respect to an image display element, a second lens group including a plural number of lenses being disposed in a direction of propagation light with respect to said first lens group and a reflection mirror, which is configured to reflect light emitted from at least one of said first and second lens groups, so as to project the light obliquely upon a screen. A ratio (Lo/Lp) of a diagonal size (Lo) of said screen and a distance (Lp) from a center of said reflection mirror to said screen is at least 2, and the second lens group includes a refractive lens having a negative power and a rotationally symmetric surface configuration.
US08408715B2	Projector with single fan A projector with single fan including a casing, a heat source, a light source module and an axial-flow fan are provided. The casing has an air outlet and a first air inlet. The heat source, the light source module and the axial-flow fan are disposed in the casing. The light source module includes a lamp shade and a light-emitting part. The axial-flow fan is disposed in a light outgoing side of the light source module and has an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet. When the axial-flow fan is operating, a first airflow is generated. After flowing through the heat source, the first airflow enters the airflow inlet and generates a second airflow. The second airflow, blown out from the airflow outlet, dissipates the heat generated by the light source module and then flows out to the outside of the casing.
US08408711B2	Projector and reflector thereof A reflector applied in a projector including a projection control circuit, a light source unit, a beam combiner, and a lens is disclosed. The reflector includes a transparent electrode layer, an electrophoresis layer and a pixel electrode layer. The electrophoresis layer includes a plurality of micro cups, each micro cup contains suspension therein and a plurality of charged particles. The pixel electrode layer includes a plurality of pixel electrodes corresponding to the micro cups. The projection control circuit provides voltages between each pixel electrode and the transparent electrode layer to drive the charged particles to migrate. When the charged particles arrive at the transparent electrode layer, the lights from the light source unit are reflected by the charged particles to the beam combiner to be combined into an image to be transmitted to the lens to project an image.
US08408710B2	Presentation recording apparatus and method Provided are an apparatus and method thereof for recording a presentation. The presentation recording apparatus includes: a projector operable to project an original image of a presentation onto a screen; a camera operable to capture the image of the presentation projected onto the screen and a light of a pointing device which is irradiated onto the screen; a memory; and a controller, wherein if the projector projects the image of the presentation onto the screen, the controller controls the camera to capture the image of the presentation projected onto the screen, determines coordinate information corresponding to a position of the light of the pointing device irradiated onto the screen, and controls the memory to store the original image of the presentation together with the determined coordinate information.
US08408709B2	Illumination optical system and projector First and second light sources emit first and second light beams, respectively. A light condensing system condenses the beams, and a polarization separation system separates each of the beams into first and second polarization components. A ½ phase plate converts the polarization state of the first polarization component to one equal to that of the second polarization component, and a rod integrator uniformizes spatial energy distribution of the beams condensed by the light condensing system. A relay system forms an image of an exit face of the rod integrator on a region to be illuminated. The light condensing system condenses the first and second polarization components onto first and second regions, respectively, of an entrance face of the rod integrator; and the ½ phase plate is placed at the first region of the entrance face of the rod integrator or at a position conjugate with the first region.
US08408706B2	3D gaze tracker An embodiment of the invention provides a gaze tracker for determining a gaze vector for a person, which comprises a 3D camera that and a picture camera that image the person and a controller that processes images acquired by the cameras to determine a gaze direction and origin for the gaze vector.
US08408703B2	Spectrometer A spectrometer is described, especially for an optical coherence tomograph for detecting parameters of the human eye, with said spectrometer having an input for measurement radiation to be analyzed, fanning the measurement radiation spectrally out along a direction in a fan and guiding it onto a detector that extends along the direction and comprises a plurality of detector pixels that are sensitive to the measurement radiation, with the spectrometer having an adjusting element which can be adjusted in a controlled manner to adjust the relative position of the fan and the detector, thereby optimizing the incidence position of the fan on the detector, in which it is provided that the detector has at least two superimposed, adjacent pixel lines, and a control device is provided which reads out the superimposed pixels of a plurality of pixel lines in a combined manner for a spectral analysis of the measurement radiation in a pixel binning and evaluates signal differences between superimposed pixels to control the adjusting element and to center the incidence position of the fan at a right angle to the direction of the pixel lines.
US08408694B2	Apparatus for labeling containers, comprising a printer unit An apparatus for labelling containers, includes a storage unit, in which a supply of labelling material is accommodated, a labelling device which is disposed in the transport direction (T) of the labels and attaches the labelling material onto the containers, and a print device, which provides the labelling material with an imprint. The print device is disposed in the transport direction (T) of the labelling material between the storage unit and the labelling device and is positioned in the transport direction (T) of the labelling material at a distance from the labelling device.
US08408692B2	Ink set for inkjet recording, image recording method and image recording apparatus The ink set for inkjet recording includes: a water-based ink containing pigment particles and 10 to 25 wt % of water-soluble high-boiling-point organic solvent having an SP value of not higher than 30; and a treatment liquid containing a fluidity reducing agent which reduces fluidity of the pigment particles by making contact with the water-based ink, and 10 to 25 wt % of water-soluble high-boiling-point organic solvent having an SP value of not higher than 30.
US08408691B2	Ink jet recording ink, ink jet image forming method and ink jet recording apparatus The invention provides an ink jet recording ink containing a self-dispersion pigment to a surface of which an anionic functional group represented by the following general formula (1) is bonded directly or through another atomic group, an ammonium salt of an organic carboxylic acid, water, and a water-soluble compound having a hydrophilicity-hydrophobicity coefficient of 0.26 or more as defined by the following equation (A), the ink having a surface tension of 34 mN/m or less, wherein M1 and M2 are, independently of each other, a hydrogen atom, alkali metal, ammonium or organic ammonium; Hydrophilicity-hydrophobicity coefficient=[(Water activity of a 20% aqueous solution)−(Molar fraction of water in the 20% aqueous solution)]/[1−(Molar fraction of water in the 20% aqueous solution)] (A).
US08408690B2	Active energy ray curable ink jet recording liquid composition and ink jet recording method using the same The invention provides an active energy ray curable ink jet recording liquid composition including a radically polymerizable compound, an active energy ray polymerization initiator, a wax and water, wherein the melting point of the wax is 40° C. or more and 120° C. or less.
US08408688B2	Bubble tolerant manifold design for a liquid ejecting head A liquid ejecting head includes pressure generating chambers; nozzles that communicate with respective pressure generating chambers; a manifold that communicates with a liquid introduction opening and that serves as a common flow channel for the multiple pressure generating chambers; liquid supply channels, having liquid supply openings that open into the manifold, that communicate between the manifold and the pressure generating chambers; and a pressure generating element that causes liquid to be ejected through the nozzles by generating pressure within the pressure generating chambers. At least one of the liquid supply openings is physically separated from at least one adjacent liquid supply opening, such as by a partition, which prevents air bubbles from moving between adjacent liquid supply openings.
US08408684B2	Ink jet module A core module for an ink jet printer includes a housing and a connection manifold disposed on the housing and including a plurality of ports providing fluid communication into and out of the module. A plurality of components is disposed within the housing, including a filter module, an ink reservoir, and an ink circuit. The filter module includes a fluid filter disposed in a filter housing. The filter housing has an inlet and an outlet. The ink circuit is in fluid communication with the components and the ports, and includes fluid paths for conveying ink between the components. The filter module is connected to the connection manifold such that the filter housing inlet and outlet are each in fluid communication with one of the plurality of ports on the manifold.
US08408681B2	Liquid discharge head having an increased rigidity A liquid discharge head includes a plurality of nozzle arrays. A concave portion is formed on a back side of a head substrate, and all supply ports are formed in the bottom of the concave portion. The head substrate and a supporting member are bonded at the bottom of the concave portion so that the supply port and an introduction port communicate with each other. According to such a configuration, a ground contact area can be sufficiently secured, so that a liquid discharge head that is highly reliable and having high heat dissipation ability, and that can be manufactured with high productivity can be achieved.
US08408679B2	Printhead having CMOS drive circuitry A printhead is provided having a plurality of integrated circuits defining an elongate printing zone of at least 914 mm, each integrated circuit having a plurality of ejection nozzles, and CMOS drive circuitry operatively connected to the integrated circuits to drive operation thereof.
US08408678B2	Liquid ejection head and method for producing the same A liquid ejection head includes a substrate having an energy-generating device configured to generate energy used for ejecting a liquid from an orifice; a transparent channel wall member forming an inner wall of a channel leading to the orifice; and an intermediate layer disposed between and in contact with a surface of the substrate and the channel wall member and having a refractive index different from a refractive index of the channel wall member. The intermediate layer has a first outer end surface forming contours of a symbol as viewed in a direction from the orifice toward the substrate and making a first angle with the surface of the substrate and a second outer end surface facing the channel and making a second angle with the surface of the substrate. The first angle is an obtuse angle. The second angle is smaller than the first angle.
US08408674B1	System and method for incorporating inkjet printing into a printing press process This invention provides an inkjet print engine in combination with a conventional lithographic printing press so as to allow variable information to be applied to the fed sheets. Such information can include, but is not limited to, address information for mailing and/or special messages to the recipient. The system and method locates an inkjet printing head (single-color or multi-color) with respect to one of a number of locations along the print path. More particularly, the inkjet head can be located on a transverse carriage with movement is controlled by a conventional print head controller. The controller also addresses the formation of print at the head in conjunction with the movement of the carriage and also with respect to the movement of the sheet through the printing press. The locations at which the inkjet assembly can be located include the upstream or downstream blanket or plate rollers, the sheet in the region of the impression roller, the infeed region or the outfeed region.
US08408668B2	Recording apparatus A record head has an actuator which is selectively switchable between a small-capacity state in which the capacity of a pressure chamber connected to an outlet is V1 and a large-capacity state in which the capacity of the pressure chamber is V2 which is larger than V1. A head driving unit selectively supplies, to the actuator, ejection drive signals which change the state of the actuator to eject liquid from the outlet and non-ejection drive signals by which the state of the actuator is changed from the small-capacity state to the large-capacity state and then returns to the small-capacity state, to the extent that no ejection of the liquid occurs from the outlet. The head driving unit successively supplies the non-ejection drive signals to the actuator while causing at least one of a first time and a second time to repeatedly increase and decrease in length, the first time being a time from an increase timing at which the state is changed from the small-capacity state to the large-capacity state to a decrease timing at which the state is changed from the large-capacity state to the small-capacity state, and the second time being a time ranging from an input of a non-ejection drive signal to an input of a directly-subsequent non-ejection drive signal.
US08408663B2	Consumer appliance drawer with improved anti-racking system A consumer appliance, for example a refrigeration appliance, includes a compartment with a pull-out drawer. A slide member is configured on each opposite side of the compartment, with the drawer having a slide bracket mounted to each respective slide member for movement of pull-out drawer into and out of the compartment. A gear rail is configured on each opposite side of the compartment adjacent to the slide member. A gear assembly is mounted to each slide bracket and includes a first gear engaged with the gear rail and a pinion gear engaged with the first gear. The pinion gear has a rotational axis that is vertically displaced from the rotational axis of the first gear. A cross bar is connected between the pinion gears.
US08408661B2	Electronic device enclosure An electronic device enclosure includes a computer case, a mounting tray for receiving an expansion card and a fastening member. The computer case includes a front plate. A positioning slot and an opening are defined in the front plate. The fastening member includes a main body attached to the mounting tray and a latching plate connected to the main body. The latching plate is positioned in the positioning slot. An inserting portion is located on the latching plate and elastically engaged in the opening.
US08408657B2	Bed leveling system for dump truck A bed leveling system for a dump truck to prevent an imbalance of the truck bed during unloading of material. The system controls the side to side tilt of the truck bed and returns that bed to a generally level orientation when the bed tilt exceeds a predetermined angle. The truck bed is pivotally affixed to the truck chassis through a hinge pin. Thus, the tilting of the dump bed is carried out by a hydraulic system that changes the tilt of the hinge pin. The leveling system includes a cylindrical tube that supports the hinge pin and which is rotatable with respect to the chassis. A roll cylinder rotates the cylindrical tube to change the tilt angle of the hinge pin. A tilt sensor senses the out of level orientation of the truck bed and activates the leveling system to bring the bed back to a generally level orientation.
US08408651B2	Motor vehicle seat with an adjusting device A motor vehicle seat is provided with an adjusting device that includes, but is not limited to a longitudinal sliding device for sliding the motor vehicle seat in a longitudinal direction and a transverse sliding device for sliding the motor vehicle seat in transverse direction. The transverse sliding device includes, but is not limited to at least one swiveling lever which on the one hand is arranged on the longitudinal sliding device and on the other hand indirectly or directly on the motor vehicle seat. The swiveling lever can be swiveled from a first swiveling position, in which the motor vehicle seat is arranged in a transverse position, into a second swiveling position in which the motor vehicle seat relative to the first transverse position is arranged in transverse direction offset in a second transverse position.
US08408649B2	Walk-in seat A walk-in seat is provided, which has decreased number of components, and has a vacant space formed below a seat cushion so that the walk-in seat may be used even for a different-level seat track. The walk-in seat has a first control lever 171 for unlocking a first locking mechanism 100; a second control lever 181 for unlocking a second locking mechanism 100′; a memory mechanism 300 holding the first control lever 171 such that when a first upper rail 5 is located between a middle position and a foremost position with a seatback being tilted most forward, the first locking mechanism 100 is unlocked; first cable means FC operating such that when the seatback of a seat is tilted to a most forward position, the means FC drives the first control lever 171 to unlock the first locking mechanism 100; and second cable means SC transmitting operation of the first control lever 171 to the second control lever 181.
