Document Document Title
US08507550B2 Treatment for altitudinal hypoxia
The invention provides a method for treating hypoxia caused by high altitude by administering to a subject a compound that reduces the P50 of hemoglobin for oxygen.
US08507548B2 Method for treating addiction using quercetin-containing compositions
This invention relates to a method of treating addiction using a composition containing quercetin. Preferably, it also contains vitamin B3, and vitamin C.
US08507544B2 Bi-aryl amide compounds as CRTh2 receptor modulators
The present invention relates to (2S)-2-({3′-Chloro-4′-[(2,2-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl) carbonyl]-5-fluorobiphenyl-2-yl}oxy)propanoic acid and (2R)-2-({3′-chloro-4′-[(2,2-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl) carbonyl]-5-fluorobiphenyl-2-yl}oxy)propanoic acid of formula (I), and crystalline forms and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof useful as pharmaceuticals.
US08507541B2 N-hydroxyamidinoheterocycles as modulators of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase
The present invention is directed to N-hydroxyamidino compounds which are modulators of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), as well as compositions and pharmaceutical methods thereof.
US08507539B2 Potassium channel blockers and uses thereof
The present invention relates to compounds useful in the modulation of potassium channel activity in cells, in particular the activity of Kv1.3 channels found in T cells. The invention also relates to the use of these compounds in the treatment or prevention of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods for their preparation.
US08507528B2 2-alkyl-indazole compounds for the treatment of certain cns-related disorders
2-Alkyl-indazole compound and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts of acid addition, method and intermediates for preparing them, a pharmaceutical composition containing them and use of the latter. The 2-alkyl-indazole compound has the following general formula (I) in which R1, R2, R3, R4, R6, R7, X, Y, W, n, p, and m have the meanings stated in the description.
US08507527B2 Method for stabilizing anti-dementia drug
The present invention provides a method for stabilizing an anti-dementia drug in a pharmaceutical composition containing the anti-dementia drug and a high molecular weight basic substance by adding a high molecular weight acidic substance to said pharmaceutical composition. Further, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition containing an anti-dementia drug and a high molecular basic substance in which a high molecular weight acidic substance is contained for stabilizing the anti-dementia drug. Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a pharmaceutical composition which comprises steps wherein a solution or suspension containing a high molecular weight acidic substance is added to a mixture of an anti-dementia drug and a high molecular weight basic substance for the sake of stabilizing the anti-dementia drug.
US08507522B2 Hepatitis C virus inhibitors
The present invention discloses compounds of Formula (I), or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, or prodrugs thereof: which inhibit RNA-containing virus, particularly the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Consequently, the compounds of the present invention interfere with the life cycle of the hepatitis C virus and are also useful as antiviral agents. The present invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the aforementioned compounds for administration to a subject suffering from HCV infection. The invention also relates to methods of treating an HCV infection in a subject by administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compounds of the present invention.
US08507517B2 Forms of rifaximin and uses thereof
Embodiments relate to Rifaximin polymorphic, salt, and hydrate forms, methods of producing polymorphic forms and to their use in medicinal preparations and to therapeutic methods using them.
US08507516B2 Azabicyclic compounds as alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands
The disclosure provides compounds of formula I, including their salts, as well as compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds are ligands for the nicotinic α7 receptor and may be useful for the treatment of various disorders of the central nervous system, especially affective and neurodegenerative disorders.
US08507510B2 Sulfoximine-substituted pyrimidines as CDK- and/or VEGF inhibitors, their production and use as pharmaceutical agents
This invention relates to pyrimidine derivatives of general formula I in which Q, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, X, and m have the meanings that are contained in the description, as inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases and VEGF-receptor tyrosine kinases, their production as well as their use as medications for treatment of various diseases.
US08507509B2 Saturated and insaturated bi- or tricyclic aryloxyacetamine derivatives and their use as fungicides
Compounds of the general formula (I), wherein the substituents are as defined in claim 1, are useful as fungicides.
US08507504B2 Process for producing bicycloaniline derivatives
The present invention relates to a process for producing a hydrate of 3-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-4-imino-7-[(2′-methyl-2′,3′-dihydro-1′H-spiro[cyclopropane-1,4′-isoquinolin]-7′-yl)amino]-3,4-dihydropyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidin-2(1H)-one (Compound A) or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of Compound A and a crystalline form of Compound A or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of Compound A, which are useful in the field of treatment of various cancers as a kinase inhibitor, especially as a Weel kinase inhibitor.
US08507503B2 Thienopyrimidinedione derivatives as TRPA1 modulators
The present invention is related to novel thienopyrimidinedione derivatives as TRPA (Transient Receptor Potential subfamily A) modulators. In particular, compounds described herein are useful for treating or preventing diseases, conditions and/or disorders modulated by TRPA1 (Transient Receptor Potential subfamily A, member 1). Also provided herein are processes for preparing compounds described herein, intermediates used in their synthesis, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for treating or preventing diseases, conditions and/or disorders modulated by TRPA1.
US08507496B2 Treatment of diseases
The invention provides (i) a method of treating metabolic syndrome in an animal, (ii) a method of suppressing the appetite of an animal, (iii) a method of treating obesity in an animal, (iv) a method of reducing the weight of an animal in need thereof, (v) a method of reducing a blood lipid level in an animal in need thereof, (vi) a method of treating non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in an animal, and (vii) a method of inhibiting adipogenesis. The methods comprise administering an effective amount of an active ingredient, wherein the active ingredient comprises a diketopiperazine, a prodrug of a diketopiperazine or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt of either of them to the animal. The invention also provides a kit comprising a container holding a diketopiperazine, a prodrug of a diketopiperazine or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt of either of them; and instructions for administration. The diketopiperazines have the formula given in the application.
US08507494B2 Heterocyclic quinolizine derived M1 receptor positive allosteric modulators
The present invention is directed to novel 3-oxo-2,3-dihydropyrazolo[4,3-c]quinolizine derived compounds of generic formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, which are M1 receptor positive allosteric modulators and that are useful in the treatment of diseases in which the M1 receptor is involved, such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, pain or sleep disorders. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and to the use of the compounds and compositions in the treatment of diseases mediated by the M1 receptor.
US08507493B2 Amide and amidine derivatives and uses thereof
The present invention relates to inhibitors of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 enzyme and their use in treatment of non-insulin dependent type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, obesity, lipid disorders, metabolic syndrome, central nervous system disorders, and diseases and conditions that are related to excessive glucocorticoids.
US08507492B2 Pyrazino[2,3-b]pyrazine mTOR kinase inhibitor for oncology indications and diseases associated with the mTOR/PI3K/AKT pathway
Provided herein are Heteroaryl Compounds having the following structure: wherein R1-R4 are as defined herein, compositions comprising an effective amount of a Heteroaryl Compound and methods for treating or preventing cancer, inflammatory conditions, immunological conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, obesity, neurological disorders, age-related diseases, or cardiovascular conditions, comprising administering an effective amount of a Heteroaryl Compound to a patient in need thereof.
US08507490B2 Tetrasubstituted pyridazine hedgehog pathway antagonists
The present invention provides novel tetrasubstituted pyridine hedgehog pathway antagonists of the following formula I (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: X is C—R1 or N; R1 is hydrogen, fluoro or cyano; R2 is formula II (II), piperidinyl, or gem di-F-substituted cyclohexyl; R3 is methyl or trifluoromethyl; R4 is pyrrolidinyl, morpholinyl or pyridyl, amino or dimethylamino; R5 is trifluoromethyl or methylsulfonyl; R6 is hydrogen or methyl; and R7, R8, R9, R10 and R11 are independently hydrogen fluoro, cyano, chloro, methyl, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethoxy or methylsulfonyl, provided that at least two of R7, R8, R9, R10 and R11 are hydrogen useful in the treatment of cancer.
US08507489B2 Bicyclic triazoles as protein kinase modulators
The present disclosure provides bicyclic triazole protein kinase modulators and methods of using these compounds to treat diseases mediated by kinase activity.
US08507486B2 Pyridopyrazine derivatives, process of manufacturing and uses thereof
1-ethyl-3-[3-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-pyrido[2.3-b]pyrazine-6-yl]thiourea which HAS activity to the modulation of misdirected cellular signal transduction processes such as tyrosine kinases, serine/threonine kinases and/or lipid kinases.
US08507484B2 Preventive and/or therapeutic agent for neutrophilic inflammatory diseases
The present invention provides a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for neutrophilic inflammatory diseases which comprises, as an active ingredient, a bicyclic heterocyclic compound represented by formula (I): [wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, or the like, A1-A2-A3-A4 represents N═CR3—CR4═CR5 (wherein R3, R4, and R5 are the same or different and each represents a hydrogen atom, substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl, and the like), Q represents substituted or unsubstituted phenylene, and the like, and T represents substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aroyl, and the like].
US08507483B2 1H-pyrimidin-2-one derivatives, preparation thereof and pharmaceutical use thereof as inhibitors of AKT (PKB) phosphorylation
The invention relates to the novel products of formula (I): in which Z represents —O—, —NH or Nalk; n represents 0 to 4; R1 represents Hal, hydroxyl, alkyl or alkoxy; the alkyl and alkoxy radicals being optionally substituted; R2 and R3 represent H, Hal or alkyl optionally substituted with one or more halogen atoms; R4 represents H; these products being in all the isomer forms and the salts, as medicaments, in particular as inhibitors of AKT(PKB) phosphorylation.
US08507479B2 Aminodihydrothiazine derivatives substituted with a cyclic group
This invention provides a compound of the formula (I): wherein the ring A is an optionally substituted carbocyclic group or an optionally substituted heterocyclic group; R1 is optionally substituted lower alkyl, optionally substituted lower alkenyl, optionally substituted lower alkynyl; R2a and R2b are each independently hydrogen, optionally substituted lower alkyl or optionally substituted acyl; R3a, R3b, R3c and R3d are each independently hydrogen, halogen, hydroxy or optionally substituted lower alkyl etc.; a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, which is useful for treating diseases induced by production, secretion and/or deposition of amyloid β protein.
US08507473B2 3H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridin-5-ol derivatives useful in the treatment of GPR81 receptor disorders
The present invention is directed to certain 3H-imidazo[4,5-b]pyridin-5-ol derivatives of Formula (Ia) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which exhibit useful pharmacological properties, for example, as agonists of the GPR81 receptor. Also provided by the present invention are pharmaceutical compositions containing compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and compositions of the invention in the treatment of GPR81 associated disorders, for example, dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, atheromatous disease, hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes, syndrome X, obesity, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, transplant rejection, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis, type 1 diabetes and acne.
US08507472B2 Bicyclic pyridinylpyrazoles
Bicyclic pyridinylpyrazoles of the formula (I) in which the symbols have the meanings given in the description and agrochemically active salts thereof and their use for controlling unwanted microorganisms in crop protection and the protection of materials and for reducing mycotoxins in plants and plant parts, and also processes for preparing compounds of the formula (I).
