最新美国发明专利第2013-05-14期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08440426B2	Method for production of antimutagenic substance using lactic acid bacterium Disclosed is a method for producing an antimutagenic substance by using a lactic acid bacteria, which can produce the antimutagenic substance in a large quantity in an extremely simple manner and is economically advantageous; particularly a method for producing an antimutagenic substance effective for a carcinogenic substance, particularly a heterocyclic amine (HCA) which is a carcinogenic substance derived from a food, by using a lactic acid bacteria. Specifically disclosed is a method for producing an antimutagenic substance by using a lactic acid bacteria, which is characterized by suspending the lactic acid bacteria in a poorly nutrient or nutrient-free medium and leaving the lactic acid bacteria in the medium. Preferably, the poorly nutrient or nutrient-free medium is selected from the group consisting of physiological saline, a phosphate-buffered saline without a calcium or magnesium salt (PBS (−)), a citrate buffer, a distilled water, an ion-exchanged water, a natural water, a well water, a tap water, a mineral-added water, a vitamin-added water, an ion supply beverage for an athlete and the like. More preferably, the lactic acid bacteria is Lactobacillus plantarum strain KK-2503 or Lactobacillus alimentarius strain KN-15.
US08440425B2	Method of preparing a biological specimen slide A method of preparing a slide of a biological specimen, including the steps of (a) providing a slide containing a biological specimen and a cover slip, (b) placing a liquid non-evaporating sealing compound such as mineral oil at spaced locations around an area on the slide and (c) placing the cover slip over the specimen area whereby the specimen and reagent is between the slide and the cover slip and the sealing compound spreads to define a closed boundary around the specimen in the space between the slide and the cover slip. Testing of the biological specimen may then be performed automatically.
US08440423B2	Bioremediation of nanomaterials The present invention provides a method comprising the use of microorganisms for nanotoxicity study and bioremediation. In some embodiment, the microorganisms are bacterial organisms such as Gram negative bacteria, which are used as model organisms to study the nanotoxicity of the fullerene compounds: E. coli W3110, a human related enterobacterium and Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, an environmentally important bacterium with versatile metabolism.
US08440421B2	Upregulation of integrin linked kinase (ILK) to provide cardioprotective effects Modulation of the integrin-linked kinase (ILK) signaling pathway is used to enhance the remodeling process relevant to a wide range of cardiac diseases. More specifically, a process to instigate beneficial human cardiac hypertrophy or for post myocardial infraction (MI) remodeling comprising illiciting an overexpression of ILK, is described. The ILK signaling pathway is also used as a means for cardiac stem cell proliferation and self-renewal.
US08440420B2	Assessment of cardiac health and thrombotic risk in a patient The invention features methods and compositions for assessing risk, particularly immediate risk, of thrombotic events in patients with suspected or known vascular disease, and more particularly to assessing risk of thrombotic events in patients with coronary artery disease, particularly acute myocardial infarction, stroke, unstable angina, stable angina, or restenosis. Risk of thrombosis can be assessed by analysis of platelet reactivity and/or velocity of thrombin or fibrin formation, and determining whether the patient has a score associated above a risk threshold value. In other embodiments, risk of thrombosis in a patient is evaluated in the context of a profile generated from values obtained from one or more assays that evaluate various factors associated with thrombosis and/or atherosclerosis.
US08440414B2	Method for monitoring the regulatory activity of chromosome segregation The present invention is to provide meiosis-specific novel kinetochore protein Sgo1 (shugoshin) derived from fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, and a homologue or paralogue thereof having a regulatory activity of chromosome segregation; and DNAs encoding them; as a factor ensuring the retention of unidirection and cohesion in sister centromere at meiosis I in cooperation with cohesin. To elucidate the proteins protecting Rec8 during anaphase, the present inventor screened in fission yeast genes for a gene that inhibits mitotic growth and prevents sister chromatid from the separation at anaphase, when co-expressed with Rec8. In this approach, meiosis-specific protein Sgo1 that protects (Shugo) centromeric Rec8 from the degradation at anaphase I was indentified. Further, a budding yeast Sgo1 homologue and a fission yeast mitotic paralogue Sgo2 were identified.
US08440409B2	Protein C inhibitor as a biomarker for prostate cancer The present invention provides a protein-based biomarker, Protein C Inhibitor (PCI) that is useful in qualifying prostate cancer status in a patient. In particular, the biomarker of this invention is useful to classify a subject sample as prostate cancer or non-prostate cancer. The biomarker can be detected by SELDI mass spectrometry.
US08440406B2	Amplification primers with non-standard bases for increased reaction specificity Described herein are methods for increasing the annealing specificity of an amplification reaction using Iso-base Amplification Primers (“IAPs”). IAPs containing an iso-region are capable of regulating sequence-specific annealing thereby enhancing primer-template hybridization for sequence-specific amplification of nucleotides.
US08440403B2	Apparatus and method An apparatus for investigating a molecule comprising a channel provided in a substrate, a metallic moiety capable of plasmon resonance which is associated with the channel in a position suitable for the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety to interact with a molecule passing therethrough, means to induce a molecule to pass through the channel, means to induce surface plasmon resonance in the metallic moiety; and means to detect interaction between the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety and a molecule passing through the channel. Methods of investigating molecules are also provided.
US08440401B2	Methods and compositions for DNA manipulation single-stranded extension having a desired length and sequence composition. Methods for forming single-stranded extensions include: the use of a cassette containing at least one nicking site and at least one restriction site at a predetermined distance from each other and in a predetermined orientation; or primer-dependent amplification which introduces into a polynucleotide molecule, a modified nucleotide which is excised to create a nick using a nicking agent. The methods and compositions provided can be used to manipulate a DNA sequence including introducing site specific mutations into a polynucleotide molecule and for cloning any polynucleotide molecule or set of joined polynucleotide molecules in a recipient molecule such as a vector of choice.
US08440400B2	Process for amplifying DNA in cells The present invention relates to a process for efficiently amplifying a giant DNA. More particularly, the present invention relates to a process for amplifying DNA in a cell, comprising amplifying the DNA as the target of amplification in the presence of DNAs selected from the following (i), (ii) and (iii): (i) DNA encoding a protein selected from the following 1), 2) and 3): 1) a protein consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, 2) a protein comprising an amino acid sequence which has a deletion, substitution, insertion or addition of one or more amino acids in the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, and 3) a protein comprising an amino acid sequence which has an identity of 90% or more to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, (ii) DNA consisting of the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, and (iii) DNA hybridizing to the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 under stringent conditions.
US08440398B2	Method for prediction of sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil-type anticancer agent A factor affecting sensitivities to anticancer agents is analyzed and the validity of the factor is demonstrated.The present invention provides a method for predicting sensitivities to 5-fluorouracil-based anticancer agents using the copy number of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase gene as an indicator. Also disclosed are a kit and primers for use in predicting sensitivities to 5-fluorouracil-based anticancer agents.
US08440395B2	Methods of detecting and treating colon disorders The subject invention pertains to a method of detecting colon disorders including inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, based on underexpression of Lipopolysaccharide Responsive Beige-like Anchor (LRBA). Advantageously, the invention may be used to test for inflammatory bowel disease using a blood sample from a subject before a more invasive test for colon disorders is employed. The invention also pertains to methods of treating a colon disorder in a subject in which the colon disorder is detected.
US08440394B2	Methods for the detection and/or quantification of gram positive bacterial contaminants The invention provides methods and compositions for the detection and/or quantification of a Gram positive bacterial contaminant in a sample. In particular, the invention provides hemocyte-based preparations, methods of making such hemocyte-based preparations, and methods of using such hemocyte-based preparations for the detection and/or quantification of the Gram positive bacterial contaminant.
US08440392B2	Method of conducting a droplet based enzymatic assay A method of conducting a droplet-based enzymatic assay is provided. The method generally makes use of a droplet actuator. A droplet comprising an enzyme of interest is provided on the droplet actuator along with a droplet comprising a substrate which is potentially modified in the presence of the enzyme. The method involves executing droplet operations on the droplet actuator to combine the droplets, thereby yielding an assay droplet, and detecting modification of the substrate by the enzyme in the assay droplet on the droplet actuator. The enzyme of interest may, for example, be a potentially mutated or improperly folded enzyme exhibiting altered enzyme activity as compared to a corresponding normal enzyme.
US08440390B2	Method for ice-free cryopreservation of tissue Method for preserving tissue including immersing the tissue in a solution having a cryoprotectant concentration of at least 75% by weight, a cooling step where the tissue is cooled to a temperature between the glass transition temperature of the solution having a cryoprotectant concentration of at least 75% by weight and −20° C., a storage step where the tissue is stored at a temperature between the glass transition temperature of the solution and −20° C., a rewarming step, where the tissue is warmed, and a washing step.
US08440389B2	Stripper solutions effective for back-end-of-line operations Back end of line (BEOL) stripping solutions which can be used in a stripping process that replaces etching resist ashing process are provided. The stripping solutions are useful for fabricating circuits and/or forming electrodes on semiconductor devices for semiconductor integrated circuits with good efficiency and with low and acceptable metal etch rates. Methods for their use are similarly provided. The preferred stripping agents contain a polar aprotic solvent, water, an amine and a quaternary hydroxide that is not tetramethylammonium hydroxide. Further provided are integrated circuit devices and electronic interconnect structures prepared according to these methods.
US08440388B2	Method to restore hydrophobicity in dielectric films and materials Silica dielectric films, whether nanoporous foamed silica dielectrics or nonporous silica dielectrics are readily damaged by fabrication methods and reagents that reduce or remove hydrophobic properties from the dielectric surface. The invention provides for methods of imparting hydrophobic properties to such damaged silica dielectric films present on a substrate. The invention also provides plasma-based methods for imparting hydrophobicity to both new and damaged silica dielectric films. Semiconductor devices prepared by the inventive processes are also provided.
US08440386B2	Patterning process, resist composition, and acetal compound A pattern is formed by applying a resist composition comprising a polymer comprising recurring units having an acid labile group-substituted hydroxyl group, an acid generator, and an organic solvent onto a substrate, prebaking the composition to form a resist film, exposing the resist film to high-energy radiation to define exposed and unexposed regions, baking, and developing the exposed film with an organic solvent developer to form a negative pattern wherein the unexposed region of film is dissolved and the exposed region of film is not dissolved.
US08440383B2	Metal compositions, thermal imaging donors and patterned multilayer compositions derived therefrom Thermal imaging donors are useful for thermal transfer patterning of a metal layer and optionally, a corresponding proximate portion of an additional transfer layer onto a thermal imaging receiver. The compositions are useful for dry fabrication of electronic devices. Also provided are patterned multilayer compositions comprising one or more base film(s), and one or more patterned metal layers. These include electromagnetic interference shields and touchpad sensors.
US08440378B2	Electrostatic image developing toner, method for producing electrostatic image developing toner, method for forming image, and image forming apparatus An electrostatic image developing toner includes a binding resin and a release agent, wherein an organic silicon compound including a siloxane bond is present in a domain of the release agent.
US08440376B2	Exposure determining method, method of manufacturing semiconductor device, and computer program product According to one embodiment, a deviation amount distribution of a two-dimensional shape parameter between a mask pattern formed on a mask and a desired mask pattern is acquired as a mask pattern map. Such that a deviation amount of the two-dimensional shape parameter between a pattern on substrate formed when the mask is subjected to exposure shot to form a pattern on a substrate and a desired pattern on substrate fits within a predetermined range, an exposure is determined for each position in the exposure shot in forming the pattern on substrate based on the mask pattern map.
US08440373B2	Mask blank substrate, mask blank, photomask, and methods of manufacturing the same A mask blank substrate for a photomask is chucked on a mask stage of an exposure apparatus. A main surface, on the side where a thin film for a transfer pattern is to be formed, of the mask blank substrate has a flatness of 0.3 μm or less in a 142 mm square area including its central portion and has a convex shape being relatively high at its central portion and relatively low at its peripheral portion. The difference upon fitting, to the main surface of the mask blank substrate, a virtual reference main surface, having a spherical shape in a 132 mm square area, of a virtual reference substrate is 40 nm or less.
US08440372B2	Single field zero mask for increased alignment accuracy in field stitching A single field photomask includes a first set of targets formed on a first side of the photomask, and a second set of targets formed on a second side of the photomask, opposite the first side. In operation, the photomask is to be applied to a wafer without any alignment marks. The photomask forms a first set of alignment marks in the wafer from the first set of targets, and the photomask further forms a second set of alignment marks in the wafer from the second set of targets. The first set of alignment marks is used to align to a first field mask and the second set of alignment marks is used to align to a second field mask to stitch an image of the first field mask to an image of the second field mask.
US08440371B2	Imaging devices, methods of forming same, and methods of forming semiconductor device structures An imaging device comprising at least one array pattern region and at least one attenuation region. A plurality of imaging features in the at least one array pattern region and a plurality of assist features in the at least one attenuation region are substantially the same size as one another and are formed substantially on pitch. Methods of forming an imaging device and methods of forming a semiconductor device structure are also disclosed.
US08440370B2	Method of making a reflection hologram and a reflection hologram The present application provides a method of manufacturing a reflection hologram. The method comprises the steps of placing a first pattern of activating material upon a layer of inactive holographic recording material to selectively activate the layer and exposing the layer to holographic recording process for producing a reflection hologram.
US08440368B2	Stainless steel separator for fuel cell having M/MNx and MOyNz layer and method for manufacturing the same Disclosed herein is a stainless steel separator for a fuel cell and method of manufacture. The stainless steel separator includes a stainless steel sheet, a first coating layer comprising metal/metal nitride films (M/MNx) (0.5≦x≦1) on a surface of the stainless steel sheet, and a second coating layer comprising a metal oxynitride film (MOyNz) (0.05≦y≦2, 0.25≦z≦1.0).
US08440365B2	Electrolyte, production process therefor, electrolyte membrane, production process therefor, catalyst layer and fuel cell An electrolyte having a structure where a fluorinated hydrophilic segment A represented by -E2-[Rf-E1]m- and a hydrocarbon hydrophobic segment B are alternately bonded to each other through chemical bond and a production process therefor, and an electrolyte membrane, a production process therefor, a catalyst layer and a fuel cell using the same. Rf is a linear or a branched perfluoro chain having one or more carbon atoms, E1, and E2 are each a proton conductive portion represented by Formula —(CONM)i1(CO)i2(SO2NM)i3(SO2)i4— (0≦i1, 0≦i2≦1, 0≦i3, 0≦i4≦1, 0
US08440364B2	Membrane electrode assembly and fuel cell A membrane electrode assembly includes an solid polymer electrolyte membrane, an anode, and a cathode. The cathode has a stacked body of a catalyst layer and a gas diffusion layer. The catalyst layer has platinum-cobalt-supporting carbon particles and an ion conductor. The ratio (P2/P1) of the pore volume P2 (ml/g) per gram of catalyst layer in a second micro-pore diameter, ranging from 0.1 μm to less than 1 μm, over the pore volume P1 per gram of catalyst layer in a first micro-pore diameter, ranging from 0.01 μm to less than 0.1 μm, is in a range of 3.8 to 8.3.
US08440357B2	Fuel cell catalyst regeneration Systems that facilitate operating proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are provided. The systems employ a fuel supply component that supplies fuel to the proton exchange membrane fuel cell; and a regeneration component that provides a reducing agent comprising a mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen, or a reducing plasma to a cathode catalyst of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell to reduce the cathode catalyst.
US08440355B2	Equalizing electrode plate with insulated split-flow conductive structure The present invention relates to an equalizing electrode plate with insulated split-flow conductive structure, which is a specifically installed insulated split-flow conductive structure with internal conductive body coated with insulator; one end of the insulated split-flow conductive structure connects to the electric energy input/output terminal of the electrode plate, and another end connects to the electrode plate area farther away from the electric energy input/output terminal and/or with larger impedance in the electrode plate; thus the dedicated insulated split-flow conductive structure connects with the electric energy input/output terminal to specifically transmit the electric energy therebetween.
US08440352B2	Negative active material for lithium secondary battery and negative electrode and lithium secondary battery comprising same A negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery of the present invention includes a negative active material including a plate-shaped carbon powder particle agglomerated in a primary structure in which the plate-shaped particle is oriented in a plane direction and laminated. Fine carbon powder particles are then agglomerated to form a secondary structure on the surface of the primary structure such that the resulting particles include fine pores formed on the surface.
US08440347B2	Secondary battery A secondary battery including an electrode assembly, a can accommodating the electrode assembly, a cap assembly sealing the can, and an insulating case interposed between the electrode assembly and the cap assembly and having two facing long side walls and two facing short side walls, wherein the two facing long side walls include opposing end portions and opposing central portions, the opposing end portions and the opposing central portions each include outer surfaces and a distance between the outer surfaces of the opposing end portions of the long side walls is greater than a distance between the outer surfaces of the opposing central portions of the long side walls.
US08440343B2	Electricity storage system and metal battery case manufacturing method An electricity storage system comprises a plurality of battery cells in which battery elements are accommodated in angular metal battery cases, wherein the plurality of battery cells are connected together electrically and are disposed in such a manner as to form spaces between the metal battery cells, and wherein the metal battery cell comprises an angular metallic housing on an external surface of which irregularities are formed and a resin portion which is injection molded integrally on the external surface of the metallic housing.
US08440339B2	Battery module, electric storage device and electric system A battery module is configured so that the first cell string and the second cell string are arranged between the first plate member and the second plate member and the second cell string is arranged closer to the second plate member side than the first cell string is and is arranged closer to the outlet side than the first cell string is. At the inlet side of the housing, the inlet is arranged closer to the first plate member than to the second cell string, at least a part between the inlet side of the second cell string and the second plate member is covered by the inlet-side guide plate, and the cooling air is introduced into the housing through the inlet so as to form a flow of the cooling air along the first plate member and a flow of the cooling air along the inlet-side guide plate.
US08440336B2	Rechargeable battery with short circuit member A rechargeable battery includes: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator between the first electrode and the second electrode; a case containing the electrode assembly; and a cap assembly coupled to the case. The cap assembly includes a cap plate and a short circuit member attached to the cap plate. The short circuit member includes a portion having a different thickness from another portion of the short circuit member.
US08440335B2	Explosion-proof device including battery cover with rupture film positioned in valve seat for use in power batteries An explosion-proof device for use in power batteries includes a battery cover defining an explosion-proof hole, a valve seat securely mounted in the explosion-proof hole and hermetically sealing the battery cover, and a rupture film positioned in the valve seat and hermetically sealing the explosion-proof hole. The rupture film is insulatively isolated from the valve seat via an insulative cushion enclosing the rupture film, or an insulative layer formed on the rupture film. In the explosion-proof device of the prevent invention, the rupture film is insulatively isolated from the valve seat, which can prevent the rupture film from being electrochemically corroded.
US08440334B2	Rechargeable battery A rechargeable battery including a case containing an electrode assembly, the electrode assembly having a coated region and an uncoated region, a lead member inside the case, the lead member surrounding at least a part of the uncoated region of the electrode assembly and having a first thickness, an electrode terminal connected to the lead member, and a current collecting plate having a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness and coupled to the lead member and to the uncoated region.
US08440333B2	Fuel cell and electronic apparatus A fuel cell is provided having excellent performance and being capable of achieving a sufficient buffer ability in a high-output operation when an enzyme is immobilized on at least one of a positive electrode and a negative electrode and of sufficiently exhibiting the ability inherent in the enzyme. A biofuel cell includes a structure in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode are opposed to each other with an electrolyte layer containing a buffer material provided therebetween, an enzyme being immobilized on at least one of the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The electrolyte layer contains as the buffer material a compound including an imidazole ring. As the compound including an imidazole ring, imidazole, 1-methylimidazole, 2-methylimidazole, 4-methylimidazole, 2-ethylimidazole, or the like is used.
US08440332B2	Perpendicular magnetic recording medium and magnetic storage device using the same Embodiments of the present invention provide a perpendicular magnetic recording medium that reduces the noise of granular recording layers, obtains sufficient overwrite characteristic that suppresses an increase in the magnetic cluster size, and allows high-density recording. According to one embodiment, a perpendicular magnetic recording medium comprising substrate having thereon at least soft magnetic layer, nonmagnetic intermediate layer, a perpendicular recording layer and protective layer formed in that order. The perpendicular recording layer consists of three or more layers of first recording layer, a second recording layer, and a third recording layer from the side nearer to the substrate. The first recording layer and the second recording layer have a granular structure comprising a grain boundary of an oxide surrounding ferromagnetic crystal grains containing Co and Pt, and the third recording layer has a non-granular structure mainly comprising Co and not containing an oxide. The grain boundary of the first recording layer contains Si, Cr and oxygen, and at least one element selected from Ti, Ta and Nb, and the grain boundary of the second recording layer contains Cr and oxygen, or contains Cr and oxygen and at least one element selected from Si, W and V.
US08440331B2	Magnetic nanohole superlattices A magnetic material is disclosed including a two-dimensional array of carbon atoms and a two-dimensional array of nanoholes patterned in the two-dimensional array of carbon atoms. The magnetic material has long-range magnetic ordering at a temperature below a critical temperature Tc.
US08440330B2	Memory cell with radial barrier Magnetic tunnel junction cells and methods of making magnetic tunnel junction cells that include a radially protective layer extending proximate at least the ferromagnetic free layer of the cell. The radially protective layer can be specifically chosen in thickness, deposition method, material composition, and/or extent along the cell layers to enhance the effective magnetic properties of the free layer, including the effective coercivity, effective magnetic anisotropy, effective dispersion in magnetic moment, or effective spin polarization.
US08440329B2	Transparent substrate which can be used alternatively or cumulatively, for thermal control, for electromagnetic armour and for heated glazing A glazing for thermal control and heating is provided. The glazing includes a transparent substrate including glass and provided with a thin-film stack including a plurality of functional layers. The thin-film stack includes at least three silver-based functional layers. The thin-film stack has a resistance R<1.5Ω per square.
US08440327B2	Method of producing a layer by arc-evaporation from ceramic cathodes A method of producing hard wear resistant layer with improved wear resistance. The method is a reactive arc-evaporation based process using a cathode including as main constituent at least one phase of a refractory compound Mn+1AXn (n=1, 2 or 3), wherein M is one or more metals selected from the groups IIIB, IVB, VB, VIB and VIIB of the periodic table of elements, A is one or more elements selected from the groups IIIA, IVA, VA and VIA of the periodic table of elements, and wherein X is carbon and/or nitrogen.
US08440326B2	Hole transport materials containing triphenylene Novel materials are provided, having a single phenyl or chain of phenyls where there is a nitrogen atom on each end of the single phenyl or chain of phenyls. The nitrogen atom may be further substituted with particular triphenylene groups. Organic light-emitting devices are also provided, where the novel materials are used as a hole transport material in the device. Combinations of the hole transport material with specific host materials are also provided.
US08440322B2	Plain bearing The copper alloy (lining) prevails in an overwhelmingly large amount in a plain-bearing layer structure. Cu of the plain bearing copper-alloy diffuses into the Sn-based overlay diffuses into the Sn-based overlay and detrimentally impairs the performance of the overlay. The present invention takes a measure against this problem. An Sn-based overlay having a thickness of 3 to 19 μm is deposited by electro-plating without an intermediate layer for diffusion prevention on a plain-bearing layer, which contains Sn and Ni in a total amount of more than 4 mass % to 20 mass % (the minimum amount of Sn is 4 mass %) and has a hardness of Hv 150 or less.
US08440321B2	Coated article having antibacterial effect and method for making the same A coated article is described. The coated article includes a substrate, a bonding layer formed on the substrate, a plurality of nickel-chromium-nitrogen layers and a plurality of zinc layers formed on the bonding layer. The bonding layer is a nickel-chromium layer. Each nickel-chromium-nitrogen layer interleaves with one zinc layer. One of the nickel-chromium-nitrogen layers is directly formed on the bonding layer. A method for making the coated article is also described.
US08440319B2	Heat resistant polypropylene film A heat resistant film that comprises at least one layer that comprises a high crystallinity propylene polymer having a melt flow rate of from 0.5 g/10 min. to 15 g/10 min. and a xylene solubles of less than 3.5%. The propylene polymer may have a melting point above 158° C. The heat resistant film may further comprise at least a second layer, which may be a heterophasic random copolymer. The heat resistant film may be, for example, a blown film, a cast film, or an oriented film, and may be used in such articles of manufacture as construction films, retort packaging, and laminated articles.
US08440314B2	Coated cutting tools having a platinum group metal concentration gradient and related processes The present disclosure is directed to cutting tools. The disclosed cutting tools may have a wear resistant coating on a substrate. The substrate may have hard particles cemented in a binder phase. The binder may have a near-surface concentration gradient of at least one platinum group element and/or rhenium. Processes for producing cutting tools are also disclosed.
US08440305B2	Electrically conductive sheet A sheet which has a substrate layer containing from 21 to 87 mass % of a polycarbonate resin, from 7 to 68 mass % of a polyalkylene terephthalate resin and from 3 to 30 mass % of carbon black, and a surface layer containing from 19 to 86 mass % of a polycarbonate resin, from 6 to 67 mass % of a polyalkylene terephthalate resin and from 5 to 35 mass % of carbon black, laminated on one side or both sides of the substrate layer by extrusion, co-extrusion or extrusion coating, where the sheet has a burr incidence ratio of at most 4%, and a carrier tape using the sheet.
US08440299B2	Composite dielectric material for high-energy-density capacitors A composite dielectric material having a plurality of particle cores, each surrounded by polymer strands that are chemically bonded to the surface of the particle core. Each polymer strand includes a linker, through which the polymer strand is attached to the surface, an interfacial core-shielding (ICS) group bound to the linker, and a polymer molecule bound to the ICS group. The ICS groups are designed to inhibit electrical breakdown of the composite dielectric material by (i) deflecting or scattering free electrons away from the particle cores and/or (ii) capturing free electrons by being transformed into relatively stable radical anions. Representative examples of the particle core material, linker, ICS group, and polymer molecule are titanium dioxide, a phosphonate group, a halogenated aromatic ring, and a polystyrene molecule, respectively.
US08440295B2	Mechanical seal device, sliding element, and method of production thereof A sliding element having a sliding surface, wherein a substrate forming the sliding surface is formed with a resin layer, the resin layer has a plurality of porous parts on its surface, and the porous parts are impregnated with a fluorinated oil. Preferably, the resin layer contains a first resin and a second resin having a melting point higher than that of the first resin, and the porous parts of the resin layer are formed by heating the resin layer at a temperature of at least the melting point of the first resin and less than the melting point of the second resin, and exposed at the surface of the resin layer by grinding the resin layer.
US08440294B2	Structural color body A structural color body is film-like and formed of a resin layer containing a block copolymer, the resin layer has a micro-phase separated structure including lamellar micro domains, each of the micro domains has a wave-like shape having amplitudes in the thickness direction of the structural color body, and in each of the micro domains, a maximum value of distances in the direction between the tops of convexities and the bottoms of concavities is larger than the wavelength in the visible light range.
US08440291B2	Borderless emblem for securing to a first fabric A borderless emblem for securing to a first fabric by heat and/or pressure includes a fabric base, an emblem design applied to a front surface of the fabric base and a layer of thermoplastic adhesive material bonded to a rear surface of the fabric base. The first fabric has a predetermined weave pattern and a predetermined color. The fabric base has an outer peripheral edge and is constructed of the same or substantially the same fabric as the first fabric. The fabric base has a base color that is the same or substantially the same as the predetermined color. The fabric base is cut from a fabric utilizing a laser cutter which heats a portion of the fabric base proximate the outer peripheral edge. The laser cutter finishes the outer peripheral edge of the fabric base without including a stitched or other border.
US08440286B2	Capped tufted laminate web A laminate web having a nonwoven web in facing relationship with a polymer film. The laminate web has a first side comprising the polymer film and a plurality of discrete tufts including fibers integral with and extending from the nonwoven web. Each of the tufts has a tuft base proximal to the nonwoven web and a distal portion opposing the tuft base. At least part of the distal portion of each of the tufts is covered by a cap, each cap being an integral extension of said polymer film extending over the distal portion of a discrete tuft. The cap has a first opening including a location of rupture in the polymer film above which the tuft extends.
US08440282B2	Partable roll label A rolled article includes a roll of material and a holding device positioned on the roll and extending across the free end of the roll, securing the free end against an adjacent portion of the roll surface for preventing the roll from unraveling, the holding device including a base article having first and second securing regions positioned adjacent respective opposite sides of the base article and having a linking portion positioned therebetween, the first securing region secured to the roll surface on a first side of the free end and the second securing region secured to the roll on a second side of the free end, and first and second parting features disposed between respective first and second securing regions and the linking portion, wherein the parting features are configured for facilitating parting the base article between the linking portion and the securing regions to unroll the roll.
US08440278B2	Inhibitor, resin mixture containing same and use of same The use of 3-pyridinol and 5-pyrimidinol derivatives for adjusting the reactivity and the gel time of resin mixtures and/or reactive resin mortars based on radically polymerizable compounds is described. Furthermore, a resin mixture and a reactive resin mortar containing the 3-pyridinol and 5-pyrimidinol derivatives for adjusting the reaction time and the gel time, and having improved storage stability and good low temperature hardening properties, are described.
US08440277B2	Intrinsically stable shirred stick Disclosed is an intrinsically stable shirred, tubular, single-layer or multilayer food casing that preferably has a sigma-5 value (longitudinal/transversal, measured in a moist state) of less than 20/20 N/mm2. Said casing is preferably shirred at a ratio of 100:1 or more, preferably 120:1 to 500:1, and is essentially made of synthetic polymers. The shirred casing can be stored and transported without using a net-type envelope and is particularly suitable for processing on fully automatic sausage stuffing, portioning, clipping, and twisting devices.
US08440276B2	Multidirectionally reinforced shape woven preforms for composite structures The present invention relates to multidirectionally reinforced fiber preforms that conform easily to complex curvatures, such as, composite turbine fan cases, jet engine containment rings, aircraft fuselage frames, aircraft window frames, and flanged rings for attaching nacelles to aircraft engines. The present invention provides multidirectionally reinforced shape woven preforms with improved strength for composite structures that are axisymmetric as well as non-axisymmetric in nature. The invention is a preform used to reinforce a composite structure which includes a contour woven fabric portion, bi-axially braided, tri-axially braided or bias fabric portion, and/or a polar woven fabric portion, and a method of making thereof. The preform may optionally include a three-dimensionally woven portion. The combination of different forms of fabrics allows the preform to be produced without cutting and darting of the individual plies. Eliminating these cuts and darts improves the strength and performance of the resulting structure.
US08440269B2	Method for depositing thin film for magnetic recording medium A method for depositing a thin film for a magnetic recording medium includes the steps of placing a substrate for a recording medium having a magnetic recording layer thereon on a substrate holder rotatably arranged within a film deposition chamber; and supplying a plasma beam from a plasma beam formation portion to the film deposition chamber so as to form a thin film of ta-C on the magnetic recording layer. In supplying the plasma beam, an inclination angle formed by a normal line to a surface of the magnetic recording layer and a plane orthogonal to a direction of incidence of the plasma beam is changed from a minimum inclination angle to a maximum inclination angle according to an increase in film thickness of the ta-C thin film.
US08440268B2	Method and apparatus for growing plasma atomic layer Oxygen gas, for example, is introduced into a film forming chamber, and high-frequency power is supplied to a plurality of monopole antennas arranged above a silicon substrate (101) in the film forming chamber to generate a plasma of the introduced oxygen gas, thereby supplying atomic oxygen (123) onto the surface of an aminosilane molecular layer (102). This plasma generation is performed for about 1 sec. With this operation, the adsorption layer (102) adsorbed onto the surface of the silicon substrate (101) is oxidized, thereby forming a silicon oxide layer (112) corresponding to one atomic layer of silicon on the surface of the silicon substrate (101).
US08440266B2	Developing device, developing method and storage medium A developer nozzle supplies a developer onto the surface of a substrate rotating around a vertical axis, while a pure water nozzle supplies pure water onto the surface of the rotating substrate. The pure water nozzle is spaced apart from the developer nozzle and located on an outer side of the substrate with respect to the developer nozzle. The pure water restricts flow of the developer on the substrate and causes the developer to spread toward a clockwise side of the substrate when the substrate rotates in a clockwise direction. A liquid film containing the developer and the pure water is formed on the substrate. The developer nozzle and the pure water nozzle are spaced apart from each other to suppress splattering of the developer and the pure water due to collision of the developer with the pure water.
US08440261B2	Housing and surface treating method for making the same A surface treating method for making a housing have a metallic glass main body comprising: coating a primer on the metallic glass main body to form a bottom layer; forming a plating layer on the bottom layer; coating an adhesive on the plating layer to form an adhesive layer; and coating a lacquer on the adhesive layer to form an outer layer.
US08440259B2	Vapor based combinatorial processing A combinatorial processing chamber and method are provided. In the method a fluid volume flows over a surface of a substrate with differing portions of the fluid volume having different constituent components to concurrently expose segregated regions of the substrate to a mixture of the constituent components that differ from constituent components to which adjacent regions are exposed. Differently processed segregated regions are generated through the multiple flowings.
US08440258B2	Thin films of conjugated polymers containing inorganic nanoparticles and process for the manufacture thereof The invention relates to a process for the non-covalent coating of a support by a hybrid organic/inorganic film, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: —depositing a conjugated organic polymer comprising organic groups of X type onto the support; depositing nanoparticles comprising one or more organic groups of Y type onto the support, and in that the groups of X and Y types are capable of developing hydrogen-type bonds between themselves. Typically, the deposition steps are repeated, generally alternately, until the desired thickness for the film is obtained. The deposition may be carried out on the whole of the support or on one part of the latter only.
US08440255B2	Method of making heat treated coated article using diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating and protective film There is provided a method of making a heat treated (HT) coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, or any other suitable applications where transparent coated articles are desired. For example, certain embodiments of this invention relate to a method of making a coated article including a step of heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least a layer of or including diamond-like carbon (DLC) and an overlying protective film thereon. In certain example embodiments, the protective film may be of or include both (a) an oxygen blocking or barrier layer, and (b) a release layer. Following and/or during heat treatment (e.g., thermal tempering, or the like) the protective film may be removed. Other embodiments of this invention relate to the pre-HT coated article, or the post-HT coated article.
