| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08465602B2 |
Amorphous-nanocrystalline-microcrystalline coatings and methods of production thereof
This invention relates to thermally sprayed coatings having an amorphous-nanocrystalline-microcrystalline composition structure, said thermally sprayed coating comprising from about 1 to about 95 volume percent of an amorphous phase, from about 1 to about 80 volume percent of a nanocrystalline phase, and from about 1 to about 90 volume percent of a microcrystalline phase, and wherein said amorphous phase, nanocrystalline phase and microcrystalline phase comprise about 100 volume percent of said thermally sprayed coating. This invention also relates to methods for producing the coatings, thermal spray processes for producing the coatings, and articles coated with the coatings. The thermally sprayed coatings of this invention provide enhanced wear and corrosion resistance for articles used in severe environments (e.g., landing gears, airframes, ball valves, gate valves (gates and seats), pot rolls, and work rolls for paper processing). |
| US08465599B2 |
Chromiun-enriched oxide containing material and preoxidation method of making the same to mitigate corrosion and fouling associated with heat transfer components
A method of providing sulfidation corrosion resistance and corrosion induced fouling resistance for a heat transfer component is disclosed. The heat transfer component includes a heat exchange surface formed from a chromium-enriched oxide containing material formed from the composition δ, ε, and ζ, wherein ζ is a steel containing at least about 5 to about 40 wt. % chromium, ε is a chromium enriched oxide (M3O4 or M2O3 or mixtures thereof) formed on the surface of the steel ζ, wherein M is a metal containing at least 5 wt. % Cr based on the total weight of the metal M, and δ is a top layer formed on the surface of the chromium-enriched oxide ε, comprising sulfide, oxide, oxysulfide, and mixtures thereof. The top layer δ comprises iron sulfide (Fe1-xS), iron oxide (Fe3O4), iron oxysulfide, iron-chromium sulfide, iron-chromium oxide, iron-chromium oxysulfide, and mixtures thereof. The metal M of the chromium enriched oxide (M3O4 or M2O3 or mixtures thereof) may comprise Fe, Cr, and constituting elements of the steel ζ. The steel ζ may be selected from low chromium steels, ferritic stainless steels, martensitic stainless steels, austenitic stainless steels, duplex stainless steels and precipitation-hardenable alloys. |
| US08465595B2 |
Apparatus and method for cleaning substrates/media disks
An apparatus and method for cleaning workpieces (5) using two pairs of substantially vertical rotating roller brushes (15) at each brush station whereby rotation of said brushes (15) propel workpieces (5) from one brush station to the next. Workpieces (5) are held for a predetermined period of time at each station by edgewheels (30, 31) which also rotate the workpieces (5). Cleaning fluid is sprayed onto workpieces (5) as they rotate to assist in removing particulate contamination. Method involves inserting a single workpiece (5) in between two pairs of rotating roller brushes (15) which scrub said workpiece as it is rotated by a pair of edgewheels (30, 31). There may be a divider shield (9) in between each brush station to prevent a large proportion of particulate matter and use cleaning fluid from traveling between the brush stations. |
| US08465592B2 |
Film deposition apparatus
A disclosed film deposition apparatus includes a turntable having in one surface a substrate receiving portion along a turntable rotation direction; a first reaction gas supplying portion for supplying a first reaction gas; a second reaction gas supplying portion for supplying a second reaction gas; a separation area between a first process area where the first reaction gas is supplied and a second process area where the second reaction gas is supplied, the separation area including a separation gas supplying portion for supplying a first separation gas in the separation area, and a ceiling surface opposing the one surface to produce a thin space; a center area having an ejection hole for ejecting a second separation gas along the one surface; and an evacuation opening for evacuating the chamber. |
| US08465588B2 |
Ammonothermal method for growth of bulk gallium nitride
A high-quality, large-area seed crystal for ammonothermal GaN growth and method for fabricating. The seed crystal comprises double-side GaN growth on a large-area substrate. The seed crystal is of relatively low defect density and has flat surfaces free of bowing. The seed crystal is useful for producing large-volume, high-quality bulk GaN crystals by ammonothermal growth methods for eventual wafering into large-area GaN substrates for device fabrication. |
| US08465585B2 |
Calcium aluminate clinker as a refractory aggregate with and without barium addition and use thereof
The present invention provides for a refractory aggregate composition comprising an improved calcium aluminate clinker having the formula CnAx wherein C is calcium oxide and A is aluminum oxide, wherein n is an integer from about 1 to about 12, wherein x is an integer from about 1 to about 24, and wherein said clinker has from zero to less than about fifty weight percent C12A7, and including a source of barium that is substituted for calcium in said calcium aluminate clinker. Analogs, derivatives and hydrates of the improved calcium aluminate clinker are provided. A refractory composition and a sprayable refractory composition are disclosed comprising the improved calcium aluminate clinker. A method for improving the insulating character and/or penetration resistance of a liner in contact with molten aluminum in an aluminum manufacturing process or during aluminum transport is provided. |
| US08465571B2 |
Fluid treatment device
A fluid treatment device is disclosed. The device includes a vessel having a fluid entrance and exit. Within the vessel hollow fiber of nano-porous material are arranged so as to define two volumes separated by the nano-porous material. In one embodiment the fluid, air, passes up the center of the hollow fiber drying as the air contacts the inner walls of the fiber. The device is purged by stopping the flow through the device and allowing the air pressure that builds up between the fibers to be released through the nano-porous material. |
| US08465570B2 |
Method for the purification of a gas containing CO2
A method for the purification of a feed gas stream containing at least CO2 and at least one impurity with by the incorporation of a purification step, enabling water to be at least partially removed is provided. |
| US08465568B2 |
Method and a device for controlling the rapping of an ESP
A method of controlling operation of an electrostatic precipitator (6) is provided wherein a soot-blowing operation is performed in an upstream device. According to the method, a signal is sent to a controller (34) that a soot-blowing operation is about to be initiated in the upstream device (2). The controller (34) is operative for controlling performance of a rapping event with respect to the electrostatic precipitator (6), and causes a rapping decision (52; 152) to be made, based on receipt of the signal. The rapping decision includes establishment of a first point in time (T1) for initiating performance of a rapping event with respect to the electrostatic precipitator (6), such that said first point in time (T1) is correlated to a second point in time (T2). The second point in time (T2) is the time at which the soot-blowing operation of upstream device (2) is initiated. |
| US08465563B2 |
Method and device for producing a synthesis gas containing H2 and CO
In a process for producing synthesis gas by catalytic conversion of hydrocarbons contained in a desulfurized feed gas stream with steam, the mixture of feed gas and steam is preheated by heat exchange at a pressure of 10 to 45 bar to a temperature of 300 to 700° C. and is subsequently heated by heat exchange above a catalyst at a pressure of 10 to 45 bar to a temperature of 650 to 950° C. To minimize the apparatus involved, it is provided that the mixture of feed gas and steam traverses a catalyst bed contained in a reaction tank, and the catalyst bed is heated by thermal radiation and convection. |
| US08465557B2 |
Process for making bio-oils and fresh water from aquatic biomass
A reactive distillation process is disclosed for converting aquatic biomass to a bio-oil. In the process a slurry of aquatic biomass is contacted with a particulate inorganic material. The mixture is heated to or above its boiling point. During the heating step biomass is converted to bio-oil. In a preferred embodiment water vapors emanating from the slurry are collected and condensed. The fresh water obtained may be used for irrigation, in human domestic uses, and for human consumption. |
| US08465554B2 |
Method of manufacturing lithium ion capacitor
Provided is a method of manufacturing a lithium ion capacitor. The method includes the steps of: contacting a lithium supplying source to an anode directly; pre-doping lithium ions into the anode by immerging the anode and the lithium supplying source into a doping electrolyte solution; forming an electrode cell by sequentially stacking the lithium ions on the pre-doped anode and a cathode with placing a separator therebetween; cleaning the doping electrolyte solution absorbed to terminals of the electrode cell; fusing the terminals; and sealing the electrode cell with exposing the fused terminal. |
| US08465551B1 |
Temporary prostatic stent for benign prostatic hyperplasia
This invention relates to a temporary indwelling prostatic stent which provides a passage for urine through the prostatic urethra and which enable the patient to void the bladder at will. This temporary prostatic stent consists of a coiled or braided made out of metal or plastic section which spans the prostatic urethra, wings composed of memory alloy allowing an anchoring means in the bladder, and an anchoring means below the external sphincter, and a retrieval string to facilitate removal of the stent from the patient. |
| US08465547B2 |
Modular interbody devices and methods of use
Methods and devices for spacing vertebral members using modular intervertebral devices and insertion tools. The devices may include opposing first and second endplates, and an intermediate member configured to fit between and support the endplates. The insertion tool may include an elongated handle and a distracter. A method of inserting the device using the tool may include inserting the endplates positioned on opposing sides of the handle into the intervertebral space and positioning the endplates in the intervertebral space relative to first and second vertebral members. The method may include deploying the distracter and increasing a distance between the endplates. Another step may include inserting the intermediate member into the intervertebral space and between the endplates and supporting the endplates with the intermediate member. The insertion tool may then be removed from the intervertebral space. |
| US08465544B2 |
Accommodating intraocular lens
An intraocular lens for implantation in a capsular bag of an eye includes an optic disposed about an optical axis and a haptic including a protruding portion disposed inside the optic. The optic has an anterior face and an opposing posterior face that are configured to provide a lens power. In response to an ocular force of the eye, the haptic transmits a force that alters one or more of a shape of the optic and an axial thickness of the optic. The protruding portion of the haptic has a refractive index that is equal to a refraction index of the optic for at least one a wavelength within the visible spectrum. |
| US08465540B2 |
Stent for the positioning and anchoring of a valvular prosthesis
The present invention relates to a stent for the positioning and anchoring of a valvular prosthesis in an implantation site in the heart of a patient. Specifically, the present invention relates to an expandable stent for an endoprosthesis used in the treatment of a narrowing of a cardiac valve and/or a cardiac valve insufficiency. So as to ensure that no longitudinal displacement of a valvular prosthesis fastened to a stent will occur relative the stent in the implanted state of the stent, even given the peristaltic motion of the heart, the stent according to the invention comprises at least one fastening portion via which the valvular prosthesis is connectable to the stent. The stent further comprises positioning arches and retaining arches, whereby at least one positioning arch is connected to at least one retaining arch. |
| US08465538B2 |
Variable length endovascular graft prosthesis adapted to prevent endoleaks
A variable length endovascular prosthesis to prevent endoleaks includes a substantially tubular first graft member having an interior surface, an exterior surface, and an open end, and a substantially tubular second graft member engaged coaxially within the first graft member, the second graft member having a proximal end. The prosthesis further includes a substantially tubular fluid-tight connecting member attached at one end to the first graft member and attached at another end to the second graft member, where the connecting member is axially compressible and expandable to facilitate engagement of the proximal end of the second graft member within the first graft member while maintaining a seal between the proximal end of the second graft member and the open end of the first graft member. |
| US08465535B2 |
Portable apparatus and method for the administration of heat exchange in the lungs of a mammal
An apparatus and method for the delivery and removal of a biocompatible liquid to and from the lungs of a mammal, comprising an ice water container adapted for containing ice water; a biocompatible liquid tank disposed within the ice water container, with the tank adapted for containing a biocompatible liquid; and a biocompatible liquid infusion reservoir disposed within the biocompatible liquid tank. The apparatus also comprises a pump assembly and tube assembly that are in operable connection to the ice water container, biocompatible liquid tank and biocompatible liquid reservoir so as to provide a volume of biocompatible liquid to and from the lungs of a mammal, while breaths of oxygen are supplied using a manually operated air bag. |
| US08465529B2 |
Apparatus and method for direct vertebral rotation
An instrument for spinal rotation that aligns and holds direct vertebral rotation (DVR) lever arms relative to each other to achieve an initial axial alignment of a segment of vertebrae and allows the final DVR rotation by rotating the instrument and lever arms together. A method of direct vertebral rotation that allows rotating the vertebrae to be aligned relative to each other, and collectively rotating the vertebrae to be aligned relative to adjacent spinal segments by rotating the direct vertebral rotation instrument. A system for direct vertebral rotation having at least two pedicle screws. The system also includes at least two levers attachable to the pedicle screws and a clamping instrument configured to clamp the levers. |
| US08465528B2 |
Surgical retaining screw
In order to simplify the construction and handling capability of a surgical retaining screw comprising a shaft which has an external thread, a head part which is connected to the shaft securely or movably and has an interior space open towards the upper side located opposite the shaft as well as two openings which are arranged on oppositely located sides of the head part, are open towards the upper side and form a receptacle for a bar-like connecting part, and a clamping screw which can be screwed into the interior space from the upper side in such a manner that it clamps a connecting part placed in the receptacle in this receptacle, it is suggested that the clamping screw be screwed into a screw sleeve which abuts with a conical outer surface tapering towards the upper side of the head part on the complementary conical inner surface of a bearing sleeve surrounding the screw sleeve and that the bearing sleeve be held on the head part to as to be secured against any displacement in the direction towards the upper side. |
| US08465527B2 |
Vertebral osteosynthesis equipment
Equipment at least one anchoring assembly including a hook integral with a body, this body being passed through by a hole and capable of being connected to connection means making it possible to connect the anchoring assembly to a connection bar for connecting a series of vertebrae. The anchoring assembly has a continuous flexible ligament able to be engaged in the hole and to form a loop allowing the engagement of the ligament around a structure of a vertebrae or mounted on a vertabrae, and has stop means making it possible to immobilize this ligament in relation to the body. |
| US08465523B2 |
Apparatus and system for vertebrae stabilization and curvature correction, and methods of making and using same
An apparatus and system useful as a stabilization or correction system for a spinal column. A threaded rod is used that can be straight, rigid, bent or flexible depending on the vertebrae condition to be addressed. The rod may be bent or flexible to achieve varying degrees of lordosis (backward curvature) or kyphosis (forward curvature) before being affixed to the anchoring means and apparatus. The straightness, curvature, bent, or flexibility of rod depends upon the location along the spinal column. Once installed to the vertebrae, the rod provides the proper, desired curvature and stabilization for the spinal column. Sharp edges and corners of the apparatus are eliminated by rounding the edges and corners. |
| US08465522B2 |
Self-reinforcing tissue fixation
Self-reinforcing mechanical systems with application to biological fixation of a first tissue (for example, soft tissue) to a second tissue (for example, bone). As a repair construct is stressed, there is a feedback mechanism (self-reinforcing) against failure that is initially triggered by early failure. The construct “detects” its early/impending failure and utilizes the potentially destructive force to reinforce itself. |
| US08465521B2 |
Method and suture needle construct for cruciate ligament repair
A suture needle construct and method for extracapsular ligament reconstruction in mammals. The joint is first is first explored, and the damaged ligament and meniscus are debrided. The joint capsule is closed and a tunnel is created at the appropriate location in the proximal tibia for tibial fixation. Subsequent to the formation of the tibial tunnel, a suture having a substantially curved needle at one end and a substantially straight needle at the other end is brought in the proximity of the joint. The suture is passed around the lateral fabella using the substantially curved needle, then deep to the patellar ligament using the substantially straight needle, and through the tibial tunnel using the straight needle. The needles are cut off, and the sutures are tensioned over repair site. |
| US08465520B2 |
Surgical fastener
An electrosurgical system is provided and comprises a fastening device including a cartridge configured to retain a plurality of fasteners therein and an anvil configured to form the plurality of fasteners; a plurality of surgical fasteners loaded in the cartridge, at least one of the fasteners includes a backspan, a pair of legs depending from the backspan, and at least one contact pad fabricated from an electrically conductive material on the backspan, wherein at least one of the pair of legs is configured to contact the at least one contact pad upon a formation thereof; and an indicating circuit associated with the fasteners, the indicating circuit including an electrical conduit in electrical contact with the at least one contact pad, wherein the indicating circuit includes an energy source and an indicator, wherein the indicator activates upon one of a proper and improper formation of the fasteners. |
| US08465518B2 |
Tissue puncture closure device with automatic torque sensing tamping system
Methods and apparatus for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in tissue separating two internal portions of the body of a living being with an anchor, a sealing plug and a filament connecting the anchor and sealing plug are disclosed. The methods and apparatus provide for automatic tamping of the sealing plug. In addition, torque required to tamp the sealing plug is automatically sensed and gear ratios of an automatic tamping device are automatically changed in response to sensed changes in torque. A planetary transmission may be used to automatically change gear ratios in response to the changes in torque. |
| US08465514B1 |
Tourniquet system
A tourniquet system, having at least one circumferential enclosed channel formed in a garment; a tourniquet band positioned in the at least one circumferential enclosed channel; a tightening and securing mechanism associated with the tourniquet band, wherein the tightening and securing mechanism includes two or more apertures formed therethrough, and wherein at least a portion of the tourniquet band loops through the apertures of the tightening and securing mechanism, such that when the tightening and securing mechanism is turned, a diameter of the tourniquet band is decreased and a tourniquet force is applied to an inside wall of the circumferential enclosed channel; and at least one portal in the garment, proximate the circumferential enclosed channel, to provide access to the tightening and securing mechanism. |
| US08465512B2 |
Safety suture cutting device and related methods
A sheath for use with a scalpel cutting device including a sheath body configured to cover a scalpel blade at a distal end of a scalpel cutting device. The sheath advantageously may include a plurality of slots formed therein. Providing two or more slots provides additional functionality and/or ease of manufacturing. A single sheath configuration including a plurality of slots (e.g., two) may be manufactured so as to be used with scalpels including somewhat different blade configurations (e.g., which may require a slightly different slot location). Such a universal sheath allows a single sheath design to be used with multiple scalpels, easing manufacture and reducing costs. In addition, depending on the particular location of the slots and the configuration of the scalpel blade, the different slots may each intersect the scalpel blade and provide different characteristics for cutting a suture. |
| US08465510B2 |
Rotational atherectomy system with enhanced distal protection capability and method of use
An atherectomy system for removing a stenotic lesion from within a vessel of a patient is disclosed. The system comprising an atherectomy device for reducing the lesion and a separate elongate drainage catheter for evacuating from the treated vessel embolic particles released into the vessel from the stenotic lesion during its reduction by the atherectomy device during an atherectomy procedure. The atherectomy device and the separate elongate drainage catheter are each configured for introduction into the patent's vasculature though separate openings in at least one peripheral artery of the patient. |
| US08465508B2 |
Vascular ablation apparatus and method
An apparatus for the treatment of venous stasis includes an elongated intraluminal member shaped and dimensioned for passage through vessels of a subject. The intraluminal member includes a proximal end and a distal end. A conduit extends from proximate the proximal end of the intraluminal member to proximate the distal end of the intraluminal member. The conduit is shaped and dimensioned for fluid communication between the proximal end of the intraluminal member and the distal end of the intraluminal member. The distal end of the intraluminal member includes disruption means proximate thereto for ablating a predetermined vessel wall. A method is also provided for the treatment of venous stasis. The method is achieved by advancing an elongated intraluminal member through a vein to a treatment site, activating the intraluminal member for ablation of the treatment site and injecting sclerosant into the vein at the treatment site. |
| US08465507B2 |
Apparatus and methods for occluding a hollow anatomical structure
A device for occluding a hollow anatomical structure includes a clamp having at least first and second clamping portions adapted to be placed on opposite sides of the anatomical structure. At least one of the first and second clamping portions is movable toward the other from an open position to a clamping or closed position to occlude the anatomical structure. The clamp has an annular shape configured to surround the hollow anatomical structure in the open position and a flattened shape in the clamping position configured to occlude the hollow interior of the anatomical structure. The clamp is preferably covered with fabric to promote tissue ingrowth. A clamp delivery and actuation device is provided for allowing the clamp to be applied in either an open surgical procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. |
| US08465503B2 |
Finger guided suture fixation system
A suture fixation system includes a suture assembly having an anchor, an introducer, and a delivery device. The introducer is attachable to a finger of a person and includes a platform attached to an exterior of the introducer and a zip line attached to the platform. The delivery device is movable along the zip line and configured to removably retain the anchor. The introducer allows the finger to identify a target landmark within a patient and the delivery device is movable along the zip line and attachable to the platform to position the anchor for insertion to the target landmark. |
| US08465501B2 |
Ligating apparatus
A ligating apparatus includes a clip, a clip connecting member, a clip holding member, an operating wire, an inner sheath member, an outer sheath member and first and second movement restricting portions. The clip ligates a body tissue with arm portions. The clip connecting member connects to a clip base portion. The clip connecting member is inserted through the clip holding member. The operating wire connects to the clip connecting member. The inner sheath member encloses the operating wire to support the clip holding member. The outer sheath member covers an outer periphery of the inner sheath member and freely advances and retreats. The outer sheath member advances and/or retreats to change the degree of opening of the arm portions. The first movement restricting portion restricts the inward movement of the clip holding member. The second movement restricting portion restricts the outward movement of the clip holding member. |
| US08465500B2 |
Thorascopic heart valve repair method and apparatus
An instrument for performing thorascopic repair of heart valves includes a shaft for extending through the chest cavity and into a heart chamber providing access to a valve needing repair. A movable tip on the shaft is operable to capture a valve leaflet and a needle is operable to penetrate a captured valve leaflet and draw the suture through the leaflet. The suture is thus fastened to the valve leaflet and the instrument is withdrawn from the heart chamber transporting the suture outside the heart chamber. The suture is anchored to the heart wall with proper tension as determined by observing valve operation with an ultrasonic imaging system. |
| US08465497B2 |
Tool for removing object from the body of a patient
A method for making a tool to remove a discrete object from the body of a human or animal patient includes a single length of Nitinol tubing and a sheath. The tubing includes a tool head section at a distal end of the tubing and a shaft section extending from a proximal end of the tubing to the tool head section. The tool head section includes a slitted section and a non-slitted section. The non-slitted section is disposed at a distal most end of the tubing. The slitted section includes a plurality of longitudinal slits forming a plurality of strands. |
| US08465496B2 |
Method and instrument for occlusion of uterine blood vessels
A method for performing a cesarean section includes the occlusion of uterine arteries using an atraumatic occlusion instrument, for example, an atraumatic clamp, after pulling the uterus from the pelvic cavity and placing it on the patient abdomen, The method significantly reduces blood loss in patients. An atraumatic occlusion clamp has disposable covers made of gauze. |
| US08465493B2 |
Spinal stabilization installation instrumentation and methods
A system for installing a vertebral stabilization system. The system includes an installation tool including a handle portion and a shaft extending distally from the handle portion. The shaft includes a conduit and a staple mechanism. The system also includes a flexible implant member extending along the conduit configured to be advanced out from a distal end of the shaft, and a staple housed in the staple mechanism. The staple is configured to secure the flexible implant member to a vertebra. The handle portion is configured to selectively advance the flexible implant member from the shaft and to selectively actuate the staple mechanism. |
| US08465490B1 |
Disposable neucleotomy shaver
A spine shaver designed with increased tissue removing efficiency is described. The shaver comprises a cylindrical shaver blade, an elongated body, and a pulley and belt drive mechanism. The shaver blade further comprises a tissue cutting surface that extends along the longitudinal axis of the shaver. The shaver is further designed with the shaver blade positioned perpendicularly to the elongated body. The increased surface area of the shaver blade and perpendicular blade orientation provide an efficient means of removing spinal tissue and debulking the area between two vertebrae. |
| US08465487B2 |
Plasma-generating device having a throttling portion
The present invention relates to a plasma-generating device comprising an anode, a cathode, and intermediate electrodes. The intermediate electrodes and the anode form an elongate plasma channel that extends from a point between the cathode and the anode and through the anode. The plasma channel has a throttling portion with a throat having the smallest cross-sectional area of the entire plasma channel. As a plasma flow passes through the throttling portion, the plasma flow's speed is increased while its pressure is decreased. By varying the position of the throttling portion in the plasma channel properties of the discharged plasma can be changed. Plasma flows with different properties can be used for various applications, especially, medical procedures. |
| US08465485B2 |
Energy based devices and methods for treatment of patent foramen ovale
Methods, devices and systems for treating patent foramen ovale (PFO) involve advancing a catheter device to a position in a heart for treating a PFO, bringing tissues adjacent the PFO at least partially together, and applying energy to the tissues to substantially close the PFO acutely. Catheter devices generally include an elongate catheter body, at least one tissue apposition member at or near the distal end for bringing the tissues together, and at least one energy transmission member at or near the distal end for applying energy to the tissues. In some embodiments, the tissue apposition member(s) also act as the energy transmission member(s). Applied energy may be monopolar or bipolar radiofrequency energy or any other suitable energy, such as laser, microwave, ultrasound, resistive heating or the like. |
| US08465484B2 |
Irreversible electroporation using nanoparticles
The present invention provides methods, devices, and systems for in vivo treatment of cell proliferative disorders. The invention can be used to treat solid tumors, such as brain tumors. The methods rely on non-thermal irreversible electroporation (IRE) to cause cell death in treated tumors. In embodiments, the methods comprise the use of high aspect ratio nanoparticles with or without modified surface chemistry. |
| US08465483B2 |
Circuit for radiofrequency devices applicable to living tissues and device containing same
The supply circuit for the electrodes comprises a series resonant filter and a parallel resonant filter, tuned to admit the fundamental signal of the input signal and simultaneously and exponentially attenuate the remaining harmonics by increasing the frequency thereof, in such a way that the input signal with harmonics only passes the fundamental signal without attenuation to the output, while the harmonics causing interferences are increasingly attenuated as their frequency is raised. |
| US08465482B2 |
Apparatus and methods for treating female urinary incontinence
Apparatus and methods are provided for treating female urinary incontinence by applying a form of energy to tissue in the vicinity of the urethra and/or bladder outlet to change tissue compliance without substantially narrowing the urethral and/or bladder outlet lumen. The apparatus comprises an elongated shaft having a means for treating urethral tissue and an expandable member deployable distal of the means for treating. The expandable member is configured to be anchored against the bladder outlet to dispose the means for treating at a desired treatment site in the urethra using only tactile feedback. The means for treating may include a needleless RF electrode, an ultrasound transducer, or a cryogenic probe configured to be advanced through a hollow needle, each of which are designed to reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with urinary incontinence. |
| US08465481B2 |
Providing cryotherapy with a balloon catheter having a non-uniform thermal profile
A cryotherapy catheter can include an elongate member and an inflatable balloon portion at a distal end of the elongate member. The inflatable balloon portion can have an external surface and an interior chamber, and the external surface can include a cooling region and a thermally insulated region. The interior chamber can be configured to receive during a cryotherapy procedure a cryogenic agent for extracting heat from body tissue that is in contact with the cooling region. A thermal profiling component can be disposed in the interior chamber and configured to thermally insulate the thermally insulated region from the cryogenic agent to minimize heat extraction by the cryogenic agent from body tissue that is in contact with the thermally insulated region. |
| US08465477B2 |
Apparatus for laser surgical ophthalmology
The present invention relates to an apparatus 10 for ophthalmological laser surgery, with an optical imaging system for imaging a treatment laser beam 14 onto a focal point, with a temperature-measuring device for measuring a temperature assigned to the imaging system, and with an electronic control arrangement (22) connected to the temperature-measuring device, which is configured to control the focal-point setting in a manner depending on the measured temperature. The present invention further relates also to an associated method. |
| US08465475B2 |
Instrument with multiple articulation locks
An articulating tool includes proximal, central and distal portions, an articulation mechanism, and first and second articulation locks. The articulation mechanism includes a pair of links, the pair comprising a proximal link on the proximal portion of the tool and a distal link on the distal portion of the tool. The first articulation lock has an engaged position and a disengaged position. When in the engaged position, the first articulation lock impedes movement of the proximal link relative to the central portion about a yaw axis, and corresponding relative movement of the distal link. The second articulation lock also has an engaged position and a disengaged position. When in the engaged position, the second articulation lock impedes movement of the proximal link relative to the central portion about a pitch axis, and corresponding relative movement of the distal link. |
| US08465473B2 |
Surgical footswitch with movable shroud
The present invention provides a surgical footswitch with a movable shroud. The footswitch is capable of controlling different kinds of surgical instruments and is adaptable by moving the shroud to meet the convenience and safety requirements of each kind of surgical instrument. |
| US08465470B2 |
Patent foramen ovale catheter and method of using the same
A catheter for use in accessing a left atrium of a living heart within a subject's body by passing from the heart's right atrium to the heart's left atrium through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in the heart, such as performing a percutaneous procedure for closing the PFO, includes a specialized preformed catheter with curves on the distal portion to be adapted within living anatomy to allow access from a subject's heart's right atrium through the PFO to the left atrium. The catheter facilitates access to the left atrium and the use of devices in procedures within and involving the left atrium, such as PFO closure devices. A method is also provided for using the catheter. |
| US08465467B2 |
Method of controlling an irrigation/aspiration system
A dual pump aspiration system having both a vacuum level control loop and a flow rate control loop. The system can be operated either as a vacuum priority system or a flow rate priority system. |
| US08465459B2 |
Medicament container
The invention relates to a medicament container for a liquid medicament, the medicament container comprising a bag with an outlet, the bag being compressible or shrinkable by subjection of at least a part of the medicament container to an energy source. |
| US08465458B2 |
Insertion site protection device
A securement device holds a medical article such as a catheter hub or a connector fitting in position upon the body of a patient and at least inhibits distal, longitudinal movement of the medical article. The securement device includes a retainer and at least one anchor pad. The retainer includes an abutment wall and a slot. The slot has a labyrinth shape leading to a cradle part of the slot. At least a portion of the medical article is inserted into the cradle part through the slot. The abutment wall includes at least one abutment that abuts against a contact point or surface on the medical article to inhibit distal, longitudinal movement of the medical article. |
| US08465447B2 |
Anti-obesity diverter structure
A system for inducing weight loss in a patient, includes (a) an elongated element extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the elongated element separating a duodenum into first and second channels, wherein the elongated element is expandable; and (b) a retainer connected to the elongated element and securing the elongated element in a desired orientation within the duodenum. In the desired orientation, all chyme flowing through the duodenum enters the first channel and the second channel is open to a papilla of vater so that digestive fluids from the papilla of vater enter the second channel. |
| US08465444B1 |
Laminitis treatment system and method
A system and methodology for treatment of circulation related conditions in hooved animals such as laminitis in horses. The methodology employs a garment wrap that is releasably secured to the animal's leg. The wrap includes several inflatable chambers, one of which, the most distal one, engages the frog and bulbar sections of the horses hoof. The methodology calls for the pressuring of the inflatable chambers in accordance with a sequence that prevents backflow from a more proximal point on the animal's leg to a more distal point on the leg. A boot arrangement including an inner sole pad are also utilized both during the therapy procedure and afterwards. The inner sole pad can provide related medications and can be used in an iontophoresis procedure. |
| US08465443B2 |
Massaging apparatus
A massaging apparatus includes: a main frame including a guiding rail unit extending in a longitudinal direction, and a mounting seat mounted slidably on the guiding rail unit; a drive unit mounted on the main frame for driving the mounting seat to move along the guiding rail unit in the longitudinal direction; and a massage unit mounted on the mounting seat and including a massage rod having a head portion, and a motor having an output shaft journalled on the mounting seat and connected to the massage rod for driving eccentric rotation of the massage rod relative to the output shaft. |
| US08465442B2 |
Handle for steerable catheter
A handle for controlling a steerable catheter can be aligned so that the direction of movement of the catheter is aligned with the orientation of an image on a monitor. In one embodiment, the handle is axially symmetric, allowing a physician to grasp it such that the movement of the catheter is aligned with an image displayed. In another embodiment, the handle is a grip that is rotatable with respect to the controls of a steerable catheter in order to align the movement with the image displayed. |
| US08465440B1 |
Urine collection system
A urine collection system having an elongated shaft with a first end and a second end, a first ring on the first end of the shaft, and a handle on the second end of the shaft, wherein a urine cup is removably held in the first ring, wherein the shaft is rigid, wherein the handle is a second ring, wherein the first ring and the second ring occupy the same planar surface, and wherein the first ring has a diameter larger than that of the second ring. |
| US08465438B2 |
Respiratory diagnostic device
The invention relates to a device for analyzing a patient's respiratory status, including: means for determining electromyographic activity (EMG-AN) at the wings of the patient's nose and the start of nasal contractions; means for determining electromyographic activity (EMG-THO) at the patient's thorax and the start of thoracic inspiratory contractions; means for determining the rostro-caudal delay between the start of the nasal contractions and the start of the thoracic inspiratory contractions; means for comparing the delay to a threshold; and means for supplying an alarm signal when the delay is above said threshold. |
| US08465436B2 |
Endoluminal implant with locking and centering fixation system
An implant centering system includes a sensor connected to a hollow cylindrical anchor via at least two struts. The hollow cylindrical anchor is transformable between a radially compressed configuration for delivery and a radially expanded configuration for lodging against a vessel wall. The struts longitudinally relocate the sensor between a first position in which the sensor is longitudinally spaced apart from the radially compressed anchor, and a second position in which the sensor is at least partially within a lumen of the radially expanded anchor and radially centered within vessel. In one embodiment, the struts are heat-set into a curved configuration and an externally applied force longitudinally relocates the sensor until the struts lock over center into their heat-set configuration. In another embodiment, radial expansion of the anchor longitudinally relocates the sensor without an externally applied force. |
| US08465434B2 |
Method and system for detection of respiratory variation in plethysmographic oximetry
A method and system for detection of respiratory variation in pulse oximetry are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes detecting a pattern consistent with a respiratory cycle of a waveform representing cardiac oscillations and identifying an abnormality based on the pattern. A system is further provided including a database and a module. The database to store data representing a physiological condition of a patient over a period of time, wherein the data comprises data corresponding to respiratory activity and data corresponding to cardiac oscillations, wherein the data corresponding to respiratory activity comprises a first waveform and the data corresponding to the cardiac oscillations comprises a second waveform; and a module for detecting a pattern of the second waveform consistent with a cycle of a first waveform and detecting an abnormality in the pattern. |
| US08465433B2 |
Ultrasound garment
Disclosed is an ultrasound assembly. The ultrasound assembly includes a garment configured to be affixed to a portion of a living body, and at least one ultrasound transducer having a fixed position on the garment and configured to provide at least one of: produce and receive, ultrasound signals that pass through the living body. The ultrasound assembly further includes an ultrasound processing unit operatively associated with the at least one ultrasound transducer and configured to process the ultrasound signals following passage through the living body, and an ultrasound operator-interface unit operatively associated with the ultrasound processing unit and configured to provide information with respect to the ultrasound signals following passage through the living body. |
| US08465432B2 |
Active transducer probes and circuits
In an example embodiment, a method for bidirectional signal propagation comprises: a) sensing a voltage level of a first signal at a first port; b) coupling the first port to an output of an amplifier with a solid state switch if the voltage level of the first signal is less than a threshold voltage, whereby a second signal applied to a second port coupled to an input of the amplifier is propagated in a first direction from the second port to the first port; and c) bypassing the amplifier if the voltage level of the first signal is greater than the threshold voltage such that the first signal is propagated in a second direction from the first port to the second port. |
| US08465431B2 |
Multi-dimensional CMUT array with integrated beamformation
To generate information representing a volume, co-arrays or synthetic transmit aperture process is performed in one dimension and beamforming is performed in another dimension. For example, a transmit aperture focuses in azimuth, but is unfocused or divergent in elevation. A multi-dimensional array receives reflected echoes. The echoes are beamformed for sub-arrays for focus in azimuth. The resulting partial beamformed information is provided to an imaging system from the probe housing for completion of beamforming at least in elevation. |
| US08465429B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus
In an examination section of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic transducer (UT) unit, a shape measurement unit, and a belt conveyor for moving the UT unit and the shape measurement unit parallel to an object to be viewed are provided. The UT unit has an UT array constituted of five ultrasonic transducers UTa to UTe arranged on a curved convex surface. The UT unit performs ultrasonic scanning of the object C to be viewed. The shape measurement unit has a laser light source and a light receiver, and measures a shape of the object C to be viewed. Based on the result of the shape measurement, a main controller of a processor selectively drives the UT, which could apply the ultrasonic wave vertically to the object C to be viewed, among the UTa to UTe, according to the moved position of the UT unit. |
