Document Document Title
US08435663B2 Battery ejector and electronic device using the same
An electronic device includes a housing having a battery chamber and a battery ejector assembled near the battery chamber. The housing has a front surface, the battery chamber is defined in the front surface for receiving a battery therein. The battery ejector includes an ejecting piece comprising an elastic portion, a hinged portion and a pressing portion. The elastic portion is configured for providing an ejecting force to the battery. The hinged portion is disposed at one end of the elastic portion and hinged to the housing. The pressing portion extends and bends from the hinged portion side of the elastic portion opposite to the elastic portion for operating the battery ejector.
US08435657B2 Method of preserving polymer electrolyte fuel cell stack and preservation assembly of polymer electrolyte fuel cell stack
A preservation assembly of a PEFC stack which is capable of sufficiently inhibiting degradation of performance of the PEFC stack particularly during a time period that elapses from when the stack is placed in the uninstalled state until it is placed in the installation position and is practically used. The PEFC stack is provided with an oxidizing agent passage having an inlet and an outlet and extending through a cathode and a reducing agent passage having an inlet and an outlet and extending through an anode. The PEFC stack is preserved in an uninstalled state in such a manner that an interior of the oxidizing agent passage and an interior of the reducing agent passage are set in a pressure-reduced state.
US08435652B2 Magnetic stack structure and manufacturing method thereof
A magnetic stack structure is disclosed. The magnetic stack structure includes two metal layers and a free layer sandwiched by the two metal layers. The thickness of the free layer is 1-30 nm. The thickness of the metal layers are 0.1-20 nm respectively.
US08435649B2 Silvery white film structure, method for making the same, and electronic device having the same
A white film structure includes a combining layer and a color layer. The combining layer is formed on a surface of a substrate and is made of chromium nitride. The color layer is formed on the combining layer and is made of a mixture of alumina and titanium oxide. A weight percent of the aluminum in the color layer is more than that of the titanium in the color layer.
US08435644B2 Metal moulding and method for producing it
A metal molding (10) comprises a metal foam region (12) composed of a metal foam consisting of a metal, a further region (14) in which the metal has fewer or smaller cavities than in the metal foam region, and an essentially sheet-like one-part or multipart insert element (16) with orifices or interspaces. The insert element (16) is arranged in a fringe region between the metal foam region (12) and the further region (14). The metal in the further region (14) is connected metallically to the metal in the metal foam region (12) in orifices or interspaces of the insert element (16).
US08435640B2 Metal-ceramic substrate
In the case of a metal-ceramic substrate with a multilayered ceramic material in sheet form, and with at least one metallization that is provided on one surface side of the ceramic material and is joined to be ceramic material by direct bonding or active soldering, the ceramic material has at least one inner layer or base layer of a silicon nitride ceramic. The surface side of the ceramic material that is provided with the at least one metallization is formed by an intermediate layer of an oxidic ceramic applied to the base layer.
US08435636B2 Optical compensation films of brominated styrenic polymers and related methods
Some embodiments include compositions and/or methods related to optical compensation films. More particularly, some embodiments can include brominated polystyrene compositions, and/or methods for their preparation, suitable for forming optical compensation films. In some embodiments, suitable brominated polystyrene compositions, and/or methods for their preparation, can include aromatic rings having one or more acyl moieties.
US08435634B2 Fabric batting tape
A fabric batting tape (10) that is utilized to fuse two pieces of material (24,28) together. The fabric batting tape (10) is comprised of a knitted fabric strip (12) having an upper surface (14) and a lower surface (16), and a hot-melt adhesive (22) that is located on the lower surface (16). The two pieces of material (24,28) are placed together, with a side edge (26) of one piece of the material (24) abutting a side edge (30) of the other piece (28). A length of the knitted fabric strip (12) is placed on top of the two pieces of material (24,28) with the adhesive lower surface (16) contacting the upper surfaces of the two pieces of material. When heat and pressure are applied via a heating element to the fabric strip (12), the heat activates the adhesive thereby creating a secure permanent fuse which maintains the two pieces of material (24,28) together along with the knitted fabric strip (12).
US08435631B2 Microporous material
Microporous materials that include thermoplastic organic polyolefin polymer (e.g., ultrahigh molecular weight polyolefin, such as polyethylene), particulate filler (e.g., precipitated silica), and a network of interconnecting pores, are described. The microporous materials of the present invention possess controlled volatile material transfer properties. The microporous materials can have a density of at least 0.8 g/cm3; and a volatile material transfer rate, from the volatile material contact surface to the vapor release surface of the microporous material, of from 0.04 to 0.6 mg/(hour*cm2). In addition, when volatile material is transferred from the volatile material contact surface to the vapor release surface, the vapor release surface is substantially free of volatile material in liquid form.
US08435628B2 Continuous, carbon-nanotube-reinforced polymer precursors and carbon fibers
The present invention relates to a continuous, carbon fiber with nanoscale features comprising carbon and carbon nanotubes, wherein the nanotubes are substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis of the fiber. Also provided is a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) precursor including about 50% to about 99.9% by weight of a melt-spinnable PAN and about 0.01% to about 10% of carbon nanotubes. Other precursor materials such as polyphenylene sulfide, pitch and solution-spinnable PAN are also provided. The precursor can also include a fugitive polymer which is dissociable from the precursor polymer.
US08435627B2 Multifunctional nanocoatings with mixed nanoparticles and process for fabricating same
Embodiments of a coated substrate comprise a substrate (100) with a multi-functional multi-layer nanoparticle coating (105) having a thickness of up to about 500 nm thereon. The nanoparticle coating (105) comprises an ionic polyelectrolyte layer (110), and a mixed colloid layer disposed over the polyelectrolyte layer (110). The mixed colloid layer comprises hydrophilic colloid ions (130) and conductive colloid ions (120) which is coupled through electrostatic or non-electrostatic forces, and the conductive colloid ions (120), the hydrophilic colloid ions (130), or both are coupled to the polyelectrolyte layer (110).
US08435621B2 Artificial stone fiber composites
A surface material is provided for furniture and building structures. The surface material comprises a layer of artificial stone and a layer of fiber reinforced resin. The surface material may further comprise a separator material, for example, a metal strip, a fiber strip, etc. that defines partially or wholly a boundary edge of the layer of artificial stone. The layer of fiber reinforced resin partially or fully encompasses the artificial stone and/or the separator material on all sides and surfaces except exposed decorative surfaces. The surface material may further comprise a decorative material comprising, for example, ornamental glass, semiprecious stones, metal art, colored quartz, glass, stone jewelry, etc. embedded within the layer of artificial stone. The surface material is used to cover a central core for forming the furniture and the building structures.
US08435616B2 Skidproof mat and manufacturing method thereof and skidproof mat assembly
A skidproof mat is provided which comprises: a rubber layer having a first major surface and a second major surface being opposite to the first major surface, and a thickness defined between the first and second major surfaces; a base layer; and a protection film covering each of the first and second major surfaces of the rubber layer; wherein the base layer is disposed within the thickness of the rubber layer so that the first and second major surfaces of the rubber layer constitute major outer surfaces of the skidproof mat. The protection film is movable when using. The rubber layer can achieve perfect anti-slip effect. The base layer is positioned in the rubber layer to increase the tenacity so that the skidproof mat is impossible to be deformed and has well ageing resistance.
US08435609B2 Liquid crystal alignment agent, liquid crystal alignment film formed therefrom, and liquid crystal display element provided with the liquid crystal alignment film
The present invention provides a liquid crystal alignment agent and a liquid crystal alignment film formed therefrom, as well as a liquid crystal display element provided with the liquid crystal alignment film. More specifically, the present invention provides a liquid crystal alignment agent and liquid crystal alignment film formed therefrom, as well as a liquid crystal display element provided with the liquid crystal alignment film without image sticking problems and having superior voltage holding ratio. The liquid crystal alignment agent includes: a polymer (A) obtained from a reaction between tetracarboxylic dianhydride compound and diamine compounds, an epoxy compound (B), and an organic solvent (C). Wherein the liquid crystal alignment agent is coated on a glass substrate, and heated for 15 minutes at 220° C. to forth a hard coating film. The hard coating film is extracted for 72 hours by using acetone at 60° C. to obtain an extract, an epoxy value on the extract is designated O, and based on 100 parts by weight of the solid content of the liquid crystal alignment agent, the parts by weight of the epoxy compound (B) is designated W, the O and W conform to the following equation: [O÷W×103]≦0.55.
US08435605B2 Flexible substrates having a thin-film barrier
Methods and apparatus provide for: applying an inorganic barrier layer to at least a portion of a flexible substrate, the barrier layer being formed from a low liquidus temperature (LLT) material; and sintering the inorganic barrier layer while maintaining the flexible substrate below a critical temperature.
US08435604B2 Sealing technique for decreasing the time it takes to hermetically seal a device and the resulting hermetically sealed device
A sealing method for decreasing the time it takes to hermetically seal a device and the resulting hermetically sealed device (e.g., a hermetically sealed OLED device) are described herein. The sealing method includes the steps of: (1) cooling an un-encapsulated device; (2) depositing a sealing material over at least a portion of the cooled device to form an encapsulated device; and (3) heat treating the encapsulated device to form a hermetically sealed device. In one embodiment, the sealing material is a low liquidus temperature inorganic (LLT) material such as, for example, tin-fluorophosphate glass, tungsten-doped tin fluorophosphate glass, chalcogenide glass, tellurite glass, borate glass and phosphate glass. In another embodiment, the sealing material is a Sn2+-containing inorganic oxide material such as, for example, SnO, SnO+P2O5 and SnO+BPO4.
US08435601B2 Method for forming carbon nanotube
Disclosed is a method of forming carbon nanotubes on a conductor that covers a portion of a substrate, the method includes depositing a mesh-like conductive member made of Mo or the like on a substrate made of glass or the like, forming a catalyst support, such as Al2O3, and a catalyst such as Fe or Co on the conductive member, placing the substrate in a carbon-source gas atmosphere, and generating heat with the conductive member for a short period of time to grow nanotubes while avoiding damage to the substrate.
US08435598B2 Method of producing a retardation plate, retardation plate, polarizing plate with a retardation plate, liquid crystal panel, and liquid crystal display apparatus
A method of producing a retardation plate includes the steps of applying a solution containing a resin B and a solvent to an optical base material containing a resin A to obtain a laminate including an optical base material layer and an application layer, and stretching the laminate, in which one of the resin A and the resin B has positive alignment birefringence, and another one of the resin A and the resin B has negative alignment birefringence, and the stretching is performed by setting an amount of a residual solvent in the laminate to be 2 to 10% by weight.
US08435592B2 Shortening particle compositions and dough products made therefrom
The invention relates to shortening particle compositions that are suitable for use in preparing baked goods such as biscuits, pizza crusts, pot pie crusts, and cinnamon rolls. Typically, the shortening compositions are low in trans fatty acids and in saturated fatty acids. For example, the shortening particle composition may comprise less than about 3% wt. total trans fatty acids and a total of about less than about 61% wt. saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids.
US08435591B2 Milk fat substitute and production method therefor
The invention relates to a milk fat substitute and to a method for producing same from a vegetable oil using a fractionation method, which is suitable for use in the production of products such as ice cream, biscuits, cakes, bread-making products, reconstituted milk, milk formulas, cheeses and other products.
US08435588B2 High-potency sweetener composition with an anti-inflammatory agent and compositions sweetened therewith
The present invention relates generally to functional sweetener compositions comprising non-caloric or low-caloric high-potency sweeteners and methods for making and using them. In particular, the present invention relates to different functional sweetener compositions comprising at least one non-caloric or low-caloric natural and/or synthetic high potency sweetener, at least one sweet taste improving composition, and at least one functional ingredient, such as an anti-inflammatory agent. The present invention also relates to functional sweetener compositions and methods that can improve the tastes of non-caloric or low-caloric natural and/or synthetic high-potency sweeteners by imparting a more sugar-like taste or characteristic. In particular, the functional sweetener compositions and methods provide a more sugar-like temporal profile, including sweetness onset and sweetness linger, and/or a more sugar-like flavor profile.
US08435586B2 Use of alkoxylated flavones to intensify the sensory impression of alcohol
The present application relates to a use of a compound of Formula I or of a mixture of compounds of Formula I: wherein R1 to R10 each independently of one another represent H, methoxy or ethoxy and at least one of the radicals R1 to R10 represents methoxy or ethoxy to intensify the sensory impression of alcohol.
US08435581B2 Food and beverage emulsifiers
An emulsifier having a primary emulsifying component of gum Arabic or modified starch and a secondary emulsifying component of pectin in a low amount is added to a beverage. The emulsifier has similar physical characteristics as conventional emulsifiers, with increased emulsifying capacity. Emulsifiers, such as gum Arabic or modified starch, conventionally used in food products can be easily replaced with the emulsifier to lower the cost of production.
US08435580B2 Method and apparatus for peeling produce in batch or continuous flow
A continuous flow/batch peeling device and method of using the device comprising a tub comprising a treatment zone and holding a replaceable quantity of an electrically conductive fluid and at least one produce immersed in the fluid, a belt comprised of a nonconductive material and comprising at least one divider that exposes produce to the treatment zone, and at least one variable power supply connected to at least one set of electrodes that are fixed to a wall of the treatment zone and in electrical contact with the fluid such that when the electrodes are energized, an electrical current is produced in the fluid and the produce causing the peel to rupture from an outer layer of flesh of the produce.
US08435579B2 Infused roasted seeds and methods of making thereof
Roasted infused seeds and a process for preparing roasted infused seeds are described. In one aspect, the roasted infused seeds may have salt, flavors, nutrients, colors, and/or functional ingredients as well as mixtures of these components infused internally into the seed. By infusing such components into the seeds, the methods described herein provide roasted seeds with unique flavors, nutrients, colors, textures, densities, and/or other functionalities.
US08435578B1 Methods and systems to prepare yeasted dough products
Methods and systems to prepare yeasted dough products, such as breads, include inhibiting yeast activity prior to a first rise, conducting the first rise over an extended rise time, inhibiting yeast activity between the first rise and a second rise, and conducting the second rise over an accelerated second rise time. Inhibiting of yeast activity may include maintaining one or more of a liquid ingredient and a dough at a relatively cool temperature. The first rise may include maintaining the dough at a relatively cool temperature to restrict or retard yeast activity. Inhibiting of yeast activity prior to the first rise and/or retarding yeast activity during the extended first rise may improve one or more of flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance of a resultant baked good.
US08435576B2 Use of cocoa polyphenols for treating a prostate hyperplasia, a specific cocoa extract and applications
The invention relates to the use of cacao polyphenols for preventing or curing a prostate hyperplasia, to a cacao polyphenol extract which also comprises, in particular lipids and/or xanthines, and to the applications of said extract in food and pharmaceutical products for treating a prostate cancer, cognitive disorders, oxidative stress and cholesterol.
US08435575B2 Use of gingerols for cancer patients suffering from nausea and emesis induced by chemotherapy
This invention is for an improved method for making enhanced ginger capsules and for using these capsules for treating nausea and emesis in cancer patients.
US08435573B2 Second run ginseng wine
The present application discloses a process for making second run ginseng wine.
US08435569B2 Pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one thrombolytic agent (A) and at least one gas (B) selected from the group consisting of nitrous oxide, argon, xenon, helium, neon
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one thrombolytic agent (A), such as the human recombinant form of tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA), and at least one gas (B) selected from the group consisting of nitrous oxide, argon, xenon, helium, neon, and mixtures thereof, as a combined composition for simultaneous, separate or sequential use for treating ischemia. The present invention also relates to the use of at least one thrombolytic agent (A), such as the human recombinant form of tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA), and at least one gas (B) selected from the group consisting of nitrous oxide, argon, xenon, helium, neon, and mixtures thereof, for the preparation of a combined pharmaceutical composition for treating ischemia.
US08435568B2 Use of WF10 for treating allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis
The present invention provides a method of treating or inhibiting at least one of allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis, or of reducing, inhibiting or treating allergy like symptoms. The methods use compositions comprising chlorite, chloride, chlorate and/or sulfate ions.
US08435566B2 Demineralized bone matrix compositions and methods
Bone matrix compositions and, more specifically, demineralized bone matrix (DBM) having increased osteoinductive capacity and methods for its production are provided. Specifically, DBM derived from cortical bone from the periosteal layer of bone are provided. Compositions comprising a disproportionate amount of DBM prepared from bone derived from the periosteal and/or middle layer of bone are provided. Preparations of and methods of use of periosteal DBM compositions are disclosed.
US08435562B2 Pharmaceutical compositions and oral dosage forms of a levodopa prodrug and methods of use
Pharmaceutical compositions and oral dosage forms of (2R)-2-phenylcarbonyloxypropyl (2S)-2-amino-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)propanoate mesylate and methods of treating diseases comprising orally administering such pharmaceutical compositions and dosage forms are disclosed.
US08435549B2 Halogen alkoxy spirocyclic tetramic and tetronic acid derivatives
The invention relates to novel haloalkoxyspirocyclic tetramic and tetronic acid derivatives of the formula (I) in which W, X, Y, Z, A, D, Q1, Q2, m and G have the meanings given above, to a plurality of processes and intermediates for their preparation, and to their use as pesticides and/or herbicides. Moreover, the invention provides selective herbicidal compositions comprising, firstly, haloalkoxyspirocyclic tetramic and tetronic acid derivatives and, secondly, a crop plant compatibility-improving compound.The invention furthermore relates to increasing the action of crop protection compositions comprising compounds of the formula (I) through the addition of ammonium salts or phosphonium salts and optionally penetrants.
US08435544B2 Ophthalmic compositions comprising calcineurin inhibitors or mTOR inhibitors
The embodiments disclosed herein relate to ophthalmic compositions comprising calcineurin inhibitors or mTOR inhibitors, and more particularly to methods for treating an ocular disease and/or condition using the disclosed compositions. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a pharmaceutical composition that includes a calcineurin inhibitor or an mTOR inhibitor; a first surfactant with an HLB index greater than about 10; and a second surfactant with an HLB index of greater than about 13, wherein an absolute difference between the HLB index of the first surfactant and the HLB index of the second surfactant is greater than about 3, and wherein the composition forms mixed micelles.
US08435543B2 Intergenic regions as insertion sites in the genome of modified vaccinia virus ankara (MVA)
The present invention relates to novel insertion sites useful for the integration of exogenous sequences into the Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus genome. The present invention further provides plasmid vectors to insert exogenous DNA into the genome of MVA. Furthermore, the present invention provides recombinant MVA comprising an exogenous DNA sequence inserted into the new insertion site as medicine or vaccine.
US08435542B2 Synergistic salivation agents
Provides is a salivation cocktail that comprises a food acid and a tingling sensate. The combination of a food acid and a tingling sensate has been found to synergistically increase salivation.
US08435540B2 Dimeric alpha interferon PEGylated site-specifically shows enhanced and prolonged efficacy in VIVO
The present invention concerns methods and compositions for PEGylated complexes of defined stoichiometry and structure. Preferably, the PEGylated complex is formed using dock-and-lock technology, by attaching a therapeutic agent to a DDD sequence and a PEG moiety to an AD sequence, allowing the DDD sequence to bind to the AD sequence in a 2:1 stoichiometry, to form PEGylated complexes with two therapeutic agents and one PEG moiety. Alternatively, the therapeutic agent may be attached to the AD sequence and the PEG to the DDD sequence to form PEGylated complexes with two PEG moieties and one therapeutic agent. In more preferred embodiments, the therapeutic agent may comprise any peptide or protein of physiologic or therapeutic activity, preferably a cytokine, more preferably interferon-α2b. The PEGylated complexes exhibit a significantly slower rate of clearance when injected into a subject and are of use for treatment of a wide variety of diseases.
US08435539B2 Delivery system for cytotoxic drugs by bispecific antibody pretargeting
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for pretargeting delivery of therapeutic agents. In preferred embodiments, the pretargeting method comprises: a) administering a bispecific antibody with a first binding site for a disease-associated antigen and a hapten on a targetable construct; b) administering a targetable construct comprising at least one therapeutic agent. In preferred embodiments, the bispecific antibody is made by the dock-and-lock (DNL) technique. In a more preferred embodiment, the targetable construct comprises one or more SN-38 moieties.
US08435536B2 Fish vaccine
A salmonid alphavirus polypeptide comprising an epitope capable of inducing a virus neutralizing immune response, nucleic acids encoding the polypeptide, a vaccine comprising the polypeptide and a method of producing salmonid alphavirus neutralizing antibodies.
US08435532B2 Use of modified extracellular matrix proteins in diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis
The present invention relates to the use of fibronectin, tenascin, collagens type I, III, VI and/or VIII modified by aldehyde or by glycosylation in ELISA for detection of antibodies in plasma and serum to diagnose atherosclerosis as well as the use of induction of tolerance and active as well as passive immunization against glycosylated or aldehydemodified fibronectin, tenascin, collagen type I, III, VI and/or VIII for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
US08435531B2 Method of treating cancer cells to create a modified cancer cell that provokes an immunogenic response
The present invention relates to a delipidation method employing a solvent system useful for extracting lipids from cancer cells, thereby creating a modified cancer cell particle. Upon delipidation of the cancer cells, a portion of the cancer cell antigens remain intact. These exposed antigens, or epitopes, foster and promote antibody production. The resulting modified cancer cell particle, or portions of the cancer cell, initiate a positive immunogenic response when administered to an animal or human and help to treat, prevent or delay the onset of cancer. The present invention provides autologous and heterologous vaccine compositions comprising the modified cancer cell with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention provides method of administering these vaccines to treat, prevent or delay the onset of cancer.
US08435527B2 Purification method which prevents denaturation of an antibody
The present invention provides a method of purifying an antibody by protein A affinity chromatography. More specifically, the present invention provides a technique relating to an elution buffer solution which provides a good antibody recovery rate without denaturation.
US08435524B2 Human cytomegalovirus neutralizing antibodies and use thereof
The invention relates to neutralizing antibodies, and antibody fragments thereof, having high potency in neutralizing hCMV, wherein said antibodies and antibody fragments are specific for one, or a combination of two or more, hCMV gene UL products. The invention also relates to immortalized B cells that produce, and to epitopes that bind to, such antibodies and antibody fragments. In addition, the invention relates to the use of the antibodies, antibody fragments, and epitopes in screening methods as well as in the diagnosis, prevention, and therapy of disease.
US08435521B2 Pharmaceutical compositions capable of inducing apoptosis in tumour cells, useful for diagnosis and treatment of B-chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
The present invention is related to the branch of immunology and particularly with the generation of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a humanized monoclonal antibody recognizing the leukocyte differentiation antigen CD6. Accordingly with that statement, the purpose of this invention is to provide pharmaceutical compositions comprising a humanized anti-CD6 monoclonal antibody for the diagnosis and treatment of Lymphoproliferative Syndromes and particularly the B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. The essence of the invention consist in the application of a humanized Monoclonal Antibody that recognizes the CD6 antigen, the generation of pharmaceutical compositions comprising that antibody being able to induce apoptosis of malignant cells from B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia patients, reaching a clinical and a histological antitumor efficacy. The field of application of the present invention extends to the Oncology.
US08435519B2 Antibodies that bind alpha subunit of sodium potassium ATPase
Activation sites on the alpha subunit of sodium potassium ATPase have been discovered. It has also been discovered that certain antibodies that bind to the alpha subunit of sodium potassium ATPase dramatically increase enzyme activity. There has never before been a report of precise activation sites or drug interaction sites for sodium potassium ATPase. Certain methods have also been discovered for treating or preventing diseases associated with low sodium potassium ATPase activity by administering antibodies, antibody fragments and small molecules that bind to the activation sites on the alpha subunit of sodium potassium ATPase.
US08435518B2 Methods of using IL-17 receptor a antibodies
The present invention relates to IL-17 Receptor A antigen binding proteins, such as antibodies, and methods for diagnosing and treating diseases mediated by IL-17 Receptor A activation.
US08435512B2 Anti-properdin antibodies
A method of inhibiting alternative complement pathway activation in a mammal includes administering an amount of an antibody and/or fragment thereof that specifically binds to an epitope of the N terminus end of properdin effective to the inhibit alternative complement pathway in the subject.
US08435509B2 Creation of a biological atrioventricular bypass to compensate for atrioventricular block
The invention provides a method of creating an atrioventricular bypass tract for a heart comprising growing mesenchymal stem cells into a strip with two ends, and attaching one end of the strip onto the atrium of the heart, and attaching the other end of the strip to the ventricle of the heart. By this attachment, a tract is created that connects the atrium to the ventricle to provide a path for electrical signals generated by the sinus node to propagate across the tract and excite the ventricle.
US08435508B2 Cloned defective interfering influenza A virus
Cloned, i.e. defined, defective interfering (DI) influenza A virus is produced in embryonated hens eggs using a method which generates large quantities of DI virus material. Cloned DI virus is then used in tests on mice and ferrets given a lethal challenge of wild-type influenza A virus. When cloned DI influenza A virus is co-administered with a lethal dose of virulent influenza A virus, mice are protected compared to a control of inactivated cloned DI influenza A virus. Mice which survived the administration of cloned DI influenza A virus and infective challenge virus are three weeks later still protected against lethal challenge with infective virus. Control mice which received only cloned DI influenza A virus and no lethal challenge are not protected three weeks later on lethal challenge with infective virus.
US08435503B2 Ophthalmic and ophthalmological use of a complex nutritive base in aqueous medium
The invention relates to a trophic composition in an aqueous medium comprising a complex nutritive base. The aforementioned base comprises, as a minimum, multiple amino acids, vitamins, trace elements and metallic salts, and is free of any cell growth factors, any biological extracts of animal or cell origin and any active therapeutic agents. The inventive composition is characterised in that, in addition to the complex nutritive base, it also comprises an inhibitor of the collagenases of corneal epithelium in humans or animals. The composition is further characterised in that it is formulated with the complex nutritive base in order to establish a pH of between 7.3 and 7.5 and an osmolarity of between 300 and 350 m Osm.
US08435497B2 Formoterol of and ciclesonide combination
The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing combinations of formoterol and ciclesonide and the use of such pharmaceutical compositions in medicine, in particular, the prophylaxis and treatment of respiratory disease.
US08435496B2 Nanoparticle clusters and methods for forming same
A method for providing nanoparticle clusters of controlled dimensions is described. The method involves an activation of individual nanoparticles and the subsequent interaction between activated particles to form a cluster.
US08435491B2 Quantification method for remaining liver function and novel liver receptor imaging agent
A test indicator for quantifying remaining liver function is provided. A novel liver receptor imaging agent with liver targeting property is utilized to develop a method for quantifying remaining liver function to serve as test indicator for judging the liver failure outcome in clinic, particularly for judging the necessity of liver transplantation for patients with liver failure or liver disease. The radioactivity uptake of the test indicator was negatively correlated with the extent of liver reserve. The cutoff value of liver reserve for liver transplantation is also disclosed.
US08435490B2 Small peptides specifically bind to colorectal cancers
Cancers are extremely heterogeneous in terms of the frequency and types of mutations present in different malignant tumors. Thus, it is likely that uniform clinical treatment is not optimal for all patients, and that the development of individualized therapeutic regimens may be beneficial. Multiple, unique small peptides bind to cell lines derived from different colon adenocarcinomas. Within two hours of contact, the colorectal cancer cells are able to transfer a 32P radioisotope from the small peptides to cellular proteins; the transfer occurs at a substantially higher rate than in the colorectal cancer cells than in cell lines derived from other cancers or from normal tissues.
US08435483B2 Method for making ammonium metatungstate
A method for producing ammonium metatungstate from ammonium paratungstate includes preparing an ammonium paratungstate mixture including solid ammonium paratungstate and water. The mixture is contacted with a cation exchange material to lower a pH of the mixture to a pH range wherein metatungstate ion is stable and an insoluble tungstic acid is not formed. The pH of the mixture may be maintained in the pH range until the ammonium paratungstate mixture is converted into an ammonium metatungstate solution.
US08435480B2 Method for synthesizing one-dimensional helical nanoporous structures and method for synthesizing glycine-derived surfactant for synthesizing helical nanoporous structures
Disclosed herein are a method for synthesizing one-dimensional helical mesoporous structure, in which a self-assembled structure of a glycine-derived surfactant is used as a template at room temperature to synthesize the one-dimensional helical mesoporous silica structures having a uniform pore size and a method for synthesizing a glycine-derived surfactant for synthesizing the helical nanoporous structures, in which relatively expensive surfactant can be easily recovered using an organic solvent and reused, which provides economical and environment friendly effects and the glycine-derived surfactant is synthesized by homogeneously heating a reaction product of glycine and phthalic anhydride by dielectric heating with irradiation of microwave, whereby it is possible to realize high yield of the glycine-derived surfactant, shortened synthesis time and increase in energy efficiency, leading to improvement in productivity and reduction in production cost.
US08435477B2 Dispersions of submicron doped silicon particles
Methods are described that have the capability of producing submicron/nanoscale particles, in some embodiments dispersible, at high production rates. In some embodiments, the methods result in the production of particles with an average diameter less than about 75 nanometers that are produced at a rate of at least about 35 grams per hour. In other embodiments, the particles are highly uniform. These methods can be used to form particle collections and/or powder coatings. Powder coatings and corresponding methods are described based on the deposition of highly uniform submicron/nanoscale particles.
US08435476B2 Process for supplying a fuel cell with hydrogen by means of silanes or polysilanes
Process for supplying a fuel cell with hydrogen, which includes the steps:—intermediate storage of (poly)silanes or (poly)silane solutions—transfer of the (poly)silanes to a reaction chamber—reaction or hydrolysis of the silanes or silane solutions in the reaction chamber with an aqueous solution to liberate H2,—removal of the solid and/or liquid reaction products from the reaction chamber,—transfer of the H2 formed to the fuel cell. The invention also relates to a hydrogen generator for fuel cells based on silanes.
US08435474B2 Surface-treated metal oxide particles
The invention provides metal oxide particles surface-treated with at least one alkoxysilane compound, methods of making such, and toners comprising same.
US08435473B2 Superconducting compound and method for producing the same
Disclosed is a superconducting compound which has a structure obtained by partially substituting oxygen ions of a compound, which is represented by the following chemical formula; LnTMOPh [wherein Ln represents at least one element selected from Y and rare earth metal elements (La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu), TM represents at least one element selected from transition metal elements (Fe, Ru, Os, Ni, Pd and Pt), and Pn represents at least one element selected from pnictide elements (N, P, As and Sb)] and has a ZrCuSiAs-type crystal structure (space group P4/nmm), with at least one kind of monovalent anion (F−, Cl− or Br−). The superconducting compound alternatively has a structure obtained by partially substituting Ln ions of the compound with at least one kind of tetravalent metal ion (Ti4+, Zr4+, Hf4+, C4+, Si4+, Ge4+, Sn4+ or Pb4+) or a structure obtained by partially substituting Ln ions of the compound with at least one kind of divalent metal ion (Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+ or Ba2+). The Tc of the superconducting compound is controlled in accordance with the ion substitution amount.
US08435468B2 Processes for preparing highly pure lithium carbonate and other highly pure lithium containing compounds
The invention generally relates to methods of selectively removing lithium from various liquids, methods of producing high purity lithium carbonate, methods of producing high purity lithium hydroxide, and methods of regenerating resin.
US08435466B2 Methods of metal extraction from ammoniacal solutions using oximes
Provided are methods using ketoximes and/or aldoximes, including 3-methyl-5-alkylsalicylaldoxime and/or 3-methyl-5-alkyl-2-hydroxyacetophenone oxime, in reagent compositions for metal extraction/isolation. One such method is of extracting a metal from an aqueous ammoniacal solution. Metals that can be extracted include nickel, zinc and copper.
US08435464B2 System and method for pipetting of fluids, method for calibrating the system
A system and a method for the automated pipetting of fluids are disclosed as well as a method for calibrating the system. A channel pump having at least one tip-sided port connected to a pipetting tip by a tip-sided pump conduit for generating a positive or negative pressure in the pipetting tip, and at least one reservoir-sided port connected to a system fluid reservoir by a reservoir-sided pump conduit is provided. The channel pump when operated at a nominal flow rate exhibits a fluid backflow caused by a pressure difference in the tip- and reservoir-sided pump conduits which results in an effective flow rate compared to the nominal flow rate. Such a pressure difference can be used to determine an extended pipetting period which extends a pipetting period of the channel pump operating at the nominal flow rate, and to calibrate the system.
US08435463B2 Method and apparatus for analyte processing
An apparatus includes a housing having a support surface to support a cartridge, a socket attached to the housing, and an actuator associated with the socket. The socket surface includes one or more socket positioning members, a plurality of electrical contacts and a plurality of magnets. The socket is configured to move relative to the support surface of the housing, with the one or more socket positioning members located in a fixed relation to the plurality of electrical contacts so that when the socket is spaced proximate to the support surface of the housing, the one or more socket positioning members engage with the one or more cartridge positioning members to align the plurality of electrical contacts of the socket with the plurality of electrical contact pads of the cartridge. The actuator is configured to align each magnet with a respective fluid conduit of the processing device.
US08435461B2 Analytical devices with integrated desiccant
An analytical device for performing an assay to determine the presence or approximate quantity of at least one analyte in a liquid sample is described. The device is manufactured to include an integrated desiccant within at least a test strip of the device. Addition of an integrated desiccant within the device improves signal to noise ratio, eases the manufacturing process, and saves in cost of production of the device.
US08435460B2 Sterilized connection apparatus
A sterilized connection apparatus 4 includes a sealing unit 9 which forms a decontamination space S1 between an isolator 2 provided with a first cover body 11 and an incubator 3 provided with a second cover body 21, a decontamination medium supplying unit 10 which supplies a decontamination medium to the decontamination space S1 via a supply pipe line 41, and a discharge pipe line 43 which discharges the decontamination medium of the decontamination space S1. Since the decontamination space is formed as a circular decontamination space of a small capacity surrounding the cover bodies, decontamination can be efficiently performed.