US08507471B2 Biphenylcarboxamide derivatives as hedgehod pathway modulators
The invention provides a method for modulating the activity of the hedgehog signaling pathway. In particular, the invention provides a method for inhibiting aberrant growth states resulting from phenotypes such as Ptc loss-of-function, hedgehog gain-of-function, smoothened gain-of-function or Gli gain-of-function, comprising contacting a cell with a sufficient amount of a compound of Formula I.
US08507468B2 Intranasal anti-convulsive compositions and methods
Contemplated pharmaceutical compositions comprise a benzodiazepine anti-convulsive compound for intranasal administration in a single phase, multi-component solvent system with water content of at least 15 vol % and a benzodiazepine concentration of at least 30 mg/ml. It is noted that contrary to common expectation, the concentration of the anti-convulsive compound was increased by increasing water content in the multi-component solvent. Moreover, the anti-convulsive compound remained chemically stable and substantially completely dissolved over large periods of time. Thus, stable and highly concentrated spray formulations for intranasal administration could be prepared having sufficiently high concentrations of the anti-convulsive compounds that now allow single spray administration to achieve clinically relevant dosages.
US08507465B2 Antiemetic-oral contraceptive combination
The present invention relates to a method of reducing the incidence of nausea and vomiting associated with the administration of oral contraceptive formulation and a method of preparation of oral contraceptive formulation comprising progestin and/or estrogen and an antiemetic. The preferred oral contraceptive formulation comprises of levonorgestrel and an antiemetic.
US08507463B2 Nucleotide analogue prodrug and the preparation thereof
The present invention provides: 1) Derivative solid form of 9-[2-(R)-[bis[pivaloyloxymethoxy]-phosphinylmethoxy]propyl]adenine (bis-POM PMPA, abbreviated as TD hereinafter), including crystalline form A and form B of TD, TD fumarate salts and cyclodextrin inclusion complex of TD; 2) Synthesis and purification methods of TD and Solidification method of TD oil, including converting TD oil to crystalline TD in Form A and Form B, solid TD salts and cyclodextrin inclusion complex of TD; 3) Stable pharmaceutical compositions containing TD derivatives and their preparation; 4) The use of the above TD derivatives in the antiviral treatments, especially in the treatment of HIV, HBV, CMV, HSV-1, HSV-2 and human Herpes virus infections.
US08507462B2 Compositions and uses thereof
Methods of controlling serum glucose levels in an individual are described, the methods including the step of administering to said individual a therapeutic food composition comprising a waxy and/or hydrothermally treated starch. The method may be used to treat or prevent hypoglycaemia in patients susceptible to hypoglycaemic episodes, for example patients with glycogen storage disease, diabetes or liver disease. The method may also be used in sports nutrition. Also described are compositions for use in the methods.
US08507455B2 Folate conjugates
The present invention provides iRNA agent including at least one monomer having the structure shown in formula (I′) wherein: A and B are each independently for each occurrence O, N(RN) or S; X is H, a protecting group, a phosphate group, a phosphodiester group, an activated phosphate group, an activated phosphite group, a phosphoramidite, a solid support, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-nucleoside, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-oligonucleotide, a lipid, a PEG, a steroid, a polymer, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-L6-Q′-L7-OP(Z′″)(Z′″″)O-oligonucleotide, a nucleotide, or an oligonucleotide; Y is H, a protecting group, a phosphate group, a phosphodiester group, an activated phosphate group, an activated phosphite group, a phosphoramidite, a solid support, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-nucleoside, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-oligonucleotide, a lipid, a PEG, a steroid, a lipophile, a polymer, —P(Z′)(Z″)O-L6-Q′-L7-OP(Z′″)(Z′″″)O-oligonucleotide, a nucleotide, or an oligonucleotide; R is folate, a folate analog a folate mimic or a folate receptor binding ligand; L6 and L7 are each independently for each occurrence —(CH2)n—, —C(R′)(R″)(CH2)n—, —(CH2)nC(R′)(R″)—, —(CH2CH2O)mCH2CH2—, or —(CH2CH2O)mCH2CH2NH—; Q′ is NH, O, S, CH2, C(O)O, C(O)NH, —NH—CH(Ra)—C(O)—, —C(O)—CH(Ra)—NH—, CO, where Ra is H or amino acid side chain; R′ and R″ are each independently H, CH3, OH, SH, NH2, NH(Alkyl=Me, Et, Pr, isoPr, Bu, Bn) or N(diAlkyl=Me2, Et2, Bn2); Z′, Z″, Z′″ and Z″″ are independently O or S; n represent independently for each occurrence 1-20; and m represent independently for each occurrence 0-50.
US08507454B2 Methods and unit dose formulations for the inhalation administration of aminoglycoside antibiotics
A patient suffering from an endobronchial infection is treated by administering to the patient for inhalation a dose of less than about 4.0 ml of a nebulized aerosol formulation comprising from about 60 to about 200 mg/ml of an aminoglycoside antibiotic, such as tobramycin, in a physiologically acceptable carrier in a time period of less than about 10 minutes. Unit dose devices for storage and delivery of the aminoglycoside antibiotic formulations are also provided.
US08507450B2 Crystalline forms of 1-chloro-4-(β-D-glucopyranos-1-yl)-2-[4-ethynyl-benzyl)-benzene, methods for its preparation and the use thereof for preparing medicaments
The invention relates to a crystalline hydrate of 1-chloro-4-(β-D-glucopyranos-1-yl)-2-(4-ethynyl-benzyl)-benzene and to crystalline complexes between 1-chloro-4-(β-D-glucopyranos-1-yl)-2-(4-ethynyl-benzyl)-benzene and a natural amino acid, to methods for the preparation thereof, as well as to uses thereof for preparing medicaments.
US08507437B2 Apoptosis-modulating p53 protein therapy for vascular disorders and nanoparticles containing the same
Protein containing nanoparticles and methods of use thereof for the treatment of proliferative disorders are disclosed.
US08507436B2 Peptides derived from plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and uses thereof
The present invention relates to isolated 18-mer peptides corresponding to amino acid residues 369-386 of human plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and fragments thereof, compositions that include such peptides, and uses of such compositions for treating thromboembolic diseases and pathological conditions associated with neurological damage.
US08507435B2 Juvenile hemochromatosis gene (HFE2A) cleavage products and uses thereof
Isolated fragments of the HFE2A protein able to bind and modulate HFE2A and other proteins, such as hepcidin, involved in the iron metabolism pathway are disclosed. Also disclosed are corresponding isolated polynucleotides encoding the fragments of the HFE2A protein. Methods for identifying modulators of HFE2A, comprising contacting a test compound with HFE2A and determining a change in HFE2A activity due to the compound, are provided. Also taught are methods of diagnosing an animal afflicted with or at risk of developing a disease of iron metabolism. Methods for treating and/or preventing a disorder in animals comprising administering to an animal afflicted therewith, or at risk of developing said disorder, a therapeutically effective amount of an HFE2A modulator are provided.
US08507434B2 Peptide modulators of angiogenesis and use thereof
Compositions and methods that are useful for modulating blood vessel formation, as well as methods that provide for the systematic and efficient identification of angiogenesis modulators are described. As discussed in more detail below, a systematic computational methodology based on bioinformatics was used to identify novel peptide modulators of angiogenesis that have been characterized in vitro and/or in vivo.
US08507432B2 Controlled release formulations of octreotide
A formulation of octreotide or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which provides controlled release of a therapeutically effective amount of octreotide for a period of at least about two months. Methods of treating acromegaly, decreasing growth hormone, decreasing IGF-1, and treating conditions associated with carcinoid tumors and VIPomas by administering a controlled release formulation of octreotide are provided herein.
US08507431B2 Methods for accelerating wound healing by administration of a preadipocyte modulator or an adipocyte modulator
Methods for inducing or accelerating a healing process of a damaged skin or skin wounds are described. The methods include administering to the skin cells colonizing the damaged skin or skin wound a therapeutically effective amount of an adipokine, an adipocyte or preadipocyte modulator, adipocytes, preadipocytes, or stem cells, or transforming the skin cells colonizing the damaged skin or skin wound such as to express and secrete an adipokine, thereby inducing or accelerating the healing process of the damaged skin or skin wound.
US08507426B2 Peptides and related molecules that bind to TALL-1
The present invention concerns therapeutic agents that modulate the activity of TALL-1. In accordance with the present invention, modulators of TALL-1 may comprise an amino acid sequence Dz2Lz4 wherein z2 is an amino acid residue and z4 is threonyl or isoleucyl. Exemplary molecules comprise a sequence of the formulae (SEQ ID NO: 100) a1a2a3CDa6La8a9a10Ca12a13a14, (SEQ ID NO: 104) b1b2b3Cb5b6Db8Lb10b11b12b13b14Cb16b17b18 (SEQ ID NO: 105) c1c2c3Cc5DC7Lc9c10c11c12c13c14Cc16c17c18 (SEQ ID NO: 106) d1d2d3Cd5d6d7WDd10Ld13d14d15Ld16d17d18 (SEQ ID NO: 107) e1e2e3Ce5e6e7De9Le11Ke13Ce15e16e17e18 (SEQ ID NO: 109) f1f2f3Kf5Df7Lf9f10Qf12f13f14 wherein the substituents are as defined in the specification. The invention further comprises compositions of matter of the formula (X1)a-V1-(X2)b wherein V1 is a vehicle that is covalently attached to one or more of the above TALL-1 modulating compositions of matter. The vehicle and the TALL-1 modulating composition of matter may be linked through the N- or C-terminus of the TALL-1 modulating portion. The preferred vehicle is an Fc domain, and the preferred Fc domain is an IgG Fc domain.
US08507423B2 Synthesis of biolubricant esters from unsaturated fatty acid derivatives
The present invention is generally directed to diester-based lubricant compositions comprising one or more isomeric mixtures of diester species wherein the kinematic viscosity of the composition at temperature of 100 C is at least 3 mm2/s The present invention is also directed to methods of making these and other similar lubricant compositions. In some embodiments, the methods for making such diester-based lubricants utilize a biomass precursor material from which mono-unsaturated free lipid species can be provided or otherwise generated, wherein such mono-unsaturated free lipid species are converted to isomeric diol species en route to the synthesis of diester species for use as/in the diester-based lubricant compositions.
US08507421B2 Lubricating greases and process for their production
A process includes adding an effective amount of a calcium lignin sulfonate to a thickened base grease to form a lubricating grease wherein the calcium lignin sulfonate has a molecular weight of at least 10,000 g/mol; the calcium lignin sulfonate has a water content of less than about 0.5 wt %; the effective amount is from about 1 wt % to about 20 wt % based upon the weight of the lubricating grease; the thickened base grease is obtained from a grease forming process or a lubricating paste; and the lubricating grease has a water solubility below about 3 wt %, as determined by a water wash out-test.
US08507418B2 Siloxane-based composition which is intended for tire molding/stripping
The invention relates to compositions in the form of silicone oil emulsions which are intended to be applied to curing bladders as a mold-release agent during tire production.