| US08465428B2 |
Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic probe system
An ultrasonic probe that can be used in various stiles depending on cases. The ultrasonic probe includes: plural ultrasonic transducers for transmitting ultrasonic waves according to drive signals, and receiving ultrasonic echoes to output reception signals; a signal processing unit for performing signal processing on the reception signals outputted from the plural ultrasonic transducers to generate a transfer signal; and a communication unit adapted to be connectable to any one of plural functional modules, for transmitting the transfer signal generated by the signal processing unit to the connected functional module. |
| US08465425B2 |
Analyte monitoring device and methods of use
In aspects of the present disclosure, an auto turn on blood glucose monitoring unit including a calibration unit integrated with one or more components of an analyte monitoring system is provided. Also disclosed are methods, systems, devices and kits for providing the same. |
| US08465420B2 |
Articulating torqueable hollow device
An articulating mechanism for use in a medical device, such as an endoscope or a catheter, includes a series of stacked links disposed adjacent to one another and movable with respect to each other. Each link includes a front face tapered to a pair of pivot points and a rear face defining a wedge shaped recess for receiving the pivot points of the adjacent link. Pull-wires provide tension and hold the staked links together while also allowing for controlled bending of the distal portion by movement of one or more of the pull-wires. |
| US08465413B2 |
Method of treating Peyronie's disease
A method of treating Peyronie's disease manifested in an erect penis having a first penis side with an unaffected length and a second penis side with an affected length that is shorter than the unaffected length includes attaching an elastic device subcutaneously to the first penis side; and providing the elastic device with a stretch stop that limits elongation of the first penis side to an erection distance that is approximately equal to the affected length of the erect penis. |
| US08465410B2 |
Heart assist system
A supplemental blood flow system for assisting with blood circulation in a patient. The system includes a supplemental blood flow device implantable in the patient and a controller for directing electrical power to the supplemental blood flow device and controlling the flow rate of blood through the device. The controller includes first and second power inlets and a power outlet. The power outlet is adapted to be coupled to an electrical line leading to the supplemental blood flow device. A portable programming module may be coupled to at least one of the first and second power inlets and operable to allow pump operating parameters stored in the controller to be changed according to the needs of the patient. |
| US08465408B2 |
Systems and methods for modulating the electrical activity of a brain using neuro-EEG synchronization therapy
Described are methods, devices, and systems for a novel, inexpensive, easy to use therapy for treatment of coma, post-traumatic stress disorder, Parkinson's disease, cognitive performance, and/or amblyopia. Described are methods and devices to treat coma, post-traumatic stress disorder, Parkinson's disease, cognitive performance, and/or amblyopia that involves no medication. Methods and devices described herein use alternating magnetic fields to gently “tune” the brain and affect symptoms of coma, post-traumatic stress disorder, Parkinson's disease, cognitive performance, and/or amblyopia. |
| US08465407B2 |
Systems and methods for delivering radiation therapy
Described here are conformable brachytherapy applicators. The conformable brachytherapy applicators generally follow the contour of tissue surfaces so that distances between radiation sources and target tissues can be precisely determined and radiation dose clouds can be readily shaped. Systems and methods for using the conformable brachytherapy applicators are also described. |
| US08465403B2 |
Core training bench
An improved exercise bench for effectively and efficiently training the core portion of the user's body. The core training bench comprises a bench having an upper section and a separate lower section, a frame for supporting the bench above a surface, leg members interconnecting the frame and the bench and pivoting mechanisms interconnecting the leg members and the bench or the frame to allow the sections of the bench to pivot or tilt relative to the leg members. In the preferred embodiment, the upper section is able to pivot independent of the pivoting lower section so the user can place the bench in any one of a plurality of different tilt positions so he or she may selectively exercise different muscle groups at his or her core. The core training bench can include an oblique stand, grip bar, tension cable hooks and/or a removable section for an AB ball. |
| US08465399B2 |
Exercise platform with angled steps
An exercise platform system and apparatus is disclosed that includes a plurality of angled step surfaces. In one aspect, the exercise platform can include an exercise platform base adapted to interface with a supporting surface and an exercise platform upper surface coupled to the exercise platform base that includes a first step having a first step surface, a second step having a second step surface, and a center landing area located between the first step and the second step, the center landing area being substantially parallel to the exercise platform base, wherein the first step surface and the second step surface are angled toward the center landing area by an angle between 5 and 30 degrees, inclusive. Further, the first step surface and the second step surface can be angled by a second angle between 5 and 30 degrees toward a transverse axis laterally bisecting the exercise platform base. |
| US08465398B2 |
Elliptical exercise apparatus
An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a frame unit having a base frame and an upstanding frame, two crank arms, and an adjustment unit including a motor, a slide mounted movably on the upstanding frame, and a threaded rod connected threadedly to the slide and connected drivenly to the motor. Two swing units are disposed respectively on left and right sides of the frame unit and each includes a handle movable along with the slide, a link rod connected pivotally between an intermediate portion of the handle and one of the crank arms, a pivot arm connected pivotally to the link rod, and a pedal rod connected pivotally between a lower connecting portion of the handle and the pivot arm. The slide moves upwardly or downwardly along the upstanding frame when the motor is activated to adjust the position of the handle relative to the upstanding frame. |
| US08465395B2 |
Control apparatus and method for automatic transmission
A control apparatus for an automatic transmission includes a stepwise variable transmission mechanism; a power ON/OFF state judging section; and a shift control section configured to control the stepwise variable transmission mechanism to a target rotational speed by disengaging the first engagement portion and engaging the second engagement portion in accordance with a torque inputted to the stepwise variable transmission mechanism, the shift control section being configured to engage one of the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion which has a function to suppress a variation of an input rotational speed of the stepwise variable transmission mechanism which is generated by a switching of the power ON/OFF state when the power ON/OFF state is switched at the shift control of the stepwise variable transmission mechanism, and to disengage the other of the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion. |
| US08465394B2 |
Method for operating a transmission device of a vehicle drivetrain
A method of operating a transmission of a vehicle drive-train that comprises frictional shifting elements and an interlocking shifting element. In the neutral operating condition of the transmission, and in the case of an operating condition variation of the vehicle drive-train in which, when it is required to establish the force flow in the transmission, the interlocking shifting element is to be changed from a disengaged to an engaged operating condition, by increasing the transmission capacities of at least two frictional shifting elements which have to be engaged for producing the force flow, a rotational speed difference in the area of the interlocking shifting element is determined, and a drive torque of a drive machine is adjusted to a level that brings the speed difference within a predefined range at which the interlocking shifting element is approximately synchronized and can therefore be engaged. |
| US08465390B2 |
10-gear automatic transmission
An automatic planetary transmission comprising a drive input shaft (AN), a drive output shaft (AB), first, second, third and fourth planetary gearsets (RS1,RS2,RS3, RS4) and six shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E, F). By the selectively engagement, in each case, three of the six shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E, F), ten forward gears and up to two reverse gears can be engaged without any range shifts. |
| US08465388B1 |
Gear drive
A compact gear drive assembly for powered equipment includes a housing having a first opening, and an input shaft having a first end located in the housing and a second end extending from the housing through the first opening. The gear drive assembly further includes a first stage gear reduction engaged to and driven by the first end of the input shaft, a second stage gear reduction engaged to and driven by the first stage gear reduction, and an axle engaged to and driven by the second stage gear reduction. |
| US08465386B2 |
Semi-power split hybrid transmission with multiple modes and fixed gears
The present disclosure provides a semi-power split transmission with multiple Electric Variable Transmission (EVT) modes and fixed gears for use in hybrid electrical vehicles (HEV). The present disclosure utilizes two electric motors (“E-motors”), an engine, and two planetary gear sets. The planetary gear sets can include a dual-sun Ravigneaux-type gear set (DS-RGS), a dual-ring Ravigneaux-type gear set (DR-RGS), a three-sun Ravigneaux-type gear set (TS-RGS), and a normal planetary gear set (PGS). The E-motors can be placed at the front end of the transmission, with one E-motor at the front and one in the middle between the gear sets, and with both E-motors in the middle between the gear sets. |
| US08465385B2 |
Chain guide mechanism
In a chain guide mechanism in which a pair of chain guides, at least one of which is a pivoted guide, are connected by mounting bosses a bridge so that the chain guides and bridge can be preassembled along with a chain and driving sprocket to form an integrated unit for installation in an engine, the chain guides include a chain-engaging guiding surface extending in a first direction from a location adjacent the mounting bosses, and a chain pressing portion extending in a second direction, opposite the first direction, substantially from the same location adjacent the mounting bosses. The pressing surfaces clamp the chain against the sprocket when a pivotable chain guide is rotated so that its chain engaging surface is moved away from the chain. |
| US08465383B2 |
Sports net assembly
A sports net assembly and method of assembling a sports net assembly. The sports net assembly includes a pair of poles spaced a distance apart and positioned substantially vertically. A net having opposing ends is positioned between the spaced apart substantially vertical poles. The top net cord is secured to a cam that is slidably movable along a length of the poles to increase and decrease the tension on the top net cord thereby increasing and decreasing sag in the net between the poles. The bottom net cords and guy-ropes may be releasably secured to the poles with a key lock. |
| US08465373B2 |
Face coupling
The present invention contemplates a face coupling, and contemplates a gas turbine engine having a face coupling. The face coupling includes a plurality of driving teeth extending from a first component, and a plurality of driven teeth extending from a second component. The plurality of driving teeth and the plurality of driven teeth cooperate to transmit a torque load from the first component to second component. The plurality of driven teeth include a root transition for preventing a driving tooth tip edge from contacting an adjacent driven tooth. |
| US08465371B2 |
Torsional vibration damper assembly for a hydrodynamic coupling device
A torsional vibration damper assembly for a hydrodynamic coupling device, in particular a torque converter, comprises a primary side having a plurality of cover disk elements, a secondary side which is rotatable with respect to the primary side about an axis of rotation against the action of a plurality of damper springs, a central disk element engaging between the cover disk elements, and a turbine wheel having a turbine wheel shell. The plurality of cover disk elements are fixedly connected to one another on the radial outer side of the damper springs, and a cover disk element located directly adjacent to the turbine wheel shell is fixedly connected to the turbine wheel shell on the radial inner side of the damper springs by connection elements of a first set of connection elements. The connection elements of the first set of connection elements do not produce a fixed connection between the cover disk elements on the radial inner side of the damper springs. |
| US08465369B2 |
Game system, game system control method, and recording medium
A network game system includes a substitution management portion that, when a mid-competition player requests to substitute that player's game operations to a spectator, performs management of a substitution process in which the terminal device of that player is set as a spectating terminal, and the terminal device of the spectator is set as a competing terminal, wherein the spectator who has been substituted for that player by the substitution management portion executes the game operations of that player by operating the terminal device of the spectator. |
| US08465367B2 |
Playing browser based games with alternative controls and interfaces
Methods, systems, and computer programs for playing browser based game with alternative controls and interfaces are presented. One method includes an operation for receiving a definition of native inputs defined for causing actions in the game. The native inputs are tied to game actions through a native device. When a gesture recognition system, lacking some capability to play the game, is detected, at least some of the actions in the game associated with the native inputs are mapped to gesture inputs detected by the gesture recognition system. This enables game play with the gesture recognition system. Further, the alternate gesture inputs are translated to corresponding actions in the game according to the mapping during game play. |
| US08465365B2 |
Interactive multi-screen display
For a playing experience in a computer game that more accurately captures the experience of professional football or another sport, it would be advantageous to be able to hide from an opponent a selected player formation and play selection until the play actually begins. Similarly, in other computer games such as war games and role-playing games, it is desirable to be able to hide from other players certain properties—e.g., equipment, disposition of forces, etc.—held by each player while making this information available to the player holding these properties. In the present invention, a signal processor is inserted in the link between the game console and the television set and auxiliary displays are provided that are visible only to individual players. The signal processor detects certain frames containing information that should not be displayed to all players, removes that information from the signal to the television set and displays it instead on the appropriate auxiliary display. |
| US08465362B2 |
Double time-based bonus method and apparatus for gaming machines
A method and apparatus of wagered mechanical, electromechanical or video symbol play for individual or networked gaming machines is disclosed. The method comprises a base game, a time-based bonus element scheme that may provide a bonus event, and a time-based window of opportunity in which the bonus element scheme may be accepted by a qualified player. Upon a triggering event in the base game, or alternately a random event, the player is afforded a specific period of time in which to choose a bonus element scheme comprised of at least one but preferably two bonus elements (i.e., cash, credits, casino player points, free spins, multipliers, and the like) that are each available for a predetermined and/or random time interval. The chosen bonus element scheme provides the parameters of a bonus round game. |
| US08465361B2 |
Gaming apparatus and systems
Gaming apparatus, e.g. an Electronic Gaming Machine (EGM) (1), includes a controller (2) for implementing e.g. a slot-machine game, a poker game or the like. The EGM (1) displays a gaming image on a display (5), e.g. virtual symbol reels or card hands, and receives player instructions via an input (6) or the like, e.g. to spin the reels or manage the cards. The EGM (1) includes a guarantee feature in which an event is guaranteed to trigger if a monitored event (e.g. of the same type as the guaranteed event) does not occur within a set amount of gameplay. A guarantee indicator (9), e.g. a numerical countdown or gauge, indicates the remaining amount of gameplay required before the guarantee feature triggers. The monitored and/or guaranteed event may be a win event or a feature event, e.g. the triggering of a bonus round, free game or the like. |
| US08465360B2 |
Shooting game device
In a shooting game device capable of having more than one player play a game, stop control module (M1), generates first stop information (ST1) upon detecting that a first gun unit (30) points out of the screen, and generates second stop information (ST2) upon detecting that a first gun unit (40) points out of the screen. A virtual view position movement module (M2) moves a first virtual view position for a first player and a second virtual view position for a second player at the predetermined speed, but stops the movement of the first virtual view position upon detecting first stop information (ST1) and stops the movement of the second virtual view position upon detecting second stop information (ST2). An image generation module (M4) generates a first image (GD1) for the first player and a second image (GD2) for the second player in a virtual space based on first position information (PS1) showing the first virtual view position and second position information (PS2) showing the second virtual view position. |
| US08465357B2 |
Gaming machine with buy feature games
A gaming machine including a display. The display includes a plurality of display positions for displaying combinations of symbols. A controller controls operation of the machine. The controller includes a processor for processing data and displaying selected data on the display. A selector is operable by the player of the machine for enabling the player to select at least one feature which can be added to a base game played on the machine. |
| US08465354B2 |
Game apparatus and computer program used for the same
At a game apparatus 1 which instructs a player the time to operate a play button 5p of each operation unit 4 by moving an operation indicator 102 toward an operation criterion line 101 on a monitor 3 having a display surface 3a facing upward, while the appearance position of the operation indicator 102 being varied, the moving speed of the operation indicator 102 is calculated based on the distance from the appearance position up to the position corresponding to each operation unit 4 on the operation criterion line 101, and the access time that it takes for the operation indicator 102 to reach the operation criterion line 101. Based on the moving speed, the game apparatus varies by degrees the display position of the operation indicator 102. |
| US08465351B2 |
Pneumatic cooling apparel system
A modular air delivery system for supplying treated air to plural individuals wearing ventilation cooling garments. These garments are formed of comfortable and flexible air permeable inner layer and an air impermeable outer layer to define a plurality of air channels therebetween. In one disclosed embodiment, a flexible channel support is disposed between the inner and outer layer to prevent the layers from collapsing together during use. |
| US08465350B2 |
Control method for RESS fan operation in a vehicle
A method of controlling the ventilation system for an energy source in a fuel cell vehicle is disclosed, which includes an HVAC system, a fluid reserve, and a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS), capable of controlling a temperature of the RESS to militate against damage to or a shortened life of the battery, while maximizing vehicle durability, efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. |
| US08465349B2 |
Coin depositing and dispensing machine
A coin depositing and dispensing machine includes a partition frame arranged in front of a denomination-specific coin accumulating and ejecting portion. A pooling hopper portion and a coin identifying and sorting passage are provided on the front face of the partition frame. The partition frame can be moved between a position at which the denomination-specific coin accumulating and ejecting portion is partitioned from the outside of the machine body 11 and a position at which it is exposed to the outside of the machine body. A lock locks the partition frame at a desired partition position. Coins located at pooling hopper portion or coin identifying and sorting passage can be freely accessed, while coins at the denomination-specific coin accumulating and ejecting portion may only be accessed by unlocking the lock. As a result, coins jammed near the pooling hopper portion or coin identifying and sorting passage may be readily cleared. |
| US08465348B2 |
Guard anti-rotation lock
The invention relates to a protective hood anti-rotation lock for a portable power tool (12a-e), especially an angle grinder. Said protective hood anti-rotation lock is characterized in that it comprises an anti-rotation unit (14a-e) that is adapted to take into consideration at least one operating parameter of the portable power tool (12a-e) during anti-rotational locking. |
| US08465345B2 |
Stepped retaining ring
A two part retaining ring is described. An rigid upper portion has an annular recess along its inner diameter. An annular wearable lower portion has an inner diameter, an annular extension defined by the inner diameter and a vertical wall that is perpendicular to a surface of the second portion and opposite to the inner diameter. The annular extension fits into the annular recess of the annular first portion. A bonding material is on the vertical wall of the annular second portion. |
| US08465343B2 |
Floor levelling vehicle
This invention relates to a mobile floor levelling vehicle for levelling an undulating floor surface, which comprises a vehicle body with front and back displacement means for moving the vehicle body. To carry out the levelling operation the floor levelling vehicle comprises at least one grinding tool which is provided and driven to remove an amount of material from the floor, and at least one additional polishing device provided at a position behind the back displacement members in moving direction of the levelling vehicle. |
| US08465342B2 |
Method of making and apparatus having windowless polishing pad and protected fiber
A polishing system includes a polishing pad with an aperture that extends through all layers of the polishing pad and a light transmissive film positioned on top of a light-generating or light-guiding element of an optical monitoring system. |
| US08465340B1 |
Nest for solitary bees
A nest for solitary bees may be fashioned from a rectangular solid of either a solid matrix or a number of nest elements. Each side of the nest contains a multiplicity of apertures, where each aperture provides a nesting cavity for the bees. Each aperture has an open end and a closed end. If fashioned from individual nest elements, the orientation of the apertures may be adjusted as desired, such that each element may be stacked upon an adjacent element in one of four orientations, so that the cavities of one element may be at 0°, 90°, 180° or 270° relative to an adjacent element. If desired, the aperture density of each side may be adjusted as desired. The configuration of the nesting cavities of the present invention reduces congestion at nest entrances and provides shelter to the bees from predators and the environment. |
| US08465337B2 |
Radiation curable arts and crafts toy
A kit and method for creating a 3-dimensional toy includes a battery powered light, a container filled with a light curable polymer and one or more molds into which the light curable polymer is inserted. Optimal the kit may also include one or more sheets of transparent material to which the light curable polymer does not adhere and coloring which can be added to the light curable polymer. The method of forming a the 3-dimensional toy involves obtaining a mold, dispensing a light curable polymer into the mold; and then curing the polymer by applying light in the visible or near visible range to the polymer via a battery powered light. |
| US08465333B2 |
Skier controlled watercraft
A wireless water ski handle system used with a personal water ski towing watercraft that includes a handle component that selectively attaches to a standard water ski handle and contains a manual control module and a wireless transmitter. The control module includes directional control buttons, power ON and OFF buttons, and power Up and Down buttons. Located in the watercraft is a wireless receiver that communicates with the transmitter. Coupled to the receiver is a self-correcting propulsion and steering system that senses undesirable changes to the watercraft's motion caused by the water-skier when pulled by the watercraft. When a difference is detected, a command module located in the watercraft automatically controls the watercraft's propulsion and steering systems so the watercraft follows the desired path and velocity. The system also includes an auto-back tracking feature that automatically reduces power to the last known marked geographic point the skier was upright. |
| US08465331B2 |
Power terminal block and power supply apparatus
A power terminal block includes a base made of an insulator, a plurality of power terminals electrically insulated from each other and disposed on the base, and a plurality of terminal bases, each terminal base including a base connecting part made of a conductor and electrically coupled to the power terminals, and a first conductor connecting part made of a conductor, the first conductor connecting part being physically and electrically coupled to the base connecting part, the base connecting part and the first conductor connecting part being provided at different heights, wherein adjoining terminal bases, electrically coupled to power terminals supplied with currents with different electrical potentials, are coupled with the first conductor connecting parts of adjoining terminal bases disposed in different directions. |
| US08465330B2 |
Connector for medical instrument
A connector for a medical instrument connected to an external device for medical use is provided, and the connector for a medical instrument includes a plug portion in which electric contact point portions are placed, outer sheath cases connectively provided at the plug portion, a sub frame member interposed between the plug portion and the outer sheath cases, and having a flange portion, and a main frame member housed in the outer sheath cases and fixed to the sub frame member, wherein the plug portion and the outer sheath cases are butted against the flange portion by different fixing members respectively, and are compressed and fixed to the sub frame member. |
| US08465329B2 |
Audio connector having additional detection switch
Circuits, methods, and apparatus for improved audio connectors. One example provides an audio connector, that, for purposes of activating circuitry to receive signals from a microphone, does not detect the presence of an audio jack until the audio jack is inserted far enough into the audio connector that a microphone contact on the audio jack comes into contact with a microphone signal pin on the audio connector. To prevent the redirection of audio signals away from an audio jack when the audio jack is partially extracted from the audio connector, such partial extractions are not detected by audio signal pins. |
| US08465326B1 |
Card connector
A card connector includes a first insulating housing, a second insulating housing mounted above the first insulating housing, a plurality of electrical terminals assembled in the first insulating housing and the second insulating housing, and a shielding shell enclosing the first and the second insulating housings. The first insulating housing defines a first receiving room and a second receiving room abreast arranged with each other, and the second insulating housing defines a third receiving room located over the first and the second receiving rooms. So the card connector forms a structure combining a juxtaposition arrangement and a stratiform arrangement for the receiving rooms to reduce the space occupied by the card connector on an external circuit board. Such structure contributes to the miniaturization of digital products. |
| US08465325B1 |
Connector
A card connector includes an insulating housing defining a receiving chamber, and electrical terminals disposed in the insulating housing. A fool-proofing device includes a fool-proofing board with top edges of a front thereof designed with slopes, and two lifting members disposed in two sides of the receiving chamber with elastic portions thereof projecting upward in the receiving chamber to prop the fool-proofing board over the receiving chamber, wherein the fool-proofing board can be pressed downward into the receiving chamber by a SIM card under the guiding of the slopes, or move rearward under the drive of a micro SIM card of which a rear is inserted in the front of the fool-proofing board. An ejection device is assembled in the insulating housing for ejecting the cards out of the card connector. A shielding shell is covered on the insulating housing. |
| US08465322B2 |
Coaxial cable connector
A connector coaxial cable connector comprising a connector body having an outer ramped surface, a post, engageable with the connector body, a coupling member, axially rotatable with respect to the post, and a compression portion structurally integral with the connector body, the compression portion having a ramped inner surface, wherein the inner ramped surface is configured to cooperate with the outer ramped surface during compression of the compression portion onto a portion of the connector body. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided. |
| US08465321B2 |
Protruding contact receiver for multi-conductor compression cable connector
A multi-conductor cable connector is provided, the connector including a contact receiver, having a first end and a second end, disposed substantially within an outer housing of a multi-conductor cable connector, wherein a portion of the contact receiver extends an axial distance beyond the outer housing, a plurality of openings configured to receive a plurality of non-concentrically aligned electrical contacts, the plurality of openings being surrounded by the contact receiver, and a securing mechanism positioned proximate the contact receiver, the securing mechanism having a latch arm, wherein axial compression of the contact receiver establishes and maintains firm electrical and physical contact with the received non-concentrically aligned electrical contacts and biases the latch arm of the securing mechanism. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided. |
| US08465319B2 |
Connector system
A connector includes a housing (130) with stacked elongated ports (110a, 110b). Each of port includes terminals (150a, 150b) aligned along a vertical side. The top port and the bottom port can be configured so that the terminals are aligned along opposite vertical sides. The terminals can be supported by wafers (170a, 170b) and the wafer for the top and bottom port can be substantially different heights. The ports can be configured to provide a higher density such as port to port pitch of less than 14 mm. |
| US08465316B2 |
Connector, receptable, and connector assembly for digital band
Disclosed are a digital band connector, a receptacle, and a connector assembly for easily connecting digital bands formed of digital yarns to an external circuit. The digital band connector includes connect pins spaced apart from each other in a direction, passing through the digital bands made of digital yarns and to fix the digital bands, and electrically connected with the digital bands, a lower housing fixing the digital bands and the connect pins in a lower part and exposing one end of each of the connect pins through a lower surface, and an upper housing coupled with an upper part of the lower housing to fix the digital bands and the connect pins. |
| US08465310B2 |
Power cord for electrical dryers
A power cord for use with an electric dryer and outlet to electrically connect the dryer to an electrical receptacle of the outlet having a plurality of prong-receiving openings that are configured in either a first opening pattern or a second opening pattern. In the preferred embodiment, the power cord comprises a plug having a first side with a plurality of first plug prongs extending outwardly therefrom and a second side with a plurality of second plug prongs extending outwardly therefrom. The first plug prongs are in a first prong pattern that corresponds with the first opening pattern and the second plug prongs are in a second prong pattern that corresponds with the second opening pattern. The user utilizes the appropriate side of the plug to electrically connect the dryer to the receptacle. A switch on the plug allows the user select which side is electrically activated. |
| US08465309B2 |
Detection switch structure and connector having the same
A detection switch for detecting when a card is inserted in to a connector. The detection switch includes a housing, a shell, a card receiving passageway, and a detection switch. The shell is disposed on and covers the housing. The card receiving passageway is arranged between the housing and the shell. The detection switch detects when the card is inserted into the card receiving passageway and disposed along a side of the card connector. The detection switch includes a fixed contact secured to the housing, and a movable contact extending from the shell and configured to (1) contact the fixed contact when the card is not inserted in the card receiving passageway and (2) release from contact with the fixed contact when the card is inserted into the card receiving passageway. |
| US08465307B2 |
Power supply unit with replaceable plug
The instant disclosure relates to a power supply unit that is compatible with different plug types and can be plugged to the power outlet at different directions. The power supply unit comprises a main body and a plug. The plug can be assembled to and connected electrically with the main body with ease. The power supply unit can be used more broadly in different regions and provide more options when plugging to the power outlet. |
| US08465303B2 |
Electrical coupling system for an electrical charging device
The invention relates to an electrical coupling system for an electrical charging device having energy storage means of an electrically driven motor vehicle, characterized in that it comprises a support that can be plugged into a recess made in the floor, at least two electrically conducting plates in the support, the plates being electrically connected to the charging device, movement means, capable of moving the plates between a retracted position and an exposed position on the ground, and at least one protective element intended to cover the recess in which the plug-in support is housed when the plates have been retracted. |
| US08465301B2 |
Electrical receptacle for outward facing ground plugs
A multiplex electrical receptacle adapted for receiving at least a pair of power cords, such that the ground prongs of the power cords are directed outward from the center of the multiplex electrical receptacle in a “grounds out” configuration. The electrical receptacle of this invention includes an electrical outlet receptacle having a receptacle body, a conductive mounting strap, a conductive live blade receiving assembly, a conductive neutral blade receiving assembly, and a non-conductive housing. |
| US08465299B2 |
Receptacle connector with support structure
An electrical connector comprises a housing, a plurality of first, second and third terminals and a shield fitting over an exterior of the housing. The housing comprises a base and a tongue with a front end; the base is provided with a base wall and an assembly slot that receives the tongue. The tongue can include a U-shaped flange that mates to the assembly slot and extends convexly forward from the base wall to support the posterior of the tongue. Each first terminal is provided with an elastic contact which is exposed on the top surface. Each second terminal is provided with a second contact exposed on the top surface and closer to the front end of the tongue than the elastic contacts. Each third terminal is provided with a third contact that is exposed on the bottom surface. |
| US08465298B2 |
Board-to-board connector
A board-to-board connector comprises a first connector (1) and a second connector (101). The first connector has first terminals (61) and a first housing (11), which has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The first housing is provided with concave insertion portions and first reinforcing brackets (51), which are arranged in the concave insertion portions. The second connector has second terminals (161) configured to make contact with the first terminals, and a second housing (111) which has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The second housing is provided with convex insertion portions (122) configured to be inserted in the concave insertion portions, and second reinforcing brackets (151) arranged in the convex insertion portions and configured to engage with the first reinforcing brackets. |
| US08465296B1 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulating housing, a plurality of probe pins assembled in the insulating housing, a magnetic block and a metal shell. The insulating housing has a base and a tongue extending frontward from a front of the base. The magnetic block has an inserting hole penetrating longitudinally therethrough and matched with the tongue of the insulating housing. The metal shell includes a first metal shell and a second metal shell. The first metal shell is assembled rearward through the tongue to enclose the base, and the magnetic block sheathes the tongue in the inserting hole. The second metal shell covers a front of the magnetic block and defines a positioning window for positioning a front end of the tongue therein. The second metal shell and the first metal shell are buckled and electrically connected with each other to clamp the magnetic block therebetween. |
| US08465293B2 |
Medical training device
A medical training device with an improved clam shell type torso arrangement. An improved two-piece tiltable head feature, including mechanical mounting structure for secure attachment of an improved lung bag or face shield. The head also includes an improved nose feature to provide a more realistic representation of nasal cartilage, and an improved neck assembly. Additionally, an electro-mechanical indicator device is provided to show real time feedback of the CPR compression rate being administered by a student on the training manikin of the present application. The feedback by the device may be provided preferably by visual indicators, but may also have, or alternatively have, audio indicators or signals, such as words or sounds, to indicate whether or not the student is compressing within the preferred rate range, and/or the degree of variance in the student's compression sequences. |
| US08465288B1 |
Student profile grading system
The invention relates to a method and means of grading students. This invention is a software application utilizing profiling techniques that when combined or imbedded with available knowledge on the human learning experience will individually evaluate each student based on their current ability and capacity to learn, by subject. Student's tests are graded electronically against their personal ability and capability profile for grade. The profile system software is applicable to many learning situations requiring a measured outcome. |
| US08465284B2 |
Dental methods, compositions, and kits including acid-sensitive dyes
Methods and compositions including an aqueous liquid that includes an acid-sensitive dye are disclosed for use in dental and orthodontic procedures. The aqueous liquid can be useful for providing a visible color change to indicate contact with acidic materials including, for example, etching compositions, self-etching adhesives, and self-adhesive compositions. |
| US08465283B2 |
Dental implant
The invention provides dental implants for fixed and removable prosthetic devices, and for other devices such as orthodontic devices, and has application to single tooth replacement, e.g., caps and crowns, and multiple tooth replacement using one or more implants, e.g., bridges, and multiple implants for full and partial prosthetic devices. Dental implants according to embodiments of the invention comprise a post or posts inserted into the jawbone and a base that is loaded, in the general area of the gum line, against the jawbone using the post or posts. According to some embodiments, the base is secured to each post, loaded against the jawbone, by a fastener system. |
| US08465273B2 |
Molding device for forming compact lens barrel
A molding device for forming a compact lens barrel includes a first mold part and a second mold part. The first mold part includes a generally cylindrical molding recess with an opening defined at an end thereof. The first mold part has a bottom surface facing toward the opening. A first protrusion is formed on the bottom surface. The first protrusion has a round, first top surface. The second mold part includes a core insert and a second protrusion formed on the core insert. The second protrusion has a round, second top surface. The second mold part is received in the molding recess with the second top surface contacting the first top surface. An annular surface portion of one of the first top surface and the second top surface is exposed. The annular surface portion has a width equal to or less than 0.005 mm. |
| US08465272B2 |
Apparatus and methods for fabricating food items
Apparatus and methods for fabricating food items include extruding a first hot plastic food mass through multiple passages (14) and co-extruding a second hot plastic food mass through a feed stem (22) received in each of the multiple passages (14) and through nozzles (42). Each nozzle (42) includes a first portion (42b) in communication with the feed stem (22) but not the passage (14) and a second portion (42a) in communication with the passage (16) but not the feed stem (22). The nozzles (42) are rotatable in gearing relation with the drive gear (70) of a servomotor (72). The co-extruded ropes are conveyed at a linear speed rate less than or equal to the discharge speed from the nozzles (42), cooled, and cut into individual pieces in the form of peelably separable strands. |
| US08465270B2 |
Injection mold
An injection mold for molding an electronic product which has a terminal includes a movable mold, a first sliding block levelly defining a through-hole, a second sliding block, a supporting pole and a stationary mold. A top of the movable mold defines an opening of which a bottom defines a fastening hole for fastening a bottom of the terminal therein. An inner sidewall of the second sliding block defines a groove for restraining a top of the terminal. The first and second sliding blocks are located at two opposite sides of the opening to together define a cavity for molding the electronic product. The supporting pole is movably inserted in the through-hole and stretches into the cavity to resist against the top of the terminal. The stationary mold is positioned on the first and second sliding blocks, and defines a sprue channel connected with the cavity. |
| US08465269B2 |
Dry vacuum pump including a lubricating fluid sealing device and a centrifuge element equipping such a device
The invention pertains to a dry vacuum pump comprising at least one rotating shaft (11) mounted on at least one lubricated bearing (5) and at least one sealing device (9) for sealing off lubricating fluids capable of entering the shaft passage from said bearing (5), said sealing device (9) being installed between the lubricated bearing (5) and a dry pumping stage (7), characterized in that said sealing device (9) comprises a centrifuge element (17) designed to rotate in unison on said shaft (11) and comprising at least one through line (19) capable of separating the lubricating fluids from the fluid that may travel from said bearing (5) to the dry pumping stage (7). |
| US08465268B2 |
Compression clamp for a modular fluid end for a multiplex plunger pump
A modular fluid end for a multiplex plunger pump, each module machined from a single-piece steel forging with a plunger bore intersected by a linear suction/discharge bore and pumped fluid is discharged straight out through a top of the module into a discharge manifold made up using 1502 frac iron components. A compression clamp applies a crush load to opposed sides of the modules to extend service life. |
| US08465262B2 |
Speed control
Embodiments of the invention provide a pumping system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user. The pumping system includes a pump, a variable speed motor, a memory, and a controller. The pumping system includes a user interface with a first speed button, a second speed button, an increase button, and a decrease button. The buttons provide an actuate and release operation, a first touch and hold operation, and a second touch and hold operation. The controller operates the variable speed motor at a substantially constant speed based on a current speed value selected by the user using the buttons. |
| US08465258B2 |
Platform seal in a turbomachine rotor, method for improving the seal between a platform and a turbomachine blade