US08435452B2 Circulating fluid bed reactor with improved circulation
A circulating fluid bed reactor such as that used in fluid coking processes has a circular dense bed reaction section above the reactor base where the fluidizing gas is injected and a plurality of frusto-conical baffles in the dense bed reaction section, each of which depends downwardly and radially inwards from the reactor wall to a lower, inner edge defining a central aperture. The baffles are preferably provided with downcomers which permit downward flow of solids and upward flow of gas through the baffles.
US08435448B2 Sensor for measuring syngas ratio in the high temperature and pressure condition
An assembly and method for gas analysis. The assembly comprises a catalyst compartment for catalytically reacting a component of a gas sample, producing one or more gas species as products. A product compartment receives the gas species, and a sensing element within the compartment senses the amount of one or more of the gas species. This amount is compared to the amount of the same gas species present in a reference compartment containing a non-catalyzed gas sample, providing the amount of the gas species produced by catalysis. Using this value, the content of the gas component in the gas sample is calculated based upon the stoichiometry of the catalyzed reaction. In preferred embodiments, the gas for analysis is a process gas for fuel production, and the catalyst is a high temperature shift catalyst that catalyzes the reaction of carbon monoxide and water into hydrogen and carbon dioxide.
US08435447B2 Integrated meter for analyzing biological samples
Analyte monitoring devices and methods therefore are provided. The devices integrate various functions of analyte monitoring, e.g., sample acquisition and testing.
US08435445B2 Mobile device for transporting, tracking, and processing medical instruments
A mobile device for transporting, tracking and processing medical instruments. The device comprises a cart including at least one receptacle for receiving an instrument container having instruments stored therein. The cart also includes plumbing for circulating processing fluids through the instrument container and a communications system for communicating tracking data associated with the instrument container and the cart.
US08435440B2 Method for forming a conductive pattern and a wired board
A groove and a recess are formed on one surface of a base material, the recess being communicated with the groove and having a width and a length longer than a width of the groove. After that, liquid droplets are landed on the recess to charge a liquid into the groove communicated with the recess. Further, the liquid charged into the groove is solidified. Accordingly, the liquid can be charged into the groove having the narrow width, by merely landing the liquid droplets on the recess having a large areal size. Therefore, a fine pattern can be easily formed on the base material.
US08435436B2 Method for forming tail fin of wind turbine
A method for forming a tail fin of wind turbine includes first pouring a proper amount of molten plastic into a mold having a cavity showing a contour of the tail fin and the mold is rotated to induce a centrifugal force that makes the plastic uniformly sticking to an inside surface of the cavity to form a tail fin that shows an aerodynamic feature of a one-piece hollow shell. The tail fin, when mounted to the wind turbine, realizes efficient and stable control of rotor blades at a front end of the nacelle in alignment with windward direction so as to improve the use of wind power and make the tail fin and the rotor blades in a weight balanced condition to thereby reduce the load applied to a yaw bearing located under the nacelle and extend the service life of the bearing.
US08435434B1 Non-symmetric multiple layer injection molded products and methods
A mold for molding an injection molded article comprises a mold cavity with a non-symmetrical portion. At least one flow leader in the non-symmetrical portion of the cavity may produce a symmetrical flow boundary in a multilayer flow downstream of the non-symmetrical portion of the mold cavity. The at least one flow leader may be a plurality of flow leaders having a flow path length that differs from the flow path length of an adjacent flow leader by no more than about 15%. The multilayer flow comprising an inner layer, an outer layer, and an interior layer. Co-injection molding apparatus and methods that may use the foregoing mold are disclosed. Similarly, co-injection molded articles and containers that may result from the foregoing mold, apparatus, and methods are disclosed.
US08435430B2 Method for increasing the rate of heat transfer of wood fibres
The present invention relates to a method for increasing the rate of heat transfer of wood boards by the use of nano particles of certain metal oxides. The invention relates to increasing the thermal conductivity of wood fibers during manufacturing of wood composites. It reduces the pressing time during production thereby increasing the overall production rate of wood composites and also increasing their strength and smoothness of surface.
US08435426B2 Electrical contact enhancing coating
The electrical contact enhancing coating is a composition that includes finely divided precious metal particles mixed with a dielectric carrier to form a coating. The dielectric carrier is a vegetable oil (preferably soybean-based) carrier of the type used as a dielectric coolant in power transformers, and is preferably high in antioxidant content. In a first embodiment, the precious metal is 100% silver having an average particle size of about 5-10 μm. In a second embodiment, the precious metal is about 65-85% silver and 15-35% gold (average particle size 0.5-1.8 μm), by weight. In a third embodiment, the precious metal is about 65-85% silver, 12.5-30% gold, and 2.5-5% palladium (average particle size 0.5-1.8 μm), by weight. The precious metals may be cryogenically treated prior to mixing with the dielectric carrier.
US08435425B2 Polar dispersion composition of carbon black
The invention provides a polar dispersion composition containing 0.5 to 30 parts by mass of an electroconductive carbon black and 0.1 to 30 parts by mass of a styrene-methoxy polyethylene glycol methacrylate copolymer, with respect to 100 parts by mass of the polar dispersion composition. The composition of the invention is easy to handle as a liquid preparation, and develops sufficient electroconductivity when processed into a conductive material.
US08435421B2 Metal-passivating CMP compositions and methods
The present invention provides chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) compositions and methods for polishing copper- and/or silver-containing substrates. The compositions of the present invention comprise a particulate abrasive, a primary film-forming metal-complexing agent, and a secondary film-forming metal-passivating agent in an aqueous carrier. Methods of polishing a substrate with the compositions of the invention are also disclosed.
US08435419B2 Methods of processing substrates having metal materials
Methods of processing substrates having metal layers are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of processing a substrate comprising a metal layer having a patterned mask layer disposed above the metal layer, the method may include etching the metal layer through the patterned mask layer; and removing the patterned mask layer using a first plasma formed from a first process gas comprising oxygen (O2) and a carbohydrate. In some embodiments, a two step method with an additional second process gas comprising chlorine (Cl2) or a sulfur (S) containing gas, may provide an efficient way to remove patterned mask residue.
US08435418B2 Ion etching of growing InP nanocrystals using microwave
High quantum yield InP nanocrystals are used in the bio-technology, bio-medical, and photovoltaic, specifically IV, III-V and III-VI nanocrystal technological applications. InP nanocrystals typically require post-generation HF treatment. Combining microwave methodologies with the presence of a fluorinated ionic liquid allows Fluorine ion etching without the hazards accompanying HF. Growing the InP nanocrystals in the presence of the ionic liquid allows in-situ etching to be achieved. The optimization of the PL QY is achieved by balancing growth and etching rates in the reaction.
US08435416B2 Method for manufacturing porous structure and method for forming pattern
A pattern forming material contains a block copolymer or graft copolymer and forms a structure having micro polymer phases, in which, with respect to at least two polymer chains among polymer chains constituting the block copolymer or graft copolymer, the ratio between N/(Nc-No) values of monomer units constituting respective polymer chains is 1.4 or more, where N represents total number of atoms in the monomer unit, Nc represents the number of carbon atoms in the monomer unit, No represents the number of oxygen atoms in the monomer unit.
US08435410B2 Surfactant-based monolithic columns, methods for making the same, and method for using the same
A method for making a surfactant-based monolithic column is provided. The method comprises providing a mixture comprising at least one surfactant monomer, at least one crosslinker, at least one initiator, and at least one porogen and polymerizing the mixture to form the surfactant-based monolithic column. The present disclosure also provides a surfactant-based monolithic column, a method for separating molecules, and a process for preparing a surfactant monomer.
US08435409B2 Activated sludge process in wastewater treatment
The present disclosure relates to methods of treating highly contaminated wastewater using waste activated sludge as an adsorbent.
US08435408B2 Medical fluid cassettes and related systems
The invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of a medical liquid comprising a liquid treatment machine and a cassette insertable therein substantially made of a rigid base body of the cassette with fitted chambers and passages and a foil covering them.
US08435406B2 Media for membrane ion exchange chromatography based on polymeric primary amines, sorption device containing that media, and chromatography scheme and purification method using the same
Media and devices, such as anion exchangers including such media, wherein the media is a membrane having a surface coated with a polymer such as a polyallylamine. The resulting membrane offers stronger binding of protein impurities and superior removal of host cell proteins from biological samples than conventional ligands based on quaternary ammonium salts, including trimethylammonium ligands. Also described is a chromatography scheme and method for purifying monoclonal antibodies, wherein the anion exchange sorber is placed downstream of an affinity column (such as Protein A or Protein G affinity column) and optionally one or more polishing devices such as cationic exchange columns. Little or no dilution of the cation exchanger pool (or affinity column exchange pool where no cation exchanger is used) is necessary to lower the conductivity of the sample. The sorber functions well to strongly bind host cell proteins and other impurities even at high conductivities and pH.
US08435405B2 Oil filter with tapping plate and sealing grommet
A sealing grommet for a fluid filter is provided. The sealing grommet includes a central portion defining an aperture; a flange portion integrally formed with the central portion, the flange portion extending outwardly from an outer periphery of the central portion, wherein a first portion of the central portion extends away from the flange portion in a first direction and a second portion of the central portion extends away from the flange portion in a second direction, the first direction being opposite to the second direction; and a first protrusion disposed on the first portion, the first protrusion being disposed on an inner surface of the central portion defining the aperture.
US08435403B2 Process for removing nitrogen
A process is described for removing a nitrogen-rich fraction from a feed fraction containing essentially nitrogen and hydrocarbons, wherein the feed fraction is partially condensed and fractionated by rectification into a nitrogen-rich fraction and a methane-rich fraction.According to the invention during an interruption in the supply of the feed fraction, the separation column(s) (T1/T2) used for the fractionation by rectification and also the heat exchangers used for the partial condensation (E1) of the feed fraction and the cooling and warming of process streams occurring in the fractionation by rectification (E2) are kept by means of one or more differing cooling media (6-11) at temperature levels which correspond essentially to the temperature levels during standard operation of the separation column(s) (T1/T2) and the heat exchangers (E1, E2).
US08435402B2 Nozzle reactor and method of use
A method of cracking hydrocarbon material in a nozzle reactor. The method includes a step of providing a nozzle reactor, a step of injecting a stream of cracking material into the reactor body of the nozzle reactor, and a step of injecting hydrocarbon material into the reactor body of the nozzle reactor, wherein the cracking material is methanol, ethanol, ethane, propane, biodiesel, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, or combinations thereof. The cracking material can also include steam. The hydrocarbon material can be injected into the reactor body at a direction transverse to the direction the cracking material is injected into the reactor body.
US08435401B2 Fluidized catalytic cracker with active stripper and methods using same
A staged fluidized catalytic cracker and method for cracking a hydrocarbonaceous material includes a plurality of staged reactors that have catalyst particles flowing in series from one reactor to the next and hydrocarbon feed that is delivered in parallel to the reactors. Between each reactor the partially spent catalyst is actively stripped to partially reactivate the catalyst. Once the catalyst is fully spent in the final reactor the catalyst can be oxidatively regenerated.
US08435399B2 Formation of patterned media by selective anodic removal followed by targeted trench backfill
A method is disclosed for defining discrete magnetic and non-magnetic regions on the magnetic film layer of a storage media substrate. The method applies anodic oxidation of a cobalt-containing magnetic film layer to remove cobalt, followed by controlled deposition of a non-magnetic matrix into the regions where the cobalt has been removed. Deposition may either be electrodeposition, collimated vacuum deposition, or other methods depending upon the composition of the non-magnetic matrix being deposited. The method may be performed in a single electrochemical cell.
US08435397B2 Device for fluid spreading and transport
A fluidic device includes a porous substrate, a wetting region extending through a first portion of the porous substrate from a first side of the substrate, in which the wetting region is permeable to fluid transport, and a non-wetting region extending through a second portion of the porous substrate from a second side of the substrate, in which the non-wetting region is operable to switch between a first state impermeable to fluid transport and a second state permeable to fluid transport.
US08435396B2 Method of detecting analyte-biomolecule interactions
The invention provides methods for detecting an interaction between an analyte and a biomolecule. The method comprises separating at least one biomolecule according to its isoelectric point in the presence of a given analyte and detecting an interaction between the analyte and a biomolecule using fluorescence anisotropy. The method may further comprise collecting the analyte-biomolecule complex and analyzing the biomolecule.
US08435387B2 Small-scale method and apparatus for separating mixtures
The present invention generally relates to the small-scale separation of a mixture of two or more components with different boiling points into enriched fractions. In some embodiments, a first and second fluid (e.g., a liquid and a gas, a liquid and a liquid, etc.) are passed through a channel. The first fluid may include at least two components, each with a unique boiling point. Upon contacting the first and second fluids within the channel, at least a portion of the most volatile of the components in the first fluid (i.e., the component with the lowest boiling point) may be transferred from the first fluid to the second fluid. In some instances, the transfer of the volatile component(s) from the first fluid to the second fluid may be expedited by heating, in some cases above the boiling point(s) of the component(s) to be transferred from the first fluid to the second fluid. Contact between the first and second fluids may be maintained, for example, via segmented flow, bubbling flow, etc. In some instances, separation between the first and second fluids may be maintained in a channel that is essentially free of interior microchannel surface irregularities.
US08435386B2 Method and apparatus for recycle of knockout drum bottoms
A process and apparatus for cracking a hydrocarbon feed in a steam cracking furnace by withdrawing a resid-rich stream from a resid knockout vessel and recycling the resid-rich stream through a convection heating section of the furnace.
US08435383B2 Process and machine for making air dried tissue
Described herein is a new concept in air dried tissue (ADT). The wet tissue web is received from the wet end of a papermaking machine and dried by an air floatation dryer that uses an endless loop to transport and support the wet tissue web as it is dried.
US08435382B2 High solids glyoxalated polyacrylamide
Storage-stable glyoxalated polyacrylamide polymers and high solids aqueous compositions formulated with them are described. These glyoxalated polyacrylamide compositions can be used as additives for papermaking, providing paper with good dry and temporary wet strength, and increasing papermaking de-watering rates.
US08435379B2 Substrate cleaning chamber and cleaning and conditioning methods
A substrate cleaning chamber includes a contoured ceiling electrode having an arcuate surface that faces a substrate support and has a variable cross-sectional thickness to vary the gap size between the arcuate surface and the substrate support to provide a varying plasma density across the substrate support. A dielectric ring for the cleaning chamber comprises a base, a ridge, and a radially inward ledge that covers the peripheral lip of the substrate support. A base shield comprises a circular disc having at least one perimeter wall. Cleaning and conditioning processes for the cleaning chamber are also described.
US08435373B2 Systems and methods for roll-to-roll patterning
Systems and methods are disclosed by which patterns of various materials can be formed on flexible substrates by a continuous roll-to-roll manufacturing process. The patterns may include metallic, transparent conductive, or non-metallic elements with lateral dimensions including in the range from below 100 nanometers to millimeters and with thickness dimensions including the range from tens of Angstroms to greater than 10,000 Angstroms. The substrate may be any material capable of sufficient flexibility for compatibility with roll-based processing equipment, including polymeric films, metallic foils, and thin glass, with polymeric films representing a particularly broad field of application. Methods may include the continuous roll-to-roll formation of a temporary polymeric structure with selected areas open to the underlying substrate, the continuous addition or subtraction of constituent materials, and the continuous removal, where necessary, of the polymeric structure and any excess material.
US08435372B1 Manufacture of versatile flexible cover using mandrel
A flexible container cover with an elastic gathering band around its edge is formed from a rectangular sheet of plastic film with recessed cut corners to form four flaps. The sheet is placed atop a mandrel having a rectangular flat top with eaves or undercut surfaces and four corner slots. Four hooks are positioned outside the slots so they underlie the cut-off corners of the sheet. An elastic band is stretched around the hooks and the flaps of the sheet. The hooks are moved inwardly into the slots to allow the segments of the band to pull and fold a middle portion of each flap inward. A set of tucker blades is then moved inward to push the folded portions of the flaps against side surfaces of the mandrel under the eaves. Four heat-sealing bars are moved up against the eaves to seal the flaps around the segments of the band to form hems.
US08435371B2 Method of preparing glass and ceramic enamels on glass for adhesive bonding
In one embodiment, the invention is a method comprising contacting a composition comprising i) alumina particles having a particle size of about 1 to about 40 microns and a Mohs hardness of about 9.0 to about 9.5; ii) one or more alkyl sulphates; iii) one or more thickeners; and iv) water with the surface of glass or a ceramic frit disposed on the surface of glass. The contacting can be performed by applying the composition to the surface of the glass or the ceramic frit using an application apparatus. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a lubricant. In another embodiment, the composition further comprises one or more ethoxylated alcohols. In another embodiment, the composition further comprises one or more fragrances.
US08435370B2 Prepregs for use in building lay-ups of composite materials and processes for their preparation
The invention concerns a process for making a scrim-reinforced prepreg for use in building low-porosity lay-ups, characterized in that a conventional prepreg is formed of a fibrous reinforcement and a heat-curable resin, the prepreg having suitable viscosity and sufficient tackiness to hold a scrim which is adhered to the prepreg by applying light pressure, so that the scrim is impressed onto the prepreg to such a degree, that less than half of the circumference of the scrim strands becomes coated by the prepreg-resin.
US08435367B2 Fixed head insulated glass edge sealing device
An insulated glass secondary edge sealing device that dispenses sealant to insulated glass units including at least two panes of glass separated by a spacer, including a fixed sealant dispensing head, a table that supports the insulated glass units, a fence, a depth sensor, a linear motion encoder, a metering device. The sealant dispensing head has a dispensing nozzle and a corner dam. The dispensing nozzle includes a floating insulated glass unit contact surface and the corner dam is shiftable between a retracted position and an extended position. A control unit receives signals from the depth sensor and the linear motion encoder and controls the metering device to dispense a measured flow of sealant based on the depth of the inset of the spacer and the movement of the insulated glass unit parallel to the fence and relative to the encoder.
US08435366B2 Sheet peeling apparatus and sheet peeling method
A sheet peeling apparatus 10 includes: a sticking means 14 for sticking a peeling tape PT by pressing the peeling tape PT onto an adhesive sheet S; a moving means 15 for moving the peeling tape PT stuck to the adhesive sheet S and a holding means 11 for holding a wafer W relative to each other to peel the adhesive sheet S; a detecting means 17 for detecting the position of the outer periphery of the adhesive sheet S, and outputting a signal thereof; an input means 18 for inputting a correction value; a controlling means 19 for determining a pressing position of the peeling tape PT to the adhesive sheet S based on the output signal from the detecting means 17 and the correction value, and controlling the moving means 15 so as to stick the adhesive sheet S at the pressing position.
US08435364B2 Hypergolic liquid or gel fuel mixtures
Hypergolic liquid or gel fuel mixtures utilized in bipropellant propulsion systems are disclosed as replacements for fuels containing toxic monomethylhydrazine. The fuel mixtures include one or more amine azides mixed with one or more tertiary diamine, tri-amine or tetra-amine compounds. The fuel mixtures include N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) mixed with 2-N,N-dimethylaminoethylazide (DMAZ), TMEDA mixed with tris(2-azidoethyl)amine (TAEA), and TMEDA mixed with one or more cyclic amine azides. Each hypergolic fuel mixture provides a reduced ignition delay for combining with an oxidant in fuel propellant systems. The fuel mixtures have advantages in reduced ignition delay times compared to ignition delay times for each unmixed component, providing a synergistic effect which was not predictable from review of each component's composition. Additional fuel mixtures include various tertiary diamine, tertiary tri-amine or tetra-amine compounds combined with one or more amine azides or imidic amide compounds, to provide clean burning, high performing, and non-toxic fuels.
US08435360B2 Anti-corrosion treatment for conversion layers
The invention relates to a method for producing a coating layer protecting against corrosion wherein a surface which is to be treated is brought into contact with an aqueous treatment solution containing chromium(III) ions and at least one phosphate compound, wherein the ratio of the molar concentration of the chromium(III) ions to the molar concentration of the at least one phosphate compound (calculated as orthophosphate) lies between 1:1.5 and 1:3. The method improves the corrosion protection of metallic, in particular, zinc-containing, surfaces provided with conversion layers. The decorative and functional properties of the surface are maintained or improved. Furthermore, the known problems resulting from the use of chromium(VI)-containing compounds or from post-treatments with polymer dispersions are avoided.
US08435357B2 Tablet compressing machine
A tablet compressing machine and a process for cleaning a tablet compressing machine with a rotor unit, in which an actuator is provided for the purpose of tilting a sealed housing of the tablet compressing machine, in which the rotor unit, a rinsing unit and the powder supply are disposed, so that the cleaning liquid may drain off horizontal surfaces in the sealed housing. The process therefore comprises the steps of distributing the cleaning liquid, tilting the tablet compressing machine and discharging the cleaning liquid. Retrofitting of existing tablet compressing machines is possible.
US08435356B2 Device and method for wet treating disc-like substrates
A method for wet treatment of wafers includes a first plate and a second plate substantially parallel to the first plate, and a wafer is held between the first and the second plate substantially parallel. A first dispenser introduces fluid into a first gap between the first plate and the wafer when being treated, and a second dispenser introduces fluid into a second gap between the second plate and the wafer when being treated. At least one vibrating element is acoustically coupled to at least the second plate, and a holder and the second plate are rotated relative to each other about an axis substantially perpendicular to the second plate.
US08435355B2 Fractionation of lignocellulosic material using ionic liquids
Lignocellulosic biomass materials are fractionated by dissolving at least a portion of the lignocellulosic material in an ionic liquid and separating the resulting mixture into a cellulose-enriched fraction and/or a lignin-enriched fraction. The cellulose-enriched fraction contains about 10 percentage points more glucose than the weight percent glucose contained in the original lignocellulosic biomass material. In certain embodiments, the lignin-enriched fraction includes a lignin content that is 5 percentage points greater than the weight percent lignin present in the original lignocellulosic material. The techniques used to isolate the cellulose-enriched fractions and/or the lignin-enriched fractions from the ionic liquid mixture do not employ environmentally unfriendly solvents.
US08435350B2 Supply device
A device for supplying a large number of consumer stations with a predetermined amount of a process medium, in particular a coating device for containers, has a supply line for the process medium and a connection at the consumer station. In order to make such a device simpler from the structural point of view and less expensive, a unit is used, which keeps a predetermined flow rate constant and which comprises a capillary path extending before each connection and dimensioned in accordance with the predetermined amount of process medium, and a unit which is associated with a plurality of connections and which is used for maintaining a defined flow velocity along the capillary path.
US08435349B2 Epitaxial reactor for mass production of wafers
A high throughput reactor for the mass production of wafers through chemical vapor deposition, mainly to form silicon epitaxies for the photovoltaic industry, is described. Main innovation is a high susceptor stacking density: several graphite susceptors are placed vertically and parallel to one another, electrically interconnected, and are heated by Joule effect. Electrical current gets to the susceptors from the current source through specially designed feedthroughs, which connect the cold room outside the deposition chamber with the hot susceptors. Gas flows vertically between susceptors. The substrates on which deposition occurs are placed on the susceptors. Below the susceptors a pre-chamber is found, in which entering gas calms down and distributes homogeneously. Susceptors and pre-chamber are placed inside a stainless steel chamber, which is internally covered by a reflecting material, and externally kept cold by water. Both susceptors and pre-chamber are fixed to a connection panel, which also contains electrical feedthroughs, thermocouple feedthroughs, and gas inlet and outlet. Outlet gases are partially recycled, with the corresponding gas savings and increased deposition efficiency.
US08435347B2 High pressure apparatus with stackable rings
A high pressure apparatus and related methods for processing supercritical fluids is described. The apparatus includes a capsule, a heater, at least one ceramic ring with one or more scribe marks and/or cracks present. The apparatus optionally has a metal sleeve containing each ceramic ring. The apparatus also has a high-strength enclosure, end flanges with associated insulation, and a power control system. The apparatus is capable of accessing pressures and temperatures of 0.2-2 GPa and 400-1200° C., respectively.
US08435346B2 Crystallization apparatus, crystallization method, phase modulation element, device and display apparatus
A phase modulation element according to the present invention has a first area having a first phase value based on a phase modulation unit having a predetermined size and a second area having a second phase value based on the phase modulation unit having the predetermined size, and each phase distribution is defined by a change in area shares of the first area and the second area depending on each position.
US08435341B2 Preparing and dispersing surface-modified colour pigments
A method of preparing a pigment includes in order the steps of: a) providing a pigment containing a nucleophile group under basic conditions; b) reacting the pigment with 1,4-butane sultone or 1,3-propane sultone in an alkaline medium to form sulfobutyl groups respectively sulfopropyl groups on the pigment surface; and c) adding acid to convert the sulfobutyl groups or sulfopropyl groups to sulfonic acid groups. Pigments obtainable by the method and non aqueous pigment dispersions are also disclosed.
US08435340B2 Low titianium dioxide coatings
An aqueous coating composition having a PVC of from 78 to 88% comprising, based on the total volume solids of the dry coating unless otherwise stated:a) opacifying pigment particles comprising i) from 3 to 10% titanium dioxide, ii) from 0 to 20% of hollow polymeric particles; b) non-opacifying extender particles comprising i) calcium magnesium carbonate, and/or ii) calcium carbonate, and/or iii) nepheline syenite, and/or iv) kaolin, wherein i)+ii)+iii)+iv)=40 to 80%, and iv) is 0 to 20%; c) polymer binder particles of calculated Fox Tg of from 25 to 70° C. having an acid value of from 15 to 65 mg KOH/g of polymer and wherein the polymer particles are derived from acrylic monomers and optionally further comprising styrene and/or its derivatives; d) dispersant having a weight average molecular weight of at least 3500 Daltons; e) fugitive coalescing solvent; wherein the composition is free of non-fugitive coalescing solvent.
US08435337B2 Variable intake-type air cleaner
An air cleaner that filters air supplied into an engine may include a lower case that has an intake port through which external air flows inside, a filter that may be disposed in the lower case and filters and allows the air flowing inside through the intake port, and an upper case that may be coupled to an upper portion of the lower case and has an exhaust pipe to discharge the air filtered by the filter to the engine, wherein an inlet of the exhaust pipe may be formed inside the upper case and an outlet may be formed to be connected to the outside of the upper case, the inlet of the exhaust pipe may be divided into a first inlet and a second inlet, and a fan that controls the exhaust amount of air to the outlet of the exhaust pipe may be disposed in the second inlet.
US08435333B2 Photo-switchable membrane and method
Switchable gas permeation membranes in which a photo-switchable low-molecular-weight liquid crystalline (LC) material acts as the active element, and a method of making such membranes. Different LC eutectic mixtures were doped with mesogenic azo dyes and infused into track-etched porous membranes with regular cylindrical pores. Photo-induced isothermal phase changes in the imbibed mesogenic material afforded large, reversible changes in the permeability of the photo-switchable membrane to nitrogen. For example, membranes imbibed with a photo-switchable cyanobiphenyl LC material demonstrated low permeability in the nematic state, while the photo-generated isotropic state demonstrated a 16×-greater sorption coefficient. Both states obey a high linear sorption behavior in accordance with Henry's Law. In contrast, membranes imbibed with a photo-switchable phenyl benzoate LC material showed the opposite permeability behavior to the biphenyl-imbibed membrane, along with nonlinear sorption behavior.
US08435316B2 Bonded abrasive articles and methods of forming
A method of forming an abrasive article includes forming a mixture comprising a liquid carrier and a glass precursor material, wherein the glass precursor material comprises a material selected from the group of materials consisting of a hydrated metal compound, an organic silicate compound, or a combination thereof. The method further includes providing abrasive grains within the mixture, forming the mixture into a green ceramic body, and heating the green ceramic body to form a bonded abrasive article comprising the abrasive grains contained within a bond matrix, wherein the bond matrix comprises an amorphous phase formed from the glass precursor material.
US08435313B2 Fuel composition
A fuel composition includes a ring-hydrogenated alkyl furfuryl ether of the general formula (I): R″-TF-CH2-O—R or a mixture of the ethers, where TF represents a 2,5-disubstituted tetrahydrofuran ring, where each R independently represents a hydrocarbyl group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms and where each R″ independently represents a methyl group, a hydroxymethyl group, the product of an aldol condensation reaction or an alkoxymethyl group of the general formula (II): —CH2-O—R′, where each R′ independently represents a hydrocarbyl group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, in combination with diesel fuels of petroleum origin or diesel fuels of bioorganic origin.
US08435311B2 Method of collecting, transporting and cleaning soiled textiles
A method of collecting soiled textiles to be cleaned, comprising the steps of providing a container having an open end, a closed end, and sides extending therebetween, providing a sling having an open end, a second end, and sides extending therebetween disposed in and supported by said container, providing a water soluble bag having an open end, a closed end, and sides extending therebetween and made of a plastic film having a thickness of at least 1.3 mils, wherein said bag dissolves in water at a temperature of 165° F. in less than about 250 seconds, does not dissolve in water at a temperature of 85° F. in 7 days, being capable of containing at least 175 lbs. of soiled textiles, and having a capacity of at least 50 gallons, wherein said bag is disposed in and supported by said sling, and wherein soiled textiles deposited in said container are contained in said bag.
US08435307B2 Reinforcement device with dissolvable layer and its use
A reinforcement device for reinforcing tissues having one or more structural deficiencies includes a longitudinally-extending reinforcing layer for treating the structural deficiency, a plurality of spiked naps distributed across the reinforcing layer and projecting therefrom for adhering to the tissue, and a dissolvable matrix layer covering at least a portion of the reinforcing layer and a portion of the plurality of spiked naps. The matrix layer increases the time before the spiked naps substantially adhere to the tissue, thereby allowing the practitioner additional time to position the reinforcement device.
US08435302B2 Instruments and interbody spinal implants enhancing disc space distraction
An apparatus for distracting a disc space having an annulus. The apparatus includes a spinal implant having a pre-determined size sufficient to balance frictional fit in the disc space and elongation of the annulus. The implant has a top surface, a bottom surface, opposing lateral sides, and opposing anterior and posterior portions defining a substantially hollow center and a single vertical aperture. At least one of the opposing anterior and posterior portions presents a substantially flat impact face including an opening with an instrument retention feature. The apparatus also includes a rasp, a plurality of distractors, and an instrument able to engage and manipulate the spinal implant, the rasp, and the plurality of distractors. The size-specific rasp is adapted to clear the disc space of all soft tissue and cartilage. The plurality of distractors have progressively increasing heights adapted to distract the disc space before use of the spinal implant.
US08435298B2 Expandable fusion device and method of installation thereof
The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube.
US08435297B2 Intervertebral disc replacement
Instrumentation for implanting a cervical disc replacement device includes cervical disc replacement trials for determining the appropriate size of replacement device to be implanted, an insertion plate for maintaining the elements of the replacement device in fixed relation to one another for simultaneous manipulation, an insertion handle for attachment to the insertion plate for manipulation of the elements, an insertion pusher for releasing the insertion handle from the insertion plate, a drill guide that cooperates with the insertion plate to guide the drilling of tap holes for bone screws to be placed through bone screw holes in the flanges of the replacement device, clips that are applied to the flanges after placement of the bone screws to resist screw backout, and a clip applicator for applying the clips to the flanges.
US08435296B2 Hydraulically actuated expanding spine cage with extendable locking anchor
A spinal implant which is configured to be deployed between adjacent vertebral bodies. The implant has at least one extendable support element with a retracted configuration to facilitate deployment of the implant and an extended configuration so as to expand the implant and effectively distract the disc space, stabilize the motion segments and eliminate pathologic spine motion. Angular deformities can also be corrected, and natural curvatures restored. Preferably, the implant has a minimal dimension in its unexpanded state that is smaller than the dimensions of the neuroforamen through which it typically passes to be deployed within the intervertebral space. The implant is provided with a locking system preferably having a plurality of locking elements to lock the implant in an extended configuration. Bone engaging anchors also may be provided to ensure secure positioning.
US08435295B2 System and method for intervertebral implant delivery and removal
An implant system provides motion preservation or stabilization between two spinal vertebrae. An associated instrumentation system is capable of delivering and removing the implants from either the anterior, left lateral or right lateral positions. The instrumentation system also provides instrumentation for delivering the implant end plates into the disc space, adjusting the position of the end plates in situ, compressing end plates into the vertebral bodies, interoperatively determining the height and angulation of bearings, delivering bearings together and then independently connecting them to the end plates. The system provides alternative instrumentation for revising the motion preservation disc from at least three directions. The system further provides alternative instrumentation for converting the motion preservation disc system to an interbody fusion device from at least three directions.
US08435294B2 Devices, systems and methods for material fixation
Devices, systems and methods for fixation of tendon to bone are described. An exemplary surgical implant is a modified bone anchor that is able to grasp the tendon and hold it firmly in a bone tunnel. Once deployed, the anchor delivers lateral compression to the tendon, providing direct tendon to bone compression to facilitate healing. The anchor has different versions which allow it to be attached to the tendon prior to insertion into the bone tunnel, or be inserted between tendon arms when the surgical procedure dictates. The resulting tendon to bone compression allows for the firm fixation in a manner markedly simpler than traditional techniques. A modification of this anchor can also allow the anchor to grasp and hold suture. This variation facilitates the technique for knotless rotator cuff repair.
US08435290B2 System and method for treatment of non-ventilating middle ear by providing a gas pathway through the nasopharynx
Methods and devices for providing a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube are provided. One device may include a lumen with a valve. A portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent muscle. Another portion of the valve may be tethered to adjacent cartilage. When the muscle contracts the valve may open through movement of the tethers, and provide a gas pathway between the nasopharynx and the Eustachian tube.
US08435288B2 System and method for storing, shipping and injecting ocular devices
A shipping system for a medical device, such as implantable lens for an eye, is provided that may be reconfigured from a shipping mode into an injection mode without manually handling the contained lens or other device. Upon manufacture, a lens may be placed within the system assembly in the shipping configuration. While in the shipping configuration, the lens is kept in its desired shape and within a selected environment. Upon arrival at the destination, the user may attach fittings for injection of the device into a body. The process of changing from the shipping to the injection mode deforms the device into a shape suitable for injection.
US08435281B2 Bioerodible, implantable medical devices incorporating supersaturated magnesium alloys
A bioerodible, implantable medical device that includes a supersaturated magnesium alloy. The magnesium alloy includes magnesium and at least one alloying element present in a concentration in excess of the equilibrium solid solubility concentration of the alloying element in hexagonal close-packed magnesium [at 25° C.].