US08408647B2	Movable chair backrest A movable chair backrest is substantially composed of an upper board pivotally attached to a front of a backrest frame. A lower end of the upper board is connected to a lower board by a resilient sheet. A bouncing board connects between the lower board and the backrest frame. Therefore, the lower board operationally swings forward, backward, rightward, leftward relative to the upper board to correspond to different sitting and leaning postures of a user.
US08408645B2	Active head restraint utilizing solenoid activation and bar linkage transmission An active head restraint for supporting the head of an occupant, includes a shell, and an actuator disposed within the shell, wherein the actuator further includes a spring-biased bar linkage system pivotally coupled to the shell, a radial ratcheting sector coupled to the linkage system, a pawl selectively engaging the sector, and a solenoid drivenly coupled to the pawl, and configured, when activated, to cause the pawl to disengage the sector.
US08408643B2	Seat for powered aircraft, the seat incorporating means for protecting its passenger in the event of a crash A seat for a powered aircraft, the seat comprising a bucket (2) that is supported in hyperstatic manner on a stand. Leg members (7, 8) carry the bucket (2) via bolts (10). A first hinged mechanism for geometrically compensating deformation of the floor associates a ball-joint mounting of the bolts (10) on the leg members (7, 8) with an axial deformation arrangement of the bolts (10) between opposing axial bearing surfaces where they press against a strength member (9) of the bucket (2) and against the leg members (7, 8). A second energy-absorber mechanism associates fuses (22) with deformable support members (23) for the bucket (2), which members engage the bolts (10) and the leg members (7, 8) via slides (25) arranged to adjust the initial height position of the bucket (2).
US08408639B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat and head restraint assembly is disclosed in which the configuration of the seat back is automatically adjusted as the position of the head rest is changed. Upon lowering the head restraint, a forwardly directed face of the seat back is urged outward to thereby decrease a torso angle associate with the seat assembly. Additional versions are described in which the torso angle is decreased by raising the head rest. And, versions are described in which horizontal or pivotal movement of the head restraint causes movement of a forward face of the seat back.
US08408638B2	Reinforced vehicle structure A reinforced vehicle structure includes a first vehicle wall, a second vehicle wall, an accessory attachment member and a reinforcement member. The first vehicle wall has a first outer wall surface facing an outboard direction and a first inner wall surface facing an inboard direction. The second vehicle wall extends transverse to the first vehicle wall, and has a second outer wall surface facing a first direction and a second inner wall surface facing an opposite direction. The accessory attachment member is mounted to the first inner wall surface. The reinforcement member has a first end mounted to the accessory attachment member and a second end mounted to the second inner wall surface with the reinforcement member spanning the first and second vehicle walls such that the reinforcement member does not extend parallel to either of the first and second vehicle walls.
US08408636B1	Motor vehicles having bumper counter rotation brackets A motor vehicle includes a first side member having first lower and upper darts. The motor vehicle also includes a second side member parallel with and spaced apart from the first side member, the second side member having second lower and upper darts. The upper darts are positioned between the lower darts and end portions of the respective first or second side members. The motor vehicle further includes first and second bumper brackets coupled to the end portion of the respective first or second side members, a bumper reinforcement member coupled to the first and second bumper brackets, and a counter rotation bracket coupled to the bumper reinforcement member and extending upwards from the bumper reinforcement member. The lower darts and the upper darts form a preferential buckling zone of the first and the second side members.
US08408635B2	Energy-saving vehicle An energy-saving vehicle including a housing, a pair of front wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a steering wheel. The housing includes an outer portion, an inner portion, an air-flow channel, at least a first air inlet, and at least an air outlet. The air-flow channel is disposed between the outer portion and the inner portion of the housing. The first air inlet is disposed in the front of the vehicle. The air outlet is disposed at the back of the vehicle. The first air inlet and the air outlet are connected to the air-flow channel. The front wheels and the rear wheels are driven by a power unit. The length of the air-flow channel is no less than that of the upper portion of the housing. The vehicle consumes less energy and travels more stably compared to conventional vehicles.
US08408631B2	Vehicle seat easy entry assembly with position memory An adjustable memory track assembly for a vehicle seat has a lower rail adapted to be secured relative to a vehicle frame, and an upper rail adapted to support the seat for fore/aft sliding movement relative to the lower rail. The adjustable memory track assembly also has a track lock assembly operable via a first actuator between a locked, engaged state wherein relative movement between the lower and upper rails is resisted, and an unlocked, disengaged state wherein the seat can be slid to and then locked in a user-selected position. A memory module is operable via a second actuator to record the user-selected position. The second actuator is also operatively connected to disengage the track lock assembly to allow forward movement of the seat from the user-selected location to a forward location, and thereafter allow rearward movement of the seat back to, but not past, the user-selected location. The adjustable memory track assembly is characterized in that the memory module is provided with a blocking element to prevent rearward movement of the seat past the user-selected position independent of the locking state of the track lock assembly.
US08408630B2	Vehicle seat reclining apparatus A slide member is slidable along a slide rail provided at a vehicle-body side portion. When lock pawls provided at the slide member are engaged with the slide rail, the slide member is locked. The slide member is unlocked by operating an operation cable connected to the lock pawls. The operation cable is fitted to a fitting portion of an attachment bracket connected to the slide rail. A portion from a fixed portion fixed to the fitting portion to a movable portion (one end portion) extends through a region where a non-contact portion is disposed, and does not contact the non-contact portion. The movable portion is connected to the slide member and moved integrally with the slide member.
US08408628B2	Storable seat for vehicle A storable vehicle seat is provided, which can be rotationally moved smoothly and can further be prevented from wobbling in a seating state even though the storable vehicle seat has a structure in which the rotational path of the seat is defined by front and rear links.An elongated support hole 52 and a guide hole 53 are formed in a seat cushion frame 50, a rotational support shaft 30 which is rotatably engaged in the elongated support hole 52 to be relatively movable therein and a guide projection 60 which is engaged in the guide hole 53 to be movable therein are projected from an end of the front link 27, and an extension spring S is installed between the rotational support shaft 30 and a locking projection 56 of the seat cushion frame 50 to bias the rotational support shaft 30 rearwardly.
US08408624B2	Vehicle barrier A barrier for a vehicle that comprises a main section adapted to reside in a vehicle footwell and the main section has a width that is defined between opposite first and second ends thereof that is about half of a width of the vehicle footwell. A divider section is disposed substantially perpendicularly to the main section. The divider section is configured to rest on a vehicle seat. The divider section defines a length between opposite first and second ends thereof. The length of the divider section is substantially the distance from one of the first and second ends of the main section to a back of the vehicle seat, whereby the divider section is configured to define first and second discrete areas in the vehicle such that the divider section is located between the first and second discrete areas.
US08408620B2	Device having a handgrip for transporting containers A device for transporting containers includes a band (2) of limp material which is closed in a loop and which is joined at a transversal strip (3) defined by respective opposite end edges (2A, 2B). A slot is provided in a median position in the strip (3) for defining a handgrip (M), the band (2) being adapted to wrap around and support at least one container, such that the strip (3) is arranged at an upper and practically central position with respect to the container. The device can be provided with blocking structures (4) for preventing exit of the container from open sides thereof.
US08408615B1	Pickup device for animal waste An animal waste pickup device that has a handle, an elongate member and an upper pair of operating arms and a lower pair of operating arms located at the lower end of the elongate member. A fibrous material attaches to spiked material underlying the upper pair of arms. The upper arms are hingedly raised and lowered where the hinge connection is at the bottom of the elongate member. The lower pair of arms is configured to clamp together along a generally central point and the lower pair of arms further has spaced-apart apertures that are aligned to correspond with the spiked material such that the spiked material protrudes through the apertures a sufficient distance to engage the fibrous material. The lower pair of arms is operable using a grip trigger at the handle area that is in mechanical communication with the lower arms.
US08408611B2	Vehicle door handle device A vehicle door handle device whereby a door is kept in a locked state by a locking device even if excessive external force is applied to an operation handle. A vehicle door handle device includes a handle base with which an operation handle and a cable are integrated. The handle base has a first portion including a securing part fixed to a door panel, and a second portion including a handle attachment part and a cable fixing part. The handle base further has a weak part between the first portion and the second portion, the weak part being designed to have lower rupture strength than these portions.
US08408608B2	Hood hold down device A hood hold down device for securing a vehicle hood to a cab includes a cab mount assembly securable to a portion of the cab and a hood mount assembly securable to a portion of the hood. The hood hold down device further includes a linkage assembly extending from the cab mount assembly and a handle moveably coupled to the linkage assembly, wherein the handle is releasably securable to the hood mount assembly to secure the hood to the cab.
US08408606B2	Pipe clamp assembly with tightening element keeper A pipe clamp assembly including a band having an inner annular seal element wrappable around a pipe, opposing clamp members extending from the band, tightening elements for clamping together the clamp members, the tightening elements passing through holders located at ends of the clamp members, and a keeper fastened to one of the holders at a first end of at least one of the tightening elements, the keeper having a cover portion that lies over the first end.
US08408604B2	Quick connector A quick connector capable of surely confirming that a pipe body is engaged by a retainer when an elastically-deformable claw of the retainer and an elastically-deformable claw of a checker are adjacently arranged in an axial direction. Checker-axis direction elastically-deformable claws have distal-end sides formed flexibly deformable in the axial direction, maintain a state of being engaged by a second engagement portion of a retainer body by having deflective deformation regulated by a retainer diameter-expanding elastically-deformable claw in a state in which the retainer diameter-expanding elastically-deformable claw is expanded diametrically, and regulate sliding from a first position with respect to the retainer body toward a set radial direction by being engaged by the second engagement portion of the retainer body.
US08408601B1	Magnetic tire guard A magnetic tire guard for picking up metal objects before they come in contact with a tire of a vehicle featuring a flap. A curved indentation is disposed at the intersection of the first side edge and the top edge of the flap. A plurality of mounting holes is disposed in the flap along the curved indentation, allowing for attachment of the flap to a wheel well of a vehicle. A magnet is disposed at the bottom edge of the flap. The magnet functions to attract metal objects. The magnet is attached to the flap via a magnet attachment means.
US08408597B2	Airbag and airbag device A sewing thread of a sewn portion provided in an air chamber of an airbag is prevented from being cut during manufacturing, and damage to the airbag starting from an end of the sewn portion is suppressed. An inner connecting portion (30) provided in an air chamber of an airbag, at which opposing base fabrics are connected to each other, is formed of a first sewn portion (31) formed by sewing the base fabrics together so as to divide the air chamber, a second sewn portion (32) that surrounds an end (31T) of the first sewn portion (31) to protect it, and an adhesive layer (35) formed around the sewn portions (31) and (32). Ends (32T) of the second sewn portion (32) disposed on both sides of the first sewn portion (31) are formed such that they are continuously sewn toward an inner region (R) of the second sewn portion (32) along the end (31T) at a predetermined distance therefrom, such that they project further than the end (31T) of the first sewn portion (31), without intersecting the first sewn portion (31).
US08408592B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat is provided having a sufficient rigidity and strength as well as a lighter weight. It comprises cushion materials and skin materials on a seat frame and has a plurality of triangle or circular recesses and projections that are continuously formed in at least a part of the seat frame.
US08408591B2	Inflatable curtain airbags with expanded-volume lower portions for ejection mitigation An inflatable curtain airbag can be used to cushion an occupant during a vehicle collision as well as retaining the occupant within the vehicle during a rollover event. Curtain airbags that do not extend to the vehicle's waist line may allow the occupant to fit between the bottom of the curtain airbag and the waistline, and thereby be ejected from the vehicle. This risk is increased with vehicles that do not have vertical pillars between the doors and windows of the vehicle. Increasing an inflation gas volume capacity of a lower portion of the airbag, may mitigate the risk of occupant ejection, if the increased volume portion of the curtain overlaps the vehicle pillars. The lower portion of the curtain airbag may have a first chamber and a separate second chamber.
US08408588B2	Fixture having airbag outlet flap A fixture for a motor vehicle includes an airbag outlet flap in an airbag outlet region. In the region of the airbag outlet flap, at least one breaking point region is provided, along with at least one joint region. An airbag module is included that itself includes an airbag. A guide element is included such that, when the airbag is deployed, force is applied by the airbag on the guide element, force is applied to the airbag outlet flap.
US08408587B2	Dashboard support part having flap configuration A dashboard support part is provided for fastening on a dashboard of a motor vehicle, having an airbag exit opening for unfolding a passenger airbag, and a flap configuration, which is hinged on the dashboard support part and closes the airbag exit opening. The dashboard support part has a depression, in which the flap configuration is received. The flap configuration comprises a separate flap, which closes the entire airbag exit opening, is only connected to the dashboard support part along a hinge line, and rests in the depression along its remaining circumference.