An elastomer material seal for an interleaved platform between two adjacent blades in a turbomachine rotor is disclosed. The seal is of elongate shape and includes transversely a contact part, an attachment part, and a flexible part between the attachment part and the contact part. The seal is noteworthy in that it further includes a local reinforcement of the flexible part, to avoid the tearing that would result from centrifugal forces on the seal. The local reinforcement of the flexible part includes at least one transverse rib on the flexible part. |
| US08465255B2 |
Gas turbine blade and gas turbine having the same
Provided is a gas turbine blade capable of improving the heat-conducting capacity of a serpentine channel. In a gas turbine blade including a serpentine channel in which a plurality of cooling channels, extending from the base end side to the distal end side of the blade, are provided from the leading edge to the trailing edge of the blade, at least two of these cooling channels being connected in a folded manner at the base end or distal end, the serpentine channel is formed such that the channel cross-sectional area becomes sequentially smaller from the cooling channel provided at the extreme upstream side of the serpentine channel to the cooling channel provided at the extreme downstream side. |
| US08465250B2 |
Palletizing system and method
A first layer of items is assembled on a movable conveyor belt on a support platform, and the conveyor belt advances to position the first layer of items above and in registration with a pallet while a second layer of items is assembled behind the first layer. The conveyor belt then stops, and part of the support platform and an associated portion of the conveyor belt retract from beneath the first layer of items, depositing the first layer of items on the pallet, after which the pallet is indexed downward. The retractable portion of the support platform and the associated portion of the conveyor belt then extend to the position above and in registration with the pallet, and the conveyor belt advances during this extension to position the second layer of items above and in registration with the pallet. Apparatus for placing slip sheets onto pallets is also described. |
| US08465246B2 |
Roll off hoist with hinged end portion
A container handling system and method for a wheeled transport vehicle is disclosed that is capable of loading and unloading containers, particularly in locations where the overhead height is limited. A hinged tail member at the rear end of the elongated body (a/k/a tilt frame member) is rotated to the ground allowing the containers to be loaded and unloaded without rotating the tilt frame to its maximum height. A cable reeving arrangement, such as a dual reeving arrangement, can be utilized to load and unload the container. |
| US08465244B2 |
Distribution system
A transfer method (100) is disclosed. It includes: transporting (102) with a motorized vehicle a container on a chassis and aligning the container with a buffer; raising (104) the container with a support structure comprising an elevator connected to the chassis, from a resting position to a lifted position a predetermined height above the chassis; entering (106) a containment cavity of the buffer while in the lifted position, the buffer including a container stand including shelves located on sides on the containment cavity, to allow travel in and out of the containment cavity, the shelves include movable support pads with a retracted position configured to allow unobstructed travel in and out of the containment cavity and an extended position configured to support a container with the movable support pads on the sides on the containment cavity. |
| US08465242B2 |
Fastener for strut channel
A self-contained fastener is provided for attaching to a structure having opposing edges that flank a cavity across a gap. The fastener includes a grip member, a clamp member and a latch member. The grip member has a knob and an inner annulus disposed thereon along an axis of symmetry. The knob has a central through-hole coaxial with the inner annulus. The inner annulus has an arc tab that radially protrudes therefrom. The clamp member includes a boss and an outer annulus disposed thereon. The boss has first and second dimensions perpendicular to the axis, the first dimension being shorter than the gap. The clamp member is flanked by opposing ledges along the second dimension. Each ledge is arranged to engage a respective edge of the structure. The inner annulus is coaxially insertable into the outer annulus. The latch member includes a stud and a flange. The stud is insertable at a proximal end into the inner annulus and the through-hole. The flange is disposed at a distal end of the stud and has a third dimension shorter than the gap. The flange and the block can be inserted into the cavity along the respective third and first dimensions through the gap. In response to clockwise turning, the knob rotates the tab within the angular notch until inhibited by the outer annulus, whereby the proximal end of the stud retracts into the through-hole, thereby engaging the fastener to the structure. |
| US08465241B2 |
Composite fasteners containing multiple reinforcing fiber types
A method for making composite fasteners includes the provision of a mold containing an elongated cavity having a long axis and the shape of the fastener body, an elongated insert comprising a plurality of long, interwoven or intermingled first reinforcing fibers, and a hardenable liquid matrix that may include a plurality of short, second reinforcing fibers suspended therein. The insert is placed in the cavity such that the long reinforcing fibers are disposed generally parallel to the long axis of the cavity. The mold cavity is then filled with the liquid matrix such that the short reinforcing fibers are distributed generally uniformly throughout the mold cavity, and the liquid matrix of the suspension is then hardened so as to form a hardened fastener body encapsulating the first and second reinforcing fibers. The molded fastener is then removed from the mold, either for immediate use or for subsequent processing. |
| US08465240B2 |
Advanced nut and bolt
A vibration resistant fastening system including a high fatigue strength bolt made from a first material and a nut made from a second material that is softer than the first material of the bolt. The bolt includes bolt threads and the nut includes pre-tapped nut threads that match with the bolt threads. The fastening system utilizes a combination of unique geometry of the nut and bolt threads and a hardness differential between the nut and bolt to provide vibration resistance. When tightened, crests of the bolt threads embed into the soft bearing flanks of the nut threads. Simultaneously with the bolt crest embedment, the softer nut thread crests flow radially inward into the root radius of the bolt threads. This complete contact between the nut and the bolt restricts the nut from moving in a transverse direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the bolt. |
| US08465235B2 |
Apparatus and method for forming annular grooves on the outer surface of a cable or tube
The present invention provides an apparatus (100) for forming circumferential grooves (14) in the exterior surface of a linear member (10), such as a tube. The grooves are formed by rotating a cylindrical cutting element (120) around the tube such that cutting means in the cylindrical cutting element form the grooves. One rotation of the cylindrical cutting element causes multiple grooves to be formed in the surface of the tubes. |
| US08465226B2 |
Culvert end
A culvert end for a culvert includes a culvert body and a brow. The culvert body has an upper section and an outer end that defines an opening. One or more structural weaknesses are formed in the culvert body. The one or more structural weaknesses are configured and arranged to encourage a partial collapse of the upper section of the culvert body when the culvert end is subjected to a sudden end-on force caused by a vehicle impacting against the outer end of the culvert body, thereby creating a transitioning surface that enables the impacting vehicle to ride over the outer end of the culvert body. The brow is formed at the outer end of the culvert body and configured to initiate the partial collapse of the upper section when the brow is struck by the impacting vehicle. |
| US08465225B2 |
Asphalt recycler and heat management apparatus
The present invention generally relates to a portable asphalt recycling and asphalt heat management apparatus comprising a seamless vacuum-formed one-piece combustion chamber that defines a fuel incubator disposed therein. A heat accumulator is operably coupled to the combustion chamber and a hopper assembly is operably coupled to the heat accumulator. The apparatus further comprises a heat distribution system in communication with the heat accumulator and the hopper assembly to provide heat the to the hopper assembly for recycling used asphalt or for maintaining a mixture of asphalt for use in asphalt repairs. |
| US08465222B1 |
Load transfer apparatus for cast-in-place concrete slabs
A tapered dowel bar for transferring loads across a joint between adjacent concrete slabs is disclosed. The dowel tapers from one relatively wide cross section into one or more relatively narrow ends. The shape of the dowel is optimized to provide the highest amount of steel along the joint where the loads are highest. The tapered dowel is embedded in one or both sides into a socket assembly that connects the dowel to essentially planar top and bottom surfaces of a pocket former embedded in the concrete. The load transfer assembly restricts any relative vertical displacement between the first and second slabs. The socket assembly embedded in the pocket former or equipped with compressible material accommodates relative horizontal movement between adjacent slabs in directions essentially parallel and perpendicular to the joint. |
| US08465221B2 |
Server cabinet with guiding fixtures
An exemplary server cabinet includes two brackets defining a space therebetween for receiving servers, and two guiding fixtures respectively engaged with the two brackets. Each bracket defines a latching hole. Each guiding fixture includes a supporting member and a latching member. The supporting member includes a main plate and a supporting arm extending from the main plate towards the space. The latching member includes a resisting plate attached to the main plate and a pivot extending from the resisting plate. A plurality of protrusions extends outwards from an end of the pivot. The latching member is rotated to engage the protrusions with the corresponding bracket at a periphery of the latching hole after the end of the pivot extends through the supporting member and the latching hole of the bracket such that the main plate is sandwiched between the resisting plate and the bracket and attached to the bracket. |
| US08465216B2 |
Camera mounting assembly
An apparatus for mounting a recording device onto a preexisting sex toy is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus allows a camera mounting enclosure that is connected to a swiveling member that can be rotated upside down so that a standard digital camera can be mounted onto a screw embedded in the camera mounting enclosure. In other embodiments, a pair of gripper arms mounted onto the camera mounting enclosure can be adjusted to different widths that allows for camera phones to be securely held. The gripper arms can also secure an adapter that allows for a web cam to be mounted onto the adapter. |
| US08465214B2 |
Arrangement comprising an electrical conductor track carrier and an optoelectronic component, and a method for producing such an arrangement
An arrangement including an electrical conductor track carrier and a component applied on the conductor track carrier. The component is a fiber-optoelectronic component and has: a housing, at least one electro-optical or optoelectronic component, at least one fiber-optic interface connected to the electro-optical or optoelectronic component, and at least one electrical interface for connecting the component on the conductor track carrier. The electrical interface has at least one bent electrical soldering connection element which is attached by one end to a base connection section of the housing base and extends from there laterally toward the outside so that the other end of the soldering connection element projects laterally and is soldered laterally outside the outer housing contour on the conductor track carrier. The soldering connection element is bent away from the base connection section so that the base connection section is at a distance from the conductor track carrier. |
| US08465212B2 |
Connector cover for outside plant applications
Certain embodiments of the invention may include apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing a connector cover for outside plant application. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a connector cover assembly is provided. The assembly can include an elongated hollow cylindrical cover having a closed first end, and open second end. The assembly includes a plug comprising an elastomeric material and having a plug first end, a plug second end, a bore extending through the plug from the plug first end to the plug second end, and a cover mating surface adjacent to the plug first end. The cover mating surface is operable to slidingly engage the cover, and the plug is operable to surround and slidingly engage optical fiber cordage extending through the bore. |
| US08465207B2 |
Auxiliary bearing system with oil reservoir for magnetically supported rotor system
An auxiliary bearing including a bearing mount disposed circumferentially about a shaft. A support wall may extend radially inward from the bearing mount, and the support wall may define a first annular cavity. An outer race may be coupled to a radially inner surface of the support wall. An inner race may be rotatably coupled to the outer race, and a plurality of rolling elements may be disposed between the inner and outer races. A pool of lubricant may be disposed within the first annular cavity, and at least a lowermost one of the plurality of rolling elements may be at least partially disposed in the pool. |
| US08465204B2 |
Biopsy apparatus, phantom, spatial range measuring apparatus, and spatial range measuring method
A biopsy apparatus includes a biopsy needle for insertion into an object to be examined in order to sample tissue of a biopsy region in the object, and a spatial range measuring section, which measures a spatial range within which the biopsy needle is capable of sampling the tissue of the biopsy region, based on an image of a phantom that simulates the object, which is captured after the biopsy needle has been inserted into the phantom and a portion of the phantom has been extracted. |
| US08465202B2 |
Microstructured sensor for the detection of IR radiation
A microstructured sensor for detecting IR radiation includes: one measuring channel having a measuring diaphragm, on which a first sensitive detector surface is implemented for the absorption of a first IR radiation; and one reference channel having a reference diaphragm, on which a second sensitive detector surface is implemented for the absorption of a second IR radiation. A measuring structure, e.g., a thermopile measuring structure as a series circuit made of thermocouple pairs, is implemented between the measuring diaphragm and the reference diaphragm for measuring a temperature differential between the measuring diaphragm and the reference diaphragm. First and second thermal contacts lie alternately on the two diaphragms. |
| US08465201B2 |
Electro-magnetic radiation detector
According to certain embodiments, an electro-magnetic radiation detector includes a sensor coupled to multiple nanostructures and an electro-magnetic radiation indicating device. The nanostructures are adapted to absorb electro-magnetic energy and generate heat according to the absorbed electro-magnetic energy. The sensor is adapted to measure the heat generated by the plurality of nanostructures and to generate a first signal according to the measured heat. The electro-magnetic radiation indicating device is operable to receive the signal from the sensor and indicate a level of electro-magnetic energy absorbed by the plurality of nanostructures according to the received signal. |
| US08465198B2 |
System and process for inhibitor injection
A method for introducing inhibitor into a fluid to be treated, the method including forming a dispersion comprising droplets, particles, or gas bubbles of inhibitor dispersed in a continuous phase of a carrier, wherein forming the dispersion comprises subjecting a mixture of the inhibitor and the carrier to a shear rate of greater than about 20,000 s−1; and using at least a portion of the dispersion to inhibit corrosion. |
| US08465190B2 |
Total internal reflective (TIR) optic light assembly
A total internal reflective (TIR) optic light bar includes a body having a first end portion that extends to a second end portion through an elongated intermediate portion. The body includes a light input surface having a curvilinear profile, a total internal reflective (TIR) surface, and at least one light output surface. The light input surface, TIR surface, and at least one light output surface defining a continuous outer surface of the body. |
| US08465187B2 |
Light module for a motor vehicle headlamp
The invention relates to a light module (23) for a motor vehicle headlight (2), for generating an adaptive light distribution. The light module (23) comprises a light source (30, 70, 71) for emitting light, a primary optical element (31, 73, 74) for focusing the emitted light, and a diaphragm arrangement (32, 32′) for implementing a variable effective upper edge (36, 36′), which can be introduced into a beam path of the emitted and/or focused light. To provide a simple and cost effective way to improve the visibility of the driver of the motor vehicle (1), but not result in a glare to other road users, it is proposed that the diaphragm arrangement (32, 32′) is designed to implement an effective upper edge (36, 36′) is formed, which brings about the generation of a lower beam light distribution (10) with substantially horizontal light-dark boundary (13) and with an illuminated region (14) formed at a specific horizontal position above the light-dark boundary (13), which region is delimited on the right-hand side and on the left-hand side by light-dark boundaries and has an extent in the horizontal and vertical directions of in each case a few angular degrees on a measuring screen arranged at a distance in front of the headlamp (2). By pivoting the light module (23) horizontally the light can be directed precisely, the illuminated region (14) can be moved in the horizontal direction onto detected objects in a front of the vehicle (1). |
| US08465185B2 |
Vehicle exterior lamp
A vehicle lamp assembly is provided with a housing adapted to be mounted to a vehicle exterior. First and second light pipes are provided in the housing and each has a profile offset from one another. First and second light sources are provided in the housing for illuminating the first and second light pipes respectively. The first and second light pipes also have different depths. |
| US08465182B1 |
Apparatus and method for retro-fitting a recessed light fixture into an existing ceiling mounted assembly or penetration
A recessed light fixture has a plurality of fasteners for securing a can or top hat of the recessed light fixture to a substrate, e.g., sheetrock ceiling and/or open frame mounting plate. Each of the plurality of fasteners comprise a clevis bracket, a clevis hook having perpendicular tabs that rotatably attach the clevis hook to the clevis bracket. When the recessed light fixture is inserted into an opening of the substrate, the clevis hooks rotate out of the way into slots in a wall of the recessed light fixture can. Once the clevis hooks clear the substrate, the clevis hooks rotate back through the wall of the recessed light fixture can. Then the clevis brackets are slideably moved toward the substrate, whereby gripping portions of the clevis hooks will engage the substrate and thereby hold the recessed light fixture to the substrate. |
| US08465180B2 |
Optical element for asymmetric light distribution
The present invention relates to an optical element (2) for collimating light from a light source (3), said optical element (2) having an in-coupling side (5) arranged to receive said light, an out-coupling side (6) arranged to allow for emission of collimated light, and an element body extending from said in-coupling side (5) to said out-coupling side (6), the element body having a cross-section perpendicular to an optical axis (z) defined by an x-5 axis and a y-axis being perpendicular to each other, wherein said optical element (2) has an x-curvature along said x-axis and a y-curvature along said y-axis, said y-curvature being greater than said x-curvature, thereby enabling for a light distribution of said collimated light emitted from said out-coupling side (6) to have a cross-section of an asymmetric shape (CE) perpendicular to said optical axis (z). The present invention also relates to a lighting system (1) comprising such an optical element (2). An advantage with the present invention is that it may provide asymmetric light distribution with an increased beam-width difference in two perpendicular viewing directions. |
| US08465171B2 |
Headlamp and vehicle infrared night vision apparatus employing the headlamp as light source
A headlamp is provided, which has lower power consumption, a longer service life and a more compact size and yet is capable of easily projecting visible light and near infrared light in desired light distribution patterns. The headlamp includes a wavelength converting member and an excitation light source. The wavelength converting member includes a visible light fluorescent material which is excited by excitation light emitted from the excitation light source to emit visible light, and a near infrared fluorescent material which is excited by the excitation light emitted from the excitation light source to emit near infrared light. The visible light and the excitation light are mixed together to generate white light. The excitation light source is a semiconductor solid-state element. |
| US08465169B2 |
Driving shaft mechanism for ratchet wrench
A driving shaft mechanism for a ratchet wrench is disclosed. The driving shaft mechanism is built as a spindle assembly of the ratchet wrench and has a lighting device for offering direct lighting to an operating area of the ratchet wrench. The spindle assembly prevents the lighting from being accidentally turned off when a user operates the ratchet wrench by virtue of screwing or unscrewing motions between a spindle cap and a containing part so as to allow the spindle cap to movably press on or depart from a switch controlling a switching circuit electrically connected with a lamp, and further to create a close circuit or an open circuit of the switching circuit, thus turning on or off the lamp. |
| US08465168B2 |
Lighting unit and display provided with the same
This lighting unit can control luminance in a plurality of block areas independently, and minimize luminance unevenness caused by discretely arrayed light sources, with a reduced number of parts. The lighting unit comprises: a light guide plate having a first and a second grooves formed therein; a first light source group accommodated in the first groove; and a second light source group accommodated in the second groove; the light guide plate having a first light mixing area, a first light emitting area and a second light mixing area; in the first light mixing area, the thickness of the light guide plate progressively increasing away from the first light source group; in the second light mixing area, the thickness of the light guide plate progressively increasing away from the second light source group; and in the first light emitting area, the light guide plate being flat-plate-like. |
| US08465167B2 |
Color conversion occlusion and associated methods
A light converting device is described for receiving source light within a source wavelength range, converting the source light into a converted light, and reflecting the converted light to a desired output direction. The lighting device may use a color conversion occlusion to receive the source light and reflect a converted light in the desired output direction. The converted light may be intermediately reflected by the enclosure as it is directed in the desired output direction. |
| US08465166B2 |
White emitting light source and luminescent material with improved colour stability
The invention relates to a white emitting light source with an improved luminescent material of the formula (AEN2/3)*b (MN)*c (SiN4/3)*d1 CeO3/2*d2 EuO*x SiO2*y AlO3/2 wherein AE is an alkaline earth metal chosen of the group of Ca, Mg, Sr and Ba or mixtures thereof and M is a trivalent element chosen of the group of Al, B, Ga, Sc with d1>10*d2. In combination with a UV to blue light generating device this material leads to an improved light quality and stability, especially an improved temperature stability for a wide range of applications. |
| US08465164B2 |
Mirror assembly including foam encompassed within a polymer matrix
A mirror includes a first layer including reflective material to reflect incident light, an adhesive backing disposed at a rear of the first layer, a second layer connected to the adhesive backing and including one or more layers of a cloth or a non woven fiber matrix and polymer composite to encompass the cloth other non woven fiber matrix and a third layer disposed at a rear of the second layer and including polystyrene foam spheres encompassed within a polymer matrix. |
| US08465163B2 |
Interior rearview mirror system
An interior rearview mirror system for a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having compass circuitry having a multi-axis sensor and associated circuitry. At least a portion of the compass circuitry is established on a semiconductor substrate using CMOS technology. The multi-axis sensor comprises at least first and second magnetoresponsive sensing elements. The magnetoresponsive sensing elements may be disposed in the mirror casing and move in tandem with the mirror casing and the reflective element when the mirror casing is adjusted by the driver of the vehicle. Processing of an algorithm by a microprocessor of the interior rearview mirror system determines a directional heading of the equipped vehicle responsive to a sensing of a magnetic field by the magnetoresponsive sensing elements and automatically compensates for a deviating magnetic field. An information display may display the directional heading of the equipped vehicle. |
| US08465159B2 |
Projector and method of controlling a light source for use with the projector
A projector has a storage unit storing data on a plurality of different light emission patterns each occurring in a period based on a plurality of different-colored lights, wherein each light emission pattern corresponds to a respective one of a plurality of different projection conditions of a color image. An acquiring unit acquires a present projection condition of the color image, and a controller controls a light emission operation of the plurality of different-colored light emitting elements in the period in accordance with data on a light emission pattern corresponding to the present projection condition of the color image. |
| US08465158B2 |
Light source device, projection apparatus, and projection method
A plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements separately emits light of each of a plurality of colors. A reference signal output section outputs a reference signal for each of the plurality of colors. A selection section selects a reference signal for each of the plurality of colors output from the reference signal output section in accordance with a light-emission timing of each of the plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements. An operation control section, provided for each of the plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements, holds an operation value fitted to a light-emitting characteristic of a corresponding semiconductor light-emitting element and converts the reference signal selected by the selection section by an operation. A drive section drives corresponding one of the plurality of semiconductor light-emitting elements on the basis of a signal which has converted by the operation control section. |
| US08465157B2 |
Projection type image display
A projection type image display apparatus for projecting optical fluxes from a light source onto a projection plane so as to display an image, provided with a reflection mirror arranged in such a manner that the reflection mirror interrupts an optical path of the projection light in the direct projection mode when the reflection mode is set and reflects the projection light to the backside of the projection type image display apparatus, and when the reflection mode is set, the projection type image display apparatus is tilted to the backside. The projection type image display apparatus is further provided with an adjustment leg arranged in a front portion of a bottom plane of the projection type image display apparatus and extended by a predetermined leg length, and thereby the projection type image display apparatus is tilted to the backside. |
| US08465154B2 |
Vehicle instrument panel with rear projection system
The present invention relates, generally, to a vehicle dashboard using rear projection system. A vehicle dashboard using rear projection system of the present invention preferably includes: a screen that provides a visual image; a printed circuit board (PCB) that controls the provision of a graphic image to the screen; and an projection system projection system that is controlled by the printed circuit board, and is installed at a rear side of the printed circuit board and irradiates a light to the screen. |
| US08465149B2 |
Spectacles
A pair of rimless spectacles includes two lenses, a frame including two temple units and a bridge, and a connection mechanism. The connection mechanism includes a plurality of first connectors spacedly provided at the lenses at a predetermined location and a plurality of second connectors provided at a predetermined location of each of the temple units and the bridge respectively, wherein the second connectors are coupled with the first connectors respectively to couple the temple units at two outer sides of the lenses respectively and to couple the bridge between two inner sides of the lenses respectively in a tool-less manner. |
| US08465144B2 |
System and method for single pass printing on textiles
Systems and methods are described for printing directly onto textiles including digitally printing an image in a single pass. The systems and methods provide for printing in one pass, thereby reducing distortion from movement of the textile or misalignment of the print head(s). The systems and methods provide for a second print head that may operate as a redundant print head. |
| US08465134B2 |
Image forming apparatus
A liquid container includes a liquid containing member configured to contain liquid to be supplied to a recording head for jetting liquid droplets, the liquid containing member having flexibility; and an outer container configured to accommodate the liquid containing member. The liquid containing member includes a liquid supply opening, and a side of the liquid containing member opposite to the liquid supply opening is fixed to an inner surface of the outer container. |
| US08465129B2 |
Liquid ejection using drop charge and mass
A liquid ejection system ejects a liquid jet through a nozzle. A drop formation device modulates the jet causing portions to break off into drop pairs, including first and second drops, separated on average by a drop pair period, and modulates the jet to cause portions to break off into larger third drops separated on average by the same period. A charging device includes a varying electrical potential source providing a waveform including first and second distinct voltage states and a period equal to the drop formation period. The charging device and the formation device are synchronized to produce first, second, and third charge to mass ratios on the first, second, and third drops, respectively. A deflection device causes the first, second, and third drops to travel along first, second, and third paths, respectively. The first and third charge to mass ratios and paths are substantially the same. |
| US08465128B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus and image forming apparatus
A liquid discharge apparatus includes a liquid discharge head and a circuit board. The liquid jetting head includes a channel unit in which a plurality of nozzles and a plurality of liquid channels communicating with the nozzles respectively are formed, a plurality of drive portions which drive a plurality of deforming portions to deform so as to apply a jetting pressure to a liquid in the liquid channels, a plurality of lead portions arranged to cover the electrodes while maintaining a space between the electrodes and the lead portions, and a plurality of input terminals which are electrically connected to the electrodes via the lead portions. A plurality of connecting terminals which are electrically connected to the input terminals respectively are formed on the circuit board. |
| US08465123B2 |
Waste liquid recovery apparatus and liquid ejecting apparatus
A waste liquid recovery apparatus includes a container body; a liquid absorbing body which is accommodated in the container body and absorbs liquid discharged as a waste liquid; and a sealing member which seals the container body, wherein a first space into which liquid is discharged from a liquid ejecting head and a second space which links with the outside through a ventilation hole formed in the sealing member are formed in a space closed by the container body and the sealing body, and the first space and the second space are connected with each other at the ventilation hole side. |
| US08465108B2 |
Directed performance in motion capture system
Techniques for enhancing the use of a motion capture system are provided. A motion capture system tracks movement and audio inputs from a person in a physical space, and provides the inputs to an application, which displays a virtual space on a display. Bodily movements can be used to define traits of an avatar in the virtual space. The person can be directed to perform the movements by a coaching avatar, or visual or audio cues in the virtual space. The application can respond to the detected movements and voice commands or voice volume of the person to define avatar traits and initiate pre-scripted audio-visual events in the virtual space to provide an entertaining experience. A performance in the virtual space can be captured and played back with automatic modifications, such as alterations to the avatar's voice or appearance, or modifications made by another person. |
| US08465105B2 |
Control system for cutter drum
A work vehicle including an engine and a transmission operatively engaging the engine. The transmission has at least one input shaft and at least one output shaft, wherein a ratio of a rotational speed of the output shaft with respect to a rotational speed of the input shaft may be changed by said transmission. The work vehicle further includes a cutter drum operatively engaging said transmission and a controller, wherein the controller selects the transmission ratio based on an input of a user of the work vehicle. |
| US08465104B2 |
Extraction system for mineral extraction and retaining device for a sensor system therefor
The invention relates to an extraction system for mineral extraction, having a machine frame which is movable along a conveying device and which for each direction of travel, on its front side that, in operation, lies facing a working face, has hewing tools for the minerals to be won, and having a sensor system, disposed on the machine frame, for mineral/host rock recognition. In order to provide an extraction system which can be provided with or used with an improved sensor system, a retaining box for the sensor device is fastened in projecting arrangement to the front side of the machine frame, the retaining box preferably containing a georadar as the sensor system. |
| US08465099B2 |
Seating device
A seating device is proposed for a person sitting in an ergonomic position helpful to relieve pressure on intervertebral disks, which includes a seating surface for supporting the buttocks of the person and where the instep of the person's feet is placed on a foot rest provided. The seating surface is supported by at least one U shaped support which includes a rocker by which the seated person can tilt the seating surface into the most comfortable and ergonomic position. The foot rest is divided into two partial sections which flank the support and which are connected by connecting means so that the rocking motion of the support can proceed unencumbered. |
| US08465096B2 |
Stowable vehicle seat
A stowable vehicle seat includes a seat supporting portion that supports one end portion side of a seat cushion movably in a front-and-rear direction, a seat back that can be folded to a seat cushion through a reclining mechanism, a link mechanism that is connected to the reclining mechanism and is movable, and a strap connected to the reclining mechanism through the link mechanism. The link mechanism has a fourth link member that prohibits return from a moved position to an initial position after movement by the strap, and since an unlocked state of the reclining mechanism is maintained even if a pulling operation of the strap is stopped, the seat back can be reliably folded and stowed. |
| US08465095B2 |
Chair with tiltable back
The chair of the invention includes a cushion, a back and a back support. Either or both of the back and back support are made of a flexible material. The back is perpendicular to the cushion and has an upper connecting portion and a lower connecting portion. The back support is of a substantial L-shape and has an upper end and a protrudent mount. The back support is connected between the cushion and the back for supporting the back. The upper end of the back support fixedly connects with the upper connecting portion, and the protrudent mount movably and pivotally connects with the lower connecting portion, thereby the back support is capable of tilting. |
| US08465094B2 |
Operator seat structure of construction machine
A seat structure for an operator that is set in a cab of a construction machine such as a wheel loader includes: a suspension equipment fixed to a floor frame; a plate-shaped attachment bracket attached on the suspension equipment; a seat and a work equipment console juxtaposed to each other on the attachment bracket. The seat is attached to the attachment bracket via slide rails in a manner slidable back and forth. The work equipment console is also attached to the attachment bracket via a slide rail in a manner slidable back and forth. |
| US08465089B2 |
Rocker moldings for vehicles
A rocker molding for attachment to a rocker panel of a vehicle includes a rocker garnish with an arcuate cross section. A garnish shelf extends from an upper edge of the rocker garnish such that the garnish shelf is substantially perpendicular to the rocker garnish. A riser portion extends from an inboard edge of the garnish shelf in a substantially vertical direction. A cap shelf extends from a top edge of the riser portion in an inboard direction. When the rocker molding is installed on the rocker panel of the vehicle, the garnish shelf extends from the rocker panel in an outboard direction, the riser portion is substantially flush with a skin of a vehicle door when the door is in a closed position, and a bottom edge of the vehicle door is spaced apart from the garnish shelf by at least a height H of the riser portion. |
| US08465086B2 |
Inflatable panels bodywork for automotive vehicles
A bodywork for vehicles including panels made of a deformable material and filled with a pressured fluid. The panels are located on the external sections of the bodywork. |
| US08465085B1 |
Trailer assembly
A trailer assembly includes a platform that has a front edge, a rear edge, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, an upper surface and a lower surface. A pair of wheels is rotatably coupled to the platform and a hitch coupler is attached to and extends forward of the platform. A first housing is fixedly attached to the platform and extends along the first lateral edge. A second housing is pivotally coupled to the first housing. The second housing is positionable in a stored position positioned over the platform extending along the second lateral edge or in a deployed position swung outwardly away from the platform. The first and second housings each haves a plurality of compartments therein for storing tools and automotive parts. |
| US08465081B2 |
Convertible top cover and headliner interconnected by bows
A convertible top having a cover and a headliner interconnected by transverse bows having fore and aft slots that are connected to either the cover or the headliner by flexible welts. A method of making a convertible top with welts that are assembled to the bows by sliding first and second welts lengthwise into fore and aft slots formed on the bows. The bows are assembled to the top stack after the cover and headliner are attached to the bows. One or more bows may include a central portion and two end portions that are assembled to opposite ends of the central portion in a range of predetermined positions. A method is disclosed for making a bow by extruding the central portion of the bow and molding the right and left end portions of the bow in a thixotropic molding process. |
| US08465077B2 |
Adjustable seating assemblies for vehicles
A vehicle having an adjustable seating assembly and related method. One member of the seating assembly may be adjusted to provide a backrest to a straddle type seat of the vehicle. As such, when a carrier bed having an accessory platform is located rearward of the straddle type seat, the one member may optionally be used to provide a wall portion of the carrier bed. The one member may also be adjusted to provide an extension to the straddle type seat. When an accessory platform is located rearward of the straddle type seat, an additional member of the seating assembly may be adjusted to provide a backrest to one or more of the straddle type seat or an extended straddle type seat. The additional member may also be adjusted to form a segment of the accessory platform. |
| US08465075B2 |
Device for investigating the vicinity for a vehicle and method for its production
An armored vehicle has a bottom section which is located on the bottom of the vehicle, at least one armored side section which is located on the side of the vehicle and an armored roof plane which is located on a roof section of the vehicle. In the region of the roof section there is at least one observation position which can be moved in translation by at least one mechanism attached to a carrier, and the observation position is made in one piece and the observation position is made of a transparent material. |
| US08465068B1 |
Grill panel removal tool
A grill panel removal tool includes a handle that has a first end and a second end. A mount is coupled to the second end of the handle and the mount has a first side and a second side. A pair of holding members extends forwardly from the mount. Each holding member has a proximal end relative to the mount that is attached to the mount. Each of the holding members extends outwardly from the mount away from the handle. Each of the holding members has a curved medial section positioned between a distal section relative to the mount and a proximal section extending from the mount. The holding members engage and lift a grill panel that has spaced parallel bars. |
| US08465067B2 |
Integration of vertical adjustability in an electric strike
An electric strike which provides vertical adjustability of the position of the strike relative to the latch bolt in the closure with modification to the doorframe on the dust box. A ramp element in the strike housing is adjustable relative to the strike and is securable at the time of installation to align the center of the latch bolt and strike. The ramp element has a channel to allow entry and exit of a latch bolt having a dead latch. A keeper engages the dead latch and maintains it in a retracted position when the closure is locked and is released when the electric latch solenoid is energized. |
| US08465064B2 |
Vehicle door latching assembly including latch rod decoupling mechanism
A vehicle door latch assembly includes a latch rod coupled to a latch mechanism and operable by a door handle to unlatch the latch mechanism. The latch assembly may include a release clip operably connected to the latch mechanism for releasably connecting the latch rod to the latch mechanism. A latch rod release bracket may be mounted to an inner surface of a vehicle door, and include an extension having a wedge-shaped area adjacent a lower portion thereof engageable with a detent on the release clip to disengage the release clip and thereby release the latch rod during a side impact event. Also provided is a method of releasing a latch rod from a latching mechanism in a vehicle door during a side impact event, with the method using the latch rod release bracket described above. |
| US08465053B2 |
Protective shield
A protective shield for a vehicle is provided. The protective shield may include a plurality of shield panels configured to shield particular areas of a vehicle from damage, and a connecting member that connects the shield panels. The shield panels may be adjustable along a length of the connecting member. The shield panels may each include a planar main body, and at least one opening that extends through the planar main body, configured to receive the connecting member threaded therethrough. At least one magnet may be embedded in the planar main body of the panel shield, configured to magnetically adhere the shield panel to the vehicle. A clasp member may be disposed at each end of the connecting member. The connecting member may extend through each shield panel at least twice. |
| US08465051B2 |
Driver knee bolster of automobile
A driver knee bolster may include a first bracket arranged on a cowl crossbar, wherein an upper portion may be fixed to the cowl crossbar, a second bracket disposed in front of the first bracket, wherein a lower portion of the second bracket may be coupled to a lower portion of the first bracket, and an upper portion of the second bracket may be spaced apart from the upper portion of the first bracket to form a space therebetween, and a buffering member arranged in the space formed between the first and second brackets. |
| US08465045B2 |
Baby carriage