US08435278B2 System and method for determining and controlling core body temperatue
Systems and methods for accurate temperature modification of a patient, or selected regions thereof, including inducing hypothermia. The temperature modification is accomplished using an in-dwelling heat exchange catheter within which a fluid heat exchange medium circulates. A heat exchange cassette attached to the circulatory flow lines of the catheter, the heat exchange cassette being sized to engage a cavity within a control unit. A temperature measurement scheme for obtaining body core temperature is provided, including methods of obtaining and analyzing temperature data to provide feedback to the control unit for use in controlling the heating and cooling of the heat exchange medium so as to heat or cool a patient to a desired target temperature.
US08435273B2 High powered light emitting diode photobiology device
A high-powered light emitting diode (LED) photobiology (phototherapy) device is disclosed in the accompanying specification. The contemplated photobiology (phototherapy) device may be used in the treatment of various aesthetic and medical or other conditions. The phototherapy device may include a number of select LEDs for emitting a desired range or ranges of wavelengths of high intensity light for use in treatment. Additionally, the phototherapy treatment includes one or more methods for providing a treatment appropriate to the condition desired to be treated. The phototherapy device provides for a variety of high power light settings, intensity levels, and selectable time intervals for providing treatment.
US08435270B2 Orthognathic implant and methods of use
An implant for use in orthognathic surgery of a mandible may include a longitudinal plate member and a plurality of pre-configured guides coupled to the plate member. The longitudinal plate member is pre-bent to correspond to the post-operative shape of the mandible; and the guides are pre-configured to align the plate member with the mandible when the implant is positioned against the mandible after the mandible has been separated.
US08435267B2 Spine fixation method and apparatus
A spine fixation assembly connecting a first vertebra to a second vertebra includes first and second mounting assemblies and a first spinal stabilization component. The first mounting assembly is configured to be attached to a first location of the first vertebra and includes a first bone anchor housing and first and second spinal stabilization component housings extending from the first bone anchor housing. The second mounting assembly is configured to be attached to a first location of the second vertebra and includes a second bone anchor housing and third and fourth spinal stabilization component housings extending from the second housing. The first spinal stabilization component includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end and is configured to connect the first mounting assembly to the second mounting assembly. The first spinal stabilization component housing is adapted to receive and connect to the first end of the spinal stabilization component and the third spinal stabilization component housing is adapted to receive and connect to the second end of the spinal stabilization component.
US08435264B2 Knotless suture anchor and driver
A suture anchor has a tubular body having an axial bore therethrough and having one or more purchase enhancements on an exterior surface of the body adapted to enhance purchase of the body within a bone hole, such as threads. A lateral port passes through the body from the bore to the exterior surface. A length of suture for attaching soft tissue to bone passes down along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements, over a distal end of the body, up into the bore through and then back out of the bore and up along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements.
US08435252B2 Wound closure device
A suturing device includes a housing having an elongated tubular member extending from a distal end thereof. A head assembly is disposed at a distal end of the elongated tubular member and is configured to retain a portion of a suture therein. At least one arm member is positioned about the elongated tubular member. Each arm members includes a ferrule assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. Each ferrule assembly is positioned within a recess defined within the elongated tubular member and is configured to releasably retain a ferrule therein. Each ferrule is configured to retain a portion of the suture therein. Each arm member is rotatable to thereby rotate the ferrule assembly disposed thereon between a first position and a second position. The ferrule assembly extends at least partially radially outwardly from the recess in one of the first and second positions.
US08435251B2 Docking station for a skin treatment device having a cooling member
A docking station for a skin treatment device has a cooling member including an evacuator for lowering a pressure inside the cooling member, and a connector for connecting an interior of the cooling member to a sorbent. The sorbent may include a zeolite. Further, a skin treatment device such as an epilator includes a cooling member for containing the cooling agent.
US08435250B2 Micro manipulator for electrode movement in neural signal recording
This disclosure relates to a micro manipulator having a simple structure and having high possibility of recording a biological signal of a neuron at a desired position by improving positioning resolution of an electrode disposed adjacent to a subject's brain neuron or an electrode holder attached with the electrode. The micro manipulator according to the disclosure includes: a motor which includes a shaft and a vibration portion; a mobile which is connected to the shaft so as to be movable along the shaft; and a frame which supports the motor, wherein an electrode is connected to the mobile in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the shaft, and wherein when the mobile moves linearly in accordance with a vibration of the shaft due to the vibration portion, the electrode moves linearly.
US08435248B2 Probe tip and infusion sleeve for use with ophthalmological surgery
A phacoemulsification probe includes a first portion for interconnecting the probe with a phacoemulsification machine. A probe tip has a first end connected with the first portion and a second end curved up to a predetermined angle. The probe tip defines a channel therein for aspirating material through the probe tip from a surgical region.
US08435244B2 Orthopedic tool for altering the connection between orthopedic components
An orthopedic tool for loosening the connection between orthopedic components. In one embodiment, the orthopedic tool includes a housing and a wedge. The housing has a head, an upper portion, a lower portion, and an opening between the upper and lower portions. The wedge is positioned at least partially between the upper portion and the lower portion of the housing and is actuatable to move toward the head of the housing. When at least a portion of the head of the housing is placed in mating engagement with the junction between two assembled orthopedic components, advancement of the wedge towards the head results in separation of the upper portion and lower portion of the housing. Thus, as the wedge is advanced toward the head, the upper and lower portions of the housing are separated, which results in corresponding separation of the assembled orthopedic components.
US08435243B2 Disposable reamer
A disposable acetabular reamer designed to improve tissue removal efficiency is described. The reamer device comprises a reamer cutting shell and a reamer driver interface. The reamer cutting shell has a hemispherical structure with a plurality of spaced apart rib portions that extend from a central region located about an apex of the shell. A tissue cutting surface further extends along a longitudinal leading edge, trailing edge or both leading and trailing rib portions. The tissue cutting surface further comprises a series of alternating cutting teeth and notches which are bent at a rake angle.
US08435238B2 Devices and methods for interlocking surgical screws and nails
The present invention demonstrates an improved interlocking nail and screw combination to repair fracture bones. The preferred combination uses an hourglass shaped intramedullary nail wherein the larger ends of the nail have holes capable of receiving screws. The holes may, or may not be conical. Further, the holes may or may not be threaded. The surgical screws have a variety of thread patterns, or lack threads. A non-threaded end is believed to improve healing because of a larger core diameter as compared to a comparably sized threaded screw end.
US08435234B2 Method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling laser-induced tissue treatment
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for using an imaging detector to image an optical pattern created by illumination of a viscous material that is applied to the skin. The viscous material forms a detectable pattern that can be imaged by the imaging detector. In some examples, the viscous material is reflective and allows reflection from an illumination source to create an optical pattern on the imaging detector. In other cases, the variation in thickness of an absorbing or scattering viscous substance can be imaged by the detector. Polarized illumination and detection can be used to enhance the response.
US08435229B2 Rotate-to-advance catheterization system
A steerable rotate-to-advance device for accessing a bodily passageway, said steerable rotate-to-advance device comprising: an inner flexible tube having a distal end and a proximal end, a longitudinal axis extending between said distal end and said proximal end, and a lumen extending from said distal end to said proximal end; an outer flexible tube having a distal end and a proximal end, a longitudinal axis extending between said distal end and said proximal end, and a lumen extending from said distal end to said proximal end; the outer flexible tube being disposed coaxially over the inner flexible tube and being rotatable with respect thereto; an external thread disposed over said distal end of said outer flexible tube, said external thread having a sufficient structural integrity, and a sufficient surface profile, such that when said outer flexible tube is disposed in a bodily passageway, rotation of said outer flexible tube about said longitudinal axis will result in longitudinal motion of said outer flexible tube along said bodily passageway; and at least one articulating cable secured to the distal end of said inner flexible tube at an attachment point, and extending proximally along said inner flexible tube, such that pulling the at least one articulating cable proximally causes the inner flexible tube to be bent toward the radial position of said attachment point, whereby to cause the steerable rotate-to-advance device to be steered in the direction of the attachment point.
US08435224B2 Materials for facilitating administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and related compounds
The invention relates generally to materials for facilitating the administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and related compounds. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a kit comprising items used for the safe and effective administration of DMSO. In another embodiment, the invention relates to indicating containers for holding or delivering DMSO.
US08435223B2 Reusable outer cover for an absorbent article having zones of varying properties
An absorbent article having a reusable outer cover and, optionally, an absorbent insert. The reusable outer cover has zones of varying properties. The properties of the different zones are varied to provide different performance features in different parts of the outer cover. The outer cover with zones of varying properties may provide competing or contradictory functionalities for improved comfort, fit, leakage protection, and aesthetic appeal.
US08435222B2 Merchandise display system for identifying disposable absorbent article configurations for wearers
An array of absorbent article packages for multiple baby stages of development displayed via a merchandise display system may comprise multiple packages. Each package may comprise articles having absorbent article configurations appropriate for the stage of development of an infant, newborn, or toddler. Each package may also comprise indicia representative of the appropriate stage of development of the infant, newborn, or toddler. And, absorbent article configurations may differ between packages having overlapping size ranges.
US08435218B2 Double balloon thrombectomy catheter
A catheter has a lumen for a thrombectomy device and at least two balloons of different compliancies. In one embodiment, the catheter is adapted to clear dialysis grafts. One balloon is adapted to expand a stenosis at a venous junction of a dialysis graft and another balloon is adapted to pull a stenosis at an arterial junction of a dialysis graft. A single catheter may be used to perform a dialysis thrombectomy procedure.
US08435217B2 Gas sterilizable two-part polymer delivery system
A gas sterilizable delivery system for a two-part polymer system is provided. The delivery system includes at least two syringe barrels, each barrel being sealed with a gas permeable plunger seal allowing permeation of a sterilant gas to permeate through the plunger seal allowing the entire assembly to be gas sterilized.
US08435215B2 Automatic injection device with temporizing means
The present invention relates to an injection device (1) comprising: —a container (5) receiving a product, and provided with an injection needle (6), —a housing (9, 11) receiving said container, said container being movable relative to said housing between an initial position, an insertion position, and a final position, —retaining means (12, 15), for maintaining said container in said insertion position, —deactivating means (20), for releasing said retaining means, said device being characterized in that it comprises: —temporizing means (19, 26, 27), for controlling the release of said retaining means until substantially all of the product contained within said container has passed through said injection needle before said container moves to said final position, and —a needle shield (2) coupled with said housing (9, 11) removal of said needle shield being with limited or no rotation of said needle shield. The invention also concerns a kit comprising such a device.
US08435212B2 Methods and devices for programmable delivery of microdoses of liquid drugs and other fluids
Methods and compact automatic devices are provided for delivery of micro doses of liquid drugs to a patient. Devices have a fluid supply reservoir comprising an expandable indicator supplied with a sensor, a mechanism forcing the fluid to squeeze predetermined dose out, and a processor treating sensor's signals accordingly to preprogrammed algorithm. The method comprises steps: (a) initiating the delivery cycle, (b) acquiring sensor's signals, (c) treating signals in order to integrate an intensity of output flow and to determine when the squeezing-out force must be terminated, (d) terminating the cycle accordingly to processor's command. Self-testing of devices occurs while each fluid delivery cycle. Their high dosing precision exceeds that of known analogs about two orders of magnitude. A possibility to use low cost disposable exit port assembly and/or easy replaceable factory pre-filled cartridges is an additional advantage eliminating risks of overdosing, air bubbles, and/or compromised sterility.
US08435208B2 Subcutaneous implantation instrument with a scissored dissecting tool assembly and method of construction
A subcutaneous implantation instrument with a scissored dissecting tool assembly is provided. An incising shaft longitudinally defines a substantially non-circular bore continuously formed to communicatively receive an implantable object and further includes a beveled cutting blade formed on a distal end. A dissecting tool assembly is included. A longitudinally split needle tip forms a pair of blades with cutting edges progressively defined outwardly from the needle tip. A pair of handles are each distally attached to one of the blades and pivotably coupled and disposed for transverse operation, wherein the dissecting tool assembly is removably affixable to the distal end of the incising shaft. A delivery mechanism longitudinally defines a substantially non-circular bore continuously formed to deploy the implantable object into the incising shaft.
US08435206B2 Interface for medical infusion pump
Methods and apparatus for programming a medical infusion pump are disclosed. One method includes displaying a meter having two or more locations, each of the two or more locations representing a corresponding parameter value programmable into the medical infusion pump. The method further includes displaying an indicator having a selectable positional relationship to the meter, the selected position corresponding to a parameter value.
US08435205B2 Applicator having a color gradient
An applicator having a color gradient. The applicator includes an outer member having a first end, a second end disposed opposite the first end, a longitudinal axis, a length measured along the longitudinal axis, and an exterior surface. The outer member further includes a color gradient extending along at least a portion of the length from a first region to a second region, the color gradient being visible by a user viewing the exterior surface of the outer member.
US08435201B2 Method for treating a user's back or neck using a traction system
A method for treating a user's back, a user's neck, or combinations thereof. The method can include the steps of: inserting a traction device into a pouch of a fabric garment; disposing the fabric garment over a user; engaging the traction device with a surface; and applying a pressure to the traction device using the user's back. The traction device can provide a therapeutic pressure to the user's back, to the user's neck, or to combinations thereof. The method can use a customizable traction device having a shearable fraction head and body. The shearable traction head and body can each be cut to a custom size to fit a user. The method can use a removable fabric chair cover disposed over a chair. A user can sit on the chair and apply a pressure to the traction device using the user's back.
US08435199B2 Therapeutic boots stabilization wedge
A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a therapeutic boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. A fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place.
US08435198B2 Support shell assembly for supporting and splinting legs
In a support shell assembly for supporting and splinting legs comprising a left and a right leg shell and a sole element that is fastened to the leg shells, wherein the leg shells and the sole element have fastening means for receiving a tensioning element, arranged within the support shell assembly (5) there is at least one layer of a 3D textile (1) comprising at least two layers of a textile material which are held at a defined and pressure-resilient distance from one another by flexible threads (FIG. 3).
US08435194B2 Device for RF heating and mechanical massage of biological tissue
A skin treatment device combines an RF treatment arrangement with a mechanical massage arrangement, preferably with the massage device in the form of an annular massage head encircling and rotating around the RF applicator. Also disclosed are configurations with a liquid dispenser for delivering a liquid to the skin under the device. According to one option, the skin contact surface of the RF applicator itself is provided in part by a rolling ball liquid applicator.
US08435193B2 Method and apparatus for improved cardio-pulmonary resuscitation
A cardio pulmonary CPR device and method provides enhanced circulation by an inventive sequence of states of chest compression and airway valve opening and closure. The embodiments of the invention produce enhanced circulation during cardiac arrest, while maintaining a degree of ventilation to the patient, including oxygen delivery in some embodiments. Some embodiments include mechanical compression units. Other embodiments include a compression sensor to detect manually delivered compressions.
US08435191B2 Support structure for a sensor strip and sensor strip for mounting on said support structure
The embodiments relate to a sensor strip (13) and to a flexible support strip (12) for receiving the sensor strip and for fixing the strip to a surface e.g. to the back of a test person. According to the embodiments, the sensor strip (13) has a reference point (18), (for example a snap fastener connection), with which it can be fixed to a reference surface (16) of the support strip. This allows the position of the sensor strip (13) to be unambiguously defined on the support strip (12). The further extension of the sensor strip (13) lies in a pocket (23) so that it can slide, allowing the relative movement between the support strip and the sensor strip if the support strip is lengthened (represented by a dot-dash line). The entire sensor unit is thus advantageously more comfortable to wear, as the elastic support strip (12), for example, can freely follow the back movements of the test person.
US08435189B2 Compound curette with layered anti-pathogen protection and liquid delivery system
A compound curette for removing tissue samples and delivering liquid and anti-pathogen to the treated area includes a hollow handle that fits a reservoir with a medicated or cosmeceutical solution. A solution is delivered from the reservoir through a channel to a scraping end of the curette by a button activated mechanism. The scraping end of the curette is made of a metal or hard plastic and is covered in anti-pathogen material. The liquid delivery allows placing a medicine or sterilizing solution directly at the locust of the infection. Pathogen inhibition coating provides for a good safeguard to stop or slow bacteria or fungus proliferation. The method of scraping debris and medication delivery is particularly useful for the treatment of onychomycosis, commonly referred to as a fungus infection of the toenail. Main portions of the curette could be detachable, allowing for the easy reservoir replacement and for the use of multiple scraping utensils. Similarly, the device could be manufactured for a single use when all parts are molded together.
US08435183B2 Balance body ultrasound system
The present invention relates to a hand held ultrasound system having a balance body, a transducer assembly connected to said balance body via a communication means and a plurality of control elements arranged in an ergonomic fashion on said balance body, such that a user may hold said system and operate at least one of said control elements with the same hand. In particular a medical ultrasound system comprising a balance body incorporating system electronics, a power supply and a user interface wherein the user interface comprises a D-controller and a touch screen and a transducer assembly attached to the balanced body by a cable.
US08435181B2 System and method to identify and measure organ wall boundaries
Systems and methods are described for acquiring, processing, and presenting boundaries of a cavity-tissue interface within a region-of-interest in an ultrasound image based upon the strength of signals of ultrasound echoes returning from structures within the region-of-interest. The segmentation of boundaries of cavity shapes occupying the region-of-interest utilizes cost function analysis of pixel sets occupying the cavity-tissue interface. The segmented shapes are further image processed to determine areas and volumes of the organ or structure containing the cavity within the region-of-interest.
US08435179B2 Systems and methods for replacing signal artifacts in a glucose sensor data stream
Systems and methods for minimizing or eliminating transient non-glucose related signal noise due to non-glucose rate limiting phenomenon such as ischemia, pH changes, temperatures changes, and the like. The system monitors a data stream from a glucose sensor and detects signal artifacts that have higher amplitude than electronic or diffusion-related system noise. The system replaces some or the entire data stream continually or intermittently including signal estimation methods that particularly address transient signal artifacts. The system is also capable of detecting the severity of the signal artifacts and selectively applying one or more signal estimation algorithm factors responsive to the severity of the signal artifacts, which includes selectively applying distinct sets of parameters to a signal estimation algorithm or selectively applying distinct signal estimation algorithms.
US08435174B2 Methods and devices for accessing a body cavity
Methods and devices are provided for accessing a surgical site. In one embodiment, an access device is provided having a housing and a cannula extending distally therefrom. The cannula and the housing can define a working channel extending longitudinally therethrough. The cannula can be movable between an insertion configuration and a deployed configuration. The access device can also include an obturator insertable through the working channel. In one embodiment, the obturator can be configured to selectively mate with the cannula such that rotation of the obturator is effective to cause corresponding rotation of the cannula. In another embodiment, the obturator can be configured to move the cannula from the insertion configuration to the deployed configuration when the obturator is fully disposed within the cannula.
US08435167B2 Method and apparatus for environmental setting and information for environmental setting
A space is set substantially in a tropical rain forest type environment to activate a human's essential brain region and realize an environment suitable for the human's brain by arranging a device for setting the tropical rain forest type environment based on characteristics of activating human's essential brain region responsive to tropical rain forest type environment information, in a space such as an urban space, a housing space or other living space. The tropical rain forest type environmental information has higher density and higher complexity than those of urban space type environmental information, and includes at least one of auditory information, visual information, and super perceptual information of aerial vibration. The tropical rain forest type environmental information is comfortable for the human with no excessive stress, and is environmental information for effecting prevention and treatment of diseases due to stress by realizing the environment comfortable for the human's brain.
US08435166B2 Method and apparatus for magnetic induction therapy
An energy emitting apparatus for providing a medical therapy includes one or more energy generators, a logic controller electrically connected to the one or more energy generators, and one or more sensors for detecting electric conduction in a target nerve that are connected to the logic controller. The one or more energy generators produce energy focused on the target nerve upon receiving a signal from the logic controller, and the energy is varied by the logic controller according to an input provided by the one or more sensors. In one embodiment, the energy emitting apparatus is an apparatus for magnetic induction therapy that includes one or more conductive coils disposed in an ergonomic housing that produce a magnetic field focused on the target nerve upon receiving an electric current from the logic controller based on an input provided by the one or more sensors.
US08435163B2 Exercise apparatus with a pull cord looped about a central pulley and first and second free pulleys
An exercise apparatus includes a frame, first and second free pulleys, first and second handle portions, first and second frame pulleys attached to the frame, a central pulley, a pull cord, and a resistance member. The first free pulley includes a first pulley wheel and a first hub with the first pulley wheel configured to rotate in relation to the first hub. The second free pulley includes a second pulley wheel and a second hub with the second pulley wheel configured to rotate in relation to the second hub. The first and second handle portions are in mechanical communication with the first and second hubs with the pulley wheels configured to rotate relative to the handle portions. The pull cord is looped about the pulleys with the resistance member configured to resist movement of the pull cord.
US08435162B1 Weight assist limb energizer and exercise device
A device for encouraging and exercising limb movement of patients who have been affected by a stroke, brain injury, or other orthopedic conditions is provided. The device is preferably designed to encourage the slightest movement present in the limbs so that the limbs are initially encouraged and practiced. Preferably, the device is designed to displace the weight of the limb (upper extremity or lower extremity) allowing the patient the opportunity to practice using the slightest amount of available active range of motion (ROM). In one implementation, the device includes a teeter-totter balancing beam, a shaft and a base. The balancing beam is pivotably connected to the shaft via joint member and is designed to pivot laterally about the joint member.
US08435157B2 Stroboscope device and imaging device provided with the same
A stroboscope device can rotate a light emitting part about at least two axes by a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a drive gear that rotates by a drive force transmitted from a drive source, a sun gear engaged with the drive gear, a planet gear engaged with the sun gear, a support member that rotatably supports the sun gear and the planet gear and is oscillatable around a rotation axis of the sun gear, at least two drive systems for rotating the light emitting part about at least two axes, and a positioner for restricting oscillation of the support member in a releasable manner in a state that the planet gear is engaged with one of transmission gears. The drive systems are disposed such that their transmission gears engage with the planet gear at positions different from one another with oscillation of the support member.
US08435155B2 Operating mechanism for a bicycle multiple gear hub
An operating mechanism by which the linear movement of a gearshift cable is converted into a rotational movement of an operating sleeve and transmitted to the interior of a bicycle multispeed gear hub.
US08435149B2 Reduction gear device
A reduction gear device includes a first reduction mechanism and a second reduction mechanism. The second reduction mechanism includes a crankshaft, an external gear and an internal gear. One of the internal gear and the external gear is fixed to a base part side member of a robot arm of an industrial robot, and the other of the internal gear and the external gear is fixed to an anterior end side member of the robot arm of the industrial robot. An inner diameter D of the internal gear is 140 mm≦D≦200 mm, torque T transmitted to the anterior end side member is 650 Nm≦T≦1960 Nm, and the number of teeth N of the internal gear is less than 40 times the difference in the number of teeth between the internal gear and the external gear.
US08435144B2 Pivoting cutting elements for projectiles
A blade system for a projectile includes a body having a front portion and a rear portion and an axis extending axially from the front portion to the rear portion. At least one blade is pivotably secured to the body. The blade includes an outer cutting edge and an inner cutting edge. The blade also includes a lever proximate a rear portion of the blade. An application of a force to the lever, for example as the lever contacts the skin, hide, or bone of an animal, pivots the blade from a closed position toward an open position. The lever has an unsharpened leading edge to prevent cutting of the target animal tissue to help ensure pivoting of the blade.
US08435135B2 Golf club head or other ball striking device having removable or interchangeable body member
A ball striking device, such as a golf club, includes a head with a face having a ball striking surface configured for striking a ball, a main body member connected to the face and having an engagement surface located in the rear side, a removable body member removably connected to the main body member, and a connecting element removably connecting the removable body member to the main body member. The connecting element includes a moveable engaging member that is moveable between a locked position, where the engaging member engages the engagement surface to retain the removable body member to the main body member, and an unlocked position, where the engaging member does not engage the engagement surface and the removable body member is removable from the main body member.
US08435134B2 Golf club head
A golf club head (20) having optimized ball speed robustness is disclosed. The golf club head (20) preferably has one or more channels (100, 110, 120) disposed proximate to a striking face (40), and in some embodiments the one or more channels (100, 110, 120) substantially encircle the striking face (40).
US08435131B1 Portable putting practice system
A portable putting practice system for users of all ages and skill levels, whereby the system enables a user to increase putting accuracy, improve range of motion for a putting swing, and develop consistent putting backswings of varying extensions corresponding to desired target distances.
US08435124B2 Variable length steering spindle
A variable length steering spindle for a steering mechanism of a motor vehicle includes an outer sleeve, an inner member, a slide sleeve having recesses, and rolling bodies. The recesses and the rolling bodies are configured such that the rolling bodies project from the slide sleeve in a no-load state of the slide sleeve, and in an assembled state of the steering spindle the rolling bodies are prestressed against a raceway face and are displaced in a direction away from the raceway face against a reset force. The slide sleeve contacts the other of the outer sleeve and the inner member when a limit value of torque is exceeded. The rolling bodies are non-displaceable in the longitudinal direction with respect to the slide sleeve or are finitely displaceable between stops formed at distal ends of the recesses.
US08435123B2 Vibration absorber
A system for absorbing vibration created by operation of an engine of the present invention includes a first plate driven by an engine shaft and a torque transmitting device for transferring torque from the engine shaft to a transmission input shaft. The system includes a first vibration absorber and a second vibration absorber. The first vibration absorber includes at least one selectively moveable mass. The second vibration absorber includes at least one biasing member and generally opposing ends. The first vibration absorber is configured to absorb vibrations created at a first harmonic of the engine and the second vibration absorber is configured to absorb vibrations created at multiple harmonics of the engine.
US08435122B2 Gaming device for wagering on multiple game outcomes
Systems and methods for wagering on game outcomes allow a player to wager on game outcomes resulting from linked gaming devices linked to a primary gaming device being played by the player. A primary game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on a primary game and a linked game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on linked games. Both the primary and linked gaming devices may be the same type of gaming device, or they may be two different types of gaming devices, such as gaming devices for playing slot games, card games, keno, and the like. Further, either or both of the primary and linked games may allow bonus game outcomes resulting in a bonus game having bonus game awards.
US08435117B2 Game device, control method for game device, program and information memory medium
An image that is changed according to a change of a numerical value is displayed. A first numerical value changing section changes the numerical value between a first predetermined value and a second predetermined value. A first input value is acquired based on the numerical value obtained at a time corresponding to a time of a first operation. A second numerical value changing section changes, after the first operation, the numerical value between the numerical value obtained at the time corresponding to the time of the first operation and the second predetermined value. A second input value is acquired based on the numerical value obtained at the time corresponding to the time of the first operation and the numerical value obtained at a time corresponding to a time of a second operation. A game is controlled based on the first input value and the second input value.
US08435115B2 Method and apparatus for displaying gaming content
A method comprises receiving an indication of a triggering event at a gaming device, determining a gaming content associated with the gaming device, identifying a public display on which is displayed non-gaming media content, and outputting the gaming content on the public display wherein the gaming content supersedes at least a portion of the non-gaming media content.
US08435110B2 Player interactive wagering using hole symbols and shifting gaming symbols
A game is provided including a symbol shifting graphic display at one or more gaming machines. Games, methods, systems, and program products are taught using gaming symbols and hole symbols, into which gaming symbols may be shifted during the course of the game. Shifted symbols may reveal another hole symbol, or a bonus symbol or multiplier symbol. The player is allowed to select a symbol to shift in order to try and solve the matrix by producing a winning combination of gaming symbols.
US08435104B2 Articulated combine with unloading and rear bogey steering architecture
An articulated harvester is composed of a forward bogey having an operator's cab, an engine, a grain harvesting assembly, a grain transfer assembly, but being devoid of an on-board grain bin. A rearward bogey is attached by a joint to the forward bogey and has a powered wheel assembly, an on-board grain bin for receiving grain from the forward bogey grain transfer assembly, and a grain off-loading assembly. The grain separating and cleaning assembly including a grain cleaning fan are located in front of the forward bogey axle and offset from the forward bogey centerline. The forward bogey transmission may be located ahead of or behind the forward bogey axle and offset opposite of the grain fan.
US08435097B2 Low height quarter sheet sander
A reduced height quarter sheet sander has a housing having first and second halves mated together. An upper portion of the housing provides a handle. A pair of brush boxes is disposed in the housing on opposite sides of a commutator of an electric motor disposed in the housing. In an aspect, a switch disposed in the handle of the housing and a terminal block (at which a cordset that enters the housing terminates) disposed in the handle of the housing have generally the same horizontal elevation as the brush boxes (when the sander is lying upright). In an aspect, the stator is disposed in the housing so that the field coils extend across the housing from one half to the other half and outside the lower screw bosses.
US08435092B1 Personal water sport riding board
A personal water sport riding board with a modified bottom surface to enhance its water riding characteristics is herein disclosed is provided with a pair of appendages designed to facilitate the catching of water. In such a manner, as water passes on the bottom surface, it is caught by the appendages thus propelling the riding board forward in a faster manner. The appendages are manufactured of rigid foam that is covered with a fabric material in much the same manner as a conventional riding board.
US08435090B1 Marine drives and methods of operating marine drives having a lubricant exclusion cover
A marine drive comprises a gear case housing a vertical driveshaft that rotates a generally horizontal propulsor shaft in a forward direction upon operational engagement with a forwardly rotatable gear and a rearward direction upon operational engagement with a rearwardly rotatable gear. A lubricant exclusion cover is disposed between the forwardly and rearwardly rotatable gears so as to limit churning of lubricant by at least one of the forwardly and rearwardly rotatable gears.
US08435087B2 Method and apparatus for controlling a waterjet-driven marine vessel
A system for controlling a marine vessel having first and second steering nozzles and corresponding first and second reversing buckets, comprises a processor configured to receive a first vessel control signal including at least a component corresponding to a translational thrust command in a port direction, and that is configured to provide a set of actuator control signals coupled to and control the first and second reversing buckets. The processor is configured to provide the set of actuator control signals so as to maintain the first reversing bucket substantially in a first discrete position and the second reversing bucket substantially in a second discrete position as long as the first vessel control signal includes a component corresponding to a translational thrust command in the port direction.
US08435085B2 Electrical connector
The present invention pertains to a connector, having a rear side and a mating side and including a housing having at least one contact receiving space and at least one non-contact receiving space, the spaces extending in a direction from the mating side towards the rear side. The non-contact receiving space is adapted for receiving a portion of a mating connector housing and has a substantially rounded cross sectional shape substantially perpendicular to the direction from the mating side towards the rear side.
US08435083B2 Plug-in connector
The invention relates to a plug-in connector (1), comprising a housing, a printed circuit board (2) and RF contacts (K1-K8), the RF contacts (K1-K8) being electrically connected to the printed circuit board (2), the RF contacts (K1-K8) being formed by an integral, flexible printed circuit board (4), from which the individual contacts (K1-K8) are cut free, the flexible printed circuit board (4) being prestressed by a spring-elastic element (6).
US08435082B2 Electrical connectors and printed circuits having broadside-coupling regions
An electrical connector that includes a circuit board having a board substrate that has opposite board surfaces and a thickness measured along an orientation axis that extends between the opposite board surfaces. The circuit board has associated pairs of input and output terminals and signal traces that electrically connect the associated pairs of input and output terminals. The input and output terminals being configured to communicatively coupled to mating and cable conductors, respectively. Each associated pair of input and output terminals is electrically connected through a corresponding signal trace that has a conductive path extending along the board substrate between the corresponding input and output terminals. At least two signal traces form a broadside-coupling region in which the conductive paths of the at least two signal traces are stacked along the orientation axis and spaced apart through the thickness and extend parallel to each other for a crosstalk-reducing distance.
US08435081B2 Thin plug assembly and methods for making the same
Thin plug assemblies and methods for constructing the same are disclosed. The plug assembly can include a plug portion, a cable portion, and an interfacing portion between the plug portion and the cable portion. The plug portion can include several conductive regions each connected to a conductor of the cable portion to form conductor/plug member coupling(s), for example via a plug extension member associated with each conductive region. The plug assembly is constructed such that a diameter of the plug portion, interface portion, and at least part of the cable portion have substantially the same diameter. Ring structures enhance one or more of the conductor/plug member couplings by providing a press or interference fit directly to the coupling(s). Ring structures are constructed to slide axially over at least one conductor and at least one plug member.
US08435079B1 Electrode for recording and stimulation
Improved electrode assemblies for recording and stimulation. Cortical and depth electrode structures are provided as well as inline interconnection systems. Methods of manufacture are further taught to provide enhanced surfaces for cortical electrodes. The inline interconnection systems include connector assembly embodiments for electrode leads which have structure providing ease of EEG recording as well as stimulation.
US08435077B2 Card edge connector and connector assembly thereof
A card edge connector comprises an insulation housing and a plurality of terminals. The insulation housing includes a receiving slot for receiving a card module, a plurality of partitions arrayed on opposite sides of the receiving slot and defining a plurality of cavities, each partition including a bottom surface configured to be disposed on a printed circuit board. Each terminal comprises a body portion having a fixing portion configured to secure the terminal in the respective cavity and an inversely bent section, a solder tail extending from the fixing portion, and a contact portion extending from the inversely bent section and having a distal end at least partially protruding beyond the bottom surface.
US08435076B2 Low profile electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing and a terminal retained in the insulative housing. The insulative housing defines a mating surface and a mounting surface opposite to the mating surface, a pair of first side faces connecting with the mating face and the mounting face. A receiving room penetrates through the pair of first side faces and a through hole runs through the mating face and communicates with the receiving room. The terminal includes a mating board of frame shape received in the receiving room and soldering legs bending from the mating board to expose to the mounting face. The mating board has an open therein. Two spiral mating arms extend oppositely from opposite inside edges of the opening of the mating board with free ends thereof aligned with the through hole.