US08440249B2	Process for the preparation of an edible dispersion comprising oil and structuring agent The invention relates to a process for the preparation of an edible dispersion comprising oil and structuring agent and one or more of an aqueous phase and/or a solid phase, in which the dispersion is formed by mixing oil, solid structuring agent particles and the aqueous phase and/or the solid phase, wherein the solid structuring agent particles have a microporous structure of submicron size particles.
US08440248B2	Reduced sugar citrus juice beverage Citrus juice beverage products and their method of production are formulated to reduce the sugar content of the beverage while the beverage products have sensory, taste, mouth feel and texture characteristics that mimic those of whole citrus juice. Orange juice beverage products are especially preferred. The beverage products have a relatively low Brix, on the order of between about 7 and about 8 Brix. Also included in the beverage products is a sweetener which does not add a significant caloric load to the beverage product. A sinking pulp added to the beverage product in an amount to achieve texture and other sensory characteristics of a whole juice.
US08440247B2	Method of flavoring teas using wood, and flavored teas prepared thereby The present invention relates to a method for preparing flavored teas by using wood, and flavored teas prepared thereby. More specifically, the present invention relates to a preparation method of flavored teas with excellent palatability and flavors in which the method uses natural wood along with the appropriate flavoring time and temperature settings, and flavored teas prepared thereby.
US08440246B2	Beverage packed in container By containing non-polymer catechins in high concentration, the physiological effects of the catechins are manifested, minerals indispensable to the living body are fortified, and the storage stability of a beverage is improved. A packaged beverage containing: (A) from 0.05 to 0.5% by mass of non-polymer catechins; (B) from 0.0012 to 0.12% by mass of calcium; (C) from 0.00012 to 0.006% by mass of magnesium; (D) from 0.000048 to 0.0024% by mass of zinc; (E) from 0.00004 to 0.002% by mass of iron; and (F) from 0.01 to 20% by mass of a sweetener, wherein a content mass ratio [(B)/(A)] of the calcium (B) to the non-polymer catechins (A) is from 0.001 to 1.0; (J) a percentage of gallate bodies in the non-polymer catechins is from 5 to 55% by mass; and pH is from 2.5 to 5.1.
US08440243B2	OM vitamin formula A composition comprising various vitamins to make a multi-vitamin. The vitamins identified in multi-vitamin include vitamin B-1, vitamin B-2, niacinamide, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, pantothenic acid, folic acid, beta carotene, iron, biotin, choline, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin C. The multi-vitamin soothe pain, depression, weakness and insomnia and works best with variety of food and less dairy products. Lead combined with calcium effects are severe than lead effects only; it elevates blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, weight and cause frequent infections; bigger than normal dose of antibiotics need in infections; and variation in quantities of few vitamins are needed to soothe the symptoms.
US08440242B1	Alcohol metabolizing assisting supplement A alcohol metabolizing assisting supplement includes a mixture which includes humic and fulvic acids, L-Cysteine, L-Glutamine, thiamine mononitrate, and vitamins. The mixture is ingested after the consumption of alcohol to assist the body in quickly metabolizing the alcohol and to resist the negative effects of metabolizing alcohol.
US08440229B2	Hollow silica nanospheres and methods of making same The disclosure provide hollow nanospheres and methods of making and using the same. The methods and compositions of the disclosure are useful for drug delivery and gene transfer.
US08440224B2	Multi-component pharmaceutical dosage form A multi-component pharmaceutical dosage form comprising a plurality of drug substance—containing sub-units, being capsule compartments and/or solid sub-units comprising a solid matrix of a polymer which contains a drug substance, the sub-units being connected together in the assembled dosage form by a weld between parts of the assembled dosage form.
US08440222B2	Reservoir system with closed membrane A dermal or transdermal therapeutic system comprising a reservoir that contains at least one active substance, an active substance-permeable membrane which delimits the active-substance reservoir, and a closing layer. The closing layer is impermeable to the active substance at a temperature lying below the skin temperature while being permeable at skin temperature and above.
US08440220B2	Transdermal analgesic systems with reduced abuse potential A transdermal analgesic system having reduced potential for abuse, wherein the system provides for the controlled release of the antagonist at a rate sufficient to provide an abuse limiting release rate ratio of the antagonist to the analgesic when the dosage form is subject to abuse is disclosed.
US08440216B2	Sustained release intraocular implants and related methods Biocompatible intraocular implants include a steroid and a polymer associated with each other to facilitate release of the steroid into an eye for a period of time greater than about two months. The steroid may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. Or, the steroid may be associated with a polymeric coating having one or more openings effective to permit the steroid to be released into an external environment. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions. The steroid is released from the implant for more than about two months, and may be release for more than several years.
US08440214B2	Medical devices for therapeutic agent delivery with polymeric regions that contain copolymers having both soft segments and uniform length hard segments Implantable or insertable medical devices are described, which include one or more polymeric regions and one or more therapeutic agents. The polymeric regions, which regulate the release of one or more therapeutic agent from the medical device, contain copolymer molecules, each of which includes one or more soft segments and one or more uniform hard segments (e.g., polyamide segments that do not vary in length from molecule to molecule, among others).
US08440213B2	Pesticides formulations Concentrated microemulsions comprising: 1) 10-25 parts by weight of a pesticide with a solubility in water at 20° C. lower than 1% l by weight and having a melting point from 10° C. to 60° C.; 2) 8-25 parts by weight of one or more solvents containing oxygen atoms, having a solubility in water at 20° C. lower than 5% by weight and the Hildebrand solubility parameter in the range 16-21 MPa1/2; 3) 10-20 parts by weight of a polyol; 4) 10-25 parts by weight of one or more non ionic surfactants having a HLB value from 9 to 15; 5) 2-10 parts by weight of one or more anionic surfactants; 6) water up to 100 parts by weight; wherein—the ratio by weight between 2) and 1) ranges from 0.8:1 to 1.5:1;—the ratio by weight between 4) +5) and 1) is in the range 0.5:1-3:1;—the ratio by weight between 4) and 5) ranges from 1:1 to 4.1.
US08440209B2	Adhesive for medical applications and means for haemostasis The invention relates to adhesives for medical applications and methods of their preparation and use.
US08440206B2	Methods for producing an immune response to tuberculosis Methods for producing an immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) are disclosed herein. In several examples, the immune response is a protective immune response. In additional embodiments, methods are disclosed for preventing an infection with Mtb, or treating an infection with Mtb. Pharmaceutical compositions for the prevention and/or treatment of tuberculosis are also disclosed.
US08440204B2	Subtype of Closteridium botulinum neurotoxin type A and uses thereof A novel subtype of type A botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT/A) is disclosed in the application. Methods to purify the neurotoxin as well as uses thereof are also disclosed.
US08440203B2	Methods of immunizing pregnant heifers at three months of gestation The present invention discloses methods for protecting newborn calves against neonatal diarrhea by vaccinating pregnant cows and/or pregnant heifers, while minimizing the number of separate occasions producers are required to assemble the cattle.
US08440201B2	Stabilized bioactive peptides and methods of identification, synthesis, and use An intracellular selection system allows screening for peptide bioactivity and stability. Randomized recombinant peptides are screened for bioactivity in a tightly regulated expression system, preferably derived from the wild-type lac operon. Bioactive peptides thus identified are inherently protease- and peptidase-resistant. Also provided are bioactive peptides stabilized by a stabilizing group at the N-terminus, the C-terminus, or both. The stabilizing group can be a small stable protein, such as the Rop protein, glutathione sulfotransferase, thioredoxin, maltose binding protein, or glutathione reductase, an α-helical moiety, or one or more proline residues.
US08440198B2	Compositions and methods for wound healing The present invention is related to the field of wound healing or tissue regeneration due to disease (i.e., for example, cardiovascular diseases, osetoarthritic diseases, or diabetes). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods comprising molecules with linked α-gal epitopes for induction of an inflammatory response localized within or surrounding damaged tissue. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for tissue repair in normal subjects and in subjects having impaired healing capabilities, such as diabetic and aged subjects.
US08440197B2	KID3 and KID3 antibodies that bind thereto The invention provides the identification and characterization of disease and cancer-associated epitope, KID3. The invention also provides a family of monoclonal antibodies that bind to KID3, methods of diagnosing and treating various human cancers and diseases that express KID3.
US08440192B2	Bispecific binding agents for modulating biological activity Methods for improving the biological and pharmaceutical properties of bispecific binding agents are described herein where the bispecific binding agents are able to target cells by a high affinity binding domain to a first cell surface marker that does not induce a significant biological effect and a low affinity binding domain that binds specifically to a second cell surface marker, causing a significant and desired biological effect. Compositions of such bispecific binding agents, uses for them, and kits containing them are also provided.
US08440191B2	Clearance of abnormal IGA1 in IGA1 deposition diseases The present invention relates to proteins which specifically bind to IgA1 and which have been modified to comprise either O- or N-linked glycans. The invention encompasses methods for decreasing IgA1, preferably abnormally glycosylated IgA1, in an individual by administering to the individual a glycan-modified IgA1 binding protein of the invention. The invention also encompasses a method for the treatment of a disease characterized by IgA1 deposition wherein a glycan-modified IgA1 binding protein is administered to an individual in need thereof.
US08440186B2	P2X7 epitopes The invention relates to purinergic (P2X) receptors, more specifically to P2X7 receptors, the generation of antibodies and the use of antibodies and immunogens that are capable of selectively binding to a non ATP-binding P2X7 receptor but not to an ATP-binding P2X7 receptor, for the detection and treatment of disease conditions, especially cancer.
US08440184B2	Compositions of engineered human arginases and methods for treating cancer Compositions and methods for the treatment of cancer are described, and, more preferably, to the treatment of cancers that do not express, or are otherwise deficient in, argininosuccinate synthetase, with enzymes that deplete L-Arginine in serum. In one embodiment, the present invention contemplates an arginase protein, such as a human Arginase I protein, comprising at least one amino acid substitution and a metal cofactor, said protein comprising an increased catalytic activity when compared with a native human Arginase I.
US08440182B2	Methods and compositions for treating phenylketonuria Provided herein are methods for treating a subject suffering from phenylketonuria by administering a phenylalanine hydroxylase (“PAH”) and/or a phenylalanine ammonia lyase (“PAL”) to the subject under conditions effective to deliver the phenylalanine 4-hydroxylase and/or PAL to the subject's small intestine. Also provided are methods for increasing the therapeutic activity of a phenylalanine 4-hydroxylase by thiolating the phenylalanine 4-hydroxylase. In addition, provided are oral dosage forms that include a phenylalanine 4-hydroxylase and/or a PAL and an enteric coating.
US08440181B2	Prevention of micronutrient deficiencies associated with common disabilities in the over 50 adult A micronutrient dosage unit which comprises two or more micronutrients selected from vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, zinc, boron and chromium in one or more specified ratios. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US08440179B2	Agent for reducing visceral fat Provide a visceral fat reducing agent for reducing the diseases and conditions associated with the metabolic syndrome which represents a condition where various risk factors such as those for hypertension, hyperlipemia, glucose tolerance dysfunction, etc., have accumulated, or simply reducing an accumulation of visceral fat, wherein the effective ingredient of said visceral fat reducing agent includes fungus bodies of lactic bacteria, especially lactic bacteria belonging to the Lactobacillus sp. and Lactococcus sp. and/or cultures thereof, while also providing a beverage, food or feed containing said visceral fat reducing agent.
US08440178B2	Lactobacillus rhamnosus and weight control The present invention generally relates to the field of obesity. In particular the present invention relates to the use of probiotics to treat obesity. One embedment of the present invention relates to the use of Lactobacillus rhamnosus CGMCC 1.3724 and/or Lactobacillus rhamnosus NCC 4007 for the preparation of a composition to support weight management, promote weight loss and/or to treat obesity.
US08440171B2	Composition and its physical requirements for eliminating odors in air An air treating composition for eliminating odors from air in combination with specific spray valve and actuator requirements and spray performance parameters providing maximum dispersion of the active component in the composition into the air is disclosed. The particles of the composition are small so that the active component is dispersed into air as a fine dispersion to provide more contact with odors and to provide quick absorption of odors. The particle size of the composition is controlled through the selection of valve and actuator dimensions. The air treating and odor eliminating composition of the invention includes water, a low molecular weight polyol, an emulsifier, and a propellant. The composition may also include additional adjuvants such as solvent(s), fragrance(s), corrosion inhibitor, pH adjustor and the like.
US08440169B2	Stable isotope-labeled aromatic amino acids, method for incorporating the same in target protein and method for NMR-structural analysis of proteins The present invention herein provides, for instance, a stable isotope-labeled phenylalanine wherein a carbon atom of the phenyl group linked to an amino acid residue is 13C, 2 to 4 carbon atoms of the remaining 5 carbon atoms constituting the phenyl group are 12C atoms to which deuterium atoms are bonded, and the remaining carbon atoms are 13C atoms to which hydrogen atoms are linked, and a stable isotope-labeled tyrosine wherein a carbon atom of the phenyl group linked to an amino acid residue is 13C, the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl group (OH group) of the phenyl group is 12C or 13C, 2 to 4 carbon atoms of the remaining 4 carbon atoms constituting the phenyl group are 12C atoms to which deuterium atoms are bonded, and the remaining carbon atoms are 13C atoms to which hydrogen atoms are linked. The stable isotope-labeled amino acid permits the elimination of such a conventional problem concerning the complexity of the NMR signals ascribed to aromatic rings, the complexity being a principal cause of making the NMR analysis difficult, encountered when using the conventional uniformly labeled amino acid residue. Moreover, the isotope-labeled amino acid likewise permits the substantial improvement of the sensitivity thereof to the NMR spectroscopic analysis.
US08440167B2	Multimodal imaging of atherosclerotic plaque targeted to LOX-1 The present invention provides multiple modalities for detecting LOX-1. More particularly, an imaging composition is provided that allows for the in vivo imaging of atherosclerotic plaque.
US08440166B1	Method of synthesizing a novel absorbent titanosilicate material (UPRM-5) A titanium silicate variant named UPRM-5 was prepared using tetraethylammonium hydroxide as a structure-directing agent (SDA). Successful detemplation was achieved via ion exchange with NH4Cl. Effective functionalization was obtained after ion exchanging the detemplated material using SrCl2 and BaCl2. Adsorption of CO2 at 25° C. in Sr- and Ba-UPRM-5 materials activated at different temperatures. For low partial pressures, the observed CO2 adsorption capacities increased as follows: NH4-UPRM-5
US08440163B2	Slaked lime composition and its manufacturing process The invention relates to a slaked lime composition containing Ca(OH)2 particles of platelet crystalline morphology, called platelets, said platelets having a diameter D, this being the diameter of the circle circumscribing the platelet, a thickness e and an aspect ratio given by the ratio of said diameter of the platelet-circumscribing circle to said thickness, said composition having a platelet content of between 50 and 100% relative to the sum of the Ca(OH)2 particles and said aspect ratio being between 10 and 300, and to its manufacturing process.
US08440161B2	Ammonium paratungstate hydrates and ammonium paratungstate decahydrate The invention is directed to ammonium paratungstate decahydrate containing at least 75% of crystals having a length of at least 200 μm and having a ratio of length to width of less than 4.5:1.
US08440160B1	Integrated sulfur recovery methods in power plants and low BTU gas fields This disclosure relates generally to processes for the production of elemental sulfur from Syngas, in the power plant, or Low BTU Gas fields and more particularly to processes the mixture of the 100% syngas or low BTU stream with the 100% SO2 recycle gas; with an additional stream comprising oxygen such as air, oxygen-enriched air, or substantially pure oxygen is added to the SO2 recycle stream prior entering the Claus reactor for producing elemental sulfur. The combination of innovation schemes comprises the sulfur recovery unit, the SO2 recovery unit and the gas turbines or boilers to promote a cost effective options by reducing the number of steps in an efficient manner and to achieve near 100% sulfur recovery with significant cost and energy saving. The SO2 gas is recycled from the SO2 recovery unit to the sulfur recovery unit by using one of the regenerable solvent.
US08440159B2	Method for extracting ammonium salt and methanol from a liquid obtained from foul condensates in a cellulose pulp mill Desirable chemicals are recovered from a raw material that is formed in substantial amounts during the production of cellulose pulp from renewable lingo-cellulose material. An ammonia/ammonium-containing methanol/water mixture is acidified with an acid that has the ability of forming ammonium salt with the ammonium. The mixture is circulated and passed through an apparatus that has an indirect heat exchanger combined with an storage volume fitted with a gas collection device.
US08440157B2	Methods and apparatuses for manufacturing cast silicon from seed crystals Methods and apparatuses are provided for casting silicon for photovoltaic cells and other applications. With these methods, an ingot can be grown that is low in carbon and whose crystal growth is controlled to increase the cross-sectional area of seeded material during casting.
US08440153B2	Method for preparing manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate from waste batteries containing manganese and zinc A method for preparing manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate from waste batteries containing manganese and zinc, and more particularly to a method for preparing manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate from waste batteries containing manganese and zinc. Zinc powder and activated carbon are added to a leached solution obtained from a continuous leaching process so as to remove heavy metals and organic materials from the leached solution, and then the leached solution is spray-dried to simultaneously obtain manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate at high-purity by a simple process without generating wastewater. An environmentally friendly waste battery recycling process is thereby provided, because it is not required to use additional chemical substances for neutralization titration or impurity removal in recovering manganese sulfate and zinc sulfate by leaching a waste battery powder.
US08440150B2	Hydrophobic valve The present invention relates to a hydrophobic valve for liquids having an appreciable surface tension comprising magnetic particles, said device comprising at least two planar solid substrates with a functionalized surface each, wherein at least a first solid substrate has a patterned surface comprising at least two hydrophilic areas separated from one another by at least one hydrophobic area, wherein the said two planar substrates are disposed with a distance to one another in a sandwiched, parallel fashion, in such way that said functionalized surfaces are facing one another, said valve further comprising a magnetic actuator.
US08440148B2	Microfluidic device and microfluidic analysis equipment Provided are a microfluidic device and a microfluidic analysis equipment. The microfluidic device includes guides disposed along both edges, a lower plate including a flow path defined between the guides, and a movable upper plate moved along the guides on the lower plate and having a length less than that the flow path. A fluid flow can be simply accurately controlled by adjusting a position of the movable upper plate. As a result, the fluid can sufficiently react in the detection part and the reaction part. Therefore, effective reaction and detection can be realized using only a small amount of fluid, thereby improving sensitivity. In addition, due to the improved sensitivity, a washing process for removing materials that are not consumed in the reaction can be omitted. Also, the movable upper plate can be manually moved using a user's finger.
US08440137B2	Au bonding wire for semiconductor device An Au bonding wire for semiconductor device, comprising a wire-shaped Au alloy material consisting of: 3-15 mass ppm of Be, 3-40 mass ppm of Ca, 3-20 mass ppm of La, 3-20 mass ppm of at least one functional element selected from the group of Ce, Eu, Mg, and Si, and the remainder of Au, wherein the diameter of said Au alloy bonding wire is less than 23 microns, wherein said bonding wire has improved roundness of compressed bonded ball and improved fracture stress.
US08440133B2	Cooling apparatus, cooling method, manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method of hot-rolled steel sheet The present invention provides a cooling apparatus of a hot-rolled steel sheet capable of manufacturing a hot-rolled steel sheet having ultra fine crystal grains. In the cooling apparatus, when defining as L1, a length in a transporting direction of a steel sheet, of a zone from a rolling reduction point in a final stand to an exit side of a housing post; defining as L2, a length in the transporting direction of the steel sheet, of an area where high-pressure water is continuously sprayed over the steel sheet, within the zone; and defining a ratio of L2/L1 as X, an average value Ps [kPa], in the transporting direction of the steel sheet, of an impact pressure of the high-pressure water on a surface of the steel sheet in the area of the length L2 satisfies Ps≧2.5X(−1/0.6) on the above upper surface and lower surface of the steel sheet.
US08440129B2	Production of free-standing solid state layers by thermal processing of substrates with a polymer In a method for producing a free-standing solid state layer, a solid state material is provided having at least one surface available for layer formation thereon and a layer of polymer is formed on the available surface. The solid state material and polymer layer are then exposed to a change in local temperature from a first temperature that is no greater than about 300° C. to a second temperature below about room temperature to cause the solid state material to fracture along a plane at a depth in the material, to produce at least one free-standing solid state layer from the solid state material.
US08440128B2	Flexible magnetic sheet systems Flexible magnetic sheets made with high-energy strontium ferrite and oriented magnetic particles of strontium ferrite and barium ferrite, such as to decrease thickness while maintaining a strong magnetic energy as well as flexibility.
US08440126B2	Carrier mold A carrier mold having prongs that produces shaped tampons is provided. A carrier mold comprising an outer surface, an inner surface, a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a body, and two or more prongs, each prong having a proximal base and a distal end; wherein at least one prong is in partial contact with at least one other prong; wherein the inner surface defines an inner cavity for producing a shaped tampon; wherein the inner cavity is structured to define or mirror the desired shape of the shaped tampon; and wherein the shaped tampon has a length and comprises various perimeters along its length. A method of forming a shaped tampon using the carrier mold is also provided.
US08440125B2	Polyethylene films having high resistance to deformation or elongation Disclosed is a method for producing polyethylene films which have high resistance to deformation or elongation under loading in tension. The method comprises orienting in the machine direction (MD) a high density polyethylene film at a draw-down ratio effective to give the film an MD tensile strength at yield greater than or equal to 50,000 psi, wherein the HDPE has a density greater than 0.940 g/cm3.
US08440122B2	Introducer sheath and methods of making An introducer sheath and methods of making the introducer sheath are described. The introducer sheath may include a hub portion and a tubular portion. The hub portion may include a substantially non-planar valve portion in a relaxed state. The valve portion may include an aperture configured to receive a medical device. A hub portion may be formed using a forming device. An aperture may be formed through a distal surface of the valve portion.
US08440121B2	High-dielectric material A bulk dielectric material can include a solid composite material having a solid matrix material and a plurality of filler elements distributed within the matrix material. The bulk dielectric material can have, at a frequency of greater than 1 MHz, (i) a permittivity with a real part of magnitude greater than 10 and an imaginary part of magnitude less than 3, and (ii) an electrical breakdown strength greater than 5 kV/mm and can have a minimum dimension greater than 2 mm.
US08440118B2	Master mold, master mold fabrication method, and method for fabricating liquid crystal display device using the same A method for fabricating a liquid crystal display (LCD) device wherein a photolithography technique is replaced by soft lithography is disclosed. The method includes: forming a thin film transistor array substrate; forming a color filter substrate; bonding the thin film transistor array substrate and the color filter substrate; and applying a liquid crystal between the thin film transistor array substrate and the color filter substrate, wherein at least one of the forming the thin film transistor array substrate and the forming the color filter substrate includes a pattern forming method using a soft mold. The pattern forming method may be a soft lithography process that includes: contacting a soft mold having a particular pattern with a surface of a buffer layer and applying a constant heat to the soft mold and buffer layer to transfer the particular pattern onto the buffer layer.
US08440117B2	Biaxial-optical polynorbornene-based film and method of manufacturing the same, integrated optical compensation polarizer having the film and method of manufacturing the polarizer, and liquid crystal display panel containing the film and/or polarizer Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a biaxial polynorbornene-film having a compensation film which has good light transmittance and a uniform in-plane retardation value and can function as both a negative C-plate and an A-plate.
US08440114B2	Methods and materials for CAIGAS aluminum-containing photovoltaics This invention relates to methods for materials using compounds, polymeric compounds, and compositions used to prepare semiconductor and optoelectronic materials and devices including thin film and band gap materials. This invention provides a range of compounds, polymeric compounds, compositions, materials and methods directed ultimately toward photovoltaic applications, transparent conductive materials, as well as devices and systems for energy conversion, including solar cells. This invention further relates to thin film CA(I,G,A)S, CAIGAS, A(I,G,A)S, AIGAS, C(I,G,A)S, and CIGAS materials made by a process of providing one or more polymeric precursor compounds or inks thereof, providing a substrate, depositing the compounds or inks onto the substrate; and heating the substrate at a temperature of from about 20° C. to about 650° C.
US08440113B2	Lithium manganate for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, process for producing the same, and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery The present invention aims at providing lithium manganate having a high output and an excellent high-temperature stability. The above aim can be achieved by lithium manganate particles having a primary particle diameter of not less than 1 μm and an average particle diameter (D50) of kinetic particles of not less than 1 μm and not more than 10 μm, which are substantially in the form of single crystal particles and have a composition represented by the following chemical formula: Li1+xMn2−x−yYyO4 in which Y is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Al, Mg and Co; x and y satisfy 0.03≦x≦0.15 and 0.05≦y≦0.20, respectively, wherein the Y element is uniformly dispersed within the respective particles, and an intensity ratio of I(400)/I(111) thereof is not less than 33% and an intensity ratio of I(440)/I(111) thereof is not less than 16%.
US08440112B2	Electrode material for vacuum circuit breaker and method of manufacturing the same Atomized Cu—Cr alloy powder, 20 to 30 percent by weight of Thermite Cr powder and 5 percent by weight of electrolytic Cu powder are mixed together and undergo solid phase sintering treatment to form an electrode material for vacuum circuit breakers. The gross content of Cr of the electrode material is 30 to 50 percent by weight. In manufacturing the electrode material for vacuum circuit breakers, such powders are mixed together and then undergo compression molding to be formed into a compressed compact. The compressed compact is performed solid phase sintering at a temperature lower than the melting point of Cu in a non-oxidizing atmosphere to prepare a solid phase sintered body.
US08440107B2	Catalytic reforming methods A catalytic reforming method is disclosed herein. The method includes sequentially supplying a plurality of feedstocks of variable compositions to a reformer. The method further includes adding a respective predetermined co-reactant to each of the plurality of feedstocks to obtain a substantially constant output from the reformer for the plurality of feedstocks. The respective predetermined co-reactant is based on a C/H/O atomic composition for a respective one of the plurality of feedstocks and a predetermined C/H/O atomic composition for the substantially constant output.
US08440104B2	Kimzeyite garnet phosphors A phosphor of formula I is included in a phosphor composition in a lighting apparatus capable of emitting white light, Ca3-x-zSrxCezM12M2AlSiO12 (I) wherein M1 is Hf, Zr, or a combination thereof; M2 is Al, or a combination of Al and Ga; z<3−x; and 0.2>x≧0. The lighting apparatus includes a semiconductor light source in addition to the phosphor composition.
US08440103B2	Binder resin composition and inorganic fine particle-dispersed paste composition It is an object of the present invention to provide a binder resin composition usable for an inorganic fine particle-dispersed paste composition which is excellent in thixotropy and storage stability, has scarcely changeable screen printability with the lapse of time, and can be fired at a low temperature, and to provide the inorganic fine particle-dispersed paste composition.The present invention is directed to a binder resin composition, which contains a binder comprising a (meth)acrylic resin, an organic compound having 3 or more hydroxyl groups, and an organic solvent, the content of the organic compound having 3 or more hydroxyl groups being 0.1 to 15 parts by weight to 100 parts by weight of the (meth)acrylic resin.
US08440102B2	Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device An object is to provide a liquid crystal composition which exhibits a blue phase in a wide temperature range. Another object is to provide a liquid crystal composition which exhibits a blue phase, with which high contrast can be provided, in a liquid crystal display device. A liquid crystal composition which exhibits a blue phase includes: a nematic liquid crystal including a compound represented by a structural formula (100) (PPEP-5FCNF (abbreviation)); and a chiral agent. In a liquid crystal display device, a liquid crystal layer is formed using the liquid crystal composition including a nematic liquid crystal including a compound represented by a structural formula (100) (PPEP-5FCNF (abbreviation)) and a chiral agent, and the liquid crystal composition exhibits a blue phase.
US08440101B2	Liquid crystal composition containing polymerizable compound and liquid crystal display element using the same Provided are a liquid crystal composition containing, as a first component, a polymerizable compound represented by general formula (I): R11—S11-L11-(M11-L12)m-M12-L13-(M13-L14)n-Z11 (I) and a liquid crystal display element using the liquid crystal composition.
US08440096B2	Environmentally benign anti-icing or deicing fluids Deicing compositions comprised of hydroxyl-containing organic compounds and/or organic acid salts are disclosed.
US08440094B1	Method of polishing a substrate A process for chemical mechanical polishing of a substrate having a polysilicon overburden deposited over silicon dioxide is provided using multiple dilutions of a chemical mechanical polishing composition concentrate to polish the substrate, wherein a first dilution of the concentrate used to polish the substrate is tuned to exhibit a first polysilicon removal rate and a first polysilicon to silicon dioxide removal rate selectivity; and wherein a second dilution of the concentrate used to polish the substrate is tuned to exhibit a second polysilicon removal rate and a second polysilicon to silicon dioxide removal rate selectivity.
US08440093B1	Methods and devices for electronic and magnetic sensing of the contents of microfluidic flow channels The presence of a detectable entity within a detection volume of a microfabricated elastomeric structure is sensed through a change in the electrical or magnetic environment of the detection volume. In embodiments utilizing electronic detection, an electric field is applied to the detection volume and a change in impedance, current, or combined impedance and current due to the presence of the detectable entity is measured. In embodiments utilizing magnetic detection, the magnetic properties of a magnetized detected entity alter the magnetic field of the detection volume. This changed magnetic field induces a current which can reveal the detectable entity. The change in resistance of a magnetoresistive element may also reveal the passage of a magnetized detectable entity.
US08440087B2	Thickeners having self-diluting feedwell A thickening tank has a peripheral overflow launder and a centrally disposed feed well. Feedstock slurry is fed to a mixing box which also receives supernatant liquid and is supplemented by flocculated material flowing into the interior of the feed well onto a distributor baffle plate. The supernatant liquid is delivered at a controlled rate from a receiving vessel formed by an upright cylinder provided at its lower end with an impeller of a lift pump which is operated by a controller positioned at the upper end of a vertical drive shaft extending axially through the receiving vessel. The feed well is surrounded by a second launder which is closed at its base and formed with a cup. The lower end of the receiving vessel is spaced from the floor of the cup to draw supernatant liquid exclusively from the second launder rather than from the thickener tank.
US08440084B2	Washable anaerobic digester with fixed biofilm An effluent treatment apparatus which is a flushed anaerobic digester with fixed biofilm (FAD system) is disclosed. The FAD system creates and maintains an optimum environment for the development and activity of anaerobic bacteria. The FAD system can be used for all treatment methods for anaerobic bacteria, regardless of function. The FAD system is intended for the production of biogas.
US08440083B2	Replaceable filter elements including plural filter media and related filtration systems, techniques and methods One embodiment is a filter element including an outer filter media and an inner filter media. The outer filter media is operable to remove particulates present in a flow of fluid and/or coalesce water contained in the flow of fluid. The inner filter media is operable to remove particulates from the flow of fluid, separate water form the flow of fluid, and remove particulates from the flow of fluid. Other embodiments include unique apparatus, devices, systems, and methods relating to fuel filters and filtration. Further embodiments, forms, objects, features, advantages, aspects, and benefits of the present application shall become apparent from the detailed description and figures included herewith.
US08440081B2	Quick drain filter An apparatus, system, and method for a quick-drain filter includes a cylindrical filter element, a cylindrical interior volume disposed axially through the element, an end plate disposed on an axial end of the element, and a housing within which the element and end plate are disposed, the housing and element having a common axis. A stand pipe is disposed axially through the housing and configured to extend into the interior volume. A service drain passage is disposed at an axial end of the housing, the drain passage being configured to be disposed axially adjacent the end plate, and a plug is disposed on the end plate, the plug being configured to plug the drain passage.
US08440072B2	Method of removing metals from hydrocarbon feedstock using esters of carboxylic acids Method of removing metals from hydrocarbon feedstock using esters of carboxylic acids, and additives for the same, are provided, wherein hydrocarbon stream including crude oil containing metals and salts thereof, wherein metal is calcium and its salt is calcium naphthenate, is mixed with an effective metal-removing-amount of an aqueous extraction-solution of non-precipitating and non-fouling additive comprising a chemical compound selected from a group consisting of methyl or ethyl or propyl or isopropyl mono- and/or di-esters of any one of the carboxylic acids selected from the groups consisting of maleic acid, maleic anhydride, and fumaric acid, or an appropriate combination of said esters, or an appropriate combination of any of said esters with any of said carboxylic acids to form a hydrocarbonous phase and an aqueous phase containing the metal ions; and separating aqueous phase.
US08440069B2	Methods of isolating and using components from a high solvency dispersive power (HSDP) crude oil Method of isolating active resins from a high solvency dispersive power (HSDP) crude oil includes providing a HSDP crude oil, deasphalting the HSDP crude oil into at least a deasphalted oil (DAO) fraction and a first asphaltenes fraction, deasphalting the first asphaltenes fraction to isolate active resins from a second asphaltenes fraction, and combining the DAO fraction and the second asphaltenes fraction to form a de-resinated crude. Method of using components isolated from a high solvency dispersive power (HSDP) crude oil includes providing a HSDP crude oil, deasphalting the HSDP crude oil into at least a deasphalted oil (DAO) fraction and a first asphaltenes fraction, deasphalting the first asphaltenes fraction to isolate active resins from a second asphaltenes fraction, and selecting at least one of the DAO fraction, the active resins, or the second asphaltenes fraction for use in a refinery process.
US08440067B2	Process for removing water from alkali metal amalgam The invention relates to a process for removing small amounts of water and possible further constituents from alkali metal amalgam, wherein the alkali metal amalgam is brought into contact with an element which is insoluble in mercury and catalyzes the reaction of water with the alkali metal amalgam and the possible further constituents to form hydroxides and hydrogen.