US08507417B2 Organomolybdenum-boron additives
Disclosed are sulfur and phosphorous free, borated organomolybdenum compositions containing borated alcohols. These compositions can be formulated with ashless antioxidants and low levels of phosphorous containing antiwear compounds to provide improved lubricating compositions.
US08507413B2 Methods using well drilling fluids having clay control properties
Clay is stabilized in methods for drilling of wells and other formation treatment for hydrocarbon production by the addition to the drilling or other fluid including a choline compound together with an formation control additive.
US08507410B2 Pyridazinone compound and use thereof
A pyridazinone compound represented by formula (I) wherein R1 represents a C1-6 alkyl group or a (C1-6 alkyloxy) C1-6 alkyl group, R2 and R3 represent hydrogen or a C1-6 alkyl group, W represents halogen, etc., Z1 represents a C1-6 alkyl group, Z2 represents a C1-6 alkyl group, a C3-8 cycloalkyl group, etc., and n represents 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4, has a weed-controlling effect and an arthropod-controlling effect.
US08507403B2 Process for producing exhaust treatment catalyst powders, and their use
A process is described for producing a powder batch comprises a plurality of particles, wherein the particles include (a) a first catalytically active component comprising at least one transition metal or a compound thereof; (b) a second component different from said first component and capable of removing oxygen from, or releasing oxygen to, an exhaust gas stream; and (c) a third component different from said first and second components and comprising a refractory support. The process comprises providing a precursor medium comprising a liquid vehicle and a precursor to al least one of said components (a) to (c) and heating droplets of said precursor medium carried in a gas stream to remove at least part of the liquid vehicle and chemically convert said precursor to said at least one component.
US08507401B1 Method and system for forming plug and play metal catalysts
A metal catalyst is formed by vaporizing a quantity of metal and a quantity of carrier forming a vapor cloud. The vapor cloud is quenched forming precipitate nanoparticles comprising a portion of metal and a portion of carrier. The nanoparticles are impregnated onto supports. The supports are able to be used in existing heterogeneous catalysis systems. A system for forming metal catalysts comprises means for vaporizing a quantity of metals and a quantity of carrier, quenching the resulting vapor cloud and forming precipitate nanoparticles comprising a portion of metals and a portion of carrier. The system further comprises means for impregnating supports with the nanoparticles.
US08507396B2 Regeneration of acidic catalysts
A process for regenerating a used acidic catalyst which has been deactivated by conjunct polymers by removing the conjunct polymers so as to increase the activity of the catalyst is disclosed. Methods for removing the conjunct polymers include addition of a basic reagent and alkylation. The methods are applicable to all acidic catalysts and are described with reference to certain ionic liquid catalysts.
US08507387B2 Methods of removing noble metal-containing nanoparticles
Some embodiments include methods of removing noble metal-containing particles from over a substrate. The substrate is exposed to a composition that reduces adhesion between the noble metal-containing particles and the substrate, and simultaneously the substrate is spun to sweep at least some of the noble metal-containing particles off from the substrate. Some embodiments include methods in which tunnel dielectric material is formed across a semiconductor wafer. Metallic nanoparticles are formed across the tunnel dielectric material. A stack of two or more different materials is formed over the metallic nanoparticles. A portion of the stack is covered with a protective mask while another portion of the stack is left unprotected. The unprotected portion of the stack is removed to expose some of the metallic nanoparticles. The semiconductor wafer to is subjected to etchant suitable to undercut at least some of the exposed metallic nanoparticles, and simultaneously the semiconductor wafer is spun.
US08507381B2 Method for fabricating silicon and/or germanium nanowires
The invention relates to a method for fabricating silicon and/or germanium nanowires on a substrate, comprising a step of bringing a precursor comprising silicon and/or a precursor comprising germanium into contact with a compound comprising copper oxide present on the said substrate, by means of which growth of nanowires takes place.
US08507378B2 Method and structure for self aligned contact for integrated circuits
A high voltage integrated circuit device includes a semiconductor substrate having a surface region with a contact region, which is coupled to a source/drain region. The device has a plasma enhanced oxide overlying the surface region, a stop layer overlying the plasma enhanced oxide, and a contact opening through a portion of the stop layer and through a portion of the plasma enhanced oxide layer. The contact opening exposes a portion of the contact region without damaging it. The device has a silicide layer overlying the contact region to form a silicided contact region and an interlayer dielectric overlying the silicided contact region to fill the contact opening and provide a thickness of material overlying the stop layer. An opening in the interlayer dielectric layer is formed through a portion of the thickness to expose a portion of the silicided contact region and expose a portion of the stop layer.
US08507369B2 Method for producing silicon nanowire devices
The invention provides a method for producing silicon nanowire devices, including the following steps: growing SiNW on a substrate; depositing an amorphous carbon layer and dielectric anti-reflectivity coating orderly; removing part of dielectric anti-reflectivity coating and amorphous carbon layer above the SiNW through dry etching to expose the SiNW device area; depositing an oxide film on the surface of the above structure; forming a metal pad connected with the SiNW in the SiNW device area; depositing a passivation layer on the surface of the above structure; applying photolithography and etching technology to form contact holes on the metal pad and to remove the passivation layer, the oxide film and the dielectric anti-reflectivity coating above the SiNW outside the device area, stopping on the amorphous carbon layer; removing the amorphous carbon layer above the SiNW outside the device area through ashing process to expose the SiNW.
US08507365B2 Growth of coincident site lattice matched semiconductor layers and devices on crystalline substrates
Methods of fabricating a semiconductor layer or device and said devices are disclosed. The methods include but are not limited to providing a substrate having a crystalline surface with a known lattice parameter (a). The method further includes growing a crystalline semiconductor layer on the crystalline substrate surface by coincident site lattice matched epitaxy, without any buffer layer between the crystalline semiconductor layer and the crystalline surface of the substrate. The crystalline semiconductor layer will be prepared to have a lattice parameter (a′) that is related to the substrate lattice parameter (a). The lattice parameter (a′) maybe related to the lattice parameter (a) by a scaling factor derived from a geometric relationship between the respective crystal lattices.
US08507363B2 Laser and plasma etch wafer dicing using water-soluble die attach film
Methods of dicing semiconductor wafers, each wafer having a plurality of integrated circuits, are described. A method includes forming a mask above the semiconductor wafer. The semiconductor wafer is disposed on a water-soluble die attach film. The mask covers and protects the integrated circuits. The mask is patterned with a laser scribing process to provide a patterned mask with gaps. The patterning exposes regions of the semiconductor wafer between the integrated circuits. The semiconductor wafer is then etched through the gaps in the patterned mask to form singulated integrated circuits. The water-soluble die attach film is then patterned with an aqueous solution.
US08507359B2 Semiconductor device, process for producing same, and display device
A wire (24) and a pixel electrode (25) are formed on a surface of a flat supporting substrate (21) which surface is opposite to a surface on which a TFT (16) is formed. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an active matrix substrate (2) which makes it possible to suppress a decline in yield.
US08507358B2 Composite wafer semiconductor
A composite wafer semiconductor device includes a first wafer and a second wafer. The first wafer has a first side and a second side, and the second side is substantially opposite the first side. The composite wafer semiconductor device also includes an isolation set is formed on the first side of the first wafer and a free space is etched in the isolation set. The second wafer is bonded to the isolation set. A floating structure, such as an inertia sensing device, is formed in the second wafer over the free space. In an embodiment, a surface mount pad is formed on the second side of the first wafer. Then, the floating structure is electrically coupled to the surface mount pad using a through silicon via (TSV) conductor.
US08507355B2 Manufacturing method of a high performance metal-oxide-metal
A method of manufacturing high performance metal-oxide-metal capacitor device that resolves problems with implementing high capacitance in the metal-oxide-metal region by filling with a low-k material both in the metal-oxide-metal region and the metal interconnection region, utilizing performing selective photolithography and etching of the first dielectric layer to define metal-oxide-metal (MOM for short) region, and filling the MOM region with high dielectric constant (high-k) material to realize a high performance MOM capacitor.
US08507353B2 Method of forming semiconductor device having self-aligned plug
A conductive pattern on a substrate is formed. An insulating layer having an opening exposing the conductive pattern is formed. A bottom electrode is formed on the conductive pattern and a first sidewall of the opening. A spacer is formed on the bottom electrode and a second sidewall of the opening. The spacer and the bottom electrode are formed to be lower than a top surface of the insulating layer. A data storage plug is formed on the bottom electrode and the spacer. The data storage plug has a first sidewall aligned with a sidewall of the bottom electrode and a second sidewall aligned with a sidewall of the spacer. A bit line is formed on the data storage plug.
US08507351B2 Dopant profile tuning for MOS devices by adapting a spacer width prior to implantation
By selectively modifying the spacer width, for instance, by reducing the spacer width on the basis of implantation masks, an individual adaptation of dopant profiles may be achieved without unduly contributing to the overall process complexity. For example, in sophisticated integrated circuits, the performance of transistors of the same or different conductivity type may be individually adjusted by providing different sidewall spacer widths on the basis of an appropriate masking regime.
US08507348B2 Field effect transistors for a flash memory comprising a self-aligned charge storage region
Storage transistors for flash memory areas in semiconductor devices may be provided on the basis of a self-aligned charge storage region. To this end, a floating spacer element may be provided in some illustrative embodiments, while, in other cases, the charge storage region may be efficiently embedded in the electrode material in a self-aligned manner during a replacement gate approach. Consequently, enhanced bit density may be achieved, since additional sophisticated lithography processes for patterning the charge storage region may no longer be required.
US08507347B2 Semiconductor devices and methods of manufacture thereof
Semiconductor devices and methods of manufacture thereof are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a transistor, the transistor including a fin having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The transistor includes a first gate electrode disposed on the first side of the fin and a second gate electrode disposed on the second side of the fin. The method includes forming a silicide or germanide of a metal on the first gate electrode and the second gate electrode of the transistor. The amount of the metal of the silicide or germanide is substantially homogeneous over the first gate electrode and the second gate electrode proximate the fin.
US08507343B2 Variable resistance memory device and method of manufacturing the same
In a variable resistance memory device and a method of manufacturing the variable resistance memory device, the generation of a seam, or void, is avoided in the device that, if present, may otherwise reduce the reliability of the resulting device.
US08507342B2 Semiconductor device with buried bit lines and method for fabricating the same
A semiconductor device includes active regions separated by a trench, a separation layer dividing the trench, and buried bit lines buried in the trench with the separation layer interposed between the buried bit lines.
US08507340B2 Method of fabricating a nonvolatile memory
A lamination pattern having a control gate electrode, a first insulation film thereover, and a second insulation film thereover is formed over a semiconductor substrate. A memory gate electrode is formed adjacent to the lamination pattern. A gate insulation film is formed between the control gate and the semiconductor substrate. A fourth insulation film, including a lamination film of a silicon oxide film, a silicon nitride film, and another silicon oxide film, is formed between the memory gate electrode and the semiconductor substrate and between the lamination pattern and the memory gate electrode. At the sidewall on the side of the lamination pattern adjacent to the memory gate electrode, the first insulation film is retreated from the control gate electrode and the second insulation film, and the upper end corner portion of the control gate electrode is rounded.