US08408586B2	Curtain airbag device for vehicle A curtain airbag device for a vehicle has a curtain airbag main body 17 that is disposed along a longitudinal direction of a vehicle body while covered with an A pillar trim 41 and roof trim 42, and folded in an A pillar 7 and a roof side rail part 30 of the vehicle body so as to be able to deploy downward within a cabin. The curtain airbag main body 17 is provided with a twisted part 17b that is twisted such that an initial deployment force, generated upon inflation and deployment of the curtain airbag main body 17 located in a vicinity of the A pillar trim 41, is acted in a separation direction in which the A pillar trim 41 is parted away from the A pillar part 7, to push open the A pillar trim 41 toward an inside of the cabin. At least an upper surface of the twisted part 17b is regulated by a supporting bracket 21 and disposed in the vehicle body.
US08408583B2	Flangeless inflators and methods of making such inflators for use with inflatable airbag cushions Flangeless inflators include a body comprising a base member and a diffuser member coupled together, where the body is devoid of a lateral inflator-coupling flange. At least one fastener is coupled to the base member of the body. In an inflatable airbag system, the flangeless inflator is coupled to an airbag cushion, as well as to a steering wheel armature. In forming flangeless inflators, a body is formed that is devoid of the lateral inflator-coupling flange, and at least one fastener is attached to the body.
US08408581B1	Collapsible shopping cart device The collapsible shopping cart device provides a shopping cart with pivoting telescopic legs. Two spaced apart front legs mount to a pair of spaced apart leg pivots proximal to the basket bottom front. The pivoted legs provide for total collapse to the basket bottom or extension to positions that allow the basket to be selectively varied in height above a given surface such as a store floor. The basket may be provided with hinges between the basket sides and front and back and the basket bottom such that sides, front, and back may collapse for even greater collapsibility for either transport or storage. The sides, front and back are selectively locked in place when expanded. The seat bottom and back may be removable. The handle may be removable. The entire basket and its upwardly disposed components may therefore provide extreme compactability.
US08408579B2	Ski Ski adapted to receive a skier's boot, the ski having a front tip, a rear end, front and rear contact lines, and a central zone between the front tip and the rear end. The distance separating the forward contact line and the ski tip is greater than or about 500 mm. The shovel, located between the front tip and the forward contact line has a convex zone which includes a first shovel portion having a lateral profile extending between an arc of circle with a 9-meter radius and an arc of circle with a 5-meter radius; a second shovel portion contiguous with the first shovel portion and having a lateral profile extending between an arc of circle with a 9-meter radius and an arc of circle with a 1-meter radius; a third shovel portion contiguous to the second shovel portion and extending to the front tip of the ski.
US08408577B2	Height adjustable stow-away receiver hitch An adjustable hitch assembly including a mounting collar, a hitch base with a vertical post having a plurality of alternating square sections and circular sections, a hitch ball member having at least one hitch ball and a pivot shaft extending therefrom. The vertical post is slidably and rotatably received through the mounting collar; the pivot shaft is rotatably received in the mounting collar. The mounting collar, to which the hitch ball member is attached, may slide vertically along the vertical post and may rotate about the vertical post to adjust the height and angular position of the hitch ball member. The hitch ball member may have a plurality of variously sized hitch balls that a user may select by rotating the hitch ball member about the pivot shaft. A single rotatable latch pin received by the mounting collar engages and disengages the various components of the hitch assembly to allow adjustability.
US08408576B2	Off-road hitch assembly Disclosed is an improved all terrain vehicle (ATV) trailer hitch system, comprising a first and second pivotal joint connected by an elongated driveshaft for navigating uneven terrain and maneuvering through tight turns without joint binding or trailer tipping. The driveshaft comprises a length adjustable member having a first end connecting to a lead vehicle via a first pivotal joint that statically supports the joint and allows pitching of the driveshaft. The driveshaft second end attaches by way of a second pivotal and rotatable joint to a trailer attachment assembly. The trailer attachment assembly provides connection to the trailer and for receiving an elongated drive screw member that establishes a rotational joint. The second pivotal joint therefore provides yaw and roll capability for the trailer. The system provides a multiple joint connection separated by an elongated driveshaft between a vehicle and a trailer for reduced binding and off-road maneuvering.
US08408575B2	Vehicle body frame of motorcycle A vehicle body frame of a motorcycle comprises a front frame portion extending rearward from a head pipe, and a rear frame portion extending downward or rearward from a rear end of the front frame portion. The front frame portion includes at least a pair of right and left frame members. A front end of the rear frame portion is welded to a center cross member coupling rear ends of the frame members. The center cross member has a closed cross-section structure in which plate members are joined together in a forward and rearward direction. Thus, a fuel tank and devices can be laid out more flexibly from a location above the center cross member to a location behind the center cross member more flexibly and mounted more easily.
US08408572B2	Steering damper with active adjustment of damping characteristics A steering damper varies damping based upon the input source: the steering device or the ground contact parts. The device comprises a housing fixed on an attaching part that couples the steering device and the ground contact parts. A main chamber is partitioned into a first and second damping chamber and flow is at least partially controlled by a main valve unit. The opening area of the main valve unit is determined by a relative motion between the attaching part and the steering device.
US08408571B2	Retractable vehicle step A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having an upper stepping surface, a first arm, and a second arm. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The first and second arms can be generally planar linkages.
US08408570B2	Vehicle side fairing system A vehicle side fairing having a first fairing panel fixedly secured to the underside of a trailer box, and a second fairing panel slidable mounted to plural cylindrical bars mounted on the underside of the trailer box in a fore and aft orientation. The second fairing panel is secured to the wheel set with a mechanical fastener that selectively joins and releases the second fairing panel and the wheel set.
US08408568B2	Suspension apparatus A suspension apparatus includes a first suspension arm having a front end section pivotally supported on a vehicle body. The first suspension arm extends toward a rear of a vehicle from the front end section. A second suspension arm has an outer end section and an inner end section. The outer end section is attached to the first suspension. The inner end section is disposed at an inner side of the outer end section in a vehicle width direction and is pivotally supported on the vehicle body. An elastic joining section is provided on the second suspension arm and connects the second suspension arm to the first suspension arm with a plurality of elastic bodies disposed substantially in parallel in the vehicle width direction. A knuckle is supported by the first suspension arm and the wheel and is supported between the plurality of elastic bodies.
US08408560B2	Saddle riding type vehicle A saddle riding vehicle that allows the amount of roll to be reduced includes a vehicle body, a handle, and a suspension mechanism. The suspension mechanism is provided at a front portion of the vehicle body and supports a pair of left and right front wheels or a pair of left and right skis. The suspension mechanism includes a pair of left and right arm members and a pair of left and right air shock absorbers. The pair of left and right arm members supports the pair of front wheels or the pair of skis in a vertically movable manner. The pair of left and right air shock absorbers is coupled to the pair of arm members. The pair of left and right air shock absorbers each includes a cylinder, a piston, a piston rod, a first gas chamber, and a second gas chamber.
US08408556B2	Low and reverse pressure application hydrodynamic pressurizing seals The present invention relates to circumferential seal ring segments positioned around a rotating shaft so as to prevent fluids from leaking from a lubricant sump during both low and high pressure conditions. The circumferential seal is comprised of a plurality of adjoining annular ring segments facing the rotating shaft. Each sealing ring segment includes a dead end circumferential groove on a shaft-side face of each sealing ring such that, when the segments are joined, the circumferential dead end groove of each segment extends arcuately in the direction of shaft rotation. Additional grooves are contained on the shaft-side face of each sealing ring segment. The additional grooves direct and create pressurized air within the dead end circumferential groove, either directly or indirectly maintaining a seal between the ring segments and the shaft. The additional grooves are comprised of a first and a second axial bore groove extending perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the seal ring segment in fluid communication with the dead end circumferential groove so as to direct fluid flow generated from a rotating shaft into the dead end circumferential groove wherein the first axial bore groove is spaced at one end of the seal segment and the second axial bore groove is approximately centered on the seal segment. A bleed hole may also be provided to create a seal between each sealing segment.
US08408545B2	Auxiliary feed conveyor Apparatus for feeding sheets of paper printed by a printer to a sheet processing device is disclosed where the printer has a sheet discharge outlet and the processing device has a sheet inlet at a different location (e.g., a different height) than the discharge outlet. A sheet conveyor is provided for conveying the sheets from the sheet discharge outlet to the sheet inlet. The apparatus blows air to cool on each sheet as it is conveyed from the discharge outlet to the sheet inlet, and the apparatus at least partially eliminates static electricity from the sheets as they are conveyed.
US08408543B2	Banknote storage unit A banknote store includes a banknote storage roller, two banknote conveyor belts and two collection sprockets of said belts, each belt being wound on one side to the storage roller and on the other to one of the collection sprockets, the two belts being arranged to come into contact with the banknotes respectively on opposite faces, a handling device being present to move the roller, the sprockets and the belts so as to alternatively realize the storage of the banknotes on the roller or their release from the store. The collection sprockets are mounted on a same shaft.
US08408542B2	Media processing device A media processing device enables opening an openable unit so that the media transportation path is open with a minimal operation and little operating force. The media processing device has an openable unit that can rotate on a first pivot axis CL1 from a closed position to an open position; a lock member that can move to a locked position where it locks the openable unit in the closed position and an unlocked position where the lock is released; and an operating lever that can rotate on a second pivot axis CL2 through a range from a first pivot position passed a second pivot position to a third pivot position. A first cam mechanism converts rotation of the operating lever from the second pivot position to the third pivot position to rotation of the openable unit from the closed position to the open position.
US08408541B2	Method and apparatus for controlling transfer of paper A method and apparatus for controlling transfer of paper. In order to align the leading end of a sheet of paper, when the sheet arrives at a predetermined position in an image forming apparatus, a registration unit is stopped from operating and a driving unit that transfers the sheet from an auxiliary paper-feeding unit is also stopped from operating so that bending and crumpling of the sheet can be minimized.
US08408535B2	Attachment assist device and image forming apparatus employing the attachment assist device An attachment assist device includes an engaging member, an engaged member, a drawing-force generator, biasing members, and rotational members. The engaging member is provided at one of a main unit and a sub unit detachably attached to the main unit. The engaged member is engaged by the engaging member and provided at the other of the main unit and the sub unit. The drawing-force generator generates a drawing force to draw the sub unit into an interior of the main unit. The biasing members are provided at the drawing-force generator to generate biasing forces in different directions. The rotational members are provided rotatably around support points at the drawing-force generator and engaged with the biasing members. The biasing members are serially connected with the rotational members to convert the biasing forces of the biasing members to the drawing force.
US08408529B2	Clamp The problem of firmly gripping a cylindrical component over a range of permitted diameters is solved by providing a protrusion on the surface of a cantilevered seat, the seat being substantially complementarily curved to accommodate the cylindrical component. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention a clamp for holding a cylindrical component is provided comprising at least one curved seat having at least one protrusion, the curved seat being cantilevered by a first end. The protrusion is configured to contact the cylindrical component under load such that a concentrated load is exerted on the curved seat between a first end and a second end causing the curved seat to be elastically deflected.
US08408527B2	Multiple jaw vise and method of making the same A two jaw vise having a base extending in a longitudinal direction between two ends, a central fixed block and opposing jaws on either side of the central block. The opposing jaws being movable longitudinally and joined to the base for controlled movement longitudinally. The base including a base block extending longitudinally between the first and second ends and including first and second longitudinally extending rails. The first and second rails extending parallel to the base block and being spaced from the base block. The first and second rails at least partially forming the controlled movement of the jaws. The base further including first and second pluralities of vertically extending columns extending between the base block and the first and second rails, respectively. The base including at least one gap between adjacent columns.
US08408523B2	Baluster with beveled end A baluster with beveled end having, near one or both ends of the baluster, the perimeter of the baluster proceed increasingly more inward as such end of the baluster is approached. There is some indentation at all points along the perimeter, although such indentation need not necessarily be uniform.
US08408516B2	Fluid pressure control device with integrated pressure sensor Provided is a fluid pressure control device that includes an actuator and a body configured to house the actuator. The body has an opening arranged to receive pressurized fluid. The fluid pressure control device additionally includes a pressure sensor incorporated into the body relative to the opening to sense fluid pressure and to generate an electrical signal indicative of the sensed pressure. Furthermore, the fluid pressure control device includes an integrated circuit incorporated into the body, and operatively connected to the pressure sensor. The integrated circuit includes a transceiver configured to communicate with an external device by transmitting the electrical signal indicative of the sensed fluid pressure to the external device and receiving a control signal from the external device. The integrated circuit additionally includes a driver configured to power the actuator in response to the control signal.
US08408513B2	Holder systems for mobile devices A holder system for mobile devices includes a generally rectangular holder base and a holder configured to secure the mobile device therein. The holder may be removably attachable to the holder base. A retractor mechanism may be attached to the holder base. The holder base includes a pair of spaced cord ports, each cord port receiving a line part of a retractable cord that is engaged to the retractor mechanism.
US08408512B2	Bayonet mirror mount A mount for mounting a mirror on a knife. The knife has a blade, a blade tip, and a handle. The mount has a base that is configured to engage a mirror, and a housing that is coupled with the base. The housing defines a cavity that is configured for receiving at least a portion of the knife blade such that the blade tip is substantially enclosed by the housing when the blade is positioned in the cavity. Preferably, the housing encloses approximately between 1 to 5 inches of the knife blade.