A baby carriage includes a frame and a seat mounted onto the frame. The frame includes a support rack and a pair of handle sets coupled on the support rack. The handle sets have respectively an elevation set and a folding set connected through a flexible member. The elevation set can adjust the height of a handgrip located at the upper end of the handle set. The folding set has an elastic pin and is inserted into the support rack. Through a driving member located on the upper end of the handle set, the latching state between elastic pin and the support rack can be released to rapidly fold and retract the frame. Usability is therefore improved and the folded size can also be reduced. |
| US08465041B2 |
Means for electrically connecting a vehicle electrical system to a trailer
A means for electrically connecting a vehicle electrical system to a trailer is disclosed which automatically connects the same when the hitch of the trailer is mounted on the vehicle hitch. Four different embodiments of the invention are disclosed. |
| US08465037B2 |
Dual steerable vehicle
A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another. |
| US08465036B2 |
Side mounted air spring trailing arm suspension
A suspension includes first and second arms that connect a rigid axle to a frame structure. The first arm has one end configured for connection to a rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to one lateral side of the frame structure. The second arm has one end configured for connection to the rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to an opposite lateral side of the frame structure. The suspension includes a first air spring associated with the first arm and a second air spring associated with the second arm. The first and second air springs are configured to be positioned laterally outboard of the frame structure. |
| US08465034B2 |
Rack bar supporting device of steering apparatus for vehicle
Disclosed is a rack bar supporting device of a rack and pinion type steering apparatus for a vehicle. The disclosed device can prevent free movement from increasing by automatically adjusting a predetermined free movement even when wear occurs in a support yoke after degradation of driving durability of the vehicle, and can prevent a noise from occurring caused by an increase of free movement when the support yoke collides with a yoke plug by an impact reversely input from an uneven road surface, etc. This can provide a comfortable steering feeling to the driver. |
| US08465033B2 |
Three-piece folding scooter
The present invention relates to a three-piece folding scooter whereof the front and rear wheels are fixed on two side bases (b) and (c). Each wheel is hinged to a central base formed from two oblong openings in which the wheels retract respectively when the side bases are folded down flat against the central base. |
| US08465030B2 |
Modular utility cart
A modular utility cart comprising a body defining a door opening; wheels attached to a lower portion of the body for supporting the body; and a door operatively attached to the body and adapted to mate with the door opening, wherein the body is adapted to receive a utility module thereto is provided. A method of assembling a modular utility cart is also provided. A kit of utility cart and utility module(s) is equally provided herein. |
| US08465025B2 |
Gas spring assembly for a vehicle suspension
A vehicle suspension system includes a pump, a gas spring, and an accumulator. The gas spring assembly includes a cylinder, a rod, and a chamber for supporting gas. The rod is coupled to the cylinder and moveable relative to the cylinder. The chamber is formed between the cylinder and the rod, where movement of the rod relative to the cylinder changes the volume of the chamber. The accumulator is configured for receiving, storing, and releasing potential energy from gas of the chamber. The accumulator is coupled to the chamber, and is in gaseous communication with the chamber such that a continuous body of gas extends between the chamber and the accumulator when the accumulator is receiving or releasing the potential energy. |
| US08465022B2 |
Toss card game for simulating sports
A game system for use with an object tossing game board such as a cornhole game board is disclosed for simulating a sport. The game system includes a plurality of playing cards so that one of at least a first player and a second player draws one of the plurality of cards during a player turn, each of the plurality of playing cards having tossing instruction information including identification of an award representing an activity involved in the sport and identification of an attempt number representing a number of tosses in which one of the first player and the second player has to successfully toss the object to the object tossing game board during the player turn to obtain the award. |
| US08465021B2 |
Managing odds bets in a blackjack game
A method of managing a blackjack game is provided. A blackjack game bet comprising a bet against a house entity on a blackjack hand is received from a player. A pair of cards is determined for a hand for the house entity, and another pair of cards is determined for a hand for the player. The odds of the occurrence of one or more subsequent events are determined based at least in part on one or more of the pair of cards selected for the house entity's hand and one or more of the pair of cards selected for the player's hand. The odds for an additional bet are determined based at least on the determined odds for the one or more subsequent events, and the additional bet is offered to the player at the determined odds for the additional bet. |
| US08465018B2 |
Air blowing apparatus and air blowing method with surfaces having curvatures
An air blowing apparatus includes: a paper stack accommodating section which forms a paper stack accommodating space for accommodating a stack of paper; and an air blowing device which blows air toward an edge of each sheet of paper of the stack of paper accommodated in the paper stack accommodating space, wherein the paper stack accommodating section includes a curved surface which faces a paper surface of the stack of paper, and the curved surface extends in an air blowing direction of the air blowing device and has a curvature in a direction perpendicular to the air blowing direction of the air blowing device. |
| US08465011B2 |
Fixing jig and method of processing work
A fixing jig is made up of a plate-like jig main body (2) and a close contact layer (3) which detachably holds a work (W) in close contact therewith. The jig main body has: on one surface thereof a plurality of supporting projections (4) to support the close contact layer; and also has, along an outer peripheral portion of said one surface, a side wall (5) which is of substantially the same height as the supporting projections. The close contact layer is adhered to an end surface of the side wall to thereby define a partitioned space (6) between the close contact layer and the jig main body. By sucking the air within the partitioned space via a ventilation hole (7) formed in the jig main body, the close contact layer is deformed. The work is thus surely supported and fixed also in performing a processing in which a force is applied to the work. The jig main body (2) has formed therein a suction hole (8) which opens into an outer surface on the side of the close contact layer (3) but which is not communicated with the partitioned space (6). A through hole (9) in communication with the suction hole (8) is formed in the close contact layer (3). A suction force is applied to the work W by evacuation of the suction hole (8). |
| US08465009B2 |
Elastomeric pad for a compressible elastomeric spring
A compressible resilient elastomeric pad includes a body defining a central axis, the body formed from a predetermined material and having each of a peripheral side surface, a first axial end and a second axial end, each of the first and second axial ends having a flat surface thereof disposed normal to such central axis. A first raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the first axial end and a second raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the second axial end. A first groove is formed in the flat surface of the first axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the first projection and a second groove is formed in the flat surface of the second axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the second projection. |
| US08465008B2 |
Complex wave spring
A complex wave spring, or Beer Spring™, for electrically coupling opposed electrical contact surfaces or generating a relatively constant force. The spring includes a first wave portion shaped to define a first upward undulation and a first downward undulation, and a second wave portion fixedly arranged relative to the first wave portion. The second wave portion is shaped to define a second upward undulation proximate to the first downward undulation, and a second downward undulation proximate to the first upward undulation. The spring may be formed of electrically conductive material suitable for electrically coupling electrical contact surfaces when the spring is in contact between the surfaces. The complex spring provides unusually constant spring forces over a relatively wide range of compression distances. |
| US08465006B2 |
Separation of a vaporizable component under reduced pressure
The productivity of a combined heat and mass transfer device is improved by directing a flow of a carrier-gas mixture through a fluid flow path in a combined heat and mass transfer device operating at a pressure below atmospheric pressure. Heat and mass are transferred from or to the carrier-gas mixture by a direct or indirect interaction with a liquid composition that includes a vaporizable component (e.g., water) in a liquid state to substantially change the content of the vaporizable component in the carrier-gas mixture via evaporation of the vaporizable component from the liquid composition or via condensation of the vaporizable component from the carrier-gas mixture, producing a flow of carrier-gas mixture having a concentration of the vaporizable component that differs from the concentration of the vaporizable component in the carrier-gas mixture before the heat and mass transfer process. |
| US08465004B1 |
Post removal system
A post removal system having a base plate, a vertical support plate extending upwardly from a top surface of the base plate, and a handle pivotally attached to a top edge of the vertical support plate via a pivot pin, the handle is positioned atop the vertical support plate such that the vertical support plate is at a point between the midpoint and the first end of the handle, the pivot pin is perpendicular to the handle, the handle can pivot upwardly and downwardly about the pivot pin, and a stake gripping component pivotally attached to the first end of the handle via a hinge, the stake gripping component can pivot upwardly and downwardly about the hinge with respect to the handle, the stake gripping component having a slot in a side adjacent to the hinge, wherein the slot is adapted to temporarily accept a stake. |
| US08465000B2 |
Electric motor actuated stop and self-closing check valve
An electric motor actuated stop/check valve for industrial use such as liquid pumping systems which has a controlled opening and closing rate when liquid flow is in a forward direction but closes quickly upon reverse flow of liquid with no action from the electric motor actuator. Actuation of the valve is by an electric motor which provides movement to an actuator rod which contacts the disc stem. The disc stem and the actuator rod are not connected which allows the valve disc and disc stem free movement. No action by the electric motor is required. A spring biasing the valve disc toward the closed position and a hydraulically operated valve closing-speed regulator reduces or eliminates slamming of the valve disc against the valve seat. In a preferred method of operation liquid surge pressure transients are reduced or eliminated and slamming of valve components is prevented. |
| US08464997B2 |
Formwork anchor
A formwork anchor for tight connection of formwork elements comprises a first anchoring portion which can be anchored on a first formwork element, an at least sectionally conical portion, and a second anchoring portion. The at least sectionally conical portion is provided between the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion, and an anchoring element provided to be positioned at the second anchoring portion in a certain anchoring position. The anchoring element can be displaced freely in relation to the second anchoring portion in the longitudinal direction thereof and can be fixed by means of engaging means in relation to the second anchoring portion in the longitudinal direction thereof. |
| US08464996B2 |
Jump form system
A jump form system provided variously with an integral jump shoe lock mechanism, a reversible gang form shear platform, and a pinion lock mechanism for a roll back carriage. The jump shoe lock mechanism includes a lever pivotably mounted to the jump form system frame above a jump shoe bearing portion of a connecting member, a sleeve mounted to the jump form system frame below the jump shoe bearing portion of the connecting member, and a sleeve-mounted safety pin that is mechanically linked to the lever for engagement and disengagement with a jump shoe. The pinion lock mechanism includes a rack and pinion provided on inner and outer portions of a telescoping carriage assembly, respectively, and a lock arm pivotably mounted to the outer portion adjacent to the pinion, with the rack, pinion, and lock arm including complementary teeth which are locked into place upon pivoting engagement of the locking arm. |
| US08464988B1 |
Keyboard instrument stand with concave sides
The present invention features a keyboard instrument stand having concave sides on the main beam. A set of legs is pivotably attached to the sides of the beam, wherein the beam can stably rest on the extended legs. The unique positioning of the legs provide for many advantages, including reduction in rocking of the stand during a performance. |
| US08464987B1 |
Adjustable conduit clamp
An adjustable conduit clamp to secure a conduit to a structure has a clampback and a strap that interfits therewith. The clampback has sidewalls configured to be placed against a structure and a portion of each sidewall configured to support a conduit. A first spacer is positioned between the sidewalls at a first region of the sidewalls and a second spacer positioned between the sidewalls at a second region. A cantilever member extends from the second spacer and is positioned between the first and second sidewalls, the cantilever member having a free end movable relative to the sidewalls and spaced from an end of the first spacer so as to form an opening therebetween for passage of the strap. The strap has a first end portion shaped to contact a conduit and a second end portion dimensioned for passage through the opening in the clampback. |
| US08464985B2 |
Attachment device for elongated member
An attachment device is provided for supporting electrical wiring, communications wiring, and piping having an elongated body with first and second surfaces, opposite faces, and opposite ends. One or more transverse passages extend between the faces permitting passage of wiring and piping therethrough. Mounting passages extending between the first and second surfaces permit securing of the attachment device to a structure using fasteners such as a nails, screws, or bolts. Additionally, adhesives can be located on the second surface for securing the device to a structure. |
| US08464982B2 |
Systems and methods for securing and protecting aircraft line replaceable units with status indicator under a passenger seat
Systems and methods of retrofitting a commercial passenger aircraft with a mounting system that secures and protects a line replaceable unit (LRU) are disclosed. An exemplary embodiment is a mounting system for a regulatory compliant passenger power outlet system. |
| US08464981B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV) recovery system
A UAV recovery system including a recovery cart; a guide mechanism for defining the path of the cart; a base station for capturing a UAV tailhook; a momentum transfer system driven by the inertia of the UAV through the arresting member to move the recovery cart along the guide mechanism away from the base station in the same direction as the UAV; an acceleration control device for converging the speeds and positions of the UAV and cart for enabling engagement of the cart and UAV as their relative speeds approach zero; and a brake system for stopping the recovery cart when the cart and UAV are engaged. Also disclosed is a UAV having a tailhook pivotably mounted on the UAV at the center of gravity of the UAV. |
| US08464978B2 |
Counter-rotational inertial control of rotorcraft
A rotorcraft with two counter-rotating rotors and method for inertially controlling the rotorcraft. The rotorcraft includes a hinged frame configured such that at least one inter-rotor angle of the two counter-rotating rotors is controlled by at least one actuated hinge of the hinged frame and the rotational axes of the two counter-rotating rotors are substantially collinear when the actuated hinge is in a fully open position. The sum of the magnitudes of torque applied to the two counter-rotating rotors is varied to control the lift of the rotorcraft. The difference of the magnitudes of torque applied to the two counter-rotating rotors is varied to control the yaw of the rotorcraft. The at least one inter-rotor angle is varied using the at least one actuated hinge to control the pitch and/or roll of the rotorcraft. |
| US08464976B2 |
Dispenser loading arrangement and method of loading a dispenser
A dispenser for sheet material such as paper towel, having a housing body and a housing cover. A feed mechanism in the dispenser includes a drive roller and a pressure roller forming a nip therebetween. Movement of the housing cover from a closed position towards an open position moves the pressure roller relatively away from the drive roller to open the nip. The reverse occurs during closing the cover. This allows easy access to the space between the rollers when adding a new supply of sheet material or when removing sheet material jams. A method for loading a dispenser is also included. |
| US08464975B2 |
Non-stop unwinding device with limited bulk for rolls of web-like material
An unwinding device (10) is described for unwinding rolls (12, 14) of one-ply or two-ply web-like material (24). The device (10) comprises: a support group for sustaining a first roll (12) and a second roll (14), the support group being composed of a support pin (16) for each roll (12, 14), the support pins (16) being bound on two opposite sides of a vertical column (18) made integral with the base (20) of the unwinding device (10); an unwinding mechanism (22) for each roll (12, 14), adapted to unwind the web-like material (24) from the rolls (12, 14); a joining mechanism (26), adapted to join specific web-like material portions (24) together that respectively come from the first roll (12) and from the second roll (14). One of the support pins (16) is bound to the vertical column (18) at a height (H1), measured with respect to the base (20), that is different from the height (H2) of the second support pin (16) bound on the opposite side of the vertical column (18), so as to limit the thickness of the vertical column (18) along with the width of the unwinding device (10) as much as possible. |
| US08464973B2 |
Granulator mill
A granulator mill has a mill housing with a fixed section and an openable hatch, which is pivotally connected to the fixed section by the intermediary of a first pivot with a vertical pivot axis. The openable hatch has a first part and a second part, which are pivotally connected to one another by the intermediary of a second pivot with a vertical pivot axis. |
| US08464968B2 |
System for the spraying of spray liquid for aircraft windshield, and cockpit provided with such a spraying system
A system for spraying liquid (100) for a windshield (111) of an aircraft including a spray-liquid supply circuit (101), a pressurized-gas supply circuit (102) designed to purge the spray-liquid supply circuit, and at least one nozzle (114) disposed downstream from the circuits and designed to spray the spray liquid and pressurized gas on a windshield, characterized in that the system includes an auxiliary means of compression (107) ready to compress gas designed to circulate in the pressurized-gas supply circuit, the auxiliary means of compression being positioned near the nozzle. Also, an aircraft cockpit provided with at least such a spray system. |
| US08464964B2 |
Mechanical linkages for pivotable fluid effects platform
A fluid effects apparatus for creating a fluid display. The apparatus includes a base with a center point gimbal. A fluid outlet manifold is provided with an inlet for receiving fluid and a nozzle. The fluid outlet manifold is supported on the center point gimbal to pivot with the gimbal. A drive assembly is provided with first and second drive mechanisms that each drive input arms attached to the fluid outlet manifold at an angular offset. Each of the input arms is configured with three pivot points to translate rotational input from a crank arm of the drive mechanism into linear movement, and each input arm includes a first swing arm pivotally coupled to the crank arm, a second swing arm coupled to an end of the first swing arm, and a collar receiving a portion of the fluid outlet manifold and pivotally supported by the second swing arm. |
| US08464958B2 |
Unified IC card
A unified IC card includes: a selection part allowing a user to select at least one of a card applet of various card companies, a financial card applet of various financial companies, a stock card applet of various stock companies, a point card applet of various point issuing entities, and an associated card applet of various affiliated companies; an IC chip part electrically connected with the selection part, the IC chip part storing and sharing card information of the card applet, the financial card applet, stock card applet, point card applet, and associated card applet and providing the card information selected by the user to the outside; and a locking part electrically connected with the selection part to control the operation of the selection part. |
| US08464956B2 |
System and method for security tag deployment using reversible adhesives
A method and system for security tag attachment using a reversible adhesive in which a security tag has an outer surface and an inner volume. The tag includes at least one of an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) element and a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) element disposed within the inner volume. The system also includes a reversible adhesive disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface. |
| US08464953B2 |
Methods and systems for network configuration
Network and device configuration systems and methods are described. In an embodiment, a first user interface configured to receive from a user configuration information regarding a first network provided. Program code stored in computer accessible memory is configured to generate a barcode that includes information related to the first network configuration information, wherein the barcode can be scanned by a device having a barcode scanner and a network interface to configure the network interface to access the first network. |
| US08464951B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring an exit window of a scanner
A method, system, and apparatus for monitoring an exit window of a scanner using a plurality of imaging devices. The method includes capturing a first image through the exit window using a first imaging device, capturing a second image through the exit window using a second different imaging device, and detecting at least one of a plurality of features in both the first and second images. The method further includes matching the plurality of features detected in both the first and the second images, determining whether the at least one matched feature is present on the plane of the exit window, and monitoring a physical condition of the exit window based on the at least one feature. |
| US08464945B2 |
Shopping cart
A shopping cart is disclosed. The shopping cart comprises a frame, a receptacle for holding items and a scanning apparatus for scanning items to be placed within the receptacle. The shopping cart further comprising weighing means for monitoring the weight of the receptacle. |
| US08464943B2 |
Competitive advertising and sales infrastructure
A system for online sales with automatic rebate and coupon redemption provides customers making online purchases to automatically retrieve and redeem all applicable rebates and coupons during an online purchase. Purchase orders from customers are selectively fulfilled and products are shipped to the customers either by the system for online sales with automatic rebate and coupon redemption or by other merchant or manufacturer environments. The system makes purchases from merchants or manufacturers using all applicable coupons and rebates and then sells the products to the customers, passing the savings to them. The system automatically retrieves coupons and rebates for items in a shopping cart during the activity of an online purchase at an electronic mall or an online merchant site and to retrieve manufacturer's and merchant's coupons prior to an online purchasing activity for subsequent submission to an online merchant during a subsequent purchasing activity. |
| US08464942B2 |
Sales promotion system supporting a plurality of differing sellers
An online sales/automatic rebate and coupon redemption system provides online customers automatic retrieval and redemption of all applicable rebates and coupons during purchase. Purchase orders from customers are selectively fulfilled and products are shipped to the customers either by the system for online sales with automatic rebate and coupon redemption or by other merchant or manufacturer environments. The system purchases from merchants using applicable coupons and rebates and then sells the products to the customers, passing the savings to them. The system makes it possible to automatically retrieve coupons and rebates for items in a shopping cart during the activity of an online purchase at an electronic mall or an online merchant site. The system provides coupons to potential customers via email, based on customer profile, geographical information, etc. Manufacturers and merchants can update coupon value and content based on ongoing sales and volume of customer activity. |
| US08464930B2 |
System and method for encoding and decoding data and references to data in machine-readable graphical codes
A system for decoding machine-readable graphical codes is provided. The system includes a graphical code reading device configured to read a graphical code and generate reference encoded source data. The reference encoded source data includes a first reference identifier and a second portion. The system also includes a computing device in electronic communication with the graphical code reading device. The computing device also includes a reference decoder configured to effect conversion of the reference encoded source data into source data. The source data includes first affiliated data in place of the first reference identifier. The first affiliated data may be longer in length than the first reference identifier. The source data also includes the second portion. The computing device also includes a software application configured to use the source data. |
| US08464929B2 |
Store solutions
Disclosed are systems and methods that time correlate input at a point of entry of consumer data of least two identifications for products, prescriptions, vouchers, or codes, uses positive correlation determinations for triggering output of predetermined information. The time correlation of identifications may be used to build a time correlation database, and thereafter use that database for targeted communications. Related inventions include an intelligent Y cable or the like to filter data transmitted from a scanner at a point of entry of consumer data, and a novel POS CS configured to receive bar codes that would otherwise cause the POS CS to enter an error condition.w |
| US08464927B2 |
Processing apparatus fabrication
A processing apparatus that is formed from a plurality of metal layers that are stacked and aligned together and then connected together to form one or more portions of the processing apparatus. |
| US08464924B2 |
Surgical stapling device for performing circular anastomoses
This application is directed to a surgical stapling device for performing circular anastomoses. The surgical stapling device includes a handle portion, an elongated body portion and a head portion including an anvil assembly and a shell assembly. The handle portion includes a rotatable approximation knob for approximating the anvil and shell assemblies and a firing trigger for actuating a firing mechanism for ejecting staples positioned within the shell assembly. The firing trigger forms one link of a two bar linkage provided to actuate the firing mechanism. The anvil assembly includes a tiltable anvil which will tilt automatically after firing of the device and unapproximating the anvil and shell assemblies. The head portion also includes a retractable trocar assembly which is slidably positioned within an anvil retainer and is automatically advanced and retracted upon attachment and detachment of the anvil assembly onto the anvil retainer, and a lockout tube. |
| US08464923B2 |
Surgical stapling devices for forming staples with different formed heights
A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples. |
| US08464921B2 |
Fastener driving tool
A controller controls a first FET to go on and off based on an input signal of a trigger switch and a push switch and controls a second FET to go on and off based on an input signal of a trigger switch, a push switch, and a operation detection switch. The controller then controls the time that the first FET is on for to be longer than the time the second FET is on for. |
| US08464918B1 |
Child resistant closure for unit-dose packaging
A child resistant dispenser that is child resistant without assistance from secondary child resistant packaging. The child resistant dispenser includes a locking mechanism disposed between a cap and a housing and the cap is frangibly coupled to the housing. The child resistant dispenser may be formed of a single material that is suitable for a blow-fill-seal process. |
| US08464916B2 |
Anti-drip cap with an elastically returned mobile cover
The invention relates to a so-called “anti-drip” cap (10) for a flexible bottle (12) including a base (16), in communication with the bottle, covered by a cover (26), including an outlet opening (30), the cover (26) being movable between a bottom blocking position and a top dispensing position, characterized in that the cover (26) is mobile between a first angular position associated with the bottom blocking position and a second angular position, in which the cover (26) is mobile under the pressure of a product feeding the base, between an intermediate position for venting the bottle (12) and the top dispensing position, an elastic return element (38) with a predetermined stiffness being inserted in the second angular position between the cover and the base. |
| US08464908B1 |
Multi-directional fluid dispenser
Presently, when the liquid inside a fluid dispenser (such as a condiment dispenser) is low, a person has to turn the fluid dispenser upside down to cause the fluid to migrate towards the spout for squirting out. The problem associated with having to turn the fluid dispenser upside down is that the fluid can seep through a vent hole and dry up the vent hole when the fluid dries up. The present invention features a fluid dispenser that can dispense a fluid contained therein without having to flip the dispenser upside down to have the fluid migrated to the spout. |
| US08464907B2 |
Level sensors for metering system container
Level sensors for a metering system container are provided that facilitate determining material level within the container despite dusty or damp conditions. In an exemplary embodiment, a material metering system includes a first sensor assembly disposed within a lower portion of the container and a second sensor assembly disposed within an upper portion of the container. Each sensor assembly is configured to output a signal indicative of contact with the material. The material metering system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the first and second sensor assemblies and configured to engage a transfer of material to the container in response to the signal from the first sensor assembly indicative of contact with the material and to disengage the transfer of material to the container in response to the signal from the second sensor assembly indicative of contact with the material. |
| US08464906B2 |
Bag cooler employing a multi-spike adapter and converter
A system for dispensing fluids wherein a support structure holds bulk fluid contained within a bag that is transferred from the bag to an enclosed chamber in a dispensing base, from which chamber the fluid is dispensed, via a puncturing device utilizing multiple spikes. After dispensing air pressure in the enclosed chamber is equalized with the air pressure acting on the bulk fluid by at least one of the spikes. |
| US08464902B2 |
Apparatus and method for pulsed dispensing of liquid
An apparatus and method for pulsed dispensing of liquid. The apparatus includes a syringe body structure communicating with an input passage for pressurized actuation air, and communicating with an exit passage for allowing discharge of the liquid. An air input passage flow air controller is operative to increase the flow rate of the input air in accordance with a relationship that depends at least partially on a reduction of liquid volume in the syringe body structure resulting from a previous pulsed dispensing operation. |
| US08464898B2 |
Moisture-tight edible film dispenser and method thereof
A film dispenser for dispensing individual strips of film comprising a main housing with an integrally attached hinged lid, wherein the housing and lid are one injection molded part that interfaces with a body and, when the closed, the lid creates a moisture tight seal with the main housing, the lid having a flexible arm attached to an underside of the lid, an opening in a topside of the main housing where a portion of the opening acts as a hinge point for the flexible arm, and, when the lid is opened, the arm assists in pushing or pulling the film out of the package; the body that is attached to the main housing to form a moisture tight seal with the main housing; and an indexing finger composed of an elastomer and attached to the underside of the hinged lid, the finger interacts with the flexible arm to dispense the individual strips. |
| US08464891B2 |
Hot/cold container and lid
A hot/cold container and lid is described. The container comprising: a bottom plate; a plurality of inner walls extending substantially perpendicular to said bottom plate, forming a hollow, therebetween; a plurality of outer walls extending substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and substantially parallel to, and spaced from, a corresponding one of the inner walls, the spacing forming a compartment between the inner and outer walls, wherein corresponding ones of the inner and outer walls are attached at selected points between the inner and outer walls to provide at least one substantially uninterrupted compartment, therebetween. The Lid may be of a transparent, semi-transparent or opaque material and may be of a material that operates as a cutting board. |
| US08464888B2 |
Lid of beverage container
Provided is the lid of a beverage container consisting of synthetic resin similarly to the container and constituted in such a manner that a straw can easily run through the lid, and the content, i.e. the beverage, does not leak even if shock is applied. The lid of a beverage container consists entirely of synthetic resin (R), wherein a substantially circular straw sticking region (20) is provided in a part (e.g. the center) of the lid, a plurality of cuts (Hc) having a depth equal to ¼-½ of the thickness of the synthetic resin material are formed in the straw sticking region (20), and the straw sticking region (20) has a diameter of 8.0 mm or less and the cut (Hc) has a length of 3.0 mm or less. |
| US08464884B2 |
Burst pressure support rib
A container assembly having a tank with first and second sides for storing materials under pressure. A plurality of hoop stringers surround each half of the tank and cross one another to define joints. The hoop stringers extend radially outward at various points, including the crossing of the hoop stringers, to increase a cross sectional area of the hoop stringers. |
| US08464882B2 |
Container and venting mechanism assembly
A venting assembly for a closed container having a lid and a container portion with a neck and a rim. The assembly comprises a venting unit having a substantially rigid ring having a lid-interfacing surface; and a resilient annular valve member having a one-way valve disposed at the inner wall of the neck. The assembly further comprises at least one air passageway leading from the ambient atmosphere to the one-way valve member; and a fixing mechanism adapted to prevent planar movement between the venting unit and the container. |
| US08464880B2 |
Storage rack
A rack for holding articles includes a plurality of sets of vertical battens, a plurality of sets of horizontal battens that are clamped together with the plurality of sets of vertical battens, a long connecting screw piece that extends through each set of horizontal and vertical battens, and a supplementary connecting screw that connects the front horizontal batten and the front vertical batten. The screw piece defines a pivot axis for folding the battens. |
| US08464879B2 |
Retail display stand
A display stand for sheet goods such as desk chair mats has a pair of upright side members and a base coupled to the side members. The base can have an upper surface to support a lower edge of sheet goods in a standing position. A protrusion can define an arcuate front lip along the retaining well. The arcuate front lip can be configured to impart a curvature to facilitate standing of the sheet goods. The upper surface of the base can be configured to have different elevations. A back member can be coupled to the upright side members, and can swing, slide, or both, between an open position to provide access to the sheet goods and a closed position to retain the sheet goods within the display. Signage panels can be coupled between the side members along a tie member to attract customers to the displayed goods. |
| US08464878B2 |
Shelving section pivotable between a display and a refill position
The present invention relates to a shelf assembly for products, comprising a shelving section (103) which has a plurality of gravity-feeding shelves (111) and a base plate (105), the underside of which is provided with roller means (117), which are adapted to roll on a base; and a position-fixing means (107) which extends along the base and which is arranged to engage the base. The shelving section (103) is pivotally connected (123) to the position-fixing means (107) and is pivotable between at least one display position, in which the shelves are accessible from the front of the shelving section, and a refill position, in which the shelves are accessible from the rear of the shelving section. |
| US08464874B2 |
Sand cleaning apparatus and method
In general terms, embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses for cleaning, grooming, and otherwise maintaining sand and sandy surfaces. For example, some embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for cleaning a sandy surface, where the sandy surface includes unsifted sand, and where the unsifted sand includes sand and unwanted material. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes: (a) one or more frames; (b) a conveyor carried by the one or more frames and including a first portion and a second portion, where the conveyor is configured to transport the unsifted sand from the first portion towards the second portion; (c) at least one paddle carried by the one or more frames and configured to direct the unsifted sand from the sandy surface towards the conveyor; and (d) a sifter carried by the one or more frames and configured to: (i) receive the unsifted sand from the conveyor; (ii) prevent the unwanted material from passing through the sifter; and (iii) allow the sand to pass through the sifter. |
| US08464873B2 |
Container box and substrate set
A container box for containing a first substrate mounted to a second substrate having a standing wall with a bottom edge includes top and bottom surfaces, first and second side surfaces, and first to third edges along which the bottom and first side surfaces, the bottom and second side surfaces, and the first and second side surfaces contact. If the top surface is opened, the first and second side surfaces are separable. A length of the third edge is substantially equal to a shortest length between the bottom edge and a contact line between the second substrate and the standing wall. The first edge is longer than an edge of the first substrate and a half length of an edge of the second substrate. The second edge is longer than another edge of the first substrate and a half length of another edge of the second substrate. |
| US08464871B2 |
Blank and forming tool for forming a container
A blank for being formed into a container. The blank has a marginal area that includes a plurality of score lines for facilitating forming of the blank into the container. The score lines are positioned to facilitate formation of the container. A forming tool has features to facilitate forming the blank into the container. |
| US08464868B2 |
Toothbrush holder
A cleaning article holder is provided which is capable of fitting within a cabinet drawer and supports in a nonvertical position one or more cleaning articles having a neck that extends between a cleaning head and an elongated handle. |
| US08464859B2 |
Conveyor apparatus for unloading packages from shipping containers
A conveyor apparatus comprising a frame removably connectable to an extendable conveyor and a pivoting conveyor coupled to the frame. The pivoting conveyor includes a slewing conveyor section pivotally coupled to the frame for pivotal movement about a generally vertical axis, and a tiltable conveyor section having one end pivotally coupled to the slewing conveyor section for pivotal movement about a generally horizontal axis and an opposing free end shaped for receiving objects being unloaded from the shipping container. Each section includes a conveying surface for conveying the objects from the free end of the tiltable conveyor section, and toward the extendable conveyor. The free end of the tiltable conveyor section can be moved from side-to-side by pivoting the slewing conveyor section about the vertical axis, and can be moved up and down by pivoting the tiltable conveyor section about the horizontal axis independent of the slewing conveyor section. |
| US08464858B2 |
Conveyor belt scraper and system for the same
A scraper blade has a tip of hard material and a base of resilient material. The base has at least one concave surface on the front side adjacent to the base and may have an additional concave surface on the back side adjacent to the tip. When the blade is urged against a conveyor belt for removing material, a substantial vertical force created by a significant obstruction on the belt will compress the scraper blade and will cause the blade to deform and move away from the belt until the obstruction has passed. A scraper blade system includes the scraper blade and an adjustment block for holding and adjusting the scraper blade against the conveyor belt. |
| US08464852B2 |
Wet clutch
A wet clutch including a main clutch, a clutch basket, which is actively connected to a crankshaft, forming an intake part and having a plurality of discs mounted therein so as to be rotatably fixed and axially displaceable, a clutch hub which is connected to a transmission input shaft, forming an output part and having counter-discs that are layered in an alternating manner with the plurality of discs, where the counter-discs are mounted so as to be rotatably fixed and axially displaceable, and a pilot clutch, actuated by means of a lever element, where the pilot clutch is upstream from the main clutch and the pilot clutch and the main clutch are connected to each other by means of a ramp device which is provided, in the circumferential direction, with ramps that are active at least in the direction of traction of the internal combustion engine. |
| US08464844B2 |
Hydraulic brake lever
A control assembly is mountable to a handlebar. The control assembly features a housing mountable to the handlebar and a brake actuation mechanism including a brake lever pivotally connected to a housing. The brake lever defines a fluid cavity inside the brake lever such that the fluid cavity pivots with the lever relative to the housing. A piston is provided in the fluid cavity and also pivots with the lever relative to the housing. Actuation of the lever causes the piston to move in the fluid cavity to provide compressive force to a fluid. The fluid cavity is in fluid communication with a hydraulic line. |
| US08464842B2 |
Brake wear measurement system and method
A brake measurement system comprising a measurement mechanism for measuring brake wear operatively coupled to a moveable member of a brake assembly is provided. The system further includes a displacement sensor and a visual indicator. The displacement sensor is operatively coupled to the measurement mechanism, wherein movement of the moveable member is converted by the measurement mechanism into a displacement sensed by the displacement sensor. The visual indicator is operatively connected to the measurement mechanism, wherein the visual indicator displays the movement of the moveable member and consequently the wear of the brake stack at a point on the exterior of an aircraft brake housing for inspection. |
| US08464840B2 |
Security-based elevator control to address a security violation involving at least one elevator car at a landing
An exemplary method of controlling a plurality of elevator cars includes determining that there is a security violation condition involving at least one of the elevator cars at a landing. That elevator car is prevented from moving from the landing until the condition is resolved. The other elevator cars are controlled such that they do not provide elevator service to or from the landing until the condition is resolved. |
| US08464835B2 |
Lubricant scoop