US08507334B2 Method of laser irradiation, laser irradiation apparatus, and method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
If an optical path length of an optical system is reduced and a length of a laser light on an irradiation surface is increased, there occurs curvature of field which is a phenomenon that a convergent position deviates depending on an incident angle or incident position of a laser light with respect to a lens. To avoid this phenomenon, an optical element having a negative power such as a concave lens or a concave cylindrical lens is inserted to regulate the optical path length of the laser light and a convergent position is made coincident with a irradiation surface to form an image on the irradiation surface.
US08507328B2 Systems and methods providing semiconductor light emitters
A semiconductor structure includes a module with a plurality of die regions, a plurality of light-emitting devices disposed upon the substrate so that each of the die regions includes one of the light-emitting devices, and a lens board over the module and adhered to the substrate with glue. The lens board includes a plurality of microlenses each corresponding to one of the die regions, and at each one of the die regions the glue provides an air-tight encapsulation of one of the light-emitting devices by a respective one of the microlenses. Further, phosphor is included as a part of the lens board.
US08507327B2 Semiconductor device manufacturing method thereof
Cutting work is performed on an n-semiconductor substrate (1) with an inverted trapezoid-shaped dicing blade to form grooves to be a second side walls (7). Bottom portions of the grooves are contacted with a p-diffusion layer (4) which is formed on a first principal plane (2) (front face) of the n-semiconductor substrate (1), so that the p-diffusion layer (4) is not cut. Then in the second side walls (7), a p-isolation layer (9) connected to a p-collector layer (8) and the p-diffusion layer (4) is formed. Since the p-diffusion layer (4) is not cut, a glass support substrate for supporting a wafer, and expensive adhesive, are not required, and therefore the p-isolation layer (4) can be formed at low cost.
US08507326B2 BEOL anti-fuse structures for gate last semiconductor devices
An approach is provided for semiconductor devices including an anti-fuse structure. The semiconductor device includes a first metallization layer including a first portion of a first electrode and a second electrode, the second electrode being formed in a substantially axial plane surrounding the first portion of the first electrode, with a dielectric material in between the two electrodes. An ILD is formed over the first metallization layer, a second metallization layer including a second portion of the first electrode is formed over the ILD, and at least one via is formed through the ILD, electrically connecting the first and second portions of the first electrode. Breakdown of the dielectric material is configured to enable an operating current to flow between the second electrode and the first electrode in a programmed state of the anti-fuse structure.
US08507322B2 Semiconductor substrate and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
Provided is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, which prevents waste generation from being caused peeling of films and prevents failure of peeling from being caused by waste due to peeling of films. A first semiconductor substrate is used which has a structure in which a peeling layer is not formed in a section subjected to a first dividing treatment, so that the peeling layer is not exposed at the end surface of a second semiconductor substrate when the second semiconductor substrate is cut out of the first semiconductor substrate. In addition, a supporting material is provided on a layer to be peeled of the second semiconductor substrate before the second semiconductor substrate is subjected to a second dividing treatment.
US08507321B2 Chip package and method for forming the same
An embodiment of the invention provides a chip package which includes: a carrier substrate; a semiconductor substrate having an upper surface and a lower surface, disposed overlying the carrier substrate; a device region or sensing region located on the upper surface of the semiconductor substrate; a conducting pad located on the upper surface of the semiconductor substrate; a conducting layer electrically connected to the conducting pad and extending from the upper surface of the semiconductor substrate to a sidewall of the semiconductor substrate; and an insulating layer located between the conducting layer and the semiconductor substrate.
US08507317B2 Solder bump structure for flip chip semiconductor devices and method of manufacturing therefore
The invention provides, in one aspect, a semiconductor device that comprises an interconnect layer located over a semiconductor substrate. A passivation layer is located over the interconnect layer and having a solder bump support opening formed therein. Support pillars that comprise a conductive material are located within the solder bump support opening.
US08507316B2 Protecting T-contacts of chip scale packages from moisture
A method includes performing a first die-saw on a package structure includes forming a first and a second metal lead extending into a trench of a package structure, wherein the first and the second metal leads contact the side edges of contact pads that are in devices in the package structure. The first and the second metal leads are interconnected through a connecting metal portion. A pre-cut is performed to cut the connecting metal portion to separate the first and the second metal leads, wherein remaining portions of the connecting metal portion have edges after the pre-cut. A dielectric coating is formed over the first and the second metal leads. A die-saw is performed to saw apart the package structure, so that the first and the second dies are separated into separate piece. In each of the resulting pieces, the edges of the remaining portions of the connecting metal portion are covered by remaining portions of the first dielectric coating.
US08507314B2 Organic light emitting device and manufacturing method thereof
An organic light emitting device comprises a first substrate, a first electrode formed on the first substrate, a hole transporting layer formed on the first electrode, a light emitting layer formed on the hole transporting layer, a second electrode formed on the light emitting layer; and a mixture layer formed between the hole transporting layer and the light emitting layer, where the mixture layer including a hole transporting functioning material, wherein the hole transporting functioning material and the light emitting functioning material have concentration gradient respectively.
US08507309B2 Imaging apparatus having a photosensor provided on a lower surface of a semiconductor substrate and a lens unit provided on an upper surface of the semiconductor substrate, and manufacturing method of the same
A photosensor comprises a photoelectric conversion device region and a connection pad on the lower surface of a semiconductor substrate, and also comprises a wiring line connected to the connection pad via insulating film under the semiconductor substrate, and a columnar electrode as an external connection electrode connected to the wiring line. As a result, as compared with the case where the photoelectric conversion device region and the connection pad connected to the photoelectric conversion device region are formed on the upper surface of the semiconductor substrate, a piercing electrode for connecting the connection pad and the wiring line does not have to be formed in the semiconductor substrate. Thus, the number of steps can be smaller, and a fabrication process can be less restricted.
US08507308B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of semiconductor integrated circuits bonded to a structure body in which a fibrous body is impregnated with an organic resin. The plurality of semiconductor integrated circuits are provided at openings formed in the structure body and each include a photoelectric conversion element, a light-transmitting substrate which has stepped sides and in which the width of the projected section on a first surface side is smaller than that of a second surface, a semiconductor integrated circuit portion provided on the second surface of the light-transmitting substrate, and a chromatic color light-transmitting resin layer which covers the first surface and part of side surfaces of the light-transmitting substrate. The plurality of semiconductor integrated circuits include the chromatic color light-transmitting resin layers of different colors.
US08507306B2 Reduced stiction MEMS device with exposed silicon carbide
A MEMS device has a first member that is movable relative to a second member. At least one of the first member and the second member has exposed silicon carbide with a water contact angle of greater than about 70 degrees.
US08507302B1 Wall structures for a semiconductor wafer
Techniques for fabricating metal devices, such as vertical light-emitting diode (VLED) devices, power devices, laser diodes, and vertical cavity surface emitting laser devices, are provided. Devices produced accordingly may benefit from greater yields and enhanced performance over conventional metal devices, such as higher brightness of the light-emitting diode and increased thermal conductivity. Moreover, the invention discloses techniques in the fabrication arts that are applicable to GaN-based electronic devices in cases where there is a high heat dissipation rate of the metal devices that have an original non- (or low) thermally conductive and/or non- (or low) electrically conductive carrier substrate that has been removed.
US08507301B2 TFT array substrate and the fabrication method thereof
A TFT array substrate includes: a gate electrode connected to a gate line; a source electrode connected to a data line crossing the gate line to define a pixel region; a drain electrode which is opposite to the source electrode with a channel in between; a semiconductor layer defining the channel between the source electrode and the drain electrode; a pixel electrode in the pixel region and connected to the drain electrode; a channel passivation layer on the channel of the semiconductor layer; a gate pad extending from the gate line, where a semiconductor pattern and a transparent conductive pattern are formed; a data pad connected to the data line, where the transparent conductive pattern is formed; and a gate insulating layer formed under the semiconductor layer, the gate line and the gate pad, and the data line and the data pad.
US08507297B2 Packaging and testing of multiple MEMS devices on a wafer
A wafer containing a plurality of electro-optical devices, each device being enclosed in chamber that has a translucent cover. An X-Y matrix of pairs of interconnections on the wafer are connected to the circuitry of the electro-optical devices for addressing the electro-optical devices. The pairs of interconnections extend outside of the chambers enclosing the devices to testing areas on the periphery of the wafer. Testing is done by signals applied through the interconnections while simultaneously exposing the devices to light through the translucent covers.
US08507294B2 Method and system for analyte monitoring using surface plasmons with a refreshable surface
The present technology provides an illustrative method for analyte monitoring using surface plasmons with a refreshable surface. The method includes placing a solution to be monitored in contact with a working surface of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) generation system. The working surface includes a metal surface disposed on a glass surface, and the metal surface includes a first binding substance that provides binding sites for an analyte. The method further includes applying light to the metal surface at a plurality of angles over a period of time, measuring a reflectance of the light at each of the plurality of angles to determine an SPR angle, and monitoring changes to the SPR angle over the period of time. The working surface of the SPR generation system is refreshed by depositing a new layer of the first binding substance on the working surface of the SPR generation system.
US08507292B2 Sample pretreatment and extraction
A method for pretreating and extracting a liquid sample by sorbing an aqueous liquid sample, including an organic analyte and an acid or a base, in a solid sorbent material, and at least partially neutralizing the acid or base by reaction with neutralizing ions retained on a support surface, and contacting the liquid sample-sorbed sorbent material at elevated temperature and pressure with an organic solvent to extract the analyte into said solvent, preferably in a vessel having an extraction chamber with a zirconium metal interior surface.
US08507290B2 Water-soluble silsesquioxanes as organic quantum dots for sensing and imaging
The present invention generally relates to water-soluble, highly fluorescent polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) compounds useful for sensing and bioimaging applications.
US08507289B1 System and method for coding information on a biosensor test strip
The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.
US08507287B2 Mesoporous metal oxide materials for phosphoproteomics
The present invention provides methods and materials for isolating, purifying, and/or enriching the concentration of compounds having one or more phosphate groups and/or derivatives thereof, including but not limited to phosphorylated peptides and/or phosphorylated proteins. In some aspects, the present invention provides nanostructured enrichment materials, such as metal oxide mesoporous materials, that selectively and reversibly bind with phosphorylated compounds with high specificity and are capable of controlled release of phosphorylated compounds bound to their active surfaces. Mesoporous materials of the present invention also provide enrichment materials having large active surface areas that provide for higher loading capacities for phosphorylated peptides and proteins relative to conventional affinity based methods. Nanostructured metal oxide mesoporous enrichment materials of the present invention are also compatible with implementation via a variety of separation platforms including flow through separation systems, elution based separation systems, column chromatography and affinity chromatography.