US08440065B1	Electrolyte composition, method, and improved apparatus for high speed tin-silver electroplating The invention provides an electroplating composition, method, and improved apparatus, which enables electroplating tin-silver alloys at high speed and without burning. The composition is an aqueous acidic solution including salts of stannous tin and a monovalent silver, and a complexing agent selected from the group consisting of thiocarbazides and thiohydrazides, and optionally an aldehyde and/or dialdehyde organic brightener compound. A sulfonic acid and a surfactant may also be included. The improved apparatus provides a protective structure substantially surrounding the anode(s) to decrease turbulence and the problematic silver displacement reaction.
US08440063B2	Electrokinetic concentration devices The present invention provides a device and methods of use thereof in concentrating a species of interest and/or controlling liquid flow in a device. The methods make use of a device comprising a fluidic chip comprising a planar array of channels through which a liquid comprising a species of interest can be made to pass with at least one rigid substrate connected thereto such that at least a portion of a surface of the substrate bounds the channels, and a high aspect ratio ion-selective membrane is embedded within the chip, attached to at least a portion of the channels. The device comprises a unit to induce an electric field in the channel and a unit to induce an electrokinetic or pressure driven flow in the channel.
US08440060B2	High surface area electrode coating An electrode surface coating for manufacturing the electrode surface coating comprising a conductive substrate; and one or more surface coatings comprising one or more of the following metals titanium, niobium, tantalum, ruthenium, rhodium, iridium, palladium, or gold, or an alloy of two or more metals, or a combination of two or more alloys or metal layers thereof having an increase in the surface area of 5 times to 500 times of the corresponding surface area resulting from the basic geometric shape.
US08440057B2	Linked coke drum support A linked coke drum connection to minimize the stresses experienced by the joint between the coke drum and the supporting structure of the coke drum is described. The connection may be attached to a circumferential connection plate attached to the coke drum or directly to the drum. Some embodiments connect to a segmented circumferential connection plate. The connection includes a coke drum link, a connecting link, and a ground link. The links are pivotally connected with connecting pins. As the coke drum is heated and expands, the connecting link pivots outwardly about a point centered in the connecting pin in the ground link.
US08440054B2	Calender for calendering a paper web A calender (1) for calendering a paper web (2), in particular made from paper suitable for gravure printing, having at least one roll stack which in each case has an upper and a lower end roll (4.1, 4.2) and intermediate rolls (5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4), one of the two end rolls (4.1) delimits a first working nip (3) of the roll stack depending on the guidance of the paper web (2), and the rolls (4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4) are hard rolls (4.1, 5.2, 5.4) and soft rolls (5.1, 5.3, 4.2) in order to form loadable working nips in the form of soft nips, the end roll (4.1) which delimits the first working nip (3) being a hard, heated roll, the diameter of which is greater than that of a hard, heated intermediate roll (5.2, 5.4) and the outer wall (9) of which forms one of two contact faces (9, 10) of a web treatment nip (8) which is arranged upstream of the first working nip (3), and the other contact face (10) being formed by a belt (14) which circulates on guide rolls (11, 12, 13).
US08440046B2	Method for fastening a plate or glass panel in a frame element and sealing element for use in such a method The invention relates to a novel method for fastening at least one plate, such as a glass panel, in a profile, which has an assembly groove for peripherally receiving an edge of the glass panel. The method is characterized in that on at least one of the glass panels and an inside of the assembly groove oriented parallel thereto an assembly rubber seal is disposed, on the surface of which facing the glass panel a double-sided adhesive tape having a cover film that covers the side of the double-sided adhesive tape facing the glass panel is attached, wherein the glass panel is inserted into the assembly groove and is pressed against the double-sided adhesive tape in the assembly groove by at least one counter element disposed on the opposite side of the glass panel, or by the opposite inside of the assembly groove, and wherein the cover film is removed when the glass panel is inserted into the assembly groove.
US08440041B2	Lens pad, lens pad manufacturing method, lens manufacturing method, and adhesive member A lens pad includes a blank, first adhesive layer, and release sheet. The first adhesive layer is formed on one surface of the blank. The release sheet comes into tight contact with the surface of the first adhesive layer to protect this surface. The arithmetic average roughness of the surface of the release sheet on the side of the first adhesive layer is 0.1 μm or less. The surface of the first adhesive layer from which the release sheet is peeled off is attached onto a lens as an edging target. A lens pad, a lens pad manufacturing method, a lens manufacturing method, and an adhesive member are also disclosed.
US08440038B2	Method for making a laminate A method for making a laminate includes: extruding a core layer, and advancing the same along a processing line; advancing upper and lower metal layers, and bending the upper metal layer to form a raised bent structure; laminating the upper and lower metal layers with the core layer by passing through a nip of a pair of laminating rollers, one of which has an embossing groove that is shaped to complement the raised bent structure and that permits the raised bent structure to pass therethrough; and embossing the core layer to protrude into the raised bent structure while the core layer and the upper and lower metal layers are passed through the nip. The upper metal layer is inclined with a tangent line that passes through the nip by an angle of less than 15 degrees when at a position immediately upstream of the nip.
US08440034B2	System, method, and apparatus for pre-tensioned pipe for load-sharing with composite cover A pipe is wrapped with a composite to form a pre-stressed interface to facilitate load sharing between the materials. Prior to being wrapped, the pipe is placed in tension via hydraulic devices or the like. Alternatively, a combination of cured and uncured composite wraps is used in proximity to each other to apply compressive stress to the pipe. In addition, the pipe may be subjected to cold temperatures to change its dimensions prior to being wrapped with a composite material.
US08440032B2	Press and method for forming beams having at least one substantially U-shaped cross-sectional portion from glue-coated wood chips A press having oppositely arranged lower and upper master tools, at least one having an elongate pressing tool which is vertically displaceable in a groove in the master tool, and two lateral pressing tools arranged between the main surfaces of the master tools, on each side of the groove. The press also having at least two mold inserts, arranged on the pressing surface of at least one of the master tools, having the form of an elongate rod extending along substantially the whole of the longitudinal extent of the press and having a substantially U-shaped, outward-facing cross-sectional form, and which are displaceably movable, at least to a limited extent, along the horizontal pressing surface of the master tool transversely to a longitudinal extent of the press, and at least one partition wall arranged between the mold inserts on the pressing surface of at least one of the master tools.
US08440029B2	Stainless steel having good conductivity and ductility for use in fuel cell and method for producing the same A stainless steel having good conductivity and ductility for use in a fuel cell separator is provided. In particular, the stainless steel has a composition of, in terms of % by mass, C: 0.01% or less, Si: 1.0% or less, Mn: 1.0% or less, S: 0.01% or less, P: 0.05% or less, Al: 0.20% or less, N: 0.02% or less, Cr: 20 to 40%, Mo: 4.0% or less, and at least one selected from Nb, Ti, and Zr: 0.05 to 0.60% in total, the balance being Fe and unavoidable impurities. At least one precipitate having an equivalent circle diameter of 0.1 μm or more is present per 100 μm2, a ratio of a thickness t (μm) to a maximum diameter Dmax (μm) of the precipitates satisfies formula (1) below 20≦t/Dmax (1) and the thickness is 200 μm or less.
US08440026B2	Dishwashing machine equipped with an ozone storage device A dishwashing machine is provided with a washing compartment, an ozone generator, and devices for washing items to be washed using a washing solution, as well as with a storage device that is connected to the washing compartment in an air-conducting manner. The storage device serves, on the one hand, to store ozone and/or hydroxyl radicals as they form or are produced and, on the other hand, to release ozone and/or hydroxyl radicals during a partial program step drying and/or a non-operating phase of the dishwashing machine whereby effecting a deodorizing.
US08440020B2	Apparatus and method for the production of flexible semiconductor devices Apparatus for continuously producing flexible semiconductor devices through deposition of a plurality of semiconductor layers onto a moving flexible substrate by using Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) processing, where at least two successive layers are deposited in the same deposition chamber onto the substrate traveling in opposite directions. Computer program product directly loadable into the internal memory of a digital computer comprising software code portions for determining and controlling all the necessary parameters for the production of flexible semi-conductor devices in a such apparatus when said computer program product is run on a computer. Roll-to-roll method for producing flexible semiconductor devices, wherein a plurality of semiconductor layers are deposited in the same deposition chamber onto a flexible substrate moving in opposite directions. Flexible semiconductor device produced with said method, where the penetration rate of one semiconductor layer into its neighboring layer is remarkably low.
US08440015B1	Fly ash carbon passivation A thermal method to passivate the carbon and/or other components in fly ash significantly decreases adsorption. The passivated carbon remains in the fly ash. Heating the fly ash to about 500 and 800 degrees C. under inert gas conditions sharply decreases the amount of surfactant adsorbed by the fly ash recovered after thermal treatment despite the fact that the carbon content remains in the fly ash. Using oxygen and inert gas mixtures, the present invention shows that a thermal treatment to about 500 degrees C. also sharply decreases the surfactant adsorption of the recovered fly ash even though most of the carbon remains intact. Also, thermal treatment to about 800 degrees C. under these same oxidative conditions shows a sharp decrease in surfactant adsorption of the recovered fly ash due to the fact that the carbon has been removed. This experiment simulates the various “carbon burnout” methods and is not a claim in this method. The present invention provides a thermal method of deactivating high carbon fly ash toward adsorption of AEAs while retaining the fly ash carbon. The fly ash can be used, for example, as a partial Portland cement replacement in air-entrained concrete, in conductive and other concretes, and for other applications.
US08440006B2	System and method for flue gas scrubbing An apparatus 100 for scrubbing flue gas 122, the apparatus 100 including a tower 140 having an inlet 120 receiving a flow of flue gas 122 and a recycle tank portion 142; a fluid 162 disposed in the recycle tank portion 142; and an aerator 150 having at least one opening 152 for introduction of an oxygen-containing gas 154 into the fluid 162, wherein the at least one opening 152 is positioned to release the oxygen-containing gas 154 at least at a distance greater than or equal to a predetermined radial distance F from the inlet 120, the predetermined radial distance F being equal to at least 10% of a diameter of the recycle tank portion 142.
US08440003B2	Apparatus for pervaporation control in liquid degassing systems A liquid degassing apparatus is arranged to limit pervaporation through a membrane by attenuating pressure oscillations developed by a vacuum pump. The attenuation is obtained through a combination of one or more flow restrictors and added volume chambers fluidly interposed between the degassing chamber and the vacuum pump. The pressure oscillation attenuation may further inhibit cross-contamination of pervaporated solvents among a plurality of distinct degassing chambers.
US08440002B2	Long life pyramidal filter for gas turbine inlet system A filtration apparatus includes at least three filter elements for filtering fluid, and a frame having a pyramidal frustum configuration that has at least three sides. The frame includes a frame structure for supporting the filter elements at the sides such that the filtration apparatus has a pyramidal frustum configuration. The filtration apparatus may be part of a filtration assembly. The filtration apparatus may be utilized within an associated method.
US08439999B2	Device for capturing gas from a produced water stream A device for capturing gas included within a produced-water stream is described. Gas and water pressure coordination is not required. Controls prevent liquid entry to the gas system and prevent gas entry into the water system. A gas/liquid separator receives an inner vessel lower end. A separator inlet receives a combined fluid stream. A liquid line passes into the inner vessel and down into the separator below the inlet so that liquid separated from the combined stream will flow up the liquid line. Motor valves are in the liquid line and in a gas line. The gas line extends from the inner vessel upper end. The gas line conveys gas from the inner vessel upper end to a gas collection system. A top float in the inner vessel activates the gas line motor valve. A bottom float in the inner vessel activates the liquid line motor valve.
US08439998B2	Manufacturing method of metal product and metal product In sintering a metal powder after pressure molding into a given configuration, random amorphous flaky metal fine powders (10) are used as metal powder materials. In addition, spherical particulate metal powders 11 are used as main materials, and random amorphous flaky metal fine powders 10 having finer particle size than the metal powders 11 and produced by fracturing a metal fracture material by means of high-velocity gas swirling flow are used as sub-materials, and molding and sintering are performed in a state of dispersing the sub-materials (10) in the main materials (11). Thus, despite being a power metallurgical product, it is possible to obtain a metal product having a dense metallographic structure and excellent in properties such as mechanical strength.
US08439995B2	Abrasive compounds for semiconductor planarization A polishing slurry for semiconductor planarization containing cerium oxide particles and water, wherein the content of the cerium oxide particles having a diameter of 3 μm or more is 500 ppm or less (weight ratio) in a solid, preferably 100 ppm or less and it is more preferable that D99 (99% by volume of the whole particles in polishing slurry) of the cerium oxide particles is 1 μm or less. The polishing slurry can reduce the generation of scratches, and can polish a surface of the semiconductor substrate in the wiring formation process of semiconductor device precisely at a high speed.
US08439993B2	Method and apparatus to transport solids A method of operating a gasification facility includes channeling a conveying fluid at a first temperature through at least one first steam heating device to increase the temperature of the conveying fluid to a second predetermined temperature. The method also includes channeling the conveying fluid at the second predetermined temperature through a second steam heating device to increase the temperature of the conveying fluid to a third predetermined temperature. The method further includes channeling the conveying fluid at the third predetermined temperature to a solids conveyance system. Solids become entrained within the conveying fluid. The method also includes transporting at least a portion of the solids to a gasification system.
US08439988B2	Coffee grounds-based fuel and method of manufacture One possible embodiment could be a composition for coffee ground-based fuel comprising: dried, spent coffee grounds by 54% by weight; vegetable shortening by 23% by weight; brown sugar by 20% by weight; and corn syrup by 2% by weight, wherein the vegetable shortening and brown sugar and mixed together and heated slowly until a boil is achieved, then removing resultant mixture from heat, mixing in dried, spent coffee grounds into resultant mixture, then mixing in corn syrup into the resultant mixture, pouring and pressing the resultant mixture into a selected form for final shaping, then when the mixture has cooled to room temperature, removing it from the form for use.
US08439987B2	Method of producing carbonaceous material-containing briquettes using steel mill dust containing oil The present invention is directed to providing a production method capable of producing carbon composite briquettes having sufficient strength without excessively reducing a production capacity, even using steel mill dust containing oil. This method comprises: adding at least a carbonaceous material and a binder to steel mill dust containing oil and mixing them to form a powdery mixture; compacting the powdery mixture by means of a pressure roll to produce briquettes; and recognizing an increase/decrease in an oil content of the powdery mixture to adjust a rotation speed of the pressure roll so as to lower the rotation speed along with an increase in the oil content.
US08439986B2	Fuel additive A fuel additive for gasoline that increases automobile fuel efficiency and decreases carbon emissions. The fuel additive comprises a composition of olive oil and fuel oil in a ratio, by volume, of about 1 part olive oil to about 8 parts fuel oil. In the preferred embodiment the fuel oil is fuel oil no. 2-D.
US08439985B2	Method for the production of a fuel from vegetable oil The invention relates to a method for producing a fuel from vegetable oil in order to operate of diesel internal combustion engines. In said method, the oleaginous fruit is pressed, and the dripping oil is filtered. According to the invention, the dripping vegetable oil containing the cloudy matter is mixed with a clay material in a first step before being filtered and is filtered in a second step.
US08439984B2	Method of treating a fuel to reverse phase separation A method of treating a liquid made up of an initial alcohol-blended fuel combined with water so that there is phase separation of an alcohol-water layer. A co-solvent is added to the first quantity of liquid and mixed with the first quantity of liquid to reverse the phase separation of the alcohol-water layer.
US08439982B2	Dyeing of fibers using supercritical carbon dioxide and electrophoresis The present technology provides an illustrative method for dyeing textiles that includes intermixing a dye with super-critical carbon dioxide (sc-CO2) to form a dye solution and immersing a fabric in the dye solution. The method further includes applying an electric field to the dye solution to cause charged particles of the dye solution to separate and cause the dye to diffuse into the fabric.
US08439981B2	Soluble solid hair coloring article A soluble solid hair coloring article having anionic direct dye and one or more soluble porous solids containing nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, or a mixture thereof, such that the soluble porous solid has a density of from about 0.03 g/cm3 to about 0.15 g/cm3; and methods of applying the soluble solid hair coloring article to hair.
US08439980B2	Shading composition The present invention provides a laundry treatment composition comprising a cationic azine dye.
US08439978B2	Prosthetic device and method for implanting the prosthetic device A substantially cup-shaped prosthetic device for a joint is provided. The prosthetic device includes an outer surface configured to operatively engage at least one of a first bone of the joint and a component, an inner surface including at least a portion configured to connect to a second bone of the joint, and at least one reservoir having an opening at each of the inner surface and the outer surface and extending therebetween.
US08439976B2	Integrated adjustable button-suture-graft construct with two fixation devices An adjustable button/loop device for securing biologic material in bone, such as for ACL reconstruction. The device has a pair of button/loop constructs, each including a flexible, adjustable loop integrated with a fixation device (for example, a wedge). Biologic material (for example, soft tissue, graft, ligament or tendon) is secured to the two fixation devices, and the construct is inserted into a pair of bone sockets/tunnels, such as into a tunnel in the tibia and a socket in the femur. The biologic material is secured within the bone by passing the buttons though respective bone sockets/tunnels, flipping and seating the buttons outside the bone, and then adjusting the lengths of the flexible adjustable loops passing through the buttons and the respective fixation devices, with the graft extending between the fixation devices thereby appropriately secured in the bone.
US08439975B2	Polyethylene cross-linked with an anthocyanin A method for manufacturing of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for implants, where the implants have been machined out of UHMWPE blocks or extruded rods, has anthocyanin dispersely imbedded in the polyethylene. The implant is then exposed to γ ray or electron beam irradiation in an amount of at least 2.5 Mrad followed by a heat treatment to prevent the implant from becoming brittle in the long term as well as to improve strength and wear. The method includes mixing a powder or granulate resin of UHMWPE with an aqueous liquid that contains anthocyanin in a predetermined amount. The water is then evaporated to deposit the anthocyanin in a predetermined concentration on the polyethylene particles. The doped UHMWPE particles are compressed into blocks at temperatures in a range of approximately 135° C.-250° C. and pressures in a range of approximately 2-70 MPa. Medical implants are made from the blocks.
US08439973B2	Plungers for intraocular lens injectors An intraocular lens (IOL) injector for delivering an IOL into an eye of a patient. The injector includes an IOL load chamber and connected delivery tube, and a push rod for urging the IOL through the delivery tube and out of a distal tip thereof. The push rod is guided and biased against one side of the injector load chamber. The injector may include an inflatable pusher for urging the IOL through the delivery tube and out of a distal tip thereof. The inflatable pusher has a proximal end that may be open to an internal cavity of the injector, wherein a plunger movable in the injector cavity forces fluid such as air or saline into the pusher. A distal end of the pusher may be forked to capture a trailing end of the IOL, or may have a bulbous configuration to ensure the pusher does not pass the IOL.
US08439971B2	Adjustable height focal tissue deflector A tissue shaping device adapted to reshape target tissue adjacent to a lumen. In some embodiments, the device includes an expandable and contractable anchor, with the anchor having an adjustable height anchoring portion adapted to engage a wall of the lumen in at least first and second anchor heights, the anchoring portion being further adapted to be changed from the first anchor height to the second anchor height by a substantially proximally or a substantially distally directed actuation force. The invention is also a tissue shaping system including a tissue shaping device and a tool for adjusting the height of an anchor of the device. The invention also includes methods of using such tissue shaping devices and systems.
US08439966B1	Intravascular stent and method of use An expandable stent is implanted in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen for treating an area of vulnerable plaque. The invention provides for a an intravascular stent having a plurality of cylindrical rings connected by undulating links. The stent has a high degree of flexibility in the longitudinal direction, yet has adequate vessel wall coverage and radial strength sufficient to hold open an artery or other body lumen. A central section is positioned between distal and proximal sections and is aligned with the area of vulnerable plaque to enhance growth of endothelial cells over the fibrous cap of the vulnerable plaque to reinforce the area and reduce the likelihood of rupture.
US08439964B2	Stent with web-inducing nodes for increased surface area A medical device for delivering a therapeutic agent is described comprising a stent comprising a sidewall and a plurality of struts, wherein at least one strut or strut portion comprises at least one node, wherein the expansion of the stent creates at least one web comprising a coating composition having a therapeutic agent, and wherein at least one node is configured to be associated with at least one web. A method for delivering a therapeutic agent to a body site is also described.
US08439963B2	Apparatus and method for maintaining fluid flow through body passages A device (10) for maintaining fluid flow through at least one passage in a human or animal body, the device comprising two end portions (12, 14) for anchoring the device in position, and an intermediate portion (16) which allows movement of the end portions relative to each another, wherein the end portions and intermediate portion together define a pathway for fluid flow through the device. The device is particularly suitable for use in the treatment of coronary heart disease by minimally invasive surgery, and the invention extends to a method for diverting fluid flow from one passage to another.
US08439962B2	Endoprothesis stent delivery system and method of using the same An endoprosthesis deployment system includes an axial catheter, an outer sheath extending parallel to the axial catheter, and an inner sheath positioned transversely between the axial catheter and outer sheath, the inner sheath including first and second inner sheath sections extending along the axial catheter, each of said first and said second inner sheath sections mounted for axial movement relative to the other inner sheath section.
US08439961B2	Stent retaining mechanisms A catheter system comprises a catheter comprising a distal portion, a proximal portion and an inner shaft. The inner shaft comprises a medical device receiving region for receiving and carrying a medical device. The retaining device is at least partially constructed of an electroactive polymer. The retaining device is located on or adjacent to the medical device receiving region. The electroactive polymer of the retaining device has an activated state and an inactivated state. The retaining device is capable of retaining a medical device to the catheter and releasing the medical device from the catheter by transitioning between the activated state and the inactivated state.
US08439959B2	Full-body laser scanner and method of mapping and contouring the body A full-body non-invasive laser scanner for mapping or measuring a patient's body and for treating a patient's body with laser energy comprises a patient support, one or more laser devices, a laser guidance system, a control center, and optionally feedback sensors. The patient support aids in maintaining body alignment during treatment, and the laser devices are moveably positioned on a laser guidance system such that they can be driven about a stationary patient. To map and contour a patient's body, the patient aligns himself on the patient support. With the control center, an operator chooses whether to map, contour, or map and contour the patient's body either manually or according to preprogrammed treatment protocols. The carriage assembly translates and the laser devices apply laser energy to the surfaces of the patient's body according to the chosen protocol. Feedback sensors provide data for mapping the contours of the patient's body.
US08439958B2	Polyaxial bone screw A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head, a retaining ring and a nut. The external capture structure surface includes a threaded portion and a smooth portion; the smooth portion for slidably mating with the retaining ring and the threaded portion for rotatable attachment to the nut within a cavity of the head. The nut fixes the retaining ring to the shank and also provides a tool engagement formation for driving the shank body into bone.
US08439957B2	Bone plate assembly provided with screw locking mechanisms One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a bone plate assembly that includes a bone plate, bone screw(s) received in aperture(s) in the bone plate, and screw fixation member(s). The screw fixation member(s) may, alone or in conjunction with the bone plate, fix the bone screw(s) in place when such bone screw(s) are inserted in the aperture(s) in the bone plate. In one example (which example is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive) when the bone screw(s) have been received by the bone plate and inserted into bone and/or tissue, the bone plate assembly can-be used to fuse anatomical structures together (such as adjoining bones) and/or to heal a fracture in bone.
US08439953B2	Spinal stabilization system and method A spinal stabilization system may include a pair of structural members coupled to at least a portion of a human vertebra with connectors. Connectors may couple structural members to spinous processes. Some embodiments of a spinal stabilization system may include fasteners that couple structural members to vertebrae. In some embodiments, a spinal stabilization system provides three points of fixation for a single vertebral level. A fastener may fixate a facet joint between adjacent vertebrae and couple a stabilization structural member to a vertebra. Connectors may couple the structural members to the spinous processes of the vertebrae. Use of a spinal stabilization system may improve the stability of a weakened or damaged portion of a spine. When used in conjunction with an implant or other device, the spinal stabilization system may immobilize vertebrae and allow for fusion of the implant or other device with vertebrae.
US08439945B2	Methods for biopsying tissue A biopsy incision closure device includes a base having a frame incorporated therein. Together, the base and frame define an opening for performing a biopsy incision when the device is placed over a tissue surface. The base is typically composed of an elastomeric material, and the frame comprises resilient inelastic members which can be used to close the opening in a highly uniform manner with minimum distortion and stress introduced into the tissue edges being drawn together.
US08439937B2	System, apparatus and method for opening an occluded lesion A system, apparatus and method for maximizing efficiency of tissue removal from body passageways is provided. The system comprises a device for opening an occluded lesion, e.g., a rotational atherectomy device or angioplasty device, and a guide wire having an introducer sheath. The guide wire introducer sheath may comprise a hypo tube having columnar strength greater than that of the guide wire alone to assist the guide wire in crossing occluded lesions, wherein the sheath and guide wire are axially moveable relative to each other. The guide wire sheath may further comprise increased flexibility at its distal end to increase flexibility and/or a soft distal tip to help with steerability through the vasculature. The sheath may allow for a smaller outer diameter guide wire which, in turn, may allow for a smaller outer diameter on the occlusion-opening device, e.g., atherectomy or angioplasty device, which is slid over the pre-positioned guide wire.
US08439936B2	Device and method for tendon, ligament or soft tissue repair Disclosed are medical devices and methods for tendon, ligament, and soft tissue repair. A method includes introducing a first segment having a delivery assembly into a first soft tissue, and removing the delivery assembly to expose an opening of a hollow body of the first segment. The method also includes introducing a second segment having a second delivery assembly and a second body into a second soft tissue, guiding the second delivery assembly through the opening, and advancing the second body into the hollow body, thereby joining the first soft tissue and the second soft tissue.
US08439935B2	Process and a device for surgical treatment of rectal and haemorrhoidal prolapse A process for surgical operations on a rectal/haemorrhoidal prolapse comprises stages of realising, in the anal canal, at least a first circular stitching at a first portion of a haemorrhoidal prolapse; realising at least a second circular stitching in a second portion of the haemorrhoidal prolapse, and nearing the first circular stitching and the second circular stitching in order to create a constriction of the haemorrhoidal prolapse. The invention also relates to a device, preferably for actuating the process, which comprises a hollow divaricator (17) having a prevalent development direction along a longitudinal axis (Z) and being insertable in a patient's anal orifice. The device further exhibits a window (29) defining an operational area and creating a communication between a cavity (17b) internal of the divaricator (17) and a portion of haemorrhoidal prolapse. The device further comprises means for opening and closing (31) the window (29).
US08439930B2	Dispensing instrument A delivery device for semi-solid implantable material such as synthetic bone graft substitutes. The device comprises a handle (1), a cylinder (2) extending from the handle and having an outlet at its distal end. A piston (23) is operated by a trigger (5) and is slidable within the cylinder to displace the material from the cylinder. The cylinder has a substantially constant inner diameter along its entire length such that the outlet has substantially the same inner diameter as the rest of the cylinder. When the trigger is fully depressed, a ratchet mechanism (14, 32) is disengaged allowing the piston to be pulled back to a starting position.
US08439922B1	Systems and methods for holding and implanting bone anchors Systems and methods for a guide assembly for introducing a bone anchor to an operative target site. The guide includes an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve. The outer sleeve has a distal anchor engaging end, a proximal end, and a central passage extending from the distal end to the proximal end. The inner sleeve may be situated in the central passage of the outer sleeve. The inner sleeve is movable being between a first position and a second position. The first position permits insertion of the bone anchor in the central passage. The second position releasably fixes the bone anchor to the guide assembly.
US08439917B2	Fracture fixation device, tools and methods A bone fixation device is provided with an elongate body having a longitudinal axis and having a flexible state and a rigid state, a plurality of grippers disposed at longitudinally spaced locations of the elongated body, a curved rigid hub connected to the elongated body, and an actuator operably connected to the grippers to deploy the grippers from a first shape to an expanded second shape. Methods of repairing a fracture of a bone are also disclosed. One such method comprising inserting a bone fixation device into an intramedullary space of the bone to place at least a portion of an elongate body of the fixation device in a flexible state on one side of the fracture and at least a portion of a curved rigid hub on another side of the fracture, and operating an actuator to deploy a plurality of grippers of the fixation device to engage an inner surface of the intramedullary space to anchor the fixation device to the bone.
US08439909B2	Cooled ablation catheter with reciprocating flow The invention relates to an ablation catheter which controls the temperature and reduces the coagulation of biological fluids on an electrode of a catheter, prevents the impedance rise of tissue in contact with the electrode, and maximizes the potential energy transfer to the tissue, thereby allowing an increase in the lesion size produced by the ablation. The electrode includes passages positioned to allow blood and other biological fluids to flow into and out of an inner cavity of the electrode. This fluid flow produced the desired cooling effect and is accomplished, for example, by a reciprocating plunger or piston, or by a balloon that is alternately inflated and deflated.
US08439908B2	Ablation in the gastrointestinal tract to achieve hemostasis and eradicate lesions with a propensity for bleeding Devices and methods are provided for the ablation of regions of the digestive tract to achieve hemostasis and to eradicate chronically bleeding lesions as occur with gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE), portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG), radiation proctopathy and colopathy, arteriovenous malformations, and angiodysplasia. Ablation is typically provided in a wide-field manner, and in conjunction with sufficient pressure to achieve coaptive coagulation. Ablation, as provided the invention, starts at the mucosa and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner. Ablation control may be exerted by way of electrode design and size, energy density, power density, number of applications, pattern of applications, and pressure. Control may also be provided by a fractional ablation that ablates some tissue within a target region and leaves a portion substantially unaffected. Embodiments of the device include an ablational electrode array that spans 360 degrees and an array that spans an arc of less than 360 degrees.
US08439907B2	Hemostatic tissue tunnel generator for inserting treatment apparatus into tissue of a patient A catheter for insertion into and treatment of tissue in a patient comprises a radio frequency (RF) electrode having an elongated body that conducts electrical RF energy to a conductive tip. An insulating sleeve surrounds the elongated body. In a first mode of operation, the conductive tip is exposed outside the insulating sleeve and the RF electrode delivers RF energy that erodes the tissue of the patient and creates a tunnel through which the catheter can advance into the tissue of the patient. In a second mode of operation, the insulating sleeve and/or the RF electrode is retracted and a second treatment apparatus treats the tissue.
US08439904B2	Tapered fused waveguide for teeth whitening A radiation emitting apparatus is disclosed that emits a substantially homogenous beam of radiation from an irregularly shaped output end. As described herein, a radiation emitting apparatus includes a bundled fiber guide coupled to an energy distribution tuner. The bundled fiber guide is coupled to the energy distribution tuner to receive a substantially uniform distribution of high power energy. The bundled fiber guide is configured to distribute the energy to emit a substantially uniform distribution of lower power energy toward a target surface, such as a body surface. The bundled fiber guide may include a plurality of fused optic fibers, a plurality of beam splitting mirror elements, or tapered waveguides.
US08439901B2	Fractional scanner for dermatological treatments A dermatological treatment device is disclosed for generating a matrix of two dimensional treatment spots on the tissue. A handpiece carries a laser which generates a beam of laser pulses. The pulses are focused onto the tissue with a lens system. A diffractive element is positioned between the laser and the lens system for splitting the laser beam into a plurality of sub-beams. A scanner translates the beam over the diffractive element to generate the two dimensional spot pattern. The laser has a semi-monolithic resonator design with one integral end minor defining the output coupler and a second, independent mirror for adjustment.
US08439897B2	Assessing residual insulin time Methods, systems and devices for assessing residual insulin time of a patient are provided. In one embodiment, the method and the device can be implemented by receiving a confirmation that an insulin dose has been administered to the patient; repetitively receiving a value corresponding to the patient's blood glucose level; identifying at least two consecutively received values based on a predetermined criteria; and, selecting the residual insulin time corresponding to a time period between the confirmation that the insulin dose has been administered and a time corresponding to the identification of the at least two consecutively received values.
US08439896B2	Device, system, and method for targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory medicaments to a mammalian subject A device, a system, or a method is described for treating a disease or a condition of one or more joints of articulating bone in a mammalian subject. The device provides one or more medicaments to one or more joints of the mammalian subject. A device is described that includes an enclosure including one or more sensors, a controller, and one or more applicators configured to surround one or more joints of articulating bone of a mammalian subject, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to detect one or more physiological conditions of the one or more joints of the mammalian subject, and the controller, configured to communicate with the one or more sensors, is configured to activate the one or more applicators, and wherein the one or more applicators are configured to inject one or more medicaments to one or more joint tissues of the mammalian subject.
US08439895B2	Illuminating balloon catheter and method for using the catheter A directionally limited illuminating balloon catheter includes a multi-lumen shaft having a distal end and a hollow balloon portion disposed at the distal end and inflated through the shaft, the balloon portion having a light source illuminating only a portion of the environment outside the balloon portion. The balloon portion can have a directionally limited light source directing substantially all illumination towards the shaft. Also provided is a directionally illuminating balloon catheter kit including a set of illuminating catheters each having the light source with different sized illuminating areas to illuminate a different sized partial portion of the environment outside the balloon portion.
US08439888B2	Three-piece disposable absorbent article having an absorbent with cross-direction flexibility A three-piece disposable absorbent article is disclosed having a longitudinal central axis and a transverse central axis. The disposable absorbent article includes front and back panels, each panel capable of being stretched and retracted in multiple directions. The back panel is also distinct and spaced apart from the front panel. The disposable absorbent article further includes an absorbent assembly situated between the front and back panels and which is attached to each by a first attachment member. The first attachment member is aligned along the longitudinal central axis. The disposable absorbent assembly includes a non-elastic absorbent that is capable of being elongated and contracted in only one direction, that direction being aligned approximately parallel to the transverse central axis.
US08439883B1	Repositionable pouch with floating landing zone The ostomy system includes a pouch that is adhesively coupled to a mounting wafer. The mounting wafer has a landing zone film formed of releasable plastic and the pouch has a face plate with a resealable adhesive that secures to the landing zone of the mounting wafer. The landing zone of the mounting wafer includes one portion that is immovable with respect to the body surface that the mounting wafer is secured to and another portion that is deflectable away from the body surface. The deflectable portion of the landing zone, also referred to as the floating landing zone, is sized for gripping between the fingers during pouch separation from the mounting wafer. Gripping of the floating landing zone during pouch separation helps isolate the pouch separation force from the abdominal area underlying the mounting wafer. The mounting wafer also includes indicia border lines that facilitate alignment of the pouch face plate with the mounting wafer.