A lubricant scoop is disclosed herein. The lubricant scoop comprises an annular body encircling a central axis. The annular body is operable to rotate about the central axis in a first direction. The lubricant scoop also comprises a plurality of lubricant passageways defined in the annular body. Each of the plurality of passageways extends radially inward toward the central axis from respective entry ports to respective exit ports. The lubricant scoop also comprises an entry plenum defined in the annular body. The entry plenum is upstream of and fluidly communicates with each of the plurality of passageways. The entry plenum has an upstream opening operable to receive lubricant from a lubricant spray nozzle. |
| US08464834B2 |
Ladder stabilization device
A convenient ladder stabilization device for holding a ladder in place on a support surface. The device may attach to a lower rung of a ladder and extend and contact the support surface behind the ladder. The device of the present invention acts to secure and stabilize the bottom of the ladder to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding, skidding, or otherwise moving while a user is on the ladder. The present invention further provides for a lightweight and easy to use device that may be removably attached to any conventional ladder. The ladder stabilization device does not require any material alteration to the ladder and thus will not void the warranty of a conventional ladder when used in combination. The present invention improves user safety and reduces the need for having a second individual support the base of the ladder. |
| US08464832B1 |
Length adjusting device having a rotated and elongated eye
A LAD assembly having a cam with engaging teeth rotatably mounted in a housing, the distal end of the cam assembly having an eye with a central opening. An axis passing through the central opening is parallel to parallel planes defined by the inside sides of the housing. This results in an eye that is rotated 90° relative to the eyes of other rope grabs. In addition, the cam assembly may be elongated, thereby placing the eye further from the body than the eyes of prior art rope grab devices. The orientation and optional extension of the eye allows a carabiner or the like attached to the eye to lie in a plane orthogonal to the plane of a carabiner attached to a prior art rope grab device. This, in combination with the extension of the eye away from the body, allows easier access to and operation of the cam assembly by a user. |
| US08464831B2 |
Noise attenuation panel and a gas turbine component comprising a noise attenuation panel
A noise attenuation panel includes a first wall, a second wall and partition walls connected to the first and second walls and defining cells between the first and second walls. The first wall is provided with a plurality of through holes. At least two of the cells are interconnected via a communication hole. One of the through holes leads to a first of the at least two interconnected cells and a second of the interconnected cells is configured to prevent any gas flow through the second cell. |
| US08464825B2 |
Crash attenuator
A crash attenuator for decelerating an impacting vehicle includes a first end that can be releasably secured to a vehicle, and a second end that is longitudinally spaced from the first end. The second end includes an impact member that is movable in the longitudinal direction from a pre-impact position to an impact position. At least a pair of spaced deformable attenuator members extend in a longitudinal direction and have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal ends are staggered downstream from the impact member in the pre-impact position. At least a portion of the deformable attenuator members are bent in a non-outboard direction as the impact member is moved from the pre-impact position to the impact position. |
| US08464821B2 |
Regenerative braking system
A regenerative braking system is provided. The regenerative braking system includes at least one energy storage medium operably connected to a coupler. The coupler is operable to selectively couple and decouple the energy storage medium with a drive train of motor vehicle, or an electric generator, or a combination of both. A control arrangement governs the operation of the coupler. A sensor of the control arrangement is operable to determine information relating to the relative deceleration and acceleration of the motor vehicle and send said information to the controller. The controller is operable to determine the amount of energy storage medium or mediums to be coupled to the drive train via the coupler. |
| US08464818B2 |
Fuel system and vehicle
This invention provides a fuel system and a vehicle that can improve the ease of leak checking. The fuel system includes: a plurality of fuel storages; filling piping that connects the fuel storages to a filling port in parallel; and supply piping that connects the fuel storages to a fuel supply destination in parallel. An integral manifold is formed by integrating a filling manifold part disposed at a branching point of pipes of the filling piping and a supply manifold part disposed at a branching point of pipes of the supply piping with each other. The integral manifold has a leak checking port configured to allow introduction of a fluid for leak checking into the filling piping and the supply piping. |
| US08464816B2 |
All-terrain hostile environment vehicle
A first chassis and second chassis hingedly connects to the first chassis, wherein each of the first and second chassis includes a plurality of wheels which are operably connected to a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor operably connects to an engine which is operably connected to the first chassis. A transmission pump operably interconnects the hydraulic motor and the engine and a flow divider operably interconnects the transmission pump and the hydraulic motor to regulate hydraulic flow to the hydraulic motor. |
| US08464815B2 |
Climbing robot for travelling over adhesive surfaces
A climbing robot for travelling over adhesive surfaces with endless traction mechanisms and, fastened to them at a distance, controllable adhesive feet that circulate with the endless traction mechanisms along guides in the travel plane, by means of which the adhesive sides of their adhesive elements always point towards the travel surface and wherein the adhesive elements that support and move the climbing robot are switched “ON” and lowered onto the adhesive surface and all of the other adhesive elements are switched “OFF” and raised from the adhesive surface. The climbing robot has square running gear, and a foot plate with a guide running around the edges for a multitude of adhesive feet driven by traction mechanisms exists in each of the four corners of the running gear. |
| US08464806B2 |
Fastening tool with depth of drive adjustment
The tool comprises an engine for propelling a piston including a shaft for driving a fastening member into a supporting material and through a pin guide, with means for adjusting the depth of drive of the piston shaft outside the pin guide at the end of the propulsion and at the stop of the piston in abutment against stop means. The pin guide is mounted free in translation and the depth of drive adjusting means comprise an adjustment knurl with a knurl shaft arranged so as to be in abutment against the pin guide and to push the pin guide forwards under the rotation action of the knurl. |
| US08464804B2 |
Robot for machining a part of structure under water
A robot for machining a part of structure under water, comprising a machine tool having a chamber receiving a machining element, a support and guiding structure of the machine tool fixable with respect to the part to be machined and having submersible mobile elements and corresponding submersible guiding elements defining axes along which the mobile elements are movable to position the machine tool with respect to the part to be machined, displacement units for displacement of the mobile elements along the axes, a gas supply connecting to the machine tool to inject gas in the chamber, and a programmable control unit for operating the displacement units and the machine tool based on a closed-loop control mode in order to achieve the machining of the part. |
| US08464803B2 |
DCM having adjustable wear assembly
An adjustable wear assembly for a machine mounting component having a channel is disclosed. The adjustable wear assembly may have a wear insert located within the channel, and an inclined adjustment plate located within the channel in contact with the wear insert. The adjustable wear assembly may also have at least one wedge block located within the channel in contact with the inclined adjustment plate, and a cover connectable to the mounting component to close off a side of the channel. |
| US08464802B2 |
Hydraulic-pneumatic third point connector
A connector for use in as a third point connector for a tractor has a hydraulic and pneumatic chamber for providing an easy method to adjust the length of the third point connector to thereby change the angle between the tractor and an attached implement. When a release valve is opened, the two sides of the connector can be moved towards or away from each other as air enters from the environment or exits as needed to balance the pressure inside the connector. An induced air pocket in the hydraulic chamber allows for a slight cushion against the forces as the incompressible hydraulic fluid prevents larger swings in the length of the connector. One or more of the opposing ends may have threaded connectors to allow for general size changes to the connector. |
| US08464800B2 |
Expandable member for downhole tool
A method of forming a downhole apparatus comprises the steps of providing a body having a longitudinal axis and forming an expanding portion on the body from multiple layers of a partially or substantially cured material around the longitudinal axis of the body. The material is selected to increase in volume on exposure to at least one predetermined fluid, such as a wellbore fluid. Apparatuses formed by the method include wellbore packers. |
| US08464798B2 |
Plunger for performing artificial lift of well fluids
A plunger for removing fluid from a gas producing well has a fluid path through the plunger body, a narrow passageway within the fluid path, and a central orifice at an end of the passageway. The plunger may have a lip within the fluid path spaced above the central orifice. The lip interacts with gas and fluid exiting the central orifice when the plunger is rising within the gas producing well. The plunger may have a bypass valve to allow the plunger to fall while the well is flowing, and may have a central constriction to regulate the rate of falling. |
| US08464797B2 |
Subsea control module with removable section and method
A method for assembling a control module having a fixed part and a removable section. The method includes configuring the fixed part of the control module to be attached to a pressure supply line for receiving a fluid under pressure; providing in the fixed part a valve manifold that houses a hydraulic activated valve; detachably attaching the removable section of the control module to the fixed part; fluidly connecting an electrically activated valve of the removable section to the hydraulic activated valve such that the electrically activated valve controls the hydraulic activated valve; and configuring the electrically activated valve to electrically connect to a control section. |
| US08464796B2 |
Fluid resistivity measurement tool
A downhole tool configured for conveyance within a borehole extending into a subterranean formation, wherein the downhole tool comprises a sensor assembly comprising a housing, a cap coupled to an end of the housing, a flow-line tube disposed within the housing and configured to receive fluid from the formation, a first winding disposed within the housing and configured to induce an electrical current in the fluid, and a second winding disposed within the housing and configured to detect the electrical current induced in the fluid by the first winding. |
| US08464794B2 |
Wellbore laser operations
Methods, systems, and devices related to downhole wellbore operations, such as drilling and completing wells in an earth formation, include a laser device. A first portion of a subterranean formation can be characterized, the first portion being at a first location. A first orientation of an aperture can be selected based on the characteristics of the first portion of the subterranean formation. A laser beam can be used to create the aperture having the first orientation. A second portion of the subterranean formation can be characterized, the second portion being at a second location different from the first location. A second orientation, different from the first orientation, can be selected based on the characteristics of the second portion of the subterranean formation. The laser beam can be moved to the second location and can be used to form the aperture having the second orientation. |
| US08464791B2 |
Arm system for logging a wellbore and method for using same
A method and apparatus for logging a wellbore with an arm system is provided. The arm system has a pad for measuring a downhole parameter and a first arm having an arm first end connected to a tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to the pad. The arm system has a second arm having an arm first end connected to the tool body of the downhole tool and an arm second end connected to the pad. The arm system has a sliding shuffle adapted to allow a portion of the arm system to translate relative to a longitudinal axis of the tool body and a first biasing member wherein the first biasing member and the sliding shuffle are for moving the pad between a closed position proximate the tool body and an engaged position proximate the wellbore wall. |
| US08464789B2 |
Process for enhanced production of heavy oil using microwaves
A process for utilizing microwaves to heat H2O within a subterranean region wherein the heated H2O contacts heavy oil in the subterranean region to lower the viscosity of the heavy oil and improve production of the heavy oil. |
| US08464785B2 |
Pipe guide arms for blind shear rams
A pipe shear ram assembly has a housing having a bore extending vertically therethrough for the passage of a pipe string. Ram blocks have blades positioned such that one slides over the other when the first and second ram blocks are moved toward each other to shear a well pipe. A pair of guide arms extend from one of the rams. The guide arms have tips protruding a greater distance than the blade. Each of the guide arms has an inboard wedge surface beginning at the tip and extending along a line that intersects the longitudinal axis for guiding the pipe string toward a bore axis of the bore in the event the first and second ram blocks are moved to the closed position. |
| US08464783B2 |
Method and arrangement for optimizing heat transfer properties in heat exchange ventilation systems
The present invention relates to a method and arrangement of optimizing the level of anti freeze agent in a heat transfer fluid in a heat exchange system The method comprises determining (305) a wanted level of anti freeze agent at least partly based on the temperature of the media to which the heat exchange system will deliver heat, controlling (310) the current level of the anti freezing agent in the heat transfer fluid. Anti freezing agent is added 315:1 to the heat transfer fluid if the current level is a predetermined amount lower than the wanted level, and removed 315:2 from the heat transfer fluid if the current level is a predetermined amount higher than the wanted level. |
| US08464782B2 |
Manifold fluid communication plate
A communication plate extends along and is sandwiched between cylindrical communication manifolds of a first heat exchanger assembly and a second heat exchanger assembly. The communication plate includes a saddling surface arcuate in one direction and a saddling surface arcuate in the opposite direction for engaging in saddle-like fashion the cylindrical shape of the manifolds. The communication plate defines a plurality of communication plate orifices disposed along the communication plate and aligned co-axial with a plurality of communication orifices disposed along the manifolds to seal the communication orifices of the manifolds and establish distributed and sealed fluid communication between the heat exchanger assemblies. |
| US08464780B2 |
Heat sink with heat pipes and method for manufacturing the same
A heat sink to be used with a heat source can include a base portion and a fin portion. The base portion can include a plurality of heat pipes and a space formed at least partially between adjacent heat pipes. The base portion can also include a first plate thermally connected to the heat source and a second plate thermally connected to the fin portion. The plurality of heat pipes contacts the first plate and the second plate. The plurality of heat pipes can also include a first portion that is closer than a second portion to the heat source. Additionally, a distance between adjacent heat pipes is smaller at the first portion than at the second portion. |
| US08464773B2 |
Tape removal apparatus and process
An apparatus and method is provided for removing a selected portion of tape material from backing paper. One embodiment of an apparatus may include a supply reel, at least one cutting member, at least one bending member, and first and second vacuum rollers. The apparatus may further include pinch rollers, scraping members, and scrap bins. The apparatus may allow for the removal of scrap tape material from the backing paper. |
| US08464767B2 |
Shredder thickness with anti-jitter feature
A shredder includes a housing having a throat for receiving at least one article to be shredded, and a shredder mechanism having a motor and cutter elements. The shredder also includes a detector that is configured to detect a thickness of the at least one article being received by the throat, and a controller that is configured to operate the motor to drive the cutter elements to shred the at least one article and to set a flutter threshold higher than the predetermined maximum thickness threshold, if the detected thickness is less than a predetermined maximum thickness threshold. The controller is also configured to thereafter continuously detect the thickness of the at least one article being inserted into a throat of the shredder; and to perform a predetermined operation responsive to the thickness detector detecting that the thickness of the at least one article is greater than the flutter threshold. |
| US08464765B2 |
Machine for filling bottles with solid forms of pharmaceutical products, in particular capsules, pills, pastilles, and/or tablets
A machine for filling bottles with solid forms of pharmaceutical products is provided with a conveying device for continuously moving forward a sequence of bottles along a given path, and a vibrating distribution plate, which is mounted along the path itself so as to continuously rotate around its own longitudinal axis, and has a plurality of feeding channels, each of which is wound in a helix around and along said longitudinal axis, and is moved forward in phase with a corresponding bottle to feed a given number of solid forms in the bottle itself. |
| US08464760B2 |
Valve unit, reaction apparatus with the same, and method of forming valve in channel
A valve unit, a reaction apparatus with the same, and a method of forming a valve by injecting a valve material into a channel are provided. The valve unit comprises a fluid channel constituting a flow path of a fluid and having a portion containing a first area of a first dimension (“D1”) and a second area of a second dimension (“D2”), wherein D1 |
| US08464759B2 |
Series configured variable flow restrictors for use in a subterranean well
A variable flow resistance system can include a vortex device, with resistance to flow of a fluid composition through the vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at an inlet to the vortex device. Another system can include a second vortex device which receives a fluid composition from an outlet of a first vortex device, a resistance to flow of the fluid composition through the second vortex device being dependent on a rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet. Another system can include a first vortex device which causes increased rotation of a fluid composition at an outlet thereof in response to an increase the fluid composition velocity, and a second vortex device which receives the fluid composition from the outlet, a flow resistance through the second vortex device being dependent on the rotation of the fluid composition at the outlet. |
| US08464758B2 |
Valve system
The invention relates to a valve arrangement with a continuously variable directional control valve, wherein the valve slide thereof can be adjusted in the direction of five positions in order to control a user in two directions, to carry out a quick motion, to switch into a floating position or to close off the pressure means connection to the user (neutral position). |
| US08464756B2 |
Spool valve
A spool valve includes a housing defining a bore that extends along a longitudinal axis. A spool is disposed within the bore and is moveable between a first position for directing a hydraulic fluid along a first flow path and a second position for directing the hydraulic fluid along a second flow path. The spool includes a supply portion disposed between a first land portion and a second land portion. The supply portion includes an outer surface that defines a truncated pseudosphere for smoothly directing the flow of the hydraulic fluid across the surface of the spool. |
| US08464752B2 |
External position indicator of ram blowout preventer
Method and blowout preventer for sealing a well. The blowout preventer includes a body having first and second chambers, the first chamber extending substantially perpendicular to and intersecting the second chamber; a ram block configured to move within the first chamber to seal a first region of the second chamber from a second region of the second chamber; a rod connected to the ram block and configured to extend along the first chamber; a piston connected to the rod and configured to move along and within the first chamber; a bonnet configured to receive the piston, the bonnet being detachably attached to the body; and an indicator device partially mounted outside the bonnet and configured to indicate a physical position of the ram block within the body. |
| US08464748B2 |
Waterway connection
A coupler for a fluid delivery device is disclosed which couples a first waterway component and a second waterway component, the coupler being an overmold component. |
| US08464745B1 |
Constant volume pressure compensator
A pressure equalizer for an underwater vessel can include a pneumatic reservoir and a pressure compensating valve (PCV). The PCV can be in fluid communication with the surrounding underwater environment and the vessel interior, and in selective fluid communication with the reservoir. The PCV can further include a valve body and a valve plug. As the PCV opens, the plug moves within the body to establish a path of fluid communication from the reservoir, through the PCV to the vessel interior, to allow flow of high pressure compressible fluid from the reservoir into the interior to pressurize the vessel interior. As the vessel interior pressure equalizes with the surrounding environment, the plug moves within the body to close the fluid communication path with the reservoir, thereby stopping the flow of compressible fluid into the vessel interior to maintain the equalized pressure. |
| US08464743B2 |
Inline dispersal valves
An inline dispersal valve that can be used with or without a base. One embodiment includes a rotatable member that is rotatable from a fluid stream obstructing condition to an out-of-the-way condition to prevent fluid diversion into the dispersal valve. Another embodiment includes a lever handle for quickly setting the amount of fluid being diverted into the inline dispersal valve. Another embodiment includes an indicator that can be viewed from a position above the inline dispersal valve. Another embodiment includes a cap that can be secured or removed without the aid of tools. Another embodiment includes a clip that allows one to disassemble the inline dispersal valve for servicing. Another embodiment includes a dispensing valve that can be reversed and still properly divert fluid into a dispersant chamber. Another embodiment includes an inline dispersal valve with a bleed valve positioned to allow one to bring the air volume in the dispersant chamber to the proper level. |
| US08464742B2 |
Injection or other system with anti-thermal lockdown mechanism and related method
An apparatus includes a first valve configured to selectively direct material to first and second outlets and a second valve configured to block the second outlet. The first and second valves define a dead space that has a volume between the first and second valves. The apparatus also includes a pressure compensation unit configured to dynamically provide an additional volume for material trapped in the dead space when the trapped material expands. The pressure compensation unit could include a piston configured to move within a space of the pressure compensation unit, where increased pressure in the dead space causes the trapped material to push against the piston in order to provide the additional volume for the trapped material. The pressure compensation unit could further include a spring configured to bias the piston and a seal configured to substantially prevent the trapped material from passing the piston and contacting the spring. |
| US08464739B2 |
Portable barrier
A portable barrier includes a pedestal assembly and a cover assembly. The pedestal assembly includes (i) a plurality of legs that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of legs include a first lateral leg having a first free leg end, and a second lateral leg having a second free leg end, and (ii) a first limiter connected to the first lateral leg and the second lateral leg. The cover assembly including (i) a plurality of arms that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of arms include a first lateral arm having a first free arm end and a second lateral arm having a second free arm end, and (ii) a covering connected to the first lateral arm and the second lateral arm. The portable barrier is configured to be moved between a protection mode and a storage mode. |
| US08464738B2 |
Stake system and method for soft material
Systems, devices and/or methods of a stake system configured to be used in substantially loose material to anchor a stake-down object are provided. In one embodiment, the stake system includes an elongate member and a flexible line. One end of the flexible line is configured to be coupled to a distal portion of the elongate member and is configured to be below an exposed surface of the loose material. The flexible line is sized and configured to cut through the loose material such that at least a portion of the intermediate portion extends tautly away from the elongate member and through the loose material below the exposed surface. With this arrangement, the other end of the flexible line is configured to extend above the loose material and configured to be coupled to the stake-down object. |
| US08464735B2 |
Sprayless surface cleaning wand
An elongated solution injection bar operable in a cleaning system as a combination dry vacuum and fluid carpet cleaner. The elongated solution injection bar having an upper solution distribution and pressure equalization chamber in fluid communication with a lower solution discharge chamber through a solution flow restrictor structured for distributing hot liquid cleaning solution in a substantially uniform flow along substantially the entire length of a cleaning head operating surface. The hot liquid cleaning solution being discharged from the lower solution discharge chamber at a volumetric flow rate of or about 1 gallon per minute (gpm) or less, so that the liquid cleaning solution is discharged to the operating surface as a flood under pressure. |
| US08464729B2 |
Hair styler capable of producing steam
A hair styler capable of producing steam not only can produce steam to assistant the user doing hair style, but also that the hair styler is provided with leak proof members between the respective parts of the hair styler, which can provide better sealing effect and prevent water leakage problems. |
| US08464727B1 |
Smoking article and method
A smoking article provides a purchased, as-built cigar that can be disassembled to form multiple cigars, enabling a consumer to make his or her own cigars using custom tobacco filler. The as-built cigar is capped as part of its construction, preferably at one end or at both ends. A smoker removes the cap or caps to enable smoking of the as-built cigar or disassembly into layers. Each layer can then be rolled with a smoker's custom tobacco. The inner layer contains tobacco filler. Upon disassembly, the inner layer and tobacco filler can be smoked. Alternatively, the inner layer can be pulled apart at a provided serration to discard the tobacco filler and then filled and rolled with a smoker's custom tobacco filler material. |
| US08464718B2 |
Neck flange attachment apparatuses for tracheostomy tubes
Various embodiments of tracheostomy tube assemblies including a cannula and a flange are provided. One of the cannula and the flange includes a pair of slots and the other of the cannula and the flange includes a pair of protrusions adapted to be received by the pair of slots. The pair of slots and the pair of protrusions enable two or more degrees of freedom of movement of the flange with respect to the cannula. |
| US08464716B2 |
Differential air pressure systems
Described herein are various embodiments of differential air pressure systems and methods of using such systems. The differential air pressure system may comprise a chamber configured to receive a portion of a user's lower body and to create an air pressure differential upon the user's body. The differential air pressure system may further comprise a user seal that seal the pressure chamber to the user's body. The height of the user seal may be adjusted to accommodate users with various body heights. |
| US08464712B2 |
Medication inhaler
A medication inhaler comprising an inhaler body, having a medication container chamber for receiving a medication container and an air passage coupling the medication container chamber with exterior air, and a mouthpiece axially engageable with the inhaler body. The mouthpiece has a mouthpiece chamber and a medication delivery needle communicating with the mouthpiece chamber. The needle extends toward the medication container chamber and has an opening for supplying exterior air and medication from an interior cavity of the medication container, accommodated within the medication container chamber, through the needle and to mouthpiece chamber. In the first position, the mouthpiece engages with the inhaler body with such that the needle is spaced from the medication container, and, in the second position, the needle axially traverses the medication container so that the opening in the needle communicates with the air passage and the interior cavity of the medication container to deliver the medication to the patient. The medication inhaler also includes an air bypass which bypasses the needle and supplies supplemental exterior air to the mouthpiece chamber to increase airflow through the medication inhaler. |
| US08464711B2 |
Methods for treating headaches
Apparatus, methods, and kits for treating symptoms associated with common ailments, such as headaches, rhinitis, asthma, epilepsy, nervous disorders and the like, are provided. The apparatus comprises dispensers for carbon dioxide and other therapeutic gases. The methods comprise delivering small volumes of these gases to patients in a manner where the gas infuses into a body region in order to bathe the mucous membranes therein. It has been found that even very short exposure of patients to small volumes and high concentrations of such gases can provide significant relief from symptoms. |
| US08464710B1 |
Device for aiding intubation
A device for aiding intubation of a patient comprising a generally ovular palate bridge having a flexible convex surface to allow the device to conform to a roof of a patient's mouth and a flexible concave surface to allow for space in the mouth for placement of an endotracheal tube or to clear an oral airway which is attached to a teeth guard to prevent dental trauma and an esophageal block to block aspiration from a patient's stomach into a patient's lungs and to prevent erroneous intubation. |
| US08464708B2 |
Pneumostoma management system having a cosmetic and/or protective cover
A pneumostoma management system which includes a pneumostoma management device and a cover. The pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a hydrophobic filter and/or a one-way filter. The cover serves to protect the pneumostoma management device and/or provide a cosmetic skin to make the pneumostoma management device more acceptable to the patient and thereby encourage patient compliance with a pneumostoma treatment regimen. |
| US08464702B2 |
Smoker conversion kit
This invention is to be used primarily to convert a traditional charcoal grill into a multifaceted smoker with wet and dry smoking capabilities. Furthermore, novel racks within the invention allow the user to utilize all of the space within the smoker providing for more food cooked over a given time frame. The invention also included a removal tray allowing access to the fuel and liquid pan with only negligible heat loss and no risk of damage to the contents of the smoker or the surface upon which the smoker is placed when removed from the primary heat source. |
| US08464698B2 |
Air intake assembly with integrated crankcase ventilation system
An engine assembly may include an engine block, a first cylinder head, and an air intake assembly. The engine block may include a first bank defining a first set of cylinders. The first cylinder head may be fixed to the first bank and may include a first set of intake ports. The air intake assembly may include an intake air tube, a crankcase ventilation housing integrally formed with the intake air tube, and an oil separation assembly located within the crankcase ventilation housing. The intake air tube may be in communication with the first set of intake ports and an air source. The crankcase ventilation housing may have a wall at least partially defined by the intake air tube. |
| US08464693B2 |
Fuel pump module including a reservoir with multiple walls
A fuel pump module including a reservoir and a sender gauge. The reservoir includes an outer wall, an inner wall spaced radially inward from the outer wall, a floor connecting the inner and outer walls, and N sets of supports fixed to the floor and disposed between the inner and outer walls and around the inner wall. The sender gauge is supported and retained by one of the N sets of supports, wherein N is an integer greater than one. |
| US08464692B2 |
Device for supplying an internal combustion engine with fuel
The invention relates to a device for supplying an internal combustion engine with fuel, having a fuel reservoir and a high-pressure pump, which are connected through a suction line, a metering valve which effects a change of the passage cross-section of the suction line, a rail for receiving high-pressure fuel, and a pressure control valve for controlling the pressure in the rail. The metering valve and the pressure control valve are combined in a common housing and have opposite opening directions. The metering valve and the pressure control valve have closing members which are rigidly connected to each other and are movable on a coincident movement axis. |
| US08464684B2 |
Lubrication system for a dry sump internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine (10) dry sump lubrication system including multiple oil paths through the engine, the engine being constructed and arranged such that when the engine is mounted on a vehicle and the vehicle is level and upright and the engine is not in operation, oil in each of the multiple oil paths collects at oil collection portions (3,26,514,516) within the engine, each oil collection portion being at a low portion with respect to gravity in one of the oil paths; a plurality of oil drainage openings (510,512,508) fluidly connected to the oil collection portions; and a single drain plug (500) simultaneously removeably sealing each of the oil drainage openings, whereby substantially all of the oil in the system is drained from the system when the single drain plug is removed. |
| US08464682B2 |
Air intake device for internal combustion engine
An air intake device for an engine includes a duct having therein a first air flow passage, a housing having therein a second air flow passage, a rotary valve having a valve plate. A block of the housing, which conducts intake air to an intake port of a cylinder head, has a circular opposed surface that follows a shape of a curved surface portion of the valve plate. Moreover, the block of the housing has a protrusion that protrudes toward an upstream side of the second air flow passage in an air flow direction so as to contact a duct protrusion of the duct. Therefore, a localized flow of the intake air, which has flowed into the second air flow passage from an opening of the first air flow passage, can be restrained from spreading, and a flow rate of the localized flow can be restrained from slowing down. |
| US08464680B2 |
Disengageable module for a system for transmitting a starting torque to an internal combustion engine
The disengageable module for a system for transmitting a starting torque to an internal combustion engine, of the type comprising a ring gear connected to the crankshaft of the combustion engine, comprises an inner ring (26) intended to be coupled to the crankshaft, an outer ring (28) intended to be coupled to the ring gear, and at least one free wheel (30) provided with a plurality of wedging elements (34) mounted between raceways of the said rings. It further comprises means (50) designed to provide relative centering of the inner ring (26) and of the outer ring (28) and for transmitting radial load, the said means (50) being mounted at least partially between the inner ring and the outer ring leaving radial clearances between themselves and the said inner ring. |
| US08464675B2 |
Method for operating an oil control valve
A method for operating an oil control valve in an internal combustion engine is provided. The oil control valve controls a camshaft phaser disposed at an output side of the control valve and includes a spool disposed in a spool housing. The camshaft phaser controls the phase relationship between a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine and a camshaft of the internal combustion engine. The method includes positioning the spool within the spool housing to substantially block oil flow between the camshaft phaser and the internal combustion engine when the engine is temporarily not running. |
| US08464673B2 |
Variable valve lift apparatus
A variable valve lift apparatus may include a control shaft slidably disposed within a camshaft, a cam which is slidably disposed to the camshaft and a high lift cam lobe and a low lift cam lobe is formed thereto, a valve opening/closing unit contacting the cam and a control portion which moves the cam for the high lift cam lobe or the low lift cam lobe selectively to contact the valve opening/closing unit according to operation of the control shaft. |
| US08464670B2 |
Guided bridge for a piston in an internal combustion engine
An improved configuration for internal combustion engine that reduces side forces on pistons during the engine cycle. The improvement is an intermediate and guided bridge element located between pull rods and pistons with articulated connections that allow side forces to be dissipated away from the pistons. |
| US08464666B2 |
Dog toy ball dual treat holder
A pet chew toy, especially for dogs, has a resilient body in the shape of a ball which has a body and a pair of openings which lead into respective interior chambers inside the body of the ball. A generally S-shaped curved wall separates the two interior chambers. Each interior chamber is bounded by a semi-spherical side wall and the generally S-shaped curved wall. The semi-spherical side wall of each chamber has a ledge portion such that the opening disposed near the opening, for aiding in retention of a pet treat which is placed inside the chamber. The ledge is not radially disposed with reference to a center of the ball.The two interior chambers are symmetrical. The hollow interior body of the ball can thus hold either one pet treat in either chamber, or two pet treats with one treat being in each chamber. An air hole can also be provided in a wall distal from the opening of each chamber, to prevent suction from developing when the pet places its tongue into the interior chamber. |
| US08464664B1 |
Pet toy convertible between a compact configuration and an expanded configuration
A toy device that is selectively configurable between a compact configuration and an extended configuration. The toy device has two end caps. The two end caps are mirrored in shape and size. The two end caps are interconnected by a plurality of tubular segments. The end caps and plurality of tubular segments are molded as a single unit from a common elastomeric material. The plurality of tubular segments are selectively collapsible into the two end caps. When collapsed, the end caps touch and the toy device exists in its compact configuration. When the end caps are pulled apart, the tubular segments unfold and the toy device exists in its extended configuration. |
| US08464662B1 |
Automatic housebreaking pad disposal apparatus
An apparatus that maintains housebreaking pads for a pet owner, automatically removing and sealing soiled pads and waste and replacing the soiled pad with a clean pad. The apparatus senses when a pet is using a housebreaking pad, and when the pet is finished, removes and seals the pad and the waste automatically, moving the pad into a repository for later disposal and replacing the soiled pad with a clean pad. The apparatus seals the waste and pad with plastic film having low vapor permeability for disposal on a once-daily or less frequent basis. The apparatus minimizes or eliminates odors associated with canine elimination by removing the pads immediately after elimination is completed, and sealing the waste. A control unit, triggered by a sensor, has a single cycle or a multiple cycle operation, operating a motor that rolls the soiled composite pad onto an arbor in the repository. |
| US08464661B1 |
Automated animal watering apparatus
An automated animal watering apparatus having an inlet-outlet aperture disposed within a recessed repository, a first water sensor, a second water sensor, a combined pipe with an inlet portion and an outlet portion; the inlet portion operationally connected to an extant faucet, the outlet portion operationally communicating with an extant drainage; a heater plate, a temperature sensor, a drain pump, and a central processing unit controlling the device; wherein the central processing unit operationally communicates with the sensors, inlet valve, and drain pump, to maintain a water level within the repository, a water temperature between determined norms, and engages a preprogrammed flushing cycle by alternately activating and deactivating the drain pump. |
| US08464659B1 |
Pet accommodating system
A support plate has upper and lower surfaces, rear and front edges and opposed side edges. A front wall is upturned at the front edge. Opposed side walls are upturned at the side edges. A rear wall is upturned at the rear edge. The support plate has arcuate cut out sections. The cut out sections extend from an end of the front wall to an adjacent side wall. A tube assembly includes a hollow vertical tube. The vertical tube has a lower end and an upper end. The tube assembly also includes a horizontal tube with an interior end permanently attached to the upper end of the vertical tube. The horizontal tube also has a free exterior end. The horizontal tube is positioned to overlie the support plate. The exterior end is positioned closer to the front edge than to the rear edge. |
| US08464650B2 |
Low-maintenance lawn seed mixtures and use thereof
The present invention is directed to turf grass seed mixtures for a low maintenance lawns and uses thereof. The lawn established from the specific seed varieties blended in certain proportions as described in the disclosure has a slow growth rate and deep roots and grows well in many regions across North America and elsewhere in the world. Because the lawn requires little watering or fertilizer and is hardy and naturally insect-tolerant, it is safe and environmentally friendly. |
| US08464649B2 |
Planting unit
A planting unit for depositing fertilizer and seed in a single pass, double shoot manner includes a rotating disc that cuts a furrow in a planting surface and a trailing seed boot, having a cutting edge, that cuts a vertically and horizontally offset trench in the furrow to form a seed bed in the planting surface. The disc has a mounting frame for mounting the disc to a linkage assembly that is, in turn, coupled to a toolbar mount. The seed boot is also attached to the mounting frame. This common attachment provides a relatively short and compact device without sacrificing fertilizer and seed stratification. |
| US08464647B1 |
Plastic pallet
A plastic pallet suitable for stacking firewood, camping gear, and the like, above a concrete floor or in the attic, includes at least two longitudinal stringers and a plurality of four-sided open-box slats, the sides of which taper outwardly from the upper surface to afford a stackable profile. The slats assemble to the stringers without the need of tools or independent fasteners. The ends of each stringer are formed with interlocking profiles which allow the length of the pallet to be extended, as desired. |
| US08464644B2 |
Rotary table assembly
A rotary table assembly is configured to prevent torsional deformation of a sealing member on an outer peripheral surface of a rotary joint. The rotary joint has a distributor and a center shaft, which includes two hollow cylindrical center shafts respectively inserted into a through hole from opposite front and back surface sides of a rotatable table. The sealing member makes contact with the outer peripheral surface of the hollow cylindrical center shaft positioned near the front surface of the rotatable table. The distributor has a top region that is successively inserted from the back surface side of the rotatable table into the two hollow cylindrical center shafts, and a basal portion secured to a frame. |
| US08464641B2 |
Forty millimeter caliber exercise bullet