US08507284B2 Method and apparatus for extraction of strontium from urine
The present invention provides an apparatus and rapid methods for extracting strontium ions from urine to provide a concentrated and purified strontium-90 extract suitable for scintillation measurements. The methods remove organic compounds, pigments, and alkali metal ions that can interfere with quantitative determination of strontium-90 in urine. A method of the invention comprises acidifying urine and removing organic pigments therefrom, loading a known quantity of so-treated urine onto a diphosphonic acid-based ion-exchange resin; flowing aqueous methanesulfonic acid through the diphosphonic acid-based ion-exchange resin to elute alkali metal ions therefrom; eluting strontium ions off of the diphosphonic acid-based resin and on to a strontium extraction chromatographic resin with a concentrated aqueous nitric acid solution; subsequently flowing water or a dilute acid stripping solution through the strontium extraction resin to strip the strontium from the strontium extraction resin; and collecting the strontium-containing stripping solution eluting from the strontium extraction resin.
US08507274B2 Compositions and methods for promoting the generation of definitive endoderm
Certain embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a method of producing endoderm cells, such as definitive endoderm cells by exposing stem cells such as embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to an effective amount of at least one compound described herein to differentiate the stem cells into the endoderm cells such as definitive endoderm cells. Differentated endoderm cells produced by the methods disclosed herein can be differentiated into pancreatic epithelium, and other endoderm derivatives such as thymus, liver, stomach, intestine and lung. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of producing pancreatic progenitor cells, such as Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor cells by exposing endoderm cells, such as definitive endoderm cells to an effective amount of at least one compound described herein to differentiate the definitive endoderm cells into Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor cells. Kits and compositions comprising Pdx1-positive pancreatic progenitor produced using the methods are also described.
US08507272B2 Nucleotide-specific recognition sequences for designer TAL effectors
The invention relates to methods of altering expression of a genomic locus of interest or specifically targeting a genomic locus of interest in an animal cell, which may involve contacting the genomic locus with a non-naturally occurring or engineered composition that includes a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding polypeptide having a N-terminal capping region, a DNA binding domain comprising at least five or more Transcription activator-like effector (TALE) monomers and at least one or more half-monomers specifically ordered to target the genomic locus of interest, and a C-terminal capping region, wherein the polypeptide includes at least one or more effector domains, and wherein the polypeptide is encoded by and translated from a codon optimized nucleic acid molecule so that the polypeptide preferentially binds to the DNA of the genomic locus.
US08507269B2 Calcium channel proteins and uses thereof
Described herein are compositions and uses thereof related to Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel activity. Also described herein CRAC channel modulators for treating diseases or conditions that would benefit from inhibition of SOC channel activity.
US08507261B2 Incubation container
A laboratory dish comprises an incubation container, containing cultured cells, for observation through a microscope, in which a partitioning member partitions an interior of the incubation container into a plurality of incubation chambers by substantially perpendicular walls. The partitioning member tightly fits to a bottom portion of the incubation container, thereby capable of retaining in separation a liquid inputted in each of the incubation chambers from liquids in the other incubation chambers. A cover member covers an upper portion of each of the incubation chambers partitioned by the partitioning member and tightly fitted to the partitioning member. A whole or part of the cover member is formed of a transparent member, and the upper portion of each incubation chamber is formed with an opening via which to input the liquid.
US08507259B2 Dual path immunoassay device
The systems of the invention include test cells with a first sorbent material defining a first flow path for a solution, a second sorbent material defining a second flow path distinct from the first flow path for a sample, and a test line or test site with immobilized antigens or antibodies or other ligand binding molecules such as aptamers, nucleic acids, etc. located at the junction of the first and second sorbent materials. The first and second sorbent strips touch each other at the test site location.
US08507257B2 Combined thermal devices for thermal cycling
The invention relates to systems and methods including a combination of thermal generating device technologies to achieve more efficiency and accuracy in PCR temperature cycling of nucleic samples undergoing amplification.
US08507254B1 Process of growing and harvesting algae in seawater with feather additive
A process for mixing seawater, feather additive, and one or more algae to prepare a nutrient-rich feedstock for cultivating, growing, and harvesting algae. The harvested algae are processed to produce biofuel, oil, nutrient supplements, and polymers used for cosmetics.
US08507247B2 Influenza A virus with attenuating mutations in NS2 protein
The invention provides an isolated attenuated recombinant influenza virus comprising a gene segment comprising a mutant NS2 protein gene, wherein the NS2 protein has at least two substitutions that do not substantially alter the in vitro replication of the virus but are associated with attenuation of the virus in vivo, wherein at least one of the substitutions is a substitution for glutamate.
US08507244B2 Variants of bacillus sp. TS-23 alpha-amylase with altered properties
Variants of Bacillus sp. TS-23 strain alpha-amylases exhibit improved enzymatic performance, including increased thermostability, reduced calcium dependence, increased washing/cleaning performance, and baking ability. Compositions comprising these variants are useful in methods of starch processing, starch liquefaction, fermatation, starch saccharification, cleaning, laundrying, textile desizing, baking, and biofilm removal.
US08507243B2 Alpha-amylase blends and methods for using said blends
The present invention relates to an alpha-amylase blend, including a B. stearothermophilus alpha-amylase (AmyS) wherein the amino acid at position S242 is substituted and a B. licheniformis alpha-amylase The invention also relates to processes using the alpha-amylase blends for starch liquefaction and saccharification, ethanol production, and a sweetener production.
US08507235B2 Isoprene production using the DXP and MVA pathway
The invention provides for methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells using various components of the DXP pathway and MVA pathway, or components associated with the DXP pathway and MVA pathway, iron-sulfur cluster-interacting redox polypeptides, and isoprene synthase. The invention also provides compositions that include these cultured cells.
US08507234B2 Composition and methods for improving the production of fermentation operations
Methods and compositions for improving the production of ethanol by a microorganism in a fermentation medium are provided, where the method comprises adding to the fermentation medium an emulsion comprising a monoterpene and a surfactant in an amount sufficient to improve the production of ethanol.
US08507230B2 Method for producing polyhydroxyalkanoate
A method for producing polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), comprising (i) culturing in a culture medium comprising terephthalic acid and/or a salt thereof and/or an ester thereof one or more bacterial strains which are capable of accumulating PHA from terephthalic acid or a salt or ester thereof and which are selected from Pseudomonas putida strain GO16 having the accession number NCIMB 41538, Pseudomonas putida strain GO19 having the accession number NCIMB 41537, and Pseudomonas frederiksbergensis strain GO23 having the accession number NCIMB 41539; and (ii) recovering the PHA produced from the culture medium. The invention also provides Pseudomonas putida strain GO16 having the accession number NCIMB 41538; Pseudomonas putida strain GO19 having the accession number NCIMB 41537; and Pseudomonas frederiksbergensis strain GO23 having the accession number NCIMB 41539.
US08507228B2 Carbon capture in fermentation
The invention relates to methods of capturing carbon by microbial fermentation of a gaseous substrate comprising CO. The methods of the invention include converting CO to one or more products including alcohols and/or acids and optionally capturing CO2 to improve overall carbon capture. In certain aspects, the invention relates to processes for producing alcohols, particularly ethanol, from industrial waste streams, particularly steel mill off-gas.
US08507226B2 Methods for high fidelity production of long nucleic acid molecules
In a method for synthesizing a pool of nucleic acid molecules, a first nucleic acid has a first 5′ region and a first 3′ region and a second nucleic acid has a second 5′ region and a second 3′ region. The second 3′ region and the first 5′ region have identical nucleic acid sequences. The first 3′ region is hybridized with an oligonucleotide, extending the hybridized oligonucleotide and producing a first extension product having a 3′ region complementary to the first 5′ region. The second nucleic acid is hybridized with the first extension product to hybridize the 3′ region of the first extension product to the second 3′ region, extending the 3′ region of the first extension product and producing a second extension product having a 3′ region complementary to the second 5′ region. Error-containing molecules are separated from error-free molecules by a component that selects for a sequence error.
US08507219B2 Method of treating inflammation with statins
The current invention discloses novel methods for the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthesis (iNOS) and the production of NO. Methods of inhibiting the induction of proinflammatory cytokines are also described. Methods of treating various disease states, such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's and septic shock using inhibitors of iNOS and cytokine induction are disclosed. The inhibitors include the exemplary compounds lovastatin, a sodium salt of phenylacetic acid (NaPA), FPT inhibitor II, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), and cAMP.
US08507216B2 Kit for measurement of endotoxin level by bioluminescent assay
The present invention provides a method comprising allowing a reaction of a sample, a reagent containing Factor C, which can be activated by binding with endotoxin, and a synthetic luminescent substrate comprising a luminescent substrate bound to a peptide, for release of the luminescent substrate from the synthetic luminescent substrate, allowing a luminescent enzyme to act on the luminescent substrate released in the luminescent substrate release step, for measurement of the luminescence intensity, and quantifying the level of endotoxin in the sample based on a measured value obtained in the luminescence measuring step, the method enabling endotoxin to be simply and quickly measured at a level that cannot be detected in conventional methods for endotoxin measurement, without use of any dedicated measuring device.
US08507210B2 Detection of bacterial infections in subjects suffering from dyspnea
The field of the present invention is the diagnosis and/or prediction and/or therapy follow-up of bacterial infections in subjects suffering from dyspnea. It is a subject of the present invention to provide a method for the diagnosis and/or prediction and/or therapy follow-up of bacterial infections in subjects suffering from dyspnea.
US08507208B2 Methods and compositions for detection of biological materials using microfluidic devices
Provided herein are microfluidic devices and methods useful for sensitive detection of analytes. The methods and devices described herein are also useful for detecting direct or indirect binding of enzymes or catalysts to a surface, for example a surface having analytes bound thereon. Methods disclosed herein include embodiments utilizing a pre-concentration scheme to improve signal levels of corresponding reporter moieties.
US08507206B2 Monoclonal antibodies that target pathological assemblies of amyloid β (Abeta)
Disclosed herein are antibodies that bind with high specificity to soluble oligomers of amyloid β (Abeta) and methods of employing those antibodies. The antibodies are able to distinguish between Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and control human brain extracts. The antibodies identify endogenous Abeta oligomers in AD brain slices and also bind to Abeta oligomers on cultured hippocampal cells. The antibodies neutralize endogenous Abeta oligomers and Abeta oligomers produced in solution.
US08507205B2 Single cell analysis by polymerase cycling assembly
The invention provides a method of making measurements on individual cells of a population, particularly cells that have identifying nucleic acid sequences, such as lymphoid cells. In one aspect, the invention provides a method of making multiparameter measurements on individual cells of such a population by carrying out a polymerase cycling assembly (PCA) reaction to link their identifying nucleic acid sequences to other cellular nucleic acids of interest. The fusion products of such PCA reaction are then sequenced and tabulated to generate multiparameter data for cells of the population.