US08408507B2	Locking device A locking device includes: a pivot rod extending through a connecting block of a U-shaped seat and through a connecting block of a rotary cover such that the rotary cover is rotatable relative to the seat between unlocking and locking positions; a resilient member for biasing the rotary cover to move toward the locking position; and a position-limiting unit including a guiding groove formed in one of the connecting block and the pivot block, and a guiding rod provided on the other one of the connecting block and the pivot block, and extending into and engaging movably the guiding groove. When the guiding rod is limited and engaged in one end of the guiding groove, the rotary cover is positioned at the unlocking position, where the rotary cover is spaced apart from the seat.
US08408505B2	Display support device and display using the same A display support device includes a fixing base, a connecting member mounted on the fixing base, a frame connected on the connecting member, and an expanding bracket mounted on the frame. The frame includes a hold plate. The hole plate defines two first slots. The expanding bracket includes two first expanding bars and two second expanding bars. Each of the first expanding bars defines a number of through holes. Each of the second expanding bars defines two second slots. A number of first fasteners slidably extend through the first slots and the second extending bars to adjustably mount the second expanding bars to the hold plate. And a number of second fasteners slidably extend through the second slots and the through holes of the first expanding bars and are mounted to a display.
US08408504B1	Television support assembly A television support assembly includes a vertical support that has a top end and a bottom end. The vertical support is engageable with a bed frame. A monitor support is attached to the upper end. A panel is attached to the monitor support. The panel is configured to receive fasteners to hold a monitor on the panel. The panel has a bottom side facing downward and is angled between 10° and 50° with respect to a horizontal plane such that the bottom side is angled toward the vertical support.
US08408502B2	Thin design display apparatus and display unit detachment method In order to provide a display monitor, such as a thin design television or the like, in which its display unit is easily attachable and detachable from the stand structure and can be easily carried about, and where the place of installation of the display unit is not limited, a stand type thin design television includes a display unit (1), a joint body (15), a pillar (25) and a stand base (29). The joint body (15) is attached to the display unit (1) while the joint body (15) is free to be attached to and removed from the pillar (25) that is fixed to the stand base (29). In the first usage mode in which the pillar (25) and the stand base (29) are used, the joint (15) is inserted into the pillar (25). In the second usage mode in which the pillar (25) and the stand base (29) are not used, the joint body (15) itself is used as a stand.
US08408501B2	Hose clamp for tractor rig A hose clamp includes a hanger configured to be suspended from a harness. A clasp defines lower pockets and is rotatably attached to the hanger by a hinge. The clasp is configured to rotate about the hinge between an open position, in which flexible lines can be laid into the pockets, and a closed position in which the hanger and the clasp together surround and capture the lines in the respective pockets. A latch is configured to latch the clasp in the closed position.
US08408499B2	Aircraft The invention provides according to one aspect an aircraft, comprising a fuselage, an airfoil mounted to the fuselage and a flap for steering the aircraft. Furthermore, connecting means articularly connect the flap to the airfoil such that the flap is allowed to rotate around a rotation axis substantial parallel to the trailing or leading edge of the airfoil between a retracted position and an extended position and to translate in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis. A rod articularly connect the flap to the airfoil or to the fuselage, wherein the rod defines the translation of the flap in the direction parallel to the rotation axis. Hence, by way of one aspect of the invention, forces acting of the flap in a direction parallel to the rotation axis can be taken up by the rod. Consequently, there is no need for using locating bearings having negative aerodynamic effects due to their by comparison large dimensions in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of flight of the aircraft.
US08408494B2	Airbag system for aircraft The invention relates to an airbag system for aircraft, intended to protect crew and passengers. The system comprises: inflatable cushions; a supply of air from individual tanks, communal tanks and the aircraft APU; a connection to the landing gear and the altimeter; a manual switch; an approach and contact sensor enabling automatic activation; electric lines, electrovalves and air ducts. The system also includes a second version which is activated using electrochemical batteries which operate on the basis of sharp deceleration.
US08408490B2	Oblique blended wing body aircraft An oblique wing aircraft (1) designed for reduced surface area to volume ratio. The aircraft has an oblique wing comprising a forward swept wing segment (27) on one side of the wing and an aft swept wing segment (29) on the opposite side of the wing. A center oblique airfoil section (25) connects the forward and aft swept wing segments. The center oblique airfoil section has a larger chord near its centerline than the chords of either of the forward or aft swept wing segments. The chord of the center oblique airfoil section tapers down more rapidly than the forward or aft wing segments as the center oblique airfoil section extends outboard toward the forward and aft swept wings. The center oblique airfoil section is not shaped solely to function as a circular fairing to fill the gap between an oblique wing and a fuselage at different oblique wing angles, nor is it a second wing in an X wing configuration. Preferably, the aircraft is an all-wing aircraft.
US08408489B2	Annular airborne vehicle An airborne vehicle having a wing-body which defines a wing-body axis and appears substantially annular when viewed along the wing-body axis, the interior of the annulus defining a duct which is open at both ends. A propulsion system is provided comprising one or more pairs of propulsion devices, each pair comprising a first propulsion device mounted to the wing-body and positioned on a first side of a plane including the wing-body axis, and a second propulsion device mounted to the wing-body and positioned on a second side of the plane including the wing-body axis.
US08408488B2	Safety flier—a parachute-glider air-vehicle with vertical take-off and landing capability One embodiment of a Vertical Take-off and Landing (VToL) air-vehicle (FIG. 1.) having a horizontal rotor, a. providing lift and propulsion, and communicating at or near its centre to structural elements, or fuselage, b. Upon or within the fuselage structure is attached a platform, to which a payload, or occupant or pilot, d. is secured in such a manner as to permit a movement, or range-of-motion, of the payload, as a means of weight-shifting, or mass-balancing, of the vehicle for stability and control in flight. At least two planar elements, or descent-vanes, c.i & c.ii are connected to a structural element of the fuselage at a location which provides vertical and horizontal separation between the rotor and the descent-vanes, thus creating a tandem, biplane arrangement of two aerodynamically active elements which are aerodynamically balanced to provide stability and controllability in hovering flight, in forward flight, and in un-powered gliding and vertical descents. Other embodiments are described and shown.
US08408487B2	Rolled material dispenser with energy harvesting An automatic dispenser for a rolled material has a sensor that detects the presence of a user in front of the dispenser. When that occurs, a motor is driven by energy stored in a battery or a capacitor and a short length of the material is dispensed from the roll. The user then grasps that short length and pulls more of the material off the roll, thereby causing the roll to rotate. Rotation of the roll drives the motor as a generator producing electrical energy that recharges the battery or capacitor.
US08408485B2	Skid steer mixer attachment A mixer attachment for use with a skid steer. In one embodiment, the mixer attachment includes a mixing tub with a circumferential wall extending between a floor and a rim to define an interior compartment for holding a quantity of material. An auger may be provided that mixes the materials and is driven by a hydraulic drive unit. In some embodiments, one or more material retarders extend into the interior compartment to impede movement of the material within the interior compartment. A discharge chute allows discharge of material from the interior compartment. The mixing tub is movable between a scooping position and a mixing position.
US08408482B2	Sprinkler with pressure regulation A sprinkler pressure regulator module has a compact arrangement with a shiftable member having an upper cavity for receiving water flow debris, and a portion of a bypass valve may reciprocate therein. The module includes a stator plate directing water into a drive mechanism, such as a turbine drive mechanism. The shiftable member receives fluid flow from a radially outboard direction and is sealed with a cup portion receiving the shiftable member to define a cup cavity. A module exterior surface is separated from a sprinkler housing to define a vent cavity. A pressure release vent communicates with the cup cavity, a vent channel between the cup portion and the exterior surface, the vent cavity, and the exterior environment. The vent cavity and cup portion provide receptacles for debris deposit. Ribs around an opening of the vent channel with the vent cavity generally prevent debris from entering the vent channel.
US08408481B1	Mobile fragrance-dispensing device resembling a pet A mobile fragrance-dispensing device resembling a pet. The device features a base with an inner cavity for storing a fragrance canister, a microprocessor, wheels disposed on the ends of the legs on the base, and a motor with steering mechanism operatively connected to each wheel. A dispenser system is fluidly connectable to the fragrance canister. The dispenser system functions to spray fragrance from said fragrance canister when activated. A motion sensor is disposed on the head of the base, wherein when the motion sensor is activated the microprocessor activates the dispensing system for a certain length of time.
US08408476B2	Length measurement system based on optical recognition pattern for length measurement An optical recognition pattern for length measurement is mounted on an optical contact surface and includes a plurality of optical recognition units, each of which corresponds to a length value. The sequence of the optical recognition units on the optical contact surface is consistent with that of the corresponding length values in such a way that the optical recognition pattern imitating the conventional measuring ruler can be constituted. Besides, the optical recognition pattern can further work with an optical recognition device to constitute a length measurement system that the optical recognition is applied to.
US08408473B2	Method for producing an RFID transponder product, and RFID transponder product produced using the method A method is provided for producing an arrangement, which, for example, may be used for further processing into a non-contact chip card or an identification document and which comprises a multi-layer structure, with a first part of an RFID antenna, at least comprising a coil-shaped antenna structure and a connecting structure, being arranged on a carrier layer and the chip being directly mounted on this part of the antenna structure and contacted, with a compensation layer being arranged thereabove, which in the area of the chip comprises an embedding opening and which comprises at least two contacting openings in the intersection area of the first part of the RFID antenna with a bridge structure, which is located on a cover layer, and subsequently the individual layers being connected to each other via lamination.
US08408470B2	Object for authentication verification, authentication verifying chip reading device and authentication judging method A structure of a subject such as a card, a bank note, or a stock certificate easily faked and needing authenticity validation and a method for judging the authenticity of the subject. An authenticity validation chip having structural color developers irregularly arranged is attached to a card. An optical sensor detects the arrangement of the structural color developers to individually recognize the card or judge its authenticity. To validate the authenticity, when or after the card is taken in, the information in the authenticity validation chip provided on the card is read. Each of the structural color developers is a transparent resin flake or a transparent resin thin layer. The information is read two-dimensionally with a camera, and the authenticity of the authenticity validation chip is judged by observing the distributed state of the structural color developers. Alternatively, the information can be read linearly. A given straight or curved line can be used by altering the read portion while associating the shape of the read line with the movement of the card in taking in the card.
US08408468B2	Method of and system for reading visible and/or invisible code symbols in a user-transparent manner using visible/invisible illumination source switching during data capture and processing operations Method of and system for reading visible and/or invisible code symbols in a user-transparent manner using visible/invisible illumination switching during data capture and processing operations.
US08408461B2	System and method for image analysis pointing-error correction The disclosure relates to a system and a method for light beam interrogation of an optical biosensor and for monitoring a biological event on the biosensor for use, for example, in microplate image analysis. The system and method correct pointing-errors that can be encountered, for example, in scanning label-independent-detection biosensor applications.
US08408460B2	Auto adjusting ranging device A ranging system for use with a projectile launching device is provided. The ranging system includes an alignment marker visible with an optical sight device. The position of the alignment marker is adjusted based at least on a determined range to a target.
US08408456B2	Systems and methods for controlling access to media content by detecting one or more user fingerprints A system includes a media content processing subsystem and user input device having a plurality of control surfaces each configured to cause the input device to transmit at least one command to the media content processing subsystem. The input device is configured to acquire an image of a fingerprint of a finger touching the control surface and cause the processing subsystem to execute the command in accordance with a user profile that corresponds to the acquired fingerprint image.
US08408455B1	System and method for granting promotional rewards to both customers and non-customers Aspects of the invention include systems and methods of using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) to access a rewards account. The customer may access the ATM using a card or other device. Account information associated with the customer, including a rewards account, may be retrieved by the ATM. Through the ATM, the customer may perform actions upon the rewards account. The actions may include, but are not limited to, a balance inquiry, a withdrawal and/or redemption, an account transfer, and preferences. Subsequent to, or coincident with, a withdrawal/redemption or account transfer, the rewards account may be debited an appropriate amount to equate to the amount of the withdrawal/redemption or account transfer. Following the completion of the customer's transaction, a receipt may be dispensed from the ATM. The receipt may include the rewards account balance.
US08408454B2	Multifunctional portable consumer payment device A card can be used to make a payment or to gain access to a secure facility. The card embeds a chip, a passive circuit, and an antennae that receives frequencies upon which the chip executes corresponding payment and access applications. The passive circuit powers the chip upon being energized by an external circuit that emits the frequencies. The card docks into a card dock having a user interface. The user interface has buttons which, when particularly engaged, permits reception of one of the frequencies that energizes the passive circuit to power the chip for the execution of the corresponding application.
US08408451B2	Reclosable folding box with tamper-evident closure without adhesive A reclosable folding box of cardboard with at least one tamper-evident closure is provided, which comprises a lid flap with an insertion tab, a cover tab, and a cutout. The tamper-evident closure of the reclosable folding box can be closed by machine without the need for gluing, and the tamper-evident closure can be opened only by destroying the tamper-evident closure. The insertion tab comprises at least one tear-off tab, to which it is connected along one side by at least one first predetermined break line. The tamper-evident closure is set up in such a way that, when the reclosable folding box is opened for the first time, the insertion tab cooperates in the cutout with the cover tab, so that, when the insertion tab moves beyond a breaking point, the at least one tear-off tab tears at least partially along the at least one first predetermined break line. Alternatively, the cover tab comprises at least one second predetermined break line, and the tamper-evident closure is set up in such a way that, when the reclosable folding box is opened for the first time, the insertion tab cooperates in the cutout with the cover tab, so that, when the insertion tab moves beyond a breaking point, the cover tab is torn at least partially along the at least one second predetermined break line.