A forty millimeter caliber exercise bullet has been improved for properly exploding on a target, and securely maintaining the unloaded status during ordinary time. The improved exercise bullet is comprised of: a skirt (200), a striking pin (10), a safety device assembly (300) consisting of a detent cover (310) with a central mounting groove (311) and a pair of mounting grooves (312), a detent (320) for retaining the striking pin (10) by engaging or disengaging into the circumferential groove (11) by springs (323), a detonator cap (330) forming a hollow pocket (331) to insert a detonator trigger (20), a washer (30), a press-spring (332) for pressing a guiding cap (340), an explosion pipe (400), a smoke shell (500), and an ogive (600). When the bullet is fired, the rotation of the bullet generates centrifugal force to slide the retainer outward for disengaging the circumferential groove. Then, the striking pin moves upward to impact the detonator trigger when it hit on the target. |
| US08464638B2 |
Printing press with cylinder sensor
A printing press includes at least one exchangeable cylinder (10, 12) that is rotatably supported in a machine frame, a movable bearing member (18) forming part of a bearing (44) for the exchangeable cylinder (12), and a sensor head (26, 28, 30) that is capable of receiving signals from a signalling device (22, 24, 32) that is mounted on one of the cylinders (10, 12) of the printing press, and the sensor head (26, 28, 30) is mounted on the movable bearing member (18) and is arranged to receive the signals from a signalling device (22, 24, 32) at least when the bearing member (18) is in a predetermined position. |
| US08464637B2 |
Method and apparatus for thermal development having a textured support surface
The invention is a method and apparatus for forming a relief structure by thermally developing a photosensitive element containing a composition layer capable of being partially liquefied. During thermal development, the photosensitive element is supported on a base member having an exterior surface that is textured. The textures for the exterior surface include a particular surface roughness and/or patterns. |
| US08464635B1 |
Frying system
A frying system for frying a food product is disclosed having an endless conveyor system for cooking product in a bath of hot cooking oil. The endless conveyor system includes a submerging conveyor, a main conveyor, and a sediment conveyor, permanently, successively linked to one another. The endless conveyor system is also permanently linked to a hood portion of the housing. The sediment conveyor includes a heat exchanger constantly connected thereto for heating the bath of hot cooking oil. The heat exchanger includes a plurality of elongated elliptical shaped conduits and further may include a baffle that may operate as an elongated fluid flow optimization member to re-direct the flow of fluid. The hood portion of the housing of the frying system is capable of being raised and lowered from a closed, operative position to an open, inoperative position, and to intermediate positions therebetween. Since the components of the conveyor system are permanently successively linked together and to hood, as the hood is raised, the components of the conveyor system may be removed from the bath or, alternatively, may remain in the bath while other portions are removed. |
| US08464634B2 |
Popcorn machines with topping dispensing systems and associated methods of use and manufacture
Popcorn machines having topping dispensing systems are disclosed herein. A popcorn machine configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure includes a popping kettle or other popping apparatus positioned in a cabinet. The popping apparatus is configured to heat un-popped corn kernels and pop the corn kernels. After popping, the corn is held in the cabinet. The popcorn machine of this embodiment further includes a topping outlet positioned in the cabinet and a topping pump. The topping outlet is operably connectable to a topping container, and the topping pump is configured to move topping from the topping container through the topping outlet and onto a serving portion of popcorn in response to operator activation of the pump. |
| US08464632B2 |
Integrated cartridge for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance
A cartridge, particularly for espresso coffee machines, for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance contained therein by means of water under pressure is provided. The cartridge comprises a main body with a cup portion and a lid portion. The cup portion comprises a base, a sidewall and a rim opposed to the base, while the lid portion is fixedly attached to the rim of the cup portion so as to define an internal volume of the cartridge. The internal volume of the cartridge houses the particulate substance comprised within filtering means for retaining the particulate substance and for percolating fluid substances therethrough. The lid portion comprises a normally closed lid port defining a first passage for percolation fluid substances when it is opened. The cartridge further comprises a tappet arranged inside the internal volume so as to pierce the base when a pressure is applied to the base towards the internal volume, thus opening a normally closed cup port. |
| US08464630B2 |
Integrated cartridge for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance
A cartridge for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance contained therein by means of water under pressure, the cartridge comprising: a main body comprising a cup portion and a lid portion, the cup portion comprising a base, a sidewall and a rim opposed to the base, the lid portion being fixedly attached to the rim of the cup portion so as to define an internal volume of the cartridge, the internal volume of the cartridge housing the particulate substance comprised within filtering means for retaining the particulate substance and for percolating fluid substances therethrough, the lid portion comprising a lid port defining a first passage for percolation fluid substances, the base of the cup portion comprising a cup port defining a second passage for percolation fluid substances, wherein the base comprises a plurality of ridges directly formed thereon and protruding towards the internal volume of the cartridge, so as to support the filtering means and the particulate substance and to define a fine canalization between the filtering means and the cup port. |
| US08464629B2 |
Multicylinder free piston machine
A machine such as an external combustion engine in an electrical power and heat cogeneration unit comprises multiple cylinders, each driving an independent load or being independently driven, and a balance shaft comprising one or more off-center balancing mass(es) to counteract rocking motion created by the piston motion and thereby assist in dynamically balancing the machine. |
| US08464625B2 |
Barrel-mounted device for a firearm
The invention relates to rifled and smoothbore firearms and can be used in barrel-mounted devices for firing in the air and in the water. The inventive barrel-mounted device for firearms comprises a unit for joining to the barrel, a cap and a starting part with gas vents. The starting part bore is the continuation of the barrel bore, and there are N≧1 compartments formed between the casing and the starting part. Each compartment includes at least two gas vents and provides the possibility of gas exhaust from the starting part bore to the compartment through the first of the mentioned gas vents and gas exhaust from the compartment to the starting part bore through the second gas vent. The compartment length is 0.5-3.0 of the bore caliber and in the cross-section plane of the barrel-mounted device the minimal cross-section area of N≧1 compartments, designed for the gas flow between gas vents, ranges within 0.4-4.5 of the barrel bore area. The barrel-mounted device can comprise a muzzle compartment, which projects beyond the muzzle face of the starting part and has a front wall with a muzzle opening. The diameter of the muzzle opening equals to 1.05-1.2 of the barrel bore caliber. The said invention makes it possible to reduce recoil momentum, shot blast and muzzle flash while firing in the air, as well as to reduce recoil momentum and hydraulic impact in the course of underwater firing. |
| US08464624B2 |
Blast treatment method and blast treatment device
A blast treatment method and an apparatus, which can perform the blast treatment of a treatment subject by using and securely initiating a blasting explosive having fluidity. The blast treatment method includes: a blasting preparation operation of housing a blasting explosive having fluidity in a container and placing the blasting explosive around a treatment subject as well as attaching an initiation device to the container; a housing operation of housing the container, the blasting explosive, and the treatment subject in a chamber; a decompression operation of decompressing the inside of the chamber; and a blasting operation of initiating the blasting explosive and blasting the treatment subject with the blasting explosive. In the decompression operation, the inside of the chamber is decompressed while a gas vent portion regulates the escape of the blasting explosive to the outside of the container and permits the escape of gases in the container to the outside. |
| US08464623B2 |
Method and arrangement for controlling the temperature of two cylinders
Method and arrangement for controlling the temperature of two cylinders forming a nip. The temperature of at least one point on each cylinder is sensed by sensors, forming a point of measuring, wherein the highest sensed temperature is used as set point and wherein the cylinders are heated in areas where the sensed temperature is below the set point. |
| US08464614B2 |
Ratchet wrench handle
In a ratchet wrench handle, an operation piece is swingably supported by an axis in a handle head. Positive and reverse rotation claws are disposed on one and the other portions of a distal end surface of an operation piece. The operation piece is provided with a cam edge at its backward end surface. A pressing pin is provided in a switch member such that the pressing pin can freely move into and out of the switch member. The distal end of the pressing pin pressurely contacts with the cam edge through a force of a spring. The switch member is located on a line extended from an imaginary straight line running between the rotation axis of the rotation member and the axis of the operation piece. |
| US08464609B2 |
Convertible, push-bicycle for a child
An articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle is provided. The articulable crankset can be in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle. |
| US08464608B2 |
Bicycle clipless pedal
A bicycle clipless pedal includes a pedal, a locking sheet pivotally mounted on the pedal, and a plastic elastomer located between the pedal and the locking sheet. The pedal has a first clipless end extending therefrom. The locking sheet has a second first clipless end extending therefrom opposite to the first clipless end. A clipping space is defined between the first clipless end and the second clipless end. The elastomer has one end abutting against the pedal and the other end abutting against the locking sheet. |
| US08464605B2 |
Actuating device for a parking brake of a motor vehicle
The invention relates to an actuating device for a parking brake of a motor vehicle, with at least one lever which is operatively connected to the parking brake via traction means and which is mounted such that it can pivot between a rest position and a brake application position about a first pivot axis which is positionally fixed with respect to the vehicle body. A rod is coupled to the lever such that it can pivot about a second pivot axis which is moveable with respect to the vehicle body and is parallel to the first pivot axis, the rod bearing a handle element and being mounted on the vehicle body such that it can pivot about a third pivot axis, which is positionally fixed with respect to the vehicle body, and such that it can be displaced along its longitudinal direction. |
| US08464603B2 |
Parallelogram based actuating device
An actuating device includes a base link, a first link, a second link, a translating link, a shaft, and a drive. The base link includes a base plate, a first joint, and a second joint. The base plate extends between the first joint and the second joint. The first link is mounted to the first joint to allow rotation of the first link relative to the base plate at the first joint. The second link is mounted to the second joint to allow rotation of the second link relative to the base plate at the second joint. The drive includes an arc surface and is mounted to the translating link such that, when operating the actuating device, a position of the arc surface is fixed relative to the translating plate. The shaft is mounted to the arc surface to cause translation of the translating link as the shaft rotates. |
| US08464602B2 |
Gear shift fork for shifting a transmission
A shifting rocker (2) for a transmission comprises two arms (4, 6), between which a mount for a sliding sleeve is provided. The shifting rocker (2) is mounted in a transmission housing at two bearing points (20, 22) such that it can pivot. Further, a lever arm (16) is positioned on the shifting rocker (2), via which force is applied to the shifting rocker (2) for the purpose of pivoting the shifting rocker (2) about the bearing points (20, 22). The lever arm (16) is positioned on the shifting rocker (2) in the area (24) between the two bearing points (20, 22). |
| US08464595B2 |
Method for manufacturing a plastic, especially a polyurethane, as well as method for manufacturing, with such plastic, a liner for a measuring tube of an in-line measuring device
A plastic is manufactured on the basis of at least four starting components (A, B, C, F) of which at least a first primary component (A) and a second primary component (B) can react with one another. A chemical reaction of the two primary components (A, B) is accelerated in such case by addition of at least one secondary component (C) serving as a catalyst. Additionally, according to the method, a tertiary component (F) serves as a filler, especially a color-giving filler. Initially a first multicomponent system (BF; CF; BCF), especially also a storable system, serving as an intermediate component, is formed, which contains, at least in part, both the secondary component (C) as well as also the tertiary component (F). Additionally, on the basis of the first multicomponent system (BF; CF; BCF) a flowable, especially liquid, second multicomponent system (ABCF) is formed, which contains the four starting components (A, B, C, F) in concentrations enabling the chemical reaction of the primary components (A, B). The plastic is finally formed by means of the second multicomponent system in that the therein contained primary component (A) and the therein contained second primary component (B) are allowed to react, at least partially, with one another. By applying the second multicomponent system (ABCF) onto an inner wall of a support tube, especially a metal support tube, serving as a component of an in-line measuring device, a liner internally coating the support tube can be formed from this plastic in simple manner. |
| US08464587B2 |
Sensor for examining a value document, and method for the production of said sensor
A sensor for examining a document of value in a detection range of the sensor has at least one electrical component for converting electrical energy into sound waves and/or electromagnetic fields, in particular optical radiation, for examining the document of value and/or for detecting sound waves and/or magnetic or electromagnetic fields, in particular optical radiation, from the document of value to generate detection signals. Additionally, the sensor has a holder for the component, having a recess or a hole for at least partially accommodating the component, in which the electrical component is held, and on or in which at least one conductive path extends to contact with at least one electrical contact of the electrical component. |
| US08464584B2 |
Beverage dispenser with level measuring apparatus and display
A beverage dispenser (20) has a double-walled tubular, preferably cylindrical, sensor (22) that is immersed in liquid (23), such as coffee or tea, within an opaque, stainless steel container, or beverage dispenser (25) has a double-walled tubular sensor connected via two conductive paths (24, 26) to two inputs (28, 30), respectively, of a resistance measuring circuit (32) that measures the resistance between the two inputs (28, 30) to produce an electrical, direct current, resistance output signal that varies with changes in the instantaneous resistance between the two inputs (28, 30) The resistance output signal is connected to an input (34) of an electronic controller (40) The electronic controller (40) calculates the depth of the liquid (23) based on the magnitude of the resistance output signal applied to the input (34). The sensed and calculated level is then converted to display control output signals produced on a controller output terminal and connected to electronic display (44) to provide a visual indication of the level or quantity of beverage within the dispenser (20). Alternatively, resistance is measured between the interior of the beverage dispenser (20) and a sensor tube. |
| US08464582B2 |
Variable throat venturi flow meter having a plurality of section-varying elements
A variable throat Venturi flow meter includes an upstream pipe section having an upstream cross-sectional area, a throat section having a variable throat cross-sectional area that is smaller than the upstream cross-sectional area, and a plurality of section-varying elements adapted to temporarily vary the throat cross-sectional area to allow a downhole tool to pass through the throat section. |
| US08464581B2 |
Passive monitoring system for a liquid flow
A passive liquid flow monitoring system includes a monitoring device made of a liquid-soluble material in which coded transponders are releasably retained. The monitoring device may be deployed proximate a region of interest in a hydrocarbon-producing well. Characteristics of a liquid flow in the region of interest may be determined based upon detection of transponders that are released from the monitoring device when the monitoring device is exposed to the liquid flow. |
| US08464577B2 |
Quartz sensor and sensing device
To provide a quartz sensor capable of detecting a sensing target with high sensitivity also in measurement in a liquid phase in which a difference in Q values at the time of measurement in the liquid phase and in a vapor phase is small. In a quartz sensor 1 including an AT-cut quartz plate 11 having a capture layer (absorbing layer) 12 formed on one surface (XZ′ surface) thereof and detecting a sensing target based on an amount of change in a frequency of a quartz resonator 10 caused when the sensing target is absorbed by the capture layer 12, there are formed electrodes 13 for oscillating the quartz plate 11 on end faces (XY′ surfaces) mutually opposite in a Z′ direction of the surface of the quartz resonator 10 on which the capture layer 12 is formed (XZ′ surface). |
| US08464576B2 |
Engine oil degradation-estimating device and device for estimating antioxidant performance of engine oil
To provide an engine oil degradation-estimating device and a device for estimating antioxidant performance of engine oil which are capable of determining degradation and an antioxidant performance of engine oil inexpensively and accurately, thereby making it possible to properly determine degradation of the engine oil and the time for replacement of the engine oil.The engine oil degradation-estimating device includes an ECU 2. The ECU 2 estimates an antioxidant performance OIT and a cleanliness preservation performance TBN of engine oil, and determines degradation of engine oil based on the estimated antioxidant performance OIT and cleanliness preservation performance TBN. The device for estimating antioxidant performance of engine oil also includes an ECU 2. The ECU 2 acquires concentration [FUEL] of fuel in engine oil, and estimates the antioxidant performance of the engine oil based on the acquired fuel concentration [FUEL]. |
| US08464570B2 |
Method for manufacturing S-shaped bent edge on heat-isolating protection metal component
A method of making an S-shaped bent edge component comprising: placing in order an upper layer of metal base plate and a lower layer of metal base plate as well as a middle layer of heat-isolating materials in between; fixing the metal base plates with the heat-isolating materials; forming J-shaped edges on the base plates by stamping, and the J-shaped edges of the base plates are perpendicular to a horizontal portion of the metal base plates; each of the J-shaped edges of the base plates has an outwardly bent curve with a crown and a curve end; by means of a stamping step performed by an upper mold M1 with a concave surface and a flat surface and a lower mold M2 with a flat surface, the concave surface of the mold M1 exerts lateral force onto the curve ends so that the J-shaped edges of the base plates inwardly bend towards the upper metal base plate. |
| US08464569B2 |
Internal roller tool for bending a strip into a tube
An internal tool for bending a strip passing in a strip-travel direction into a tube has a support juxtaposable with a face of the passing strip, at least two roller holders pivotal on the support about respective offset holder pivot axes generally parallel to the strip-travel direction, and respective rollers carried in the holders and rotatable about respective roller axes generally perpendicular to the respective holder axes. |
| US08464568B2 |
Production method of seamless pipe or tube, and oxidizing gas supply unit
A production method of a seamless pipe or tube according to the present invention comprises the steps of applying a lubricant containing carbon to a mandrel bar, producing a material pipe or tube with a mandrel mill using the mandrel bar to which the lubricant is applied, and reheating the material pipe or tube in a reheating furnace, wherein when a temperature of the material pipe or tube is 550° C. or higher and 1000° C. or lower in the reheating step, an oxidizing gas is fed into the material pipe or tube. |
| US08464566B2 |
Method of manufacturing a valve housing
A method of manufacturing a metallic valve housing by hydroforming a tube section in a die is provided. The die includes an upper part having a stamp and a lower part having a depression. The tube section is placed in the die, filled with a liquid, and subjected to a high internal pressure. Opposite walls of the tube section in a middle portion between two tube ends is shaped in that one side of the tube section is pressed inwards transversely to the axis of the tube section by the stamp to form a concave curvature, and the opposite wall is pressed into the depression in the lower part to form a flat. |
| US08464559B2 |
Flight acceptable knitting needles
A knitting needle has multiple segments, at least one of which is relatively non-rigid, wherein the segments can be combined to produce a needle that is sufficiently rigid to be used for knitting, while also having diminished usefulness as a weapon. In three major classes of embodiments, one of the segments fits inside the other in a telescoping manner, one of the segments wraps around the other, or the two segments can fit together in some sort of slotted fashion. There may be one or more engineered points of structural failure. Segments can be held together frictionally, magnetically, threadably, using a snap or twist and lock fitting, or in any other suitable manner. Contemplated segments can have any suitable composition, including especially a bendable plastic or a foam rubber. |
| US08464558B2 |
Glass making method
The subject of the invention is a process for manufacturing red glass containing copper that comprises the steps consisting in: obtaining a mass of colorless molten glass, free of sulfides, the iron oxide weight content of which is between 0.01 and 0.15%; then conveying said mass of molten glass in a feeder channel, in which copper oxide and tin oxide are added to said mass of molten glass, the partial pressure of oxygen in said mass of molten glass being between 10−7 and 10−4; then forming glass objects, especially bottles or flasks from said mass of molten glass; then subjecting said glass objects to a heat treatment so as to develop a red tint. |
| US08464555B2 |
Monolithic float glass forming chamber and method of construction
The present invention is related to a monolithic float glass forming chamber and its method of construction. The forming chamber being of the type that includes a bottom wall; side walls and a roof wall to form an elongated chamber, the elongated chamber including a forming section and a cooling section for a desired thickness and ribbon width of molten glass, wherein each type of wall comprises: a first refractory structure with a mixture of a castable and pumpable refractory material and an insulation material; and a second refractory structure with a castable and pumpable refractory material, the first and second refractory structures being formed at the same construction site. |
| US08464552B2 |
Production of a self-supporting glass film
A process for the production of a self-supporting glass film is described. The method includes the steps of preparing a mixture containing a colloidal silica sol, at least one alkanolamine organic additive and an organic binder; coating the mixture onto a base material; drying the coated mixture to form a precursor film on the base material; releasing the precursor film from the base material; and firing the released precursor film to form a self-supporting glass film. Self-supporting glass films produced by the disclosed process are also described. |
| US08464544B2 |
Refrigerator and control method thereof
A refrigerator capable of supercooling a target object and a control method thereof are provided. The refrigerator includes a temperature sensor which senses a temperature of the target object in the cooling compartment, wherein the temperature sensor is prevented from being in contact with ambient cool air and is installed on a bottom surface on which the target object is placed so as to sense only the temperature of the target object. Further, the control method includes sensing a temperature of the target object at each interval of a specified time Δt, calculating a difference between two temperatures sensed at specified time intervals, and comparing the difference between two temperatures with a predetermined reference value ΔTc to determine the supercooled state of the target object. |
| US08464537B2 |
Fuel nozzle for combustor
A nozzle for a combustor is disclosed. The nozzle includes a center body, a burner tube provided around the center body and defining a fuel-air mixing passage therebetween, and an outer peripheral wall provided around the burner tube and defining an air flow passage therebetween. The nozzle further includes a nozzle tip connected to the center body. The nozzle tip includes a pilot fuel passage configured to deliver a flow of pilot fuel to a combustion zone, and a plurality of transfer passages. The plurality of transfer passages are configured to deliver a flow of air for combustion with the flow of pilot fuel in the combustion zone and further configured to deliver a flow of transfer fuel to the combustion zone. |
| US08464535B2 |
Systems, apparatus and methods for thermal energy storage, coupling and transfer
Systems, methods, and apparatus relating to the use of phase change material to store, transfer and convert heat, such as from solar radiation, to mechanical work or electricity. Apparatus, systems, components, and methods relating to thermal energy transfer and energy conversion are described herein. In one aspect, the invention relates to a containment vessel having a heat receiving region and a heat transfer region such that a plurality of phase change materials are disposed therein and a sequence of solid, liquid and vapor phases are used to transfer heat from a source to a heat receiver of a power conversion unit. |
| US08464531B2 |
Method and device for converting thermal energy into electricity, high potential heat and cold
The inventive method for converting thermal energy into electricity, high-potential heat and cold consists in evaporating a coolant from a strong solution at a high temperature and pressure in a boiler in such a way that a superheated vapor and a weak solution thereof are formed, in reducing the temperature and pressure of the coolant and solution associated with the interaction thereof with external consumers (sources) of energy, in absorbing the low-temperature coolant in the weak solution in an absorber, in subsequently compressing the strong solution, which is formed during the absorption, by a pump, in heating said solution in a regenerator and in supplying it to evaporation. Prior to absorption, the weak solution is overcooled in a cooler using low-temperature energy sources. A turbine with a generator or a condenser, a control valve and an evaporator are used as a unit for interacting the coolant with energy consumers. Said invention makes it possible to increase the efficiency of heating, cooling and power energy generation processes. |
| US08464528B2 |
Variable-nozzle assembly for a turbocharger
A variable-nozzle turbocharger includes a turbine housing and a center housing, and a generally annular nozzle ring and an array of vanes rotatably mounted to the nozzle ring such that the vanes are rotatably adjustable for regulating exhaust gas flow to the turbine wheel. An elastically deformable member is disposed between a radially inwardly facing surface of the nozzle ring and a radially outwardly facing surface of the center housing, the elastically deformable member having a radially inner surface contacting the radially outwardly facing surface of the center housing and having a radially outer surface contacting the radially inwardly facing surface of the nozzle ring so as to radially center the nozzle ring relative to the center housing. |
| US08464523B2 |
Targeted particulate matter filter regeneration system
A regeneration system includes a particulate matter (PM) filter. The PM filter has an upstream end that receives an exhaust gas from an engine. An air pump circuit directs ambient air to a first exhaust conduit upstream from the PM filter. A control module determines a current soot loading level of the PM filter. The control module also at least one of operates the engine in a rich mode and activates an air pump of the air pump circuit when the current soot loading level is greater than a predetermined soot loading level. |
| US08464522B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
An exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine is provided with an upstream side three-way catalyst capable of purifying exhaust gas and a particulate filter (PM filter) for trapping particulate matter PM contained in exhaust gas. Catalyst warm-up control is exercised for the purpose of warming up mainly the upstream side three-way catalyst at cold start. Filter regeneration control for removing the particulate matter PM accumulating on the particulate filter from the filter is exercised at the cold start after the catalyst warm-up control is exercised. |
| US08464520B2 |
Control of diesel particulate filter regeneration duration
Termination of regeneration of a particulate filter may be based on a variable percent threshold of stored particulate, where the percent threshold of stored particulate depends on a current soot burn rate. In one example approach, a method for controlling regeneration of a diesel particulate filter comprises: terminating regeneration based on a particulate burning rate; wherein the particulate burning rate is based on operating conditions of the diesel particulate filter; the operating conditions including an amount of stored particulate in the diesel particulate filter and a temperature of the diesel particulate filter. |
| US08464516B2 |
Inlet for exhaust treatment device
An exhaust gas treatment device includes an inlet housing having an inlet opening for receipt of an exhaust flow from an engine aligned along a first axis. A main housing includes a cylindrical body portion defining a treatment zone and an exhaust outlet aligned along a second axis extending parallel to the first axis. The inlet housing is in fluid communication with and fixed to an outer surface of the main housing. The inlet housing includes a contoured wall including an end portion positioned opposite the inlet opening, an aperture extending through the wall transverse to the first axis, divergent side wall portions on opposite sides of the inlet opening, and a necked portion having a reduced cross-section positioned downstream of the inlet opening and upstream of the aperture. A component is coupled to the main housing for treating exhaust flowing through the treatment zone. |
| US08464515B2 |
Ammonia burning internal combustion engine
An ammonia burning internal combustion engine in which, in addition to ammonia, a reformed gas reformed at a reformer is fed into a combustion chamber. When a reforming ability of the reformer is less than a predetermined reforming ability, an ammonia ratio is increased to a ratio more than the ammonia ratio after completion of engine warmup set in advance in accordance with an operation state of the engine, and secondary air is fed from a secondary air feeding device into an engine exhaust passage upstream of an exhaust purification catalyst. |
| US08464514B2 |
Method for regenerating a particulate filter for a boosted direct injection engine
A method for regenerating a particulate filter is disclosed. In one example, oxygen is pumped from the intake system of a direct injection turobocharged gasoline engine through a cylinder and into the exhaust system by a compressor. In this way, regeneration of a particulate filter may be accomplished without an auxiliary air supply. |
| US08464508B2 |
Biomass baler
A baling apparatus for towing behind a combine, said baling apparatus comprising a tongue to enable said towing, said baling apparatus defining a target for receiving at least a portion of material discharged directly from the combine across a gap extending the distance from a rear of the combine to a front of said baling apparatus to impact on said target of said baling apparatus through an opening defined by forward frame members and a cross member connected to the tongue rather than impacting the ground. |
| US08464502B2 |
Packaging device for packing stacked soft hygienic products into a plastic bag
A packaging device for packing stacked soft hygienic products, e.g. sanitary napkins, panty liners or the like, into a plastic bag made of an endless film, has specific forming shoulder (21) and MD sealing unit (5) to produce a MD seal (35) at a closure edge (46) of the bag. Thus four integral side panels are available at the bag (WB) for imprinting. |
| US08464499B2 |
Method of filling a drum having an RFID identification tag
A fluid containment and dispensing system having a RFID tag associated therewith. The fluid containment and dispensing system includes a fluid containment drum having an opening defined thereon. The fluid containment and dispensing system further includes a dispensing mechanism operably coupleable with the opening, the dispensing mechanism configured to dispense the contents of the fluid containment drum. An identification tag is coupleable with the dispensing mechanism and includes a first laminate, a second laminate laminated to the first laminate, and a RFID member disposed between the first and second laminates, wherein the RFID member includes information associated with a fluid containment and dispensing system. |
| US08464498B1 |
Capsule opener and emptier
The present embodiments are directed to a medicinal extractor that may open and empty pharmaceutical capsules of variable sizes. The medicinal extractor may have a cover that swings open to expose an interior chamber for a powder-filled medication capsule to be dropped into, and the cover may then be closed. The medicinal extractor may have squeezable side depressors on each side for manually squeezing or holding the capsule in place horizontally. Once closed, the cover may be pushed down to compress two components of the medicinal extractor that are moveable with respect to each other. As the moveable components compress, the cover may press the capsule downward onto a hollow piercing element. The hollow piercing element may puncture the capsule to allow medication within the capsule to fall through the hollow piercing element and into a collection chamber or onto a surface below the medicinal extractor for collection. |
| US08464489B2 |
Laminate floor panels
Floor panels are shown with discontinuous surface layers, which are mechanically connectable to each other along one pair of adjacent edges, said floor panels comprising at least two floor elements whereof at least one of the floor elements is non rectangular. |
| US08464484B1 |
Do-it-yourself home remodeling kit for installation of a tile assembly on a kitchen backsplash or other support surface in a timely manner
A do-it-yourself kit assembly and installation method for mounting a tile assembly to a predetermined support surface, such as a kitchen backsplash. The kit assembly includes the tile assembly comprised of one or more tile sheets as well as all of the installation materials and installation tools required to accomplish the do-it-yourself installation in a timely manner. Each tile sheet includes a plurality of fixed tile pieces, which may comprise glass mosaic tiles, and a self-adherent adhesive layer, which facilitates the mounting of the tile sheets to virtually any kind of surface. A ready-to-use grout supply makes it easy to apply the optimal quantity of grout onto the mounted tile sheet(s), wherein the installation materials and tools are cooperatively provided to facilitate the installation method. |
| US08464482B2 |
Sectioned precast deck footings/ piers
An assembly of precast concrete units matingly assembled on top of one another to form a whole deck footing, capable of supporting a deck, shed, porch, addition or other structure. The individual units are of manageable weight and can be moved by one person, not unlike a bag of unmixed cement. The units interlock to prevent shifting, separating, frost damage by water infiltration and heaving when placed under ground. |
| US08464480B2 |
Modular fenestration system
A modular fenestration system includes a collection of standardized functional units such as double hung window units, casement window units, picture window units, transom units, and the like. The functional units all share common sightlines, common glass set-back, common interfaces, common design language, and are sized according to a unique modular or incremental sizing grid. The sizing grid specifies individual window units in terms of the rough opening size in which they are designed to be installed. Individual functional units are easily combinable in a vast array of combinations to create a large number of possible composite window units. The above attributes of the functional units ensures that the composite window units are architecturally pleasing and appear as though they were custom crafted. The system also includes a collection of interior and interior trim units in various architectural styles that can be attached to installed standardized functional units via the common interfaces to match the architecture of a particular home or building. A collection of matching architectural grilles and hardware also are provided, and the trim units, grills, and hardware are all historically and period accurate to represent a wide variety of architectures both past and present. Exterior and interior trim can be built up from a limited number of standard components that can be combined in a large number of ways to create a wide variety of trim profiles. |
| US08464479B2 |
Structural system with high absorption capacity to impactive and impulsive loads
A structural system that is capable of absorbing high impactive and impulsive loads comprises of the following elements: (a) Main Structure: should be one of certain types of structures such as: containments, reservoirs, tanks, storages, etc. (b) Outer Shield: an outside hardened structure fixed by an anchorage system and resting on a sliding-plane. (c) Anchorage System: a set of anchors that hold the outer shield in place and collapses if the impactive or impulsive load exceeds certain level allowing the outer shield to slide crushing the filling layer and absorbing substantial amount of energy. |
| US08464475B2 |
Pipe flashing apparatus and method
A roof flashing that can be installed around a pipe, instead of over the pipe, is provided. The roof flashing can include a collar, a base, a foot, and a longitudinal opening. The collar can have a conical shape, and the base can have a top edge and a bottom edge such that the top edge of the base is coupled to a bottom edge of the collar. The foot can be coupled to the bottom edge of the base and extend outwardly from the bottom edge of the base. The longitudinal opening can extend from an apex of the collar to an edge of the foot and can include first, second, and third sections. A width of the longitudinal opening can increase when first and second edges of the opening are pulled away from each other. |
| US08464474B2 |
Self cleaning gutter system
This new design assembly consisting of two brackets with a round tube, that is mounted on to the roof fascia, the bracket with a single one side round tube is mounted at the far end of the fascia, and the bracket with the double sided tube is mounted on the fascia approx. 10 feet apart. Using the hole in the end cap install the gutter assembly over the round tube on the bracket so that it rotated freely. Install a rain cover over the bracket. The pin is then removed from the bracket and the gutter assembly rotates from a horizontal location to a down position to clean out leaves and debris. After cleaning, the gutter is rotated back to its horizontal location and the pin is reinserted. The rain water will flow trough the bracket tube and out the downspout. |
| US08464473B2 |
Liquid dispersing plate
A liquid dispersing device includes a relatively rigid thin perforated plate having a plurality of closely spaced minute openings or holes in the form of a fine mesh. A plurality of plates are mounted on brackets secured along a side wall of a structure in the path of liquid flowing over and downward from the upper end of the wall. The liquid passing through the holes is dispersed into fine droplets with minimum agglomeration. The angle of the plate and holes determine the direction in which the droplets are dispersed. Use of the perforated plates can eliminate the usual gutter and leader structures which remove rainwater from roofs of houses and can also provide more effective cooling when mounted along internal cooling tower walls. |
| US08464472B2 |
Weather strip
A weather strip includes a flexible strip main body, and a core embedded in the strip main body. The core includes a core main body having an engaged portion and an engaging leg member to be inserted into and engaged with a mounting hole on a mounting object. The engaging leg member has a first engaging portion for engaging the mounting hole and a second engaging portion for engaging the engaged portion of the core. At least the first engaging portion is not covered by the strip main body. |
| US08464470B2 |
Railway platform door device
Provided is a platform door device which makes it possible to reduce the length of time for a replacement operation when a panel-shaped portion of a door is damaged. The platform door device comprises a door, and a driving mechanism for moving the door forwardly and backwardly to close and open a gate on a platform. The driving mechanism includes a motor, a rotation body adapted to be rotated by the motor, and a driven body adapted to be driven according to the rotation of the rotation body so as to move the door, and the door has a panel-shaped main body, and a base segment detachably joined to the main body and attached to the driven body. |
| US08464469B2 |
Belt driven power sliding door with belt tensioner
A power drive system for a sliding door on a motor vehicle includes a guide track fixedly secured to the vehicle. A motor fixedly secured to the track is adapted to receive power. The motor converts the power into a rotational force. A set of pulleys and wheels are fixedly secured to the track to direct the path of a belt. The belt extends between first and second ends which are operatively coupled to the door and move relative to each other as the motor drives the belt to move the door between open and close positions. Upon manual movement of the door, relative movement between the first and second ends of the belt is sensed by sensors. The sensors create a feedback signal received by an electronic controller which operates the motor to overcome a motor back-driving force and belt friction forces created during manual movement of the door. |
| US08464468B2 |
Drive unit for garage doors with universal electric connection options
A drive unit for a door includes a guiding device comprising guide rail and a guide element extending in a movement direction of the door. A drive device arranged inside a carriage moves back and forth along the guide rail and is engaged in the guide element. The drive unit is supplied with power via the guide rail and the guide element. Electrical plug connectors are provided on an external power source for the electrical connection of the guide element and the guide rail. |
| US08464467B2 |
Sash for sliding door or window
A sash for sliding doors or windows includes: a main body (1) including an insulating chamber (2) located between respective glazing panels (3, 4) whose dimensions are larger than the dimensions of the chamber, so as to form a perimetric housing (5) which is open towards the outside; three rigid profiles (6) forming a frame inside three respective sides of the main body being stably accommodated in the housing; the rigid profiles forming an accessory zone, open to the outside; the three rigid profiles each forming a channel (11) accommodating a rod (8) for operating elements which drive and/or open and close the sash (100); the three rigid profiles forming one upright (103) and two crosspieces (6m, 105) of the sash; the ends of the profiles are joined by an angled element (12), so that the channel (11) runs uninterruptedly along the three sides of the main body. |
| US08464463B1 |
Plant screening apparatus
A plant screening apparatus is provided for preventing pest damage to a plant while permitting access to light, water and nutrients. The plant screening apparatus includes a base member for positioning on a support surface. The base member has a central opening for positioning the base member around a plant. A screen is coupled to the base member and a support assembly is coupled to the base member. The screen is supported by the support assembly such that the screen is positioned to enclose an interior space designed for containing the plant. |