US08435073B2 Connector assembly for corrugated coaxial cable
A connector comprising a connector body comprising a first end, a second end, and an inner bore defined between the first and second ends of the body, a compression member comprising a first end, a second end, and an inner bore defined between the first and second ends of the cap, the first end of the compression member being structured to engage the second end of the connector body, a clamp comprising a first end, a second end, an inner bore defined between the first and second ends of the clamp, wherein the clamp facilitates threadable insertion of a coaxial cable, and a compression surface disposed within the connector body, wherein axial advancement of the compression member facilitates the clamp being axially advanced into proximity with the compression surface such that the clamp and the compression surface transmit force between one another is provided. An associated method is also provided.
US08435070B2 Method and apparatus for disconnecting electrical service
According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus for disconnecting electrical service includes a housing to be coupled to an electric meter socket, a first stationary connector protruding from a first side of the housing, the first stationary connector configured to connect to a first line of electricity and a second stationary connector protruding from the first side of the housing, the second stationary connector configured to connect to a second line of electricity. The apparatus also includes a first moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, a second moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, and a third moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing.
US08435063B2 Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly for forming AC power connections between a DC-to-AC inverter on a solar panel and AC power cable extending to an AC power grid includes a three-contact socket on the inverter and a three-contact electrical connector on the cable. The connector may be joined to the socket in either of two positions.
US08435062B2 Latch assembly for a connector
Latch assembly for latching two mating connectors. The latch assembly includes a main body and a resilient latch finger extending from the main body. The latch finger includes a locking section, such as a locking cam. A release member, e.g., a slider, is moveable between a locking position and a release position. The release member a pressure surface profiled to flex the latch finger away when the release member is moved to the release position. The pressure surface is positioned between the locking section and the connected end of the latch finger, when the release member is in the locking position. The main body can, e.g., include a surface with a sunk section, the latch finger forming an extension of the sunk section, while the release member is a slider slideable in the sunk section.
US08435057B1 Dual-cam ejector assembly
A dual-cam ejector assembly for a card, such as a line card, is provided. The ejector assembly comprises an elongated ejector arm having its distal end coupled to the line card so as to provide a first axis of rotation for the ejector arm. The ejector assembly further comprises an ejector cam coupled to the line card so as to provide a second axis of rotation for the ejector cam. The ejector assembly also comprises a cam pin extending from the ejector cam that couples the ejector cam to the ejector arm such that pivoting of the ejector arm around the first axis of rotation causes the ejector cam to pivot around the second axis of rotation.
US08435056B2 Apparatus for coupling power generated by a photovoltaic module to an output
Apparatus for coupling power generated by a photovoltaic (PV) module to an output. The apparatus comprises a universal connector assembly, comprising a connector housing, adapted for coupling to the PV module, comprising a DC connection assembly for coupling power from the PV module to a power module via a first plurality of connectors; and a base for supporting the power module spaced apart from the PV module in a manner that exposes at least a portion of the power module facing the PV module to the air and prevents air from being trapped between the power module and the PV module.
US08435055B1 Tamper resistant electrical wiring device system
A platform and slider assembly for use in a tamper resistant receptacle is provided. The tamper resistant receptacle includes a cover having first and second non-grounding apertures formed therein. In use, when a set of blades of a plug is inserted simultaneously through the first and second apertures formed in the cover, the blades make contact with the at least one angled surface on the slider urging the at least one angled surface of the slider to move with respect to the angled surface of the platform such that the slider is urged from the first position to the second position. The first and second apertures formed in the platform define an axis extending from the first aperture to the second aperture; and the slider moves relative to the platform in a direction orthogonal to the axis extending from the first aperture to the second aperture.
US08435053B1 Cable connector with an oblique ground adapter
A cable connector with an oblique ground adapter includes a main body, a cable adapter and a ground adapter. The main body is formed with a vertical main plate and a side plate. The main plate has one side extended integrally with the side plate. The cable adapter secured on the main plate has an interior bored with a cable insert hole having a shaft line formed along a shaft center, longitudinally defined to have a perpendicular line to be intersected with the first shaft line. The ground adapter obliquely mounted on the side plate has an interior disposed with a threaded hole, having second shaft line formed along the shaft center of the threaded hole and slanting toward the perpendicular line to be intersected and formed with an acute angle, diminishing the breadth and volume of the side plate for lowering manufacturing cost of cable connectors.
US08435052B2 Connector with a housing pivotally supporting floating terminals
The invention is directed to a connector including an insulating housing with a plurality of channels accommodating at least one right-angle electro-conductive terminal leading from a mating side of the connector to a surface mount side of the connector. At least a part of channels is provided with a support surface which is adapted to pivotably support the terminal, the support surface being located at a distance above a bottom surface of these channel.
US08435048B2 Connector
A connector includes a connector assembly is supported by a moveable member that can move relative to a printed wired board in two directions and is urged to its center position by two oppositely disposed springs that each urge a contact member into a respective recess.
US08435047B2 Modular connectors with easy-connect capability
Modular connectors are provided that have a modular receptacle connector assembly matable with a modular plug connector assembly for connecting AC or DC power connectors and electrical signals including board-to-board and wire-to-board connection. Provided is a “pass through” modular component to facilitate connection and disconnection of only the power supply for service without disconnecting the entire system. The wire connector also may load to the main housing thus obviating the need for a panel mount. Also provided is a one-unit modular connector system with either a coplanar or a right-angle design. Furthermore, multiple AC and/or DC power supplies can be provided that utilize minimum board space.
US08435044B2 Elastic contact device for electronic components with buckling columns
An embodiment of an elastic contact device for electrically contacting electronic components is proposed. The contact device includes at least one basic module with a longitudinal axis, each one including an elastic core for defining an elasticity of the basic module (undergoing an axial elastic deformation in response to an axial compression), a first contact terminal element and a second contact terminal element coupled with the elastic core in axially opposed positions, and at least one elongated contact element extending axially between the first and second terminal elements, wherein each elongated element is configured to have a buckling axial critical load higher than zero for self-sustaining in absence of external forces during a production of the basic module and lower than a threshold compression (ranging approximately between 0.1% and 50%) for buckling thereby not contributing to the elasticity of the basic module during operation thereof.
US08435043B2 Power connector assembly
A power connector assembly includes a first connector (100) having a first insulating housing (110) forming a front face (114) and a rear face (115). A number of passageways (101) are defined in the first insulating housing and extending through the front face and the rear face. A number of first contacts (120) are retained in the passageways, respectively. A second connector (200) includes a second insulating housing (210) having a front surface (214) and a rear surface (215). A number of passageways (201) are defined in the second insulating housing and extending through the front surface and the rear surface. A number of second contacts (220) are retained in the passageways, respectively. When the first connector and the second connector are mated with each other along a mating direction, a number of airflow holes (102) are defined between the front face of the first connector and the front surface of the second connector for heat dissipation.
US08435038B2 Methods and systems for teaching a practical skill to learners at geographically separate locations
A method for teaching a practical skill to a plurality of learners at geographically separate locations includes receiving, for each learner, a video feed generated by a camera at the learner's location. The video feed depicts at least an subject on which the learner is demonstrating the practical skill. The teacher simultaneously displays the video feeds for the plurality of learners on a display screen at a location of the teacher. One or more learners are allowed to submit questions to the teacher that are not immediately conveyed to the other learners. The teacher is allowed to select one of the learners having a question for individualized instruction, and to establish a private communication channel between the teacher and the selected learner.
US08435037B1 Child testing apparatus, information system and method of use
A learning system for testing aspects of how a child learns includes a toy-like electro-mechanical chassis having upstanding pegs. The child is encouraged to place donut shaped hand pieces onto the pegs. The hand pieces test the ability of the child to discriminate between different colors, and separately between different textures and different shapes and also tests the child's abilities in perception and creativity. The electro-mechanical chassis also is able to test the child's ability to discern and copy tones and rhythms. Information of the child's performance is automatically collected and compared with normalized results of a large tested group of subjects. Remediation focuses on activities related to the learning channels where the child is least astute and periodic retesting measures the ability of the child to improve in those channels to enable improvement of remediation approaches.
US08435031B2 Orthodontic clasp
A new and useful orthodontic clasp that is more resistant to breakage, and when in use is unlikely to separate from its associated orthodontic appliance should breakage occur, comprising two metal wires crossed at an angle and held together with a weld/solder joint, said weld/solder joint having four wire segments extending from said two metal wires crossed at the weld/solder joint, two of said wire segments adjacent and longer in length and two of said wire segments adjacent and shorter in length, said four wire segments each having a clasp wire bend.
US08435029B2 Touchless fill large flame torch
An apparatus having a fuel container, a flame bowl, and a wick holder disposed proximate the flame bowl is disclosed. An open fuel filling port disposed in the flame bowl prevents entry of ignition sources into the fuel container but allows for the flow of liquid thereinto, whereby a user of the torch may refuel the torch without need to touch the torch.
US08435026B2 Liquid or hydraulic blow molding
An apparatus and method for simultaneously forming and filling a plastic container is provided. A mold cavity defines an internal surface and is adapted to accept a preform. A pressure source includes an inlet and a piston-like device. The piston-like device is moveable in a first direction wherein liquid is drawn into the pressure source through the inlet and in a second direction wherein the liquid is urged toward the preform. A blow nozzle may be adapted to receive the liquid from the pressure source and transfer the liquid at high pressure into the preform thereby urging the preform to expand toward the internal surface of the mold cavity and create a resultant container. The liquid remains within the container as an end product.
US08435025B2 Honeycomb extrusion die apparatus
Honeycomb extrusion die apparatus include a die body including a first set of die pins circumscribed by a second set of die pins. At least a portion of the end face of die pins of the second set of die pins are positioned along a peripheral surface extending at an oblique angle with respect to the extrusion direction. A lateral width of the open end of a plurality of discharge slots defined by the second set of die pins is larger than a lateral width of the open end of a plurality of discharge slots defined by the first set of die pins. Methods of making a honeycomb extrusion die apparatus are also provided.
US08435022B2 Particle spreader
The invention relates to a dispersion installation for dispersing dispersible material on a dispersing material conveyor belt so as to form groups of material for producing wood-material boards. Said system comprises at least one dispersion material bunker for the dispersible material dispersed on the dispersing material conveyor belt, having at least one top side filling opening. A chute is connected to the filling opening via which the dispersible material can enter into the dispersion material bunker. The invention is characterized in that at least one brake cylinder device is arranged inside the chute, said brake cylinder comprising at least two rotationally driven brake cylinders.
US08435016B2 Vertical shaft pumping system with lubricant impeller arrangement
A vertical shaft pumping system includes a hollow shaft with an inner bore, an inlet end and an outlet end, the outlet end with at least one liquid distribution hole. It further includes an impeller positioned at the lower inlet end of the shaft, with a cylindrical base portion with a lower end, a central hole for drawing fluid into the shaft, and a plurality of teeth extending upwards from the cylindrical base portion and extending radially from the central hole to the outer cylindrical circumference for increasing tractive force of liquid in the shaft when the impeller and shaft are rotating; and a motor for rotating the shaft with the impeller to centrifugally pump a liquid vertically in the shaft from the lower inlet end to the upper outlet end.
US08435012B2 Wheel-mounted air compressor and methods of use
The disclosure is generally directed to a wheel-mounted, centrifugally activated, air compressor that will automatically inflate an inflatable vehicle tire back to the proper pressure level when small under-inflation situations occur (e.g., the occurrence of small-to-medium air leaks in a tire). Moreover, the device can be easily attach or fitted into the design of a steel or aluminum wheel, or fitted into a hubcap without modifying the standard design of the wheel-hub assembly. The wheel-mounted device includes a mounting base, cylinder assemblies, and spring-biased centrifugal arms, and is designed to convert changes in the centrifugal force felt by the centrifugal arms as wheel rotation accelerates or decelerates/stops into varying force exerted on positive-displacement pistons. This in turn actuates positive-displacement pumping action at the cylinder assemblies, each of which can provide a short burst of pressurized air into the charging line connected into the associated tire with each compressive stroke.
US08435010B2 Control of a fluid pump assembly
A pump control assembly includes a fluid pump assembly having a fluid pump and a load sensing valve. The fluid pump includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The fluid pump includes a variable displacement mechanism. The load sensing valve is adapted to adjust the position of the variable displacement mechanism. The load sensing valve includes a first end and an oppositely disposed second end. An actuator is in fluid communication with the fluid pump assembly. A position sensor monitors the position of the actuator. A ramping valve provides selective fluid communication between the fluid outlet of the fluid pump and the first end of the load sensing valve. An electronic control unit is in electrical communication with the position sensor and the ramping valve. The electronic control unit transmits an output current to the ramping valve in response to the position of the actuator.
US08435006B2 Fan
A fan is disclosed herein. The fan includes a hub portion operable to rotate about an axis. The hub portion extends along the axis between forward and aft ends. The fan also includes at least one platform operably fixed with the hub portion. The at least one platform at least partially encircles the axis. The fan also includes at least one airfoil extending from the at least one platform radially outward relative to the axis between a base and a tip. The at least one platform terminates at forward and aft circumferential edges spaced from one another along the axis. At least one of the forward and aft circumferential edges extends about the axis and along the axis.
US08435000B2 Variable vane actuation system
A variable vane actuation system is disclosed herein. The variable vane actuation system includes a ring member disposed for pivoting movement about a centerline axis. The ring member is engaged with a plurality of vanes in a turbine engine such that the plurality of vanes pivot in response to the pivoting movement of the ring member. The variable vane actuation system also includes a ring moving device engaged with the ring member at first and second positions spaced from one another about the centerline axis. The ring moving device is operable to apply first and second forces, respectively, at the first and second positions to pivot the ring member.
US08434999B2 Bimetallic spline seal
A spline seal for a hot gas path component is provided. The spline seal may include a first metal layer and a second metal layer. The first metal layer may have a first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. The second metal layer may be disposed adjacent the first metal layer and have a second volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. The second volumetric thermal expansion coefficient may be higher than the first volumetric thermal expansion coefficient. When the spline seal is exposed to a heat source, the first and second metal layers may deform to provide a seal between the hot gas path component and an adjacent hot gas path component.
US08434997B2 Gas turbine engine case for clearance control
A gas turbine engine includes an active clearance control (ACC) system within the engine casing. The case includes a wall structure with a cast-in cooling configuration through Refractory Metal Core technology which is tailored to address traditional hot spots and improve discrete control of case growth.
US08434995B2 Duct wall for a fan of a gas turbine engine
A gas turbine engine fan casing duct wall comprises an intake section and a containment casing, provided respectively with flanges. An acoustic flutter damper is secured between the flanges. The acoustic flutter damper has a skin accommodating an internal structure that dampens fan blade flutter. The skin is secured to the flanges at separate locations. In normal operation of the engine, the internal structure is sufficiently robust to support loads transmitted through the acoustic flutter damper between the intake section and the containment casing. If a blade or blade fragment detaches, the resulting deflection wave in the containment case ruptures the internal structure, and the load path between the intake section and the containment casing passes along the skin, which consequently maintains the connection between the intake duct and the containment casing, while permitting substantial radial deflection of the containment casing relative to the intake section.
US08434992B2 Arm mechanism, and vacuum robot provided with the same
A first decelerator is placed in an arm base such that a lower end of a decelerator shaft is bared in the arm base. A first arm has a hermetic space which becomes equal in pressure to a hermetic space of the arm base when an upper end of the hollow decelerator shaft is inserted thereinto, and is secured to a first decelerator output shaft. A second decelerator is placed on a distal end of the first arm, and has an input shaft connected to the decelerator shaft. A second arm is secured to an output shaft of the second decelerator, and has no hermetic space formed therein. A link mechanism follows the first and second arms.
US08434988B2 Rotary seamer
A rotary seamer (1) is provided with a carousel (2) and with at least one seaming station (3) associated with the carousel (2) and comprising a rod-like element (6) rotating around its own longitudinal axis, a seaming tool (4) rotatably connected to a lever (5) integral with the rod-like element (6) and means for rotating the rod-like element (6) around its own longitudinal axis, in such a way as to displace the seaming tool (4) from an operative position, in which it interacts with an object seaming it, to a deactivated position, of non interference with the object; said means comprising an electric motor (7) associated with the carousel and kinetically to the rod-like element (6) and control means operatively active on the electric motor (7) to rotate the rod-like element (6) according to a predefined logic. In known seamers the actuation of the seaming tool is achieved by means of a cam, this entailing limitations and drawbacks in the adaptation of the seamer to the treatment of different objects.
US08434986B2 Washer
A washer includes a wedge-shaped main body, a wedge-shaped adjusting portion moveably positioned on the main body and a flexible connecting portion interconnecting the main body and the adjusting portion. The main body defines a through hole through which the screw passes. The main body includes a bottom surface and a positioning surface angled relative to the bottom surface. The adjusting portion includes a flat contact surface and a latching surface contacting the positioning surface of the main body. The latching surface is angled relative to the contact surface. A wedge angle of the adjusting portion equals that of the main body, thus the bottom surface of the main body is substantially parallel with the contact surface of the adjusting portion.
US08434984B2 Self-interlocking sleeve-core shear pin fastener
A novel one piece integrated fastener is provided which includes a deformable sleeve for receiving a pin where the pin has an elongated pin shank, terminating at a first pin end in a pin head and terminating at a second pin end in an externally threaded portion, and a transitional section integrally connected between the first pin end and the second pin end. The deformable sleeve may include a hollow tubular shank terminating at a first sleeve end in a sleeve head having an opening for receiving the pin and terminating at a second sleeve end having an internal sleeve head surface for engagement with the external pin head side surface when in an assembled position. The sleeve includes a first sleeve section, a second sleeve section and a third sleeve section having an internal surface for engaging the externally threaded portion of the pin upon installation.
US08434980B2 Expansible anchor assembly and its fastening adaptor
An expansible anchor assembly includes an expansion sleeve and an anchor bolt plugging and expanding the expansion sleeve. The expansion sleeve includes a first end, a second end, an expansible member adjacent to the second end that is divided into expansible segments by slits, and a bore defined in the expansion sleeve for communicating the first end with the second end. A groove is annularly formed on the expansion sleeve, and a distance from the groove to the second end equals to ¼˜⅖ times a length of the expansion sleeve for preventing an over length of the slits, which is beneficial to the manufacture. During expansion, the expansible segments are completely expanded when the expansible member is subjected to a thrust from the anchor bolt to promote the anchoring force and avoid damaging a working wall.
US08434979B1 Portable gear ratchet for tie-downs
An apparatus to assist tightening of cargo straps used on flat-bed vehicles comprises a gearbox having a worm gear and matching wheel gear to tighten the strap. The output of the gearbox is coupled to a tie-down strap. The apparatus enables a user to quickly and properly tighten a tie-down strap regardless of the user's physical size and strength. The apparatus can be provided at each tie-down strap or be moved from strap location to strap location as desired.
US08434977B2 Auto-rack railroad car vehicle wheel chock
A vehicle wheel chock for a vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car which secures a vehicle in the auto-rack railroad car. The vehicle wheel chock is configured to be positioned on a grating adjacent to a tire of the vehicle.
US08434976B2 Small hole saw mandrel assembly
A holesaw mandrel assembly has a mandrel with a first shanking end, a body, and a second extending end that includes a threaded spud to receive a holesaw. A first member is secured on the second end. The first member is axially slidable on the second end. The first member also includes a friction surface to contact the holesaw. The friction surface moves between a first engaging position and a second disengaging position. A mechanism on the mandrel moves the friction surface between its engaged and disengaged positions. The mechanism includes a biased collar and a bearing race. A mating connection enables rotation of the collar which, in turn, enables the friction surface to move between its engaged and disengaged positions.
US08434975B2 Double-sided cutting insert and milling cutter mounting the same
A double-sided milling cutting insert has usable upper and lower faces. The upper face has a polygonal shape with curved edges. The lower face has a rotationally symmetrical relation to the upper face. Flank faces connect edges of the upper face to corresponding edges of the lower face. Upper cutting edges are formed on one of the edges of the upper face. The upper chip-forming portions have rake faces inclined downwardly from the upper cutting edges inwardly of the cutting insert and a plurality of protrusions arranged along inner boundaries of the rake faces for deflecting chips. When the cutting insert is mounted on the cutting tool, a width of the rake face of the upper chip-forming portion adjacent to an edge portion forming a main cutting edge gradually increases in a direction going away from a rotational axis of the cutting tool.
US08434970B2 Breakable rock bolt
A rock bolt is disclosed, which includes first and second ends, a shaft extending between the ends, the shaft incorporating a hollow metal rod including at least one breaking zone and wherein the shaft is arranged to preferentially break in the breaking zone when impact loading is applied to the shaft.
US08434969B2 Internal pipe clamp
A clamp system includes a frame, a plurality of clamp members, an actuator collar, and an actuator system. The frame includes an attachment member and a stop ring defining a stop cam surface. The clamp members each define first and second cam surfaces. The actuator collar defines an actuator cam surface. The actuator system displaces the actuator collar. The frame supports the actuator collar and the plurality of clamp members such that the first cam surfaces engage the actuator cam surface and the second cam surfaces engage the stop cam surface. Operation of the actuator system displaces the actuator collar towards the stop ring. As the actuator collar moves towards the stop ring, the actuator cam surface acts on the first cam surfaces and the stop cam surface acts on the second cam surfaces such that the clamp members place the clamp system in an engaged configuration.
US08434967B2 Water shielding barrier
A protective module for use as a water shielding part of a barrier, said barrier being adapted to be positioned between a body of water and an area of land to be protected. The protective module has a main plane and a first, second, third and fourth side, which sides define a main surface of the protective module, in the main plane of the protective module, the first and second sides being arranged opposite each other. A method of manufacturing a protective module according to the invention, concerning a barrier made up of interconnected protective modules and a barrier system including two or more protective modules, the protective modules being adapted to be joined together in such a manner as to form a barrier.
US08434965B2 Impact absorption facility for road
An impact absorption facility for road makes it possible to protect a road center, a road side, a road ramp, an entering side of a tunnel or an underground road, pillars, faith silk or others and to absorb the impact of vehicle collided and to decelerate during a collision by decreasing the impacts occurring due to the impact of a vehicle by installing the impact absorption facility even in a highway ramp, and it is possible to prevent a vehicle from entering an opposite road lane or going out of a road for thereby allowing the vehicle to run on a normal road and to return to a road. A traffic accident can be effectively prevented with the help of a lighting lamp or a reflection lamp when a vehicle approaches the impact absorption facility when a driver drives at night with sleepiness.
US08434962B2 Friction welding joint of two two-dimensional components positioned on top of each other
The invention relates to a friction welding joint of a plurality of two-dimensional components positioned on top of each other, which are held together by means of a connecting body, which rests on an upper component by means of a collar. The connecting body is configured as a pipe piece, and the upper component is penetrated by the connecting body having a front annular cutting edge by means of rotation and pressure, wherein the connecting body, after cutting through the upper component with the front thereof and receiving the cut-out material of the upper component in the hollow space thereof, together with the lower component forms a friction welding zone created by means of rotation and pressure of the connecting body.
US08434959B2 Cosmetic container with mirrored element
A cosmetic container for retaining and dispensing a cosmetic material is provided. The cosmetic container includes a first portion including an applicator, a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion and configured to move between a first position in which the applicator is exposed and a second position in which the applicator is concealed and a mirrored element coupled to the first portion. The mirrored element is positionable behind the applicator when the second portion is moved to the first position to assist a user in applying the cosmetic material.
US08434957B2 Knock-type writing instrument
A knock-type writing instrument is provided, which allows an easy refill exchange with a simple operation while inhibiting deformation of slits, breakage of a shaft tube, etc., during the refill exchange.
US08434956B2 Adapter for writing instruments
An adapter for pen, pencil, or any other types of writing instruments where the adaptor is sized and dimensioned to receive a regular sized writing instrument, and the adapter is designed for safety to use such writing instrument as a refill. The design has an inner holder designed to securely hold the writing instrument. In one embodiment, the adapter is short enough to expose a proximal end of the writing instrument, so that the exposed part of the writing instrument becomes a push button. In another embodiment, the adapter has a push button, and the regular sized writing instrument is entirely contained with the adapter. Other embodiments use different retracting mechanism such as twist-and-retract mechanism, and slider mechanism.
US08434945B2 Side pressure applying mechanism for motor
A side pressure applying mechanism for a motor may include a rotation shaft of the motor rotatably supported through a support bearing, a side pressure bearing which is loosely fitted to the rotation shaft, an urging member which is abutted with the side pressure bearing to apply a side pressure to the rotation shaft, engaging parts which are formed in a frame and with which both end portions of the urging member are respectively engaged, and a restricting part for restricting movement of the urging member toward the axial direction of the rotation shaft. The restricting part is provided at a position nearer to an abutting position where the urging member is abutted with the side pressure bearing between an engaging position where the urging member is engaged with the engaging part and the abutting position of the urging member with the side pressure bearing.
US08434943B2 End termination for reclosable fastener, and method of making same
Method of making an end termination on a reclosable fastener includes providing a reclosable fastener including a first track with a first profile and a second track with a second profile. The first track has an end portion and the second track has an end portion. The first and second profiles are releasably engageable to each other. A plastic slider is slidably mounted to the fastener for movement between an open position and a closed position, and the slider has a separating finger. An end termination is formed at the end portions of the first and second tracks, and the end termination has a shape corresponding to the separating finger.
US08434941B2 Temperature measuring sensor and method of producing same
A method of producing a temperature measuring sensor including an insulating substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface including a first area and a second area, and a first contact and a second contact being formed in the first area, the above contacts having a structured measuring film located therebetween: creating a conductive connection between the first contact on the top surface of the insulating substrate and the bottom surface of the insulating substrate, and a first conductive layer as a first terminal area of the temperature measuring sensor on the bottom surface such that the first conductive layer is electrically connected to the conductive connection, as well as a second conductive layer on the second area of the top surface as a second terminal area of the temperature measuring sensor such that the second conductive layer is in contact with the second contact.
US08434937B2 Method and apparatus for detecting the substrate temperature in a laser anneal system
Embodiments of the invention provide a method and an apparatus for detecting the temperature of a substrate surface. In one embodiment, a method for measuring the temperature is provided which includes exposing the surface of the substrate to a laser beam radiating from a laser source, radiating emitted light from a portion of the surface of the substrate, through the shadow ring, and towards a thermal sensor, and determining the temperature of the portion of the surface of the substrate from the emitted light. The substrate may be disposed on a substrate support within a treatment region and a shadow ring may be disposed between the laser source and the surface of the substrate. The shadow ring may be selectively opaque to the laser beam and transparent to the emitted light.
US08434934B2 Anti-shock device for a timepiece control member
Timepiece (1) including a case (11) in which systems (3, 5, 7, 9) are mounted for operating the timepiece, controlled by control members (15, 21, 19) that project from the case, at least one of the control members (15, 19, 21) cooperating with an anti-shock device (33, 35) mounted in the case (11) and including a main component (91, 111), which is moveably mounted relative to the case (11), characterized in that the main component (91, 111) includes a permanent mechanical connection with the part (63, 41) of each system (25, 23) to which the at least one control member is attached, which enables the component to be reversibly uncoupled from the at least one control member (15, 19, 21) when a force greater than a predetermined threshold is exerted on the at least one control member and in that the mechanical connection is of the sliding type, and includes a jumper spring (95, 115) elastically mounted relative to a pin (96, 116).
US08434932B2 Fluidic mixer with controllable mixing
In one embodiment of the disclosure, a fluid mixing device comprises a flow duct, with a wall having an inner surface defining a fluid flow path for a primary flow, and at least one deployable and retractable projection. The projection is adapted to controllably generate at least one secondary flow adjacent the inner surface. In other embodiments, methods are provided of controllably mixing at least one fluid within a fluid mixing device.
US08434931B2 Stirrer and apparatus for small volume mixing
This invention is a stirrer, impeller or stirrer paddle used for mixing small volumes of liquid in a vessel having a small capacity for liquid, said impeller being characterized by an impeller blade connected to the bottom portion of a support, where the blade has an opening extending through the blade from the front to the back surface of the blade said opening extending across the rotational axis of the impeller. The invention is also an apparatus comprising that blade, a method of mixing components using the apparatus and an array of two or more of the apparatuses.
US08434929B2 Solder paste mixer
A solder paste mixer includes a housing, a vibration mechanism, a rotating mechanism, and a fixture for fixing a solder paste jar. The housing defines a receiving space, and the vibration mechanism and the rotating mechanism are retained within the receiving space. The fixture can be vibrated by the vibration mechanism and rotated by the rotating mechanism.
US08434927B2 Interchange universal kits for LED light device
An interchangeable power source light device has an AC power sealed-unit that fits into a uniform compartment of the light device housing. The AC power sealed-unit can be replaced by a DC power battery-pack, which also fits into the uniform compartment-means of the light device housing. The light device may have a built-in light source within the housing for connection with the sealed-unit or battery unit by to deliver electric signals from the sealed-unit or battery pack to the light source. Each sealed-unit and battery pack not only has its own power source, but also circuitry and a trigger, and optionally other light source(s) having low power consumption such as an LED(s), electro-luminescent (EL) element, organic LED, or organic EL element.
US08434924B1 White light source using two colored LEDs and phosphor
A backlight for providing light to a computer-controlled display device, includes a plurality of first light sources, a plurality of second light sources, and a light guide panel (LGP). The LGP has at least one edge and a surface facing a display surface of the display device and is adapted for guiding light emitted by, and received from, the first and second light sources at one or more edges of the LGP to the surface of the LGP. The first light sources include first light emitting diodes (LEDs) having a peak emission wavelength of greater than 500 nm. The second light sources include second LEDs having a peak emission wavelength of less than 480 nm and phosphor material that absorbs a portion of light emitted from the second LEDs and converts the absorbed light into light emitted from the phosphor material having a peak emission wavelength greater than 500 nm.
US08434922B2 Portable electronic device
A portable electronic device includes a motherboard including at least one illuminator disposed thereon, a display screen parallel to the motherboard, and a light guide component disposed between the illuminator and the display screen. The light guide component includes a main body attached to a bottom surface of the display screen, and at least one foot portion extending from an edge of the main body corresponding to the at least one illuminator. The main body includes a light output surface facing the display screen. Each foot portion includes a distal end surface facing the illuminator to receive light emitted therefrom.
US08434921B2 Apparatus to provide variable illuminated signals for the presence of bicycles and other vehicles
Microprocessor-controlled light emitting diode (LED) arrays are built into an extruded tubular lens within a mast that is connected to a base assembly. A means of mounting, which may be an adjustable clamp, permits the base assembly to be connected to a seat post or other mounting point on a bicycle or other vehicle. The tubular lens allows for substantial dispersion of light, and various light patterns produced by the arrays may be selected and those patterns alternated automatically to achieve greater visibility of the vehicle to surrounding motorists. A handle within the base assembly allows a rider to lower the mast from its vertical operating position easily and pivotally up to 90 degrees parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle frame to facilitate mounting and dismounting the vehicle.
US08434920B2 Aerially deployed illumination system
An aerially deployed illumination system is provided which may be remotely operated or preprogrammed to illuminate a designated target, such as a geographic area, vehicle, or personnel. In particular, a remotely controlled UAV having an illumination system disposed thereon is provided, the illumination system comprised of a concentrated light source and light movement apparatus operable to rapidly scan the target with the light source, thereby providing an illusion of a large area of illumination. Preferably, a line is created from the light source, the line being rapidly moved over the target in specific patterns and at specific frequencies. The system may further include a plurality of UAV's capable of ad hoc networking, so as to illuminate both large areas, as well as stationary and moving targets. In addition, the UAV's having an illumination system disposed thereon may be disposed within a projectile, the projectile tube or gun launched, and the UAV ejected from the projectile over a designated target, thereby enabling quick delivery of the UAV to an area of interest.
US08434919B2 Adaptive forward lighting system for vehicle
An adaptive forward lighting system for a vehicle includes an imaging sensor having a field of view forward of the direction of travel of the controlled vehicle. A control processes image data to determine, at least in part, at least one of (i) the presence of an object of interest in the forward field of view of the imaging sensor, (ii) the location of an object of interest in the forward field of view of the imaging sensor, and (iii) a characteristic of an object of interest in the forward field of view of the imaging sensor. A beam pattern of a vehicle headlamp of the controlled vehicle is adjusted responsive, at least in part, to the processing of the image data. The control receives vehicle data via a vehicle communication bus. The control, responsive to processing of image data, is operable to provide at least one other function.
US08434916B2 Lighting and ventilating apparatus and method
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a combination lighting and ventilating apparatus for installation in a structure. The apparatus can include a main housing having a first aperture that defines a ventilating inlet and a lighting outlet, a lamp housing recessed within the main housing, having first and second apertures spaced a distance from one another, and having a portion that extends outside of the main housing, and a lamp recessed within the lamp housing and the main housing. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes a fan positioned to draw air into and through the first aperture of the lamp housing, around the lamp, and through the second aperture of the lamp housing. In another aspect of the invention, a method of lighting and ventilating a room using a combination lighting and ventilating apparatus is provided.
US08434912B2 LED device for wide beam generation
An apparatus and method is characterized by providing an optical transfer function between a predetermined illuminated surface pattern, such as a street light pattern, and a predetermined energy distribution pattern of a light source, such as that from an LED. A lens is formed having a shape defined by the optical transfer function. The optical transfer function is derived by generating an energy distribution pattern using the predetermined energy distribution pattern of the light source. Then the projection of the energy distribution pattern onto the illuminated surface is generated. The projection is then compared to the predetermined illuminated surface pattern to determine if it acceptably matches. The process continues reiteratively until an acceptable match is achieved. Alternatively, the lens shape is numerically or analytically determined by a functional relationship between the shape and the predetermined illuminated surface pattern and predetermined energy distribution pattern of a light source as inputs.
US08434911B2 Illuminating lens, and lighting device
An illuminating lens includes: a light entrance surface through which light emitted from a light source enters the lens; and a light exit surface through which the light that has entered the lens exits the lens. The light exit surface has: a concave portion intersecting the optical axis; and a convex portion provided around the concave portion to extend continuously from the concave portion. The light exit surface is formed in a shape such that a curvature C of micro-segments of the light exit surface in a cross section including the optical axis has a maximum value at a position outward from the midpoint of the convex portion.