US08439880B2	Drip chamber with flow control A flow control system includes a drip chamber having lower and upper wall sections and a collapsible wall extending between the lower and upper wall sections, a downwardly depending valve seat attached to the lower wall section, and a valve member disposed in the drip chamber, attached to the upper wall section and having a valve surface engageable with the valve seat. The system also includes a driver rotatably engaged to the lower and upper wall sections. Upon rotation of the driver in a first direction, the collapsible wall of the drip chamber moves between a collapsed condition in which the valve seat is sealingly engaged with the valve surface and an extended condition in which the valve seat is sufficiently spaced from the valve surface to form a flow passageway between the valve surface and the valve seat and permit flow through the opening of the drip chamber.
US08439879B2	Infusion set of self-occlusion mechanism A device, system and method for occluding fluid flow through an infusion set detached from a patient's body. The device includes a means for detecting loss of contact to a patient's body and activating an occlusion mechanism accordingly.
US08439878B2	Rheolytic thrombectomy catheter with self-inflating proximal balloon with drug infusion capabilities A thrombectomy catheter with a self-inflating proximal balloon having drug infusion capabilities is described. A self-inflating balloon is formed from an inflatable thin walled section of a flexible catheter tube. The self-inflating balloon includes a plurality of outflow orifices located about the peripheral circumference thereof and located proximal to an inflow gap interposed between a fluid jet emanator and the self-inflating balloon. The self-inflating balloon is inflated and expanded by internal operating pressures by proximal composite flow of fluid from the fluid jet emanator and entrained fluid from the inflow gap to uniformly space and position the outflow orifices of the self-inflating balloon in close proximity to the thrombus or vessel walls of a blood vessel. The thrombectomy catheter may be used for, among other things, thrombectomies, embolectomies, thrombus or vessel dilation, and for the delivery of drugs to a thrombus or vessel site.
US08439874B2	Apparatus and method for controlling a vacuum source to establish fluid flow A flow control system that includes a vacuum device configured to control the level of vacuum applied for urging the flow of aspirated fluid from a surgical site, and a vacuum sensor configured to communicate a signal representative of the sensed vacuum level. A flow sensor control is configured to generate a signal indicative of the rate of aspirated fluid flow. A flow controller monitors the vacuum sensor and the flow measurement device, and communicates a requested vacuum level to the vacuum device for establishing a desired vacuum level. The flow controller employs a first feed back loop that compares the actual sensed vacuum level with the requested vacuum level and adjusts the requested vacuum level as needed. The flow controller implements a second feedback loop that compares the actual flow rate of aspirated fluid with a desired flow rate, and adjusts the requested vacuum level to achieve the desired flow rate.
US08439868B2	Medical device for dispersing medicaments The present disclosure relates to balloon catheter medical devices. Some balloon catheter medical devices may include a balloon surface having paclitaxel embedded in a low-molecular weight matrix substance adhered thereto and dried. The dried paclitaxel may be immediately releasable after coming into contact with tissue. Other balloon catheter medical devices may include a balloon surface having a lipophilic proliferation inhibitor, an inflammation inhibitor, or an antioxidant adhered thereto.
US08439861B2	Skin penetrating touch fasteners A skin attachment member having first and second surface with a plurality of skin penetrating elements extending integrally from the first surface of the backing to a distal tip. The skin penetrating elements are sized to avoid contact with nerves below the epidermal skin layer and have a foam disposed between at least some of the skin penetrating elements. A method of using the skin attachment member to deliver a pharmaceutical composition through the skin.
US08439858B2	Arterial blood filter An arterial line blood filter for use in extracorporeal blood circuits during heart bypass surgery has, among other components, a housing with a cap portion, a base portion, and a generally cylindrical wall portion. The blood filter has a filter element disposed within the housing. An inlet is positioned at an upward angle with respect to the housing and includes an opening in the generally cylindrical wall portion in fluid communication with the inlet chamber. In some embodiments the position of the inlet limits the pressure drop and prime volume of the filter. According to one embodiment, the cap portion has an upwardly sloping inner surface and there is a vent in the cap portion. The inner surface of the cap portion can have a projection proximate the vent configured to limit immobilization of gaseous microemboli within the inlet chamber.
US08439853B2	Electric moxibustion device An electric moxibustion device includes a tubular case having a front end opening, a heater unit placed near the front end opening in the case, and a heatproof rubber cap removably attached to the front end of the case. The heater unit comprises a heat transfer metal plate and a heating element which is fixed on the back surface of the heat transfer metal plate and generates heat using power from an external power source or a battery. The cap and the case are configured for holding an absorbent-retentive member which absorbs and retains a medical fluid between the discharge opening of the cap and the heat transfer metal plate in the case. The case has a thermoregulation circuit built-in which can change the temperature of the heating element in a stepwise manner, and push buttons for temperature adjustment are provided on the outer periphery of the case.
US08439851B2	Lumen passability checking device, lumen passability checking method, and method of manufacturing lumen passability checking device A lumen passability checking device includes: an expandable and shrinkable outer casing that contains a predetermined fluid, is expanded by a pressure of the contained fluid, and forms an external diameter substantially equal to that of a capsule medical device to be inserted into a body of a subject; and a shape manipulating unit that flows out the fluid contained in the outer casing to shrink-deform the outer casing. The outer casing is shrink-deformed by flowing out the fluid, while maintaining a state of being integrated with the shape manipulating unit.
US08439850B2	Cervical sizing devices and related kits and methods This disclosure relates to cervical sizing devices and related kits and methods. In some aspects, a cervical sizing device includes an elongate arm and a member positioned at a distal end region of the elongate arm. The cervical sizing device can be used to determine an approximate size of a cervix when the member is brought into contact with an outer surface of the cervix.
US08439846B2	Bone biopsy device A bone biopsy device includes an outer cannula having a mouth with a cutting edge to section a frustule of spongy bone, a plate mounted slidably within the cannula and provided with a semi-cylindrical portion at its distal end, and a stylet mounted slidably within the plate and provided with a pointed tip which protrudes from the mouth of the cannula to pierce the compact part of the bone. The mouth of the cannula has on its inside a narrowing and the semi-cylindrical part of the plate has at its distal end at least one pair of opposed circumferential sets of teeth adapted to bend radially inwards when they encounter the narrowing of the mouth, to clasp the base of the sectioned frustule and allow extraction of the frustule by the plate while the cannula is kept at the operating site, allowing aspiration of marrow after the frustule has been removed.
US08439844B2	Step rate optimization device A step rate optimization device (12). The device includes a timer, a pedometer, an arterial waveform sensor (24), a processor and an indicator (16). The device indicates to the user (10) of a substantially sub-optimal relationship between the user's pulse rate and stride rate when the user's dominant stride rate frequency is at about 2-3 Hz and has a larger amplitude than the component of the user's dominant pulse waveform frequency at about 4-7 Hz and of a substantially optimal relationship between the user's pulse rate and stride rate when the user's dominant stride rate frequency component is at about 4-7 Hz and has a larger amplitude than the component of the user's dominant pulse waveform frequency at about 2-3 Hz.
US08439843B2	Automatic ankle brachial pressure index system An ABPI measurement system includes two cuffs for each ankle and two cuffs for each arm of a patient. Each cuff has chambers. The four cuffs are applied to each limb (or finger or toe), each chamber is inflated simultaneously to a pressure until a Pneumo Arterial Plethysmography (PAPG) signal related to the arterial flow in the limb is detected at the chambers. The chambers are then simultaneously inflated until the PAPG signals are extinguished in each limb, the inflation of chambers continuing for 10 mmHg to 20 mmHg above that pressure. The chambers are then deflated and the pressure at which the PAPG signal returns in the first chamber is recorded for each limb and this value of the pressure is used to calculate the ABPI. The ABPI is displayed or sent to a remote site.
US08439841B2	Method of measuring the thickness of a biological tissue by ultrasounds and device for carrying out such method A method of measuring the thickness of a biological tissue by ultrasounds and a device carrying out such method. The method is implemented with an ultrasound probe that emits ultrasonic pulses within a body under examination and receives echoes generated from structures of the body under examination. The probe includes an array of two or more electro-acoustic transducers and, in combination, means for processing the reception signals and means for orienting one or more lines of sight, along which the emission of the pulses and/or the reception of the echoes is focused, according to different angles with respect to an axis perpendicular to the emitting surface of the probe. The thickness of the biological tissue is calculated by the time interval between the reception of the first echo and the reception of the second echo, which are relevant to the same ultrasonic pulse emitted along at least a line of sight oriented along an axis perpendicular to the surface of the biological tissue, which is defined by the iteration of measurements with the line of sight oriented at different angles and with comparisons between the measured intensity values, the orientation corresponding to the axis perpendicular to the surface of the biological tissue being the one showing the maximum intensity of the first echo.
US08439839B2	Ultrasonic diagnosis device and ultrasonic probe for use in ultrasonic diagnosis device An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a structure for adjusting the positional relationship between an ultrasonic transducer and a blood vessel for measuring an elasticity characteristic. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe including a transducer for transmitting an ultrasonic wave and receiving the ultrasonic wave reflected by a tissue of a biological body; and a driving device for physically moving the transducer. For measuring the elasticity characteristic of the blood vessel, the driving device moves the transducer based on a control signal to change at least one of a direction and a position at which the ultrasonic wave is to be transmitted. A determination section specifies a position of the transducer at which the reflection intensity is maximum based on intensity information representing an intensity of the reflected wave. A calculation section calculates the elasticity characteristic of the blood vessel at the specified position.
US08439837B2	Systems and methods for detecting hypoglycemic events having a reduced incidence of false alarms The present invention is directed to a method of reducing false readings in a hypoglycemic detector that includes establishing a predetermined hypoglycemic threshold, a predetermined critical threshold, a predetermined rate of change in glucose concentration where the predetermined critical threshold is below the predetermined hypoglycemic threshold. A first sampling rate is then calculated based upon said predetermined hypoglycemic threshold, said predetermined critical threshold, and said predetermined rate of change in glucose concentration.
US08439836B2	Method and apparatus for monitoring the autonomous nervous system of a sedated patient The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for monitoring the autonomous nervous system of a sedated patient. According to the method, skin conductance is measured through a time interval. Average skin conductance values and the number of fluctuation peaks are in the interval are calculated and analyzed, and an indication is given of the state of pain/discomfort in the patient as well as the state of awakening in the patient. The invention is particularly applicable for use with anaesthetized or artificially ventilated patents, as separate output signals are automatically provided, indicating the need for analgesics and hypnotics, respectively.
US08439833B2	Ophthalmic structure A ring for dilating a pupil during an ophthalmic procedure includes a series of spaced supports for engaging an iris perimeter. The supports are plate elements which form an open pocket directed outwardly for engaging the iris. The sides of the ring form a primary plane, and the plates are located in respective planes above and below the primary plane. The outer periphery of the top and bottom plates forms a lip feature which is the opening to the pocket which retains the iris.
US08439829B2	Endoscope, distal end cap-equipped endoscope and endoscope cleaning sheath An endoscope includes, an insertion section, a distal end section body has an observation window, a liquid feed path which is formed to supply a liquid to the distal end section body side, a gas feed path which is formed to supply a gas to the distal end section body side, and a nozzle having a confluent portion which makes confluent the liquid supplied from the liquid feed path and the gas supplied from the gas feed path, and a jet outlet which jets a gas/liquid mixture fluid, which is mixed in the confluent portion, toward the observation window, wherein the nozzle is configured such that an angle, which is formed between a direction of a flow of the liquid toward the jet outlet and a direction of a flow of the gas toward the jet outlet, is set at an obtuse angle of 90° or more.
US08439826B2	Medical instrument having a display unit that displays a shape of an insertion body inserted into an interior of an object to be examined A medical instrument including a distortion detection probe disposed in an insertion portion to be inserted into the interior of an examinee provided with a plurality of FBG sensor sections that detect distortion of the insertion portion, a coordinate calculation section that calculates first three-dimensional coordinates of the respective FBG sensor sections according to a first three-dimensional coordinate system whose origin is a predetermined position based on the detection results of the FBG sensor sections, a coordinate system setting section that sets a second three-dimensional coordinate system based on the first three-dimensional coordinates of the respective FBG sensor sections, a coordinate transformation section that transforms the first three-dimensional coordinates of the respective FBG sensor sections into second three-dimensional coordinates according to the second three-dimensional coordinate system set by the coordinate system setting section and a shape display section that displays the shape of the insertion portion based on the second three-dimensional coordinates transformed by the coordinate transformation section.
US08439825B2	Balloon controller for endoscopic apparatus The present invention provides a balloon controller for an endoscope apparatus having a fluid supply and drawing device which communicates with at least one of a balloon attached to an insertion portion of an endoscope and a balloon attached to an insertion assist implement for guiding the insertion portion when the insertion portion is inserted, and which supplies a fluid to each balloon or draws the fluid from the balloon, the balloon controller comprising: a leakage device provided in tube paths for communication between the balloons and the fluid supply and drawing device, the leakage device being capable of leaking the fluid.
US08439824B2	Apparatus and methods for coronary sinus access Apparatus and methods for locating morphological features within a body cavity using a catheter including proximal and distal ends, a transparent balloon carried on the distal end, and an optical imaging assembly carried on the distal end for imaging through the balloon. The balloon includes a channel extending therethrough to a lumen extending through the catheter. A guidewire or other localization member is received in the lumen that is extendable through the channel. During use, the catheter is inserted into a right atrium of a heart, and the balloon is expanded and placed against the wall of the heart to locate the coronary sinus. Sufficient force is applied to clear blood between the surface and the wall and clear the field of view of the imaging assembly. The catheter is manipulated to locate the coronary sinus, whereupon the localization member is advanced into the coronary sinus.
US08439820B2	Systems and methods for sling delivery and placement The invention, in various embodiments, is directed to systems, devices, and methods relating to pre-pubic approaches to delivering a supportive sling to periurethral tissue of a patient.
US08439817B2	Chordae capturing methods for stress reduction The device and method for reducing heart wall stress. The device can be one which reduces wall stress throughout the cardiac cycle or only a portion of the cardiac cycle. The device can be configured to begin to engage, to reduce wall stress during diastolic filling, or begin to engage to reduce wall stress during systolic contraction. Furthermore, the device can be configured to include at least two elements, one of which engages full cycle and the other which engages only during a portion of the cardiac cycle.
US08439814B2	Machine and a method for folding nappy/diaper blanks Blanks used in the manufacture of nappies/diapers are folded on a machine comprising a first aspirating roller (5) by which single blanks (2) are advanced in succession toward a second aspirating roller (6) rotating counter and substantially tangential to the first roller (5) at a folding station (T). The first roller (5) is equipped with movable restraining elements (8) designed to engage an intermediate part of each advancing blank (2), so that a leading half of the blank remains free to be taken up by a transfer mechanism (11) operating between the first and second rollers (5, 6) in an area upstream of the folding station (T), and transferred from the first roller (5) to the second roller (6); as the two rollers (5, 6) rotate, the trailing half of the blank (2) retained on the first roller (5) by the restraining elements (8) is drawn closer to the leading half, whereupon the two halves converge gradually until flattened one against the other on passing through the folding station (T), which coincides with the point of tangency between the two rollers (5, 6), and the fold in the blank (2) is complete. The transfer mechanism (11) swings pendulum fashion, moving in sympathy with the first roller (5) when the leading half of the blank (2) is taken up and detached from this roller and in sympathy with the second roller (6) once the leading half of the blank has been released to this same second roller.
US08439812B2	Machine for securing a closure system onto a discrete pouch A machine is disclosed for securing a closure system onto a discrete pouch. The machine includes first, second and third stations. The first station is capable of advancing discrete pouches and lifting and folding a portion of a first major surface of each pouch upon itself to form a lip, and exposing an inner surface of a second major surface. The second station is capable of positioning and attaching a closure system transversely across the exposed inner surface. The closure system includes a track having first and second legs each having an outer surface. The first and second legs are joined together by an opening/closing mechanism which includes a movable member capable of being moved back and forth. The third station is located downstream from the second station and is capable of unfolding the lip and securing opposite ends of the lip to the outer surface of the second leg.
US08439810B2	Adjustable mounting device for exercise equipment The invention generally relates to exercise equipment that includes a pulley and cable mechanism. More specifically, the invention relates to an adjustable mounting device for the pulley so that the pulley may be mounted at different locations on the exercise equipment. This provides the user of such exercise equipment with the ability to adjust and readily fine-tune the position of the pulleys for proper biomechanical alignment with the user's body. Such a mounted pulley may be used on Pilates apparatus, weight and strength training equipment or other exercise equipment.
US08439809B2	Training dummy assembly for doing stand-up drills and ground drills A training dummy assembly includes a base, a column, a tensioning mechanism, a dummy. The base rests on the ground. The column is pivotally coupled to the base. The tensioning mechanism resiliently couples the base to the column. The dummy has a shape of a torso with head and is formed out of foam with an outer latex skin. The torso of the dummy is mechanically coupled to the column.
US08439804B2	Electro-hydraulic control including blocking features for multi-speed automatic transmission A control for a multi-speed automatic vehicle transmission is provided. Electrical and hydraulic components are provided, including pressure control or “trim” valve systems in fluid communication with shift valves and electrohydraulic actuators to selectively engage and disengage the transmission clutches or other shift mechanisms. Pressure switches are provided for the trim valves and shift valves. The fluid connections between the trim valve systems and the shift valve systems are configured to reduce the total number of valves and fluid passages required and to reduce the size of at least one of the valves. Clutch blocking features are provided. Power off limp home and reduced engine load at stop features are provided in all forward ranges, and control of double transition shifts is also provided.
US08439803B2	System and method for improved closed throttle downshifts A control system for a transmission coupled to an engine includes first, second, and third modules. The first module detects a closed throttle downshift of the transmission. The second module detects a request for a power-on downshift of the transmission. The third module controls a clutch of the transmission when the request for the power-on downshift is detected during the closed throttle downshift, wherein the third module one of (i) decreases a pressure applied to the clutch to a first predetermined pressure before an end of the closed throttle downshift and (ii) controls a pressure applied to the clutch to a second predetermined pressure at the end of the closed throttle downshift.
US08439802B2	Speed change control device of automatic transmission A speed change control device of an automatic transmission comprises a first control section that, upon detecting a speed change instruction for a speed change from a first given speed to a second given speed, carries out the speed change by reducing an engaging pressure of a releasing side frictional element that has established the first given speed and increasing an engaging pressure of an engaging side frictional element that would establish the second given speed; a second control section that carries out a correction processing to increase the engaging pressure of the releasing side frictional element when a throttle open degree is increased during the speed change carried out by the first control section; and a third control section that inhibits the correction processing of the second control section when the engaging pressure of the releasing side frictional element is lower than a given value.
US08439800B1	Marine drive shift control system A shift control system for a marine drive applies partial clutch engagement pressure upon initial shifting from forward to reverse to prevent stalling of the engine otherwise caused by applying full clutch engagement pressure upon shifting from forward to reverse.
US08439798B2	Hydraulic apparatus for automatic transmission In a hydraulic apparatus for an automatic transmission having a torque converter with a lockup clutch and CVT, there are provided a first control valve for controlling hydraulic pressure supply to the lockup clutch oil chamber, a first electromagnetic solenoid valve for controlling operation of the first control valve, a second control valve for controlling hydraulic pressure supply to the CVT pulleys, a second electromagnetic solenoid valve for controlling operation of the second control valve, a switching valve interposed between the oil chamber and the first control valve. In the apparatus, when detecting that the first control valve or first electromagnetic solenoid valve is failed and the lockup clutch is locked in engaged condition, current supply to the second electromagnetic solenoid valve is stopped so that it operates the switching valve to disengage the lockup clutch, thereby enabling to forcibly release the engagement without manipulation by the operator.
US08439791B2	Multi-speed planetary transmission with two compound planetary gear sets A multi-speed transmission includes an input member, an output member, a stationary member, and a first and a second compound planetary gear set. The first compound planetary gear set has a first, a second, a third, a fourth, and a fifth member. The second compound planetary gear set has a first, a second, a third, and a fourth member. The first member of the second compound planetary gear set is continuously connected for common rotation with the output member. An interconnecting member continuously connects the first member of the first planetary gear set for common rotation with the second member of the second planetary gear set. The transmission includes seven torque-transmitting mechanisms that are engagable to establish up to fifteen forward speed ratios between the input member and the output member.
US08439787B2	Transmission with mixed planetary layshaft structure A transmission includes an input member, an output member, a first and a second intermediate member, and a planetary gear set, all of which are coaxial and define a first axis of rotation. A first and a second layshaft are arranged to define a second axis of rotation and a third axis of rotation, respectively. Each of five sets of intermeshing gears transfer torque from a respective one of the intermediate members to a respective one of the layshafts via engagement of different respective ones of nine torque-transmitting mechanisms. A set of transfer gears transfers torque from the layshafts to the output member. One of the torque-transmitting mechanisms grounds a member of the planetary gear set to a stationary member. The nine torque-transmitting mechanisms are engagable in different combinations to establish up to eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08439786B2	Electric drive for a mobile vehicle An electric drive for a mobile vehicle comprises an electric motor (1) which powers a differential via a spur gear mechanism (3, 4, 6, 7). The electric motor (1), the spur gear mechanism (3, 4, 6, 7) and the differential (9) are each accommodated within a housing comprising three main housing portions (12, 13, 14), namely, a central housing portion (12), a first covering housing portion (13) and a second covering housing portion (14).
US08439782B2	Automatic transmission An automatic transmission includes an input shaft rotatable by power from a driving source. A transmission unit is capable of changing a speed of rotation of the input shaft to any one of speeds at gears. The transmission unit includes at least one planetary gear mechanism having three elements. An output member outputs the transferred power with a speed changed by the transmission unit. A transfer mechanism switches between a transfer state of power between a motor connection element and the output member and an open state of no transfer of power. The transfer mechanism is in the transfer state in a low-speed gear range and in the open state in a high-speed gear range.
US08439779B2	Front derailleur A front derailleur that includes a derailleur housing having a tubular clamp and a chain guide coupled to parallelogram arms. A pivotal transfer element transfers the shifting motion through a pull cable to the chain guide. The shifting momentum is supported by a derailleur housing having a support extension extending in a support direction along the bicycle frame beyond the hinge of the tubular clamp. The transfer element is pivotally mounted to the derailleur housing by a pivot pin. The return spring is disposed around the pivot pin and is supported on a spring stop of the derailleur housing. The return spring is partially surrounded by a spring cover, which is integrated into the derailleur housing, all of which is protected from dirt by a second covering. The bores for accepting the adjustment screws, which are inclined relative to the frame tube in order to improve accessibility, are located in the spring cover.
US08439766B1	System and method for enhancing golf A system and method for monitoring and verifying one or more shot events, such as the outcome of the shot, at a selected golf hole located at a golf course. In one particularly preferred embodiment, the invention allows for the awarding of a prize to any player that either hits or comes close to hitting a hole-in-one on a qualifying hole at any time the golf course is open and witnessed, without the need for the player to make any commitment to enter any contest or pre-register before taking the golf shot in order to be eligible. Declared winners may be entitled to claim different types of prizes that have been previously established depending on the level of sponsorship or the difficulty of a specific hole. The prizes need not be offset by insurance, as is typical, but instead are funded by advertisers as paid sponsors of the particular hole. Accordingly, the cost to the owner of the golf course may be borne entirely by advertising (such as signs positioned adjacent the green of the particular hole to which the contest applies) and may further represent an added source of revenue.
US08439763B2	Wedge clutch assembly The wedge clutch assembly is a clutch assembly for power tools, drilling rigs and like machinery utilizing rotating drills. In at least one embodiment the wedge clutch assembly has a pinion shaft adapted in shape to support a pinion gear, a bronze clutch cup, an optional thrust bearing, and a steel wedge clutch spring washer retained by a fastener. A further embodiment is particularly adapted for installation in the hub of a watercraft propeller. This watercraft propeller clutch embodiment deletes the clutch cup and includes opposite end caps to seal the assembly.
US08439761B2	Gaming cabinet with a gaming deck capable of being slid away from the display and rotated in either upward or downward directions A gaming cabinet includes a first side panel, a second side panel disposed away from and substantially parallel to the first side panel, and a video display carried between the first and second side panels, wherein the video display is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first and second side panels. The gaming cabinet further includes a translatable gaming deck carried between the first and second side panels, wherein the translatable gaming deck is arranged substantially perpendicular to the first and second side panels and the video display, wherein the translatable gaming deck is configured to be linearly translated away from the video display, and wherein the translatable gaming deck is configured to be rotated to a position substantially parallel to the video display when linearly translated away from the video display.
US08439756B2	Gaming system having a display/input device configured to interactively operate with external device A game table having a multiplayer interactive display/input device which enables multiple players to play primary or base wagering games and/or secondary or bonus games using the display/input device. The display/input device enables multiple players to simultaneously interact with the game table and the various games using the same display/input device. In various embodiments, the game table operates with one or more separate physical input devices, each having one or a plurality of the encoded patterns and each being sized and configured to be placed on top of the game table. The separate physical input devices enable the player to interact with the display/input device.
US08439752B2	Bonus trigger sounds building into a song A system and method of playing a multi-track musical composition during a wagering game in which musical tracks are successively added as bonus triggers occur, starting from an introduction portion of the musical composition and culminating in a main theme or chorus of the musical composition. Upon receipt of a wager input at a gaming terminal, a base wagering game is initiated during which several bonus triggers can occur, satisfying eligibility to conduct a bonus game. As each bonus trigger occurs, the musical composition adds a musical track to the introduction being played through audio speakers of the gaming terminal, increasing its instrumentation density to create a richer and denser sound. When the last bonus trigger occurs during the base wagering game, the music launches seamlessly from the introduction that has just been built up into the main theme or chorus of the music, which serves as the accompaniment music for the bonus game.
US08439750B2	Storage medium storing game program, game apparatus and game controlling method A game apparatus includes a camera, and with this camera, images in a plurality of poses decided in advance are imaged. From the imaged image in the plurality of poses, an image of a game character in each pose is created. In a battle game and a match-up game, the image in the pose corresponding to a motion according to an operation by a player is read, and by utilizing the read image in the pose, a character is displayed on a battle screen and a match-up screen.
US08439749B2	Gaming system having tools for pairing wagering games with available progressive games Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for conducting wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes a processor(s) and a memory device(s) storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the processors, cause the gaming system to: store, on at least one memory device, a progressive game having a first set of configuration parameters; store, on at least one memory device, a primary wagering game having a second set of configuration parameters; and compare, via at least one processor, the first set of configuration parameters with the second set of configuration parameters to determine, in accordance with at least a first rule set, if the primary wagering game can be activated and paired with the progressive game.
US08439747B2	Virtual playing chips in a multiuser online game network Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for executing game transactions in an online game to acquire virtual currency. One method includes an operation for detecting a request from a player to purchase virtual currency for use in the online game. Cash or credit is received, in an online transaction, to make the purchase of the virtual currency. The virtual currency of the online game is not redeemable for cash or credit so the virtual currency cannot be considered gambling proceeds. The method further includes an operation for crediting the player with an amount of virtual currency based on the amount of the received cash or credit.
US08439745B2	Electronic sweepstakes system providing multiple game presentations for revealing results from a single sweepstakes game A system, apparatus, and method are disclosed wherein a reveal request is initiated through a result reveal station by a person (user) who has previously made some purchase or donation and has been assigned one or more sweepstakes entries in an assignment order from a set of available sweepstakes entries for a sweepstakes game. This reveal request represents a request to reveal one or more of the results associated with the corresponding sweepstakes entries that have been assigned to the user. The reveal station employs a game presentation including various graphics and audio effects to show sweepstakes results in an entertaining fashion. In response to the reveal request, or perhaps even prior to the reveal request, one or more sweepstakes entries are selected to be revealed for the reveal request. The sweepstakes entries are selected in an order different from the order in which the sweepstakes entries were assigned to the user. The selection of entries is based on a set of game characteristics associated with the game presentation provided at the reveal station through which the reveal request is initiated.
US08439743B2	Gaming device having one or more shared award-modifier reels A gaming machine is disclosed having indicia of a plurality of spinning reels in a first set of reels and indicia of a plurality of spinning reels in a second set of reels. A determination is made as to whether the outcomes of the indicia of the plurality of spinning reels in the first and second sets of reels are winning outcomes. Award-multiplier indicia of a first shared spinning base game award-multiplier reel is positioned between the first and second set of reels. The first set of reels, second set of reels, and the base game award-multiplier reel form a contiguous set of reels having a common axis of rotation. The base game award-multiplier indicia modifies the winning outcome on the first set of reels, modifies the winning outcome on the second set of reels, includes a secondary game trigger symbol, or combinations thereof.
US08439741B2	Simulation of mechanical reels on a gaming machine A spinning reel slot machine has increased versatility, while having reels that are aesthetically similar to traditional mechanical reels. In one embodiment, the slot machine includes a plurality of optical fibers having first ends optically coupled to a surface of an image display device and seconds ends defining a curved display surface for displaying simulated mechanical reels to a player. In another embodiment, one or more of the mechanical reels has a transparent window at a location where a symbol would normally be present. A video display displays a video symbol in the transparent window. In yet a further embodiment, one of the plurality of mechanical reels has a miniature image display located at selected ones of the symbol regions for providing video symbols for the game. In yet further embodiments, a symbol region can produce more than one symbol in response to exposure at certain wavelengths or polarizations of light.
US08439737B1	Casino game with next round multipliers A player plays a first round of a casino game. If the player achieves a winning outcome on the first round of play, the payouts for the next round of play of the casino game will be increased. The amount of the increase is based on the category of the winning outcome on the first round of play. Each subsequent round of play continues to have increased payouts if the player continues to achieve winning outcomes. When the player has a losing outcome, the payouts revert to the base level. An extra wager may be required from the player to activate this feature during the play of the casino game.
US08439736B2	Extended play gaming systems and methods Various embodiments of extended play gaming systems and methods are disclosed. One method embodiment, among others, comprises providing a user interface that enables extended play in an electronic game, and providing an opportunity for increased compensation that varies based on when extended play is terminated.
US08439732B2	HVAC air valve A passive air valve for an HVAC module allows air to flow through a conditioning passage in a single direction. The valve can be disposed on a downstream side of a heat exchanger. The valve can inhibit back airflow from one of the conditioning passages to the other one of the conditioning passages.
US08439727B1	Drill bit sharpening tool A drill bit sharpening system using a typical bench grinder with a removable table for refurbishing a dull or broken drill bit has a bench grinder with a motor, a sharpening wheel, and a generally planar positioning table. The system has a generally planar rigid sharpening table with a securing means for rigidly attaching to the positioning table in a removable manner. The system has a pivotally mounted positioning component on the table top surface. The positioning component has a generally “L” shaped cross-section in a transverse plane. The positioning component has a centrally located pivoting means for mounting to a sharpening table top surface.
US08439724B2	Abrasive waterjet machining and method to manufacture a curved rotor blade retention slot A method of machining a blade retention slot with an abrasive water jet machining. A straight blade retention slot along an X-axis then a at least one side of the straight blade retention slot is abrasive water jet machined to generate a curved side of the blade retention slot defined within an X-Y plane.
US08439722B2	Recovery bra A brassiere garment and associated method for dressing is provided contemplating a strap that is operably trained around a user's back and sides, a cup attached at each end of the strap, and an adjustable attachment feature connecting the cups together.
US08439719B2	Method of encapsulating organic light emitting display device In a method of encapsulating an organic light emitting display device, when a lower substrate and a encapsulating substrate are encapsulated, the encapsulating process can be simplified since a sealant coating process can be performed without a mask aligning process, thereby reducing manufacturing cost. The method comprises the steps of: preparing an encapsulating substrate for encapsulating a lower substrate on which a display unit, which includes the organic light emitting display device, is formed; forming a black mask on a region of the encapsulating substrate, which is not a sealant region, corresponding to outer regions of the display unit; and forming a sealant on the sealant region.
US08439717B2	Device and method for manufacturing active matrix substrate, and device and method for manufacturing display panel A device for manufacturing an active matrix substrate including a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, in which a short-circuit defect in the active matrix substrate is detected and repaired, includes a stage (30a) configured to place a test substrate (19) which will become the active matrix substrate, a defective pixel detector (40a) configured to input a test signal to the test substrate (19) placed on the stage (30a), and electrically detect coordinates of a defective pixel in which a short-circuit defect has occurred, and a defect position identifier (50) configured to input the test signal to the test substrate (19) placed on the stage (30a) to cause the defective pixel detected by the defective pixel detector (40a) to generate heat, and sense the heat generation in the defective pixel using far-infrared thermography, thereby identifying a position of the short-circuit defect in the defective pixel.
US08439713B2	High-power connector having heat dissipation structure The present invention is to provide a high-power connector having a heat dissipation structure, which includes a cover, a plurality of resilient metal terminals and a plurality of auxiliary metal plates. The cover is made of an insulating material and defines a plurality of receiving spaces therein. The resilient metal terminals are fitted in the receiving spaces respectively. The front section of each resilient metal terminal has an arcuate shape, passes through a lateral side of the cover, and is exposed from the cover. The front section of each auxiliary metal plate is electrically connected to the corresponding resilient metal terminal, and the rear section of each auxiliary metal plate is electrically connected to a circuit board. Since the auxiliary metal plates have relatively low impedance capable of rapidly releasing the heat generated by the connector, the components of the connector are prevented from premature aging attributable to high temperature.
US08439707B2	Compression connector for multi-conductor cable A multi-conductor cable connector is provided, the connector including a cable connection portion, wherein the cable connection portion receives a prepared multi-conductor cable having a plurality of conductive strands concentrically sharing a common central axis, and a multi-contact portion coupled to the cable connection portion, the multi-contact portion having a plurality of contacts non-concentrically aligned with the cable connection portion. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.