| US08464455B2 |
Lockable safety for firearm
A auto-loading firearm lockable manual safety mechanism operable to disable the firing control mechanism of the firearm. The firearm may include a frame, a pivotable hammer, and a trigger bar operably coupled to a pivotable trigger for cocking and releasing the hammer. In one embodiment, the trigger bar is movable between a firing position and standby position in which the firing mechanism is disabled. A rotary-operated camming member is provided that is engageable with the trigger bar. The camming member is operable to move the trigger bar between the firing and standby positions. In one embodiment, the camming member may be key-operated. |
| US08464445B2 |
Steam ironing device having heating means, pump, and control circuit to control ratio of fluid flow rate of pump to power of heating means
A steam ironing device includes a water supply device, a steam generator for generating steam, a heating element for heating the steam generator, at least one atomizating device, a valve provided in a flow path between the steam generator and the atomizing device, and an electric pump for delivering water from said water supply device to said steam generator. To obtain wet steam at the atomizing device, the ironing device includes a control device for controlling the power of the heating element of the steam generator, for controlling the flow rate of the pump, and for controlling the opening and closing of the valve, the valve being open if the ratio between the flow rate (g/min) of the pump and the power (W) of the heating element is in a range of 1:20 to 1:38. |
| US08464443B2 |
Fixing device for a bucket front
A fixing device is for a bucket front, wherein the bucket front forms a wear part in an excavating bucket comprising at least one side portion. The side portion is formed with a coupling piece comprising at least two projections with recesses, wherein the projections fit in a complementary manner into recesses in the bucket front or in a coupling part fixed to the bucket front, and wherein the bucket front is connected to the coupling piece by a locking bolt extending, in the direction of the side portion, through openings associated with the side portion and the bucket front. |
| US08464440B2 |
Article of footwear including a composite upper
An upper made of a composite material is disclosed. The composite material comprises a layer of carbon fiber material and a flexible substrate. The composite material also includes a thin outer coating of TPU. The upper is generally flexible and lightweight. |
| US08464438B2 |
Seasoning apparatus
A seasoning apparatus includes: a table on which a stack of paper sheets is loaded; a ceiling plate which is arranged above the table to cover an upper side of the paper stack on the table; a front side plate and a rear side plate which are arranged to oppose to each other at front and rear sides of the paper stack on the table, at least one of the front and rear side plates being advanceable and retractable relatively to each other; a right-hand side plate and a left-hand side plate which are arranged to oppose to each other at a right-hand side and a left-hand side of the paper stack on the table, at least one of the right-hand and left-hand side plates being advanceable and retractable relatively to each other; and an air blowing device which blows air horizontally toward the paper stack on the table. |
| US08464437B1 |
Apparatus and method for the treatment of biosolids
Biosolids in the nature of sewage sludge is processed in a controlled environment to produce a dried sludge product of relatively high dry solid content with the elimination of or reduced levels of pathogens. The water containing sewage sludge is dried while cascading within a processing chamber using heated air at a temperature below the ignition or smoldering temperature of the sewage sludge to prevent the formation of embers. The sewage sludge before discharge is retained within the processing chamber for a sufficient time and temperature as mandated by the Environment Protection Agency rules and guidelines. |
| US08464434B1 |
Hole and countersink measurement system
A method and apparatus for measuring diameters of holes and countersinks. A tip of a countersink measurement system may be moved to engage a countersink for a hole. A diameter of the countersink may be measured in response to the tip of the countersink measurement system engaging the countersink. A probe may be moved through the tip of the countersink measurement system into a channel for the hole, while the tip is engaged with the countersink. A number of diameters for the channel may be measured as the probe moves in the hole. |
| US08464429B2 |
Hair removal apparatus
A hair removal apparatus with a housing and an actuator head movable in the housing. The actuator head accommodates an actuator system that removes the hairs and is adapted to be driven by an electric drive mechanism arranged in the hair removal apparatus. The actuator system is movable into at least one active position for hair treatment. The actuator head has only one of its ends rotatably mounted on the housing. The actuator head is readily accessible from the one side, thus enabling hairs in problem areas of the skin surface to be removed. |
| US08464427B2 |
Sleeve bearing assembly and method of construction
A sleeve bearing assembly and method of construction therefore has an inner portion constructed from a plurality of yarns to provide a journal bearing surface for receipt of a journal for relative movement therein and an elastic outer portion injection molded at least partially about the inner portion. The plurality of yarns are woven together with at least some of the yarns being woven in a warp direction corresponding to a length of the journal bearing surface and in a weft direction corresponding to a circumferential direction of the journal bearing surface to form a backing of the inner portion. At least one of the plurality of yarns is provided as a self-lubricating yarn woven with the backing in a weft direction to substantially form the bearing surface radially inwardly of the backing. |
| US08464425B2 |
Process for manufacturing a single-piece blisk with a temporary blade support ring removed before a milling step
A process for manufacturing a single-piece bladed disk, including: using an abrasive water jet to cut a block of material, so as to create blade preforms extending radially outwards from a disk, while keeping material forming a connecting mechanism between at least two directly consecutive blade preforms, the connecting mechanism being at a radial spacing from the disk; then removing the connecting mechanism; then milling the blade preforms. |
| US08464424B2 |
Automotive engine cooling pipe apparatus and method of use
A method of using an automotive engine cooling pipe apparatus for fluid-conducting installation within an engine block of an engine comprising a front tube having a proximal portion configured for at least partially slidably and sealably engaging a front sealing ring seated within a front opening of the engine block, and a rear tube telescopically engaged with the front tube and having a distal portion configured for at least partially slidably seating within a rear opening of the engine block, whereby expansion of the cooling pipe apparatus within the engine block seats the proximal and distal portions of the front and rear tubes within the respective front and rear openings of the engine block and so provides sliding and rotational resistance thereby stabilizing the installation of the cooling pipe apparatus within the engine block. |
| US08464421B2 |
Electronic component mounting device
A substrate conveyor track is provided with first to fourth conveyors. Two conveyors situated on both sides of the substrate conveyor track, and the other two conveyors situated at the center of the same. There is enabled selection of any one from a small substrate mounting mode for giving a single substrate conveyance width to the four conveyors and mounting electronic components on four small substrates having the single width; a large substrate mounting mode for actuating all movable conveyors to the center of the substrate conveyor track and mounting electronic components on two large substrates by the two conveyors; and a large-small-substrates mounting mode for bringing the two conveyors on one side of the substrate conveyor track, among the four conveyors, into the small substrate mounting mode and bringing one of the conveyors on the other side of the track into the large substrate mounting mode. |
| US08464419B2 |
Methods of and factories for thin-film battery manufacturing
Methods of and factories for thin-film battery manufacturing are described. A method includes operations for fabricating a thin-film battery. A factory includes one or more tool sets for fabricating a thin-film battery. |
| US08464417B2 |
Method for cover glass removal
Improved techniques are disclosed for disassembly of portable electronic devices. A portable electronic device can have a portable device housing having a cover piece. The techniques can apply controlled forces to remove the cover piece from the portable device housing. The controlled forces can include rotational and/or translational forces. The techniques allow for removal of the cover piece with little or no damage to the portable electronic device. For example, the cover piece can pertain to a glass cover member (e.g., cover glass) that forms an outer part of a portable device housing. |
| US08464412B2 |
Clutching jig
A clutching jig includes a first holding bar, a second holding bar, and a fixing means. The first holding bar has a first inner surface, a first end portion and a second end, an engaging portion projected from the first inner surface of the first end portion, and a first recess formed on the second end portion. The second holding bar includes a second inner surface, a third end portion, a fourth end portion, and a second recess formed on the fourth end portion. The fixing means fixes the first end portion with the third end portion. While the clutching jig is assembled, the first inner surface faces the second inner surface, and the engaging portion engages the second inner surface of the third end portion by the fixing means to form a gap between the first inner surface and the second inner surface. |
| US08464410B1 |
Rack type pipe feeder for a pipe fusion machine
A rack feeds sticks of pipe to a machine for serial fusion to the trailing end of a pipeline. Multiple independent spaced apart feeders support transverse bundles of sticks of pipe on beams. Legs which support the beams above the ground have jacks to vary the height and slope of the beams. The slope is set so that sticks tend to roll toward the lower front end of the beam where roller assemblies receive the sticks of pipe as they are manually rolled, one at a time, off the beams. All of the rack components are modular and interchangeably connectable so that the feeder can be quickly adapted for a variety of conditions and applications. |
| US08464409B2 |
Machine for shaping an eyeglass lens, the machine being provided with a turnable tool-carrier having a plurality of working tools mounted thereon
The machine includes: elements for supporting the lens and for driving it in rotation about a first axis of rotation, the rotation of the lens being driven by first driver element, a tool-carrier mounted to turn about a second axis of rotation, turning of the tool-carrier being driven by second driver element, a plurality of working tools mounted on the tool-carrier to rotate about tool axes, with at least two of the tools including tools for shaping the periphery of the lens for shaping having distinct tool axes, third driver element for driving relative spacing movements between the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation, swivel elements for enabling the tool-carrier to be pivoted relative to the first axis of rotation about a third axis of rotation that extends substantially transversely to the first axis of rotation. |
| US08464407B2 |
Quick release buckle with dual release
A buckle includes two pawls engageable by a tongue. A single spring controls the position of the pawls. The buckle has a manual primary release mode of operation. The buckle also has a secondary release mode of operation, in which the spring acts as a secondary release member for the pawls. This is actuated by pulling force exerted by a single point release lanyard of a quick release vest. |
| US08464402B2 |
Clamping lock for a tensioning means
A clamping lock for a tensioning means with a housing comprising two cheek parts arranged at a distance from each other, a stop web extending between the cheek parts and a pivot spindle likewise extending between the cheek parts and a comb element pivotably mounted on the pivot spindle of the housing. The clamping lock can be manufactured in a simple manner and at the same time has a compact, easily manageable design because there is a reinforcing insert at least in the region of the cheek parts of the stop web and of the pivot spindle of the housing, said reinforcing insert being surrounded by a plastics material casing and comprises a material which is firmer than the plastics material casing. |
| US08464401B2 |
Support device
A support device and method of installation is disclosed to help prevent the protrusion of a relatively rigid support structure end portion from garments such as bras, corsets, swimsuits, and other articles of clothing. The support device includes a base, a surrounding sidewall extending from the base with the surrounding sidewall terminating in an opening. The base and surrounding sidewall define an interior being operational to loosely receive the end portion of the support structure associated with the garment such as a bra underwire. The support device also includes a flange extending from the surrounding sidewall which is positioned to be oppositely disposed of the interior, wherein the flange is adapted to attach to the garment. |
| US08464399B2 |
Ergonomic anatomical assist system for handled devices
An ergonomic anatomical assist system for mounting on a handled receptacle device, having a hand grip disposed on a receptacle end of the device, the hand grip disposed on the device transversely to the handle and extending off the handle so that a user's palm can grasp the grip with palm facing up and opposite the receptacle. The system may further have a forearm support configured to cradle around at least a portion of the user's forearm, the support being disposed on a handle portion of the device that is spaced so as to distribute the load of the device over at least two spaced apart anatomical points, one being at the hand and the other along the forearm. |
| US08464398B2 |
Automobile and truck accessory
An accessory for an external side view mirror unit which has a frame for rigidly securing the accessory to the side view mirror unit. An upstanding handlebar extends from the frame to allow the driver of an automobile, truck, or similar motor vehicle to extend his or her arm from the motor vehicle and grasp the handlebar, thus acknowledging to passing motorcyclists that the driver of the motor vehicle is a fellow cyclist. |
| US08464396B2 |
Removable hidden hinge pin
Embodiments of the invention provide a hinge apparatus that can include a hinge body having a first portion and a second portion and a hinge pin. The hinge pin can include an axial portion and a gripping portion. The hinge body can include a recess in one of the first portion and the second portion. The recess in the hinge body can receive the gripping portion of the hinge pin to inhibit access to the gripping portion when the hinge body is in the closed position. The gripping portion can be removed from the recess as the hinge body is moved to the open position. |
| US08464391B2 |
Mop head fixation device and method
Various embodiments of a mop include a user-manipulatable control operable by a user to generate attachment of a mop pad to a mop head and/or release of the mop pad from the mop head. The user-manipulatable control can be located on a handle of the mop in some embodiments, and on the mop head in other embodiments. Also, an actuator coupled to the user-manipulatable control can be used to move one or more grips, magnet-carrying elements, slides, wings, or clamping members to releasably secure the mop pad to the mop head, or to selectively magnetize one or more magnets for release and/or attachment of the mop pad. |
| US08464379B1 |
Stretcher shade
The present invention features a stretcher shade system for patient protection during transition on stretcher. The shade is collapsible with a plurality of shade supporting frames pivotably connected together. The shade has a plurality of mounting clips to enable the shade removably mounted on any desired place on stretcher pole. The shade provides a convenience, secure and privacy protection for the patient, thus increase the functionality of the stretcher. |
| US08464377B1 |
Linen fastener
A linen fastener, including: a hub; and a magnet at least partially disposed within the hub. The hub is arranged to be placed against a first exterior surface of layered linens such that magnetic force from the magnet engages an element located on a second exterior surface of the layered linens, opposite the first exterior surface, to clamp the layered linens between the hub and the element. A method of fastening linen using a fastener including a hub and a magnet at least partially disposed within the hub, including: placing the hub against a first exterior surface of layered linens; engaging, with magnetic force from the magnet, an element located on a second exterior surface of the layered linens, opposite the first exterior surface; and clamping the layered linens between the hub and the element. |
| US08464376B1 |
Cover for a pillow or cushion
A cover for a pillow or cushion includes a first panel and a second panel. At least a portion of an outer periphery of the second panel is secured to at least a corresponding portion of an outer periphery of the first panel to form a cavity therebetween. A flap extends from a portion of the outer periphery of one of the first and second panels toward the cavity. First and second lateral edges of the flap are secured to a portion of the outer periphery of at least one of the first and second panels. At least one fastener is located proximate to the free edge of the flap. The fastener biases or holds the flap toward the interior surface of one of the first and second panels to at least partially surround and secure one of a pillow and a cushion within the cavity. |
| US08464371B1 |
Patient lifting device
A patient lifting apparatus is provided and which is operative to lift an injured person or patient from a lower area to an elevated position where the patient or injured person can be easily and safely transferred to a stretcher or other support device. The patient lifting apparatus includes a pair of side sections that are interconnectable. Each side section includes a lifting device and a lifting bar which is movable up and down. In a connected mode, the two side sections are connected together and the lifting bars include attachments for attaching to a patient support. Once attached to the patient support, the lifting bars via the lifting device are operative to lift the patient support upwardly generally between the two side sections where the patient can be transferred to a stretcher or other structure. |
| US08464370B2 |
Convertible furniture item
The present invention is directed to a furniture item having user-support frames that are convertible between a seat configuration and a bed configuration. In one embodiment, user-support frames include a head-support frame anchored by a link assembly to a furniture-item base and a back-support frame pivotably coupled to the head-support frame. The link assembly facilitates both pivoting and lateral shifting of the head-support frame relative to the furniture-item base. In the bed configuration, a cam and cam follower are disposed under the user-support frames, such that when the user-support frames laterally shift, the cam contacts the cam follower, thereby upwardly moving a junction at which user-support frames are hinged to one another. |
| US08464367B1 |
Protective apparel for firefighters and emergency responders
A protective apparel system for responders such as firefighters, civil defense, and defense workers is disclosed. Different aspects include a boot with a flange for forming a vapor/liquid tight seal with trousers, trousers that include a resistant barrier cuff for interfacing with a boot, and a resistant barrier liner that includes a gusset providing for expansion of the liner. |
| US08468608B1 |
Enforcing digital rights management in a heterogeneous environment
A DRM server parses a request received from a client for a content identifier and client classification information. The content identifier identifies the requested content and client classification information describes the capabilities of the client. The DRM server determines a policy for the requested content. The policy specifies rules for determining access rights for the content responsive to the capabilities of the client. The DRM server determines access rights for the requested content responsive to the capabilities of the client and the policy. The DRM manager then provides the requested content and the determined access rights to the client. |
| US08468606B2 |
Security handling based on risk management
A security device may receive information relating to a security event in a customer network. The security device may further determine, in response to receiving the information, a likelihood score that reflects a likelihood that the security event will succeed and an impact score that provides an indication of an impact that the security event will have on the customer network. The security device may also determine a risk score based on the likelihood score and the impact score, where the risk score provides an indication of a risk that the security event will affect the customer network. The security device may provide the risk score to a customer associated with the customer network. |
| US08468605B2 |
Identifying security vulnerability in computer software
Identifying a security vulnerability in a computer software application by identifying at least one source in a computer software application, identifying at least one sink in the computer software application, identifying at least one input to any of the sinks, determining whether the input derives its value directly or indirectly from any of the sources, determining a set of possible values for the input, and identifying a security vulnerability where the set of possible values for the input does not match a predefined specification of legal values associated with the sink input. |
| US08468604B2 |
Method and system for detecting malware
A method for protecting objects in a computer system against malware is disclosed. An object is analyzed to determine whether it is infected by malware, and if it is determined to be infected, a backup copy of the object is located in a backup of the objects. The infected object is replaced with the backup copy. |
| US08468603B2 |
Tiered object-related trust decisions
Adware and viruses are examples of objects that may be embedded in a web page or linked to a web page. When such an object is detected to be associated with a web page loading on a browser, an analysis may be performed to determine a trust level for the object. The object is suppressed based on the trust level. A prompt is displayed to advise a user that the object has been suppressed, and to provide an opportunity to interactively accept or decline activation of an action for the object. |
| US08468602B2 |
System and method for host-level malware detection
According to one embodiment, a computer-implemented method includes: accessing a set of configuration parameters, accessing a set of identifiers of files known not to be malware, and accessing a set of identifiers of files known to be malware. Further, the method includes: comparing a first file to the set of configuration parameters, determining that a first hash of the first file is not in the set of identifiers of files known not to be malware and that the first hash is not in the set of identifiers of files known to be malware, and sending the at least one file and information related to the at least one file to be analyzed for malware. The method includes deleting the set of configuration parameters, the set of identifiers of files known not to be malware, and the set of identifiers of files known to be malware after sending the first file. |
| US08468601B1 |
Method and system for statistical analysis of botnets
A method, and computer program product for updating botnets are described. A statistical method for analyzing the hosts that send out SPAM and updating botnets is provided. The proposed method uses the fact that a computer in a botnet has to distribute content using the activity patterns closely resembling the distribution patterns of other computers in the same botnet over the same time period. The distribution statistical data obtained for different sources are compared using approximation of graphical data. Based on comparison it is determined whether the computer belongs to a botnet and the botnet is updated accordingly. |
| US08468598B2 |
Password protection techniques using false passwords
A password manager may receive a password, and a false password generator may generate at least one false password, based on the password. A false password selector may store the at least one false password together with the password. A password handler may receive a login attempt that includes the at least one false password, and an attack detector may determine that the login attempt is potentially unauthorized, based on the receipt of the at least one false password. |
| US08468596B2 |
Work support apparatus for information processing device
To provide a work support apparatus capable of allowing an operator to safely and easily perform work requiring all or a part of a privilege, and concisely confirming the contents of the work later, a work support apparatus 100 includes: an application processing unit 101 for accepting a work application; an approval processing unit 102 for performing an approving process; a work monitoring unit 103 for controlling and monitoring an operation from the operator terminal 111; an approval number collecting unit 104 for collecting information relating to an unnecessary approval number; an approval number management information storage unit 105 for storing approval number management information; and an operation log storage unit 106 for storing an operation log. |
| US08468593B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for selecting privileges for use during a data collaboration session
In one embodiment, a plurality of electronic devices participating in a data collaboration session are detected. A group, of a plurality of groups, is determined to which each of the plurality of electronic devices is associated. At least some of the groups correspond to companies. Based on the determined group to which each of the plurality of electronic devices is associated, one or more limitations are identified that restrict the recording of data shared during the data collaboration session. The identified one or more limitations are enforced on only some of the plurality of electronic devices participating in the data collaboration session, such that electronic devices associated with a group that corresponds to the first company are allowed to record the data collaboration session, yet an electronic device associated with a group that corresponds to a second company is prevented from recording the data collaboration session. |
| US08468590B2 |
Rate limiting data traffic in a network
A network device coordinates with other devices in a network to create a distributed filtering system. The device detects an attack in the network, such as a distributed denial of service attack, and forwards attack information to the other devices. The devices may categorize data into one or more groups and rate limit the amount of data being forwarded based on rate limits for the particular categories. The rate limits may also be updated based on the network conditions. The rate limits may further be used to guarantee bandwidth for certain categories of data. |
| US08468588B2 |
Authentication tokens for use in Voice over Internet Protocol methods
Setup of a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) call is initiated and an authentication token is received for the VoIP call that is set up, that indicates that the VoIP call is authorized. The authentication token is inserted into packets for the VoIP call. The packets, including the authentication token therein, are transmitted into an IP network. The authentication token may be placed in an IP version 6 (IPv6) flowID field. |
| US08468584B1 |
Authentication code with associated confirmation words
An initiating user receives an authentication code and an associated confirmation word from a server system in response to an authentication code request. The initiating user initiates a communication session with an authenticating user and provides the authentication code to the authenticating user without providing the associated confirmation word to the authenticating user. The authenticating user is only able to obtain the associated confirmation word if the authentication code corresponds to an authentication code previously generated by the server system for the initiating user and no usage limitation on the authentication code has been reached. Subsequently, the initiating user receives a confirmation word from the authenticating user. The initiating user provides action instructions to the authenticating user when the confirmation word provided by the authenticating user corresponds to the associated confirmation word. |
| US08468583B2 |
Streamlined process for enrollment of multiple digital certificates
The enrollment process for purchasing multiple digital certificates configured using different cryptographic algorithms or hashing algorithms is streamlined. A certificate purchaser wishing to purchase two or more certificates is prompted to provide answers to common enrollment questions, such as the purchaser's contact information, payment details, web server software, and the like, using a simplified and streamlined enrollment process. Each certificate is optionally configured using a different hashing algorithm. |
| US08468578B1 |
Establishing access controls in a premise-based environment
Establishing access controls includes establishing a communication session between an unrecognized user identity of a user device and a destination system through an online access provider device that provides the user device with access to the destination system. The communication session is established from a premise having associated therewith one or more user identities that are recognized by the online access provider device, with at least two of the recognized user identities being associated with different access control levels. An access control level to apply to communications between the unrecognized user identity of the user device and the destination system is determined by applying an access control level established for one of the recognized user identities. The determined access control level is applied to communications between the unrecognized user identity of the user device and the destination system. |
| US08468577B1 |
Managed website system and method
A system and method for developing websites for members of an organization include configuring and storing organization content using a server computer associated with the organization, configuring and storing member content associated with the members of the organization using the server computer, screening member content based by applying an organization policy stored on the server computer to prohibit specified information from being included in member content, and delivering a web page having the enterprise content arranged with member content in response to a request by a user for viewing a webpage having a URL corresponding to one of the members of the organization. The systems and methods may also include storing a visibility level for specified member content that limits access to the specified member content only to authorized users within the organization, in a specified group, by password, or private to the member, for example. |
| US08468575B2 |
System for recursive recombination of streaming interactive video
A plurality of servers whose video output is coupled to video compression apparatus that transmits streaming interactive video to a plurality of users, with a feedback loop whereby the streaming interactive video is recursively combined within the video output of the plurality of servers. |
| US08468574B2 |
Audiovisual program content preparation method, and associated system
The object of the invention is an audiovisual program content preparation method. The inventive method comprises the following steps: a user group (5) is selected, sequences are selected from a chosen audiovisual program content feed, by identifying them using markers, the sequences are extracted using the markets for the chosen audiovisual program content feed, the extracted sequences are saved in a database (9) accessible to the users of said group (5). |
| US08468573B2 |
Method for reducing channel change time of internet protocol television (IPTV) and IPTV service provision server for implementing the same
The present invention provides a method for reducing channel change time of an IPTV and an IPTV service provision server for implementing the same, which comprise: determining the type of each of individual channels to be provided to a user and the number of additional intraframes required to be inserted into video data to be provided via the channels; inserting the additional intraframes corresponding to the determined number into the video data; encoding the video data; and transmitting the encoded video data to a first router or a second router according to the determined channel type, before receiving a channel request signal from the user. |
| US08468570B2 |
Method and system for memory PVR functions in a broadcast environment
A method and system for providing personal video recording functions to a client viewing a broadcast program in a multi-client network. To provide the PVR functions, predetermined storage limits are allocated for each client in a storage device on the network. Each client is permitted to execute the PVR functions if the client's stored broadcast programming has not reached the client's predetermined storage limit. Otherwise, the client is only permitted to view the broadcast program in real time or the stored broadcast program. A client may clear space in the client's allocated portion of the storage device by fast-forwarding through stored broadcast programming. |
| US08468565B2 |
Method and apparatus for displaying information in response to motion picture programming
Disclosed herein, in various embodiments, are methods and apparatus incorporating, among other things, the concept of using, in particular but without limitation, traditionally non-commercial programming as a medium for selling products or services on-line, and again in particular over the Internet. Using this concept, for example, an element identified in motion picture programming can be made identifiable by a viewer of the motion picture programming, and thereby enabling a viewer to determine the source, location, or other information referred to by the element. Using this concept, for example, a viewer viewing a soap opera is able to use a device to electronically select a element identified in the broadcast. In turn, information referred to by the content element can be displayed to the viewer, including purchase information. Using this particular concept of the invention, traditionally non-commercial programming can be efficiently used to indirectly advertise goods or services and offer them for sale on-line. |
| US08468564B2 |
Computer program product and method for providing interactive television advertising
A method of providing advertising from a central database server connected to a global computer network to distributed sites via interactive television. A representative icon is presented to a subscriber on a television screen indicating an advertisement. When a the icon is selected, an advertisement information detail is retrieved from storage in a local memory, or from the central database server and presented to the subscriber on the television screen. |
| US08468558B2 |
Method and apparatus for bandwidth consumption usage reporting of non-managed sources
Embodiments of the present invention may establish a set top box client based apparatus. The set top box client based apparatus may actively monitor content playback by the set top box. The set top box client based apparatus may subsequently report client playback state for non-managed sources to a service provider's policy or operation support systems (OSS). Embodiments of the invention may recognize that some service providers may use a policy system and OSS, while others will only utilize an OSS for resource management. |
| US08468555B2 |
Turntable for spindle motor and spindle motor having the same
A spindle motor having a turntable is disclosed, the spindle motor including: a bearing having a rotation hole; a bearing housing accommodating the bearing; a stator including a core secured at a periphery of the bearing housing and a coil wound on the core; a rotation shaft rotatably coupled to the bearing; a rotor coupled to the rotation shaft and including a magnet facing the core; a turntable body coupled to the rotation shaft and formed with a round groove at a bottom surface facing an upper surface accommodated by a disk; and a turntable including at least one ball accommodated in the round groove, where a rolling frictional coefficient between the turntable and the ball is in the range of 0.12˜0.16. |
| US08468551B2 |
Hypervisor-based data transfer
In a computer system having memory, at least one processor and a physical input-output adapter, the at least one processor generates logical partitions, including local logical partitions and an input-output logical partition. The logical partitions have respective local virtual adapters. The input-output logical partition has a shared virtual adapter configured to communicate with the physical input-output adapter, such that a plurality of the local logical partitions share the physical input-output adapter via the shared virtual adapter. The at least one processor provides communication for ones of the local virtual adapters of the local logical partitions directly with the physical input-output adapter by a hypervisor. |
| US08468549B2 |
Systems and methods for coordinating computing functions to accomplish a task using a configuration file and standardized executable application modules
Systems and Methods are provided for coordinating computing functions to accomplish a task. The system includes a plurality of standardized executable application modules (SEAMs), each of which is configured to execute on a processor to provide a unique function and to generate an event associated with its unique function. The system includes a configuration file that comprises a dynamic data store (DDS) and a static data store (SDS). The DDS includes an event queue and one or more response queues. The SDS includes a persistent software object that is configured to map a specific event from the event queue to a predefined response record and to indicate a response queue into which the predefined response record is to be placed. The system further includes a workflow service module, the work flow service module being configured to direct communication between the SDS, the DDS and each of the plurality of SEAMs. |
| US08468548B2 |
Multi-tenant, high-density container service for hosting stateful and stateless middleware components
A container service is capable of hosting large numbers of middleware components for multiple tenants. A central container manager controls a plurality of compute nodes. The central container manager receives middleware components from external devices or services and assigns the components to containers on one or more designated compute nodes. Each compute node has a container management agent and one or more containers. The container management agents activate and manage the appropriate number of containers to run the assigned middleware components. The container management agent assigns each container on its compute node a limited set of privileges to control access to shared resources. The central container manager and each node's container management agent monitor container load levels and dynamically adjust the placement of the middleware components to maintain balanced operation. The compute nodes are grouped into clusters based upon the type of middleware components hosted on each compute node. |
| US08468542B2 |
Virtual environment for server applications, such as web applications
An application virtualization system enables server applications, such as web applications to be easily deployable, separates an application and its state from the system, and allows applications to be easily moved to another server. The application virtualization system provides a way to isolate conflicts and allow multiple applications that provide conflicting information to run independently and avoid conflicts. The application virtualization system receives notification of an application preparation session and monitors the session to collect configuration information that the application uses to run on a client. The application virtualization system stores the collected information until the application to be virtualized is deployed. When an administrator later deploys the application, the system retrieves the stored information and uses the information and information from the client to reconstitute the metadata and virtualize the application. |
| US08468541B2 |
Event driven sendfile
A file transfer manager for managing file transfers using the sendfile operation. The sendfile operation is optimized to minimize system resources necessary to complete the file transfer. The sendfile decreases resources required during idle times by sharing a thread with other idle sendfile operations. The sendfile operation is then assigned a worker thread when further data is ready to be transfered. |
| US08468540B2 |
Interrupt and exception handling for multi-streaming digital processors
A multi-streaming processor has a plurality of streams for streaming one or more instruction threads, a set of functional resources for processing instructions from streams, and interrupt handler logic. The logic detects and maps interrupts and exceptions to one or more specific streams. In some embodiments, one interrupt or exception may be mapped to two or more streams, and in others two or more interrupts or exceptions may be mapped to one stream. Mapping may be static and determined at processor design, programmable, with data stored and amendable, or conditional and dynamic, the interrupt logic executing an algorithm sensitive to variables to determine the mapping. Interrupts may be external interrupts generated by devices external to the processor software (internal) interrupts generated by active streams, or conditional, based on variables. After interrupts are acknowledged, streams to which interrupts or exceptions are mapped are vectored to appropriate service routines. |
| US08468535B1 |
Automated system and method to provision and allocate hosting resources
Some embodiments provide a virtual machine hosting system. The virtual machine hosting system includes several nodes. Each node includes resources for hosting at least one virtual machine. The virtual machine hosting system includes a first management module for automatedly provisioning resources of the several to a several virtual machines by identifying a particular node with sufficient available resources to host a user-specified virtual machine configuration and by allocating to the virtual machine, an amount of resources of the particular node required to host said virtual machine. The virtual machine hosting system includes, at the particular node, a second management module for receiving the user-specified virtual machine configuration from the first management module and for configuring the allocated resources of the particular node to perform the virtual machine as specified within the user-specified virtual machine configuration. |
| US08468534B2 |
Dynamic priority queuing
Techniques are provided for dynamically re-ordering operation requests that have previously been submitted to a queue management unit. After the queue management unit has placed multiple requests in a queue to be executed in an order that is based on priorities that were assigned to the operations, the entity that requested the operations (the “requester”) sends one or more priority-change messages. The one or more priority-change messages include requests to perform operations that have already been queued. For at least one of the operations, the priority assigned to the operation in the subsequent request is different from the priority that was assigned to the same operation when that operation was initially queued for execution. Based on the change in priority, the operation whose priority has change is placed at a different location in the queue, relative to the other operations in the queue that were requested by the same requester. |
| US08468531B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficient inter-thread synchronization for helper threads
A monitor bit per hardware thread in a memory location may be allocated, in a multiprocessing computer system having a plurality of hardware threads, the plurality of hardware threads sharing the memory location, and each of the allocated monitor bit corresponding to one of the plurality of hardware threads. A condition bit may be allocated for each of the plurality of hardware threads, the condition bit being allocated in each context of the plurality of hardware threads. In response to detecting the memory location being accessed, it is determined whether a monitor bit corresponding to a hardware thread in the memory location is set. In response to determining that the monitor bit corresponding to a hardware thread is set in the memory location, a condition bit corresponding to a thread accessing the memory location is set in the hardware thread's context. |
| US08468523B2 |
Network apparatus and method for supporting network virtualization
A network apparatus and a network virtualization support method. The network apparatus may include a software-based virtualization unit to generate a software-based virtualization slice in association with another network apparatus; a hardware-based virtualization unit to generate a hardware-based virtualization slice in association with another network apparatus; and a virtualization control unit to activate the software-based virtualization unit or the hardware-based virtualization unit based on the user information of the user who requests generation of the virtualization slice. |