US08507204B2 Hybridization chain reaction amplification for in situ imaging
The present invention relates to the use of fluorescently labeled nucleic acid probes to identify and image analytes in a biological sample. In the preferred embodiments, a probe is provided that comprises a target region able to specifically bind an analyte of interest and an initiator region that is able to initiate polymerization of nucleic acid monomers. After contacting a sample with the probe, labeled monomers are provided that form a tethered polymer. Triggered probes and self-quenching monomers can be used to provide active background suppression.
US08507203B2 Aptamers selected against live S. pyogenes cells
The invention is directed to aptamers, methods and kits comprising same for detecting Streptococcus pyogenes. The method of screening a subject for Streptococcus pyogenes involves obtaining a body sample from the subject; contacting the sample or a bacterial culture of the sample with an aptamer or a panel of aptamers specific to S. pyogenes; and detecting the presence or absence of S. pyogenes in the sample or the bacterial culture, wherein binding of the aptamer is indicative of the presence of S. pyogenes.
US08507197B2 Quality control methods for arrayed oligonucleotides
We disclose quality controls methods that allow quick and accurate verification of a test oligonucleotide deposited on a solid support. It is especially useful for the verification of oligonucleotides representing alleles of a multi-allelic locus. It employs single base extension, with labeled dideoxynucleotides, to locate and verify the identity of test oligonucleotides. This approach involves synthesizing a complement probe oligonucleotide for each oligonucleotide being tested. Probe oligonucleotides are optionally grouped. They are then hybridized to test oligonucleotides, and the hybridized pair is subject to single base extension and detection. It requires the presence of one unique base, either in the last two bases at the free hanging end of the test oligonucleotide—as opposed to the end anchored to the solid support surface, or in the last two bases at one end of the probe oligonucleotide.
US08507195B2 MiRNAs dysregulated in triple-negative breast cancer
The invention provides methods of diagnosing and treating cancer in a subject. The inventors have identified a series of dysregulated miRNAs that are indicative of triple-negative breast cancer. In some embodiments, the invention further provides for the administration of a cancer therapy to the subject.
US08507193B2 Pattern forming method, resist composition for multiple development used in the pattern forming method, developer for negative development used in the pattern forming method, and rinsing solution for negative development used in the pattern forming method
A pattern forming method, including: (A) coating a substrate with a positive resist composition of which solubility in a positive developer increases and solubility in a negative developer decreases upon irradiation with actinic rays or radiation, so as to form a resist film; (B) exposing the resist film; and (D) developing the resist film with a negative developer; a positive resist composition for multiple development used in the method; a developer for use in the method; and a rinsing solution for negative development used in the method.
US08507190B2 Method for preparing alignment mark for multiple patterning
A method for image pattern recognition in a multi-image patterning scheme is described. The method includes forming a first feature pattern on a substrate using a lithographic process, and forming a second feature pattern on the substrate using the lithographic process. The method further includes forming an inspection alignment mark on the substrate to distinguish the first feature pattern from the second feature pattern. The inspection alignment mark comprises a negative tone pattern having a first alignment structure aligned with at least a portion of the first feature pattern and a second alignment structure aligned with at least a portion of the second feature pattern, wherein the first alignment structure is independent from the second alignment structure.
US08507189B2 Upper layer film forming composition and method of forming photoresist pattern
An upper layer film forming composition for forming an upper layer film on the surface of a photoresist film includes (A) a resin dissolvable in a developer for the photoresist film and (B) a compound having a sulfonic acid residue group, the composition forming an upper layer film with a receding contact angle to water of 70° or more. The upper layer film forming composition of the present invention can form an upper layer film which has a sufficient transparency and is stably maintained without eluting the components into a medium without being intermixed with a photoresist film, can form a resist pattern with high resolution while effectively suppressing a defect, and can suppress a blob defect.
US08507185B2 Methods of forming electronic devices
Methods of forming electronic devices are provided. The methods involve alkaline treatment of photoresist patterns and allow for the formation of high density resist patterns. The methods find particular applicability in semiconductor device manufacture.
US08507183B2 Method of manufacturing a coordinate detector
A method of manufacturing a coordinate detector having a resistive film and a common electrode for applying a voltage to the resistive film is disclosed that includes the steps of (a) applying a photoresist onto the resistive film formed on a substrate formed of an insulator; (b) forming a resist pattern on the resistive film by exposing the applied photoresist to light through a predetermined mask and subsequently developing the applied photoresist; (c) forming a resistive film removal region by removing a portion of the resistive film without the resist pattern; (d) removing the resist pattern after step (c); and (e) forming the common electrode over the resistive film removal region after step (d).
US08507182B2 Method of providing lithographic printing plates
Lithographic printing plates can be obtained by contacting infrared radiation-imaged negative-working lithographic printing plate precursors with a processing solution having a pH less than 9 and comprising a UV photoinitiator. After this processing, the lithographic printing plate is floodwise exposed with UV radiation. Providing a UV-photoinitiator in the processing solution followed by UV exposure can increase imaging sensitivity and printing plate run-length, and reduce print background.
US08507181B2 Method for developing and sealing of lithographic printing plates
A method is described for producing an imaged lithographic printing plate, wherein the developer comprises a hydrophilic polymer comprising (m1) structural units derived from at least one compound comprising both a polyalkylene oxide chain and a free radical polymerizable group, and (m2) structural units derived from at least one compound copolymerizable with the free radical polymerizable group of (i) and comprising at least one functional group with pKs<5.
US08507177B2 Photoresist materials and photolithography processes
A material for use in lithography processing includes a polymer that turns soluble to a base solution in response to reaction with acid and a plurality of magnetically amplified generators (MAGs) each having a magnetic element and each decomposing to form acid bonded with the magnetic element in response to radiation energy.
US08507173B2 Patterning process
A pattern is formed by applying a first positive resist composition onto a substrate, heat treatment, exposure, heat treatment and development to form a first resist pattern; causing the first resist pattern to crosslink and cure by irradiation of high-energy radiation of 200-320 nm wavelength; further applying a second positive resist composition onto the substrate, heat treatment, exposure, heat treatment and development to form a second resist pattern. The double patterning process reduces the pitch between patterns to one half.
US08507163B2 Method of manufacturing image bearing member, image bearing member, and image forming apparatus
A method of manufacturing an image bearing member including forming a charge generation layer overlying an electroconductive substrate, forming a charge transport layer overlying the charge generation layer, the charge transport layer including a charge transport material having a molecular weight of from 600 to 900 and a binder resin, and forming a protection layer overlying the charge transport layer by applying a liquid application containing a polymerizable compound having a charge transport structure, a polymerizable compound having no charge transport structure, a filler, a polycarboxylic acid compound, and cyclopentanone and curing the polymerizable compound having a charge transport structure, and the polymerizable compound having no charge transport structure.
US08507156B2 Laser mask and sequential lateral solidification crystallization method using the same
A laser mask is disclosed. In one embodiment, the laser mask includes: a mask substrate including i) at least one light transmission portion configured to transmit light therethrough and ii) a plurality of light interruption portions separated by the light transmission portion interposed therebetween. The light interruption portions are configured to block light; and a plurality of protrusion and depression regions positioned on the light interruption portions of the mask substrate. The protrusion and depression regions comprise a plurality of concave portions and a plurality of convex portions which are alternately formed.
US08507155B2 Photomask blank, photomask, and method for manufacturing photomask blank
A photomask blank for a photomask used with an ArF excimer laser. The photo mask has a light transmissive substrate with a surface on which a light-shielding film is formed. The light-shielding film has a laminated structure comprising a back-surface antireflection layer, a light-shielding layer and a front-surface antireflection layer. The thickness of the entire light-shielding film is 70 nm or less. The back-surface antireflection layer comprises a film containing a metal and having first etching rate. The front-surface antireflection layer comprises a film containing a metal and having a third etching rate. The light-shielding layer comprises a film containing the same metal as that contained in the back-surface antireflection layer or the front-surface antireflection layer, with a second etching rate that is lower than the first and third etching rates. The thickness of the light-shielding layer is 45% or less of the thickness of the entire light-shielding film.
US08507154B2 Volume hologram comprising expansion agent layer or contraction agent layer for creating color patterns
The invention concerns a security element in the form of a multi-layer film body having a volume hologram layer with two different items of optical information and a process for the production of such a security element.
US08507151B2 Membrane electrode assembly having low surface ionomer concentration
A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) comprises a polymer electrolyte membrane having at least one electrode layer on each of the opposing sides of the membrane. The electrode layer comprises a catalyst, an electrically conductive particulate material and an ionomer binder. The ionomer binder concentration on the exterior surface of the MEA is lower than the ionomer binder concentration near the electrode membrane interface. The electrode layer is formed by casting and drying a solvent ink layer between a nonporous release surface and a porous releasable decal.
US08507150B2 Fuel cell module
Disclosed is a fuel cell module provided with a fuel cell stack and a load-applying mechanism. The load-applying mechanism is provided with: a first clamping part that applies a first camping load, in the direction of stacking, to the gas seal part of the fuel cell stack; a second clamping part that applies to an electrolyte/electrode unit, in the aforementioned direction of stacking, a second clamping load that is lighter than the first clamping load; and a third clamping part that is provided on the first clamping part and, separately from the first clamping part, applies a third clamping load to the gas seal part in the aforementioned direction of stacking.
US08507146B2 Diaphragm for solid polymer fuel cell and membrane-electrode assembly
The present invention discloses a membrane for polymer electrolyte fuel cell, which comprises a hydrocarbon cation exchange resin membrane wherein a cation exchange group is covalently bonded to a hydrocarbon resin, and an adhesive layer formed on at least one side of the hydrocarbon cation exchange resin membrane, wherein the adhesive layer is made of a hydrocarbon cation exchange resin having a Young's modulus of 1 to 300 MPa and a solubility of less than 1% by mass in water of 20° C.; and a membrane-electrode assembly which is obtained by forming a catalyst electrode layer on at least one side of the above-mentioned membrane for polymer electrolyte fuel cell.
US08507139B2 Fuel cell module
A fuel cell module includes in a casing: a fuel cell stack that is formed by stacking a plurality of unit cell; an oxidant gas distributing member that is disposed at a side surface, that extends in a stack direction of the unit cells, of the fuel cell stack that extends in a direction from one end to another end of each of the unit cells, and that supplies the oxidant gas to the another end of each unit cell after supplying the oxidant gas through the oxidant gas distributing member from the one end to the another end; a reformer disposed at the one end; and a combustion portion that is disposed between the one end and the reformer. The oxidant gas distributing member has a higher thermal conductivity at the one end side of the unit cells than at the another end side of the unit cells.
US08507138B2 Ejector for fuel cell system
An ejector for a fuel cell system of the present invention includes a nozzle having a nozzle hole for discharging hydrogen supplied via an inlet port of an ejector body, a diffuser for mixing hydrogen discharged from the nozzle hole and hydrogen off-gas discharged and returned via a circulation passage from a fuel cell, a needle displacing in the axial direction by a driving force of a solenoid, and a bearing member held in a hollow portion of the nozzle, and having a through hole that movably supports the needle in the axial direction.