US08439705B2	Modular jack with sheilding plate between magnetic components An electrical connector (100) includes an insulative housing (2) defining a receiving cavity (20) for insertion of a mating connector, a terminal module (3) including a number of mating terminals (311) projecting into the receiving cavity and a number of magnetic components connected with the mating terminals, and a respective shielding plate (33) located between adjacent magnetic components to reduce crosstalk.
US08439704B2	Horizontally configured connector with edge card mounting structure A connector has a plurality of mating blades in the form of circuit cards, arranged horizontally in a vertical stack. The circuit cards are supported in a vertical array in mating portions of the connector and are enclosed by sidewalls of the mating portions. In order to support the circuit cards, the sidewalls of each mating portion are slotted and the circuit cards are provided with mounting wings that extend outwardly therefrom and which are received in the slots. Reentrant notches are provided in the circuit cards adjacent where the wings extend out from the bodies of the circuit cards.
US08439699B2	Lever type electrical connector A lever type electrical connector has a case. A connector terminal is provided in the case so as to be slidable in a first direction, and is operable to engage with a mating connector terminal by being moved in the first direction. A handle is connected with the connector terminal. A first lever is pivotably attached to the case, and is connected to the handle. The first lever is operable to be moved so as to move the handle in the first direction. A first lock arm is pivotably attached to the case. A first end of the first lock arm is operable to be come in contact with the mating connector terminal. A second end of the first lock arm opposite to the first end is operable to be disengaged from the handle when the first end is urged from the mating connector terminal. The second end is operable to be engaged with the handle so as to prevent the handle from moving in the first direction when the first end is not urged from the mating connector terminal.
US08439696B2	Card connector with improved tray member and metal cover A card connector (100) includes an insulative housing (2), a metal cover (1) attached to the insulative housing to jointly define a receiving space (10), a number of contacts (3) fixed in the insulative housing, and a tray member (4) slidably received in the receiving space. The metal cover includes a first locking arm (13) extending into the receiving space. Each contact includes a contacting section (32) protruding into the receiving space. The tray member includes a frame (41) and a metal piece (42) cooperative with the frame to define a card-receiving cavity (40). The metal piece includes a first tab (421) to make contact with the first locking arm (13) when the tray member is inserted into the receiving space (10) along a tray-insertion direction.
US08439691B1	Electrical connector for realizing a high signal transmission rate An electrical connector includes an insulating body, a plurality of terminals disposed in top and bottom surfaces of the insulating body, a holding body mounted to a rear of the insulating body and defining a plurality of positioning apertures penetrating vertically therethrough, and an insulating housing having a base body and a tongue board extending forward from a front of the base body. Each terminal has a soldering tail stretching downward beyond a bottom of the rear of the holding body to be positioned in the positioning aperture. A bottom of the tongue board defines a receiving recess extending longitudinally to penetrate through the base body. A rear end of the receiving recess penetrates downward through the base body to define an opening. The insulating body with the terminals and the holding body is inserted forward in the receiving recess, and the holding body is secured in the opening.
US08439690B2	Connector The present invention provides a technique that is easy for soldering fixture to a printed circuit board and is easy to handle. Regarding a connector having an insulating base portion and a conductive portion, in at least one direction of a surface to which the conductive portion is exposed, a metal plate extending from a side constituting the surface to another side not adjacent to the side is included. The metal plate can be fixed to a circuit board with solder, and deformation of the connector can be made less likely to occur.
US08439686B2	Device, system, and method for treating psychiatric disorders Provided are a device, system, and method for treating a patient having posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other such psychiatric disorder. An event being recounted by the patient is recorded and a sensory environment of the patient is controlled so as to administer exposure therapy to the patient. Patient mental state may be monitored during administration of the exposure therapy to the patient, and the exposure therapy may be varied in correspondence to the monitored mental state of the patient. In one embodiment, hierarchy assembly means creates a treatment hierarchy based on input from the patient, and hierarchy navigation means navigates within the treatment hierarchy in response to the mental state of the patient.
US08439683B2	Food recognition using visual analysis and speech recognition A method and system for analyzing at least one food item on a food plate is disclosed. A plurality of images of the food plate is received by an image capturing device. A description of the at least one food item on the food plate is received by a recognition device. The description is at least one of a voice description and a text description. At least one processor extracts a list of food items from the description; classifies and segments the at least one food item from the list using color and texture features derived from the plurality of images; and estimates the volume of the classified and segmented at least one food item. The processor is also configured to estimate the caloric content of the at least one food item.
US08439681B2	Method of assessing oral health risk A method of oral health risk assessment is provided in which diagnostic data from an oral health detection device and patient risk factor data is processed to provide a integrated risk measure relating to a patient's dental health. The patient risk factor data preferably includes risk factor data such as pathological risk factors, protective risk factors, historical factors, self care factors, behavioral factors, and extrinsic factors. The integrated risk assessment and patient data is preferably provided to a remote server for access by various authorized stakeholders.
US08439679B2	Extractor for broken tooth root The invention is an extractor for roots of broken teeth. This extractor has a square head spiral. That square head spiral has a spiral anchor and a square head with optional depressions in the sides of that square head. In that square head opposite the spiral anchor is a threaded hole. Included is a generally cubical square head socket with a lower square opening. There is a centrally located passage through the top of that generally cubical square head socket. The invention also has a thumb screw device with a rotator knob part and a threaded section. In operation the square head spiral anchor is screwed into the patient's broken tooth and the cubical square head socket is placed over the square head. The rotator knob part is threaded into the square head threaded hole. The extractor for roots of broken teeth is ready to remove the root of the broken tooth. The square head socket may have an extension. The invention includes a process for removing roots of broken teeth using the above device.
US08439674B2	Systems and methods for intra-oral drug delivery Systems and methods are disclosed for intra-oral delivery of drugs.
US08439668B2	Candle container and candle with extinguishing properties A container for holding a combustible is provided, the container having a first portion for receiving the combustible and a second portion containing an extinguishing substance, characterized in that the extinguishing substance is in thermal contact with the first portion and is adapted to be set free if it exceeds a predefined temperature. Also provided is a candle comprising such a container, wherein the first portion contains candle wax, lamp oil or petroleum gel, and a wick.
US08439666B2	Methods and materials for fabricating laminate nanomolds and nanoparticles therefrom A laminate nanomold includes a layer of perfluoropolyether defining a cavity that has a predetermined shape and a support layer coupled with the layer of perfluoropolyether. The laminate can also include a tie-layer coupling the layer of perfluoropolyether with the support layer. The tie-layer can also include a photocurable component and a thermal curable component. The cavity can have a broadest dimension of less than 500 nanometers.
US08439665B2	Ribbon liquefier for use in extrusion-based digital manufacturing systems A ribbon liquefier comprising an outer liquefier portion configured to receive thermal energy from a heat transfer component, and a channel at least partially defined by the outer liquefier portion, where the channel has dimensions that are configured to receive the ribbon filament, and where the ribbon liquefier is configured to melt the ribbon filament received in the channel to at least an extrudable state with the received thermal energy to provide a melt flow. The dimensions of the channel are further configured to conform the melt flow from an axially-asymmetric flow to a substantially axially-symmetric flow in an extrusion tip connected to the ribbon liquefier.
US08439657B2	Concrete pump A Concrete Pump is a mechanical device comprising of a round funnel shape hoper, pump outlet, rotating pressure and wear plates. Attached to the rotating pressure and wear plates are rotating pump cylinders and opposite the pump cylinders are a rotating wear plate. Pressed against the rotating wear plates is the stationary wear. A hoper outlet and a pump outlet flange are attached to the stationary wear plate. The pump functions as follows: concrete from the hoper passes through the stationary and rotating wear plates into one pump cylinder, at the same time, concrete from another cylinder (previously field with concrete) is pushed through the rotating wear plate and through the stationary wear plate into the pump's outlet. When the pistons reach the end of the cylinders the rotating wear plates and concrete cylinders rotate by 180 degrees and the process is repeated again. The pump is designed so that an entire volume of concrete or similar pumping substance is pumped out of the hoper.
US08439655B2	Cooling channel for a fan motor for a ventilation, heating, and/or air conditioning system Ventilating device (1) comprising a casing (6) intended to channel at least one air flow (3) created by a blower wheel (5), the said casing (6) delimites a main air channel (7) in which a main air flow (3a) circulates and a secondary air channel (8) intended to bring towards a motor (4) a secondary air flow (3b) in order to cool the motor (4), the said secondary air channel (8) comprising a inlet (11) arranged in a main channel wall (7c) and a outlet arranged in a plan containing a casing end by which the wheel (5) is introduced, the said secondary channel (8) further comprising a means intended to change at least twice the direction of the secondary air flow (3b) when the secondary air flow (3b) passes through the secondary air channel (8).
US08439654B2	Methods and apparatus for pumping liquefied gases A method and system for pumping liquefied gas are provided. The system for pumping liquefied gas can includes a container having an access port with a central axis disposed at an upper end thereof, a pump disposed within the container, and at least one pipe segment having a first end and a second end. The pump can include a fluid inlet in fluid communication with a liquefied gas stored in the container and a fluid outlet. The first end of the pipe segment can be in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the pump. The second end of the pipe segment can be in fluid communication with an exterior of the container. The pump can be capable of lifting the liquefied gas through the at least one pipe segment and discharging the liquefied gas from the container at a pressure sufficient for distribution or further processing.
US08439646B2	Engine blade with excessive leading edge loading A free end of a blade of a fluid flow machine has a skeleton line camber distribution having an excessive value to a relative skeleton line camber of at least α=0.35 for a related running length of s=0.1 in a blade profile flow line section between the free end and a blade section at 30% of a main flow path width from the free end. S* is a local running length relative to a total running length of the profile skeleton line and α* is an angular change of the skeleton line relative to a total camber of the skeleton line from a leading edge to a related running length s. The skeleton line camber distribution runs between leading edge point V (s=0, α=0) and trailing edge point H (s=1, α*=1).
US08439640B2	Propeller blade pitch control system A propeller blade pitch control system includes a propeller hub for mounting at least one propeller blade, and a propeller shaft which rotates about an axis to rotationally drive the propeller hub. A pitch change yoke located within the propeller hub is configured to change a pitch of the at least one propeller blade in response to hydraulic fluid flow to a pitch change actuator. A propeller gearbox includes a first, rear end and a second, forward end located between the first, rear end and the pitch change yoke, and is configured to apply torque to the propeller hub. A hydraulic transfer bearing located between the first, rear end and the second, forward end of the propeller gearbox is operable to selectively permit a flow of hydraulic fluid from at least one hydraulic flow controller to the pitch change actuator.
US08439639B2	Filter system for blade outer air seal A gas turbine engine component having a filter mounted adjacent an impingement cavity to filter particles out of a secondary cooling airflow outboard of a cooling channel in communication with the secondary cooling airflow.
US08439638B2	Blade pitch controller, wind turbine generator, and method of controlling blade pitch A hydraulic cylinder is coupled to blades of a wind turbine generator and actuated to change a pitch angle of the blade. A variable displacement hydraulic pump supplies hydraulic oil to the hydraulic cylinder, and a discharge pressure of the pump does not follow a load pressure. When the discharge pressure of the hydraulic pump becomes a set pressure, a pressure control valve is opened to change a discharge amount of the hydraulic pump, and to make the discharge pressure of the hydraulic pump to be a pressure smaller than a cut off pressure. Further, a setting control unit sets the set pressure based on the hydraulic pressure that the hydraulic cylinder requires such that the set pressure becomes a minimum pressure required to change the pitch angle to a predetermined angle by the hydraulic cylinder.
US08439637B2	Bellows preload and centering spring for a fan drive gear system An assembly includes a first tapered roller bearing and a second tapered roller bearing and a bellows spring. The bellows spring is disposed adjacent the first tapered roller bearing and the second tapered roller bearing.
US08439635B2	Apparatus and method for locking a composite component An apparatus and method for locking a composite component such as blade or vane of a turbine engine is disclosed herein. The disclosed lock can also be used generally to fix the position of composite structures. The lock includes a first locking member including a first structure operable to at least partially fix the first locking member along an axis of a slot for receiving a blade or a vane. The lock also includes a second locking member including a second structure operable to engage the blade or vane. The first and second locking members are slidably engaged with one another along mating ramped surfaces.
US08439634B1	BOAS with cooled sinusoidal shaped grooves A BOAS with a blade tip shroud having rows of sinusoidal shaped grooves on a bottom side, each groove having a row of thin slots extending along the aft side of the groove and opening into the groove, and each thin slot connected to a plurality of metering holes that open into a cooling air supply cavity formed on the top surface of the tip shroud.
US08439633B2	Hollow steam guide diffuser having increased pressure recovery A steam turbine includes a diffuser that has a bearing cone and an inner plate of a steam guide that define a passage through which steam flows. An outer plate is disposed with respect to the inner plate such that an opening is located between the inner and outer plates. At least one hole is located in the inner plate. A water tube is disposed in the opening, the water tube having water flowing therethrough which condenses at least a portion of a flow of steam flowing in the passage thereby creating at least a partial vacuum within the opening. The vacuum creates a suction effect through the at least one hole in the inner plate that can cause at least a portion of the flow of steam in the passage to attach itself to an inner surface of the inner plate.
US08439628B2	Heat transfer enhancement in internal cavities of turbine engine airfoils An airfoil includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, a suction side and a pressure side; a plurality of internal cooling cavities extending radially within the airfoil, one of the plurality of internal cavities extending along the trailing edge. The trailing edge is provided with a plurality of coolant exit apertures extending therealong. A plurality of vortex generators is formed on an internal surface of at least one of the pressure and suction sides of the airfoil. The vortex generators are arranged in radially spaced relationship in one of the plurality of internal cooling cavities, extending substantially parallel to and in proximity to the plurality of coolant exit apertures.
US08439627B2	Steam turbine and cooling method thereof A steam turbine includes a casing, a rotor arranged inside the casing so as to extend in an axial direction of the casing, a rotor disk integrally formed with the rotor, a rotor-side implanting portion formed in the rotor disk, a plurality of moving blades arranged on the rotor disk in a circumferential direction of the rotor, and a moving blade-side implanting portion formed in the moving blade, in which the moving blade-side implanting portions of the moving blades are engaged with the rotor-side implanting portions, respectively. A cooling medium flows through a gap formed at least on a blade portion side of the moving blade among gaps formed between the moving blade-side implanting portions and the rotor-side implanting portions.
US08439619B2	Screw for sealing extruded tapped hole in metallic sheet A casing includes a metallic sheet and a screw. The metallic sheet is formed with an extruded tapped hole surrounded by an arcuate portion in the metallic sheet and a sleeve integrally with and depending from the arcuate portion. The sleeve has internal threads. On the other hand, the screw is configured to seal the extruded tapped hole of the metallic sheet. The screw has a threaded section configured to be mated with the internal threads of the sleeve of the metallic sheet, and a flat head capable of abutting against the arcuate portion and sitting flush with the metallic sheet when the screw is placed in the extruded tapped hole of the metallic sheet.
US08439618B2	Fastener having controllably variable preload and method of forming same A method of forming a fastener that includes an axial centerline, a seating surface angled with respect to the axial centerline at an angle α and adapted to contact an angled seat of a bore, the smallest diameter of the seating surface being designated a seating diameter, and a threaded connecting portion for engaging a threaded portion of a bore, the threaded connecting portion including a point designated a proximal contact point, the distance from the seating diameter to the proximal contact point in the direction of the axial centerline being the clamped length of the fastener, the method including steps of determining a value for at least a first one of angle α, seating diameter D and clamped length L, solving the equation α=arctan (D/(2L)) to calculate at least a second one of angle α, seating diameter D and clamped length L, and forming a fastener based on the determined and calculated values. Also a fastener and fastener system based on the method.
US08439611B2	Transport unit A transport unit including a plate shaped transport base with cylindrical cargo objects placed there on disposed with their center axes parallel to one another and in at least one layer, wherein the center axes respectively have a distance from one another and wherein enveloping surfaces of adjacent objects are in a line contact with one another, and cargo securing devices configured as tension devices, through which the objects are secured on the base against sliding or rolling. A base which is characterized by an improved utilization of the transport volume and for which the fixation of the objects can be provided in a simply and comfortably, it is provided that tension devices engage a face of the objects and at least each object disposed at an edge of a layer is connected at the face with a tension device in a force transmitting manner.
US08439610B2	Load securing element and system for securing a load A load securing element with a base body includes a coupling portion for coupling a stop means, a support portion provided for insertion into an opening, and a connecting portion, which connects the coupling portion and the support portion to one another and thus keeps them spaced apart in such a way that a slot-like receiver is formed on the base body. The receiver is delimited at its upper side by the coupling portion, at its lower side by the support portion and at its rear by the connecting portion and is otherwise open, wherein the width of the receiver corresponds to a multiple of its height.
US08439602B1	Flow control liner system An apparatus is disclosed that includes a ditch liner formed with two opposing walls. A plurality of friction control corrugations is formed in both of the two opposing walls. The apparatus also includes one or more subsurface aprons.
US08439598B2	Oscillatory compaction method A method for compacting a surface of granular materials is disclosed. The method is applicable to wheeled compaction equipment such as pneumatic-tire compactors, drum-type compactors and asphalt compactors. The propel system includes a controller programmed to send a first at least substantially constant propel command that propels the compaction equipment in a forward direction. The controller then changes the speed of the compaction equipment by providing a second varying propel command that may increase or decrease the speed resulting from the first command. As a result, the speed of the compaction equipment oscillates.
US08439597B2	Asphalt paving seam sealer system A new method of sealing the seam between two adjacent sections of asphalt pavement deploys an adhesive elastomeric gasket which completely envelopes the vertical faces of the adjacent lanes on three sides—i.e., above, below and along each face. Since the gasket extends partly underneath each section of paving, it is laid down before each lane is paved, thereby taking advantage of the heat of the fresh asphalt to effectively and rapidly cure the adhesive component of the gasket to insure a strong bond on both sides of the seam.
US08439596B1	Textured tile system and installation method A detectable warning tile is a molded sheet having generally planar top and bottom surfaces, the top surface having a plurality of spaced apart truncated domes in relief thereon, the bottom surface having a grid pattern of depressions therein. Partitions rising from the bottom surface are positioned within the interior of the domes and are integral therewith. The bottom surface may have an adhesive layer for bonding with a solid under-surface. Alternately, anchors may be engaged with the bottom surface for securing the tile in a uncured cement, concrete or blacktop surface.
US08439593B2	Quarter turn locking mechanism Apparatus and methods are disclosed for securely, yet releasably, connecting separate parts. A shaft engages a cooperating socket to form a connection capable of sustaining service loads. The shaft has a protruding pin which slides within a slot in the socket to guide the shaft into locked engagement with the socket. The shaft also has a cantilever body which wedges into a tapered region in the socket to frictionally bind the shaft and socket together.
US08439589B2	Device for rotatably bearing an aircraft interior fitting component A device for rotatably bearing an aircraft interior fitting component, in particular a lowerable shell of a luggage rack includes a bearing bush as well as a bearing bolt which is adapted to be rotatably accommodated in the bearing bush. The bearing bolt is disposed in a bearing bolt guide such that it is movable between a first and a second position and retainable in at least one position in the bearing bolt guide by a retaining device.
US08439588B2	Fluid powered bath accessory A fluid-powered bath brush that uses the kinetic energy of moving water to operate skin-cleaning attachments. In one embodiment, the bath brush comprises a brush head member having at least one brush head housing, a water wheel, a first drive gear, a second drive gear and a brush element rotatably mounted thereon, an adaptor with an outlet side adapted to be connected to a showerhead and an inlet side adapted to be connected to a first fluid-dispensing means that carries water to the showerhead and contains a diverter which diverts the flow of water from the first fluid-dispensing means to the showerhead to the flow of water from the first fluid-dispensing means to the brush head member and a flexible second fluid-dispensing means containing at least two tubes for carrying water connecting the brush head member and the adaptor.
US08439586B2	Powered internal feed roller A hand-held, battery powered liquid applicator having an on-board reservoir. An electric motor drives a piston in the reservoir via a pinion gear member and rack gear. A gear shifter may disengage the pinion gear member from the rack gear. A battery compartment may have a door has recess to enable a user to grasp a dry cell located farthest from the door. The rack gear may have modified profile teeth at the end of travel to allow the pinion gear member to slip when the piston is urged past the end of travel. The piston may have a length substantially equal to a characteristic length of the reservoir. Liquid may be drawn into the reservoir by powered or manual retraction of the piston and liquid may be delivered from the reservoir to an applicator head by powered or manual motion of the piston into the reservoir.
US08439585B2	Eraser and marker holder for white boards The present invention refers to an article to be used to hold and carry writing instruments, such as an eraser and a markers for a white board; the article includes means to support the article in a removable way on a flat surface, such as a wall, a blackboard, a table or a similar surface, so that both the eraser and the markers can be easily located by the user during a working session. In the embodiment illustrated, the article has the capacity to hold one eraser and up to three conventional markers.
US08439580B2	Vibrating device and image equipment having the same A dust-screening member arranged in front of an image forming unit that holds an image forming element configured to generate an optical image, is formed into a box shape that includes a plate-shaped polygonal light transmitting part that passes light entering from or to the image forming element, and a plurality of foot portions that tilt by a predetermined angle and extend from all sides of the light transmitting part or portions near all sides in a direction in which the image forming unit is located. The light transmitting part and the plurality of foot portions are formed using the same material. A vibrating member is fixed to at least one of the plurality of foot portions. The dust-screening member is held by an elastic force of an elastic member arranged between the plurality of foot portions and a support member configured to support the plurality of foot portions.
US08439578B2	Opto-electronic assembly for high speed transmission The optoelectronic assembly for high speed signal transmission based on surface-emitting/receiving components is disclosed. The assembly contains a mounting plate with a top side used for the mounting of the components; single or multiple electrooptical or optoelectronic transducer components with the optical ports of the transducer on the top side and a bottom side used for assembly; a micro-mirror component; an optical transmission path wherein the transmission axis is oriented substantially parallel to the surface of the transducer components and to the top side of the mounting plate; and a transducer component mounted with the bottom side on the mounting plate near a micro-mirror component mounted above the transducer component in such a configuration that the optical transmission path to or from the transducer is reflected at the mirror surface such that the transducer is optically coupled to this same transmission path.
US08439576B2	Photoelectric connector assembly A photoelectric connector assembly includes a first and a second connector and a photoelectric signal conversion module. The first connector defines a mating cavity, first terminals including contacting sections exposing to the mating cavity and a first light transmission module including convex lenses at a front thereof exposing to the mating cavity and first light ports at a rear thereof. The second connector includes an insulating seat and second terminals. The seat defines a rear mating end loading the second terminals and a receiving cavity opening upwards. The conversion module is inserted in the receiving cavity and includes second light ports coupled with the first light ports of the first light transmission module and conductive pads touching with the second terminal.
US08439574B2	Tapered roller bearing A tapered roller bearing includes an outer ring, an inner ring, a tapered roller interposed between the outer ring and the inner ring, and a cage holding the tapered roller. The tapered roller bearing is for being used in an idler portion of an automobile transmission that switches between an idle state in which the outer ring rotates freely in relation to the inner ring and a shift state in which the outer ring rotates synchronously with the inner ring. In one embodiment, the tapered roller bearing has a ratio of roller dynamic load rating Cr to static load rating Cor of Cor/Cr≧1.4. In an alternative embodiment, MoS2 processing is performed on a surface of the tapered roller and the tapered roller bearing has a ratio of roller dynamic load rating Cr to static load rating Cor of Cor/Cr≧1.3.
US08439570B2	Rolling bearing assembly and method of forming a lubrication device therefor A rolling bearing assembly includes a rolling bearing which includes a plurality of rolling elements interposed between an inner ring and an outer ring thereof and retained by a cage, the cage being in a sliding contact with a guiding surface provided on an inner periphery of the outer ring and a lubrication device for supplying a lubricant to the rolling bearing. The lubrication device includes an annular groove extending along the inner periphery of the outer ring in adjoining relation with the guiding surface of the outer ring and storing a grease therein and an annular grease reservoir member disposed in proximity to the annular groove and storing a grease therein. The grease stored in the grease reservoir member and the grease stored in the annular groove are interconnected by the grease present between the reservoir and the annular groove.
US08439565B2	Remotely-aligned arcuate detector array for high energy X-ray imaging A scanning system and methods for inspecting contents of a container. High-energy penetrating radiation collimated into a fan beam illuminates an inspected container from one side, while a plurality of detector plates are disposed on the opposite side of the container. Each detector plate has a plurality of detector modules, each of which, in turn, is disposed on a remotely activated alignment and has multiple detector elements. A controller governs the orientation of each of the plurality of detector plates based at least on the detector signal generated by its detector elements such that each detector element of each detector module of each detector plate may be aligned to within a specified fraction of the transverse dimension of the fan beam as measured at the exit slot.
US08439564B2	Fluoroscopy operator protection device A radiation protection device attaches to the C-arm of a fluoroscope and shields and collimates the X-ray beam between the X-ray source and the patient and between the patient and the image intensifier. One embodiment has a radiation shield of X-ray opaque material that surrounds the C-arm of the fluoroscopy system, the X-ray source and the image intensifier. A padded slot fits around the patient's body. Another embodiment has conical or cylindrical radiation shields that extend between the X-ray source and the patient and between the patient and the image intensifier. The radiation shields have length adjustments and padded ends to fit the device to the patient. The radiation protection device may be motorized to advance and withdraw the radiation shields. A blanket-like radiation shield covers the patient in the area surrounding where the X-ray beam enters the body.
US08439563B1	Gas-actuated thermometer The gas-actuated thermometer is formed as a unitary, monolithic glass structure with a gas bulb at one end and an indicator tube extending therefrom. The bulb and tube are permanently and hermetically sealed to contain the actuating gas therein. A closed cell foam indicator resides in the indicator tube. The indicator travels along the tube in accordance with the expansion and contraction of the gas within the bulb and adjacent portion of the tube. A second gas or mechanical spring is provided in the opposite end of the tube to balance the pressure of the indicator gas. The indicator tube, and preferably also the bulb, are flattened to an elliptical or similar cross-sectional shape. This facilitates the fit of the device for use as an oral medical thermometer, and the wider cross section enables both Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales to be marked along the indicator tube.
US08439560B1	System and method for determining the blackbody temperature of an electrical discharge A system for determining a blackbody temperature of an electrical discharge including a light-tight enclosure, a viewing aperture sheet received in the light-tight enclosure, the viewing aperture sheet having a first side and a second, opposite side, and defining at least one viewing aperture having a known area, a radiometer having a sensor aperture, the sensor aperture being received in the light-tight enclosure on the first side of the viewing aperture sheet, the sensor aperture being positioned a known distance from the viewing aperture, and an electric current source having an electrode, the electrode being received in the light-tight enclosure on the second side of the viewing aperture sheet.
US08439558B2	Winding and time-setting control device for a timepiece movement A winding and time-setting control device for a timepiece movement including, connected in rotation, a movement stem secured in rotation to a sliding pinion driven in translation by a lever between winding and time-setting positions, and a control stem sliding between winding and time-setting control positions, actuating a pull-out mechanism. The mechanism includes a first pull-out piece including, about a first axis, an arm movable with the control stem, and a pivot cooperating with a complementary pivot of a second pull-out piece driving the lever and including an arm movable inside a housing in the movement stem. A timepiece incorporating a device of this type is also disclosed.
US08439556B2	Synchronous escapement for a timepiece mechanism Escape wheel (1) including a toothed impulse wheel (2) and a toothed release wheel (4) pivoting synchronously about an axis (D1). The toothed release wheel (4) includes moveable gears (5) each with a release tooth (6), radially moveable relative to the axis (D1) and returned to a position of balance by first return device (7), and a locking tooth (8), returned in a first radial direction (S1) towards a stop member by second return device (9). The impulse tooth (6) includes drive device (11) arranged to cooperate, when the impulse tooth moves in a second opposite radial direction (S2), with complementary drive device (12) of the locking tooth (8) for driving the locking tooth in the second direction (S2) and, when the impulse tooth moves in the first direction (S1), to remain at a distance from the complementary drive device (12) without driving the locking tooth (8).
US08439555B2	Tourbillon without the weight of the balance Tourbillon mechanism for a watch having a turning cage mounted in pivoting manner in a first and second cage bearing lodged in fixed elements of the watch; an escapement mobile integral with the cage; and a regulating element in the form of a spiral balance capable of oscillating around a balance staff according to pulses received from the escapement mobile. The balance staff is mounted in pivoting manner in the balance bearings lodged outside the cage. The outer extremity of the spiral hairspring is fastened to the cage through a hairspring stud.
US08439554B2	Whisk attachment A whisk attachment for use with an automated mixer is disclosed. The whisk attachment includes a coupling member, at least two coil members, and a brace. The first coil member has first and second ends attached to the coupling member to define the first coil member having a substantially parabolic shape. The second coil member also has first and second ends attached to the coupling member to define the second coil member also having a substantially parabolic shape. The brace is attached to each of the first and second coil members to resist relative movement of the first coil member with respect to the second coil member.
US08439552B2	Backlight unit of display apparatus A backlight unit of a display apparatus is provided. The backlight unit includes a display housing, a light source which is arranged along an inner circumference the display housing, a light guide plate through which light of the light source is transmitted, and which forms surface light, an optical sheet which is disposed on an upper side of the light guide plate to upwardly diffuse the light of the light source transmitted through the light guide plate, a plurality of first fixing units, each of which fix both the light guide plate and the optical sheet, a plurality of second fixing units which support only the light guide plate, and a support frame which is connected to the display housing to fix the optical sheet to the display housing provisionally, and has a window formed on a surface corresponding to the light guide plate to allow light to pass therethrough.
US08439550B2	Frame connecting member and light emitting diode lighting apparatus fabricated by using the same Provided is a frame connecting member for connecting a plurality of frame members to provide a frame of a lighting apparatus. The frame connecting member includes a body, an engaging unit connected to the body, the engaging unit being configured to be coupled to the plurality of the frame members, respectively, and a light leakage prevention unit connected to the body, the light leakage prevention unit being configured to prevent a light emitted from the lighting apparatus from leaking.
US08439548B2	Symmetric serrated edge light guide having circular base segments The present invention provides a planar light guide film for a backlight unit having at least one point light source, the light guide film comprising a light input surface for receiving light from the point light source, a light redirecting surface for redirecting light received from the light input surface and a light output surface for outputting at least the light redirected from the light redirecting surface. The light input surface further comprises a composite lens structure having a circular tip segment with a first contact angle, and a first and second circular base segments with a second contact angle, the second contact angle being greater than the first contact angle and the second contact angle being equal to each other. Further, the circular tip segment satisfies the following equation: y1=a1+√{square root over ((r12−x2))} and the circular base segments satisfies the following equations: y2=b2+√{square root over ((r22−(x+a2)2))} y3=b3+√{square root over ((r32−(x−a3)2))}.
US08439547B2	Backlight module An exemplary illuminating apparatus includes a light guiding plate, a light source facing a light input surface of the light guiding plate, and a complementary color element adjacent to the light source. The light source comprises a number of LEDs which emit light with at least two wavelengths. The at least two wavelengths light mix with each other to gain a white light. The complementary color element is configured for receiving light emitted from adjacent, outmost LED and converting the light into white light. The white light is reflected by the complementary color element and emits from the light guiding plate through the light output surface.
US08439546B2	Large area light panel and screen Embodiments of a panel lighting apparatus and methods of its manufacture are described. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a light source, an at least partially transparent panel comprising a planar front surface and a planar back surface, the panel disposed in conjunction with the light source such that light from the light source is input into at least one edge of the panel and guided therein, and a plurality of light extraction dots disposed on the planar back surface, the plurality of light extraction dots configured to reflect light incident on the planar back surface and extract light from the light source propagating in the panel through the planar front surface.
US08439545B2	Backlight assembly and display apparatus having the same A backlight assembly includes; a light source including a light emitting surface through which a light exits and an optical member including a first surface disposed adjacent to the light source and a second surface disposed substantially opposite to the first surface, wherein the optical member covers the light source and guides the light therethrough, wherein the optical member includes; an incident surface to which the light is incident, the incident surface being connected with the first surface corresponding to the light source, an optical pattern disposed on the second surface and corresponding to the light source, the optical pattern reflecting a first light of the light incident through the incident surface through total internal reflection and a light guide pattern disposed on the first surface, wherein the light guide pattern directs the reflected first light to an exterior of the optical member.
US08439543B2	Light source unit having a mounting rib and two pluralities of fins each extending in different directions A light source unit mounted in a mount portion of a vehicle includes a heat block and a reflector accommodated in an imaginary cylinder that is defined by a holding device for holding an outer circumference of a lens. A first heat dissipating portion and a second heat dissipating portion, which are partitioned by a partition plate, are provided on an outer circumferential surface of the heat block. A plurality of fins are projected on the first heat dissipating portion which is disposed on a lens side of the heat block so as to extend in a circumferential direction, and a second plurality of fins are projected on the second heat dissipating portion so as to extend in an axial direction of the heat block. The partition plate includes a mounting rib, and a mounting device is provided on the mounting rib for mounting the light source unit in the mount portion of the vehicle.
US08439538B2	Vehicle light A vehicle light can achieve the same or similar heat dissipation performance as that of a conventional vehicle light while having a smaller height than that of the conventional vehicle light, thereby improving space utilization efficiency for a limited installation space of a vehicle body. The vehicle light can include a housing, a cover lens attached to the housing to define a lighting chamber between itself and the housing. A heat dissipation member can be attached to the housing. An optical system can be disposed within the lighting chamber. The optical system can include a heat conduction member including an LED attached surface and a support member fixed to the LED attached surface at one end thereof and to the housing or the heat dissipation member at the other end thereof. An LED light source can be attached to the LED attached surface, and a reflector can be provided for receiving and reflecting light emitted from the LED light source towards the cover lens so that the reflected light passing through the cover lens forms a predetermined light distribution pattern.
US08439535B2	Structure of motorcycle taillight A motorcycle taillight includes a base, a light source unit, and a hood. The base includes a first bulb seat, which receives a primary light source of a light source unit mounted therein. An extension section extends from an underside of the first bulb seat in a direction toward the rear side of the motorcycle. The extension section has an underside to which a second bulb seat is mounted. The second bulb seat is located at a free end of the extension section to receive a license plate light of the light source unit mounted therein. The hood has a shielding section corresponding in position to the second bulb seat of the base. A cover is arranged under the shielding section. As such, the white light that is used to illuminate a license plate cannot be seen from the rear side of the motorcycle.