US08408450B2	Packaging methods and packs made thereby A packaging configuration is disclosed. The packaging configuration comprises a sheet of packaging film having a leading end portion and a trailing end portion. The sheet is formed into a tube such that the leading end portion and the trailing end portion overlap each other to form an overlapped region having overlapping films. The overlapped region comprises a tear line region along a tear line extending in a machine direction. The sheet further comprises a tab having an attached end attached to the sheet at the leading end portion and a free end opposite to the attached end. The overlapping films in at least a portion of the overlapped region are sealed against each other; and the overlapping films within the tear line region are not sealed against each other or are less strongly sealed against each other than the overlapping films outside the tear line region.
US08408447B2	Method for manufacturing a module with a hollow area by hot isostatic compression A method for manufacturing a module with a hollow area by hot isostatic compression, including: making an assembly including superposed elements defining the hollow area, the assembly forming a sealed casing containing the hollow area, including at least one meltable obturation member separating the hollow area from the outside of the assembly; followed by hot isostatic compression of the assembly, to obtain diffusion-welding of its elements, by letting temperature and pressure conditions change over time to cause a rupture of the meltable obturation member allowing pressurization gas to penetrate into the hollow area.
US08408442B2	Tool assembly for a surgical stapling device A surgical device comprising an anvil, a cartridge assembly, a dynamic clamping member, a clamp ring and a drive mechanism is disclosed. The cartridge assembly is configured to house a plurality of fasteners at least partially therein. The anvil and cartridge assembly are movable in relation to each other between open and approximated positions. The dynamic clamping member is slidably positioned to translate at least partially through the cartridge assembly to eject fasteners therefrom. The dynamic clamping member engages the anvil and the cartridge assembly. The clamp ring is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position at least partially encircling proximal portions of the anvil and cartridge assembly for preventing a gap between proximal portions of the anvil and cartridge assembly from exceeding a predetermined distance. The drive mechanism includes a single actuator for driving both the clamp ring and the dynamic clamping member.
US08408439B2	Surgical stapling instrument with an articulatable end effector In various embodiments, a surgical instrument can comprise an end effector including a channel configured to support a staple cartridge and, in addition, an anvil pivotable between open and closed positions relative to the staple cartridge channel. The surgical instrument can further comprise a closure tube configured to at least partially surround the anvil and the staple cartridge channel to hold the anvil in a closed position. The closure tube can extend around the anvil a greater distance than the staple cartridge channel. The surgical instrument can further comprise a shaft and, in addition, an articulation joint pivotably connecting the end effector to the shaft. The articulation joint can further comprise a floating guide member which can guidably support a knife bar extending into the end effector and, at the same time, move independently of the end effector and the shaft to provide such support.
US08408438B2	Easy grip tool-free depth-of-drive adjustment An adjustable depth-of-drive assembly for use with a fastener-driving tool upper probe includes a workpiece contact element carried on the upper probe and having a contact end and an adjustment end, a stop configured for being secured to the upper probe and being moveable between an adjusting position in which the workpiece contact element is movable relative to the upper probe, and a locked position wherein the adjustment end is secured against movement relative to the upper probe, a biasing element associated with the stop and configured for urging the stop and the adjustment end into a selected locked position relative to the upper probe with a biasing force, and at least one camming element carried on the stop for selective camming engagement between the upper probe and the stop by means of a user's manual force to urge the stop into the adjusting position against the biasing element force.
US08408436B2	Wearable device assembly having athletic functionality A wearable device has a carrier having an aperture. A device has a USB connection and a protrusion wherein the protrusion is received in the aperture to connect the device to the carrier. The device is a USB type device having athletic functionality.
US08408435B2	Baby harness The present invention concerns a small and neat harness (1) of light weight, which may be carried by the child as a garment, and which gives the child ample freedom of movement when it walks on its own, yet support while being carried. The harness may swiftly be coupled to and from a carrying strap (14) in order to carry the child, or for example to a pram or chair as a safety harness. The harness (1) may in addition be used as a walking or safety harness when the child wants to walk by itself.
US08408434B2	Clothes hanger The invention discloses five embodiments of hangers for clothes having a first crossbar forming together with means for arranging the hanger on a support a main frame, which comprises an additional second crossbar having a free end for hanging trousers and capable of moving it in space into various positions relative to the main frame and its subsequent pressing to the first crossbar.
US08408432B2	Dispensing closure The present invention relates to a dispensing closure for a container, said dispensing closure comprising: a base (200) and mounting means (200) on said base for mounting said base to a container at an opening of the container, said base also constituting an outer side-wall (240) of said closure; a dispensing element (100) having a dispensing channel (160) and a discharge opening (164) said dispensing element being movable between a closed position and an open position; said dispensing element comprising at least one operational control element (142), at least partially extending into at least one opening (242) in said outer side wall of said base to be accessible by a user in order to move said dispensing element between said closed and said open position; said dispensing closure being arranged such that said discharge opening is closed by said outer sidewall of said base, when said dispensing element is in its closed position, and/or such that said dispensing channel is closed by a shut-off element (260) of said base, when said dispensing element is in its closed position.
US08408431B2	Valve A fluid dispenser valve having a valve body (10) containing a metering chamber (20), and a valve member (30) that is slidable in the valve body (10) between a rest position and a dispensing position so as to dispense the contents of the metering chamber (20) selectively. The valve member (30) is urged resiliently towards its rest position by a spring (8) that co-operates firstly with the valve body (10) and secondly with a radial collar (320) of the valve member (30), the radial collar (320) being of a shape that is polygonal, the vertices (325) of the polygon being substantially rounded.
US08408427B2	Single dose nasal spray pump In one or more embodiments a single dose nasal spray pump includes a reservoir configured for holding a single dose of material to be dispensed, the reservoir extending between a closed end and an open end; a cap to be configured to be disposed over the open end of the reservoir, the cap including an aperture; a stem extending between an outlet end and a lower end, the stem having a conduit extending from the outlet end of the stem to a conduit inlet at or adjacent the lower end of the stem; and a piston disposed about the stem and configured for movement between a first position wherein the piston seals or substantially seals the conduit inlet and a second position wherein the piston is remote from the conduit inlet; wherein the stem is configured for movement from a first stem position wherein the piston is disposed in the reservoir in the first piston position and a second stem position wherein the stem is moved toward the closed end of the reservoir such that the piston is moved into the second piston position.
US08408424B2	Active hopper for promoting flow of bulk granular or powdered solids An apparatus that promotes the flow of materials has a body having an inner shape for holding the materials, a wall having a shape that approximates a portion of the inner shape of the body, and a vibrator attached to the wall. The wall may be disposed vertically within the body close to the body's inner shape. The vibrator transfers vibrations to the wall to agitate the material and encourage material flow.
US08408423B1	Method and apparatus for dispensing sanitizer fluid A method and apparatus for dispensing sanitizer fluid from a door handle. The apparatus includes a handle having a nozzle, an actuator fluidly coupled to the nozzle, and a cartridge of sanitizer fluid fluidly coupled to the actuator. Manipulation of the handle causes the actuator to dispense sanitizer fluid from the nozzle.
US08408422B2	Device for fastening a dispensing pump on a bottle containing a product A device for fastening a dispensing pump on a bottle containing a product, a sleeve fastening the pump and fastening on the bottle, a dressing hoop intended to be mounted by axial sliding around a peripheral seating of the sleeve, the peripheral seating having axial splines and the internal wall of the hoop having axial ribs which are arranged to be placed in the splines during the mounting of the hoop around the seating.
US08408421B2	Flow regulating stopcocks and related methods A dispenser using a stopcock valve has a first and second chamber. The first chamber has a flow material and is pressurized with air. The first chamber is connected to a stopcock valve that holds a second chamber which has a pressure sensor when the stopcock valve is rotated to the proper orientation. The stopcock valve is then rotated to a dispensing position where the flow material is dispensed under pressure to an outlet. By using the air pressure sensor and by taking into consideration the volume of the second chamber, the amount of flow of material can be dosed out consistently.
US08408419B2	Slanted sheet dispenser A sheet dispenser is defined by at least six panels having outwardly facing surfaces, wherein at least one of the panels is oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the other panels. Sheets may be dispensed from an opening located on the oblique surface. The sheet dispenser may sit on a surface such as a countertop for dispensing, or may be placed between a wall and other structure attached to the wall such as a towel bar. Furthermore, the sheet dispenser may be hung from a structure using a strap attached to the towel dispenser.
US08408415B2	Fuel tank cap for a fuel tank A fuel tank cap includes a housing having a side wall, a bottom wall, and a receptacle, a fuel vapor adsorption material positioned within the receptacle, an inlet at least partially defined by the bottom wall and configured to provide fluid communication with a fuel tank vapor space, an outlet at least partially defined by the bottom wall and configured to provide fluid communication with the atmosphere, an internal wall extending from the bottom wall at least partially into the receptacle, and an aperture at least partially defined by the internal wall and configured to permit fuel vapor to flow in a vapor flow path from one side of the internal wall to the other side of the internal wall.
US08408408B1	Nipple assembly and mounting tools Nipple assemblies including nipples which attach to a threaded nipple adapter which can be attached to feeding containers with threaded spouts are disclosed. Mounting tools are also disclosed, to aid in attaching the elastic nipples to the adapters.
US08408407B2	Knuckle formed through the use of improved external and internal sand cores and method of manufacture A method for manufacturing a railcar coupler knuckle, said method includes providing a cope mold portion and a drag mold portion. The cope and drag mold portions have internal walls that define at least in part perimeter boundaries of a coupler knuckle mold cavity. At least one chill core is positioned within one of the cope mold portion and the drag mold portion. The cope and drag mold portions are closed, with the at least one core therebetween, and the closed cope and drag mold portions and the chill core define a parting line. The mold cavity is filled with a molten metal, which solidifies after filling to form a casting. The casting includes a pulling face portion defined by the chill core, and a central section of the pulling face portion does not contain the parting line and requires no finish grinding upon its formation.
US08408406B2	Central datum feature on railroad coupler body and corresponding gauges A coupler body for a railcar coupler, said coupler body comprising at least one central datum feature that does not wear during coupler use.
US08408405B2	Shelving system A shelving system including an elongated support member and a plurality of shelves, each of which can be supported by a clamping mechanism. The support member has a telescoping configuration so that upper and lower ends of the support member can be pressed against upper and lower stationary objects. The clamping mechanism allows the plurality of shelves to be adjusted both vertically and laterally along a length of the elongated support member.
US08408400B2	Limpness detecting device, limpness detecting method, and sheet handling apparatus including limpness detecting device According to one embodiment, a limpness detecting device includes a transmitting unit to irradiate an acoustic wave towards a conveyed sheet to excite a Lamb wave, a first receiving unit to detect a leaky wave of the Lamb wave emitted from a front surface of the sheet, a second receiving unit to detect a leaky wave of the Lamb wave emitted from a back surface of the sheet, a comparison data calculating unit to calculate comparison data based on the signal detected by the first receiving unit and the signal detected by the second receiving unit, and an intactness judgment unit to compare the comparison data calculated by the comparison data calculating unit with a preset standard value and judge whether the sheet is an intact bill or not, based on a result of the comparison.
US08408393B2	Packaged toy with selector The present disclosure is directed generally to product packaging and, more specifically, to product packaging assemblies with try-me toys that may allow a consumer to visualize, experiment, and design various looks available in the product line at the point of purchase while the product remains in the product packaging and after purchase.
US08408390B2	Smoking accessory A smoking accessory. The accessory includes a base having an upper surface with two openings. A first of the openings providing access to a pipe receptacle extending into the base from the first opening. A second of the openings providing access to a tobacco receptacle extending into the base from the second opening. The accessory includes a lid pivotally connected to the base by a hinge located above the upper surface of the base for selective movement in directions toward and away from the smoking pipe receptacle and the tobacco receptacle between an open position and a closed position.
US08408389B1	Button activated dispensing cap for a liquid container A three piece sealed dispensing and storage cap that is inserted onto the neck of a liquid bearing container threaded neck of a bottle, said device being a storage chamber for sealably containing a liquid and/or dry material and a dispenser for releasing the material when desired into the primary container. The dispensing cap may include a desiccant to prevent moisture from reaching the storage chamber. The bottom seal that is frangible and ruptured to activate the device may include a line of weakening. The button top is depressed manually forcing an actuator against the bottom of the cap body seal to rip away the bottom seal dispensing the material. The present invention allows the use of materials that would discolor, degrade or interact with other substances when added to the contents of the bottle, to remain stable and/or inactive until the time of use.
US08408388B1	Locking structure for a tool box A locking structure for the box body is provided with a box body, a handle, and a cover. The handle is a rotatable structure which can support the box body to make the box body stand in an inclined manner, so as to allow the user to have a full clear view of the hand tools inside the tool box. On top of that, the tool box offers an antitheft feature, when the tool box is closed, the cover cannot be opened and removed from the box body unless the locking ends of the retainers are destroyed. Therefore, the hand tools cannot be taken out of the tool box without permission.