US08507135B2 Electrically conductive nanocomposite material comprising sacrificial nanoparticles and open porous nanocomposites produced thereof
Nanocomposites of conductive, nanoparticulate polymer and electronically active material, in particular PEDOT and LiFePO4, were found to be significantly better compared to bare and carbon coated LiFePO4 in carbon black and graphite filled non conducting binder. The conductive polymer containing composite outperformed the other two samples. The performance of PEDOT composite was especially better in the high current regime with capacity retention of 82% after 200 cycles. Further improvement can be obtained if the porosity of the nanocomposites is enhanced. Hence an electrode produced from a composite made of conductive, nanoparticulate polymer, electronically active material, and sacrificial polymer, wherein the sacrificial polymer has been removed leaving pores has improved electrolyte and ion diffusion properties allowing the production of thicker electrodes.
US08507130B2 Water based lithium secondary battery
The present invention provides a water based lithium secondary battery that can inhibit deteriorations in capacity owing to charge-and-discharge operations and maintain a high capacity even after it is charged and discharged repeatedly. The water based lithium secondary battery includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator 4 sandwiched between these, and an aqueous electrolyte solution obtained by dissolving an electrolyte made of a lithium salt in a water based solvent. As the water based solvent, a pH buffer solution is employed. The buffer solution is obtained by dissolving an acid and its conjugate base's salt, a base and its conjugate acid's salt, a salt made from a weak acid and a strong base, a salt made from a weak base and a strong acid, or a salt made from a weak acid and a weak base in water.
US08507128B2 Method for dismantling device comprising at least one article embedded at least partially in resin
A method for dismantling a device including at least one article at least partially embedded in a resin, the article including a body and a housing at least partially surrounding the body, the housing being at least partially in contact with the resin, wherein the method includes extracting the body from the housing, the housing remaining attached to the resin upon the extraction of the body.
US08507125B2 Monoblock lithium ion battery
The present invention describes a monoblock for a plurality of lithium ion cells. The monoblock includes a case having a base and a cover dimensioned and configured to the base. The case includes a chamber that includes cell compartments for lithium cells. Each lithium cell is disposed in a leaf spring that applies compression pressure on the cell. The structural integrity of the battery and cells is maintained using internal and external anti-swelling features including a waffle pattern, backing plates, etc. A liquid and gas pressure management system is also incorporated with the case and realized by a vent plenum, check valves, bladders, bags, etc.
US08507123B2 Flexible battery and flexible electronic device including the same
A flexible battery and a flexible electronic device including the flexible battery as a power source. The flexible battery includes a cell stack comprising a plurality of unit cells, and an external casing sealing the cell stack, wherein each of the unit cells comprises a negative electrode, a positive electrode, an electrolyte layer disposed between the negative electrode and the positive electrode, and a first polymer film at least partially surrounding the negative electrode, the positive electrode, and the electrolyte layer.
US08507117B2 Lithium ion secondary battery, assembled battery, vehicle, battery-equipped device, battery system, and method for detecting deterioration of lithium ion secondary battery
Provided are a lithium-ion secondary battery capable of measuring the concentration of lithium ions in an stored electrolyte in a predetermined portion, an assembled battery using the same, a vehicle and a battery-equipped device equipped with the battery or the assembled battery, a battery system capable of acquiring the concentration-correlated physical quantity in the lithium-ion secondary battery, and a method for detecting the deterioration of the lithium-ion secondary battery. A lithium-ion secondary battery comprises a power generation element including a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, a battery case housing the power generation element, and an electrolyte containing lithium ions and held in the battery case, and further comprises a stored-electrolyte physical quantity measuring means capable of measuring the concentration-correlated physical quantity having a correlation to the concentration of lithium ions in the stored electrolyte stored between the element and the case.
US08507113B2 Magnetic sensor stack body, method of forming the same, film formation control program, and recording medium
The present invention is directed to align crystal c-axes in magnetic layers near two opposed junction wall surfaces of a magnetoresistive element so as to be almost perpendicular to the junction wall surfaces. A magnetic sensor stack body has, on sides of opposed junction wall surfaces of a magnetoresistive element, field regions for applying a bias magnetic field to the element. The field region has first and second magnetic layers having magnetic particles having crystal c-axes, the first magnetic layer is disposed adjacent to the junction wall surface in the field region, the crystal c-axes in the first magnetic layer are aligned and oriented along an ABS in a film plane, the second magnetic layer is disposed adjacent to the first magnetic layer in the field region, and the crystal c-axis directions in the second magnetic layer are distributed at random in a plane.
US08507109B2 Multi-layer hard file for indexable insert
The present invention discloses a multi-layer hard film for an indexable insert. The multi-layer hard film for the indexable insert provided by the present invention is formed by sequentially depositing a base layer, an intermediate layer and a top layer with different composition ratios and film structures individually on the indexable insert, thus minimizing a delamination and tool wear which may occur in high speed machining.
US08507107B2 Electronic device housing and method for making the same
An electronic device housing is provided. The electronic device housing includes a substrate, a first metallic coating formed on the substrate, and a second metallic coating formed on a portion of the first metallic coating. The first and second metallic coatings are formed by vacuum sputtering or vacuum vapor deposition. The first and second metallic coatings are all non-conductive. A method for making the electronic device housing is also described there.
US08507106B2 Benzophenanthrene derivative and organic electroluminescent device employing the same
A fused aromatic ring derivative shown by the following formula (1): wherein Ra and Rb are independently a hydrogen atom or a substituent, p is an integer of 1 to 8 and q is an integer of 1 to 11, when p is 2 or more, plural Ras may be independently the same or different and adjacent Ras may form a ring, when q is 2 or more, plural Rbs may be independently the same or different, L1 is a single bond, or a substituted or unsubstituted divalent linking group, and Ar1 is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 50 ring carbon atoms or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl group having 5 to 50 ring atoms, provided that the substituent of L1, the substituent of Ar1, Ra and Rb contain no substituted or unsubstituted amino group.
US08507105B2 Thermal spray coated rolls for molten metal baths
This invention relates to rolls for use in or in contact with molten metal comprising a roll drum having an outer peripheral surface and a thermally sprayed coating on the outer peripheral surface of said roll drum, said thermally sprayed coating comprising from about 66 to about 88 weight percent of tungsten, from about 2.5 to about 6 weight percent of carbon, from about 6 to about 20 weight percent of cobalt, and from about 2 to about 9 weight percent of chromium; a process for preparing the rolls; a method for forming a metal layer on a metal sheet utilizing the rolls, e.g., galvanization; and a thermal spray powder for coating the outer peripheral surface of the rolls.
US08507102B1 Conductive leather materials and methods for making the same
Conductive leather materials and methods for making the same are provided. The conductive leather materials may have a conductivity suitable to operate touch-sensitive electronic devices without a conductive path to the human body.
US08507101B2 Biocorrodible implant having a corrosion-inhibiting coating
A biocorrodible implant includes a base formed from magnesium or a biocorrodible magnesium alloy, whose surface has a corrosion-inhibiting coating. A diffusion layer, which covers the base, differs in composition from the implant material. The diffusion layer contains at least one metallic element of the implant material and at least one corrosion-inhibiting element selected from the group of Al, Zn, Ca, Si, In, Mn, Sc and RE, where RE stands for rare earth metals. The implant optionally includes a metal layer of at least one of the corrosion-inhibiting elements selected from the group of Al, Zn, Ca, Si, In, Mn, Sc and RE covering the diffusion layer, and a passivating layer of metal oxides, metal nitrides or metal fluorides of at least one of the corrosion-inhibiting elements selected from the group of Al, Zn, Ca, Si, In, Mn, Sc and RE covering the diffusion layer or the metal layer.
US08507099B2 Coated article having low-E coating with absorber layer(s)
A coated article is provided, having a coating supported by a glass substrate where the coating includes at least one color and/or reflectivity-adjusting absorber layer. The absorber layer(s) allows color tuning, and reduces the glass side reflection of the coated article and/or allows sheet resistance of the coating to be reduced without degrading glass side reflection. In certain example embodiments the absorber layer is provided between first and second dielectric layers which may be of substantially the same material and/or composition. In certain example embodiments, the coated article is capable of achieving desirable transmission, together with desired color, low reflectivity, and low selectivity, when having only one infrared (IR) reflecting layer of silver and/or gold. Coated articles according to certain example embodiments of this invention may be used in the context of insulating glass (IG) window units, monolithic windows, or the like.
US08507098B2 Wear resistant coatings and tiles and methods of making same
The various embodiments of the present invention are directed to wear resistant coatings, tiles having the wear resistant coatings disposed thereon, and to methods of making the coatings and tiles. A wear resistant coating generally includes a strontium aluminosilicate glass-ceramic composition that is formed from a glaze. The glaze can include a crystallizing component, which itself can include strontium, aluminum, and silicon, but also comprises less than about 2 weight percent each of lithium, boron, barium, sodium, iron, titanium, zirconium, and carbon, based on a total weight of the crystallizing component.
US08507086B2 Seaming tape and method of sealing window film seams
A corrosion resistant seaming tape includes a metal layer capable of blocking selected frequencies of electromagnetic radiation arranged on a polymeric substrate and covered with adhesive that protects the metal layer and prevents it from corroding. Also disclosed is a method of sealing a seam between adjacent edges of two adjacent pieces of window film including an internal metal layer by applying a polymeric film to the seam.
US08507085B2 Anti-corrosion treatment process for aluminum or aluminum alloy and aluminum or aluminum alloy article thereof
An aluminum or aluminum alloy article is described. The aluminum or aluminum alloy article includes an aluminum or aluminum alloy substrate, a barrier layer formed on the substrate, a color layer formed on the barrier layer, and an insulation layer formed on the color layer. The barrier layer and the color layer are formed by vacuum sputtering. The barrier layer is a layer of silver-aluminum-oxygen-nitrogen. The insulation layer is an external layer of the aluminum or aluminum alloy article.
US08507084B2 Multilayer sealant film
A multilayer film suitable for sealing containers such as used for food packaging, and methods of making the film, are described. The film is particularly suitable for sealing containers made from polylactic acid (PLA). The multilayer film includes a) a substrate that includes a polymeric base layer; and b) on the substrate, a heatseal layer containing a PLA homopolymer or copolymer. The heatseal layer further includes dispersed therein an adhesion promoter, or alternatively the substrate further includes the adhesion promoter in a layer on a surface of the polymeric base layer between and adjacent the base layer and the heatseal layer. An antifog agent may also be included in the heatseal layer or on the surface of the heatseal layer opposite the substrate.
US08507077B1 Camouflage branding system and method
A camouflage system includes a layer of an adhesion promoter so paint will adhere to the surface of an article and a first layer of paint applied to the surface on top of the adhesion promoter. A second layer of paint of a different color is applied to a portion of the first layer of paint. The second layer of paint may be in the form of a design, symbol, brand, logo, mark, and/or name. A multi-color layer is then applied to the surface of the article over the layers of paint. The multi-color layer may be a camouflage ink pattern. A clear coat may be applied over the multi-color layer. The multi-color layer affects the visual appearance of the second layer of paint. The second layer of paint may be visible at one viewing angle and may be less visible or non-visible at a different viewing angle.