US08439525B2	Luminaires having enhanced light distribution and applications thereof The present invention, in some embodiments, provides a luminaire operable to enhance the uniformity of light distributed from the luminaire thereby mitigating diminished illuminance at the periphery of an illuminated area.
US08439523B2	Laser energy source device A laser device including a concave mirror converging beamlets from a plurality of high efficiency diode lasers to a focal point, an integrating convex mirror placed at or near the focal point reflects a first portion of the beamlets back to the concave mirror and allows a second portion through to a light transmitter. The second portion of beamlets exists the light transmitter as a homogenized uniform laser beam having substantially uniform convergence and focus.
US08439522B2	Angle-adjusting LED lighting apparatus An angle-adjusting LED lighting apparatus includes an LED light source on which LEDs and a printed circuit board electrically connected to the LEDs are mounted. A lens diffuses light illuminated from the LEDs, and a case houses the LED light source and the lens. At least one portion of an outer surface of the case is circular-shaped, an uneven part is formed at the circular-shaped outer surface of the case, and an engaging groove is formed inside the uneven part and penetrates the case along a length of the case. The apparatus includes an angle-adjustment member having an uneven surface that engages with the uneven part on one surface, and an engagement fixing member that engages with an outer fixing member on which the lighting apparatus is to be mounted using an engaging member. The engaging member penetrates the angle-adjustment member and is inserted into the engaging groove.
US08439518B2	Display backlight device with auxiliary light emitting element An illuminating device includes a hot-cathode fluorescent tube (discharge tube) and a light emitting surface that emits light from the hot-cathode fluorescent tube. An auxiliary light emitting portion is provided in the vicinity of a non-lighting region of the hot-cathode fluorescent tube. The auxiliary light emitting portion includes an optical fiber having an incident portion for receiving light from the hot-cathode fluorescent tube, and a light guide plate that receives light from the optical fiber and emits the incident light toward the light emitting surface.
US08439517B2	Fixture installation apparatus and method A light system for adapting the perimeter around an open space for accepting a light fixture comprising a first member for engagement with a portion of the perimeter around the space, a second member for engagement with a portion of the perimeter around the space such that the second member is located symmetrically opposite the first member with respect to the perimeter around the space, engaging the first member and the second member to the perimeter, a pivot for removably engaging the fixture to the first and second members such that the fixture pivots from a first position where the fixture fills the open space to a second position where the fixture is hanging from the perimeter, and a latch for securing the fixture in the first position. Also, a method of installing a fixture into an aperture in a ceiling, wall or box where the aperture is defined by a perimeter, the method comprises the steps of engaging an install apparatus with the perimeter of the aperture, engaging a fixture in a hanging relationship with the install apparatus, rotating the hanging fixture until the fixture is engaged with the perimeter of the aperture, securing the fixture in a operational relationship with the perimeter of the aperture.
US08439514B2	Lighting unit, display device and television receiver A lighting unit 12 of the present invention includes a light source 17, a chassis that covers the light source 17 and a vibration absorber 70 provided in a mat-like form and arranged between the light source 17 and the chassis 14. The vibration absorber 70 is made of gelatinous material. With this configuration, the vibration absorber 70 blocks vibration propagation from the light source 17 to the chassis 14. As a result, a roaring sound is properly eliminated or reduced.
US08439512B2	Semiconductor lamp with wavelength converter and circuit component axially opposed from light source A lamp includes a semiconductor light-emitting element, a light guiding element, a wavelength converter, a reflecting mirror, and a circuit unit axially disposed within a central section of the outer tube of an envelope. Light emitted by the semiconductor light-emitting element is guided by the light guiding element to be incident on and be converted by the wavelength converter. At least one component of the circuit unit is disposed at a side of the wavelength converter opposite the semiconductor light-emitting element. The reflecting mirror is disposed between the at least one component of the circuit unit and the wavelength converter, and reflects at least part of light received from the wavelength converter back toward the wavelength converter.
US08439510B2	Apparatus for viewing oblique forward area of vehicle An apparatus for viewing an oblique forward area of a vehicle whereby light incident from outside a passenger compartment is prevented from reflecting. The apparatus includes a sub-window pane supported by a front pillar and a sub-pillar, a mirror housing of a door mirror for displaying a rear of the vehicle, and a first reflective mirror for displaying an area in front and to one side of the vehicle. The first reflective mirror is provided to the mirror housing. The apparatus also includes a second reflective mirror for reflecting the light reflected by the first reflective mirror toward a driver. The sub-window pane is disposed further toward the outside in a vehicle widthwise direction than a line passing over cross-sectional vehicle-widthwise direction centers of the front pillar and the sub-pillar. An outside edge of the second reflective mirror is positioned in the vicinity of the sub-window pane.
US08439509B2	Ribbed telescope mirrors with thermal gradient control Ribbed mirrors allowing heat to be conducted past the glass during optical polish and application of coatings and methods of fabricating same. The method comprises placing a bridge of thermally conductive material in thermal contact with the mirror plate and the supporting rib at the interior angle. The preferred thermally conductive material is room temperature vulcanizing silicone. However, the room temperature vulcanizing silicone can be mixed with a powdered heat conductor such as diamond dust, aluminum oxide and silicon carbide. Alternatively, the thermally conductive fillet can be made from a segment of thermally conductive rigid material, such as copper, diamond, beryllium, silver and aluminum having an exterior angle matching the interior angle and a thermally conductive plastic such as room temperature vulcanizing silicone or thermally conductive grease, silicone or epoxy applied to surfaces of the exterior angle.
US08439507B2	Projector with on screen display adjustment and control method thereof A projector includes: an OSD processing section that generates a synthesized image formed by synthesizing an OSD image on a main image; an image projecting section that projects and displays the synthesized image; a zoom adjusting section that adjusts a zoom state of the image projecting section; and a zoom state detecting section that detects the zoom state that is adjusted by the zoom adjusting section, wherein the OSD processing section adjusts a size of the OSD image with respect to the main image based on the detection result of the zoom state detecting section.
US08439502B2	Algorithms and methods for determining aberration-induced vision symptoms in the eye from wave aberration Aberration-induced vision symptoms are determined by obtaining at least one wave aberration of an eye, calculating at least one point-spread function from the wave aberration, convolving the point-spread function of eye with at least one specially designed image for night vision diagnosis, and determining at least one aberration-induced vision symptom of the tested eye from the convolved images. The specially designed images are for vision diagnosis of aberration-induced glare, halo, ghost image, and starburst. The invention methods for specifying aberration-induced symptoms allow to find an optimized refractive corrections of defocus and astigmatism and to reduce vision symptoms caused by aberrations in the eye.
US08439501B2	Diagnosis of optically identifiable ophthalmic conditions An apparatus for performing multiple procedures involving the eye. The apparatus includes an imager for imaging at least a portion of an eye of a patient, a data collection apparatus for collecting a data set corresponding to at least a portion of an eye of a patient, and a data analysis module. The imager is configured to provide image data. The data collection apparatus is configured to provide data indicative of a neurological disorder. The data analysis module interrelates the image data and the data indicative of a neurological disorder to provide an interpretive result.
US08439497B2	Image processing apparatus with nested printer and scanner An image processing apparatus has a compact arrangement of an inkjet printer; and a flat bed scanner unit. The scanner has a scanner head, a glass panel for receiving media to be scanned and a lid having an inner surface for flat engagement with the glass panel. The lid also has an outer surface presenting a flat surface for receiving media printed by the printer and awaiting collection.
US08439493B2	Wide format printer with printheads supplied by multiple ink conduits connected by a bypass line A wide format printer that has an ink supply, a feed line coupled to the ink supply, a return line coupled to the ink supply, a plurality of printheads collectively spanning a paper path more than 432 mm (17 inches) wide, each of the printheads being fluidically coupled to the first and second conduits and, a bypass line coupling the feed line to the return line.
US08439487B2	Continuous ink jet printing of encapsulated droplets A method for creating composite droplets for use in an ink jet system includes a first fluid (1) brought into contact with a second fluid within a set of channels (5,14). The interface between the fluids is characterized by an interfacial tension. The first fluid forms spaced droplets (8) within the second fluid, the composite of the first and second fluids passing through an orifice (6) to form a jet (9).
US08439484B2	Pneumatic dispenser A pneumatic dispenser (1) according to the present invention includes: a first plate (10) including a liquid supply unit (11), a first chamber (C1) connected to the liquid supply unit (11), and a liquid discharge unit (12) connected to the first chamber (C1), a flexible membrane (20) at least installed on the first chamber (C1) of the first plate (10) and establishing one side of the first chamber (C1), a second plate (30) including a second chamber (C2) at a side opposite to the first chamber (C1) while facing the first plate (10) with the flexible membrane (20) interposed there between and a bump (40) formed by protruding the liquid supply unit (11) toward the flexible membrane (20).
US08439473B2	Image recording apparatus An ink-jet printer includes an ink jet head which jets liquid droplets of an ink onto a recording medium; a scanning mechanism which reciprocates the ink-jet head in a forward scan direction and a backward scan direction; a transport mechanism which transports the recording medium in a transport direction intersecting with the forward and backward scan directions; and a jetting controller which controls the ink-jet head. The jetting controller has a reference jetting amount setting section which sets a reference jetting amount based on an input image data for each of a plurality of scans of the ink-jet head, and a jetting amount adjusting section which makes a jetting amount be smaller than the reference jetting amount with respect to an overlapping area at which liquid droplet jetting areas of the forward scan and the backward scan partially overlap each other.
US08439471B2	Ink jet recording apparatus, and method for controlling recording head temperature An ink jet recording apparatus for effecting recording using a recording head for ejecting ink, the ink jet recording apparatus including a heating section for heating the recording head, a detecting unit for detecting a temperature of the recording head, a setting unit for setting a target temperature of the recording head, and a controller for controlling the target temperature of the recording head at or above the target temperature. The controller controls the temperature by heating control for heating the recording head and by diffusing control for diffusing the heat supplied by the heating control.
US08439469B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting apparatus, including: a feeding mechanism which feeds a recording medium; a first ejection head including a first ejection opening for ejecting first liquid and a first energy generating portion which generates an energy for ejecting the first liquid; an image-data storage section storing image data for ejecting the first liquid onto dot areas on the recording medium; an image-recording controlling section which controls the first energy generating portion based on the image data; a flushing-data producing section which produces flushing data for flushing; and a flushing controlling section which controls the first energy generating portion such that a flushing dot is formed on the recording medium, wherein the flushing-data producing section produces the flushing data such that the flushing dot is landed on one of the dot areas which is distant, by a specific area, from an edge dot area corresponding to an edge of the image.
US08439468B2	Inkjet print apparatus and inkjet print method In a print apparatus for performing a print by a scan of a print head with heaters generating thermal energy for ejecting ink, a temperature of the print head is detected before the scan of the print head, and when the detected temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, the print head is controlled to wait. Information relating to the cumulative number of drives of the heater in the print head is acquired and, based upon this information, the threshold temperature is changed to a lower temperature as the cumulative number of the drives increases. An excessive temperature rise of the head is restricted and also a throughput reduction is reduced as much as possible.
US08439465B2	Printing method, computer-readable medium, and printing apparatus A printing method etc. capable of suppressing degradation in image quality of border sections between regions respectively printed by a plurality of nozzle rows that eject ink droplets is achieved. The printing method includes a step of setting, when at least two print heads that move in a movement direction intersecting a carrying direction and that include a plurality of nozzle rows each including a plurality of nozzles arranged in the carrying direction are moved in the movement direction, one ejecting method, of among a plurality of ejecting methods in which the nozzles for actually ejecting ink droplets are appropriately changed between an upstream-side nozzle and a downstream-side nozzle, for each of a plurality of aligned nozzle sections that are arranged such that the downstream-side nozzle of one print head and the upstream-side nozzle of the other print head, of the nozzle rows provided in different print heads, are aligned in the movement direction; and a step of ejecting ink droplets from the aligned nozzle sections according to the one ejecting method that has been set.
US08439458B2	Housing for at least partially accommodating a furniture fitting A housing for at least partially accommodating a furniture fitting is designed such that it can be changed in length along a longitudinal axis of the housing.
US08439457B2	Adjustable dressing mirror assembly An adjustable dressing mirror assembly includes a support, a mirror-mounting unit, and a positioning device. The positioning device includes a guiding seat connected pivotally to the support, a driving plate connected pivotally to the mirror-mounting unit, a sliding block, a movable member, a positioning rod, and a resilient member. The guiding seat includes an accommodating chamber and a plurality of positioning grooves. The driving plate and the sliding block are movable in the accommodating chamber. The positioning rod is disposed fixedly on the movable member. Engagement between the positioning rod and the positioning grooves is allowed with assistance of the resilient member during movement of the driving plate within the accommodating chamber from a rear limit position to a front limit position, and is prevented during movement of the driving plate within the accommodating chamber from the front limit position to the rear limit position.
US08439452B2	Paint brush with reinforced ferrule construction A method for making a paint brush includes coupling a plurality of filaments to a handle inside a sleeve with the handle extending out of the sleeve. At least a portion of the handle and the sleeve are coated with a substantially impermeable coating to form a seal around an interface between the sleeve and the handle without covering the plurality of filaments.
US08439449B1	EZ dump lawn vacuum 1. My EZ DUMP lawn vacuum container has a capacity of over 48 bushels or 60 cubic feet of debris which can be backed up to a dump site, blower engine turned off, debris dumped by means of my EZ DUMP interior dump bed system, container closed and blower engine started all within under 3 minutes without leaving the seat of the lawnmower and without pulling any levers or ropes or any other manual means. Since the dump bed is a contained within the container there is no need to remove the flexible blower hose which is connected to the front of the container. The dumping of debris is accomplished with only four moving parts powered by an inexpensive 12 volt lift device. These features make my EZ DUMP lawn vacuum low maintenance and a pleasure to use, even for a 79 year old like me.
US08439448B2	Buckle for center occupant for bench seat with extended travel A 60/40 bench seat is provided allowing for increased sliding travel along a set of tracks to allow for easier ingress and egress of a vehicle passenger accessing the rear of a bench seat. The 60/40 bench seat assembly allows for increased travel along the tracks without adding significant increases in assembly parts, cost, or weight. The 60/40 bench seat assembly is provided including a profile member and a buckle. The 60/40 bench seat assembly is divided into a 40% section seat and a 60% section seat. The 60/40 seat assembly further includes a profile member operable to push down the buckle to allow for increased travel of the 60% seat. The buckle includes a first surface and the profile includes a second surface contacting the buckle first surface thereby pushing the buckle towards a vehicle floor.
US08439447B2	Convertible swing seat A convertible child seat includes a seat frame that presents a seat cavity and an open front to allow cavity ingress and egress by the child. The seat also includes a front restraint shiftably attached to the seat frame and shiftable between a storage position and a child-restraining position. In the storage position, the front restraint extends along the bottom wall so as to be positioned below the seated child and thereby permit cavity ingress and egress through the open front. In the child-restraining position, the front restraint at least partly spans the open front to restrict cavity ingress and egress through the open front.
US08439445B2	Vehicle seat backs In the field of vehicle seats there is a need for an improved vehicle seat back tilt adjustment assembly that allows a user selectively to make small or large adjustments to the inclination of a vehicle seat back. A vehicle seat back tilt adjustment assembly comprises a guide member securable to a vehicle body; and an intermediate mechanism moveably coupled to the guide member. The intermediate mechanism includes first and second locking elements. The first locking element is moveable between a first configuration in which it is engagable with a vehicle seat back to secure the seat back to the intermediate mechanism and a second configuration in which the seat back is disengagable therefrom to allow the seat back to move independently of the intermediate mechanism. The second locking element selectively engages the guide member to secure the position of the intermediate mechanism relative to the guide member.
US08439443B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat includes an operating member that is provided for a seat back. The operating member is operated to release locking of a seat cushion to a floor and to release rotation-sopped state of a reclining device. By operating the operating member, a first link rotatably provided for the seat back is operated in one rotation direction to thereby turn a second link rotatably provided for a base frame so that locking of the seat cushion to the floor is released. When the seat back is tilted forward, the first link is moved together with the seat back in a direction to be separated from the second link, that is, in a direction opposite to a direction in which the first link turns the second link.
US08439442B2	Method and apparatus to enhance proprioception and core health of the human body The present disclosure provides a lockout mechanism for use with a dynamic therapeutic assembly having a pivot bar pivotally coupled to an upper pivot plate such that the upper pivot plate is moveable with respect to the pivot bar about a first pivot axis and pivotally coupled to a lower pivot plate such that the pivot bar is moveable with respect to the lower pivot plate about a second pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the first pivot axis. The lockout mechanism includes a pushrod assembly that is moveable between a first position, wherein a portion of the pushrod assembly is engageable with the pivot bar to prevent substantial movement of the pivot bar about the second pivot axis, and a second position, wherein the portion of the pushrod assembly is disengaged from the pivot bar to allow movement of the pivot bar about the second pivot axis.
US08439438B2	Push-push cup holder A cupholder has a substantially tubular shell configured to be mounted with a longitudinal axis oriented substantially vertically. A floor received in the shell is vertically movable along the longitudinal axis for defining a variable depth cup well. A ring coaxially atop the shell has a plurality of vertical guide extensions disposed around a periphery of the shell. The ring is vertically movable. A linkage is provided between the floor and the guide extensions providing reciprocal motion of the floor and the ring wherein pushing down the floor raises the ring and wherein pushing down the ring raises the floor.
US08439433B2	Single motor structure for operation of panorama sunroof glass and roll blind at the same time A single motor structure for operation of a panorama sunroof glass and a roll blind may include a motor supplying a motive power to the panorama sunroof glass and the roll blind, a rotating shaft rotatably connected to a side of the motor, a first actuating gear and a second actuating gear, which may be spaced symmetrically from the rotating shaft with a predetermined distance, a first actuating member combined with the first actuating gear so as to rotate with the first actuating gear to control open-shut of the panorama sunroof glass, a second actuating member combined with the second actuating gear so as to rotate with the second actuating gear so as to control open-shut of the roll blind, and a first actuating relay member and a second actuating relay member, which may be combined with each of the first actuating member and the second actuating member respectively.
US08439432B2	Roof structure for a vehicle with no center pillar A vehicle roof system enabling elimination of the B-pillar is disclosed. A particular aspect of the invention is to transfer vertical roof loads onto an enhanced rear structure of the vehicle. An additional aspect of the invention is to employ a rear upper cap reinforcement to directly assume roof crush loads applied at front of the vehicle during testing. A specific load transfer mechanism is disclosed. Vertical roof crush force applied near the front of the vehicle is transferred into both a torsional load upon a rear header of the vehicle, and a bending moment upon the C-pillar of the vehicle.
US08439424B1	Bracket assembly for modular bows in a tarp system and methods of assembling the same A bracket assembly for securing tarps to a modular bow in a tarp system includes a curved base member that is adapted to be secured to a frame member having adjacent dual channels that extend along an outer surface thereof. A tarp guide is supported on the curved base member. The tarp guide has adjacent dual channels that are separated by a partition. The adjacent dual channels of the tarp guide are adapted to be aligned with the adjacent dual channels of the frame member when the curved base member is secured to the frame member.
US08439423B2	Tonneau cover assemblies Elongated side rails for attachment to a sidewall of a truck cargo box as a portion of a tonneau cover assembly. Each assembly includes a flexible cover that can be operatively secured to side rails. One side rail includes a securing portion that can be operatively connected to the sidewall; an inclined portion extending from the securing portion, the inclined portion having first and second sides; a connecting member extending downwardly away from the inclined portion from a position located between the first and second sides; and a longitudinal portion extending from the connecting member opposite the inclined portion. To secure the cover to the side rails, hook fastener is preferably attached to loop fastener on the cover. One preferred side rail has a ridge to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners. Another preferred side rail has directional hook fastener to prevent premature engagement of the fasteners.
US08439422B2	Tarp with multiple attachment points What is provided is a new and innovative multiple attachment point tarpaulin and method that enables the tarpaulin to be flexibly connected at multiple attachment points, and more securely fastening of the tarpaulin. The present invention achieves the above advantages and benefits by having multiple attachment points at strategic locations.
US08439421B2	Fuel lid A vehicle fuel lid apparatus may include a lid and a linkage assembly that pivotally attaches the lid to the vehicle. The lid may be movable about the pivotal attachments between closed and open conditions.
US08439419B2	Flipper panel assembly A flipper panel assembly for covering a gap between a seat assembly and a cargo load floor. The seat assembly is movable forward and rearward and includes a pivotal seat back. The flipper panel assembly includes a main panel slidably disposed on the cargo load floor and fixedly secured to the seat assembly. A flipper panel is pivotally coupled to the main panel. The flipper panel assembly translates along the cargo load floor in response to moving the seat assembly forward and rearward. The flipper panel pivots in response to pivotal movement of the seat back.
US08439417B2	Multi functional device for a center stack A multi-functional device for a center stack of a vehicle and a center stack include, but are not limited to a storage room and a control panel, which is movable in an opened position and in a closed position. In the closed position the storage room is covered by the control panel. The storage room provides a connection element for multimedia devices and the multimedia devices are detachable from the connection element.
US08439413B2	Gripping device for automatic bottle-topping machines A gripping device for automatic bottle-topping machines comprising an anti-rotation blocking element, mobile between an opening position and a gripping position, a first mechanism, provided for actuation of the anti-rotation blocking element, a first actuation element, operatively connected to the first mechanism a gripping element, mobile between an opening position and a gripping position, a second mechanism, provided for actuation of the gripping element, and a second actuation element, operatively connected to the second mechanism, wherein the anti-rotation blocking element and the gripping element are provided for engaging on a bottle.
US08439411B2	Bumper beam with integrated energy absorber The present invention is directed to an energy absorbing component externally mounted to a vehicle having a beam structural member and at least one energy absorber operably connected to the beam structural member. The energy absorber absorbs energy when the vehicle undergoes a collision. Also included is a beam cover plate connected to the beam structural member through the use of resistive implant welding, which simplifies the manufacturing process, and improves manufacturing costs. There are two vehicle attachment plates which are overmolded to the beam cover plate, the vehicle attachment plates allow for the beam cover plate to be attached to a vehicle. The beam cover plate, beam structural member, and energy absorber form a component that is operable to function as a bumper that is connected to a vehicle, which absorbs energy during a collision.
US08439410B2	Prehung door jamb insert with security and adjustment features A prehung door jamb assembly is provided that includes a strike plate mounting assembly configured to fasten to a door jamb. The strike plate mounting assembly includes a longitudinal extending support plate, a longitudinal extending second plate, first and second strike plate supports, a spacer, at least one adjustment fastener, and at least one fastener.
US08439409B2	Door unit A door panel of a side door of a machine has a latching mechanism, and a frame of the machine includes a striker. The striker includes a pair of vertically arranged mounting base portions, a pair of slanted shimmy-stopping surface portions formed on the mounting base portions so as to protrude in a V-like shape towards the latching mechanism, and a metal hooking portion protruding from a flat end portion that is provided between the slanted shimmy-stopping surface portions. The latching mechanism includes a mechanism body portion including main body plates. A U-shaped latch groove portion for engaging the metal hooking portion of the striker is formed by cutting away a part of each main body plate, and shimmy suppressing portions that are vertically arranged in a V-like shape are provided at the open end of each latch groove portion.
US08439408B2	Pipe clamp A pipe repair clamp includes a flexible strap having ends that are brought together when the clamp is closed. A thrust plate is secured near the first end of the flexible strap. A lug is secured to the thrust plate. A lug plate is secured near the second end of the strap. A threaded stud is secured to the lug plate and is used to tighten the clamp. A lug cover plate is secured to the lug and the thrust plate and receives the threaded stud. The lug cover plate includes a curved end portion covering at least a portion of the lug. A locking plate receives the threaded stud. The locking plate slides along a top surface of the lug and over the lug cover plate when the first and second ends of the strap are pulled toward each other when the clamp is tightened around a pipe.
US08439406B2	Shoulder ring with axial retention A shoulder ring, for installation in a threaded pipe coupling between the installed pin ends of two pipes being connected by the coupling, has opposing end faces and a central opening, and may be lobate or circular in shape. The shoulder ring provides enhanced axial retention within the coupling by incorporating a thread element which engages the internal threads of the coupling to prevent or deter displacement of the ring from the coupling. Alternatively, enhanced axial retention may be provided by means of an interference or interlocking fit that is plastically induced during the ring installation process. The shoulder ring may be of lobate or circular configuration, with the axial retention of lobate embodiments being further enhanced by forces acting radially outward against the coupling due to elastic deformation of the ring during installation. Also disclosed are tools for installing the shoulder rings in a threaded coupling.
US08439405B2	Crimped or swaged couplings for cable reinforced hoses A hose coupling for fitment to an end of a cable reinforced hose includes a unitary stem having a cable trap groove portion having an outside diameter greater than an inside diameter of a tube of the hose and less than an inside diameter of the hose with the tube skived from the hose. A unitary ferrule defines at least one cable trap rib corresponding to the cable trap groove and having an inside diameter less than the outside diameter of the cable reinforced hose and greater than an outside diameter of the hose with material covering the cable skived from the hose. The groove width is at least the width of the rib plus twice the diameter of cable reinforcing the hose. Epoxy may be disposed between the hose tube and the stem for sealing or injected between the ferrule and the stem permeating the cable.
US08439403B2	Printed article with special effect coating A printed article is disclosed having a light transmissive substrate having a reverse printed region on a surface thereof in the form of a plurality of very closely spaced printed lines or regions. The printed regions and spaces therebetween are subsequently flood coated with special effect ink such as optically variable ink wherein the ink particle size is on average greater than the gap between reverse printed regions. The image is viewed from the non-printed side of the substrate and very fine lines of the special effect flood coated special effect ink appear as very clear sharp lines having a fine resolution. This eliminates the typical jagged edges that would otherwise be seen if the inked region was not present. This effect is due to the first printed inked regions or lines forming a mask through which the flood coated ink is seen.
US08439400B2	Impact absorber An impact absorber is provided in a trim of a vehicle for protecting a waist portion of a passenger. The impact absorber includes: a first portion corresponding to the pubis of the passenger; and a second portion corresponding to the ilium of the passenger. Stress generated in the first portion when the passenger hits the trim has a first predetermined value or less, and stress generated in the second portion when the passenger hits on the trim has a second predetermined value or more, the second predetermined value being greater than the first predetermined value.
US08439398B2	Inflator connectors for inflatable personal restraints and associated systems and methods Inflator connectors for inflatable personal restraints and associated systems and methods are described herein. An inflator connector configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology, for example, can include a body having an attachment portion and a sleeve portion and a coupling rotatably received in the sleeve portion. The attachment portion of the body can include a first bore having a first engagement feature positioned toward a first opening for operably engaging at least one of an inflator and a gas tube. The sleeve portion can include a second bore in fluid communication with the first bore. The coupling can include a second engagement feature positioned toward a second opening for operably engaging the other of the inflator and the gas tube.
US08439393B2	Attachment device An attachment device is provided for securing a cladding element covering an airbag to a motor vehicle body. The airbag is designed to deploy during and/or after activation of the airbag, predominantly in a main direction of force exertion, encompassing a mount that is attachable or attached to the motor vehicle body in an assembly direction, and an insert that is attachable or attached to the cladding element. The insert is connectable or connected with the mount by means of a first connection device and the attachment device is designed to open in an opening direction during and/or after activation of the airbag by releasing the first connection device. The opening direction coincides with and/or mirrors the main direction of force exertion.
US08439391B1	Baby jogger A baby jogger includes an upper frame unit, two coupling members, two stop members, two rear frame bars, a rear wheel axle, a plurality of rear wheels, two linking devices, two side bars, a lower frame unit, a mud fender, a front wheel frame and a front wheel. The front wall of each coupling member is connected between the two sidewalls thereof; the rotary members at the two distal ends of the lower frame unit are respectively accommodated in the accommodation space in the two coupling members; the two distal ends of the U-shaped handlebar of the upper frame unit are respectively accommodated in the locating hole in each of the two coupling members. This arrangement avoids accidental finger jam when collapsing the upper frame unit and the lower frame unit, assuring a high level of safety.
US08439390B2	Three-wheeled collapsible golf cart A three-wheeled golf cart having collapsible mechanism to fold the cart down for storage and transport where the three wheels are placed evenly around the compact volume of the collapsed unit and a button-control unit allows for the front wheel to turn 180 degrees so that the front wheel will be turned and rotated to an offset position away from the center line of the main tube frame, resulting in a small and compact size storage and transport.
US08439386B1	Name plate motorcycle exhaust guard A name plate motorcycle exhaust guard that includes a name plate having a plurality of letters wrought three-dimensionally thereupon, a pair of fasteners disposed perpendicularly from an inward surface, wherein the name plate is removably attachable to a mounting bracket, said mounting bracket configured to be removably attachable to a highway peg mount of a motorcycle, whereby the name plate motorcycle exhaust guard extends rearwards in a vertical plane to shield a rider from contact with the exhaust pipe when the motorcycle is in use.
US08439375B2	Portable cleaner with axle mount A new dolly can be used for making either a vacuum cleaner supported by casters or one supported by wheels. Casters can be mounted in sockets in bosses near the dolly perimeter. Alternatively, axle mounts can be fitted over the bosses. Upright walls on the mounts engage corresponding walls on the underside of the dolly, forming spaced supports. An accessory component with molded upright walls is mounted onto the dolly, and its walls engage corresponding walls under the dolly. One fastener seats against one fastener surface on the accessory component, and extends into a hole in that fastener surface, an aligned opening in the corresponding axle mount, and into the dolly.
US08439374B1	Lightweight high load capacity folding utility cart with unique support structure and ergonomic handle A lightweight cart which weighs less than three pounds but has a structural design which enables the cart to retain and transport objects which weigh over one hundred and ten pounds. The cart can fold down to two inches for storage, a flat thickness which is at least one inch less thick than conventional foldup carts.
US08439373B2	Systems and methods for raising a section of a vehicle off the ground without a jack Described herein is a hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle, including a plurality of hydraulic suspension units having a section of the vehicle corresponding thereto, and a hydraulic power device in communication with the plurality of hydraulic suspension units for providing a hydraulic fluid under pressure to actuate the plurality of hydraulic suspension units. The hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle further includes a plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units, wherein the plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies are in fluid communication between the plurality of hydraulic suspension units and the hydraulic power device, and a control device for controlling each of the hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units.
US08439372B2	Hydraulic protection of a rolling stabilization system A device for the protection of a rolling stabilization system for motor vehicles, having at least two stabilization devices includes at least one first hydraulically triggerable safety valve for locking at least the first stabilization device.
US08439370B2	Stair-climbing device A stair-climbing device including a support unit, a climbing unit driven by a motor and a control unit for controlling operation of the climbing unit, wherein a detection unit is provided for detecting the current position of the support unit with respect to one or several steps of a stair which includes at least one non-contact sensor, wherein the detection unit provides signals to the control unit, which signals contain information about the current position of the support unit with respect to one or several steps of the stair, and wherein the control unit is adapted to control operation of the climbing unit depending on signals of the detection unit.
US08439363B2	Dynamic radial shaft seal assembly with combination dust exclusion thrust pad A dynamic radial shaft seal assembly includes an inner wear sleeve having a cylindrical inner wall with a bore sized for receipt about a shaft and an outer running surface. The inner wear sleeve has a flange extending radially outwardly from the running surface. The assembly further includes an outer case having cylindrical outer wall configured for receipt in a housing and a rim extending radially inwardly from the outer wall. An elastomeric body is attached to the rim. The elastomeric body includes a main seal lip configured to engage the outer running surface of the inner wear sleeve and a plurality of thrust pads extending axially from the rim for engagement with the flange. The thrust pads are spaced circumferentially from one another by gaps. The elastomeric body further includes a first dust exclusion lip extending axially from the leg and bridging the gaps.
US08439362B1	Method and system for playing a casino game A casino game method and system is set forth for house banked games such as Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai Gow and the like where each participating player makes a first wager to participate in the house banked game and a second wager to form a player competition pot. The first wagers are resolved according to the rules of the game. The second wagers are combined into a pot which is awarded to the player having the highest or lowest hand ranking. In the event of a tie the pot may be shared or carried over to subsequent hands until there is a single winner. The system provides for a host processor communicating with player terminals from which the players can control the game action. To provide a profit to the casino, at least a portion of the pot is awarded if the house hand has a certain holding.
US08439360B2	Roulette game device It is possible to arrange a plurality of wheel pins 281 on an inclined face 28 formed so as to follow an outer circumferential direction of a plurality of pockets 23 formed in a roulette device 2. These wheel pins 281 include threaded holes 282 and insertion pins 283, and match positions of through holes 284 formed in the inclined face 28 and the threaded holes 282, and are fastened with screws 286 inserted from a back surface side of the inclined face 28 to be detachable. In addition, concave portions 285 formed according to a distance between the threaded holes 282 and the insertion pins 283 in the wheel pins 281 are formed in the inclined face 28, and the insertion pins 283 are inserted and cause a direction of the wheel pins 281 to be fixed.
US08439359B2	Shuffleboard playfield assembly The present invention is directed to a two-piece shuffleboard playfield having two rectangular planar members forming the overall playfield, two bracket members and adjustment members. The two elongated planar playfield members are attached to each other with the bracket members. Each bracket member is mounted to the lower surface of one of the elongated planar members at the point of joinder of the two elongated playfield members. When the playfield members are placed in abutting relationship to each other, the bracket members are likewise placed adjacent to each other for securely attaching the same to each other with a plurality of fastener members. An adjustment bolt is position at each respective end portion of each bracket member for leveling the top surface of the elongated planar members at their point of joinder. Each end portion of one rectangular planar member adjacent the point of joinder or joint edge can be moved up and down with respect to the other end portions of the rectangular planar members by adjusting the adjustment members. The adjustment bolts are used to raise one corner of each of the elongated playfield members independently of each other at the point of joinder.