US08408383B2	Methods for mounting or removing belts from telescoping conveyor mechanisms that cooperate with packaging systems having clippers Methods of mounting a conveyor belt to a telescoping conveyor include: (a) providing a conveyor belt configured to mount to a telescoping conveyor mechanism; (b) pivoting a first idler roller to an operative fixed position; and (c) translating an idler residing below the first idler roller upward and rearward into its respective operative fixed position to thereby mount a telescoping conveyor belt.
US08408379B2	Parts manipulation, inspection, and replacement Manufacturing lines include inspection systems for monitoring the quality of parts produced. Manufacturing lines for making semiconductor devices generally inspect each fabricated part. The information obtained is used to fix manufacturing problems in the semiconductor fab plant. A machine-vision system for inspecting devices includes a flipper mechanism. After being inspected at a first station, a tray-transfer device moves the tray from the first inspection station to a flipper mechanism. The flipper mechanism includes two jaws, a mover, and a rotator. The flipper mechanism turns the devices over and places the devices in a second tray so that another surface of the device can be inspected. A second tray-transfer device moves the second tray from the flipper to a second inspection station. The mover of the flipper mechanism removes the tray from the first inspection surface and places a tray at the second inspection surface.
US08408373B2	Clutch unit The invention relates to a clutch unit, which has two subunits. One subunit is connected to the output shaft of an engine, and the other subunit is pre-mounted on the side of the transmission. Both subunits are coupled to one another via an axial plug-type connection, which includes meshing first profiles and second profiles.
US08408369B2	Bimetallic brake rotor A bimetallic brake rotor includes a rotor body composed of a first material and a pair of cheek inserts serving as the rotor cheeks, being composed of a second material less dense than the first material. Each of the cheek inserts has a first sequence of slots and teeth, and a disc component of the rotor body has a second sequence of slots and teeth on each side thereof which mesh with the first sequence such that a radial edge interface is provided at each adjoining tooth and slot which transfers braking heat and mechanical loading from the cheek inserts to the rotor body.
US08408368B2	Caliper brake A caliper brake including a mounting bracket adapted to be secured to a vehicle. The mounting bracket includes a pair of laterally spaced holes, and a mounting bolt is received through each hole. Each bolt includes a head and a threaded portion on opposing ends, and a nut is received on each threaded portion. An inner spacer extends between the mounting bracket and the nut on each bolt, and an outer spacer extends between the mounting bracket and the head on each bolt.
US08408367B2	Drum brake The invention relates to a drum brake having an electromechanical actuating device. The invention proposes to convert a rotating drive movement of the actuating device by use of a gearwheel and two toothed racks. The toothed racks mesh with the gearwheel on opposite sides thereof and are driven in opposite directions by the gearwheel into translational movements for pressing attached brake shoes against a brake drum. The toothed racks are configured in such a way that the two toothed racks have a common line of action, with resulting symmetrical actuating forces. According to one embodiment of the invention, the lines of action of the toothed racks run tangentially with respect to the gearwheel.
US08408365B2	Locking device for preventing a rotation and/or an axial movement of a pin, including shape memory releasing means A locking device for preventing the rotation and/or the axial movement of a pin includes a coil spring wound around at least a portion of the pin and having one end rigidly connected to a support structure. In its undeformed condition, the spring has an internal diameter smaller than the diameter of the pin, whereby in its resting condition the spring is tightened around the pin to prevent a rotation thereof at least in a direction or an axial movement in any direction. The device includes shape memory means for causing the unwinding of the turns of the spring for the purpose of temporarily releasing the pin.
US08408360B2	Automatic belay warning system A warning system for use with a climbing wall and an automatic belay apparatus for belaying a climber, the warning system providing a warning that a climber is not protected by the auto-belay apparatus. The warning system includes a sensor positioned to sense that a lower end of the climbing rope is secured to the climbing wall and the climber is not attached to the auto-belay system which indicates a dangerous situation, and a height sensor for sensing when the climber has reached a selected height on the climbing wall. A processor receives signals from the sensors and compares the signals to determine if the climber has reached the selected height with the lower end of the climbing wall still secured to the wall, and if so, then actuates a warning alarm.
US08408354B2	All terrain vehicle An all terrain vehicle includes a steering shaft coupled to a handle; a power steering device including an input shaft coupled to the steering shaft, and an output shaft driven to rotate together with the input shaft, the power steering device being positioned between right and left front wheels in a rightward and leftward direction; a link unit for coupling the output shaft to each of the right and left front wheels, the link unit receiving a rotation of the output shaft and changing a direction of the front wheels; and a stopper disposed to face the output shaft with a clearance between the stopper and at least a left portion and a right portion of an end portion of the output shaft.
US08408351B2	System and method for enhancing vehicle handling and traction A vehicle includes a suspension system operatively connecting a vehicle body to a plurality of wheels for maintaining contact between the wheels and a road surface, and for maintaining handling of the vehicle. A system for steering the vehicle and a braking system for decelerating the vehicle are also included. The vehicle additionally includes a plurality of thrusters, wherein at least one of the thrusters is arranged relative to each wheel and each of the plurality of thrusters is configured to generate a force. Furthermore, the vehicle additionally includes a controller configured for regulating the force generated by each of the thrusters to assist the suspension system with maintaining contact between the wheels and the road surface and maintaining handling, assist the steering system with steering, and assist the braking system with decelerating the vehicle. A method of assisting the vehicle suspension, steering, and braking systems is also disclosed.
US08408349B1	Electric bicycle An electric bicycle and electric bicycle frame including batteries stored in a pair of substantially parallel top tubes. In some cases, the top tubes extend rearward of the bicycle seat tube, and an electronics housing may be disposed between the rearward extending top tube portions.
US08408346B2	Motor vehicle front end A motor vehicle front end has a frame, which supports a heat exchanger and has an upper horizontal crosspiece connected to two uprights by means of connection elements, which are plastically deformable so as to allow the upper horizontal crosspiece to be lowered in the event of an accident; the upper horizontal crosspiece comprises a rigid rear portion and a plastically deformable, front portion which is made of plastic material and is fixed to the rigid rear portion.
US08408345B2	Moving body equipped with fuel cell A fuel cell vehicle includes a fuel cell, a radiator, a radiator fan, and a mounting frame. The mounting frame has an opposed member located on an axially extension of a rotating shaft of the radiator fan. When a compression load acting on the rotating shaft reaches a preset load, the rotating shaft of the radiator fan is compressed in an axial center direction along an axial center.
US08408344B2	Sealing members for radiator assemblies and radiator assemblies comprising the same Sealing members for vehicle radiator assemblies and vehicle radiator assemblies comprising sealing members are disclosed. In one embodiment, a sealing member for a radiator assembly includes a central panel, a mounting connector, and a flexible skirt element. The mounting connector may be formed in an upper edge of the central panel and extend across a width of the central panel. The mounting connector and the central panel are formed from a first polymeric material. The flexible skirt element may be formed in a lower edge of the central panel and extend across the width of the central panel. The flexible skirt element may be formed from a second polymeric material that is elastically deformable and recoverable. The first polymeric material may be relatively harder than the second polymeric material. The sealing member may be coupled to a radiator assembly installed in an engine compartment of a vehicle.
US08408343B2	Powered wheelchair configurations and related methods of use A wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The wheelchair seat can be moved forward to provide access to the batteries without fully removing the wheelchair from the frame.
US08408339B2	Frictional drive device and inverted pendulum type vehicle using the same In a frictional drive device comprising a pair of drive disks each rotatably supported by a frame around a central axial line (A) in a mutually opposing relationship and configured to be individually rotatively actuated by a pair of actuators, a plurality of drive rollers arranged along an outer periphery of each drive disk so as to be rotatable along a prescribed plane of rotation, and an annular main wheel disposed at least approximately coaxially with respect to the central axial line and engaged by the drive rollers of the drive disks, the main wheel comprising an annular member and a plurality of driven rollers supported along the annular member so as to be rotatable around a tangential line of the annular member, each drive roller includes at least a pair of individually rotatable disk members coaxially disposed to each other and having different diameters, the diameters being selected so that the disk members engage the corresponding driven roller at outer peripheral parts thereof. Typically, each drive roller include a plurality of disk members coaxially stacked upon one another in a mutually freely rotatable manner so as to jointly define a substantially hourglass shaped outer profile. Thereby, the slippage in the frictional engagement between the drive rollers and driven rollers can be minimized so that the drive efficiency can be improved and the drive force capacity can be maximized.
US08408334B1	Stabbing apparatus and method A tubular handling apparatus has a main rotating structural member pivotally movable between a first position and a second position, an arm interconnected to the main rotating structural member, and a gripper mechanism affixed to an end of the arm opposite the main rotating structural member. The gripper mechanism has a stab frame, a first gripper translatably attached to a side of the stab frame, and a second gripper translatably attached to the side of the stab frame below the first gripper. A connection bar is connected to the first and second grippers so as to translate the grippers for a substantially identical distance. A translating mechanism translates the grippers along the side of the stab frame.
US08408331B2	Downhole downlinking system employing a differential pressure transducer A downhole tool includes a downlinking system deployed in a downhole tool body having an internal through bore. The downlinking system includes a differential pressure transducer configured to measured a pressure difference between drilling fluid in the internal through bore and drilling fluid external to the tool (in the borehole annulus). The differential transducer is electrically connected with an electronic controller (deployed substantially anywhere in the drill string) that is configured to receive and decode pressure waveforms.
US08408326B2	Hydraulic remote control for hydraulic system of an agricultural implement A hydraulic control apparatus for a foldable farm implement has a first hydraulic control system is used to control weight transfer to a plurality of ground engaging tools mounted to stationary and wing frame sections of the farm implement. A second hydraulic system is used to fold and unfold the wing sections for placing the implement in a compact position for transport and storage. A hydraulic control is provided that interfaces with both hydraulic systems to control sequencing of the functions provided by the first and second hydraulic systems.
US08408325B2	Hydraulic upper link with float position An upper link for a utility vehicle, in particular for an agricultural tractor having a hydraulic cylinder (34) for adjusting the upper link (32) and at least one fluid tank (36), to which the hydraulic cylinder (34) can be coupled, so that in a coupled condition, hydraulic fluid limited to a pre-determined volume can be exchanged between the hydraulic cylinder (34) and the fluid tank (36), and so that a piston (40) of the hydraulic cylinder (34) can move in floating fashion by a distance (ls) corresponding to the pre-determined volume in the hydraulic cylinder (34). The present invention further includes a front-end as well as to a back-end three-point hitch of a utility vehicle with two pivotally connected lower links and an upper link with such a fluid tank.
US08408322B2	Man-rated fire suppression system and related methods A fire suppression system for producing an inert gas mixture having a minimal amount of carbon monoxide, particulates, or smoke. The inert gas mixture may be generated by combusting a gas generant. The gas generant may be a composition that includes hexa(ammine)-cobalt(III)-nitrate. The fire suppression system also includes a heat management system to reduce a temperature of the inert gas mixture. In one embodiment, the system includes multiple gas generators and is configured to ignite the respective gas generant of each gas generator in a predetermined, time based sequential order. For example, the gas generant of each gas generator may be ignited in a sequential order at specified time intervals. Methods of extinguishing fires are also disclosed.
US08408319B2	Control swelling of swellable packer by pre-straining the swellable packer element A swellable packer including a first retainer, a second retainer, a swellable element, a piston, and a piston lock. The second retainer is spaced axially apart from the first retainer. The swellable element is at least partially disposed between and fixed to the first and second retainers. The piston is fixed to the second retainer and configured to move the second retainer from a first position in which the swellable element is unstrained, to a second position in which the swellable element is strained. The piston lock is configured to releasably fix the second retainer in the second position.
US08408317B2	Tubular expansion tool and method A downhole hydraulically powered tool (10) moves an expander (36) in a well to radially expand a downhole tubular. The tool includes a plurality of fluid-powered pistons (16, 20) for axially stroking the expander relative to a tool mandrel (12), and one or more slips (52) for axially securing the tool in the well. The tool mandrel is rotatably secured to the tubular to rotate with the tubular, thereby rotating a bit (60) at the lower end of the tubular. The expander is moved axially downward in response to axial movement of the pistons to radially expand the tubular after at least a portion of the well is drilled with the bit and while the slips secure the tool in the well.
US08408316B2	Downhole apparatus with a swellable support structure A downhole apparatus having a radially expanding portion and a support structure are described. The support structure comprises an attachment means for coupling to the apparatus and a support portion configured to be deployed from a first unexpanded condition to a second expanded condition by expansion of the apparatus. In one aspect of the invention, the downhole apparatus is expanded by exposing the swellable material to at least one predetermined fluid, and the support structure abuts the swellable material in its expanded form. A method of use and its application to a well packer, a hanging member, an anchor and a centralising apparatus are described.