| US08468518B2 |
System and method for creating a customized installation on demand
A customized VM image, for example of Linux software, is created by allowing a user to select packages that the user is interested in installing. During the process, the user is informed if two of the packages that were selected will not be interoperable at run-time. The user is then given an opportunity to resolve the conflict. The user is also informed if selected packages depend on other packages that were not selected in order to run properly, and given the opportunity to include those needed packages in the VM image. Once the selected packages have been validated that they will interoperate and all dependencies are satisfied, the system can build and install the VM image. The VM image can also include applications, and not just packages used in assembling an operating system image. |
| US08468517B2 |
Concurrent upgrade of all components in storage subsystems
A plurality of upgraded components associated with an upgraded storage subsystem replaces a plurality of existing components associated with an existing storage subsystem. Support for a verify I/O command is created. A target volume is created in the upgraded storage subsystem having a same volume identification as a source volume. For a command received on the at least one of the plurality of upgraded components, the verify I/O command is invoked on at least one of a comparable one of the plurality of existing components. If the command is verified, the command is driven. The at least one of the plurality of upgraded components disguises a true volume identification of the target volume from the at least one of the plurality of existing components. |
| US08468513B2 |
Specification, abstraction, and enforcement in a data center operating system
An exemplary data center architecture includes a services abstraction, a data sources abstraction, an internal applications abstraction and a core administration abstraction for static and dynamic enforcement of data center polices based on compliance with a property set, a specification set or a property set and a specification set. Such an architecture can include a core administration abstraction with logic to install services and to upgrade services in a data center where a service must comply with the property set and the specification set prior to installation of the service or upgrade of the service in the data center. Various other devices, systems and methods are also described. |
| US08468508B2 |
Parallelization of irregular reductions via parallel building and exploitation of conflict-free units of work at runtime
An optimizing compiler device, a method, a computer program product which are capable of performing parallelization of irregular reductions. The method for performing parallelization of irregular reductions includes receiving, at a compiler, a program and selecting, at compile time, at least one unit of work (UW) from the program, each UW configured to operate on at least one reduction operation, where at least one reduction operation in the UW operates on a reduction variable whose address is determinable when running the program at a run-time. At run time, for each successive current UW, a list of reduction operations accessed by that unit of work is recorded. Further, it is determined at run time whether reduction operations accessed by a current UW conflict with any reduction operations recorded as having been accessed by prior selected units of work, and assigning the unit of work as a conflict free unit of work (CFUW) when no conflicts are found. Finally, there is scheduled, for parallel run-time operation, at least two or more processing threads to process a respective the at least two or more assigned CFUWs. |
| US08468504B2 |
Method and apparatus for interactive scheduling of VLIW assembly code
A method and apparatus for the manually optimizing the scheduling of code are disclosed. Accordingly, a software development tool with a graphical user interface enables manually ordering the scheduling of operations for architectures that execute multiple instructions/operations per machine cycle, such as very long instruction word (VLIW) processors. Assistance is provided at the instruction scheduling stage of VLIW compilation process to increase instruction level parallelism (ILP). The apparatus provides graphical views of assembly code and related information. An interactive, user friendly method to manipulate the code during or after scheduling is provided. The programmer can temporarily pause the automated scheduling, override decision taken by the scheduler, and then resume scheduling. The method lets the programmer interact graphically with scheduling decisions in a feedback environment. The method allows movement of only those operations that do not violate the target processor architectural constraints and algorithmic constraints of the code being optimized. |
| US08468492B1 |
System and method for creation and modification of software applications
Described herein is a system comprising an App Generator (application generator) comprising executable program instructions that define one or more constraints. The one or more constraints embody one or more rules for converting an information structure into one or more components of a software application. The system also includes a digital data processor executing said executable program instructions to: i. provide a user interface; ii. accept input data that defines the information structure; and iii. apply the one or more constraints to said input data to generate the one or more components of the software application. |
| US08468489B2 |
Computer aided design system and method
A computer aided design system comprises a dividing module, a storage, an interface creating module, a selecting module, and a display module. The dividing module divides the names into groups according to a predetermined rule. The group comprises a plurality of the targets set on the different layers. The storage records the relationship between the groups and the targets. The interface creating module creates a user interface base on the groups and selects at least one group in the same user interface from the operation of the user. The selecting module selects targets according to the selected groups. The display module displays the selected targets. |
| US08468488B1 |
Methods of automatically placing and routing for timing improvement
Methods and software for methods and software for placing and routing a signal path in an integrated circuit layout are disclosed. The signal path generally includes a plurality of cells and combinational paths having at least one net between said cells. The method includes determining whether an adjacent cell can be swapped with a selected cell (e.g., where the selected cell is one of the cells of the signal path and the adjacent cell is adjacent to the selected cell in the layout), determining whether a delay of the signal path decreases after swapping positions of the adjacent cell and the selected cell, and determining whether swapping the adjacent and selected cells causes a timing violation in another signal path of the layout. The present invention advantageously provides an automated method of improving the timing characteristics of poorly performing signal paths, without causing timing violations in other signal paths in the same integrated circuit. |
| US08468485B2 |
Integrated circuit, integrated circuit design device and integrated circuit design method
The disclosed integrated circuit includes a first and a second power supply wirings, a flip-flop circuit, and a switch element. The first and the second power supply wirings are connected to the common power supplies. The flip-flop circuit is required to hold the stored data even when the voltage supply from the power supplies to the integrated circuit is stopped. The flip-flop circuit is connected to the first power supply wiring. The switch element is a transistor, for example, and switches whether or not the voltage is supplied from the power supplies. The switch element is provided on the second power supply wiring. |
| US08468483B2 |
Method, system and program storage device for performing a parameterized statistical static timing analysis (SSTA) of an integrated circuit taking into account setup and hold margin interdependence
In embodiments of a statistical static timing analysis (SSTA) method, system and program storage device, the interdependence between the setup time and hold time margins of a circuit block (e.g., a latch, flip-flop, etc., which requires the checking of setup and hold timing constraints) is determined, taking into account possible variations in multiple parameters (e.g., using a variation-aware characterizing technique). A parameterized statistical static timing analysis (SSTA) of a circuit incorporating the circuit block is performed in order to determine, in statistical parameterized form, setup and hold times for the circuit block. Based on the interdependence between the setup and hold time margins, setup and hold time constraints can be determined in statistical parameterized form. Finally, the setup and hold times determined during the SSTA can be checked against the setup and hold time constraints to determine, if the time constraints are violated or not and to what degree. |
| US08468480B2 |
Method of designing a template pattern, method of manufacturing a template and method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
A method of designing a template pattern used for imprint lithography, includes generating data of a dummy template pattern to be formed in a third area between first and second areas of a template based on data of a design pattern of the template, the data of the dummy template pattern being generated so that a third surface area ratio showing a ratio of a surface area of the third area to an area of the third area is set smaller than a first surface area ratio showing a ratio of a surface area of the first area to an area of the first area and larger than a second surface area ratio showing a ratio of a surface area of the second area to an area of the second area. |
| US08468478B2 |
Methods for measurement and prediction of hold-time and exceeding hold time limits due to cells with tied input pins
Techniques for estimating a risk of incorrect timing analysis results for signal paths having cells with inputs tied together are described. Signal paths having cells with tied input pins are identified in a circuit. A timing analysis on the signal paths is run to identify the worst case delay through the signal paths. The risk to the signal paths of incorrect timing analysis results due to the cells with tied input pins is estimated by a tied input pin analysis tool. Metrics that quantify timing failure risk associated with signal paths is provided in the form of a set of equations. These equations are embedded into a process allowing automated multi-modal, multi power voltage temperature analysis for the identification of high risk paths. |
| US08468477B2 |
Logic modification synthesis for high performance circuits
A method for IC modification is disclosed. The method recognizes an original HDL file prescribing an original logic, an original netlist incorporating the original logic, and a new HDL file prescribing a new logic. The new logic comprises desired logic changes relative to the original logic. If a signal is different between the new HDL file and the original HDL file the method adds a user hint to both the original HDL file and the new HDL file. Using the original HDL file, the original netlist, the new HDL file, and the user hints, the method synthesizes a delta netlist for inserting into the original netlist, whereupon this insertion the original netlist will incorporate the new logic. |
| US08468468B2 |
Data transmission system, device, and method
There is provided a data transmission device, which comprises a user input reception unit, a display unit, a directory selection unit configured to select a directory from among a plurality of directories in a hierarchical directory structure in accordance with an input for directory selection, a lower directory acquisition unit configured to acquire information on lower directories belonging to the selected directory, a lower directory display control unit configured to display the acquired information on lower directories, a search unit configured to search the selected directory for target destination information matching an input for searching inputted through the user input reception unit, and a data transmission unit configured to perform data transmission in accordance with the searched target destination information. |
| US08468466B2 |
Radial menu selection with gestures
Embodiments of the invention are generally related to graphical user interfaces (GUIs), and more specifically to selecting items from a radial menu. More specifically, embodiments of the invention provide a complex set of gestures which, when performed using a screen pointer, facilitate fast and accurate selection of radial menu items from a radial menu. The gestures may generally involve a first movement of the screen pointer to activate a desired radial menu item, and a second predefined movement of the screen pointer within a predefined selection zone to select the radial menu item. |
| US08468464B2 |
Interactive electronically presented map
The present invention provides computerized systems and methods for providing electronically presented interactive area representation, such as a map, and information associated therewith. A user can select text, imagery, or other information presented on the map and associated with one or more items or locations, causing presentation of information relating to the associated one or more items or locations, such as appropriate contact information or a hyperlink to an appropriate Web site. Additionally or alternatively, a user can input or select, based on a query or otherwise, information relating to one or more items or locations associated with text, imagery, or other information presented on the map, causing presentation of an indication of one or more locations of the associated text, imagery, or other information on the map. A magnifier feature allowing internal navigation within the map can be provided. Additionally, animated images can appear to move over the map. |
| US08468463B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method and computer readable medium
The image processing apparatus is provided with: a display that displays an object; a receiving device that receives a specified position specified by a user on the display; a holding device that holds setting of a process for the object; a judgment device that judges whether or not the specified position received by the receiving device is included in the display areas of a plural objects overlappedly; and an execution device that executes the process for selecting the plural objects of which the display areas include the specified position received by the receiving device according to the setting held in the holding device, when the judgment device judges that the specified position received by the receiving device is included in the display areas of the plural objects overlappedly. |
| US08468461B2 |
Form-based user-configurable processing plant management system and method
A computer-implemented system and method for defining the processes in a processing plant are disclosed. In one embodiment, the system uses input forms to allow a user to define the processes, chemicals, process streams, and sampling points in the plant in a way that requires no programming code to be written by the person defining the plant. In one embodiment, the electronic form-based user-configurable system can be used to configure and manage multiple plants belonging to one organization. The plant definition can be used to log information about the plant. The logged information can be used to generate reports or charts. Logging, reporting, and charting can be managed using input forms and without the user needing to write any computer code. |
| US08468459B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of displaying information therein
A mobile terminal, computer program product and method of displaying information therein are disclosed, by which data stored in the mobile terminal can be uploaded to a website to be shared. The present invention includes a camera for taking a picture, a memory for storing data, a wireless communication unit for transmitting the data, a display displaying the data stored in the memory, and a controller controlling the data transmitted among the data stored in the memory to be displayed by being discriminated from the data not transmitted. |
| US08468453B2 |
User-selected media content blocking
Presented herein is a method of blocking user-selected media content, such as, for example, audio and/or video content. In the method, at least one media content stream is presented to a user, wherein the at least one media content stream includes multiple showings of an identifiable contiguous segment of media content. One example of such a segment may be a commercial or advertisement. While presenting a current showing of the segment of media content to the user, a command is received from a user to block the segment of media content from presentation to the user. In response to receiving the command, information identifying the segment of media content is generated. The at least one media content stream is analyzed using the information to detect subsequent showings of the segment of media content. Presentation of at least one of the subsequent showings of the segment of media content is prevented when detected in the at least one media content stream. |
| US08468442B2 |
System and method for rendering data
A method of viewing information associated with data in a spreadsheet, includes providing a document including data and information associated with the data, parsing the document to retrieve the associated information, processing the associated information to break the associated information down into at least one sentence, categorizing the at least one sentence to determine whether the at least one sentence corresponds to at least one category in a taxonomy corresponding to the data, assigning an association strength to the categorized at least one sentence, the association strength indicating a likelihood that the categorized at least one sentence actually corresponds to the at least one category in the taxonomy, filtering the at least one categorized sentence based on the association strength to determine whether to match the categorized at least one sentence with the at least one category in the taxonomy and outputting only the categorized at least one sentence matched with the at least one category in the taxonomy. |
| US08468439B2 |
Speed-optimized computation of cyclic redundancy check codes
Apparatus and methods for generating checksums may process two or more segments of a message in parallel, and may be used with a communications channel having time slots. An apparatus may include a cumulative checksum generator to generate a cumulative checksum for a message, a partial checksum generator to generate one or more partial checksums from one or more respective message segments, and a speculative checksum generator to generate a speculative checksum for each of one or more time slots. In one aspect, a partial checksum corresponding with an initial segment of the message may be generated from at least an initialization vector. A speculative checksum selector may select a first speculative checksum for use in determining whether the message was transmitted without error. The generating of partial and speculative checksums results in a maximally pipe-lined architecture with speed limited only by a minimal cumulative CRC calculation that is fundamentally unavoidable. |
| US08468438B2 |
Method and apparatus for elementary updating a check node during decoding of a block encoded with a non-binary LDPC code
Method of elementary updating a check node of a non-binary LDPC code during a decoding of a block encoded with said LDPC code, comprising receiving a first input message (U) and a second input message (V) each comprising nm doublets having a symbol and an associated metric, delivering an output message (S) possessing nm output doublets by computing a matrix of nm2 combined doublets on the basis of a combination of the doublets of the two input messages (U,V), and reducing the number of the combined doublets so as to obtain the nm output doublets of the output message (S) possessing the nm largest or lowest metrics. The method further includes tagging redundant symbols within each input message (U, V) and fixing same at a reference value, the value of the metric of each combined doublet resulting from a combination of at least one doublet comprising a tagged redundant symbol. |
| US08468432B2 |
Coder-decoder and method for encoding and decoding an error correction code
The invention provides a method for encoding and decoding an error correction code. First, raw data is received and then divided into a plurality of data segments. A plurality of short parities corresponding to the data segments is then generated according to a first generator polynomial. The short parities are then appended to the data segments to obtain a plurality of short codewords. The short codewords are then concatenated to obtain a code data. A long parity corresponding to the code data is then generated according to a second generator polynomial, wherein the first generator polynomial is a function of at least one minimum polynomial of the second generator polynomial. Finally, the long parity is then appended to the code data to obtain a long codeword as an error correction code corresponding to the raw data. |
| US08468431B2 |
System and method for multi-dimensional encoding and decoding
A system and method is provided for decoding a set of bits using a plurality of hypotheses, for example, each independently tested on-the-fly. Initial bit states and associated reliability metrics may be received for the set of bits. A current hypothesis may be decoded for correcting the set of bits, wherein the current hypothesis defines different bit states and associated reliability metrics for the set of bits. If decoding the current hypothesis is not successful, a subsequently ordered hypothesis may be decoded, wherein the hypotheses are ordered such that their associated reliability metric is a monotonically non-decreasing sequence. Decoding may proceed iteratively until the current hypothesis is successful. |
| US08468429B2 |
Reconfigurable cyclic shifter
In one embodiment, a reconfigurable cyclic shifter is selectively configurable to operate in (i) five-bit mode to cyclically shift N five-bit messages by up to N degrees or (ii) ten-bit mode to cyclically shift N ten-bit messages by up to N degrees. The reconfigurable cyclic shifter has two five-bit N/2-way non-reconfigurable cyclic shifters. The two non-reconfigurable cyclic shifters together, without additional hardware, do not perform N degrees of cyclic shifting. Thus, five-bit and ten-bit reordering hardware is provided that enables the reconfigurable cyclic shifter to perform up to N degrees of cyclic shifting in the five- and ten-bit modes, respectively. In the five-bit mode, the N five-bit messages are shifted concurrently, where each non-reconfigurable cyclic shifter shifts N/2 of the N messages. In ten-bit mode, N/2 of the N ten-bit messages are shifted concurrently, where each non-reconfigurable cyclic shifter shifts five of the ten bits of each ten-bit message. |
| US08468426B2 |
Multimedia-aware quality-of-service and error correction provisioning
Methods and apparatus for associating each data packet in a media stream with logic corresponding to a particular quality-of-service (QoS) and/or error correction requirement. In an exemplary embodiment, each packet in the media stream is assigned a frame tag which designates a particular quality-of-service and/or error correction scheme for the corresponding packet. At least a portion of each packet is encoded according to the packet's designated quality-of-service as indicated by the frame tag. A receiver accesses the frame tags from within the transmitted media stream in order to determine the appropriate means for processing or decoding the encoded portion of each packet. In this manner, each packet within the media stream can have its own quality-of-service and/or error correction requirements and processing, thereby enhancing link efficiency and better enforcing QoS policy across the system. |
| US08468425B2 |
Register error correction of speculative data in an out-of-order processor
In one embodiment, a processor comprises a first register file configured to store speculative register state, a second register file configured to store committed register state, a check circuit and a control unit. The first register file is protected by a first error protection scheme and the second register file is protected by a second error protection scheme. A check circuit is coupled to receive a value and corresponding one or more check bits read from the first register file to be committed to the second register file in response to the processor selecting a first instruction to be committed. The check circuit is configured to detect an error in the value responsive to the value and the check bits. Coupled to the check circuit, the control unit is configured to cause reexecution of the first instruction responsive to the error detected by the check circuit. |
| US08468423B2 |
Data verification using checksum sidefile
For facilitating data verification using a checksum in conjunction with a sidefile by a processor device in a computing environment, first block signatures having a first size are calculated for first blocks of a first volume stored on a storage device. The first block signatures are stored to a sidefile. Second block signatures having a second size different from the first size are calculated for second blocks of a second volume stored on the storage device. The second block signatures are stored to the sidefile. |
| US08468419B2 |
High-reliability memory
A memory circuit includes a memory including a plurality of primary memory elements, and an error correction circuit coupled to the memory and operative to detect an error in at least one of the primary memory elements and to provide corrected data corresponding to the primary memory element. The memory circuit further includes at least one spare memory element and a control circuit operative to replace at least one of the primary memory elements with the spare memory element as a function of results generated by the error correction circuit. |
| US08468417B2 |
Data integrity in memory controllers and methods
The present disclosure includes methods, devices, and systems for data integrity in memory controllers. One memory controller embodiment includes a host interface and first error detection circuitry coupled to the host interface. The memory controller can include a memory interface and second error detection circuitry coupled to the memory interface. The first error detection circuitry can be configured to calculate error detection data for data received from the host interface and to check the integrity of data transmitted to the host interface. The second error detection circuitry can be configured to calculate error correction data for data and first error correction data transmitted to the memory interface and to check integrity of data and first error correction data received from the memory interface. |
| US08468416B2 |
Combined group ECC protection and subgroup parity protection
A method and system are disclosed for providing combined error code protection and subgroup parity protection for a given group of n bits. The method comprises the steps of identifying a number, m, of redundant bits for said error protection; and constructing a matrix P, wherein multiplying said given group of n bits with P produces m redundant error correction code (ECC) protection bits, and two columns of P provide parity protection for subgroups of said given group of n bits. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the matrix P is constructed by generating permutations of m bit wide vectors with three or more, but an odd number of, elements with value one and the other elements with value zero; and assigning said vectors to rows of the matrix P. |
| US08468414B2 |
Method and apparatus for a wireless mobile system implementing beam steering phase array antenna
In a preferred embodiment, a wireless mobile system implementing Beam Steering Phased Array Antenna is disclosed having an array of [N×N] antennas mounting on the wireless mobile Terminal transmits unidirectional signals directly to the Base Station as opposed to transmitting multi-directional signals. The wireless mobile system implementing beam-steering phased array antenna, wherein the phases of the signals fed to the array antenna elements are varied by the phase shifters in small programmable step values calculated by the Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Phase Processor which causes the antennas radiation beam to be steered at angle θ. Thus, improvements in beam steering for transmitting unidirectional signals directly to the Base Station will greatly reduce the energy required by the wireless terminal for transmitting signals to the Base Station. And, the effective result would achieve our green-energy technology requirements. |
| US08468407B2 |
Method for creating test clock domain during integrated circuit design, and associated computer readable medium
In a method for creating a clock domain in a layout of an integrated circuit, a test circuit of the integrated circuit includes a plurality of first scan cells and a plurality of second scan cells, the first scan cells are arranged to be on a first scan chain, and the second scan cells are arranged to be on a second scan chain. The method includes: for a first region in the layout, determining whether the first region needs a test clock domain adjustment according to densities of first scan cells and second scan cells within the first region; and when it is determined that the first region needs the test clock domain adjustment, arranging at least one first scan cell within the first region to be on the second scan chain. |
| US08468406B2 |
Access port selector and gating selecting test access port
The disclosure describes a novel method and apparatuses for allowing a controller to select and access different types of access ports in a device. The selecting and accessing of the access ports is achieved using only the dedicated TDI, TMS, TCK, and TDO signal terminals of the device. The selecting and accessing of device access ports can be achieved when a single device is connected to the controller, when multiple devices are placed in a daisy-chain arrangement and connected to the controller, or when multiple devices are placed in a addressable parallel arrangement and connected to the controller. Additional embodiments are also provided and described in the disclosure. |
| US08468405B2 |
Integrated circuit testing
An integrated circuit 2 provided with multiple functional units 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 for performing data processing operations as part of advancing execution of a data processing task by the integrated circuit 2. Activity detection circuitry 26 determines which of these functional circuits is inactive at the given time. If a functional is inactive, then scan control circuitry 28 may perform a scan test operation thereon using an associated serial scan chain 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44. |
| US08468395B2 |
Framework for managing failures in outbound messages
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method and related network node including one or more of the following: receiving, at a policy and charging rules node (PCRN), a request from a requesting node for an establishment of a first service data flow (SDF); generating a first rule set for implementing the first SDF in response to the request; transmitting a first rule of the rule set to a first node for installation of the first rule; waiting for a period of time for a response from the first node; determining from the response whether installation of the first rule at the first node failed or succeeded; and if installation of the first rule succeeded, transmitting a second rule of the first rule set to a second node for installation of the second rule. |
| US08468394B2 |
Method of tracing selected activities within a data processing system by tagging selected items and tracing the tagged items
A data processing apparatus is disclosed, said data processing apparatus comprising a plurality of devices, trace logic associated with at least one of said plurality of devices, and tagging logic associated with at least one of said plurality of devices, said tagging logic being operable to: select at least one item, said at least one item comprising an activity to be monitored; provide said at least one selected item with tag data identifying said at least one item as an item to be monitored; and said trace logic being operable to: detect tagged items processed by said at least one device; and output trace information relating to at least some of said detected tagged items. |
| US08468393B2 |
Triggering diagnostic operations within a data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus is provided including diagnostic mechanism and comparator circuitry. The comparator circuitry is responsive to a signal indicative of execution of a block of program instructions to trigger any watchpoints or watch ranges within that block of program instructions. The relative ordering of the watchpoints or watch ranges is established by ordering characteristics associated therewith, such as programmable priority values, or an implicit ordering given by the storage location of the watchpoint or watch range. |
| US08468390B2 |
Provision of fault tolerant operation for a primary instance
Fault tolerant operation is disclosed for a primary instance, such as a process, thread, application, processor, etc., using an active copy-cat instance, a.k.a. backup instance, that mirrors operations in the primary instance, but only after those operations have successfully completed in the primary instance. Fault tolerant logic monitors inputs and outputs of the primary instance and gates those inputs to the backup instance once a given input has been processed. The outputs of the backup instance are then compared with the outputs of the primary instance to ensure correct operation. The disclosed embodiments further relate to fault tolerant failover mechanism allowing the backup instance to take over for the primary instance in a fault situation wherein the primary and backup instances are loosely coupled, i.e. they need not be aware that they are operating in a fault tolerant environment. As such, the primary instance need not be specifically designed or programmed to interact with the fault tolerant mechanisms. Instead, the primary instance need only be designed to adhere to specific basic operating guidelines and shut itself down when it cannot do so. By externally controlling the ability of the primary instance to successfully adhere to its operating guidelines, the fault tolerant mechanisms of the disclosed embodiments can recognize error conditions and easily failover from the primary instance to the backup instance. |
| US08468388B2 |
Restoring programs after operating system failure
A state restoration unit tracks opening and closing of programs within a computer operating system. Responsive to detecting opening and closing of programs, a state restoration structure is updated. After the computer operating system restarts from a failure, the state restoration structure is accessed. The state restoration unit restores those of the programs indicated as open in the state restoration structure. |
| US08468385B1 |
Method and system for handling error events
Method and system for managing error related events while a system is processing input/output (“I/O”) requests for accessing storage space is provided. Various components are involved in processing the I/O requests. Some of these components may also have sub-components. Events related to the various components are classified with respect to their severity levels. Threshold values for a frequency of these events is set and stored in a data structure at a memory location. When an event occurs, the severity level and the threshold value for the event are determined from the data structure. The actual frequency is then compared to the stored threshold value. If the threshold value is violated and there is an alternate path to route the I/O request, then the affected component is restricted and the alternate path is used to route the I/O request. |
| US08468383B2 |
Reduced power failover system
Embodiments include a power-efficient failover system. In one embodiment, a primary server is operable at one or more power states and is configured to dynamically generate a backup for the results of n executed program code while in a normal operating state. A redundant server is coupled to the primary server and is operable at the normal operating state or one or more reduced power states. The redundant server is also configured to dynamically receive the backup from the primary server and, in response to a failure of the primary server, to assume the workload of the primary server according to the backup. A controller manages the power state of the redundant server. |
| US08468382B2 |
Methods and equipment for fault tolerant IP service
An Internet Protocol (IP) terminal, comprises communication means for communicating via an IP network, a processor and memory. The memory contains an operating software for the IP terminal and the processor is configured to execute the operating software. The operating software comprises a normal mode logic for implementing a normal mode operation and a restricted mode logic for implementing a restricted mode operation. The normal mode logic comprises program code for initiating a call of a first type under control of instructions from one or more dedicated servers. The restricted mode logic comprises program code for collecting connection information of other IP terminals and for initiating a call of a second type without instructions from the one or more dedicated servers. |
| US08468381B2 |
Integrated circuit package with multiple dies and a synchronizer
A package includes a first die and a second die. The dies are connected to each other through an interface. The interface is configured to transport both control signals and memory transactions. A synchronizer is provided on at least one of said first and second of said dies. The synchronizer is configured to cause any untransmitted control signal values to be transmitted across the interface. |
| US08468370B2 |
Systems, methods and devices for control of the operation of data storage devices using solid-state memory and monitoring energy used therein
A variety of data storage devices, methods and systems are implemented for control of memory associated with backup functionality. One such data storage device includes a power circuit that provides main power. The data storage device has a first solid-state memory circuit that maintains data in the absence of electrical power. A second memory circuit is subject to data loss in the absence of electrical power. A storage circuit stores energy and provides the stored energy to the second memory circuit in response to a loss of main power. A test circuit discharges a portion of the stored energy to provide output data indicative of power-providing capabilities of the storage circuit. A memory controller controls data transfers to the data storage device by temporarily storing data destined for the first solid-state memory circuit and setting the amount of memory available for temporary storage in response to the output data. |
| US08468369B2 |
System, method and apparatus for controlling the dissemination of digital works
A system, business methodology and apparatus for facilitating controlled dissemination of digital works is disclosed. An audio and video organizer, entertainment, and communication unit that plays back audio and video media content received from a central storage server. The unit relies on a smartcard, which has a personalized key that unlocks encrypted content. Using the unit, a user can purchase music or other types of media using an appropriate ordering method. The central storage server then transmits a double-encrypted, compressed audio file to the unit, where it is decrypted based on the smartcard key, and available for listening. |
| US08468367B2 |
Storage apparatus and authentication method
A storage apparatus includes a key control part to judge a validity of a data access from a request source based on authorization information received therefrom and authorization information created from an enciphering key included in enciphering key information received from a key management apparatus, and a control part to make the data access to the recording medium using the enciphering key in response to an access request from the request source, if the validity of the data access is confirmed. The authorization information from the request source includes a unique code created from the enciphering key if an authentication is successful in the key management apparatus in response to an authentication request from the request source. |
| US08468362B2 |
System and method for providing access to an information handling system
An information handling system includes a memory and a detector circuit. The memory is configured to store a first electrocardiogram measurement. The detector circuit is configured to receive a second electrocardiogram measurement in response to a specific combination of keys of a keyboard being pressed for a specific period of time, wherein each key in the specific key combination includes an electrocardiogram sensor on a top surface of the key, to authorize a user and log the user onto the information handling system when the second electrocardiogram measurement matches the first electrocardiogram measurement, and otherwise: to deny access to the information handling system; to increase a counter; to determine whether the counter has exceeded a threshold; and to request that an input window is displayed when the counter has exceeded the threshold. |
| US08468357B2 |
Multiple step identification of recordings
Multiple information is extracted from an unknown recording and information associated therewith. Associated information includes the filename, if the recording is a computer file in, e.g., MP3 format, or table of contents (TOC) data, if the recording is on a removable medium, such as a compact disc. At least one and preferably several algorithmically determined fingerprints are extracted from the recording using one or more fingerprint extraction methods. The information extracted is compared with corresponding information in a database maintained for reference recordings. Identification starts with the most accurate and efficient method available, e.g., using a hash ID, a unique ID or text. Fingerprint matching is used to confirm other matches and validation is performed by comparing the duration of the unknown and a possibly matching reference recording. |
| US08468352B2 |
Retrieving and using cloud based storage credentials
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for retrieving and using cloud based storage credentials. Embodiments of the invention include automatically retrieving cloud based credentials (e.g., storage keys) as needed, such as, for example, on demand. Automatically retrieving credentials reduces administrator workloads and mitigates the potential for human errors. Embodiments of the invention also include using credentials (e.g., storage keys) in the deployment and ongoing operation of services (e.g., computing workers) in a resource cloud. Embodiments of the invention also include propagating credentials (e.g., storage keys) to instances running in the cloud during deployment. |
| US08468346B2 |
Data reference system, database presentation/distribution system, and data reference method
An element-data generating device encrypts respective vectors each including plural pieces of data, generates a vector including encrypted texts, and outputs such a vector as element data. A database generating system has plural first distributed devices and outputs a sequence of all pieces of element data as a database. A database presentation system has plural second distributed devices, generates, based on a reference item specifying an item to be referred, plural sequences of data to be referred from the database, and performs order shuffling of individual elements of the sequences of the data by all of the second distributed devices so that the order shuffling of the elements of the data sequence is consistent throughout all data sequences. |
| US08468344B2 |
Enabling multi-level security in a single-level security computing system
According to an embodiment, a system may comprise a mass storage device that is operable to be coupled to one or more processors. The mass storage device may comprise a base operating system that is operable to be executed by the one or more processors. The base operating system may be operable to implement a single security level. The mass storage device may also comprise a virtual operating system that is operable to be executed by the one or more processors. The virtual operating system may be executed using a virtualization tool that is executed by the base operating system. The virtual operating system may be operable to process information according to a plurality of security levels and communicate the information to one or more computing systems. The information may be communicated according to the plurality of security levels of the information. |
| US08468340B2 |
Configuring a valid duration period for a digital certificate
A valid duration period for a digital certificate is established by a process that includes assigning numeric values to certificate term. The numeric value assigned to each certificate term is representative of the valid duration period. The method continues by identifying one certificate term, which may include requesting a user to select a certificate term. The method may include transmitting the requested certificate term to a server. The certificate term requested is sent via a certificate request. The server is configured to convert the numeric value associated with the requested certificate term into a duration counter value. The method may also include a certificate server receiving from the server, the certificate request including the duration counter value. The method may conclude with transmitting the signed certificate request to a client device capable of generating the digital certificate with the requested certificate term. |