US08434910B2 Light emitting device package and lighting system
Disclosed are a light emitting device package and a lighting system. The light emitting device package includes a body including a recess and a plurality of light emitting device receiving parts formed in a bottom surface of the recess, a plurality of light emitting devices separately provided in the light emitting device receiving parts, a plurality of individual lenses spaced apart from each other on the light emitting device receiving parts, and a common lens covering the individual lenses, wherein at least one of the plurality of individual lenses comprises a concave part formed at the upper portion of the individual lens.
US08434909B2 Light emitting display with light mixing within a film
In one embodiment, a light emitting device comprises an array of legs extending from a body of film with the bounding edges of the legs stacked, a first light source emitting light of a first color and a second light source emitting light of a second color into the stacked bounding edges where the light emitting region defined within the body is configured to extract light of a third color. In another embodiment, a light emitting device comprises three light sources positioned to direct light into a stacked array of bounding edges. In one embodiment, a method of generating light of adjustable color exiting a surface of a film is disclosed.
US08434907B2 Lighting apparatus
The lighting apparatus comprises: a first and a second light sources comprising a plurality of a light emitting devices disposed on one side of a substrate respectively; a heat radiating body which radiates heat from the plurality of the light emitting devices, comprises a space for housing the first and the second light source, and comprises an opening allowing light emitted from the plurality of the light emitting devices of the first and the second light sources to be emitted; and, a reflector being disposed on the heat radiating body and comprising a reflective surface for reflecting the light emitted from the light emitting devices of the first and the second light sources to the opening of the heat radiating body, and wherein the reflective surface of the reflector comprises two surfaces, and wherein the ends of the two surfaces are in contact with each other at a predetermined angle.
US08434906B2 Lighting system with thermal management system
Lighting systems having unique configurations are provided. For instance, the lighting system may include a light source, a thermal management system and driver electronics, each contained within a housing structure. The light source is configured to provide illumination visible through an opening in the housing structure. The thermal management system is configured to provide an air flow, such as a unidirectional air flow, through the housing structure in order to cool the light source. The driver electronics are configured to provide power to each of the light source and the thermal management system.
US08434905B2 LED based precision approach path indicator
A precision approach path indicator system (PAPI) including multiple LHA indicators and power sources. Each LHA indicator comprises several assembly modules, with each module made up of several red and white LEDs, several collimating lens, one optical combiner, and one projection lens set. From a side view of the module, the red LEDs are placed on top of white LEDs, with a collimating lens in front of each LED. The optical combiner is in front of both the red and white LEDs, slightly above the white LEDs in vertical placement. The optical combiner has a reflective coating on the bottom surface, and a red light filter coating on the projection surface. The combined beam of light is projected out through a projection lens at front of the assembly module.
US08434903B2 Lighting device
A lighting device includes a tubular body and a substrate. The tubular body has a chamber, a first end and a second end. The first and second ends communicate with the chamber. The substrate is axially disposed in the chamber. Multiple light-emitting elements are arranged on the substrate. By means of the substrate, the projection range and projection angle of the lighting device are enlarged to enhance luminous efficiency of the lighting device.
US08434897B2 LED-based lighting fixtures for surface illumination with improved heat dissipation and manufacturability
LED-based lighting apparatus and assembly methods in which mechanical and/or thermal coupling between respective components is accomplished via a transfer of force from one component to another. In one example, a multiple-LED assembly is disposed in thermal communication with a heat sink that forms part of a housing. A primary optical element situated within a pressure-transfer member is disposed above and optically aligned with each LED. A shared secondary optical facility forming another part of the housing is disposed above and compressively coupled to the pressure-transfer members. A force exerted by the second optical facility is transferred via the pressure-transfer members so as to press the LED assembly toward the heat sink, thereby facilitating heat transfer. In one aspect, the LED assembly is secured in the housing without the need for adhesives. In another aspect, the secondary optical facility does not directly exert pressure onto any primary optical element, thereby reducing optical misalignment.
US08434895B2 Luminaries for outdoors and public roads with LEDs as illuminating elements
A luminary for exteriors and public carriageways includes a plate of fixed LEDs, the plate has aluminum in a superior section; a dielectric adhesive is located on an interior face, which isolates the plate electrically from a layer which forms electrical copper tracks that serve to make electrical connections between the LEDs, the tracks are connected in series with a power supply; and resting on these tracks and the dielectric adhesive is a final layer of isolating “white” dielectric film.
US08434894B2 Lighting apparatus; components thereof and assemblies incorporating the same
A lighting apparatus includes a body portion, a conduit coupled to the body portion, and one or more illumination components coupled to the body portion, where the one or more illumination components are in electrical communication with the conduit. A lighting apparatus kit is also disclosed. A daisy-chained lighting apparatus assembly is also disclosed.
US08434893B2 Luminaire and methods of use
A lighting apparatus having a base member and a directional member are shown and described. The base member includes a first surface having a plurality of reflective elements extending therefrom. The base member also including a plurality of openings arranged in a pattern. Each openings is configured to receive a respective light source. The directional member has a portion of a reflective surface positioned relative to at least one opening to reflect light radiating from a lighting source disposed within the opening towards a portion of at least one of the reflective elements extending from the base member.
US08434888B2 Safety helmet or headpiece with improved safety features
A safety helmet or head piece having an incident light source disposed on the top or the crown of the helmet or head piece, means for controlling the orientation of the light source, wherein light emanates as a beam substantially vertically and upwardly irrespective of the orientation of the helmet or head piece. The light beam is a single or collimated beam comprised by one or more laser light sources of any color or color mix. The light source is mounted on the helmet or head piece so that the beam always emanates in substantially a vertical upwards direction irrespective of the orientation of the helmet or head piece. The invention being directed to the location and rescue of injured workers in poor visibility conditions and to the reduction and prevention of accidents in general.
US08434886B2 Light emitting diode, backlight module and liquid crystal display apparatus
A light emitting diode for a backlight module and/or a liquid crystal display apparatus includes a semiconductor structure, a first electrode and a second electrode. The semiconductor structure includes a first type doped semiconductor layer, a light emitting layer, and a second type doped semiconductor layer. The light emitting layer is disposed between the first type doped semiconductor layer and the second type doped semiconductor layer. The first electrode is electrically connected to the first type doped semiconductor layer. The second electrode is electrically connected to the second type doped semiconductor layer. The second electrode is an optical grating which allows light with a first polarization direction to pass through and is capable of reflecting light with a second polarization direction perpendicular to the first polarization direction.
US08434882B2 LED lamp
An LED lamp includes an optical part, a heat dissipation member and an electric part. The optical part includes a hollow light penetrable tube and an LED module received in the tube. The heat dissipation member is received in the tube to mount the LED module thereon. The electric part include a circuit board and a rechargeable battery arranged in the tube, and two end covers arranged at two opposite ends of the tube. The LED module is provided with at least one first LED and at least one second LED. The at least one first LED and the at least one second LED cooperatively function as a main light source to provide normal illumination when an external AC power source is supplied normally. The at least one second LED independently function as an auxiliary light source to provide emergency illumination when the external AC power source is interrupted.
US08434878B2 Proximity projector with a transmissive cover with modified reflectance properties
A projector includes: a projection unit that projects projection light toward an illuminated surface; a housing that houses the projection unit and has an opening that allows the projection light to exit outward; and a cover portion that blocks the opening and transmits the projection light, wherein a plurality of areas is set in the cover portion relative to the projection unit, and a process of changing the reflectance of the light-incident surface of the cover portion at which the projection light is reflected is performed on each of the areas.
US08434876B2 Projection type display apparatus having a light source device with improved light utilization efficiency
A projection type display apparatus having a long-life light source device with high light utilization efficiency includes first and second light source lamps; a light intensity equalizing element; first and second bending mirrors; an image display element modulating a light flux emitted from the light intensity equalizing element and converting it into image light; and a projection optical system projecting the image light on a screen; and the first light source lamp, the second light source lamp, the first bending mirror and the second bending mirror are arranged so that a first optical axis of the first light source lamp disagrees with a second optical axis of the second light source lamp and a first distance between the first bending mirror and an incidence end differs from a second distance between the second bending mirror and the incidence end.
US08434874B2 Pattern projection light source and compound-eye distance measurement apparatus
A pattern projection light source is disclosed in which a light source (2a); a plurality of mask regions (5) in each of which a light-transmitting portion that transmits light from the light source therethrough is formed in a predetermined pattern; and a plurality of lenses (7) that each form an image of the predetermined pattern of the light-transmitting portion at a predetermined distance are arranged in this order. Since the pattern projection light source includes a plurality of projection optical systems each including a mask region and a lens, a compact and thin pattern projection light source can be realized. Moreover, provision of a plurality of lenses makes it possible to increase the imaging range of a pattern image. Furthermore, an image of the pattern of the light-transmitting portion can be formed clearly on the object.
US08434872B2 Multi-viewpoint floating image display device
A multi-viewpoint floating image display device enabling observation from multiple viewpoints by combining mirror images of objects to be projected and spatially separated from one another as real images in a small region in space. The display device comprises a multi-viewpoint floating image display optical system having real mirror imaging optical systems each of which forms a real image of each of the objects in a plane-symmetric position symmetric to the object with respect to one geometrical plane which is the symmetry plane. All the real mirror imaging optical systems are so arranged that the angle formed by given symmetry planes is less than 180 degrees on the real image side with respect to the symmetry planes. The objects are so arranged as to correspond to the respective real mirror imaging optical systems.
US08434862B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus, including: a recording unit configured to form an image on a recording medium conveying in a conveying direction; a main body portion configured to support the recording unit in an openable and closable manner; a conveying unit configured to convey, in the conveying direction, the recording medium on which an image is to be formed by the recording unit, the conveying unit being disposed below the recording unit; a holder configured to contain the recording medium on which an image is to be formed by the recording unit, the holder being disposed upstream of the conveying unit in the conveying direction; and a raising and lowering mechanism configured to raise and lower the holder between a first position for feeding the recording medium to the recording unit and a second position placed above the first position.
US08434861B2 System for the fixing of printed images on a printing substrate
Printed images exhibiting a color medium are applied to the printing substrate by a printing device, the printing substrate having been provided beforehand with a viscous fluid film by an application unit arranged in front of the printing device. The color medium of the printed images migrates to a surface of the viscous fluid film and adheres there. After the drying of the fluid film the printed images are firmly fixed on the printing substrate.
US08434859B2 Cartridge
A cartridge includes a casing, a printing material containing portion, a printing material flow path and first and second insertion holes formed in a front face of the casing. A rod used for detection of the out-of-printing material state is inserted into the first insertion hole, and a printing material supply tube is inserted into the second insertion hole. The first insertion hole is located on the front face at a middle position between a first side face and a second side face of the casing.
US08434855B2 Fluid ejector including MEMS composite transducer
A fluid ejector includes a substrate, a MEMS transducing member, a compliant membrane, walls, and a nozzle. First portions of the substrate define an outer boundary of a cavity. Second portions of the substrate define a fluidic feed. A first portion of the MEMS transducing member is anchored to the substrate. A second portion of the MEMS transducing member extends over at least a portion of the cavity and is free to move relative to the cavity. The compliant membrane is positioned in contact with the MEMS transducing member. A first portion of the compliant membrane covers the MEMS transducing member. A second portion of the compliant membrane is anchored to the substrate. Partitioning walls define a chamber that is fluidically connected to the fluidic feed. At least the second portion of the MEMS transducing member is enclosed within the chamber. The nozzle is disposed proximate to the second portion of the MEMS transducing member and distal to the fluidic feed.
US08434852B2 Liquid ejecting head unit and liquid ejecting apparatus
Provided is a liquid ejecting head unit including: a liquid ejecting head which includes a nozzle ejecting a liquid; and a head fixing member to which a plurality of the liquid ejecting heads is positioned and fixed, wherein the head fixing member includes a head holding unit to which the liquid ejecting head is fixed and a body to which the head holding unit is fixed, and wherein the rigidity of the body is lower than that of the head holding unit and the specific weight of the body is smaller than that of the head holding unit.
US08434851B2 Printing apparatus
A mounting detection circuit of a printing apparatus outputs a first mounting inspection signal to one of first terminals and outputs a second mounting inspection signal to one of second terminals thereby performing a mounting inspection for determining whether or not printing materials are mounted depending on whether or not second mounting response signal is received, and examines at least one of whether or not the second mounting response signal is influenced by the first mounting inspection signal and whether or not a first mounting response signal is influenced by the second mounting inspection signal thereby performing a leakage inspection for determining whether or not there is a leakage between the first and second terminals.
US08434850B2 Liquid discharge head and manufacturing method of the same
A liquid discharge head having a liquid discharge head substrate including an element row in which a plurality of energy generating elements for generating thermal energy for use in discharging liquid are arranged, and a discharge port member corresponding to each of the plurality of energy generating elements, the discharge port members including a plurality of walls in contact with the liquid discharge head substrate to form a plurality of liquid chambers for storing liquid and a plurality of discharge ports which communicate with each of the plurality of the liquid chambers to discharge liquid with the thermal energy generated by the energy generating element. The liquid discharge head further includes a plurality of heat dissipating members corresponding to each of the plurality of the liquid chambers and having a first portion exposed to the liquid chamber and a second portion exposed to the atmosphere.
US08434848B2 Image forming device and image forming method
An image forming device forms an image on a recording sheet by bidirectional recording. In the image forming device, a control part controls the image forming device. The control part includes a distance changing part that changes a sheet transporting distance for transporting the recording sheet after a forward movement of a recording head to a first transport distance and changes a sheet transporting distance for transporting the recording sheet after a backward movement of the recording head to a second transport distance, and a nozzle changing part that determines inactive nozzles which do not discharge a recording liquid among nozzles of the recording head alternately for one of the forward movement and the backward movement of the recording head.
US08434847B2 System and method for dynamic stretch reflex printing
A method of adjusting the operation of printheads in a printing system with a moving sheet carrying device has been developed. The method includes identifying a first amount of sheet carrying device displacement and second amount of sheet carrying device displacement as the sheet carrying device carries a media sheet past first and second printheads, respectively, for imaging of a predetermined location of the media sheet. A time for operating the second printhead is adjusted based on a difference between the first sheet carrying device offset and the second sheet carrying device offset to provide color registration between ink drops of the first printhead and second printhead on the media sheet.
US08434838B2 Individual locker assembly for refrigerators
The individual locker assembly for refrigerators is intended for use in the workplace to permit employees to secure their perishable foods and beverages for lunches and snacks. The locker assembly is also suitable for installation in refrigerator units in medical offices and the like for the secure storage of controlled medications and the like that must be refrigerated. The locker assembly is assembled from top, bottom, side, and rear panels, and a series of intermediate shelves and dividers installed therein defining a plurality of individual storage compartments. Vertical panels include spring-biased pins that engage mating holes provided in the upper and lower interior panels of the refrigeration unit, to secure the assembly in place. Each compartment has its own lockable door. The locks may be combination units, key locks, external hasps and padlocks, or other lock types as desired. Integral locks may include provision for coin operation, if desired.
US08434837B2 Refrigerator
Disclosed is a refrigerator that has a slider and chain units that are coupled in a manner that allows rotation. The slider and chain units define a cable chain that covers a wire. Curve guide portions are positioned between the slider and a chain unit, and a rotation restricting portion is positioned between the chain units. The cable chain may curve in the same direction regardless of the force applied so as to reduce potential damage on the wire due to scratches by peripheral components and mis-operation of a refrigerator door. Also, a buffer may be installed at an end of a fixed rail to provide additional safety, a protection cover is installed at a driving motor to reduce potential for separation of the wire, and a door switch is installed at a rail guide to facilitate detachment of the door switch.
US08434836B2 Slide assembly
A slide assembly includes a catch assembly secured to a first rail member, and a second rail member in sliding engagement with the first rail member. The second rail member includes a post extending laterally towards the first rail member. The catch assembly includes a catch member pivotable between a post retaining position and a post releasing position. When the catch member is in the post releasing position, movement of the second rail member from an extended position to a retracted position causes the post to engage a bearing surface of the catch member to pivot the catch member from the post releasing position to the post retaining position. The bearing surface of the catch member is contoured to provide substantially continuous and uniform engagement between the bearing surface and the post as the post pivots the catch member from the post releasing position to the post retaining position.
US08434832B2 Method and apparatus for locking a computer device
A lock for a computer device comprises a lever operable to be positioned in a locked position and comprising at least one flange, a locking base slidably coupled to a device housing and attached to the lever, and a spring coupled to the locking base and to the device housing and operated upon by the lever, where in the locked position the at least one flange slides in a first corresponding at least one notch formed on the device housing, and where the locking base slides into a corresponding second notch formed on the device housing.
US08434829B2 Method and system of retaining a cutting bit
Retaining a cutting bit. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods including: placing a neck portion of a retaining clip in a groove on outer surface of a sleeve (the sleeve with a cylindrical bore defining a longitudinal axis); then telescoping the sleeve and retaining clip, with the neck portion placed in the groove, within a bit block (the telescoping such that an arm portion of the retaining clip partially occludes an aperture of the cylindrical bore); and then inserting a shank portion of a cutting bit within the cylindrical bore of the sleeve (the arm portion of the retaining clip mates with at least a portion of an annular groove of the shank portion); and retaining the shank portion of the cutting bit by way of the arm portion of the retaining clip.
US08434828B2 Vehicular seat assembly
A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat cushion having a connector insertion hole for receiving therein a connector of a child seat for attachment of the child seat to the seat assembly, and a buckle insertion slit for allowing a buckle to be pulled out onto the seat cushion. The buckle insertion slit and the connector insertion hole are formed contiguously or otherwise integrally with each other.
US08434818B2 Vehicle seat having active head restraint
A vehicle seat assembly having a seatback frame, an upper armature that is movable relative to the seatback frame and a head restraint mounted on the upper armature. A linkage assembly operatively interconnects the upper armature and an impact body such that movement of the impact body relative to the seatback frame acts on the linkage assembly to move the upper armature relative to the seatback frame to cause the head restraint to move toward the occupant. The linkage assembly includes a linkage and a coupler movably connected to the linkage. The coupler includes a first member movably connected to the seatback frame and a second member movably connected to the first member at a location below the upper end of the impact body.
US08434816B2 Vehicle body structure for automobile
A tongue of a finger hook of an openable area is opened outward about a resin hinge by pressing the tongue from the inner side of the inner fender. When the finger hook is pulled by the finger hooked therein, the openable area undergoes elastic deformation and can be opened from the fender panel. When the openable area is opened, a gap α is formed between the fender panel and the openable area. In order to pull the finger hook, the finger is inserted into the finger hook from the resin hinge side to the slit portion side.
US08434813B2 Drainage structure of weather strip
A drainage structure of a die molded part 102 on an upper side of a weather strip 10 includes an installation base member 11 installed on a front pillar 4 of a retractable roof vehicle, a hollow seal part 12 in elastic contact with a door glass 5, and a seal lip 13 in elastic contact with an inner-cabin side surface of the door glass 5 and thereby forming an eaves-trough-shaped water receiving part 14. A lower side wall surface 12b of the hollow seal part 12 has a fin 40 formed on an outer-cabin side edge 110 thereof and a bead part 30 formed from the outer-cabin side edge 110 of the lower side wall surface 12b to a position beyond an elastic contact position on the bead part with the door glass 5 toward an inner-cabin side and the bead part 30 is inclined downward.
US08434809B2 Dash cluster system and method
A dash cluster system and a method for securing and/or interconnecting a dash cluster to power equipment. The dash cluster system includes a housing having a connecting assembly including at least one peripheral connector positioned along a peripheral surface of the housing. The dash cluster system further comprises a bezel having a front side and a rear side. The bezel also comprises a connecting arrangement formed from at least one extending connector, extending from the rear side. The dash cluster system also comprises a securing connection formed between the housing and the bezel by the interlocking of the peripheral connector of the connecting assembly with the extending connector of the connecting arrangement.
US08434808B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat has a seatback movable between an upright position and a horizontal position, a seat bottom movable between a use position perpendicular to the seatback and a stowage position parallel to the seatback, and a lock mechanism for holding the seat bottom at the stowage position when the seat bottom is moved to the stowage position. When the seatback is moved to the horizontal position, the vehicle seat has a dive-down state where the seatback and the seat bottom are stacked on top of the other. The seat bottom has a detection lever that, when the seat bottom becomes the dive-down state, comes into contact with a floor panel and is displaced. In the lock mechanism, when the detection lever is displaced, the function of holding the seat bottom at the stowage position becomes ineffective.
US08434807B2 Plastic skin having conductors
The invention relates to a single or multiple-layer plastic skin as the surface covering of coated objects. Regions are disposed in the plastic skin which are made up of a mixture of the plastic material of the plastic skin and a conducting material.
US08434803B1 Adhesive tools and methods of using adhesive tools
A tool is attachable to a card and is useable to pull the card out of a card slot of a wallet. The tool includes a sticky end having two portions between which at least a portion of the card is insertable and which are stickable to the card, and a pulling end that extends away from the card when the sticky end is stuck to the card. A tool is attachable to an object, and the tool includes a first part, a second part, and a tab part. The first part has adhesive for adhering to a first side of the object. The second part has adhesive for adhering to a second side of the object opposite the first side of the object. The tab part is connected to the first part and the second part. A method allows for using an adhesive tool to pull a card.
US08434801B2 Flange lifter device
A pipe flange lifting device for supporting and leveling two holes of a blind flange during installation onto a pipe end. The device comprises two L-shaped claws connecting to a common pin, forming an overall triangular-shaped device having a crane hoist fitting. The claws are positioned on opposing sides of a pipe flange and rotate freely with respect to the pin prior to installation, whereafter the claws are fitted beneath lifting bolts fitted through a flange for stable support during operation. The lifting bolts comprise a pair of bolts inserted into eyes of the flange prior to the lifting operation. Spacers along the pin allow the claws to be separated by a desired distance and prevent pinch points due to claw inclination. The design of the claws provides stable support for two lift bolts of a pipe flange and assists in the installation process.
US08434798B2 Attaching structure and electronic device using same
An attaching structure is used for assembling a first member to a second member. The attaching structure includes a latching element and the connecting assembly. The latching element is assembled to the first member. The connecting assembly includes a seat and a fastener. The seat adjustably latches to the latching element. The fastener is threaded into the first member, the second member, and matches with the seat.
US08434797B2 Shutter fastener system and method of installation
A shutter and fastener system comprising a shutter and two or more fastener mechanisms each comprising cooperating latching and anchor devices, one device mounted on an edge portion of the shutter and the other on an adjacent trim portion. The latching device engages the anchor device and exerts a strong pulling force substantially parallel with the surface of the shutter. The anchor device converts a portion of this force to a perpendicular force resulting in firm engagement between the shutter and the trim portion. An installation method comprises the steps of proving a shutter with at least one latching device mounted thereon and a small opening in the shutter aligned with operating means for the device. An anchor device is provided on an adjacent trim portion and the operating means is actuated from inside the shutter though the small opening to secure the shutter in place. A hanger means for the shutter may also be provided and the need for a ladder in an elevated installation is obviated by passing the shutter outwardly through an opening and thereafter actuating one or more latching devices from within the structure.
US08434795B2 Dual door release handle
The present invention is a dual door release handle and related mechanisms for use with cabs of industrial vehicles that an operator may reach from outside of such a cab in order to fully release a door that has been propped open in order to close it. The dual door release handle of the present invention includes a latching mechanism having a handle mounted on the inside of the cab that extends into the doorway such that it may be reached through the open door of the cab by an operator who is located outside and/or below the cab. A linkage is provided between this handle and an operable device associated with the release mechanism inside the cab. The linkage is operatively attached to the handle and to the release mechanism such that turning the handle causes the linkage to move the release mechanism. Movement of the handle pulls the linkage and releases the holdback holding the open door against the side of the cab. Thus, an operator may reach up into the cab from the outside and pull down on the interior handle in order to release the door from its holdback position against the side of the cab allowing the door to swing freely so that it may be closed.
US08434793B2 Coated seals
The seal made between two surfaces is enhanced by forming a coating (22), such as a self-assembled monolayer of a functionalized fluorinated macromolecule, on one or both of the surfaces.
US08434791B2 Lottery transaction mechanisms
Described are a number of mechanisms that can reduce transaction costs and increase the economic viability of a number of products. Included is a combination instant lottery ticket and debit card that makes it possible to issue prepaid debit cards having a relatively low monetary value. Also included is a combination on-line ticket/receipt and debit card that can automate the prize paying process, simplifying the retailer's responsibilities while reducing the potential for fraud. Various cash flow and authentication techniques such as age and location verification, nano payment methods and spam filters based on these mechanisms are also described. In addition, instant lottery tickets, and in particular, losing tickets can be provided with a small residual value by placing account information on the ticket. In another version, a lottery ticket can be combined with a payment card that operates as a closed payment system whereby the payment card can only be used with a specified vendor.
US08434790B2 Ski-pole basket
A stick snow ring (1) for a stick is described, with a stick holder (5) for receiving a stick tube. According to the invention, the stick snow ring (1) is characterized in that the snow ring region (2, 3) is designed as an essentially rigid disc and is fastened by means of a joint (4) in a manner such that it can rotate freely about a stick axis (A) and such that it can tilt about a tilt axis (B) over an angular range of 150°. The size of the snow ring can preferably be adapted individually to various use conditions.
US08434787B2 Counterweight attachment and removal system and machine using same
A counterweight attachment and removal system includes a machine mounting bracket and a link having two spaced apart arms. A proximal end of the link is pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket. A rotate cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the machine mounting bracket and a distal end pivotably coupled with a distal end of the link. A slide cylinder has a proximal end pivotably coupled with the link and a distal end pivotably coupled with a lift pin. The lift pin is positioned through slots defined by the two spaced apart arms. The counterweight attachment and removal system includes a first configuration in which the link is pivoted away from the machine mounting bracket, the rotate cylinder is retracted, the slide cylinder is extended, and the lift pin is positioned through distal portions of the slots. According to a second configuration, the link is pivoted toward the machine mounting bracket, the rotate cylinder is extended, the slide cylinder is retracted, and the lift pin is positioned through proximal portions of the slots.
US08434786B2 Front airbag including sub-string and vent part
A front airbag including a sub-string and a vent. The front airbag attenuates impact in order to provide protection to a child or an occupant in an abnormal position on a passenger seat. Upon a vehicle collision, the front airbag discharges internal air through a vent provided at the lateral surface of the front airbag, if the front airbag is not inflated at the front, but is instead laterally inflated. The front airbag includes a main tether provided at a central portion of an airbag cushion, a vent selectively discharging air to an outside from the front airbag, and a sub-string, connected to and between the main tether, to control opening/closing of the vent part.
US08434784B2 Airbag apparatus
An airbag apparatus is mounted on a vehicle as housed in a housing and includes an airbag inflatable with inflation gas for catching an object of protection. The airbag includes a sheet-shaped circumferential wall made from synthetic resin. The circumferential wall is plastically deformable in such a manner as to be elongated due to increase of internal pressure caused by being pressed by the object of protection when arresting the object of protection at full inflation.
US08434780B2 Rollator
A rollator is disclosed in this invention. The rollator includes: a base frame; front wheel assemblies and rear wheel assemblies respectively mounted on both sides of the base frame; an inverted U-shaped supporting pipe; a H-shaped armrest bracket; connection pieces having block grooves thereon; a slide control lever for cooperating with the block grooves; a seat plate; a spring element; wherein the base frame is provided with unidirectional hinged seats; both bottom ends of the supporting pipe are hinged to the base frame, and both side arms of the supporting pipe are provided with slide holes facing each other; the armrest bracket has bottom portions hinged to the unidirectional hinged seat. The rollator has a simple structure and can be used for various situations in both folded and unfolded state.
US08434776B2 Bicycle frame with rear suspension system
A shock absorbing bicycle frame includes a front frame unit connected to a bottom bracket shell by which the drive tension is applied to a drive chain, a rear wheel swing arm attached to the front frame unit at a single pivot point and presenting a mounting end to receive a rear axle of a rear wheel. The distance between the mounting end and the bottom bracket shell is variable over the full rear wheel travel. The frame further includes a rear wheel suspension assembly including a compressible shock absorbing unit connecting the rear wheel swing arm to the front frame unit and a chain unit pivotably mounted on the front frame unit, rigidly connected to both the rear wheel swing arm and to the drive chain to maintain the drive chain length over the full rear wheel travel so that the shock absorbing unit is not affected by pedalling forces due to the rider pedalling, the pedalling forces being then not wasted.
US08434770B2 Transverse link on a motor vehicle
A transverse link (1) has a main body (2), which has at least one first fixing region (4) for pivotal attachment to a vehicle frame element. The first fixing region (4) has a journal (9) surrounded by a bearing bush (23). A stop region (19) is arranged proximate the first fixing region (4). The stop region is interrupted when viewed in the circumferential direction, resulting in the formation of diametrically opposite thickened portions (21, 22), which are arranged between the main body (2) and the journal (9) and are embodied in such a way that only forces acting in the lateral and vertical vehicle directions are absorbed when the main body (2) is twisted out of the neutral position thereof, about a vertical axis (Y) of a second fixing region (3).
US08434763B2 Lawn game using rolling disks and rings
A lawn game uses a pair of markers toward which each player rolls a disk while standing proximate the other maker and/or tosses rings. Once all disks have been rolled or all of the rings have been tossed, or both, the disk or ring closest to the marker determines which player scores points for that round. Disk scoring is based on the number on the disk facing upwardly or both numbers if the disk remains on its side for each disk within a certain distance from the marker using a multiplier if the disk contacts the marker. Ring scoring is based on the proximity to the approached marker with a ring encircling the top of the marker being the best. A rope is removably attachable to the markers and helps with measurements.
US08434760B2 Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus includes a conveying roller which conveys a sheet, a cylindrical motor which drives the conveying roller, an outer diameter of the motor being approximately equal to or smaller than an outer diameter of the conveying roller, and a supporting portion which supports the motor such that a rotational center of the motor is arranged coaxially with a rotational center of a rotational shaft of the conveying roller the motor is positioned within a maximum sheet that can be conveyed by the conveying roller in a width direction perpendicular to the sheet conveying direction.
US08434753B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus includes a conveying portion which can move a sheet in a sheet conveying direction and in a sheet width direction, a moving portion which moves the conveying portion in the sheet width direction, a punching portion which punches a hole in the sheet, and a pressing portion which presses an upstream end of the sheet. The sheet forms a first loop to correct skew feeding while the sheet is conveyed with its downstream end abutted against the conveying portion in the sheet conveying direction. The conveying portion conveys the sheet. The moving portion moves the conveying portion in the sheet width direction to correct lateral registration of the sheet. The pressing portion presses an upstream end of the sheet in the sheet conveying direction and forms a second loop of the sheet to correct skew feeding. The sheet is positioned with reference to the pressing portion.
US08434752B2 Apparatus for opening and transporting a product with a non-symmetrical fold
A method for transporting newspapers includes the steps of feeding an asymmetrically folded multiple section newspaper into a pocket of a pocket conveyor of an inserting machine, wherein the asymmetrically folded multiple section newspaper has an extended lap having a height of at least 15% of a height of the asymmetrically folded newspaper when unfolded. A face of a first section of the headline side of the newspaper, when fed into the pocket is adjacent a movable wall of the pocket, and a back of a last section of the headline side of the newspaper adjacent a fixed wall of the pocket. The method further comprises feeding one or more inserts from a hopper to the pocket, where the inserts are fed into an opening between newspaper sections, removing the newspapers with the inserts therein from the pocket with a gripper conveyor, and releasing the newspapers with the inserts from the gripper conveyor headline up on a lapped stream conveyor.
US08434749B2 Body mount assembly
A body mount for use in motor vehicles in which the mount is sandwiched between the subframe and body. The mount has an insert member with an oblong shape in the lateral displacement direction of the vehicle. The insert member is surrounded by a microcellular urethane body. The oblong shape increases the compression of the microcellular urethane body that can be used to respond to lateral forces. The lateral response rate can be stiffer than the fore and aft response rate. The isolation mount also can facilitate fine tuning thereof by selectively indenting a cup member surrounding the microcellular urethane body to adjust the vibration characteristics of the body mount.
US08434744B2 Stirring device for activated sludges
A stirring device for activated sludges contained in a basin includes a stirring body having a hyperboloidal wall with a lower circumferential surface, and a funnel-shaped recess underside the hyperboloidal wall; a shaft attached to the stirring body; an air supply line adapted to extend along a bottom of the basin and having a vertical section to supply air into the recess of the stirring body; a disk arranged underside the stirring body and spaced away from the lower circumferential surface to form an annular gap therewith; and shear ribs formed under the lower circumferential surface to extend along the lower circumferential surface and surround the annular gap. The vertical section of the air supply line extends coaxially through the disk in relation to the shaft so that when the stirring body is rotating, the shear ribs distribute air bubbles through the annular gap.
US08434739B1 Adjustable demolition leveraging tool and method
An adjustable demolition leverage tool capable of removable and adjustable connection to various rotationally and positionably adjustable tool heads being specifically shaped to achieve various demolition tasks. The tool heads are configured so the distance between the two side edges of a tool head may be extended or reduced and the angle of the leading edge of the tool head with respect to the handle of the leverage tool may also be adjusted.
US08434738B1 Flooring installation tool
Jack-type tools for moving elements such as flooring elements by pulling and, alternatively, by pushing are shown and described. In an embodiment, the jack includes a base, a puller pivotably attached to the base, a ram extendable from the base, and a ram-drive mechanism in power-transmission relationship with the ram which is operative to extend the ram. The pivotably attached puller contacts a flooring element side portion during a pulling mode of operation and pivots out of the way so that the jack can push a flooring element during a pushing mode of operation. The ram extends from the base against a fixed surface such as a wall or cabinet to apply a force which pulls the flooring element with the puller to move the puller and flooring element away from the fixed surface and, alternatively, a force which pushes the flooring element by extension of the ram with the tool secured with respect to a subfloor or other support.