US08439358B2	Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet conveying apparatus, including: a first conveying portion; a second conveying portion arranged downstream of the first conveying portion; a shutter member rotated by the pressure of the sheet and including a plurality of abutment surfaces against which a leading edge of the sheet conveyed by the first conveying portion abuts to correct a skew feed of the sheet; and an urging portion which provides the shutter member with an urging force for positioning one abutment surface at an abutment position at which the leading edge of the sheet abuts against the one abutment surface, the urging portion providing the shutter member with an urging force for rotating the shutter member to position another abutment surface at the abutment position after the leading edge of the sheet is nipped by the second conveying portion.
US08439355B2	Sheet feeder having movable supporter for supporting sheets stacked on a sheet tray and image recorder having the same A sheet feeder includes a sheet tray configured to support one or more sheets stacked thereon in a slanted state, a feed roller disposed to face a lower end of a top one of the sheets stacked on the sheet tray, the feed roller being configured to feed the sheets, a supporter disposed under the sheet tray movably relative to the feed roller, the supporter being configured to support, on an upper surface thereof, lower ends of the sheets stacked on the sheet tray, and a displacement mechanism configured to displace the supporter farther from the feed roller depending on a pressure which the feed roller applies to the sheets when rotating.
US08439354B1	Self cleaning nudger roll in a sheet media pick system A fixed cleaning pad is configured and positioned such that that a media feed nudger roll will rub against it periodically to clean it of debris to improve mis-feeding performance.
US08439351B1	Measuring amount of media during stack compression A method of determining an amount of media in a stack of media that is disposed within a media holding receptacle of an imaging system, the method includes providing a stack-compressing element configured to contact a first piece of media in the stack of media; providing a sensor to detect a position of the first piece of media; applying a first compressive force to the stack of media via the stack-compressing element in contact with the first piece of media; applying a second compressive force to the stack of media via the stack-compressing element in contact with the first piece of media, the second compressive force being greater than the first compressive force; and using the sensor to detect the position of the first piece of media after the second compressive force is applied to the stack of media.
US08439349B2	Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet feeding apparatus and an image forming apparatus are provided. Timing when a subsequent sheet is adsorbed by an adsorbing and conveying mechanism of a sheet feeding device which adsorbs and conveys sheets blown up by air blowing is controlled, and the subsequent sheet is conveyed while being overlapped partially at an overlapping amount with a preceding sheet Sa adsorbed by the adsorbing and conveying mechanism earlier regardless of the size, basis weight, and kind of sheets.
US08439345B2	Image forming device An image forming device including a pickup roller and a scraper roller configured to send out a print sheet to a feed route, a before-registration roller configured to send out a print sheet to a registration roller, and a control unit configured to independently control the transfer speed of the print sheet at each point based on operation patterns relating to the pickup roller and the scraper roller, and an intermediate transfer roller configured to transfer the print sheet between the before-registration roller and itself, wherein the operation pattern is set based on a relationship between a distance from the intermediate transfer roller to the before-registration roller or a distance from the intermediate transfer roller to the registration roller and a length of the print sheet.
US08439340B2	Sheet processing apparatus and image forming system A finisher includes an intermediate tray that collects sheets to form a sheet bundle, a sheet gripping member that grips one end of the sheet bundle in a conveying direction and a positioning member that grips the other end of the sheet bundle in a conveying direction, a moving portion that moves the sheet gripping member and the positioning member to come close to each other, a pair of folding rollers that folds the sheet bundle while conveying the sheet bundle, a projecting member that projects a part between the one end and the other end of the gripped sheet bundle toward the pair of folding rollers, and a controller that controls the moving portion, such that the sheet gripping member and the positioning member come close to each other in synchronization with an operation of projecting the projecting member toward the sheet bundle.
US08439338B2	Rotary table device provided with cooling structure and rotary bearing provided with cooling structure A rotary table device includes a cooling structure and a rotary bearing provided with a cooling structure. A rotary table device provided with a cooling structure includes a hollow motor as a drive source, a table rotated by the hollow motor, and a rotary bearing supporting rotational motion of the table, in which the rotary bearing includes an outer ring having an inner peripheral surface to which a rolling surface is formed, an inner ring having an outer peripheral surface to which a rolling surface facing the rolling surface of the outer ring is formed, and a number of rolling members in a rolling passage formed by the rolling surface of the outer ring and the rolling surface of the inner ring, and a heat sink is formed to either one of the inner and outer rings.
US08439337B2	Wing positioning and mounting system A positioning system is provided for mounting a wing of an aircraft to a fuselage of the aircraft. The positioning system includes, but is not limited to a programmable mounting unit that can perform a final adjustment and alignment of the wing with respect to the fuselage without user interaction.
US08439334B2	Spring-mounted vibration system to reduce vibration Spring-mounted vibration system to reduce vibration with a first spring-mounted part and a second spring-mounted part, wherein the first spring-mounted part and the second spring-mounted part can oscillate relative to each in at least one vibration direction and at least one of the spring-mounted parts can be exposed to a return force on a vibration movement. A control unit is arranged with at least one travel linkage which is connected with at least one of the spring-mounted parts and in which is arranged displaceably at least one guide element connected with a spring element generating the return force and/or the other spring-mounted part.
US08439333B2	Removable misting array assembly for an abatement system Various methods and apparatus are disclosed that relate to one or more aspects of an abatement system that removes heat and/or one or more byproducts of combustion from a gas flow. In various aspects a misting array assembly is provided that includes at least one nozzle tubing having at least one nozzle coupled thereto.
US08439328B2	Fluid control valve and fuel cell system An inlet shut valve or an outlet shut valve has a main diaphragm and a sub-diaphragm, wherein a valve closing pressure chamber and a valve opening pressure chamber are provided, respectively, on the upper surface side and the lower surface side of the main diaphragm. Furthermore, an atmospheric pressure chamber and a pressure chamber constituting a channel are provided, respectively, on the upper surface side and the lower surface side of the sub-diaphragm. A drive shaft constituting a valve element is driven in the direction for bringing about a valve open state by both forces, i.e. a first force acting by pressure difference between the valve closing pressure chamber and the valve opening pressure chamber and a second force acting by pressure difference between the atmospheric pressure chamber and the pressure chamber constituting a channel and acting in the same direction as the first force.
US08439327B2	Shear block and blade interface and method A blowout preventer having a first elongated cavity extending along a first axis and a second elongated cavity extending perpendicular to and intersecting the first elongated cavity, a shear block provided in the first elongated cavity and configured to slide along the first axis, where the shear block has a frontal face facing the second elongated cavity and configured to slide towards the second elongated cavity; and a shear blade configured to be attached to the shear block and also configured to shear a tool provided in the second cavity when the shear block slides towards the tool. The frontal face of the shear block has at least a pin region configured to enter a tail region of the shear blade such that the pin region and the tail region form a dovetail joint or the shear block has the tail region and the shear block has the pin region.
US08439325B2	Clamp structure A clamp structure includes a clamping component for clamping a tube, and at least one bridging component disposed on a lateral surface of the clamping component. A pivoting portion is disposed on the bridging component, and the bridging component pivots with an antenna module via the pivoting portion, so that the antenna module can pivot relative to the clamping component along a radial plane of the clamping component.
US08439323B1	Display hanging system Aspects of the present invention include an apparatus for hanging a display device. In one implementation, the apparatus for hanging a display device, includes an upper mount plate suitable for attaching to a flat surface having a left cable extending downward and approximately normal to a longitudinal axis of the upper mount plate and a right cable extending downward and approximately normal to the longitudinal axis of the upper mount plate. In addition, the apparatus further includes a lower mount plate attachable to a back portion of a display device. The left cable is coupled to at least two approximately vertically aligned receiving points on a left portion of the lower mount plate. The right cable is coupled to at least two approximately vertically aligned receiving points on a right portion of the lower mount plate.
US08439322B2	Apparatus and method for mounting of cabinets A mounting post for supporting a plurality of electronic cabinets, each having different bolt patterns, comprising a hollow post configured to receive a hollow mount at the upper end, a stabilizer plate attached to the lower end of the post, and a hollow mount selected from a plurality of hollow mounts, each having a lower end configured to mate to the post, and having a substantially planar upper surface with openings formed therein corresponding to a unique bolt pattern for an electronics cabinet.
US08439320B2	Extracting apparatus for storage module The extracting apparatus includes a bracket, a holder extractably mounted to the bracket, a locking member, an elastic member connecting the bracket with the locking member, and a handle pivotably connecting to the bracket. The locking member is pivotably engaged with the bracket. The handle includes a cam, and the locking member includes a latch portion. When the extracting apparatus is at a locked position, the latch portion of the locking member extends through the bracket to securely engage with the holder. When the handle is pivoted to move toward the bracket, the cam of the handle drives the locking member to rotate relative to the bracket for releasing the holder.
US08439319B2	Standalone, mobile and adjustable stand and tray The invention is a self-supporting, mobile or fixed, adjustable stand for items such a computer keyboard, mouse or laptop computer for use while sitting on a recliner, sofa or chair, standing, sitting or kneeling on the floor. The assembly consists of an articulated arm mechanism with supporting gas spring piston that allows the tray to be raised or lowered effortlessly. The arm assembly swivels sideways to allow the user to sit or stand more freely. The tray assemblies also swivel for added practicality. The stand may be movable or fastened to a floor or another firm location. Movable base assembly options are included and four adjustable foot pegs or casters may be used to level the stand perfectly to the floor and to improve the mobility. The stand can be used with a wired or wireless keyboard and mouse when viewing a large monitor or television from a distance.
US08439312B2	System and methods for simultaneous momentum dumping and orbit control The present system and methods enable simultaneous momentum dumping and orbit control of a spacecraft, such as a geostationary satellite. Control equations according to the present system and methods generate accurate station-keeping commands quickly and efficiently, reducing the number of maneuvers needed to maintain station and allowing station-keeping maneuvers to be performed with a single burn. Additional benefits include increased efficiency in propellant usage, and extension of the satellite's lifespan. The present system and methods also enable tighter orbit control, reduction in transients and number of station-keeping thrusters aboard the satellite. The present methods also eliminate the need for the thrusters to point through the center of mass of the satellite, which in turn reduces the need for dedicated station-keeping thrusters. The present methods also facilitate completely autonomous orbit control and angular momentum control using.
US08439309B2	De-icer, a fixture and a method of adjusting the position of a de-icer A de-icer including a bracket arranged on a structural member and a de-icer module mounted on the bracket. The de-icer module is adjustable arranged on the bracket such that a position of the de-icer module is adjustable in relation to the bracket. Also a fixture and a method of adjusting a position of a de-icer.
US08439304B2	Energy absorber system for an undercarriage, and an aircraft provided with said energy absorber system An energy absorber system (10) provided with a shock absorber (11) extending from a first end (12) suitable for being connected to a rocker arm (5) of an undercarriage (3) housed in a wheel bay (4), towards a second end (13). In addition, the system includes a fitting (20) connected to said second end (13), and guide means (30) for guiding said fitting (20) in translation that is suitable for being fastened to a flank (4″) of said wheel well (4), said system (10) including deformable energy absorber means (40) fastened to said fitting (20) and suitable for being fastened to a structure (4″) of said bay (4) and also to fusible retention means (50) suitable for fastening said fitting (20) to said flank (4″), said fusible retention means (50) rupturing from a predetermined threshold in order to allow said fitting (20) to move under guidance from said guide means (30) so as to deform said energy absorber means (40).
US08439301B1	Systems and methods for deployment and operation of unmanned aerial vehicles An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system provides for UAV deployment and remote, unattended operation with reduced logistics requirements. The system includes a launcher that can include one or more launch tubes, each launch tube configured to house a UAV in a canister and one or more gas generators operatively connected to each canister and configured to push the UAV out of the launch tube by releasing gas into the canister. A controller for activating the gas generators can sequentially, and with a predetermined time delay, expel the UAV with a desired velocity and acceleration. The system further includes a UAV recovery device, a power supply, a security subsystem, a command and control subsystem and a communications subsystem. Command, control and communications can be provided between a remote station and the UAV.
US08439295B2	Aircraft engine inlet pivotable barrier filter An inlet barrier filter system for an aircraft engine includes a filter panel (35) including filter media for filtering air prior to intake (15) into the engine. The filter panel has a forward edge (F). The system further includes an actuator for selectively pivoting the panel to form an opening around the panel for allowing air to bypass the filter. The opening is rearward of the forward edge of the filter panel.
US08439290B2	Method and device to control certain functioning of a multiplier/bait casting reel A method and a device for computer-aided regulation of rotational speed of a reel spool, when paying out (and reeling in) an on-wound line. The line surface is surveyed by digital imaging and/or an electronic distance measuring device; and incidents of line rising from the spool are captured and reported to an on-board computer which, proportionally to such input, orders variable engaging/releasing of braking force to the brake(s) of the reel to avert backlash.
US08439289B2	Cheese shredding apparatus A cheese shredding apparatus has a table top with a rolling platform that uses 2 pairs of beveled wheels. A partitioned hopper for containing blocks of cheese. A pair of cutting grids located at opposite ends of a cutting block. A pair of push cube modules. A motor powers the rolling platform by way of a cam which converts a rotational motion from the motor into a linear motion which actuates the back and fro motion of the rolling platform.The beveled wheels roll on a pair of tracks which are held within the table top frame. The beveled wheels maintain a very precise and accurate tracking motion of the rolling platform as they move back and forth as guided by the tracks.
US08439288B2	Feed device with two rotary valves which are variable independently of each other A feed device for a high-pressure roller press for the high-pressure comminution of material to be ground, the feed device feeding the material to be ground in a controlled manner into the roller nip between two rollers of the high-pressure roller press. The feed device has at least two rotary valves, the position of which is variable independently of each other. In a refinement of the invention, the feed device also has a shaft which is variable in height above the roller nip. By means of the rotary valves which are variable independently of each other and by means of the height-variable shaft, the feeding behavior of the feed device can be varied during the starting of the high-pressure roller press and during the operation of the high-pressure roller press in order thereby to prevent the high-pressure roller press from vibrating and to ensure optimum operation of the high-pressure roller press.
US08439281B2	Modular coatings sprayer A modular coatings sprayer includes a valve housing in which there is defined a nozzle orifice and a valve-shaft bore opposite the nozzle orifice. A housing side wall extends between the orifice and bore and defines an internal fluid passage. The side wall includes an opening through which pressurized fluid is introduced into the fluid passage. A valve including a valve shaft with opposed back and nozzle-closing ends is sealably supported within the bore such that (i) the nozzle-closing end is situated within the housing and the back end is situated external to the housing and (ii) the valve shaft can axially reciprocated between a first position in which the nozzle-closing end does not seal the nozzle orifice and a nozzle-closing position in which the nozzle-closing end seals the nozzle orifice such that pressurized fluid within the fluid passage is prevented from exiting through the nozzle orifice. The valve housing is configured for selective cooperative coupling to a valve-actuating assembly having a body and a lever mounted for pivotable movement relative to the body. The lever selectively engages a portion of the valve shaft external to the valve housing such that (i) when the lever is pivoted in a first direction, the valve shaft is axially displaced in order to open the nozzle orifice and (ii) when the lever is pivoted in a second direction, the valve shaft is axially displaced toward the nozzle-closing position.
US08439279B2	Stone waterfall with integrated planter and water distribution system A decorative portable natural stone waterfall containing an integrated planter and a water distribution system is disclosed. The waterfall is made of natural stone, but is small enough to be portable. The waterfall contains a planter integrated within the main body of the waterfall which is designed to contain a living plant. There is also a water distribution system that contains a water inlet, a distribution chamber and a multiplicity of water distribution tubing that supplies water to the face of the waterfall. In one configuration there is also a pump and a means for recirculation the water, and in another the water is supplied by an external source. In one configuration the water is supplied to the top section of the waterfall, and in another configuration the water is supplied directly to the face of the waterfall. The invention also consists of a kit comprising the planter with integrated water distribution system, along with stone and mortar for constructing the waterfall.
US08439274B2	Financial card with a per-transaction user definable magnetic strip portion A financial card having a body with a front surface and a back surface and a primary account number associated with a primary account of a user of the financial card, the card including a magnetic strip positioned on the back surface configured for magnetic encoding including the primary account number. The magnetic strip includes a user definable portion for providing a selectable discretionary encoding thereto. The card also includes a user interface having at least one user input device positioned on the body of the financial card. The user interface is configured for receiving input from the user at a time of use of the financial card selecting a particular account indicator from among a plurality of account indicators each of which is associated with the primary account. The user interface is coupled to the user input device and to the user definable portion of the magnetic strip for providing the selectable discretionary encoding to the user definable portion of the magnetic strip responsive to the selected particular account indicator as received by the user interface at the time of use by the user.
US08439273B2	Contactless electronic tag The contactless electronic device (12) comprising a near-field communication antenna (18), a microcircuit (20) connected to the antenna (18) and a magnetic shielding layer (24) arranged so as to extend substantially facing the antenna (18). The antenna (18) and the microcircuit (20) are combined into a module (26) and the device (12) comprises a body (16) comprising and open cavity (30) on one of its faces in which are housed the module and the shielding layer in such a way that the shielding layer closes off the cavity.
US08439272B2	Resonant circuit structure and RF tag having same A RF tag includes a resonant circuit structure and a RF device. The resonant circuit structure includes a first conducting layer; a second conducting layer spaced apart from the first conducting layer; and two conducting base portions respectively connecting two ends of the first conducting layers and two ends of the second conducting layers. A slit is formed on the first conducting layer and the RF device is electrically coupled to the first conducting layer and disposed over the slit.
US08439265B2	Camera applications in a handheld device A hand held device containing at least one camera can perform various functions. In some embodiments, digitized images taken with two or more camera lenses having different fixed focal lengths may be combined to emulate a high-resolution optical zoom, and may also permit the device to perform 3D applications. In other embodiments, a device containing a camera may perform as a bar code reader, and may wirelessly transmit and/or visually present a bar code to other devices. Movable optics may permit the same camera to focus on either distant objects or on a close-up bar code.
US08439264B2	Reading apparatus having partial frame operating mode A method for decoding a decodable symbol using an optical reader having a 2D image sensor that is configured to operate in a partial frame capture operating mode. In a partial frame operating mode, the reader clocks out and captures at least one partial frame of image data having image data corresponding to less than all of the pixels of an image sensor pixel array. In one embodiment, the reader operating in a partial frame operating mode captures image data corresponding to a linear pattern of pixels of the image sensor, reads the image data, and attempts to decode for a decodable bar code symbol which may be represented in the image data.
US08439263B2	Handheld electronic article surveillance (EAS) device detector/deactivator with integrated data capture system A portable, cordless hand-held device for locating an active electronic article surveillance (EAS) device, managing the activation/deactivation status of the EAS device and logging information relating to alarm events triggered by the EAS device. The device includes an EAS detector for detecting the presence of an EAS tag or label, a state manipulator for manipulating the activation/deactivation state of the detected active EAS label, at least one data capture device for capturing data related to the alarm event, and a memory for storage of the captured data.
US08439262B2	Image capture apparatus and method There is provided an image capture apparatus and method. An image capture device can be used in the decoding of a decodable indicia, e.g., bar code symbols and/or text characters and can further be used in the capture of one or more images that may or may not be subjected to decoding processes. In one embodiment, an image captured with use of an image capture device is an image of an item bearing a decodable indicia. In one embodiment, an image capture device can have a plurality of user selectable modes of operation.
US08439261B2	Method for producing an electronic object comprising a data transfer stage and the obtained object A method for producing a portable electronic object having contact pads arranged on a plane with a thickness which differs from the thickness of a standard smartcard. The object is electrically connected to data transfer station connectors, by delivering a data transfer station having an electric probe connector and submitting the object to the data transfer station in such a way that the contact pads thereof are accessible to the electric probes in a direction perpendicular to the plane. Objects obtainable include UBS keys or PCMCIA cards or readers.
US08439259B2	Code reading apparatus, sales registration processing apparatus, and code reading method According to one embodiment, a code reading apparatus includes an image capturing unit, a determining unit, and a notifying unit. The image capturing unit captures an image picked up by an image pickup unit. The determining unit determines whether the image captured by the image capturing unit satisfies a condition for extracting code data from a code symbol. The notifying unit notifies, if the determining unit determines that the image does not satisfy the condition, a cause that prevents satisfaction of the condition or a method of improving the image pickup.
US08439258B1	Counterfeit detection system and method An anti-counterfeit system comprises an item with at least one marker affixed thereto. The marker comprises a chemical signature having at least one chemical, and indicates the source of the item. The marker is detectable in the item to reveal whether the item is authentic or counterfeit. In at least one embodiment, the marker comprises a chemical signature that is unique to a particular entity and is affixed to items authentic to that entity. Further, a method of determining the authenticity of an item comprises isolating an item for testing, determining the presence of a marker, analyzing the marker for a chemical signature, comparing the results of the analysis to a chemical signature unique to a particular entity, and determining from the comparison whether the item is authentic or counterfeit. In some embodiments, the method further comprises quantifying the results of the analysis, such as the chemical(s) discovered therein.
US08439257B2	User control of the display of matrix codes An electronic device determines to transmit an image including a matrix code to a display, receives input specifying to alter the matrix code, generates an updated image according to the input, and transmits the updated image to the display. The device may alter a size and/or position of the matrix code, a display duration and/or complexity of the matrix code, and so on. The device may generate the matrix code and modify it in response to input, receive different matrix code versions and select a different version in response to input, receive the image including the matrix code and generate a replacement to overlay over the image, and so on Additionally, independent of input, the device may receive an image, detect an included first matrix code, generate a second matrix code based on the first, and generate an updated image by adding the second matrix code to the image.
US08439255B2	Remote code reader system A remote code reader system sends a code read by a code reader to an appropriate function by utilizing identification information assigned specific to a client in order to select a function. A barcode reader and a host computer connected to a network are included therein. An ID (pen ID) of the barcode reader 1 and a barcode as read are transmitted to the host computer through a terminal connected to the network. The host computer decodes the received pen ID to select a CGI which conforms to the pen ID, and sends the barcode to the CGI 9 as selected in order to make the CGI process it.
US08439254B2	Fully enclosed carton A fully enclosed paperboard carton having a top, a base, a pair of oppositely disposed sides and a pair of oppositely disposed end panels. Each end panel being substantially planar and perpendicular to the base and top. Each side having a lower portion that is substantially planar and perpendicular to the base and an upper portion that is substantially planar and tapers inwardly towards its edge connection with the top.
US08439248B2	Methods and associated apparatus of constructing and installing rigid riser structures Disclosed is a method of fabricating and installing a riser tower structure, preferably in a welding chamber, and a welding chamber suitable for the method. The method includes fabricating sections of the riser tower structure at a site remote from the site of installation; transporting the sections of the riser tower structure to within the vicinity of the installation site; and assembling together the sections of the riser tower structure in the vicinity of the installation site. The welding chamber includes a plurality of guide means, each providing a guide for one of the elongate elements of the riser tower structure, and floats on the sea surface when in use.
US08439245B2	True multi-fire endocutter An exemplary surgical endocutter may include a staple holder; at least one feeder belt having two lateral edges, at least part of at least one feeder belt extending into the staple holder; and staples, wherein each said staple may include a first end frangibly affixed to a corresponding feeder belt, wherein each first end is affixed to the feeder belt at a location laterally spaced from the longitudinal centerline of the feeder belt, and a second free end; and wherein the staples form at least one row, each row including at least two said staples; wherein staples in least one row are staggered relative to said staples in at least one other row. Another exemplary surgical endocutter may include a feeder belt; staples frangibly connected to the feeder belt; and at least one wedge movable relative to the staples in a direction substantially longitudinal relative to the feeder belt; wherein at least one wedge both directly engages a plurality of staples and disconnects a plurality of staples from the feeder belt in a single continuous motion of the wedge.
US08439241B2	Apparatus and method for detaching portions of glass rods The invention is based on the object of improving the detachment of portions of a glass rod to the extent that a very planar, uniform fracture surface is produced. For this purpose, an apparatus according to the invention for detaching portions of glass rods comprises a device for the parallel holding and lateral fixing of a number of glass rods, a scoring wheel holder with a scoring wheel rotatably mounted parallel to the axis of the glass rods, at least one pressing spring for pressing the scoring wheel and the glass rods against one another, a device for guiding the glass rods and the scoring wheel past one another in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the glass rods, a holddown means for pressing against the glass rods, a breaking bar and a breaking beam, the breaking bar being arranged opposite, between the holddown means and the breaking beam.
US08439233B2	Spray head assembly A spray head assembly includes a head, a main tube, a link, a piston, a reception member, a mount piece and a spring. The parts made of metal such as the spring is isolated from the liquid to ensure that the liquid is not affected by the metal. The main tube can be stopped by the extension portion of the mount piece so as to adjust the length of the mount piece to control the travel distance of the main tube so as to control the volume of each spray.
US08439232B2	Manual pump type fluid dispenser and a method of manufacturing such a dispenser A manual pump action dispenser for dispensing at least one liquid from a container, the dispenser comprising a base and a cap (114) having an outlet (144) for the liquid, the base being mountable to or forming part of a container and the cap (114) being mountable to the base for movement relative to the base between a rest position and an actuated position, the dispenser further comprising a flexible insert (116) locatable between the base and the cap (114) to define a first pump chamber (122) for dispensing said at least one liquid, the insert being adapted to engage with the base to define an inlet through which said at least one liquid to be dispensed can enter the first pump chamber, the dispenser further comprising an inlet valve operable to enable liquid to enter the first pump chamber (122) through the inlet and an outlet valve arrangement operable to control the release of liquid from the first pump chamber through the outlet, in which the insert also defines a second pump chamber (123) for dispensing a second fluid.
US08439228B1	Multi-chambered container and associated method A multi-chambered container for selectively storing and dispensing a plurality of items may include predetermined quantities of first and second items and a container having a divided cavity formed therein. The container may further have a spout formed at a top end thereof and in fluid communication with the cavity. Additionally, the container may have first and second mutually exclusive passageways extending from the cavity and terminating at the spout. A mechanism may be included for selectively dispensing one of the first and second items from the spout. Such a mechanism may channel one item along a corresponding passageway while prohibiting another item from being dispensed. The mechanism may be operated by rotating a cam and semicircular disc to position an opening on a simultaneously rotated wheel over the desired passageway. The mechanism may rotate the opening 180 degrees for every 360 degree rotation of the cam.
US08439223B2	Base cup for a supportable pressurizable container A container having a curved bottom and base cup which allows the container to stand upright. The container and base cup are fitted together by a mechanical engagement having portions on the container and base cup. The mechanical engagement of the container is disposed within the bottom cone of the container. The mechanical engagement of the base cup is cantilevered from the bottom of the base cup. Such disposition reduces stress at the interface between the side wall of the container and edge of the base, providing for a smoother transition and better appearance. Also, this disposition provides resistance to separation of the container and base cup during drop impact. The bottom of the container may be curved and have a well therein for receiving the contents of the container and a dip tube.
US08439221B2	Beverage container with chill sleeve A round beverage container with a chill sleeve is provided having a molded plastic wall in the shape of a cup, a mug, or a pitcher. A sleeve containing a chill medium is in the shape of a truncated conical cylinder, and is positioned in the container to be lodged therein at a selected mounting location and secured by snap-action sealing and retaining rings. A bottom disk, also containing the chill medium, snaps into the container's bottom edge to form the bottom of the container. This bottom disk is sealed to the inside wall of the container by snap-action sealing and retaining rings. Sonic welding can be employed as an alternative to sealing and securing rings. A quantity of water-based chill medium is metered into the hollow cavities when the sleeve and the bottom disk are charged, taking into consideration the expansion of the chill medium (water) upon a change of phase. The wall of the container is tapered and the side walls of the sleeve and of the bottom disk are each tapered to match the taper of the container wall. A bottom face (wall) for each of the insertable chill sleeve and the bottom disk is first separate from the remainder and then snapped into place to seal the respective chill sleeve and bottom disk after they are filled. The bottom face of the chill sleeve is toroidal-shaped.
US08439212B2	Tamper-evident container closure with flip-top cap A closure includes a body adapted to mount on a container having a discharge outlet and a cap configured to move relative to the body from a closed position covering the discharge outlet to an opened position uncovering the discharge outlet. The closure also includes frangible links coupled to the body and cap that break in response to first-time movement of the cap from the closed position to the opened position to alert an observer that the cap has been opened once before.
US08439211B2	Visual organization and display apparatus and system A system includes a panel, a holder removably connected to the panel. The holder includes at least one connecting portion. A removable slide hanger has a first portion rotatably connected to the panel and slidably connected to a frame. Content placed in the holder is viewable.
US08439210B1	Wig and hairpiece holder A storage unit for wigs. The unit is attached to a door and hangs from the top of the door. The unit has head-shaped pedestals on which wigs are mounted as well as a ventilated accessory storage container and accessory supporting hooks which are pendently supported from the accessory storage container.
US08439207B2	Drapery display hanger The drapery display hanger comprises a plurality of drapery arms and a support surface. The support surface can be easily and reversibly mounted to a pre-existing display fixture without the need for special hardware. The support surface can include brackets having opposing surfaces angled from vertical for ease of installation and protrusions for securing the support surfaces in place once installed. Additionally, the drapery arms can be reversibly attached to the support surface using attachment devices at the end of each arm. The attachment devices may include segments that are inserted into the holes in the support and then secured against the walls of the support for bearing the weight of drapery on the drapery arms. Sliding and pivoting functionality is also provided. The drapery arms are sized so that full-sized draperies can be displayed facing the customer and without compressing the drapery in the display.
US08439201B2	Nanoparticle separation using coherent anti-stokes Raman scattering The invention provides methods and systems for separating particles that exhibit different Raman characteristics. The method can include introducing nanoparticles, on which Raman-active molecules are adsorbed, into a photopolymerizable resin and exposing to excite Raman active vibrational modes of the molecules to generate Raman-shifted radiation suitable for polymerizing the resin such that the Raman-shifted radiation causes selective polymerization of a resin surrounding nanoparticles if the nanoparticles provide a Raman enhancement factor greater than a threshold. In addition, methods for electrically isolating nanoparticles, or selectively removing one type of nanoparticles from collections, are disclosed. These methods rely on generation of blue-shifted anti-Stokes photons to selectively expose portions of a photoresist covering the nanoparticles to those photons. Such exposure can cause a change in the exposed portions (e.g., polymerize or increase solubility to a developing agent), which can be employed to achieve isolation of the nanoparticles or their selective removal.
US08439200B1	Dining tray and method A dining tray for use in preventing accidents and possibly food spillage. The tray includes a central T-shaped member and a pair of opposing L-shaped side members which engage rotated lateral members affixed to food containers. The method of use includes the steps of placing the lateral members of the food containers onto the inside, upper bottom surface of the tray and then by rotating the food container the lateral members engage the T-shaped member and L-shaped members whereby the containers are then held securely in place. After eating the food containers can be rotated in an opposite direction to release the lateral members for removal and cleaning purposes. In an alternate embodiment of the invention a locking clamp engages the tray and secures it to a table top or other surface.
US08439199B2	Bedding set organizer and method Provided herein is a linen set organizer with a set of perpendicularly oriented intersecting straps having fastening elements on the distal ends to releasably fasten the straps around a linen set and secure the set and wherein the straps bear identifying indicia for easy identification of the bundled content.
US08439198B2	Blank A blank of cardboard or plastics, the blank comprising a transverse fold line dividing the blank into a bearing portion and a support portion, the bearing portion having an aperture to accommodate the neck of a bottle or wall of a drinking glass or cup, the support portion being foldable under the bearing portion and terminating in at least one leg which is foldable relative to the support portion and arranged to co-operate with an underside of the bearing portion and to bear against a side of the neck or wall of the bottle or glass whereby the bearing portion is supported to extend laterally from the bottle or glass.
US08439196B2	Food storage container system A food storage container system including a plurality of food containers and a tray is provided. Each food container includes a container body defining an interior space for holding a product therein and a lid configured to open and close the interior space. The container body is formed from a material including a silicone elastomer. The tray includes a plurality of holders. Each holder defines a recess sized and shaped to removably hold one container of the plurality of containers therein.
US08439191B1	Cell phone protector case having the combination of an interior soft silicone shell and a hard exterior shell with aligned retaining members A cell phone protector case comprising a combination of an interior soft silicone shell and a first and second hard shell press fit retained on opposite surfaces and sides of the interior soft silicone shell with the hard shell having matching retaining closing member mating flanges.
US08439190B2	Attachment guide comb organizer A dummy hair clipper head, or dummy blade, which is a form conforming to those dimensions of a hair clipper's stationary blade which are necessary for its compatibility with attachment guide combs, is employed in an attachment guide comb organizer which comprises a plurality of interconnected forms, whereby a plurality of attachment guide combs can be stored and organized. By interconnecting the forms with either a rigid, contoured or flexible means, with the options of placing them within a container and of making them releasable, the organization and storage of a set of attachment guide combs can be customized. For the purposes of storage the form can be flexible and have a reduced structure from that of the stationary blade. The use of the form also makes possible a variety of new uses for attachment guide combs including a scissor comb, razor comb, and conduit comb.
US08439186B2	Endless carrier belt for conveyor system and conveyor system fitted therewith An endless carrier belt for a conveyor system, which carrier belt is produced flat from a flexible material, includes a flat body of width L, of central longitudinal plane X and of thickness e, whose top face is designed to support a product to be carried. The flat body contains in its thickness a plurality of longitudinal reinforcing members located in only two regions of the width of the flat body, situated at about a quarter of the way across the width, on each side of the central plane. When formed into a tube, the reinforcing members can be positioned on the horizontal diameter of the cross section of the tube, thus limiting the internal stresses on the structure, especially when the structure is following non-straight paths (corners or curves) in a plane perpendicular to the axes of the endmost rollers of the conveyor on which it is used.
US08439183B2	System and method for trimming wood blocks There is disclosed a system, apparatus and method for preparing wood blocks. The embodiments disclosed may comprise paddle designs, trimming unit designs and methods, scanner unit designs and methods, for use in the trimming of wood blocks. The blocks may be used for finger jointing.