US08408308B2	Apparatus and method for increasing the amount of dynamic underbalance in a wellbore A method for use in a wellbore includes the steps of providing an elongated, closed tubular body defining an internal chamber wherein the tubular body has an external surface formed with treated areas and an elongated recess extending longitudinally of the tubular body and running through the treated areas; retaining a detonating device in the recess adjacent the external surface of the tubular body; positioning the tubular body with the detonating device in a wellbore adjacent perforation tunnels previously formed in a surrounding well formation and filled with debris; and activating the detonating device to rupture the tubular body inwardly along the external surface forming the recess at the treated areas to expose the chamber within the tubular body to a dynamic underbalanced pressure condition such that fluid from the wellbore and debris from the perforation tunnels is drawn through the wellbore and into the chamber.
US08408307B2	Wellbore cleaning method and apparatus This invention relates to well cleaning methods and apparatus. In particular, this invention relates to a method of drilling and cleaning a wellbore.In one embodiment of the invention, a method of drilling and cleaning a wellbore (12) is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a drill string (10) having a drill bit (28) and a cleaning tool (24) with selectively activatable cleaning members (34); drilling a wellbore using the drill bit while maintaining the cleaning members in a deactivated position; and pulling the drill string from the wellbore with the cleaning members in an activated position, to thereby clean the wellbore. A corresponding cleaning tool is also disclosed.
US08408300B2	Open-hole stimulation system A stimulation system configured for use in open-hole wells. The system may alternatively or additionally be configured for multi-zone stimulation applications. The system includes assemblies which employ techniques and configurations for isolating recovery screens downhole even without the presence of well casing. In this manner protection may be provided from dowhnole contaminants such as water which might otherwise leak in from adjacent formation layers.
US08408296B2	Methods for borehole measurements of fracturing pressures There is provided a method of testing a subterranean formation for fracture condition, including the steps of creating a side bore into the wall of a well traversing the formation, sealing the wall around the side bore to provide a pressure seal between the side bore and the well, pressurizing the side bore beyond a pressure inducing formation fracture while maintaining the seal and monitoring the pressure to identify the fracture condition.
US08408291B2	Engaging device An engaging device includes a body selectively slidably engagable about a first tubular runnable within a second tubular. The body is runnable past at least one profile on the second tubular in a first direction during a first running and is prevented from running past the at least one profile on subsequent runs subsequent to running by the at least one profile in a second direction.
US08408289B2	Liquified petroleum gas fracturing system A fracturing system for a well, in which a stream of LPG, a mixture of propane and butane, is injected into the well at frac pressure. Proppant is supplied into the LPG stream, and carried by the LPG mix into the formation. Inert gas such as nitrogen is used for purging system components of LPG, and to help protect against risk of explosion. Nitrogen may also be added to the LPG mix during a frac of shale gas or coal gas formations.
US08408287B2	Electrical jumper for a producing oil well A jumper providing electrical communication between two components of a producing well of an oil field. The jumper has two tubings for insertion in two components each with an anchor adapted to be rigidly mounted in its associated component. Each tubing has a centering device, consisting of a pair of rings surrounding the tubing and an array of bowed springs bridging between the rings and biased to bow outwardly into engagement with the bore of the associated component. One of the two rings is electrically and mechanically connected to the tubing, whereas the other ring is free to be displaced longitudinally of the tubing so that the outer diameter of the array of bowed el springs may expand or contract, as needed. Each bowed spring in the array is provided with supplemental electrical contacts to insure a path of electrical conductivity between the connected ring and the associated component through the bowed springs.
US08408286B2	Perforating string with longitudinal shock de-coupler A shock de-coupler for use with a perforating string can include perforating string connectors at opposite ends of the de-coupler, a longitudinal axis extending between the connectors, and a biasing device which resists displacement of one connector relative to the other connector in both opposite directions along the longitudinal axis, whereby the first connector is biased toward a predetermined position relative to the second connector. A perforating string can include a shock de-coupler interconnected longitudinally between components of the perforating string, with the shock de-coupler variably resisting displacement of one component away from a predetermined position relative to the other component in each longitudinal direction, and in which a compliance of the shock de-coupler substantially decreases in response to displacement of the first component a predetermined distance away from the predetermined position relative to the second component.
US08408284B2	Heat exchanger assembly A heat exchanger assembly that includes an outlet header/manifold defining an outlet cavity, an outlet tube in fluidic communication with the outlet cavity, and a heat exchanger core. The outlet tube and the outlet cavity cooperate to reduce a temperature value range across the heat exchanger core by equalizing refrigerant distribution between the refrigerant tubes within the heat exchanger core. The length of the heat exchanger headers/manifolds may be increased for a predetermined packaging width because the outlet tube and inlet conduit may exit the headers/manifolds perpendicularly rather than axially, allowing the heat exchanger core width to be increased. The increased heat exchanger core width allows additional refrigerant tubes to be included in the heat exchanger core, providing decreased air pressure difference for air flowing through the heat exchanger assembly and increased heat capacity of the heat exchanger assembly.
US08408283B2	Heat exchanger fin with ribbed hem A serpentine fin for assembly between tubes in a heat exchanger core, and a method of making same from a metal strip. The strip edges have a hem comprising a double thickness of the strip material extending inward from the edge. The metal strip has folds extending across the strip width such that the strip forms a serpentine shape, with the folds being adapted to contact the tubes in the heat exchanger core. Multiple rows of split louvers are disposed between adjacent folds. Each row of split louvers comprises louvers having openings extending in the direction of the strip length and formed in a pair of adjacent, spaced louver banks. Ribs are disposed parallel to the louver openings adjacent the strip edges and in at least one center portion of the strip between the strip edges, and extend across the pair of louver banks.
US08408281B2	System, method, and apparatus for pulsed-jet-enhanced heat exchanger A pulsed-jet active flowfield control actuation system enhances the rate of heat transfer and heat removal in a heat exchanger for better management of thermal loads. The pulsed jet actuators impart an unsteady component of velocity to the working fluid of the heat exchanger. This design increases the convective heat transfer, and avoids increases in heat exchanger volume and weight for a given performance value.
US08408280B1	Bleedout detection system A continuous casting mold with a bleedout detection system is disclosed, which may include a casting mold framework, a molten metal casting mold with a mold inlet and a mold outlet, the mold outlet having a mold cavity perimeter; and a bleedout detection system which may include: a signal generator that provides a balanced current to a sensor/conductor at or near the mold outlet perimeter; a current detector electrically connected to the sensor/conductor; and a programmable controller configured to receive an electrical signal from the bleedout detection system regarding the status of the sensor/conductor.
US08408276B2	Organo-modified silicone, mold release agent for mold casting comprising the same, and mold casting method using the same An organo-modified silicone obtained by an addition reaction of (I) a chain silicone represented by formula (1): wherein the formula (1), R1s represent hydrocarbon groups having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, and a and b are numbers satisfying conditions represented by the following formulae (i) to (iii): 0≦a≦195 (i) 5≦b (ii) 10≦a+b≦200 (iii), with (II) a hydrocarbon such as monoolefins and aromatic hydrocarbons, and (III) a di(meth)acrylic acid ester, at a molar ratio satisfying conditions represented by the following formula (iv): {the chain silicone}:{the hydrocarbon}:{the di(meth)acrylic acid ester}=A:B:C (iv) wherein the formula (iv), A represents a number of moles of the chain silicone, and B and C are numbers satisfying conditions represented by the following formulae (v) and (vi): 0.05A≦C≦A (v) A×b−2C=B (vi) in the presence of a hydrosilylation catalyst.
US08408268B2	Method and apparatus for labeling containers A label for a container is formed by wrapping a length of label material around a cylindrical mandrel and introducing heat, adhesive or other sealing means into a gap between the leading end portion of the label material and the trailing end portion as the label material is wrapped around the mandrel. The cylindrical sleeve is slid off of the mandrel and telescoped over a container passing thereunder. The container with a cylindrical sleeve therearound is then moved to a heating station which heats the label material, preferably foam polystyrene, to cause it to shrink into conformity with the contour of the container.
US08408265B2	Tape dispenser A tape dispenser of the present invention includes an integrally-formed main body. The main body has a rack and two semi-crusts. The semi-crusts are pivotably connected to the rack, so that the semi-crusts can be closed for a tape roll to be received therein. Or, the semi-crusts can be opened for placing or replacing the tape roll. The rack has a front plate and a top plate. The front plate, the top plate, and the semi-crusts are rectangularly arranged. Thus, structure strength of the tape dispenser is increased.
US08408261B2	Pneumatic tire The present invention provides a pneumatic tire in which a sectional shape of a bead wire and arrangement of the bead wires have been optimized to increase rotational rigidity of the bead core as a whole and suppress pulling-off of a carcass, so that durability of the bead portion can be enhanced. The pneumatic tire comprises: a pair of bead portions 1; a pair of side wall portions; a tread portion extending over the respective sidewall portions; and a carcass 4 extending in a toroidal shape across the aforementioned portions and having respective end portions being turned up around the bead cores 2, wherein each bead wire 3 has, in a section in the tire widthwise direction, a parallelogram section including a first acute corner portion 7a positioned on the outer side in the tire widthwise direction and on the inner side in the tire radial direction of a second acute corner portion 7b, a first obtuse corner portion 9a positioned on the inner side in the tire widthwise direction and on the outer side in the tire radial direction of the first acute corner portion 7a, a second obtuse corner portion 9b positioned on the inner side in the tire widthwise direction of the first acute corner portion 7a and on the inner side or aligned, in the tire radial direction, of/with the first acute corner portion 7a.
US08408256B2	Apparatus and method for needle filling and laser resealing Apparatus for filling containers having stoppers that are penetrable for filling the containers with a substance, and thermally resealable for thermally sealing the resulting hole. A container support supports at least one such container in a substantially fixed position during filling and resealing. A manifold drivingly mounted over the container support comprises (1) a cartridge including a filling needle for penetrating the resealable stopper and introducing a substance therethrough into the container, a mount for mounting the cartridge on the manifold, and a removable cover releasably coupled to the mount for covering the filling needle during transportation, installation and/or removal of the cartridge from the manifold. The manifold includes a thermal source for heating a penetrated region of the stopper and, sealing the hole.
US08408255B1	Beverage dispensing system A beverage dispensing system comprising a dispensing port for dispensing a beverage, a drip tray located below the dispensing port for collecting the beverage dispensed and an antenna located between the dispensing port and the drip tray is provided. The beverage dispensing system is RFID-enabled by configuring the antenna to receive signals from radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.
US08408248B2	Rotary valve for the control of steam throughput in a steam turbine A rotary valve for the control of the steam throughput in a steam turbine is provided. The rotary valve includes an immovable fixed ring and a rotary ring which is arranged concentrically and rotatably on the fixed ring. The rotary valve is equipped with control profiles including profiled heads and profiled ends, between which control slots are formed, wherein the profiled heads are arranged on the rotary ring, and the profiled ends are arranged on the fixed ring. In the contact plane between rotary ring and fixed ring, the width of the control slot is equal to the width of the control profile. Blades are arranged between the profiled ends in the fixed ring, the blades dividing each control slot of the fixed ring into two partial slots.
US08408244B2	Sanitary installation part A sanitary installation part (1) which has an installation housing (2) which can be inserted into a housing mount of a gas line or a liquid line is provided and has at least one latching element which projects into a latching position on the outer circumference of the housing and can be moved in a resiliently elastic manner from this latching position to a zero position. The installation part according to the invention provides that the at least one latching element is designed as a latching protuberance (5) which is beveled or rounded along its transverse edges oriented transversely to the insertion direction on both sides, and the at least one latching protuberance (5), in its zero position, can be can be resiliently fitted into the latching element mount, in which the latching protuberance (5) is incorporated in the outer circumference of the installation housing (2).
US08408241B2	Wall-mounted faucet that is available for water supply lines of different specifications and sizes A faucet includes a faucet body, a connecting member mounted in the faucet body, a plurality of elastic plates each connected between the faucet body and the connecting member, a first connector selectively connected with the connecting member, and a second connector selectively connected with the connecting member. Thus, the connecting member is connected with a water supply line by the first connector or the second connector so that the faucet is available for water supply lines of different types and sizes.
US08408238B1	Yard hydrant with improved valve A yard hydrant of a type utilizes a reciprocating valve for controlling the flow in a hydrant flow pipe vertically movable within a standpipe. The lower end of the flow pipe has a valve body attached thereto for controlling the flow of water from a supply of water under pressure. An upper end of the flow pipe is secured to the hydrant head and in flow communication therewith and such head is vertically movable with the flow pipe and valve body relative to the standpipe. The opening of the valve is accomplished by elevating the hydrant head with respect to the standpipe and the ground, which correspondingly elevates the flow pipe and valve body to the open position of the valve. Closing the valve is accomplished by lowering the hydrant head, flow pipe and valve body, which simultaneously allows water to drain from the hydrant head/flow pipe/valve.
US08408237B2	Modular spool valve A control valve comprising a plurality of interchangeable valve body modules, each module having a main valve cavity and a plurality of separate cross valve communication ports communicating; and at least one interchangeable gasket disposed between adjacent modules and configured to individually communicate the main valve cavity and the communication ports between adjacent valve body modules, wherein the gasket is further configured to selectively communicate between the main valve cavity and a selected one of the cross valve communication ports. In one embodiment, each valve body module further includes a passage communicating with the main valve cavity. In this case, the gasket may be configured to selectively communicate between the passage and the selected one of the cross valve communication ports, thereby selectively communicating between the main valve cavity and the selected one of the cross valve communication ports through the passage by selective orientation of the gasket.