US08434735B2 Wear rings for coupler devices and coupler devices comprising the same
A bottom loading coupler may include a coupler body and a plurality of interlocks. Each interlock may be positioned in a corresponding slot in the body sidewall and have an engaged position and a disengaged position with respect to the coupler body. A coupler sleeve formed from a first material may be slidably positioned around the body sidewall of the coupler body. A wear ring formed from a second material may be disposed on the inner circumference of the coupler sleeve. The wear ring and the coupler sleeve may form an interlock retaining seat. The coupler sleeve may have a first, retracted position relative to the coupler body, wherein the interlocks are biased to the disengaged position and retained in the interlock retaining seat. The coupler sleeve may also have a second, extended position relative to the coupler body, wherein the wear ring biases the interlocks to the engaged position.
US08434734B2 Electromagnetic actuator and valve
The invention concerns an electromagnetic actuator (7) with a coil (8) and at least two armatures (12, 17) being movable along an axis (16) and being acted upon by a magnetic field generated by the coil (8). It is endeavoured to achieve large control opportunities by simple means. For this purpose, it is provided that one armature (12) is acted upon by a larger drive force from the magnetic field than another armature (17).
US08434732B1 Multi-functional portable anchoring system
A portable anchoring apparatus and kit is provided which allows large animals to be safely hitched a safe distance from an anchoring object (e.g., a motor vehicle). Other embodiments of the portable anchoring apparatus and kit include a portable anchored table, a portable anchored large sign, and a portable anchored combination table and large sign.
US08434731B2 Structural support
The invention relates to a support structure for use in supporting a road sign or the like. A longitudinal tubular support member has a uniform cross-section that includes a plurality of circular or part-circular port sections for receiving an end anchorage. Enclosing wall sections extend between the port sections and are shaped to include a concave form so as to promote inward collapsing of the support member in the event of an impact to the support structure.
US08434730B2 Securing devices for wall hangings and associated systems and methods
Devices and systems for leveling wall hangings and for maintaining the wall hangings level can include magnets and magnetic targets. As an example, a magnet can be secured to one of a wall hanging and a wall, and the magnetic target can be secured to the other of a wall hanging and a wall. Interaction between the magnet and the magnetic target can aid in positioning the wall hanging. The magnetic target can include another magnet or a magnetic material.
US08434726B2 Mounting apparatus for data storage device
A mounting apparatus for mounting a data storage device on a bracket includes a locating member fixed on the bracket. The bracket includes a sidewall defining a first through hole and a second through hole at a sidewall back. The sidewall defines a first fixing slot and a second fixing slot at a sidewall front. The data storage device defines a fixing hole. A fixing portion is located on a first end of the locating member corresponds to the first through hole, the second through hole and the fixing hole. A locking portion is located on a second end of the locating member corresponds to the first fixing slot and the second fixing slot. The data storage device is fixed on a first position and a second position of the bracket.
US08434719B2 Leading edge element of aircraft, method for manufacturing one, wing and stabilizer
A leading edge element, a method for manufacturing one, and an aircraft wing and stabilizer furnished with the leading edge element. The leading edge element is an elongate piece that comprises a skin plate and at least one longitudinal stiffener. The shape of the front edge of the skin plate is closed and the tail edge is open. The stiffener is fastened between the inner surfaces of the skin plate. Between the inner surface of the skin plate of the outermost longitudinal stiffener, there is a longitudinal space free of transverse stiffeners.
US08434718B2 Reusable rotorcraft bumper, and a rotorcraft having such a bumper
A reusable bumper (10) for a rotorcraft (1) suitable for protecting a rear end (3) of said rotorcraft (1). The bumper (10) comprises a resilient outer shell (20) forming a first chamber (11) having a resilient inner shell (30) placed therein and forming a second chamber (12), said outer shell (20) having at least one main orifice (21), said inner shell (30) being provided with management means (50) for managing the pressure that exists inside said second chamber (12) and suitable for enabling said pressure to increase up to a predetermined threshold in order to inform the pilot that the bumper (10) has made contact with the ground (S), and then to enable said pressure to drop in order to absorb energy resulting from said contact.
US08434717B2 Aircraft front portion including a concave bulkhead separating a non-pressurized radome area and a pressurized area
An aircraft front portion includes a sealed bulkhead separating a non pressurized radome area from a pressurized area. The sealed bulkhead is delimited by two surfaces opposite to each other, one being substantially concave when seen from the radome area and the other being substantially convex when seen from the pressurized area.
US08434714B2 Aircraft landing gear
An aircraft landing gear for an aircraft having an engine, an outer surface, a cavity formed in the outer surface, a cover arranged to close the cavity, the landing gear being arranged to be movable between a stowed configuration, in which it is stowed in the cavity, and a deployed configuration, the landing gear comprising an engine debris guard panel arranged to inhibit tire propelled debris striking the engine whilst the landing gear is in the deployed configuration, wherein the guard panel is arranged to form at least a part of the cover when the landing gear is in the stowed configuration.
US08434713B2 Aircraft front nose landing gear and method of making an aircraft landing gear
An aircraft front nose landing gear having both elastomeric and nonelastomeric elements is provided along with a method of making the same. The aircraft front nose landing gear includes the ability to reduce/inhibit oscillating shimmy rotation vibrations. The method further provides for making a landing gear with a shimmy damper for further reducing oscillating rotations.
US08434711B2 Unguided missile and projectile defense shield supported by tethered balloons
In this invention, there is provided a method and device for shielding and deflecting unguided missiles, mortars and other projectiles and ordnance. A plurality of lighter-than-air balloons are tethered from a plurality of ground anchors so that the balloons are positioned spaced apart, adjacent to, along and buoyed above the border to be defended between the launch area and the target area. A defense shield is suspended from the plurality of tethered lighter-than-air balloons, extending generally vertically covering a range of heights for engaging and deflecting missiles launched along the expected trajectories.
US08434710B2 Aircraft
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in the form of a “tail sitter” flying wing adapted for vertical take off and landing and transitions between flight as a helicopter and wing-borne flight. The vehicle is electrically powered from onboard batteries and equipped with rotors on miniature helicopter rotor heads at the tips of the wing for both lift, during take off and landing, and forward thrust. In planform the wing comprises, to each side of its longitudinal axis, an inner section with swept back leading and trailing edges, and an outer section with a leading edge more perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, being only mildly swept back or substantially unswept, and a swept forward trailing edge.
US08434709B2 Length learn sequence for dispensing in automatic towel dispenser
A towel dispenser includes a housing, a sensor, and a motor assembly that causes in response to a hand: a leading edge of the toweling to be extended from the housing a multiple of a predetermined unit length (PUL), optionally plus a further extent that is less than PUL; and then to be retracted. The motor assembly ceases retracting based on sensing the leading edge of the toweling. PUL is set in a length learn sequence by: retracting the toweling until a leading edge of the toweling is sensed; advancing the toweling a preset extended length greater than at least a distance between immediately adjacent lines of perforations in the toweling; retracting the toweling until a leading edge of the toweling is sensed while measuring a length by which the toweling is retracted; and determining the difference between the preset extended length and the measured retracted length.
US08434705B2 Shredding device with counter knife assembly
This invention relates to a shredding device having a driving unit driving a rotor including shredding tools on its periphery which for comminuting a material such as waste material and/or industrial residues, interact with a least one counter knife assembly that is arranged in a stationary fashion with respect to the machine housing during the shredding operation. The shredding device is characterized in that the counter knife assembly includes at least two counter knife bars which run approximately parallel to each other and are arranged one above the other in the rotating direction of the rotor, the counter knife bars, for the compensation of wear at the shredding tools and/or at the counter knife assembly, being arranged for an adjustment radially to the rotor axis by a mutually different degree by means of an adjustment device. A process for operating a shredding device is also described.
US08434703B2 Apparatus and method for comminution of mineral ore
An apparatus and method for comminution of ore material includes a radio frequency multi-input, multimode processing resonant cavity arranged for radio frequency electromagnetic irradiation of a stream of ore material passing therethrough. A multi-input measurement resonant cavity, located upstream of the processing resonant cavity may be provided to determine an impedance of ore material to be irradiated in the processing resonant cavity. The radio frequency electrical field generated in the processing resonant cavity is matched to the determined impedance.
US08434698B1 Underground chemical mixing dispensing system
An underground sprinkler system including a tank having an inner cavity adapted to hold chemicals, a distribution pipe fluidly connected to the inner cavity of the tank allowing chemicals to be added to the tank; a mixer connector pipe fluidly connected to the inner cavity of the tank and to a water source hose; a pump disposed in the tank for pumping the chemicals out of the inner cavity of the tank and into the water source hose via the mixer connector pipe; and a secondary connector pipe fluidly connected to the inner cavity of the tank and to the water source hose, the secondary connector pipe allows water from the water source hose to enter into the inner cavity of the tank.
US08434697B1 Autonomous system for injecting additives into irrigation water
Injection apparatus for automatically applying pest control concentrates and fertilizers into an existing underground irrigation system. Apparatus uses an electronic control system programmed to activate one or more injection pumps and to also operate the zonal flow control solenoids contained in an existing underground or other type of irrigation system. Apparatus includes a single or plurality of storage reservoirs for storing one or more additives with piping to deliver these additives to the existing irrigation system.
US08434696B2 Self regulating fluid bearing high pressure rotary nozzle with balanced thrust force
A high pressure rotary nozzle having a rotating shaft operating within a fixed housing wherein the of axial force which acts upon the shaft due to the fluid pressure at the shaft inlet is balanced by allowing passage of a small amount of the pressurized fluid to be bled to an area or chamber between the outside of the opposite end of the shaft and the inside of the housing where the fluid pressure can act axially in an opposing direction upon the shaft to balance the axial inlet force. The balance of axial forces is self-regulating by controlling escape of the fluid through a tapered or frusto-conical region between the shaft and housing. This further provides a fluid bearing between the two surfaces and allows use of interchangeable rotating jet heads having jet orifices which can be oriented in virtually any desirable configuration including axially forward of the nozzle.
US08434694B2 Door mounted room deodorizer
A room deodorizer that utilizes an airflow created by a ventilation device within an enclosed room to disperse a deodorizing agent. The room deodorizer is mounted near the bottom edge of a door and includes a deodorizing strip that extends below the bottom edge of the door to the floor. The deodorizing strip obstructs an airflow passageway created between the bottom edge of the door and the floor. The deodorizing strip is impregnated with a deodorizing agent such that when a ventilation device within the room is activated, the created airflow passes through the deodorizing strip to release the deodorizing agent into the enclosed room.
US08434685B1 Accessory devices configured to display supplemental content
Described herein are accessory devices that are configured to both perform accessory functions for electronic devices, as well as output content that is supplemental or complementary to content being output by the electronic devices. The accessory functionality of the accessory devices may be far-ranging and may include reading lights, covers, projectors, universal serial bus (USB) drives, cameras, page-turn buttons, audio jacks, expansion headers, Bluetooth devices, biometric sensors, ambient light sensors, and more. These accessory devices may complement the operation of any number of electronic devices. For instance, an accessory device may both comprise a reading light to illuminate a display of an electronic book (eBook) reader device, as well as a display to display content that has been deemed supplemental to the content being displayed by the eBook reader device.
US08434676B2 Banknote handling system
There is provided a banknote handling system including: a reception unit configured to receive a banknote that has been put therein; a recognition unit configured to recognize the banknote that has been received by the reception unit; a storing unit having at least one first cassette configured to store or escrow the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit, and at least one second cassette configured to store the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit; an operation unit configured to receive a deposit-confirmation instruction for the banknote that has been escrowed in the first cassette; and a control unit configured to cause the banknote that has been recognized by the recognition unit to be escrowed in the first cassette and to cause, when the deposit-confirmation instruction is received by the operation unit, the banknote that has been escrowed in the first cassette to be stored in the second cassette.
US08434673B2 Tamper evident enclosure for the storage and transport of documents
An apparatus for storage and transport of documents such as bank notes, visa slips, gift tokens, checks and the like is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a frame spanned by flexible material and a cover plate slideable therealong to close the frame, the cover plate having a leading edge comprising a first member shaped to form an irreversible lock with a correspondingly shaped second member on the frame.
US08434671B1 Manufacturing method of a forged golf club head
A manufacturing method of a forged golf club head has acts of: providing pre-forged strike element and the pre-forged hosel made with different materials, welding the hosel on a connecting end of the strike element, and press-forging the blank to form a main component of the golf club head. The main component of the golf club head may accomplish the golf club head. Otherwise, a pre-forged secondary component is welded on a back part of the strike face of the main component to accomplish the golf club head. The strike element and the hosel made of different materials are directly secured to each other to precisely form a predetermined, shape so that the following surface treating steps and the manufacturing time are reduced and the quality of the golf club head is enhanced.
US08434662B2 Joining method and friction stir welding method
A method of welding that realizes enhancements of airtightness and watertightness at a weld area and a method of welding and method of friction stir welding that attain an enhancement of welding operation efficiency/speed. There is provided a method of welding including the first primary welding step of carrying out a friction stir welding on the abutting portion (J1) of metal members (1,1) from the surface (12) side of metal member (1) and the second primary welding step of carrying out a friction stir welding on the abutting portion (J1) from the reverse face (13) side of the member (1), wherein in the second primary welding step, the friction stir welding is performed while penetrating a stirring pin (B2) of rotation tool (B) in plasticized region (W1) formed in the first primary welding step.
US08434661B2 Friction stir welding tool and process for welding dissimilar materials
A friction stir welding tool and process for lap welding dissimilar materials are detailed. The invention includes a cutter scribe that penetrates and extrudes a first material of a lap weld stack to a preselected depth and further cuts a second material to provide a beneficial geometry defined by a plurality of mechanically interlocking features. The tool backfills the interlocking features generating a lap weld across the length of the interface between the dissimilar materials that enhances the shear strength of the lap weld.
US08434658B2 Joining method and reflow apparatus
A joining method includes melting a hot melt joining material provided between a board and a component to be joined to the board; and reducing the pressure of the ambient atmosphere of the hot melt joining material and tilting the board while the hot melt joining material is in a molten state.
US08434651B2 Pouring member
A pouring member includes an unsealing cap and at least two rotation prevention sections extending vertically and downwardly from an end surface of an open end side of the unsealing cap and is arranged such that the at least two rotation prevention sections are apart from one another by an angle which is larger than a rotation angle required for twisting off the sealing part, and symmetrically with respect to the central axis of the unsealing cap. A recess is formed such that the recess opens to a front end side of the rotation prevention section, and an engagement projection engages the recess in a direction substantially parallel with a direction in which the rotation prevention sections are extended vertically and downwardly, and is formed at a specific position of the flange part of the pouring member.
US08434649B2 Paint can dispenser
A dispenser for a paint container having an access opening. The dispenser includes a main lid which is attachable to the paint can access opening and includes a threaded stem. A flow restrictor is threadably mounted to the threaded stem so that rotation of the flow restrictor relative to the stem axially displaces the flow restrictor along the stem. A turret is rotatably mounted to the main lid and includes a dispensing opening. The turret is mounted to the main lid so that the turret is locked against axial movement but freely rotatable relative to the main lid. The turret includes at least one axially extending slot which slidably receives an outwardly extending tab from the flow restrictor so that rotation of the turret axially displaces the flow restrictor along the stem.
US08434646B2 Mixed beverage dispense system and method
A mixed beverage dispense system and method for pumping a first liquid and a second liquid using a controlled gas source. The dispense system can include a first pump that pumps the first liquid and a second pump that pumps the second liquid. The first pump and the second pump can each include a gas inlet, an inlet gas connection, and an outlet gas connection. The dispense system can also include connector tubing connecting the controlled gas source to the first pump and the second pump in series. The dispense system can include a bag-in-box package with chambers that hold the liquid bags and a fitment with fitment openings open to each one of the chambers for receiving the liquids from the liquid bags. The dispense system can also include an outlet connector coupled to the fitment for receiving the liquids from the fitment.
US08434645B2 Dispensing container with pump fitment
A dispensing container with a fitment, the fitment allows a dispensing pump on the dispensing container to be reused with another container. The container has a fitment secured into the container using a tamper-proof structure with the reusable dispensing pump of a structure to fit into this fitment. The fitment and the container neck are injection molded to maintain the close tolerances for the tamper-proof structure. The fitment has at least one drain aperture and at least one pressure equalization aperture. When the reusable dispensing pump is inserted into the fitment, liquid in the fitment can escape through the drain aperture into the container and pressure in the container is equalized through the pressure equalization aperture. The closure and upper part of the container are both of a conical structure to enhance alignment.
US08434642B2 Method and apparatus for providing a selectable beverage
Methods and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage from a post-mix beverage dispenser are provided. In one embodiment, the method for providing a beverage having a separately selected color from a post-mix beverage dispensing system comprises: (a) providing at least two beverage bases for dispense from the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (b) separately storing at least two colorants in the post-mix beverage dispensing system; (c) receiving a request for a selected beverage base and the separately selected color with a computer processor; and (d) in response to the selection of the selected beverage base and the separately selected color, automatically dispensing through a single faucet of the post-mix beverage dispensing system, continuously in a predetermined ratio for any volume of the beverage dispensed, the selected beverage base and at least one of the colorants to provide the beverage having the separately selected color.
US08434641B2 Medicament dispensing system
A system for storing a plurality of solid objects and dispensing the solid objects into a plurality of containers. The system comprises non-automated dispensing cells, physically actuated to dispense solid objects one at a time into one of the containers, and automated dispensing cells, electrically actuated to dispense solid objects from a holding tank simultaneously in bulk into one of the containers. The automated dispensing cells may independently dispense objects into the holding tank one at a time while a manipulator arm of the system simultaneously brings a container to one of the non-automated or automated dispensing cells. Then, when the manipulator arm brings a container to one of the automated dispensing cells, the solid objects may be dispensed into the container in bulk by simply opening a gate mechanism.
US08434640B2 Release system for container
A release system for releasably securing a container in a closed position is provided. The release system is integrally formed with a container component that is to be applied to a container. The container component is formed with the release system in a first position, which is later moved to a second position.
US08434636B2 Culturing container with filter vents
A culturing container is disclosed having a container base and a container cover with plural vent openings. Plural filter retaining frames are affixed surrounding the vent openings to accommodate filter retention across the vent openings thereby establishing plural integral filter vents in the container cover. Multi-ridge outer peripheries of the container base and the container cover are engageable to provide substantially air-tight container sealing.
US08434635B2 Re-closable can end lid with a rotatable opening and re-sealing tab and drink can equipped with the re-sealable can end lid
Re-closable can end lid with a rotatable opening and re-sealing tab, and drink can equipped with the re-sealable can end lid, wherein a lid plate (2) includes a break-away portion (8) surrounded by a predetermined break-line (9) that is separable from the lid plate by the press portion (21) of an opening tab (20) in an opening position of the tab, so that an aperture (10) is created in the lid plate that is surrounded by a ring-wall (11) on the outside of the predetermined break-line (9). On a grip portion (22) of the opening tab (20), a sealing attachment (25) is formed that, after rotating the opening tab (20) into a closing rotating position, fits into a recess surrounded by the ring-wall and sealingly engages on the inner face of the ring-wall (11) along its outer circumferential sealing rim.
US08434630B2 Merchandising system and method of assembly
A method of assembling a merchandising system includes providing a retail display fixture including first and second ends each supporting the retail display fixture on a floor. The method further includes providing a display fixture accessory releasably secured to the retail display fixture and coupling an accessory sheath to the retail display fixture. The accessory sheath includes two substantially planar panels extending substantially parallel to one another and defining a cavity between the two substantially planar panels, a top panel extending between and coupled to each of the two substantially planar panels, and an open bottom providing access to the cavity. Coupling the accessory sheath to the retail display fixture includes sliding the accessory sheath over the display fixture accessory to substantially enclose the display fixture accessory within the cavity such that the accessory sheath substantially covers an entirety of two opposite sides of the display fixture accessory.
US08434629B2 Adjustable shelving system with overlapping tracks
A track assembly for a shelving system is disclosed that includes at least two tracks. The tracks are configured to slide relative to each other in an overlapping manner. Each track has one or more fastener holes along a longitudinal length of the track and one or more portions protruding outwardly from the track. The one or more protruding portions defining one or more recessed portions on an opposite side of the track, such that at least one protruding portion of one track is configured to be slidably engageable within at least one recessed portion of the other track when the corresponding overlapping fastener holes are aligned. The slidable engagement of the one or more protruding portions of one track within the one or more recessed portions of the other track may thus indicate that the tracks have been slidably positioned relative to each other with their overlapping fastener holes aligned.
US08434628B2 Cover with integral seal
A cover device includes a cover plate having at least one recessed section defining an internal volume. A separating element is inserted in the recessed section and delimits the internal volume. The separating element is configured to permit the internal volume to fluidly communicate through the separating element. At least an edge portion of the cover plate is provided with a sealing element for abutment on an opposing surface of a structure to be sealed by the cover device. The sealing element is disposed at least along an edge of the recessed section and fixedly connects the cover plate with the separating element in a sealed manner.
US08434627B2 Method and device for processing valuable documents
A method and apparatus for processing value documents where the value documents are checked according to certain criteria and sorted in accordance with the results of the check. Those value documents upon whose check an error has occurred are transported to a deposit device having several deposit sections. The faulty value documents of different accounting units are thereby deposited on different deposit sections of the deposit device. For post-processing of the faulty value documents, they are removed from the deposit device by an operator according to the first in, first out principle.
US08434620B2 Bottle shipment packaging and method
A bottle packaging for shipment includes a bottom tray, and a top tray made of molded pulp fiber, such as newspaper pulp, and a cardboard partition support structure disposed between the trays. Cavities formed in the bottom and top trays are arranged to engage both ends of a bottle and include crushable elements that can axially engage each bottle. The support partition may be made of corrugated cardboard material and be arranged such that the cardboard flutes provide support for loads imparted to the sides of the carton when the carton is laying on its side. The partition forms a void surrounding each bottle in the area of its labels. In this way, structural support and cushioning can be provided to the packaged bottles from all directions.
US08434614B2 Storing package unit and a storing method for micro solder spheres
An object of the present invention is to prevent “deteriorations,” such as oxidization and deformation of micro solder spheres during storage.The micro solder spheres are packed in a container 2 comprising an air permeable material. A deoxidizing and drying agent 3 to be disposed externally to the container 2 is provided. The container 2 and the deoxidizing and drying agent 3 are placed in a bag member 4 impermeable to air, and the bag member 4 is sealed in an air-tight condition. Before sealing, the bag member 4 may be air evacuated. A plurality of containers 2 may be held by a holding member 5 such that they are fixed in positions relative to each other.
US08434612B2 Postal sorting machine having a mailpiece recirculation device comprising a cleated belt
The postal sorting machine has sorting outlets in which mailpieces are accumulated, said sorting outlets being disposed in line along a certain longitudinal axis. It further includes a recirculation device for recirculating the mailpieces stored in the sorting outlets, this device comprising a belt (40) mounted to move along the sorting outlets and to which cleats (41, 42) are fastened to define a succession of compartments (4a, 4b, 4c) that face respective ones of the sorting outlets, each compartment being arranged to store, on edge, mailpieces taken from a corresponding sorting outlet.
US08434611B2 System for supplying articles to a platform rotating about a vertical axis
A system for supplying articles to a platform rotating about a vertical axis, the platform exhibiting seatings (K) conformed for receiving corresponding articles (10), vertical axes (B) of which are situated on a circumference (C1) which is coaxial to an axis of the platform (60), the vertical axes (B) being angularly equidistanced such as to define a predetermined operating step (Po). The system comprises: a straight-developing line (50), supplied with articles (10), for intermittently transferring the articles (10) at an intermediate step (Ps) which is lower than the operating step (Po) to a terminal station (Q); at least an article pick-up-and-transfer member (19), interposed between the line (50) and the platform (60), borne by a device (1) activated in phase relation with the movement of the line (50) and platform (60), destined, with an operating head (21) thereof, to engage the article situated at the terminal station (Q) in an inclined direction with respect to the straight development (S) of the line (50), and subsequently to transfer the article to a corresponding seating (K) of the platform (60) in order to define, for the vertical axis (Z) of the article, a trajectory which develops in an arc of circumference (C2) tangential to the circumference (C1) on which the axes (B) of the seatings (K) are arranged and with a peripheral velocity which is equal to a velocity (Vp) of the axes (B).
US08434598B2 Carpet pole carriage assembly
A carpet pole carriage assembly for a lift truck includes a carriage having a front plate and a back plate. The front plate includes a carpet pole receiving opening. A carpet pole retainer is carried on the carriage. A carpet pole retainer includes a first section secured to the front plate about the carpet pole receiving opening and a second section secured to the back plate.
US08434596B2 Lubrication monitoring device and method, and rolling bearing assembly
A lubrication monitoring device monitors a lubricating condition of a lubricator feeding an oil droplet at a predetermined time interval by means of a discharge nozzle having a nozzle orifice. The lubrication monitoring device comprises: a pair of electrodes disposed in the proximity of the nozzle orifice; a capacitance detecting portion for detecting the variation of capacitance between the pair of electrodes, the capacitance varying in conjunction with the varying amount of oil fed from the nozzle orifice to space between the pair of electrodes; and a determination portion for determining whether the oil droplet is fed at the predetermined time interval or not, the determination made based on the detection result supplied from the capacitance detecting portion.
US08434592B1 Mobile tower drive system
A mobile tower drive system for efficiently attaching a removable drive system to a scaffolding unit and driving the scaffolding unit from the work platform. The mobile tower drive system generally includes a lower unit adapted to be secured to a lower end of a scaffolding unit, wherein the lower unit has a wheel to operably engage a floor surface and move between an engaged and disengaged position. The lower unit removably attaches to an upper unit, wherein the upper unit is secured relative the upper frame of the scaffolding unit. Both, the lower unit and the upper unit employ coaxial drives for turning and driving the wheel. The coaxial drive also is used to brake the wheel. The coaxial drives are generally controlled via manually operable rotational control levers; however automated power sources may be utilized. Also disclosed are swivel locks for the caster wheels of the scaffolding unit.
US08434591B2 Acoustic barrier
An acoustic dampening panel comprising: (a) a first layer of expanded polypropylene; (b) a solid layer having a surface weight between 2.4 kilograms per meter squared and 25 kilograms per meter squared; and, (c) a second layer of expanded polypropylene, where the first and second layers of expanded polypropylene sandwich the solid layer therebetween. The acoustic dampening panel may further comprise a fourth layer comprising a metal skin, where the solid layer and the metal skin sandwich the second layer therebetween.
US08434586B2 Sound insulation in a refrigerant circuit
A muffler device for a refrigerant circuit with refrigerant containing refrigerant oil comprises a housing in which an upper muffler chamber and a lower muffler chamber are arranged, whereby the upper muffler chamber has an upper feed opening that can be connected to the refrigerant circuit, and the lower muffler chamber has a lower discharge opening that can be connected to the refrigerant circuit, and whereby a muffler partition is arranged between the upper and lower muffler chambers, said partition having at least one muffling pipe that connects the upper muffler chamber to the lower muffler chamber, and an upper section of said pipe with an upper opening projects into the upper muffler chamber, whereby, at a filling level that exceeds the height of the upper opening, refrigerant oil that has accumulated on the top of the muffler partition can be fed with refrigerant vapor to the lower muffler chamber.
US08434580B2 Utility vehicle with air-intake apparatus for engine
A utility vehicle with an air-intake apparatus for an engine. The air-intake apparatus includes an air-intake duct connected to the engine, the air-intake duct extending in a bonnet chamber, and an air cleaner case connected to an air-intake upstream portion of the air-intake duct. The air cleaner case accommodates a tubular filter element. The air cleaner case is arranged so as to be inclined in the bonnet chamber so that a central axis of the filter element is inclined forward.
US08434577B1 Electronic traveling suitcase
The electronic traveling suitcase includes a self-weighing feature that displays its weight (including contents) in pounds or kilograms, as selected by the user, on an LCD screen. Security features include a lock, which can be digitally programmed. Moreover, a programmable electronic traveler's identity and password are provided for additional security. An electric motor powers wheels disposed on the suitcase. The motor is powered by a rechargeable battery. An infrared remote control allows the user to control the suitcase from a distance. A light ribbon is disposed on the exterior periphery of the suitcase and flashes in a unique pattern to allow the user to find the bags among a plurality of bags. A built-in alarm system is provided and triggers when unauthorized personnel handle the suitcase. The device remotely notifies the user when it is being stolen or tampered with. The unit will shock the unauthorized person or thief.
US08434572B2 Cutting elements for downhole cutting tools
Cutting elements for downhole cutting tools comprise a top surface having a cutting surface portion and a cutting profile asymmetrically disposed across the top surface. The cutting elements comprise first and second longitudinal side surfaces and first and second lateral side surfaces, each having a respective cross-section. The cross-section of one of the longitudinal side surfaces can have one beveled portion and the cross-sections of the other longitudinal side surface and the first and second lateral side surfaces can have two beveled portions. A cutting end of a downhole cutting tool comprises two cutting elements disposed facing each another with a portion of the cutting surface portion of a first cutting element being disposed opposite the cutting profile of the second cutting element and the cutting surface portion of the second cutting element being disposed opposite the cutting profile of the first cutting element.
US08434569B2 Short mud saver for use with top drive or kelly
The short mud saver, which can be used with top drive or rotary table drilling system is housed in a short sub, has a large axial bore for the passage of drilling mud therethrough, a fixed and a movable seal assembly. The movable seal assembly is urged into normally closed position by a stack of Belleville, wave or similar disc stack of springs. The force of the spring stack can be over-ridden by application of sufficient mud pressure from top drive or Kelly to move the moveable seal assembly. Upon application of sufficient mud pressure the movable seal assembly moves downward allowing for flow through the large axial bore. Upon closer of the mud saver a flexible washer associated with fixed seal assembly allows pressure below the mud saver to be relieved to the top of the mud saver, from where return is precluded unless the mud saver is re-opened by application of mud pressure from top drive or Kelly. The short mud saver may be integrated with internal, ball-type blow-out preventer and have a shortened retrievable plug.
US08434566B2 Fastening tool
A power tool for operating on a workpiece, the power tool having a housing and a motor disposed within the housing. A controller is connected to the motor and receives user inputs for turning on the motor and a power tool battery pack is connected to the controller and the motor. At least one light is connected to the controller for illuminating the workpiece. The controller can turn on the light in a predetermined pattern to alert the user to a tool condition, such as the charge level being below a predetermined level.
US08434563B2 Device for cultivating soil or brushing debris
A device for cultivating soil or brushing debris includes a frame supporting a transmission, a motor, and a shaft rotatably supported by a transmission housing and driven by the motor through the transmission. A distal end of the shaft includes a passageway therethrough. A fastener is at least partially received within the passageway. A tine assembly may be removably attached to the shaft and includes a first pair of two laterally spaced-apart tine disks. The first pair of tine disks being laterally positioned on the shaft between the fastener and the housing. A brush attachment may be removably attached, and includes a tube, which has a wheel rotatably attached to a first end thereof and a first gear fixedly attached to an opposing second end thereof. At least a portion of the fastener extends through at least a portion of the tube to fixedly attach the tube to the shaft.
US08434562B2 Ripper operating device
A ripper operating device is configured to perform operations of a ripper of a work vehicle. The ripper operating device includes a support portion, an operating lever, and an operating switch part. The operating lever is supported by the support portion to be movable with respect to the support portion in a first direction to perform a first operation and non-movable in a second direction. The first direction intersects a front-and-rear direction at an intersection point corresponding to a neutral position of the operating lever to form an acute angle with the front-and-rear direction on a rearward-outward side of the intersection point. The second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction and substantially matches with a direction in which a forearm of an operator extends when operating the ripper. The operating switch part is arranged on the operating lever to perform a second operation other than the first operation.
US08434561B2 Controlled hydrostatic pressure completion system
A method of drilling and completing a well can include drilling a section of a wellbore, positioning a perforated shroud in the section of the wellbore, securing the perforated shroud by setting a hanger, and isolating the section of the wellbore from a remainder of the wellbore vertically above the section of the wellbore. The drilling, positioning, securing and isolating steps can be performed while the section of the wellbore is not exposed to a liquid column extending to a surface location. The drilling, positioning, securing and isolating steps can be performed in a single trip of a drill string into the wellbore.
US08434559B2 High strength dissolvable structures for use in a subterranean well
A well tool can include a flow path, and a flow blocking device which selectively prevents flow through the flow path. The device can include an anhydrous boron compound. A method of constructing a downhole well tool can include forming a structure of a solid mass comprising an anhydrous boron compound, and incorporating the structure into the well tool.
US08434556B2 Apparatus and methods for removing mercury from formation effluents
An apparatus and related methods for removing hazardous trace elements from hydrocarbon reservoir effluent is implemented by placing an adsorbing volume of material designed to adsorb the hazardous trace elements into the vicinity of a producing formation face at a downhole location; and letting the reservoir effluent flow through the volume of adsorbing material.
US08434544B2 Die casting process incorporating computerized pattern recognition techniques
A die casting process using pattern recognition techniques to identify those die castings manufactured under conditions likely to produce a die casting which would subsequently prove unacceptable for use. By promptly identifying such die castings, they may be discarded before being shipped to a remote facility for further processing. As a result, the rejection rate of die castings at the remote facility may be reduced and the raw materials used to form the discarded die castings may be more readily recycled.
US08434543B2 Method of making turbine stator airfoils with individual orientations
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a turbine stator component includes a first endwall; a second endwall; a first stator airfoil coupled between the first and second endwalls; and a second stator airfoil adjacent to the first airfoil and coupled between the first and second endwalls. The first stator airfoil has first crystallographic primary and secondary orientations. The second stator airfoil has second crystallographic primary and secondary orientations, the first crystallographic primary and secondary orientations being different from the second crystallographic primary and secondary orientations.
US08434538B2 Bonding apparatus and bonding method
A bonding apparatus has an upper chuck and a lower chuck for holding wafers. The upper chuck is configured such that the center portion is bent to be convex when pressurized with a predetermined pressure. On the bottom surface of the lower chuck, there is an insulating ring formed of a combination of a plurality of insulating members to support the periphery of the lower chuck. The bottom surface of the insulating ring is supported by a support ring formed of a combination of a plurality of supporting members. The supporting members and the lower chuck are fixed by a bolt provided for each of the supporting members. The bolt is inserted through a through hole and a through hole which are formed in the insulating members and the supporting members, respectively, the through holes having a diameter larger than a diameter of the bolt.