US08439181B2	Method and device for holding containers A device having a holder for holding a container such as a bottle of a size and with a second other holder for holding a container such as a bottle of another size. In addition, a method for loading a device with containers such as bottles, whereby the containers of one size are placed in a first holder and the containers of another size are placed in a second other holder to allow easy adjustment to a different size of container without requiring any time-consuming retooling work.
US08439180B2	Conveyor cargo handling system and method of use A conveyor cargo handling system for the synchronized, computerized loading and unloading of cargo containers from a vessel is comprised of at least two conveyor lines. Individually powered conveyor units, idler conveyor units, translate powered conveyor modules (“TPCM”), and rotate powered conveyor modules (“RPCM”), are remotely computer coordinated to operate in concert to safely and efficiently control traffic flow on the container terminal. The system eliminates much of the ground transportation conventionally utilized to move cargo containers to their storage destination.
US08439178B2	Proximity sensor enabled mechanical power coupling system Systems and components for providing or receiving a mechanical power service through a mechanical power coupling system. A mechanical power service switch is provided for selectively communicating the mechanical power service between a first mechanical power service communicating device, such as a host or other mechanical power service source and a first mechanical power service communicating device, such as a mechanical power service consumer. The mechanical power service switch is activated to transfer a mechanical power service in response to detection of a contactless proximity target associated with one of the mechanical power service communicating devices by a proximity sensor associated with the other of the mechanical power service communicating devices.
US08439174B1	Combined suitcase and cushion apparatus The combined suitcase and cushion apparatus provides a typical appearance for a portable suitcase, exteriorly. Within the top section provided by the first closure the second closure allows flap opening to reveal and release the mat. The mat is extendable from the top section to provide a cushioning material disposed above an inflatable chamber. Combining both forgiving resilient features provides a much more comfortable mat. Importantly, the first closure allows selective total separation of the top section. With this feature, the top section can be retained or separated for mat use. The apparatus provides all portability features to which users have become accustomed.
US08439164B1	Heavy duty, knock-down sawhorse with leveling capability A knock-down sawhorse has a support beam supported above a surface by at least two pairs of legs, each pair of legs supporting opposing ends of the beam. The beam has at least four connectors, at least a first pair of connectors arranged on opposing lateral side walls at one end and at least a second pair of connectors arranged on opposing lateral side walls at the other opposing end. Each connector has a tab downwardly depending from a top wall of the beam for engaging an axially-extending recess in an upper end of each leg. Each pair of legs is interconnected by an adjuster for adjusting a lateral spacing therebetween. Manipulation of the lateral spacing between each pair of legs allows a working height of the sawhorse to be manipulated, allowing the sawhorse to be leveled.
US08439162B1	Tree mounted ladder assembly A tree mounted ladder assembly provides adjustable spacing between steps to facilitate climbing into a tree. The assembly includes an elongated bar, an upper support coupled to the bar; and a lower support coupled to the bar. A connector is also coupled to the bar and a strap is coupled to the connector. The strap is configured for coupling around a tree to hold the upper support and the lower support against the tree. A plurality of steps is coupled to the bar.
US08439160B2	Acoustic suppression systems and related methods An acoustic suppression system for absorbing and/or scattering acoustic energy comprising a plurality of acoustic targets in a containment is described, the acoustic targets configured to have resonance frequencies allowing the targets to be excited by incoming acoustic waves, the resonance frequencies being adjustable to suppress acoustic energy in a set frequency range. Methods for fabricating and implementing the acoustic suppression system are also provided.
US08439158B2	Acoustic resonator and sound chamber An acoustic resonator adaptable to a sound chamber is designed to decrease a sound pressure while increasing a particle velocity of medium particles in a low frequency range without increasing the overall size thereof. The acoustic resonator is constituted of a pipe member having one opening end and a resistance member embracing a high resistance region and a low resistance region. The resistance member is inserted into the pipe member such that one end thereof matches the opening end of the pipe member while the other end thereof is disposed at a predetermined position inside a hollow cavity of the pipe member. The high resistance region embraces an antinode region of the particle velocity distribution with respect to a standing wave occurred in the hollow cavity at a resonance frequency, thus causing an acoustic phenomenon decreasing the resonance frequency compared to a single unit of the pipe member.
US08439155B2	Firearm sound suppressor A suppressor for a firearm is provided, wherein the suppressor can be selectively oriented relative to the firearm. The suppressor has an elongate body, a piston assembly and a cam assembly. A piston of the piston assembly can be fixedly attached to the barrel of a firearm. An indexing ring is radially fixed relative to the piston. The cam lever is selectively movable between a second position, in which the indexing ring is fixed relative to the elongate body, and a first position, in which the indexing ring can rotate relative to the elongate body.
US08439152B2	Vehicle drive transmission and steering system On an amphibious ATV, a triple-differential transmission is combined a continuously-variable drive. The gearbox can be set at a low ratio, for negotiation of difficult terrain, and at a high ratio for cruising trails. The high-low shift mechanism is located upstream, in the drive train, of the forward-reverse shift mechanism. Both mechanisms are located upstream of the steer-differential and of the two wheel-differentials. Main power from the engine is passed, through the mechanisms, directly to a wheel-ring that is common to both wheel-differentials. The common wheel-ring is bearing'd, not from the gearbox housing, but from the wheel-shafts, which are themselves bearing'd into the gearbox housing. Similarly, the steer-diff-housing is bearing'd, not from the gearbox housing, but from the steer-shafts, which are themselves bearing'd from the gearbox housing, which makes for a compact, narrow, layout of the gearbox—well suited to the ATV. The steer-brake-disks are located on the steer-shafts, and are positioned outside the gearbox housing.
US08439149B2	Brake equipment of vehicle with driver seat whose direction is changeable A brake equipment of the driver-seat-direction changeable vehicle includes: a driver-seat-direction detector configured to detect whether the driver seat is facing the one or the other side, in the travel direction, of the wheel-side vehicle body; a braking unit configured to brake one-side wheels, which are located closer to the one side, in the travel direction, of the wheel-side vehicle body, and other-side wheels, which are located closer to the other side, in the travel direction, of the wheel-side vehicle body, while controlling brake-force distribution between brake forces of the one-side wheels and the other-side wheels in such a manner that the brake-force distribution becomes a set brake-force distribution based on ideal brake-force distribution characteristics; and a switching unit configured to change the set brake-force distribution in accordance with the direction of the driver seat detected by the driver-seat-direction detector.
US08439144B2	Electric vehicle An electric vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a frame connector, a battery compartment, a battery stopper and an anti-connection portion. The battery compartment is provided for receiving a battery unit which has a cable connector connected thereto by a power cable. The battery stopper is mounted to the vehicle frame and movable between a closed position where the battery unit is stopped from removing and an open position where the battery unit is removable. The anti-connection portion is provided on the battery stopper. When the battery stopper is placed in the open position, the anti-connection portion is located at an anti-connection position thereby to prevent the cable connector from being connected to the frame connector. When the battery stopper is placed in the closed position, the anti-connection portion is spaced away from the anti-connection position thereby to allow the cable connector to be connected to the frame connector.
US08439143B2	Over bulkhead air intake system A vehicle air intake system includes a grille disposed along a forward end of a vehicle. The grille has one or more inlet apertures for admitting airflow. A bulkhead extends laterally across the vehicle rearwardly of the grille. An intake enclosure having an intake port is disposed over the bulkhead. A bulkhead cover extends from the bulkhead to the grille. The bulkhead cover has louvers defining airflow passages therebetween for allowing the airflow admitted by the grille to pass to the intake port while inhibiting the passage of particles entrained in the airflow.
US08439142B2	Straddle type vehicle Air flowing through a secondary air inducting conduit of a motorcycle is effectively cooled to enhance combustion efficiency of exhaust gas in a catalyzer. A part of the secondary air inducting conduit is exposed to a space behind a front wheel and in front of an engine, and thus acts as a secondary air cooling conduit section for cooling down secondary air flowing through the secondary air inducting conduit.
US08439140B1	Energy converter assembly An assembly structured to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy for a wheeled vehicle such as an automobile. A current generating assembly is mounted on the vehicle and an adaptor is connected between and in engaging relation with a vehicle wheel and a tire/rim assembly connected to the vehicle wheel. The adaptor includes a drive portion disposed in an accessible, partially exposed orientation relative to the vehicle wheel. A drive linkage, such as a drive belt, is disposed in driven relation to the drive portion of the adaptor and in driving relation to the current generating assembly. Rotation of the wheel during normal operation of the vehicle results in driving or powering of the current generating assembly and the generation of current to an electronic drive assembly of the vehicle and/or electrically powered components thereof, at least partially through the battery assembly associated with the vehicle.
US08439136B2	Drill bit for earth boring Embodiments of the present invention include a drill bit comprised of a plurality of blades. A first plurality of the blades has cutting elements positioned substantially within the cone section of the drill bit. A second plurality of blades has cutting elements positioned substantially within the blade flank section and the blade shoulder section. Another embodiment of the first plurality of blades in which the blades end or truncate at a radial distance substantially less than the radial distance of the blade shoulder section from the center of the drill bit.
US08439135B2	Down-the-hole drill hammer having an extendable drill bit assembly A down-the-hole drill hammer assembly includes a casing, a drill stem, a drilling lug segment and a pilot drill bit is provided. The drill stem is housed within the casing and includes an abutment surface. The drilling lug segment is slidably engaged with a distal end of the drill stem and movable between an initial configuration and an extended configuration. The drilling lug segment includes a proximal end engageable with the abutment surface of the drilling lug segment. The drill stem is movable between first and second positions within the pilot drill bit. In moving to the second position, the drill stem slidingly engages the drilling lug segment and moves the drilling lug segment to the extended configuration.
US08439132B2	Microtunnelling system and apparatus A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section having drill rotor and drill rod and connecting to intermediate drill rods allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section driven by the drive system. The drill head includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module, a steering module, a spacer module, and a mounting module, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell. Directional steering of the drill head includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods.
US08439128B2	Device for cleaning and doping equipment for threads A device for cleaning and doping (lubrication) equipment for threads (3b, 4b) of the type used to join pipes (4) to a pipe string (3), especially in connection with petroleum production, where cleaning fluid and dope (lubricant) are sprayed at the threads (3b, 4b) at relatively high pressure from at least one nozzle (5, 6) mounted in the rotatable make-up section (1) of a power tong, and where at least one injection pump (7, 8) arranged to supply cleaning fluid or dope to the at least one nozzle (5, 6) is located in the rotatable make-up section (1).
US08439125B2	Apparatus, method and system for deep earth grounding An apparatus and method for deep earth grounding includes positioning a power driver at a site, the power driver comprising a frame and an impact hammer operatively connected to the frame, adjusting placement of the impact hammer, raising the impact hammer, driving 10 foot sectioned grounding rods down into the ground at the site using the hammer, testing resistance, and determining if more additional grounding rods are necessary based on the resistance. A power driver device includes an open frame, guide rails operatively connected to the frame, an impact hammer operatively connected to the guide rails and moveable along the guide rails, and a hand crank assembly operatively connected to the frame and configured for raising the guide rails and the impact hammer up and down along the frame.
US08439122B2	Radial spring latch apparatus and methods for making and using same New locking connector assemblies and telescoping extension/retraction assemblies are disclosed that operate on the natural spring rate constraints of radial protrusions or radially constrained rings as they interact with engaging members to provide the locking force and permit the connector and extension retraction assemblies to be engage and disengaged or extended and retracted.
US08439119B2	Latching mechanism for changing pump size A latching mechanism for selectively disengaging an upper pump from a motor in an ESP. The latching mechanism comprises barbs formed on an upper end of an upper shaft that are engaged by a tool to lift the upper shaft until a lower end of the upper shaft disengages from an upper end of a motor shaft. When the upper pump is disengaged from the motor shaft, only a lower pump is driven by the motor and flow of well fluid is circulated past the disengaged upper pump via a bypass line. The upper pump shaft may reengage the motor shaft if additional lift is required.
US08439118B2	Pressure vortex device to allow flapper closure in high velocity fluid applications The problem of flappers that will not close due to high velocity gas rushing past and creating a vortex that has zones of high pressure pressing the flapper against the force of the torsion spring is reduced or overcome with modifications in the passage through a subsurface safety valve so as to reduce the intensity of the vortex to allow the torsion spring to pivot the flapper to closed position. Various shapes are inserted adjacent the flapper base to create turbulence to minimize or prevent the vortex and the associated pressure increases that would otherwise prevent flapper closure with the flow tube retracted. Inserts that create turbulence are placed in a recess that in part holds the flapper when it is rotated to the open position.
US08439117B2	Vortex controlled variable flow resistance device and related tools and methods A vortex-controlled variable flow resistance device ideal for use in a backpressure tool for advancing drill string in extended reach downhole operations. The characteristics of the pressure waves generated by the device are controlled by the growth and decay of vortices in the vortex chamber(s) of a flow path. The flow path includes a switch, such as a bi-stable fluidic switch, for reversing the direction of the flow in the vortex chamber. The flow path may include multiple vortex chambers, and the device may include multiple flow paths. A hardened insert in the outlet of the vortex chamber resists erosion. This device generates backpressures of short duration and slower frequencies approaching the resonant frequency of the drill string, which maximizes axial motion in the drill sting and weight on the bit. Additionally, fluid pulses produced by the tool enhance debris removal ahead of the bit.
US08439116B2	Method for inducing fracture complexity in hydraulically fractured horizontal well completions A method of inducing fracture complexity within a fracturing interval of a subterranean formation comprising characterizing the subterranean formation, defining a stress anisotropy-altering dimension, providing a wellbore servicing apparatus configured to alter the stress anisotropy of the fracturing interval of the subterranean formation, altering the stress anisotropy within the fracturing interval, and introducing a fracture in the fracturing interval in which the stress anisotropy has been altered. A method of servicing a subterranean formation comprising introducing a fracture into a first fracturing interval, and introducing a fracture into a third fracturing interval, wherein the first fracturing interval and the third fracturing interval are substantially adjacent to a second fracturing interval in which the stress anisotropy is to be altered.
US08439114B2	Method and apparatus for orienting perforating devices The present invention provides an apparatus and method of orienting perforating gun strings conveyed on a tool string. One embodiment of the present invention provides an orienting weight provided in a portion of the perforating device, such as the shaped charge, the loading tube or the gun housing. An adapter is provided intermediate the tool string that facilitates conveyance of the gun string downhole. Additionally, the adapter enables the gun string to rotate independent of the tool string.
US08439111B2	Hydrocarbon recovery process Hydrocarbons are recovered from subterranean formations by waterflooding. The method comprises passing an aqueous displacement fluid via an injection well through a porous and permeable sandstone formation to release oil and recovering said released oil from a production well spaced from said injection well, wherein (a) the sandstone formation comprises at least one mineral having a negative zeta potential under the formation conditions; (b) oil and connate water are present in the pores of the formation; and (c) the fraction of the divalent cation content of the said aqueous displacement fluid to the divalent cation content of said connate water is less than 1.
US08439108B2	Application of degradable polymers in sand control Degradable polylactic or polyhydroxyalkanoate polymers may be used to viscosify aqueous fluids for use in wells, Sand control screen or liner can be coated with a solid degradable polymer during placement in a well. Mechanical changes or flow changes in a well can be caused by solid degradable polymer that changes physical properties after it is placed in a well. Parts of devices or entire devices can be made of solid degradable polymer that converts to a fluid after selected times in an aqueous environment in a well.
US08439106B2	Logging system and methodology A technique facilitates the logging of hot, subterranean environments with a variety of logging tools. Logging tools with temperature limit ratings may be employed in environments that would otherwise be detrimental to operation of the logging tool due to the heat. The logging tool may be protected through placement of the tool at a desired location within a non-metallic flask. The logging tool also is surrounded with an insulating material and/or a material with a high heat of fusion disposed within the non-metallic flask to increase the time span for operating the logging tool in the hot, subterranean environment.
US08439105B2	Completion system for subsurface equipment An apparatus for creating multiple and isolated well flow paths operating at different pressures in the wellbore is described. These multiple flow paths establish a full circulation loop with the surface and a remaining isolated flow channel produces reservoir fluids to the surface. Heat is transferred from the produced reservoir fluid into the circulated loop via a unique down-hole heat exchanger. The flow of reservoir fluid through the isolated annular well channel allows for more efficient and extensive extraction of heat from the reservoir fluid compared with merely heating the circulating loop via the well bore exterior surface.
US08439104B2	Multichannel heat exchanger with improved flow distribution Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube configurations designed to reduce refrigerant pressure drop through a heat exchanger manifold. In certain embodiments, tubes inserted within the manifold adjacent to a refrigerant inlet have non-rectangular or recessed end profiles configured to increase flow area near the inlet, thereby reducing a pressure drop through the manifold. In further embodiments, insertion depths of the tubes within the manifold vary based on distance from the inlet. This configuration may establish a larger flow area adjacent to the inlet, thus reducing the pressure drop and increasing heat exchanger efficiency.
US08439102B1	Vector tile, refractory assembly unit including same and refractory array including same A refractory brick assembly unit is provided, including a refractory brick member having an inner passageway extending therethrough from a first opening at an inlet end face to an opposed second opening at an outlet end face thereof. A vector tile is also included, having an annular portion that is coaxially arranged with respect to a longitudinal extension axis of the inner passageway of the refractory brick member positioned in a portion of the inner passageway of the refractory brick member and located proximate the second opening at the outlet end face thereof, and having a domed portion extending from a first surface of the annular portion at a predetermined angle with respect to the longitudinal extension axis of the inner passageway of the refractory brick member so as to occlude at least a portion of the second opening of the refractory brick member at the outlet end face thereof.
US08439099B1	Dual curtain closure system having uni-directional securing hooks A dual curtain closure system for reversibly covering a portal opening, wherein the upper end of each curtain is attached across an upper margin of the opening and the lower end of each curtain is folded back on itself to form an upwardly opening pocket. Each pocket supports an elongated rod, the ends of which are engaged by opposing channel members defining the lateral margins of the portal opening. The sides of each curtain comprise loop fastening material and the channel members comprise hook fastening material such that the curtains are sealed to the channel members when activated to cover the opening. The hook fastening material has only downwardly facing hooks to prevent curtain hang up and promote proper operation of the closure system.
US08439091B2	Pneumatic tire A pneumatic tire including: a tread portion and a belt layer on an outer periphery of a carcass layer that extends between left and right bead portions and a plurality of circumferential main grooves extending in a tire circumferential direction provided on an outer surface of the tread portion, wherein on a tire cavity side surface of the tread portion, a ridge (Ra) protruding into the tire cavity side in a direction opposite to a tire radial direction is formed that extends in the tire circumferential direction in a position offset from a tire center towards a well side of a mounting rim so as to encompass an entire width of a well and an entire width of a circumferential main groove positioned farthest to a shoulder side.
US08439090B2	Tyre equipped for attaching an object to the wall thereof and fastener therefor A tire is described that includes a casing designed to be inflated to a service pressure and equipped to accept a functional object, such as an electronic circuit, for example, by means of a two-part fastener 10, such as a touch-close fastener, for example. A first part of the fastener is attached to a wall of the casing, while the second part can be joined to the first part when placed in contact with the first part to attach and keep the object on the casing when the tire is in service. The first part of the fastener includes a thin backing fixed to the wall of the casing and possessing a structural elongation capacity greater than or equal to that of the wall to which the thin backing is fixed. The presence of the thin backing does not significantly hinder the elongation of the wall of the casing when subjected to the stresses encountered during use of the tire and, where relevant, during its manufacture. Connection elements between the first and second parts give these parts a certain looseness with respect to each other so that the object held by the second part of the fastener is not subjected to all or some of the stresses occurring in the wall during operation.
US08439088B2	One-way valve for a fuel-tank filling conduit A one-way valve for a fuel-tank filling conduit deters siphoning and prevents back flow of fuel. The one-way valve comprises a blocking element arranged in the conduit and pivotable between a flow-blocking, object-insertion blocking first position and a flow-admitting, object-insertion blocking second position. In the second position the blocking element divides the conduit into flow areas of comparable width. The one-way valve further comprises a bias element that biases the blocking element to the first position.
US08439086B2	Tubular structure A tubular structure having a multi-layer, strength-enhanced first end segment, a multi-layer, strength-enhanced second end segment, and a flexible segment intermediate said multi-layer strength-enhanced first end segment and said multi-layer, strength-enhanced second end segment is provided. Methods for manufacturing tubular structures are also provided.
US08439084B2	Flexible conduit with locking element A flexible conduit for insertion into a body lumen comprises a plurality of elements coupled end to end to define a conduit lumen. A first one of the elements includes a male portion and a female portion. A second element includes a female portion having an inner surface configured to engage a male portion of an outer surface of the first element to form a first ball joint. A third element includes a male portion, an outer surface of the male portion of the third element configured to engage an inner surface of the female portion of the first element to form a second ball joint. The male and female portions of the first element are adapted to frictionally engage the female portion of the second element and the male portion of the third element to establish a rigid connection therebetween.
US08439080B2	Pressure compensator A pressure compensator is configured to compensate for volume variations of an insulation medium or other liquid of a subsea installation. The pressure compensator includes a first bellows chamber having a first bellows part. The first bellows chamber is in flow connection with an insulation medium or liquid chamber of the subsea installation, and the walls of the first bellows chamber are configured to separate the insulating medium from surroundings. The first bellows chamber is surrounded by a second bellows chamber having an end wall, a side wall and a second bellows part formed by a diaphragm. The second bellows chamber is configured to form a closed intermediate space around the first bellows chamber. The walls of the second bellows chamber are configured to separate at least the bellows parts of the first bellows chamber from the surrounding water. The second bellows chamber is filled with an intermediate medium.
US08439076B2	Faucet module A faucet module has a base, a valve chamber formed in the base, a cold water inlet port, a hot water inlet port and an outlet port in communications with a cold water inlet pipe, a hot water inlet pipe and an outlet pipe respectively, a first threaded section formed at an outer periphery of an opening of the valve chamber, a flange formed around all the pipes at a predetermined position away from the bottom face of the base, a protrusion having a second threaded section respectively formed at an end of each pipe below the flange, each of the base, the valve chamber, the cold water inlet port, the hot water inlet port, the outlet port, the cold water inlet pipe, the hot water inlet pipe, the outlet pipe, the first threaded section, the flange, the protrusion and the second threaded section formed as an entire unit.
US08439075B2	Outlet of a spigot An outlet of a spigot has a bottom seat, a neck, a head and a flow passage. The bottom seat has a flat bottom face. The neck is curvedly formed on and protrudes upward from the bottom seat. The head is formed on and protrudes forward from the neck and has a front side. The flow passage is formed in the outlet between the bottom seat, the neck and the head and has an inlet hole and an outlet hole. The inlet hole is formed through the bottom face of the bottom seat and communicates with the flow passage. The outlet hole is formed through the front side of the head and communicates with the flow passage and has a width and a length. The length of the outlet hole is wider than the width of the outlet hole.
US08439074B2	Plastic construction for decorative spout A faucet spout and method of manufacturing the same in which a layer of structural plastic is injection molded in two or more pieces and joined to form an armature having a waterway through it. A platable plastic layer is overmolded on some or all of the armature to provide a detailed decorative surface that is plated by deposition of a metal or metal alloy coating.
US08439068B2	Fluid flow control valve A fluid-flow control valve includes an inlet (E) for connecting to a feed duct; an outlet (S) for connecting to an evacuation duct; a valve member (1) that, at rest, bears against a valve seat (2) to isolate the inlet (E) from the outlet (S); and an actuator mechanism (5, C) for moving the valve member (1). The actuator mechanism includes a chamber (C), which communicates with the inlet (E) via a hole (11) and is disposed relative to the valve member (1) on its side facing away from the seat (2), in such a manner as to urge the valve member against its seat; and a bypass (5) that connects the chamber (C) to the outlet (S), the bypass being controllable between an open state for passing fluid, and a closed state.
US08439067B2	Kitchen machine comprising means for discharging impurities A kitchen machine having a housing that includes a housing base; a channel molded in a periphery of the housing and running in a direction of the housing base; a housing recess connected to the channel; and a coupling arranged in the housing recess to couple working apparatuses to the kitchen machine, wherein the housing recess includes means to discharge impurities.
US08439066B2	Double seat valve capable of cleaning the seat and having a cleaning device for a housing penetration The invention relates to a double seat valve capable of cleaning the seat and having a cleaning device for a housing penetration critical for cleaning, According to the invention, a double seat valve of generic type ensures cleaning of the housing penetration of the pipe shaft or the pipe shaft expanded into a pressure compensation piston of the independently driven first closing element, starting from the valve housing part to an axial extension length of at least the entire opening stroke of the double seat valve, and the related relevant prior art is thus improved. This is achieved according to the invention in that, when a first closing element (3) is moved downward by the first partial stroke (T1), a freely penetrable ring gap (S21) is formed between an outer surface (K) of the pipe shaft (3b/3c) and a first rod seal (21) disposed in the first valve housing part (1a).
US08439063B2	Heat and/or steam activated valve and method therefor A valve (10) is disclosed which is operable to automatically transition from a closed state to an open state in response to heat. The valve (10) includes: a cover (12) having at least one opening (12a) therein; at least one adhesive layer (32, 36) for sealing a perimeter of the cover (12) to a wall (22) of a food cooking package (20) on which the valve (10) is positioned; and, a deformable element (14) that shrinks in response to being exposed to heat, the deformable element (14) having a perimeter which is sealed by an adhesive when the valve (10) is in its closed state, wherein shrinking of the deformable element (14) pulls the perimeter of the deformable element (14) away from a site where it is sealed by the adhesive, thereby breaking the seal about the perimeter of the deformable element (14) and transitioning the valve (10) from its closed state to its open state.
US08439058B2	Anchoring system for portable shelters and the like Disclosed is an anchoring system for a portable shelter that includes a plurality of anchor assemblies each having a support surface for supporting one of the legs of the portable shelter above the ground when the leg rests on the support surface such that the anchor assemblies are positionable under the legs of the portable shelter to support the portable shelter above the ground. Each anchor assembly includes a container, a retainer and an attachment. The container forms a hollow interior space for holding weighting material and has a removable lid forming the support surface. The retainer blocks the leg from sliding off of the support surface. The attachment includes an anchor plate located within the hollow interior space and below the weighting material and a cable extending from the anchor plate and out of the container for attachment to the tensioning line.
US08439057B2	Walking stick A walking stick (10) having a shaft (12) having a first portion (34) and a second portion (36) received within the first portion (34) such that the second portion (36) can slide relative to the first portion (34). A first transverse handle (18) is provided at an upper end of the shaft (12) and a second handle (20) is provided pivotable between a retracted position in which the second handle (20) is generally parallel to the shaft (12) and an extended position in which the second handle (20) extends transversely to the shaft (12). A spring member (48) is provided for biasing the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) to slide outwardly from the first portion (34) and a locking mechanism is provided having a trigger (38) adjacent the first handle (18). The locking mechanism secures the first portion (34) of the shaft (12) relative to the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) and actuation of the trigger (38) releases the locking mechanism such that the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) can slide outwardly from the first portion (34) of the shaft (12) under the force of the spring member (48).
US08439053B2	Paint caddy An apparatus for cleaning and storing painting tools is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a bucket member having a bottom wall and a side wall extending vertically from the bottom wall to an upper periphery wherein the side wall surrounds an open cavity. The apparatus also comprises a manifold nested within the bucket member. The manifold substantially bifurcates the open cavity into a first volume within the manifold and a second volume between the side wall and the manifold. The manifold extends vertically between an upper end disposed closer to the upper periphery than the bottom wall and a lower end disposed closer to the bottom wall than the upper periphery. The apparatus comprises at least one retaining member projecting into the second volume from one of the side wall and the manifold. The apparatus comprises at least one drain extending through one of the bottom wall and the side wall.
US08439048B2	Device for applying a cosmetic composition that includes magnetic particles, and an assembly including the device A device for applying a cosmetic composition including magnetic or magnetizable particles, said applicator device comprising handle means and an applicator head including an applicator surface and a magnetic device suitable for generating a magnetic field, and the applicator head further including a setback forming a reservoir suitable for containing said cosmetic composition, said reservoir being located in the applicator surface and having a bottom. The bottom of the reservoir is movable relative to the applicator surface by an adjuster device associated with the applicator head.
US08439046B2	Filter cigarette In a filter cigarette having a tobacco strand, a wrapping and a filter, the filter possesses at least one gas phase-active filter part which contains at least one gas phase-reducing substance. The gas phase-reducing substances are embedded in a filter material matrix. They are introduced in a quantity of at least 75 mg per filter and at least 5 mg/mm of the length of the gas phase-active filter part. The filter cigarette exhibits a filter ventilation of at most 30% (or of from 30% to 70%). The NFDPM value is between 4 and 10 mg/cigarette (or in the range of from 2 to 4 mg/Cigarette), as measured in accordance with ISO smoking conditions. The gas phase quotient Q1, defined as (μg of benzene per cigarette)/(mg of CO per cigarette) and measured in accordance with ISO smoking conditions, is less than 1.5, preferably less than 1.
US08439045B2	Thermally mediated tissue molding A method and device to modify tissue in a manner such that it will take on a permanent new shape. Subdermal tissue is heated to approx 60° C. at which point it becomes pliable and moldable and will take on a permanent new shape if allowed to cool and heal in a new position.
US08439044B2	Dental appliance for minimizing effects of bruxism A dental appliance for maintaining a separation between the occlusal plane surfaces of the posterior teeth in order to avoid or minimize the adverse effects of bruxism, especially while sleeping. The appliance comprises bitepad assemblies, side assemblies for adjustably receiving the bitepad assemblies, and a strap assembly for connecting the side assemblies. Bitepad cores are provided with solid projections and mechanical locks that enhance bonding with associated overmolds for improved durability. Side assembly flanges are divided to achieve independent flexibility and improved conformity for enhanced stability and comfort. A mesial area of the connecting strap assembly is thickened and rigidified to create a flare in the areas of the cuspid roots to minimize irritation and discomfort to the gum tissue.
US08439040B2	Forehead-contacting device for a breathing mask and method for making the same A forehead-contacting device for a breathing mask includes a support element made from an elastomer material. The support element forms a support face which in an application position is adapted to seat on a forehead area of a user. The support element includes a jacket that defines a hollow chamber adapted to be filled with a viscous medium.
US08439037B2	Exhalation valve assembly with integrated filter and flow sensor An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled gas to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap.
US08439035B2	Flow regulation vent A flow regulation vent includes a fixed portion adapted to engage a gas supply conduit and a spring force biased movable portion connected by a hinge to the fixed portion and flowingly connected to the pressurized gas supply. The fixed portion includes a gas flow orifice. The movable portion is pivotally movable between 1) a relaxed position, whereby at a specified minimum operating pressure, the movable portion is pivoted by the spring force away from the fixed portion to a position to establish a first gas washout flow area between the movable portion and the gas flow orifice; and 2) a fully pressurized position, whereby at a specified maximum operating pressure, the pressurized gas offsets the spring force to pivot the movable portion to a position adjacent the fixed portion to establish a minimum gas washout flow area between the movable portion and the gas flow orifice.
US08439034B2	Oxygen conserving oxygen delivery system The present invention extends to methods, systems, computer program products, and circuits for conserving oxygen during the delivery of oxygen to a user. Embodiments of the invention use a microphone to detect breathing sounds indicative of different portions of a breathing cycle. Sounds not related to the breathing cycle are filtered out of the signal. Using the breathing sounds, a microprocessor differentiates inspiration from other portions of the breathing cycle. When inspiration is detected, a valve is transitioned to permit the flow of oxygen from an oxygen source to a user to deliver an appropriate bolus of oxygen. The microprocessor can also detect fault conditions, such as, for example, apnea, failure to deliver a bolus of oxygen, and restrictions in the flow of oxygen from the oxygen source to a user.
US08439032B2	Wireless communications for a breathing assistance system A system for wireless data communication for use with a breathing assistance system configured to provide breathing assistance to a patient is provided. The system includes a wireless notification module, one or more wireless repeaters located remote from ventilation system, and a wireless receiver located remote from the one or more wireless repeaters. The wireless notification module is coupled to a ventilation system and configured to wirelessly transmit data received from the ventilation system. The one or more wireless repeaters are configured to receive the data wirelessly transmitted by the wireless notification module, and wirelessly transmit the received data. The wireless receiver is configured to receive the data wirelessly transmitted by the one or more wireless repeaters, and communicate the received data to a user remote from the ventilation system.
US08439030B2	Nebulizer device An improved tee type nebulizer unit for medicinal use that delivers a mist of properly sized aerosol particles of medicament to the patient. A uniquely configured air flow baffle assembly, which is strategically positioned within the tee of the nebulizer unit, markedly increases the rate of liquid-to-aerosol conversion compared to prior art tee type nebulizer units. More particularly, due to the positioning and sizing of the air channeling pathways within the air flow baffle assembly, an increase in rate of aerosol mist production by factors of 200%-300% is realized.
US08439019B1	Compressed air delivery system with integrated cooling of a continuous variable transmission A compressed air delivery system in which power from a power supply is transmitted to a rotary air compressor through a dry running, continuous variable transmission (CVT) utilizing a belt coupled between two pulleys enclosed within a CVT housing. The air pressure differential created by the rotary air compressor is used to urge cooling air through the CVT to cool the CVT belt. The pressure differential may be utilized to push cooling air into the CVT housing or to draw cooling air through the CVT housing. In one embodiment, a portion of the compressed air discharged from a supercharger may be routed through a bleed line and into the CVT housing.
US08439018B2	Heated fuel injector system A heated fuel injector system and controller that includes a temperature sensing means to provide closed-loop control of a heating element heating fuel dispensed by a heated fuel injector. Closed-loop control provides more accurate temperature control of the heating element so that fuel heating is provided as quickly as possible while also protecting the fuel from being boiled and protecting the heated fuel injector from being damaged by excessive temperature. By monitoring how the signal from the temperature sensing means varies over time, fault conditions such as a lack of fuel flow, and fuel ethanol percentage may be detected.

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