US08408236B2	Drain treatment system A drain treatment system capable of achieving balance of pressure between a facility apparatus and a drain treatment apparatus with a simple structure is provided.A bottom part of a heat, exchanger 2 is connected with a top part of a drain tank 3 by a drain discharge pipe 4. The drain discharge pipe 4 has a balance pipe-connecting tube 5. The balance pipe-connecting tube 5 comprises: a balance pipe-connecting part 6; a communicating tube-connecting part 7; and a communicating passage 8 which connects both the parts therein. The top part of the drain tank 3 is connected with the balance pipe-connecting part 6 by a balance pipe 9. Further, the communicating tube-connecting part 7 is connected with a lower part of the heat exchanger 2 by a communicating tube 10 which passes through the drain discharge pipe 4. If a drain level of the heat exchanger 2 is below an open end of the communicating tube 8 on the side of the heat exchanger 2, the balance of pressure is achieved between the heat exchanger 2 and the drain tank 3 by the balance pipe 9, the communicating passage 8, and the communicating tube 10, allowing the drain from the heat exchanger 2 to be smoothly discharged into the drain tank 3 through the drain discharge pipe 4.
US08408234B2	Process liquid supply system, process liquid supply method, and storage medium A process liquid supply system includes a pure water supply source connected to a process vessel through a supply pipe; a chemical liquid tank that stores a chemical liquid and supplies the chemical liquid stored therein to the supply pipe; and a compressed gas supply source connected to the chemical liquid tank through a compressed gas supply pipe. A pressure adjusting part is disposed on the compressed gas supply pipe at a position between the compressed gas supply source and the chemical liquid tank. The pressure adjusting part is controlled so that the pressure of the compressed gas supplied from the compressed gas supply source to the chemical liquid tank is gradually or stepwise increased after the supply of the chemical liquid from the chemical liquid tank to the supply pipe is started so that the concentration of the processing liquid remains at desired level.
US08408232B2	Sequence valve A sequence valve for a hydraulic circuit provides a control signal through a control signal port to a pressure responsive flow source to maintain pressure in an accumulator between a low pressure setting and a high pressure setting. The valve includes accumulator, flow source and drain ports, in addition to the control signal port. A spool controls communication between the control signal port and the drain port. A piston is moved by pressure in the accumulator port against a control spring to close communication between the control signal port and the flow source port, and to move the valve spool to close communication between control signal port and the drain port. A differential between the net cross sectional area of the spool establishes the differential between the high and low pressure settings of the accumulator.
US08408230B2	Temperature compensated I/P converter An I/P converter is disclosed. The I/P converter comprises a nozzle (7) coupled to a magnetic circuit. A temperature compensation ring (3) is coupled to the top side of the magnetic circuit. A flexure (1) is coupled to the temperature compensation ring. The temperature compensation ring is configured to position the flexure relative to a first end of the nozzle and the temperature compensation ring is configured to maintain the relative position between the nozzle and the flexure over a range of temperatures.
US08408229B2	Plant watering system An automatic plant watering apparatus having a cavity for receiving a standard houseplant pot, a reservoir for holding water, a pump for removing water from the reservoir, a host for delivering water from the pump to a plant positioned in the cavity. The pump is operated by a microcontroller that is programmed to measure a first time period during which the pump is not operated, and a second time period during which the pump is operated. According, the apparatus can be programmed to automatically water a house plant at predetermined intervals, as well as deliver a predetermined amount of water.
US08408228B1	Flow control valve for a broken sprinkler A flow control device is comprised of a body/connector, a simplified sliding cord, a sealing device, and a stopper. The body/connector connects an overhead sprinkler to a supply line by means of male threaded ends. The body/connector is comprised of a wrench connector, which is located between the two male threaded ends, a guiding tube that sits on the top side of the body/connector with the assistance of the supporting ribs. The guiding tube guides the sliding cord up and down inside the flow control device and sprinkler. The sliding cord is made from a material that is flexible enough to bend inside the supply line and strong enough to return to its original straight shape. The stopper and the sealing device are connected to each other with the sliding cord. The sealing device sits against the sealing surface of the body/connector if the sprinkler head is missing. The stopper prevents the sealing device from making contact with the body/connector during normal operational conditions.
US08408226B2	Needleless access port valves Needleless access port valves are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to needleless access port valves incorporating a piston comprising slit along an upper piston section for accommodating fluid flow. The slit is closed by the relative geometry of the piston and the valve housing, which acts to terminate fluid flow from between the inlet and outlet of the valve assembly.
US08408225B2	Collapsible shelter A collapsible shelter is described herein. One embodiment includes at least three leg members, at least three base members, wherein the each base member includes an opening to receive one of the at least three leg members at an angle less than 90° relative to the bottom surface of the base member, at least two accordion-type collapsible truss assemblies connected to each leg via an upper corner connection mechanism and a lower corner connection mechanism, each accordion-type truss including at least four truss members interconnected by at least two pivotal v-joints and at least two pivotal x-joints, wherein the at least two pivotal v-joints each include two truss members coupled together with a coupling mechanism through openings in the two truss members, wherein the openings in the two truss members are configured to reduce shearing forces in the truss members by the coupling mechanism.
US08408221B2	Micro bubble generating device and silicon wafer cleaning apparatus A micro-bubble generating device is provided with a micro-bubble generating mechanism and a leading conduit provided with a widening section and a tube part, the widening section and the tube part in communication with each other in the leading conduit. The widening section has a hollow shape which has an axis Z as a central axis, and has base surfaces and a peripheral surface, and communicates with a nozzle of the micro-bubble-generating mechanism via one base surface of the widening section, and communicates with the tube part via the other base surface. The cross section orthogonal to a flow axis Z of the micro-bubbles of the widening section is larger than the cross section orthogonal to the flow axis Z of the tube part.
US08408218B2	Applicator with extendable implement An applicator system for applying a product to a surface includes an extendable implement comprising an applicator that is selectively extendable. By virtue of having an applicator that is selectively extendable, the extendable implement is capable of applying various products utilizing individual portions of the extendable implement to apply the product to hard-to-reach areas and to achieve multiple desired effects.
US08408214B2	Method for implanting prosthetic valve A method for implanting a prosthetic valve apparatus in a novel location which replaces the function of a native diseased valve. The prosthetic valve apparatus includes a one way valve and an expandable valve seating. anchoring and securing apparatus in a newly created orifice near or at the center of the anterior valve leaflet. The prosthetic valve apparatus also causes the sealing of the native valve and thus results in a solution for paravalvular leakage and regurgitation.
US08408213B2	Method and device for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring The device relates to methods and devices for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
US08408211B2	Method of facilitating inhalation of controlled quantities of exhaled air A method of intercepting controlled quantities of air exhaled from at least one of two nostrils on an individual's nose to permit inhalation of the intercepted air, including the steps of: providing an air flow intercepting apparatus; and placing the air flow intercepting apparatus in an operative position relative to the individual's nostrils so that as the individual inhales and exhales during repeating breathing cycles: a) a first quantity of exhaled air flows past the air flow intercepting apparatus; and b) a second quantity of exhaled air impinges upon the air flow intercepting apparatus so as to at least one of: i) stagnate; and ii) be redirected by the air flow intercepting apparatus so that at least a portion of the second quantity of exhaled air is drawn into the individual's nostrils as the individual inhales.
US08408209B2	Pressure controller for artificial respirator and artificial respirator using the same A pressure controller for an artificial respirator according to this invention includes a control valve facing a gas passage between an inspiratory gas inlet and an inspiratory gas outlet, and an elastic biasing means for elastically biasing the control valve against a valve seat. When an adjustment manipulating member moves backward, even the pivotal motion of the adjustment manipulating member does not operate an adjustment operating member. When the adjustment manipulating member is pulled out, the pivotal motion of the adjustment manipulating member operates the adjustment operating member, thereby adjusting the elastic biasing force of the elastic biasing means. This invention provides a pressure controller for an artificial respirator capable of reliably preventing unnecessary operating of the adjustment operating member although the pivoting operation of the adjustment manipulating member is simple as a whole, and there is no possibility that the adjustment manipulating member and the like are broken.
US08408208B2	Dispenser and counter The dispenser has a body (1), with a mouthpiece cover (2). Opening of the cover urges a junction member (3) towards a source (4) of a medicament to be released as a dose by pressing a spout (5) of the source inwards of the source. The source is supported by a cap (11) clipped to the end of a source-enclosing barrel (12) with intern al splines (10). The barrel is welded (15) to the main to part (16) of the body at a position determined by the extension of the source towards the distal end (17) of the barrel when the cover is open, the welding position being determined by a plug (18) simulating the cap and its bush.
US08408203B2	System and methods for ventilating a patient System and methods for ventilating a patient are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises steps of placing a ventilator in a mode capable of delivering respiratory gas based on at least one fixed parameter and at least one variable parameter, the fixed parameters being tidal volume and peak airway pressure and the variable parameter being PEEP, identifying a first level for the PEEP, configuring the ventilator to deliver the respiratory gas at the peak airway pressure and the PEEP to achieve the tidal volume, monitoring respiratory gas flow over time to measure tidal volume, setting a second level for the PEEP based on the measured tidal volume, automatically adjusting the PEEP to the second level relative to the peak airway pressure and repeating the steps of configuring, monitoring, setting and automatically adjusting to achieve the ventilation.
US08408197B2	Submergible combustion burner A burner apparatus includes a first tube having a first longitudinal bore and a second tube having a second longitudinal bore. The second tube is disposed within the first longitudinal bore such that an annular space is defined between the second tube and the first tube. The burner apparatus further includes a nozzle formed at a tip of the second tube. A plurality of side holes are formed in the nozzle. The side holes are slanted relative to a longitudinal axis of the nozzle and are in communication with the second longitudinal bore.
US08408193B2	Archery bow axle connector In some embodiments, a connector attaches to an axle of an archery bow and comprises a cable terminal. The connector comprises a body having a groove extending around at least a portion of its periphery. The groove defines a longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis forms a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, the connector is configured to snap-fit onto an axle and be removable without tools.
US08408192B2	Limb mounting system An apparatus and method for reducing stress in a bow limb of an archery bow connected to a handle/riser of the bow by allowing a butt end of the bow limb connected to a forward end of the handle/riser by a limb bolt to flex forwardly when the bow is drawn and/or allowing the bow to flex rearwardly at the rearward end of the handle/riser when the bow is drawn.
US08408187B2	Control apparatus and control method for internal combustion engine A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine including a supercharging device, which includes: a valve-drive mechanism that variably controls the valve timings for at least intake valves; a target valve timing setting mechanism setting a target valve timing for at least the intake valves in accordance with an operation condition of the engine in a low engine speed range; and a valve-drive mechanism controller controlling the valve-drive mechanism based on the target valve timing. Each of the target valve timings is differently set such that (a) a valve-overlap duration is provided in a negative pressure region; (b) the valve-overlap duration in the negative pressure region is made shorter in a first supercharging region; and (c) the valve-overlap duration in the first supercharging region is made longer in a second supercharging region where the higher load of the engine is required.
US08408184B2	Fastening element and fluid injector assembly A Fastening element has a carrier. A first pair of prongs branches off a first side face of the carrier designed to be in a mechanical engagement with a protrusion of a injector cup. A second pair of prongs branches off a second side face of the carrier. The second pair of prongs is designed to retain a fluid injector and to couple mechanically to a first protrusion of the injector. A pair of pins branches off a respective prong from the second pair of prongs at a respective inner side face of the respective prong. The pins are arranged opposed to each other and in a given distance from each other and they are designed to be in a mechanical engagement with the fluid injector. A clamping device being designed to couple mechanically with the fluid injector cup and to exert a repelling force on the fluid injector cup.
US08408183B2	Ignition and fuel shutoff for engine A carburetor assembly includes a carburetor, a fuel supply valve, a valve member and a normally open switch. The fuel supply valve is coupled to the carburetor housing and is fluidly connected to the carburetor. The fuel supply valve includes a lever pivotable between first and second positions. The valve member is configured to move in response to the lever such that fuel is allowed to flow to the carburetor when the lever is in the first position and fuel is not allowed to flow to the carburetor when the lever is in the second position. The normally open switch is adjacent the fuel supply valve and includes a switch actuator. The lever is configured to engage and release the switch actuator to move the switch actuator between a non-actuated position and an actuated position respectively when the lever moves between the first and second positions.
US08408182B2	Control apparatus and method of controlling internal combustion engine mounted on vehicle When an automobile is traveling on a road surface with a low friction coefficient upon a shift of an engine to idle operation in the process of stopping the automobile from traveling, a target engine speed of the engine is reduced by a value equivalent to a reduction in a drive request value for any auxiliary at a time point corresponding to start of reduction of the drive request value.
US08408181B2	Throttle control module A throttle control module for controlling a throttle, comprises: a BLDC motor; a gear train connecting the motor to the throttle; and a throttle position sensor. A PWM module is connected to the throttle position sensor and generates a pulse-width modulation sequence according to the signal from the throttle position sensor and a desired throttle position signal. A decoder module generates commutation logic for the motor based on the signal from the throttle position sensor. A motor controller controls commutation of the motor according to the pulse-width modulation sequence and the commutation logic.

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