US08434530B2 Filler valve unit
A filler valve unit (1) for feeding a preset amount of filling liquid (3) into a container (6) having an outlet (4) for feeding out filling liquid and an outlet (11) for injecting gaseous fluid. The filler valve unit (1) comprises at least one stop element (14) forming a stroke limiter acting on the container (6). According to the invention, the stop element (14) is mobile and moves between at least two operating positions consisting of a first operating position wherein the stop element holds the mouth (5) of a container (6) at a preset distance from the outlet (4) and a second operating position wherein the stop element (14) holds the mouth (5) of the container (6) at a distance from the outlet (4) which is less than the preset distance.
US08434525B2 Noise reducing fluid passageways for fluid flow control devices
Trim disk assemblies for use in fluid flow control devices include a first disk and a second disk. An elongated void is formed in a surface of each of the first disk and the second disk. The second disk is aligned with the first disk to provide fluid communication between the void of the first disk and the void of the second disk, the void of the first disk being offset or staggered from the void of the second disk. The void of the first disk and the void of the second disk at least partially define a fluid passageway having a cross-sectional area characterized by increases and decreases in a cross-sectional area, which define an expansion/contraction mechanism of the fluid passageway.
US08434524B2 Elastic hydraulic accumulator/reservoir system
The invention is a combination accumulator and reservoir which stores energy when the accumulator deforms from its original shape in response to the flow of a pressurized fluid from the reservoir. The stored energy is returned when the fluid flow is reversed and the accumulator discharges the fluid and returns to its original shape. At least one part of the novelty of the invention is that the accumulator and the fluid reservoir reside in the same housing such that the volume of each varies inversely. Accordingly, the invention is more compact and weighs less than conventional accumulators. Another feature of the invention is that fluid is located around the bladder accumulator to lubricate contact between the bladder and sides of the reservoir.
US08434520B2 Valve control unit, particularly pilot control unit for a pressure modulator of a commercial vehicle
A valve control unit, particularly for a pressure modulator of a commercial vehicle includes a valve control housing, solenoid valves, which are provided with solenoids and internal valve pieces inserted into the solenoids, and a pneumatic interface. The solenoids are accommodated inside the valve control housing. Pressure sensors for measuring pneumatic pressures are accommodated in or on the valve control unit, preferably on the top surface. Valve bores, into which the internal valve pieces are inserted, extend within the valve control housing. Air ducts extend between the pneumatic interface, the valve bores, and the pressure sensors, inside the valve control housing. The solenoids and pressure sensors are contacted with an electrical interface. The valve control housing can be a single piece.
US08434514B2 Fluidic control element
A fluidic control element has a housing that is assembled from first and second housing parts. A control space is formed between the housing parts into which two flow ducts open that are located in the first housing part. A sealing seat is arranged in the control space and is assigned to one of the flow ducts. A diaphragm is clamped between the housing parts. An actuating rocker element mounted for pivotal movement in the second housing part is configured with two lever arms, is movable between an opening position and a closing position, and is firmly attached to the diaphragm in an attachment area opposite the sealing seat. The actuating rocker element is provided with supporting areas for the diaphragm that are adjacent to the attachment area.
US08434511B2 Retractable and expandable water cooled valve gate useful for sealing a hot processing chamber
A pendulum gate valve including an expandable gate which pivots when unexpanded to selectively block a vacuum or other pressure-differential passage. The valve includes a valve plate sealing one side of the passage and a ring or barrier plate abutting an opposed side of the passage when the gate member is expanded. A compression spring biases apart the valve plate and ring to close the valve by means of respective two-stage hangers attached thereto, extending along the spring, and having distal ends capturing the spring. Pneumatic pressure applied to a pneumatic cavity formed between the middles of the two-stage hangers and accommodating the spring forces apart the valve plate and ring to open the valve in the blocking position. Thereby if pressure fails, the valve fails to a sealed state. The axially movable valve or barrier plate is advantageously water cooled to allow use with a heated processing chamber.
US08434507B2 Safety valve device, valve apparatus, high-pressure gas tank, and vehicle
A safety valve device has a safety valve body and is configured to open at a temperature of or over a preset reference temperature. The safety valve device also includes a gas flow path arranged to make a flow of hydrogen flowing out of a hydrogen tank via the safety valve body in a valve open position, and a discharge pipe configured to have a hydrogen discharge opening and arranged to discharge the hydrogen flowing through the gas flow path to the outside. The hydrogen discharge opening of the discharge pipe is formed to discharge the hydrogen in an oblique direction relative to a direction of an axial center of the gas flow path. The discharge pipe also has a groove formed to apply an input rotational force to the discharge pipe and thereby rotate the discharge pipe around the axial center of the gas flow path.
US08434498B2 Degradable filter element
A filter material adapted for use as a filter element of a smoking article is provided, the filter material including at least one segment of fibrous tow having a plurality of degradable particles dispersed therein, the degradable particles comprising a starch material. Exemplary starch materials include naturally-occurring starch, hydroxyalkylated starch, starch esters, ionically modified starch, oxidized starch, hydrolyzed starch, plasticized starch, gelatinized starch, grafted starch, crosslinked starch, transglycosylated starch, starch ethers, and mixtures thereof, as well as blends of starch with other polymers. Filter elements and smoking articles, such as cigarettes, that contain the filter material are also provided. A method of preparing polymer fibers for use in filter elements is also provided, the method including adding the starch material to a fiber precursor solution prior to fiber extrusion or dry-blending the starch material with the polymer material to be formed into fibers.
US08434495B2 Tobacco cut filler including metal oxide supported particles
A smoking article composition and a method of making a smoking article composition and an additive, wherein the additive comprises particles anchored to the cut filler by a metal oxide support. The additive can be formed by combining particles and a metal oxide precursor solution with the smoking article composition. The smoking article composition can comprise tobacco cut filler, cigarette paper and/or cigarette filter material.
US08434487B2 Endotracheal cuff and technique for using the same
An inflatable balloon cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. Configurations of these cuffs that include tapered regions with certain characteristics, such as cuff wall diameter and thickness, may provide improved sealing of the trachea.
US08434484B2 Ventilator Respiratory Variable-Sized Gas Accumulator
This disclosure describes systems and methods for ventilating a patient with a system that includes an accumulator for storing a gas mixture. The disclosure further describes a novel approach for a fast delivery of a change in gas mixture to a patient by utilizing a variable-sized accumulator.
US08434483B2 Ventilator respiratory gas accumulator with sampling chamber
This disclosure describes systems and methods for ventilating a patient with a system that includes an accumulator for storing a gas mixture. The disclosure describes a novel approach for determining the concentrations of gas found in the accumulator by utilizing a sampling chamber. The disclosure further describes a novel approach for a fast delivery of a change in gas mixture to a patient by utilizing a variable-sized accumulator. This disclosure also describes systems and methods for ventilating a patient with a system that includes an accumulator located away from the flow path that reduces/eliminates pockets of an undesirable gas mixture from entering the gas flow path and reaching the patient after a gas mixture change by utilizing at least one of a dip-tube, a purge valve, and a variable size accumulator.
US08434482B2 Closed loop control system for a high frequency oscillation ventilator
A control system for a high frequency oscillating ventilator (HFOV) includes an oscillator controller and a mean airway pressure (MAP) controller. The HFOV includes a reciprocating piston which is adapted to generate positive and negative pressure waves for delivery to a patient airway. The oscillator controller comprises a pair of closed loop control circuits including an oscillator pressure loop and a centering loop which are collectively adapted to regulate frequency and amplitude of piston reciprocations and centering of the piston. The MAP controller comprises a closed loop control circuit that is adapted for regulating MAP at the patient utilizing feedback in the form of patient circuit pressure. Likewise, the oscillator controller utilizes patient circuit pressure as well as piston displacement feedback in order to regulate movement of the piston.
US08434478B2 Aerosol inhalator
An aerosol inhalator has an aerosol generation passage extending from an ambient air inlet (2) to a mouthpiece (4), a liquid supply device (18) for feeding a predetermined amount of a solution to a feed position (A) in the passage (6), a ceramic heater (12) for heating the solution conveyed from the feed position (A) toward the mouthpiece (4) with a drawn-in flow of air created in the passage (6) by a user's sucking action, thereby causing the solution to evaporate and turn into an aerosol in the passage (6), and a protector provided at least either at a location near the feed position (A) or at a location between the feed position (A) and the liquid supply device (18), the protector having at least one of a radiation cover (2), a cooling device (21) and an open-close valve (22).
US08434475B2 Nitric oxide reactor and distributor apparatus and method
A reaction and distribution system may include a distributor securable near or in a path correspond to a breathing passage such as the nostrils or the mouth of a user for delivering nitric oxide therapy thereto. The distributor may contain an internal reactor for creating the nitric oxide from reactants. Alternative embodiments may rely on a line delivering nitric oxide to the distributor from a remote generator such as a cannister carried in a pocket or placed/at the bedside of a user.
US08434472B2 Solar collector with non-honey sandwich core
An apparatus is provided for the collection and conversion of light energy. The apparatus includes, a sandwich core structure, a collector element and a concentrator including one or more reflector elements and positioned at an exterior surface of the sandwich core structure.
US08434470B2 Adjustable burn apparatus
An adjustable burn apparatus for a fireplace using a liquid or gel-type fuel. The apparatus includes an elongate housing with an elongate top opening into which an elongate removable fuel container is inserted. The removable fuel container has an elongate open top of a length approximating the length of the elongate housing, and an elongate cover which is hinged to the housing preferably along its long dimension and has an elongate flame opening. The hinged cover itself has a shutter slidably secured at its lower surface that is movable along positions opening, controlling and closing the flame opening.
US08434467B2 Detachable quiver assembly for archery bows
A quiver assembly for detachable connection to an archery bow includes a mounting base connectable to an archery bow and a quiver releasably connectable to the mounting base. The mounting base includes a base portion and a first clip portion extending from the base portion. The quiver is adapted to hold at least one arrow and includes a rail with a first longitudinally extending edge that cooperates with the first clip portion during rotation of the rail with respect to the mounting base for releasably connecting the quiver to the mounting base.
US08434464B1 Arrow rest for an archery bow
An arrow rest for supporting an arrow with respect to an archery bow having a string assembly that includes a bow string. The arrow rest includes a pair of arms, a drive mechanism and a release mechanism. The pair of arms is moveable in unison between a raised position, wherein the arms are adapted to support the arrow, and a lowered position, wherein the arms are adapted to release the arrow. The drive mechanism is operable to selectively bias the pair of arms toward the lowered position. The drive mechanism is operatively connected to the string assembly of the bow, wherein release of the bow string from a drawn position causes the drive mechanism to move the arms from the raised position to the lowered position. The return mechanism is operable to move the arms from the lowered position to the raised position subsequent to movement of the arms from the raised position to the lowered position by the drive mechanism.
US08434463B2 Multi-position draw weight crossbow
A crossbow may include a main beam: (a) a bow assembly including a bow and a bow string adapted to propel an arrow; (b) a trigger mechanism mounted to the main beam; (c) and a bow assembly mounting apparatus for use in selectively mounting the bow assembly at a first location on the main beam to provide a first draw weight and for use in selectively mounting the bow assembly to a second location on the main beam to provide a second draw weight that is substantially different from the first draw weight.
US08434461B2 Method and system for fuel vapor control
Methods and systems are provided for operating a fuel vapor recovery system having a fuel tank isolation valve coupled between a fuel tank and a canister. Fuel vapors are purged from the fuel tank to a canister buffer over a plurality of purge pulses. The pulses are adjusted based on the buffer capacity, a purge flow rate, and a fuel tank pressure to improve control of canister loading and reduce air-to-fuel ratio disturbances.
US08434460B2 Integrally molded carbon canister
An integrally molded carbon canister is provided. The integrally molded carbon canister includes a housing including four external side walls and an upper portion at least partially enclosing an internal cavity connected to a vapor inlet and outlet port, the upper portion including a depressed flow disruptor positioned rearward of an injection gate, and a first and second projected flow channel positioned adjacent to the injection gate and laterally spanning the housing. The depressed flow disruptor has a thickness that is less than a section of the upper portion surrounding the depressed flow disruptor and the projected flow channels have a thickness that is greater than a section of the upper portion surrounding the projected flow channels.
US08434453B2 Electronic throttle control system and method
An electronic throttle control system and method are provided. The system includes a throttle valve, a motor configured to drive the throttle valve, and a throttle position sensor configured to detect an angle of the throttle valve. The system further includes an engine rotating speed detector, and a controller. The controller is configured to drive the motor to control the angle of the throttle valve. The controller is configured to initially set a lower limit value of the angle to an angle which is greater than a full closure angle of the throttle valve by a predetermined amount. The controller is further configured to, when a rise in an engine rotating speed is detected, re-set the lower limit value to reduce it by a predetermined amount to control the engine rotating speed to within a predetermined value from the preset idle speed.
US08434448B2 Lubrication structure of cranking rotational force transmission mechanism for internal combustion engine
The lubricant-return holes are provided in the intermediate portion of the ring gear. Thus, the lubricant stagnating above the first oil sealing member can be easily discharged to the oil pan side via the lubricant-return holes even when the ring gear has stopped rotating in response to the starter motor being turned off after completion of the start of the internal combustion engine. As such, the level of the surface of lubricant stagnating between the ring gear and the outer race member does not rise, and therefore the lubricant surface virtually does not reach the outer race and the one-way clutch that are rotating while the internal combustion engine is running. Thus, bubbling of lubricant and production of sludge, which may otherwise be caused by agitation of the lubricant surface, can be prevented.
US08434446B2 Air intake device for multi-cylinder internal combustion engine
An air intake device 40 comprises: a surge tank 44 having an upper tank chamber 50, a lower tank chamber 52, and a communication portion 56; a first intake pipe 46 having communication with the upper tank chamber 50; a second intake pipe 48 having communication with the lower tank chamber 52; and a valve 58 disposed in the lower tank chamber 52, the valve 58 being displaced between a closed position, in which an internal space of the lower tank chamber 52 is divided into a main space 60 having communication with the second intake pipe 48 and a sub-space 62 facing the communication portion 56, and an open position, in which the main space 60 and the sub-space 62 are integrated with each other.
US08434444B2 Engine with an automatic choke and method of operating an automatic choke for an engine
A method of controlling a choke valve of an engine with a controller is disclosed. Also disclosed is an automatic choke performing the method, an engine having the automatic choke, and an apparatus having the engine. The controller includes an electronic circuit, such as a programmable device, and is coupled to a temperature sensor and a motor. The method includes determining a temperature value using the temperature sensor, determining a time period to hold the choke valve in a first position, keeping the choke valve at the first position for the time period, moving the choke valve from the first position toward a second position using the motor, determining a count to hold the choke valve, keeping the choke valve at the second position for the count, and moving the choke valve from the second position toward a fully open position.
US08434443B2 Igniter system for igniting fuel
This invention provides a corona discharge fuel igniter system and methods for igniting fuel in an internal combustion engine. A ceramic dielectric material is provided that significantly increases the efficiency of corona discharge to ignite the fuel in an internal combustion engine.
US08434442B2 Glow plug engine
The object of the present invention is to provide a glow-plug engine capable of achieving suitable operation using a glow plug even for various kinds of fuel other than special alcohol based fuel. The end section of a glow plug protrudes inside a combustion chamber and is located in a specified area near the top surface 53a of piston when located at the top dead center. By doing so, it is possible to achieve suitable operation (combustion) using a glow plug even for various kinds of fuel other than special alcohol based fuels.
US08434440B2 Switchable finger lever
A switchable finger lever for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, said finger lever comprising an inner lever comprising on an underside on one end, a support for a gas exchange valve and on another end, a contact surface for a head of a support element, said inner lever being flanked by outer arms which are articulated for pivoting relative to the inner lever on a side of the one end, at least each of said outer arms comprising on an upper side, a cam contacting surface, said inner lever comprising directly next to the contact surface a coupling device for an optional connection of the outer arms to the inner lever, said coupling device comprising a cross-bore in which two coupling slides are arranged diametrically opposite each other, which coupling slides for effecting coupling engage partially in or under an entraining surface arranged on the respective outer arm ending in this region, and the at least one restoring spring being likewise arranged in the region of the another end while being clamped between the inner lever and the outer arms.
US08434439B2 Clutch or brake in or at a gearbox
A clutch or brake with an electrically actuated switching coil and an armature that axially moves toward the switching coil and forms a connection with the switching coil and can rotate relative to the switching coil, in an adjustment system for camshafts of a combustion engine. A superposition transmission has an input driven by a crankshaft of the engine, a drive output element that drives a camshaft of the engine and a control element, by which relative rotation between the input and the output can be produced by applying a braking torque. The armature is rotationally fixed and axially slidable, and centered on or at a transmission component, and the switching coil is rotationally fixed and centered coaxially with the armature by a membrane spring on a further transmission component, relative to which the armature is braked or to which the armature is coupled.
US08434438B2 Camshaft adjuster
A camshaft adjuster for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, including a stator which can be driven by a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine and is located radially on the outside, a rotor which is non-rotatably connected to a camshaft and located radially on the inside, working chambers which are disposed between the rotor and stator and can be subjected to a pressure such that the rotational position of the rotor relative to the stator can be varied, and at least one sealing cover which laterally delimits the working chambers and rests against the stator and/or rotor. The sealing cover, stator and/or rotor have a convex, concave or conical contact surface, and the sealing cover can be elastically deformed by the attachment via the contact surface such that it rests against the stator and/or rotor with an increased sealing force as a result of elastic deformation.
US08434436B2 Electronically actuated valve system
An electronically actuated valve assembly for an internal combustion engine is disclosed, wherein the valve assembly comprises a valve stem, and a plurality of shape memory alloy segments in operative communication with the valve stem, wherein each shape memory alloy segment is individually actuatable, and wherein actuation of different shape memory alloy segments is configured to cause different valve lifts.
US08434435B2 Variable compression ratio system for internal combustion engines and method of varying compression ratio
A system for adjusting a compression ratio of an internal combustion engine, includes a piston position adjusting mechanism having a lever pivotably mounted on each of the connecting rods, adapted and configured to pivot when actuated, a cam, rotatably mounted with respect to each of one or more pistons and respective connecting rods, adapted and configured to maintain, at any moment, one of a plurality of spacings therebetween, rotation of the cam by a preselected angle causing a change in relative spacing between the head of the respective piston and small end of the connecting rod. The trigger is adapted and configured to cause pivoting of the lever, engagement between the cam and the lever, and rotation of the cam by the preselected angle.
US08434432B2 Cooling system for internal combustion engines
A cooling system is provided for an internal combustion engine that includes, but is not limited to an engine coolant circuit having a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet, a radiator having an inlet and an outlet, a first pipeline for hydraulically connecting the radiator outlet and the engine coolant inlet, a second pipeline for hydraulically connecting the engine coolant outlet to the radiator inlet, a coolant pump located in the first pipeline for moving a coolant towards the engine coolant inlet, a thermostatic valve located in the first pipeline between the primary pump and the radiator outlet, for closing or at least partially opening the passageway, a bypass pipeline for hydraulically connecting an intermediate point of the second pipeline to an intermediate point of the first pipeline, the latter being located between the thermostatic valve and the radiator outlet, an exhaust gas recirculation cooler located in the bypass pipeline, an auxiliary coolant pump located in the bypass pipeline, and a controlling for controlling the auxiliary coolant pump.
US08434429B2 Pet leash assemblies, pet collar assemblies, and methods of using the same
Pet leash assemblies, pet collar assemblies, and methods of using the same. Pet leash assemblies include a tether and a gated clasp coupled to the tether. The gated clasp includes a body, a gate hinged to the body, and a biasing member that pivotally biases the gated clasp to a closed configuration. The gate may include a projection that extends away from the body. When the projection is urged toward a terminal region of the body, the gate is pivoted against a bias of the biasing member and the gated clasp is configured to an open configuration, in which a coupling ring of a collar may be inserted into and removed from a passage defined between the gate and the body. The clasp may include a sliding actuator with a gate-engagement surface positioned to engage and pivot the gate against its bias when the actuator is translated toward the gate.
US08434428B2 Animal exercise system in the form of a game
An animal exercise system in the form of a game includes an apparatus comprising an animal transport device; a game board; a plurality of edible game pieces in the form of a treat. In operation, the animal transport device engages and travels along the game board to selectively contact the game pieces. One or more of the game pieces may be fed to the animal as a reward.
US08434426B2 Pet toilet
A pet toilet providing a system where waste is “flushed” into a removable waste reservoir to eliminate waste and pet odors. The pet toilet can include a concave basin, a grating system, a removable water reservoir, and one or more flush tubes. The concave basin can be removably coupled to supporting legs, and can include a drainage hole. The grating system can include one or more grating sections disposed on the concave basin. The removable waste reservoir can be positioned beneath the concave basin and can include an opening aligned with the drainage hole of the concave basin. The removable water reservoir can be connected to one or more flush tubes via a valve. At least one of the one or more flush tubes can be coupled to the concave basin to expel water directly into the concave basin.
US08434422B2 Coating apparatus and method
The present invention generally relates to a coating apparatus and method for substantially simultaneously forming a plurality of coatings on a substrate and to a method of analyzing at least one characteristic or property of the coatings.
US08434421B2 Manually settable tamper resistant indicator device
A manually settable, tamper resistant indicator device suitable for use in medical and other professions, and a method for operating the device, are disclosed. An indicia member is manually moved relative to a pointer member, in setting the indicator device to display selected indicia at a pointing area. The displayed information is locked by fixing the indicia member relative to the pointer member, using a tamper resistant locking member. A fastening device, which may be tamper resistant, is used for attaching the indicator device to an article, which may be a medical device attached to a medical patient. The indicator device may be sterilized. In a medical setting, the displayed information may include a day, a date, a usage count or a personnel identifier. In one example, the indicia member has a plurality of sliding strips, each sliding strip being mounted to the pointer member and independently movable.
US08434414B2 Multi-directional mobile robotic cell
Disclosed is a mobile robotic arm workcell. A robotic arm is mounted on a superstructure that carries all the equipment associated with the workcell's task. Thus, the workcell is self-contained needing only power. The workcell may be moved by activating air bearings that are pressurized by an air compressor that is also mounted on the superstructure. Power is received via power contacts that engage a power rail. Guidance is provided a guide system. The guide system may include guide rails engaged by guide carriages. Propulsion is provided by a drive system that may engage the guide system or the factory floor.
US08434412B2 Launchable unit
A launchable unit including a warhead for generating non-nuclear electro magnetic pulses and a thermobaric warhead without dangerous fragments. The warheads in combination are arranged to operate in different modes dependent on target types and/or objectives with engagement controlled by the aiming and setting of the weapon by a gunner.
US08434403B1 Popcorn popper
This disclosure relates to the field of stovetop popcorn poppers, with an interoperating apparatus to facilitate the mixing or stirring of the popped popcorn during a coating or flavoring operation.
US08434401B2 Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatus
Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.
US08434399B2 Oilfield equipment composed of a base material reinforced with a composite material
Oilfield equipment is provided that includes a base material less subject to abrasion, corrosion, erosion and/or wet fatigue than conventional oilfield equipment materials such as carbon steel, and a reinforcing composite material for adding stress resistance and reduced weight to the oilfield equipment.
US08434394B1 Apparatus for adapting a rocket-assisted projectile for launch from a smooth bore tube
An apparatus for adapting a rocket-assisted artillery projectile of a first caliber for firing from a smooth bore tube of a second caliber may include an adapter for connecting to an aft end of the rocket-assisted artillery projectile. The adapter may include a main channel for receiving rocket exhaust, a plurality of sub-channels that lead from the main channel to an exterior of the adapter, and an ignition channel that leads from the main channel to an ignition delay disposed in the adapter. A tail boom may be fixed to an aft end of the adapter. The tail boom may include an opening in a fore end that communicates with the ignition delay in the adapter. Lifting surfaces, such as fins, may be attached to the tail boom.
US08434393B2 Branched stent/graft and method of fabrication
Branched braided stent or graft devices and processes for fabrication of the devices are disclosed in which a trunk portion and two hinge leg portions are fabricated in one piece braided from a single plurality of filaments, whereby the legs contain the full plurality of filaments and the trunk portion contains a subset of the same plurality of filaments. The fabrication process involves braiding the hinged legs on a mandrel while retaining loops of filament between the hinged leg portions for subsequent braiding of the trunk portion of the stent or graft.
US08434390B2 Flexible threading system
A wrench has a socket defined by a plurality of flat faces and a handle. A first threading tool is provided having a shape and dimension to fit into the socket. An adapter that retains a second threading tool includes a connector having the same shape and the dimension as the first threading tool that fits into the socket. A retaining member is rotatably mounted to the body for movement between a first position and a second position for locking the adapter and the die in the socket. The retaining member has a second plurality of flat faces defining an opening where the second plurality of faces are coextensive with the faces of the socket when the retaining member is in the first position and are offset from the faces of the socket when the retaining member is in the second position.
US08434388B2 Interchangeable bottle opener with bottle cap receptacle
The present invention describes a novelty, mountable bottle opening device configured to display an interchangeable, theme-based display panel upon a vertical surface. The mountable bottle opening device includes a support base structure, an intermediate connecting element, an interchangeable decorative overlay panel, a bottle cap removal device, a bottle cap disposal receptacle, and at least one decorative cover. Many of the elements are interchangeable and provide for displaying unlimited and diverse themes. As the device is used to remove a bottle cap, the user perceives an audio message, visual message and/or mechanical event.
US08434385B2 Pedal device with function of adjusting pedal effort and hysteresis
A pedal device which can alleviate fatigue of a driver's ankle due to frequent acceleration by varying the amount of reaction force applied when the driver presses and releases a pedal by adjusting a pre-compression force against a return spring disposed at a hinged portion of a pedal arm and adjusting a friction force on a pivot end of the pedal arm. The pedal device includes a housing fixed to a car body, an arm hinged to the housing, an elastic member disposed at the hinged portion between the housing and the pedal arm, a pedal effort adjusting unit disposed at the pedal arm and pressing an end of the elastic member, and a hysteresis adjusting unit movably disposed at the housing to press a pivot end of the pedal arm and adjusting the amount of change in stroke-to-pedal effort when the pedal arm operates.
US08434382B2 Speed adjusting device of a speed changer
A speed adjusting device of a speed changer being used in a middle speed changer and a rear speed changer of a bicycle, and contains: a base including a first hole fixed on a central portion thereof to insert a first central spindle, and a holder and a fitting member both of which extend from a front end of the base to connect with an adjusting loop, and the fitting member including a ring member fitted thereon; an adjusting loop including a plurality of first screw bores to lock a front cover and a second hole disposed on a central position thereof to receive the first ratchet, the first actuating lever, the ring member, and the hook, the second hole including a groove fixed at a suitable position of an outer side thereof; a front cover including a first orifice formed on a central portion thereof to insert a first screw.
US08434374B2 Sub-threshold forced plate FET sensor for sensing inertial displacements, a method and system thereof
The present invention relates to a Sub-threshold Field Effect Transistor (SF-FET). The invention integrates a MEMS mechanical transducer along with the sensing mechanism in a single device. Forced mass is capacitively coupled onto the FET structure. Dielectric SiO2 forms good interface with underlying silicon substrate. Air dielectric forms second dielectric wherein effective gate capacitance is the series combination of the second dielectric capacitance and fixed dielectric. Inertial displacements are sensed by observing change in drain current (ID) of the sensor due to change in gap height (TGap) of the second dielectric of the sensor caused by forced mass.
US08434368B2 Measuring apparatus and method for manufacturing the measuring apparatus
An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring a physical and/or chemical, measured variable of a medium, including a housing, especially an elongated housing, and a sensor arranged in the housing. The sensor serves for registering the measured variable, wherein the housing has at least one opening, through which the sensor comes in contact with the medium. The housing has a first housing section, in which the sensor and a sensor electronics are arranged. The sensor electronics is arranged on a first carrier element. The sensor electronics serves for changing the measured variable into an analog electrical signal. An insert is applied in the first housing section, in which the sensor electronics is arranged. The insert is tubular.
US08434366B2 Active detection techniques for photoacoustic sensors
Traditional photoacoustic sensors generally operate in a passive mode, which can degrade the performance. Here, however, a photoacoustic sensor has been disclosed that operates an acoustic resonance chamber and a transducer in an active mode so as to avoid the problems associated with traditional photoacoustic sensors; in particular, because the acoustic resonance chamber operates at near atmospheric pressure such as 100's Torr as opposed to 1 m Torr type of pressure for radio spectroscopy, the sensor is allowed to be scaled to operate on an integrated circuit or IC.
US08434361B2 Sensor component
A leadthrough with a sensor section comprising a component section or tube section with a component wall thickness or tube wall thickness and least one sensor section for accommodating a sensor with a sensor wall thickness. The leadthrough with a sensor section is characterized in that the sensor wall thickness is smaller than half the component wall thickness or the tube wall thickness.
US08434355B1 High pressure high temperature linear swell meter
A method and apparatus for monitoring swelling changes consists of a cylindrical cell assembly (80) capable of withstanding high pressure and high temperature with a wafer holder (48) containing a wafer (42) of solid sample. A sensor rod (56) moves in response to expansion or contraction of the sample wafer (42) and its movement is measured by either an LVDT sensor (66) or a magnetometer (116). Heat is provided via a heater (30) and pressure is controlled via a pressurization inlet (16) or pressurization fluid (68).
US08434347B2 Synthetic materials for PDC cutter testing or for testing other superhard materials
A target cylinder and a method for testing a superhard component thereon. The target cylinder includes a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending from the first end to the second end. At least one of the second end and the sidewall is an exposed portion that makes contact with the superhard component to determine at least one property of the superhard component. The exposed portion comprises at least one synthetic material having at least one of a compressive strength raging from about 12 kpsi to about 30 kpsi, an abrasiveness ranging from about 1 Cerchars to about 6 Cerchars, and an iron content ranging from about 5 percent to about 10 percent. Optionally, the exposed portion further comprises a second material interveningly positioned between or within the synthetic material in a predetermined and repeatable pattern.
US08434346B2 Synthetic materials for PDC cutter testing or for testing other superhard materials
A target cylinder and a method for testing a superhard component thereon. The target cylinder includes a first end, a second end, and a sidewall extending from the first end to the second end. At least one of the second end and the sidewall is an exposed portion that makes contact with the superhard component to determine at least one property of the superhard component. The exposed portion comprises at least one synthetic material having at least one of a compressive strength raging from about 12 kpsi to about 30 kpsi, an abrasiveness ranging from about 1 Cerchars to about 6 Cerchars, and an iron content ranging from about 5 percent to about 10 percent. Optionally, the exposed portion further comprises a second material interveningly positioned between or within the synthetic material in a predetermined and repeatable pattern.
US08434339B2 Pressing device for bending
The present invention provides a pressing device for bending, in which a pipe is held between a bending die having a shape corresponding to a shape of bending and a clamping die revolvable around the bending die, and, when the pipe is bent by revolving the clamping die around the bending die, an axial compression force is applied to the pipe. The pressing device for bending includes a movable table arranged movable in an axial direction of the pipe, a first cylinder provided to the movable table and able to press a rear end of the pipe, and a second cylinder provided to the movable table and able to press a fixed side in a direction opposite to a direction in which the first cylinder presses the pipe.
US08434337B2 Method and apparatus for bending a guide post used in forming a template for locating a dental implant hole
An apparatus and method for bending a guide post used in forming a template for locating dental implant hole. The guide post includes at least one face on a distal end for registering the orientation of the guide post. The apparatus includes a base plate having protractor-like indicia, a supporting block attached to the base plate, the supporting block having an aperture for receiving a distal end of the guide post, and a stylus received by a proximal end of the guide post, the stylus extending towards the protractor-like indicia.
US08434335B2 Combination door latch and deadbolt assembly
A combination door latch and deadbolt assembly that has first and second configurations for use with a door having a deadbolt aperture and a latchbolt aperture spaced by either a first vertical distance or a second vertical distance. The second vertical distance is less than the first vertical distance. In the first configuration, an insert slide is connected to an interconnect slide for vertical movement with the interconnect slide and the interconnect slide is operably connected to a deadbolt assembly via the insert slide. The insert slide and interconnect slide are movable vertically to move a deadbolt from an extended position to a retracted position in response to movement of an interior actuator from a first position to a second position. In the second configuration, the interconnect slide is operably connected to the deadbolt assembly without the insert slide.
US08434334B2 Drum-type washing machine and bearing housing structure thereof
A drum type washing machine including a tub installed in a cabinet is disclosed. The drum type washing machine includes a drum performing washing, a motor rotating the drum, bearing housings having bearings to support a rotation shaft, a suspension connected to the bearing housings and the cabinet to mitigate vibration generated during rotation of the drum, a bracket installed to the bearing housings to form the rear side of the tub, and a gasket installed between the bracket and the tub to seal the tub and to prevent vibration from being transmitted from the bracket to the tub. Volumes of the tub and the drum can be easily increased without increasing the volume of the cabinet. Even when the volume of the washing machine is changed, only one of the tub and the bearing housings, which is not applicable to the drum type washing machine having the changed washing capacity, is selectively replaced. Thus parts can commonly used in various drum type washing machine having different volume.
US08434332B2 Rotary sinker, knitting machine and knitting machine control apparatus
The present invention provides a rotary sinker capable of suppressing energy loss and achieving reduction in the driving load, a knitting machine provided with the rotary sinker, and a knitting machine control apparatus. The sinker 3 comprises a rotating body 4 that can rotate about an axis, and supporting members 32, 34 which rotatably support the rotating body 4. A circumference edge portion of the rotating body 4 is provided with sinker teeth 41 formed of a plurality of projecting sections to which rotational drive force is transmitted and with which a knitting yarn can be engaged.
US08434329B2 Apparatus for use in the glass industry and method for processing molten glass
Apparatus, which is suitable for being surrounded by molten glass, the apparatus having a shank which has at least one at least partially seamless tube consisting of an oxide dispersion-strengthened PGM material, the shank having at least one thickened portion on which an actuating device is arranged.
US08434325B2 Liquefied natural gas and hydrocarbon gas processing
A process for the recovery of heavier hydrocarbons from a liquefied natural gas (LNG) stream and a hydrocarbon gas stream is disclosed. The LNG feed stream is heated to vaporize at least part of it, then expanded and supplied to a fractionation column at a first mid-column feed position. The gas stream is expanded and cooled, then supplied to the column at a second mid-column feed position. A distillation vapor stream is withdrawn from the fractionation column below the mid-column feed positions and directed in heat exchange relation with the LNG feed stream, cooling the distillation vapor stream as it supplies at least part of the heating of the LNG feed stream. The distillation vapor stream is cooled sufficiently to condense at least a part of it, forming a condensed stream. At least a portion of the condensed stream is directed to the fractionation column as its top feed. A portion of the column overhead stream is also directed in heat exchange relation with the LNG feed stream, so that it also supplies at least part of the heating of the LNG feed stream as it is condensed to form a “lean” LNG stream. The quantities and temperatures of the feeds to the column are effective to maintain the column overhead temperature at a temperature whereby the major portion of the desired components is recovered in the bottom liquid product from the column.
US08434321B2 Ice making assembly for refrigerator and method for controlling the same
An ice making assembly for a refrigerator and a method for controlling the ice making assembly are provided. The ice making assembly and the method of controlling the ice making assembly provides a constant amount of water supply for each ice making cycle regardless of environmental conditions such as the varying water supply pressure of different installation locations. Furthermore, overflowing can be prevented during water supply with the use of a capacitance water level sensor.
US08434317B2 Anti-sweat heater demand supply module using temperature and humidity control
A refrigerated appliance such as a refrigerator receives a demand response signal indicating a peak demand period and operates the refrigerator in an energy savings mode by disabling an anti-sweat heater. Sensors monitor ambient temperature and humidity, and the dry bulb temperature of a preselected region where incipient moisture would likely form. Data from the sensors is sent to a controller which calculates ambient dew point and compares the dry bulb temperature of the preselected region with the calculated dew point to enable the anti-sweat heater during the peak demand period and prevent incipient formation of moisture.
US08434316B2 Compressor inlet pressure estimation apparatus for refrigeration cycle system
A compressor inlet pressure estimation apparatus for a refrigeration cycle system is disclosed. An electronic control unit 14 answers YES by judging that the command to start a compressor 2 is issued when an air-conditioning switch is turned on in step S100. After that, the electronic control unit 14 answers NO in the case where a timer count time Tc is shorter than a predetermined time T1 in step S120. At the same time, Tefin_C is set to 15° C. in step S130. The lower one of Tefin_C and Tefin determined in this way is determined as Tefin_d (step S150). After that, Tefin_d is input to the first-order lag function to acquire Tefin_AD(N). Then, the control proceeds to step S170, where the estimated value Ps_es(N) of the refrigerant inlet pressure of the compressor 2 is determined using Tefin_AD(N) and Gr.
US08434313B2 Thermal machine
A thermal machine, especially a gas turbine, includes an annular combustor which is outwardly delimited by an outer shell and an inner shell (33) and through which a hot gas axially flows. The outer shell and inner shell (33) are each provided with a concentric cooling shroud (31) which is attached at a distance on their outer side, forming a cooling passage (32) through which cooling passage (32) cooling air flows in a direction which is opposite to the hot gas flow. The cooling of the combustor is improved by at least one of the cooling shrouds (31), on the side on which the cooling air enters the cooling passage (32), having an outwardly curved, rounded inlet edge (37) for improving the inflow conditions.
US08434312B2 Gas turbine with improved part load emissions behavior
In a method for the low-CO emissions part load operation of a gas turbine with sequential combustion, the air ratio (λ) of the operative burners (9) of the second combustor (15) is kept below a maximum air ratio (λmax) at part load In order to reduce the maximum air ratio (λ), a series of modifications in the operating concept of the gas turbine are carried out individually or in combination. One modification is an opening of the row of variable compressor inlet guide vanes (14) before engaging the second combustor (15). For engaging the second combustor, the row of variable compressor inlet guide vanes (14) is quickly closed and fuel is introduced in a synchronized manner into the burner (9) of the second combustor (15). A further modification is the deactivating of individual burners (9) at part load.
US08434311B2 System for controlling a combustion process for a gas turbine
A system for controlling NOx emissions and combustion pulsation levels of a gas turbine having a gas turbine combustion system, having a single combustion chamber and multiple burners, includes a cascade structure having a first and second control level (1, 2), the first level (1) having a device to control NOx emissions and generate combustion pulsation target levels based on the difference between measured and target NOx emission levels, and the second level (2) having a device to control pulsation levels and generate a ratio (γ) of fuel flow to different types of burners or to different stages of each burner. The fuel flow ratio (γ) is based on the difference between the measured and generated target pulsation levels. The control system enables the operation of a gas turbine to meet NOx emission requirements, while maintaining combustion pulsation levels within limits that ensure improved lifetime of the combustion system.
US08434306B2 Vehicular engine having turbocharger and vehicle including same
An engine comprises an intake manifold, first and second cylinder banks, a turbocharger, a flow passage, and first and second cylinder banks. The first and second cylinder banks are each in fluid communication with a respective output of the intake manifold. The turbocharger is associated with the second cylinder bank and includes a compressor input port and a compressor output port. The flow passage is in fluid communication with each of the compressor output port and an input of the intake manifold.
US08434304B2 Cylinder apparatus
A cup seal 21 includes a base portion 21a disposed on a cylinder bore opening portion side of a seal groove, and an inner lip portion 21b extended from an inner circumferential side of the base portion toward a cylinder bore bottom portion and having an inner circumferential surface slidably abutting against an outer circumferential surface of a piston. In a state where the cup seal 21 is fitted into the seal groove and a plunger 19 is inserted into a cylinder bore 12, an abutting force maximum portion 21m where an abutting force against the plunger 19 becomes maximum within an inner circumferential surface of the cup seal 21 is provided on an end portion on the cylinder bore opening portion side of an inner circumferential surface part of the base portion 21a.
US08434303B2 Driving device made of shape-memory alloy
A storing section (70) stores a second initial contact instruction value, which is predefined as an instruction value for positioning a movable portion (5) to a second contact position where the movable portion (5) is contacted with a stopper (8), and an initial standby instruction value, which is predefined as an instruction value for positioning the movable portion (5) to a specified standby position within a moving range of the movable portion (5). A correcting section (42) calculates an actual standby instruction value by correcting the initial standby instruction value, based on a second actual contact instruction value obtained when a contact detection section (41) has detected that the movable portion (5) is positioned to the second contact position, and the second initial contact instruction value. A setting section (43) sets a standby position corresponding to the actual standby instruction value, as an actual standby position of the movable portion (5).
US08434302B2 Hydraulic system including open loop and closed loop valve control schemes
An exemplary hydraulic system includes a digital valve operable to fluidly connect a hydraulic load to a pressure supply. A digital controller is operably connected to the digital valve. The digital controller stores a target value of a hydraulic system operating parameter and is configured to formulate a pulse width modulated control signal based on the target value. The digital controller transmits the control signal to the digital valve for controlling the operation of the valve.
US08434301B2 Local backup hydraulic actuator for aircraft control systems
A backup system is provided that has a local electric motor and pump for some or all of hydraulic actuators. A local backup hydraulic actuator has two power sources, hydraulic as primary and electrical as backup. During normal operation, the hydraulic actuator receives pressurized fluid from a hydraulic system and the fluid flow to the chambers is controlled by a servo valve. If the hydraulic system fails, the electronic controller detects the failure by observing the signal indicative of the pressure from the pressure sensor, and the controller powers the local hydraulic pump to provide high pressure hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic actuator via the servo valve.
US08434300B2 Torque converter blade
A blade for a torque converter including a body having an outer edge, at least two shell tabs integral to the outer edge and extending therefrom and at least one flexible sealing flange adjacent to at least one of the at least two shell tabs, the at least one flexible sealing flange is integral to the outer edge and extending therefrom, wherein the outer edge is arranged to conform to an inner surface of a shell in a torque converter, the shell having at least two slots arranged therethrough, the at least one flexible sealing flange is arranged to conform to the inner surface of the shell to provide a fluid seal, the at least two shell tabs are disposed through the at least two slots and at least one of the at least two shell tabs is arranged to engage an outer surface of the shell.
US08434298B2 Method for injecting ammonia into an exhaust gas stream
A method (10) for injecting ammonia (NH3) into exhaust gas upstream of a catalyst of an aftertreatment system includes the steps of determining whether a regeneration event is imminent (14) on the basis of predetermined parameters, and determining whether dosing parameters are met (22). The method (10) further includes the steps of calculating an amount of NH3 to fill the catalyst (18) and adjusting a quantity of NH3 dosed (22) before the regeneration event occurs.
US08434297B2 Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
An electronic control unit executing an algorithm so as to operate an exhaust purification system of an engine. The algorithm (1) commences a regeneration treatment by causing an amount of fuel supplied to a combustion process of the engine to increase so as to change an air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas of the engine from a first lean air-fuel ratio to a set rich air-fuel ratio and (2) causes uncombusted fuel to be supplied to a NOx catalyst device during at least one of: a first period in which an air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas within the NOx catalyst device changes from the first lean air-fuel ratio to the set rich air-fuel ratio when the regeneration treatment is started; and a second period after an air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas within the NOx catalyst device becomes a ratio indicating completion of the regeneration treatment.
US08434295B2 System and method for reducing NOx emissions in an apparatus having a diesel engine
A method for increasing temperature of an aftertreatment device configured to treat emissions from a diesel engine includes adjusting intake valve closure timing.
US08434293B2 High stiffness shape memory alloy actuated aerostructure
A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuated aerostructure operable to dynamically change shape according to flight conditions is disclosed. Deformable structures are actuated by SMA actuators that are coupled to face sheets of the deformable structures. Actuating the SMA actuators produces complex shape changes of the deformable structures by activating shape changes of the SMA actuators. The SMA actuators are actuated via an active or passive temperature change based on operating conditions. The SMA actuated aerostructure can be used for morphable nozzles such as a variable area fan nozzle and/or a variable geometry chevron of a jet engine to reduce engine noise during takeoff without degrading fuel burn during cruise.
US08434292B2 Ceramic-encased hot surface igniter system for jet engines
A ceramic-encased hot surface igniter system for jet engines is presented. The advanced ceramic-encased hot surface igniter system comprises at least one electrical resistance heated element encased in a durable, thermal and mechanical shock resistant, high temperature advanced ceramic compound such as silicon nitride. The one or more advanced ceramic-encased hot surface igniter elements are mounted proximally upstream or within a combustion chamber of a jet engine enclosure or within the afterburner section of a jet propulsion engine's exhaust. The surface temperature of each ignition element's encasement being of sufficient temperature to cause the ignition of a gaseous, atomized, or liquid fuel.
US08434291B2 Systems and methods for detecting a flame in a fuel nozzle of a gas turbine
A system may detect a flame about a fuel nozzle of a gas turbine. The gas turbine may have a compressor and a combustor. The system may include a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, and a transducer. The first pressure sensor may detect a first pressure upstream of the fuel nozzle. The second pressure sensor may detect a second pressure downstream of the fuel nozzle. The transducer may be operable to detect a pressure difference between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor.
US08434290B2 Rotary disk crop harvesting header with an auger for transferring the crop
A crop header has generally horizontal flail disks mounted for driven rotation about generally upright axes. A pair of conditioner rolls is mounted in a discharge opening. A crop converging system includes two over-shot auger elements defined by a common auger shaft with an auger flight carried thereon arranged generally longitudinal of the cutter bar so as to carry the cut crop longitudinally of the cutter bar to the entrance opening. Each auger element is arranged with a forwardmost tangent to the auger flight located behind the axes of the rotary disks and with an outer end thereof spaced outwardly of the respective end of the entrance mouth. The common auger shaft is driven by a common rotary drive with the bottom roll of the conditioner rolls. The augers terminate inwardly of the outer end of the cutter bar to locate the drive inboard of the end plates.
US08434287B2 Method for metering a length of duct from a flexible container retaining the duct in a longitudinally compressed state
A method of retaining a longitudinally compressed flexible duct, the method includes removing at least one retaining strap from extending longitudinally about a flexible container retaining a longitudinally compressed flexible duct having a first end and a second end within the flexible container, the retaining strap extending about a first end and a second end of the flexible container. The method further includes securing a choker about a circumference transverse to the longitudinally compressed flexible duct and the flexible container to circumferentially compress a portion of the longitudinally compressed flexible duct at a position intermediate of the first end and the second end of the longitudinally compressed flexible duct.
US08434286B2 Medicament dispensing machine
The medicament dispensing machine enables to use vials having various sizes and shapes without changing a part in the machine or without performing a special operation. The medicament dispensing machine contains a discharging unit that receives a vial filled with a medicament from a medicament filling means and discharges out of a vial discharging window. The discharging unit contains a vial gripping means having a pair of gripping arms that grip a vial, a body of gripping means having the vial gripping means, a moving means that moves the vial gripping means from the medicament filling means to the vial discharging window, and an orientation changing mechanism that changes the orientation of the body of gripping means. With a coordination of the movement of the body of gripping means toward the vial discharging window, the orientation changing mechanism makes the gripping arms orient to the vial discharging window.
US08434285B2 Tiled transition bracketing
The present disclosure includes various brackets and systems for forming tiled transitions between surfaces. One bracket embodiment for forming a tiled transition between a first surface and a second surface forming an inside corner includes a first base portion securable to the first surface, a second base portion securable to the second surface, a receiving slot angled with respect to the first and second surfaces for receiving a tile strip to form the tiled transition, and a channel for receiving a filler material adjacent to the receiving slot.
US08434283B1 Extreme edge
The painting method disclosed is carried out by providing a curable liquid paint composition and an edging product having a colored surface and an adhesive surface opposite to the colored surface. The colored surface of the edging product is preferably a previously manufactured surface closely matching the to-be-used paint composition once the paint composition has been permitted to cure. The edging strip is permanently affixed onto a wall to be painted with the curable paint composition, with an edge of the edging strip contacting a surface bordering the wall or surface which is not to be painted with the curable liquid paint composition. The wall is then painted with the curable liquid paint composition, and the curable liquid paint composition is partly overlapped onto the edging product. The method provides a crisp even line at the interface between the wall and the bordering surface. Where the edging product has a thickness of less than 5 mils, it is easily concealed by partially overlapping with suitable paints on a wall on which it has been deployed.
US08434280B2 Modular building units
Presented is a modular building unit that includes a top end with a top surface, a bottom end with a bottom surface; a first plate assembly embedded in the top end, and a second plate assembly embedded in the bottom end. The first plate assembly includes a first plate with a threaded hole, a plurality of anchoring rods coupled to the first plate and embedded in the top end, and a threaded rod mated with the threaded hole. One end of the threaded rod is embedded in the top end and the other end extends out of the top end. The second plate assembly includes a second plate with an unthreaded hole, and a plurality of anchoring rods coupled to the second plate and embedded in the bottom end.
US08434273B1 Deck for roof of grain bin
A deck for the roof of a grain bin includes a plurality of deck units each having a plate having an upper face and a lower face and openings spaced from each other and adjacent each longitudinal edge of the plate. The spacing of some of the openings is substantially the same as the spacing of openings in the roof whereby the plate may be attached to the roof. A pair of ring segments extend substantially perpendicular to the elongate plate and rest upon the plate. Openings are in the ring segments and at least one of which is aligned with openings in the plate whereby the ring segments may be attached to the upper face of the plate. A riser extends upwardly from the ring segments opposite the plate, and the riser and ring segments are attached. A deck plate is attached to the riser opposite the ring segments.
US08434269B1 Eavestrough cover
An eavestrough cover comprising a first side structure and a second side structure with a central planar portion intermediate the side structures, the central portion having a plurality of longitudinally extending sections with each being separated from each other by a rollback member, the rollback members extending longitudinally and having one face thereof of a C-shaped configuration, all of the rollbacks facing in the same direction, each of the longitudinally extending sections having a plurality of apertures formed therein. The rollback structure helps prevent overflow of the eavestrough.
US08434267B2 Sealing strip for vehicle window and method of making it
A window assembly for sealingly attaching a window glass to a frame of a motor vehicle door is disclosed. The window assembly includes a sealing assembly in combination with a window glass. The sealing assembly comprises a sealing, trimming or guiding strip comprising a length of extruded material, a polypropylene or the like part which is joined to the window glass at an edge of the window glass, and a molded material, which is joined to the polypropylene or the like part and connected to said sealing strip. The molded material is preferably made of TPE. The strip is preferably made of EPDM. The molded material is molded in a mold with the polypropylene or the like part, which has previously been molded onto the window glass, and the strip to mold onto and thereby connect to these parts.
US08434265B1 Rack gear operator
A window operator moves a sash between an open and closed position. The window operator includes a track member and a sliding member. A gear member has a second end adapted and configured to be operatively connected to the window sash and a first end has a plurality of radially spaced gear members. A rack member is positioned proximate the track and is positioned to engage the gear teeth. One of the gear members and rack member is operatively connected to the sliding member. The other is positioned proximate the track and has no longitudinal movement relative to the track. A drive member is connected to the sliding member, wherein actuation of the drive member moves the sliding member longitudinally and causes the gear teeth to engage the track, thereby resulting in rotational movement of a gear member to move the sash between an open and closed position.
US08434264B2 Animal door having an adjustable height
Described is an animal door for enabling an animal to pass through a structure and for having an adjustable height. More specifically, the animal door is capable of being installed at the structure at multiple orientations, whereby the orientation at which the animal door is installed governs the height of the door. Additionally, the animal door is removably installed at the structure such that the orientation, and thus the height, of the door is adjustable.
US08434263B2 Floral sleeve having a decorative pattern
A plant packaging and covering system including a floral sleeve having a decorative pattern thereon. The sleeve may have a lower portion sized to cover a pot and an upper portion which can surround a plant disposed in the pot and which can be detached after the protective function of the upper portion is complete or which can be used to support the sleeve from a support device prior to use. The decorative pattern preferably has an arcuate upper boundary in the flattened condition which when opened gives the sleeve the appearance of having an upper edge which is parallel to the upper rim of the pot disposed within the sleeve.
US08434260B2 Decorative surround for plants
A decorative surround for potted plants is described. The surround may be a shell having a generally convex outer surface and an aperture in the shell suitable for either receiving or supporting a plant pot. The surround may be supported with respect to the ground or other reference surface by the periphery of the shell or by the bottom of a structure within the aperture, and the surround held against the ground by the weight of the potted plant. Alternatively, the surround may be affixed to the ground with pins or stakes. Another decorative surround is sized so that the aperture is smaller than a maximum diameter of the plant pot, and a strap is provided to hold the plant pot against an inner surface of the shell. The visible surface of the surround may be formed, textured or colored so as to have a visual appearance simulating natural rock.
US08434257B2 Apparatus to fish
An apparatus to fish having a body with exterior and interior faces extending from a first edge to a first end. At least one shaped channel is defined at the interior face, each shaped channel has a first channel extending from the first edge, and a second channel extending from the first channel. The body further has a first wall that extends from the interior face at a first predetermined distance from the first edge. A housing assembly is removably mounted into the body. The housing assembly has a second wall with a second edge, a first base wall with a third edge, and a housing. A first outside diameter of the second wall is smaller than a first interior diameter of the interior face. Protrusions protrude from the second edge; and a handle fixed to the interior face.
US08434254B1 Safety magazines for firing non-lethal training rounds and preventing the loading and firing of live rounds
A safety magazine allows training rounds to be fired while preventing the firing of live rounds. The magazine has front and rear walls, whereby the distance between the front wall and the rear wall is less than the length of a standard 5.56×45 mm NATO cartridge. The magazine has an alignment rib projecting from the rear wall that is adapted for insertion into an alignment groove formed in a rear end wall of a standard M16 style magazine well. The magazine has a spacer projecting laterally from the sides of said alignment rib and that is located between the rear wall of the magazine and the rear face of the alignment rib. The spacer is adapted to engage the rear end wall of the standard M16 style magazine well for spacing the rear wall of the safety magazine away from the rear end wall of the magazine well.
US08434251B2 Display apparatus
Disclosed is a display apparatus including a first case and a second case coupled to each other to define an external appearance of the display apparatus. A fastening guide extends from an inner surface of the first case, and a fastening member is engaged with the fastening guide. The fastening member is provided with a boss portion for screw-fastening. The first case and second case are coupled to each other using the fastening guide and fastening member having a thin thickness, whereby a reduced thickness of fastening parts and stable inter-coupling of the first case and second case are accomplished.
US08434248B2 Excavation retention assembly
An excavation retention assembly is provided for mounting a tooth to an excavating apparatus. The assembly in one embodiment includes a tooth and an adaptor end of a working member of an excavating apparatus. The tooth includes a cavity for mating with an end of the adaptor, an opening for receiving a fastening member and a fastening receptacle in the cavity opposite the opening in the tooth for receiving the fastening member. The adaptor includes a passage which aligns with the opening in the tooth and the fastening member. The fastening member passes through the aligned opening of the tooth, the passage of the adaptor and into the fastening receptacle for securing the tooth to the adaptor.
US08434247B2 Electric mining shovel saddle block assembly with adjustable wear plates
A saddle block assembly including a main body having a shipper shaft opening through the main body bottom end, and an eccentric pin opening in the main body top end, an eccentric pin received in an eccentric pin opening in the top end of the main body, and a wear plate support. The wear plate support has a pin receiving opening, the eccentric pin being received in the pin receiving opening. Wear plates are mounted on the bottom end of the wear plate support and are adapted to bear against the top of a dipper handle.
US08434246B2 Interchangeable sandal and related methods
Various embodiments of an evolutionary interchangeable sandal are disclosed. Certain example embodiments described herein relate to various sandal configurations that utilize at least two main elements, including a platform sole base and a strap assembly. These elements may be joined by special fasteners that provide quick-connect or disconnect while securely maintaining sandal integrity and wearability. The platform sole base may be customized in various thicknesses and sandal sizes. The strap assembly may be customized in various shapes, colors, styles, and/or manufacturing materials. In the case of the sole tread/height enhancement addition, the soles tread and height may be interchanged as needed.
US08434240B2 Freeze drying method
A method of controlling the primary drying stage in a freeze drying apparatus having a shelf and bulk product or a number of vials in different areas on the shelf which contain product to be freeze dried. Temperature sensors are positioned in selected locations or vials which are representative of the different bulk product areas or the positions of all of the vials in different areas of the shelf. The temperature sensors are monitored and compared to determine the selected location or vial having the highest temperature while the temperature sensor therein is still in ice. The shelf temperature is controlled based on the selected location or vial with the highest temperature so long as the temperature sensor therein is still in ice. When the temperature sensor in the highest temperature selected location or vial is no longer in ice, another selected location or vial with the highest temperature and a temperature sensor therein that is still in ice is then used to control the shelf temperature.
US08434236B2 Chain saw with tension adjustment
A chain saw apparatus has a body, a guide bar extending from the body, a drive sprocket rotatably mounted to the body, a chain affixed to the drive sprocket and to the guide bar, an engagement device positioned on the body and cooperative with the guide bar so as to allow the guide bar to move toward and away from the body, and pushing device for automatically moving the guide bar away from the drive sprocket. The pushing device has a slide and an elastic component. The slide bears against a rear end of the guide bar. The elastic component urges between the body and the slide.
US08434233B2 Inner cutter for a rotary shaver and a rotary shaver using the same
An inner cutter, which is used for a rotary shaver, including a plurality of blade supports formed so as to be raised from an inner cutter main body and provided with cutter blades formed, respectively, at the tip ends of the raised blade supports, with positions where the blade supports are raised being located more forward in the direction of rotation of the inner cutter than the leading edge positions of the cutter blades.
US08434230B2 Method to make a vehicle door
A vehicle door is manufactured by producing a supportive frame (10) and a waist rail (14) and a side impact guard beam (22) which are formed integrally with the supportive frame. The door is produced by hot stamping a steel sheet blank into the shape of a supportive door frame that includes an integral waist rail (14) and a side impact guard beam (22), and hardening the shaped door frame while the frame remains in the shaping tools, and fastening an outer panel (31) to the finished door such that the side collision guard beam (22) of the frame will lie close to the outer panel (31).
US08434229B2 Liquid ejection head manufacturing method
A liquid ejection head manufacturing method includes, in the following order, preparing a substrate having a flow path mold; arranging a first layer serving as a flow path wall member so as to cover the flow path mold; curing a portion of the first layer serving as a flow path sidewall; arranging a second layer so as to cover the cured portion of the first layer and the flow path mold; planarizing the second layer by pressing the second layer toward the substrate; arranging the ejection port in the first layer and the second layer; and forming the flow path by removing the flow path mold.
US08434228B2 Heat exchanger and a method of manufacturing it
A heat exchanger including a metal base formed of a plurality of interfitted elements and fins formed in part from recompressed expanded graphite, wherein the fins are securely connected to the base by placing a deformable edge portion of each fin between each pair of interfitting elements and thereafter compressing the interfitting elements toward one another to deformably retain the edge portions of each fin there between.
US08434225B2 Hydrophilic particle enhanced heat exchange and method of manufacture
A method for manufacturing a heat pipe. Activated particles or particle clusters are formed. The activated particles or particle clusters are contacted with a working fluid in a non-oxidizing environment to form a chemisorbed layer of the working fluid thereon to generate chemisorbed working fluid surfaced activated hydrophilic particles or activated hydrophilic particle clusters which provide a solid-liquid contact angle to working fluid when subsequently added of <30 degrees. The chemisorbed working fluid surfaced activated hydrophilic particles or hydrophilic particle clusters are vacuum transferred and filled inside the heat pipe along with an additional volume of working fluid. The heat pipe is then sealed.
US08434224B2 Method for manufacture of an integrally bladed rotor, with temporary blade-holding ring
A method to manufacture an integrally bladed rotor, including: cutting a block of material by an abrasive waterjet, undertaken so as to reveal blade preforms extending radially from a disk, while retaining the material forming a linking mechanism between at least two preforms of directly consecutive blades, wherein the linking mechanism is spaced radially from the disk; followed by removal of the linking mechanism.
US08434223B2 Method for manufacturing a substrate supporting an integrated circuit chip
A substrate for mounting a preamp chip thereupon, fabricated using a stiffener layer made of a conductive material; an insulating layer provided over the circuitry area of the substrate; a circuitry made of a conductive material provided over the insulating layer; and a flap which is an extension of the stiffener layer having no insulating layer provided thereupon. The flap is fabricated to fold over the preamp chip to remove heat therefrom.
US08434222B2 Method to manufacture a circuit apparatus having a rounded differential pair trace
A first artwork layer having a first adaptable-mask section allows a graded amount of light to pass into an underlying first photoresist layer. Subsequent to developing the first photoresist layer, the graded amount of light creates a rounded geometric void used as a mold or sidewall for the creation of at least a lower portion of a rounded trace. A dielectric layer is laminated upon the lower portion and a second artwork layer having an second adaptable-mask section allows a graded amount of light to pass into a second photoresist layer. Subsequent to developing the second photoresist layer, the graded amount of light creates a rounded geometric void used as a mold or sidewall for the creation of at least an upper portion of a rounded trace. The photoresist and dielectric layers are removed resulting in a circuit apparatus having a rounded differential pair trace.
US08434216B2 Methods and systems for in-situ machine maintenance
Methods and systems for maintaining a machine using an in-situ vehicle (IV) is provided. The IV may be used with a machine that includes a work-piece and an interference body positioned proximate a surface of the work-piece such that a relatively small gap extends between the work-piece and the interference body. The method includes transporting the IV from external to the machine into the gap, positioning the IV in the gap such that at least a portion of the IV circumscribes a work area of the work-piece, locking the IV between the work-piece and the interference body, and manipulating a tool coupled to the IV from external to the machine, the tool configured to transfer a component between the work-piece and a storage cassette on the IV.
US08434213B2 Method for fabricating molded coil
There is provided a system for readily and efficiently fabricating a wound coil composed of a bobbinless coil. The system includes a coil winding device having an upper jig to which an upper plate is attached and a lower jig to which a lower plate is attached which are provided so as to be relatively displaceable and a tension device for applying predetermined tension to a wire rod fed from a wire rod supplying source. The coil winding device is provided with a claw section having first through third split claws that function as a winding section around which the wire rod is wound between the upper and lower plates and that slide in a radial direction when the upper jig is assembled coaxially with the lower jig.
US08434208B2 Two-dimensional layout for use in a complex structure
A method for manufacturing a complex structure from a two-dimensional layout, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a support plate having a pre-determined, patterned recess formed in a surface thereof; (b) depositing a first series of individual flexible interconnects into the recess, the flexible interconnects being aligned parallel to one another in a common plane and supported by the support plate; (c) adhering, with adhering means, at least one rigid member to each of the flexible interconnects of the first series; (d) adhering, with adhering means, a second series of individual flexible interconnects to the rigid members to form a plurality of stations, wherein each of the second series of flexible interconnects is adhered to two rigid members of adjacent flexible interconnects of the first series, the flexible interconnects of the second series being formed perpendicular to the flexible interconnects of the first series; (e) curing the adhering means to form an assembled, layered structure; (f) removing the layered structure from the support plate; and (g) folding, systematically, the layered structure on itself and causing at least some of the stations to be supported about a central spine in a segmented manner.
US08434206B2 Clutching jig
A clutching jig includes a pair of clutching bars, a pair of clutching pieces and a protecting means. Each of the clutching bars includes a top end portion and a bottom end portion. The top end portions are connected to each other and the bottom end portion are separated from each other. Each of the clutching pieces is fixed to the bottom end portion of each of the clutching bars. The clutching pieces are covered by the protecting means and exposed from the protecting means via the protecting means moved relative to the clutching pieces. The protecting blocks will cover the clutching pieces if the clutching jig is unused. The protecting blocks will slide upwardly relative to the clutching bars to urge the clutching pieces to be exposed if the clutching jig is used. Hence, the protecting blocks can protect the clutching pieces to prevent the clutching pieces from damage.
US08434199B1 Cooking device knob safety assembly
A knob safety assembly is operative to selectively restrict depression of a cooking element control knob. The safety assembly includes a blocking plate disposed inside of a bezel assembly. The bezel assembly includes an outer bezel defining one or more angled camming surfaces, and an inner bezel. Rotation of the inner bezel with respect to the outer bezel about a rotational axis slides an ear of the blocking plate along the camming surface to effect movement of the blocking plate along the rotational axis between a raised position, in which the blocking plate restricts depression of a cooking element control knob, to a recessed position, in which the blocking plate facilitates depression of the control knob. The inner bezel is releasably locked from rotating with respect to the outer bezel, and engages the blocking plate to constrain the blocking plate against movement along the rotational axis when locked.
US08434197B2 Biaxial hinge device
One end portion of a front-rear adjustment member 17 is disposed in a door-side mounting member 3 such that the front-rear adjustment member 17 is rotatable about a second shaft 12. An adjustment screw (not shown) having an axis thereof oriented in the left-right direction is provided in the door-side mounting member. The adjustment screw is threadedly engaged with the other end portion of the front-rear adjustment member 17. After the adjustment screw is rotated in normal and reverse directions, thereby rotating the front-rear adjustment member 17 as appropriate, a connecting arm 13 is rotated about a first shaft 11 so as to cancel out the rotation of the front-rear adjustment member 17.
US08434189B2 Brush having a resiliently articulated handgrip
A brush includes: a brushing unit including a bristle-retaining member that has a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, a plurality of bristles retained on the bristle-retaining member and disposed on the first side, and a pivot connector provided on the second side of the bristle-retaining member; a handgrip having a pivoted portion that is pivotally connected to the pivot connector, a grip portion that is opposite to the pivoted portion, and a positioning portion that is disposed between the pivoted portion and the grip portion; and a resilient component disposed between the brushing unit and the handgrip, and providing a biasing force for urging the positioning portion of the handgrip to abut against the bristle-retaining member.
US08434182B2 Pool cleaner with high pressure cleaning jets
A pool cleaning apparatus includes a housing and a pump for drawing water and debris through an intake port into a filter. A jet-valve housing having a jet valve flap is mounted over the pump to direct a propulsion jet stream from the pump to move the cleaner in a forward direction. A cleaning nozzle is mounted over each of the front and rear portions of the housing, and a pressurized water jet stream is directed at a first pool surface beneath the cleaner through the front end nozzle while moving in a forward direction. When the cleaner engages a second pool surface substantially perpendicular to the first surface, propulsion outlets of the jet valve housing are partially closed to redirect a portion of the propulsion jet stream to the front-end nozzle to lift the front end of the cleaner off the first surface. When the front end of the cleaner disengages from contact with the second surface, the propulsion outlets open to permit the propulsion jet stream to propel the cleaner along the second surface.
US08434176B1 Back support pillow system
A pillow kit for providing comfort to user featuring a back support pillow system for positioning a user's back in a comfortable position, a C-shaped neck pillow adapted to wrap around a user's neck; and a cylindrical knee pillow adapted to be placed under a user's knees. The back support pillow system features a base pillow with a head indentation, two opposing wings for supporting the user's arms, and a removable lumbar support bar.
US08434175B1 Nonwoven fabrics for bedding applications
Protective covers for pillows and mattress are wholly or partly made of layered polyolefin fabrics. The layered polyolefin fabrics used for the protective covers are sheets of material bonded together with an adhesive or other bonding methods. One of the layers of the laminated fabric is a nonwoven polyolefin fabric and another layer is a polyolefin film. The protective covers stop migration of dust mites and are also reusable. The covers are cleaned and sanitized using a washer and a dryer.
US08434171B2 Commode seat for a rollator
A commode seat for a rollator, incorporating therein a collapsible telescopic splash guard.
US08434168B2 Weight balancing face shield
A rotational engagement component to engage a lens for facial protection, to headwear such as a helmet worn on the head of a user. The device features one or a plurality of mounts engageable to the helmet. A pivot engaged with the mount and with the lens, allow rotation of the lens from an as-used position in front of the user, to a horizontal stowed position. The pivot is translatable in its engagement to the mount allowing for translation of the lens in the stowed position to adjust its center of gravity on the user's head.