US08507076B2 Combination of base layer and ink for inkjet for manufacturing electronic component
A base layer is formed on the surface of metal plate, metal pipe, unbaked ceramic sheet, laminated ceramic green sheet, etc., the base layer causing a gelling reaction with inkjet-ink. The base layer improves ink acceptability for low viscosity inks such as inkjet-ink, and prevents oozing, draining, uneven thickness of an ink pattern and a resist pattern. Thus, the present invention enables to use an ink jet process for providing resist patterns for etching, etc., which has to fulfill stringent high precision requirements.
US08507075B2 Adhesion method for attaching barrier sheets to motor vehicle door panels
A methodology for adhesively attaching a barrier sheet to a motor vehicle inside door panel. A plurality of adhesive beds are disposed on the attachment face of a barrier sheet, whereby pressure applied to the barrier sheet causes the adhesive beads to wet-out with respect to the door inside panel and mergingly wet-out with respect to each other so as to thereby form an adhesive band. Visual inspection of the continuity of the merged wet-out through the barrier sheet provides installer feedback regarding installation integrity.
US08507073B2 Exterior parts
An exterior part (200) includes (a) a structure color generation portion (210) having a minute shape (structure color generation region (211)) formed therein, light in a visible light range being produced from the minute shape by a physical phenomenon such as interference or diffraction with the incidence of light, and (b) a resin portion (220) that is made of resin having a light transmitting property and serves as the outer surface of a product, (c) the structure color generation portion (210) and the resin portion (220) are formed by molding, and (d) the structure color generation portion (210) is made of resin different from the resin of the resin portion (220), and covered with the resin portion (220).
US08507072B2 Antenna apparatus
An antenna apparatus used in a wireless communication medium or a wireless communication medium processing apparatus constructed by a constitution of including a magnetic member in which a magnetic ceramic powder is used as a major component thereof and which is provided with flexibility; an antenna formed at a surface or inside of the magnetic member, and a matching circuit of the antenna formed at the surface or the inside of the magnetic member.
US08507068B2 Element sealed body and method of producing the same
An element sealed body comprises a glass substrate, an element mounted on the glass substrate, and a protective glass for sealing the element, wherein a surface of the protective glass and a surface of the glass substrate, which are brought into contact with each other, have a surface roughness Ra of 2.0 nm or less respectively.
US08507066B2 Paint masking for corners
A paint mask particularly adapted for masking corner areas of a demarcation zone to facilitate painting of an area of a workpiece disposed on the other side of the demarcation zone is formed of a thin, flexible sheet having opposite faces. The paint mask includes a first leg and a second leg that are generally rectangular in shape, and the legs intersect to form a right angle adapted for masking a corner and adjacent area. The bottom side of the paint mask which contacts the surface to be masked includes an adhesive for adhering the mask to the workpiece. The top side has release means for releasing stacked paint masks from each other.
US08507060B2 Pressure vessel
A pressure vessel includes a liner, a reinforcing layer, and a protective layer. An inside of the liner forms a reserving chamber. The reinforcing layer is made of fiber reinforced plastic and is provided on an outer surface of the liner. A protective layer is provided on an outer surface of the reinforcing layer and includes fiber materials and a thermally foamed material. The thermally foamed material is interposed between the fiber materials.
US08507058B2 Sensor buffer cover for digital X-ray imager
A sensor buffer cover is provided that is easily held at a fixed position without pain or discomfort to a patient to enable high-definition imaging. It is a sensor buffer cover wherein a cover body constituted as a flexible bag body into which a sensor unit is inserted comprises an inner bag-like sheet made of resin and formed in a rectangular shape to have an opening at one end in the longitudinal direction and an outer sheath member at the base of the inner bag-like sheet constituted as a flexible bag body formed in approximately the same shape as the sensor unit, which covers the periphery of the sensor unit inserted therein and is open at one end in the longitudinal direction, the outer peripheral edge of the base of the inner bag-like sheet and the outer peripheral edge of the outer sheath member covering the base of the inner bag-like sheet being fusion-bonded on three sides to leave an opening and obtain a double bag-like structure.
US08507045B2 Sizing additives for drycleaning processes
A fabric treatment composition including a sizing agent and a silicone solvent is provided. The sizing agent is a hydrogenated rosin ester. The silicone solvent is a volatile silicone solvent. Optionally, co-solvents and dispersing agents may be included. A method of treating a fabric article and the treated fabric article are provided.
US08507038B2 Substrate having a coating comprising copper and method for the production thereof by means of atomic layer deposition
A method can be used for the production of a coated substrate. The coating contains copper. A copper precursor and a substrate are provided. The copper precursor is a copper(I) complex which contains no fluorine. A copper-containing layer is deposited by means of atomic layer deposition (ALD) at least on partial regions of the substrate surface by using the precursor. Optionally, a reduction step is performed in which a reducing agent acts on the substrate obtained in the layer deposition step. In various embodiments, the precursor is a complex of the formula L2Cu(X∩X) in which L are identical or different σ-donor-π acceptor ligands and/or identical or different σ,π-donor-π acceptor ligands and X∩X is a bidentate ligand which is selected from the group consisting of β-diketonates, β-ketoiminates, β-diiminates, amidinates, carboxylates and thiocarboxylates.
US08507034B2 Controlling top of the line corrosion in hydrocarbon pipelines
Processes and methods are provided for applying corrosion inhibitor within a foam matrix to the top of the line of wet gas pipelines. The environment within a hydrocarbon containing pipeline may include fluids that form strong acids in the gas space at the upper portion of the pipeline and can rapidly corrode a carbon steel pipeline. The solution provides a foam matrix created by a combination of foaming agent, foaming gas and corrosion inhibitor that are each selected to be compatible with each other and with the hydrocarbon mixture to form a stable foam matrix that treats the top of the line position for the length of the pipeline. A foam breaking agent at the end of the pipeline can be injected, if needed.
US08507028B2 Visualization and enhancement of latent fingerprints using low pressure dye vapor deposition
Methods and apparatus for the recovery, visualization and enhancement of latent fingerprints using Low Pressure Dye Vapor Deposition (LPDVD) are described. The LPDVD methods of the present invention provide for fine control over the deposition of a precursor in combination with a fluorescent dye, combination of dyes or a premixed dry solid compound of the precursor and dyestuffs, to make the latent fingerprints visible. The LPDVD process makes use of a heated carrier gas to dilute and carry the vapors into a vacuum chamber where they condense onto the exposed surfaces of the article being developed. The LPDVD process can be used to develop latent fingerprints on a wide variety of substrates, including metal, plastic, glass and thermal paper and has been shown to perform as well or better than conventional fingerprint development techniques on these surfaces.
US08507021B2 Reduced fat chocolate
The present invention provides a reduced fat chocolate composition comprising erythritol. In one embodiment the chocolate composition is characterized in that it has a total fat content of from 15 wt % to 24.9 wt %. In another embodiment the chocolate composition comprising erythritol is characterized in that it has a total fat content of from 15 wt % to 26 wt % and does not comprise inulin or fructo oligosaccharide (FOS). A process for the preparation of the chocolate composition is provided, said process having processing parameters similar to those for high fat chocolate.
US08507020B2 Gas flush high pressure pasteurization packaging and associated methods
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for packaging perishable foods. A packaging method in accordance with several embodiments of the disclosure can include, for example, mating a tray with a product. The tray can include a compartment having a generally similar shape as the shape of the product. The method can further include gas flushing an internal atmosphere around a product, and sealing the product and the internal atmosphere between a lid and the tray. Additionally, the method can include pasteurizing the product with an application of substantially uniform high pressure to a surface area of the package (e.g., high pressure pasteurization).
US08507018B2 Products containing polyphenol(s) and L-arginine and methods of use thereof
Foods and pharmaceuticals which contain cocoa and/or nut procyanidin(s) in combination with L-arginine are effective to induce a physiological increase in nitric oxide production in a mammal having ingested the product. A preferred food product is a confection, particularly a dark or milk chocolate containing nuts. The procyanidins may be natural or synthetic and may be provided by food ingredients such as chocolate liquor and/or cocoa solids prepared from underfermented beans and nut skins. The L-arginine may be natural or synthetic and may be provided by food ingredients such as nut meats, nut pastes, and/or nut flours, seeds, seed pastes, and/or seed flours, or gelatin. The beneficial health effects may include, for example, reduced blood pressure, resistance to cardiovascular disease, and anticancer activity.
US08507017B2 Method for decreasing nicotine and other substance use in humans
A method for decreasing nicotine and other substance use in humans is disclosed. Tetrahydroberberine (THB) and its analogs, l-Tetrahydropalmatine (l-THP) and l-Stepholidine (l-SPD), are present in and can be isolated from several plants in the Magnoliidae superorder. According to the disclosed method, THB and its analogs are used to block nicotine-induced DA release, and modulate heterologous or homoeric expression of human nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) in humans. Specifically, THB exhibits bi-directory modulation of α4β2-nAChR-mediated currents induced by nicotine. THB also shows predominant inhibition on homologously expressed α7-nAChR function. Thus, according to the disclosed method, THB is used to simultaneous blockade midbrain DA system function, the brain reward center, and neuronal α4β2- and α7-nAChR function, the major nicotine targets in the brain. Therefore, THB and its analogs serve as a novel class of natural compounds to decrease nicotine dependence in humans. Furthermore other substances, such as alcohol, cocaine, and opiates, also operate by triggering the brain reward center, resulting in a cycle of substance or alcohol abuse. THB and its analogs can be used to decrease use of substances such as alcohol, cocaine, and opiates. Finally, because THB and its analogs are DA antagonists, THB and its analogs can also be used as a treatment for Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease and Schizophrenia.
US08507007B2 Dermatological composition that can be used in particular for the care and prevention of eschars
The invention relates to a composition formulated for a topical application to the skin containing, as essential constituents, peroxide lipids that have a degree of peroxidation between 30 and 500 milliequivalents per kg of peroxide lipids and cod liver oil. This composition can be used as a medical device, in order to form a protective film on the skin, especially for the care of irritated skin and/or skin that has red spots and/or skin that has superficial lesions, and/or as an adjuvant in skin massaging operations. It is most particularly useful for the care and/or prevention of eschars.
US08507006B2 Porous particles loaded with cosmetically or pharmaceutically active compounds
Individualized porous particles having a volume-average diameter of less than or equal to 10 μm and a specific surface area of greater than or equal to 1 m2/g, and that include at least one cosmetically or pharmaceutically active compound present at least inside the particles.
US08507000B2 Controlled release formulation of erythromycin derivatives
The present invention is directed to a controlled release formulation in tablet form comprising a pharmaceutically effective amount of an erythromycin derivative and a lubricating effective amount of a lubricant in the absence of material selected from the group consisting of alginic acid or salts thereof or hydrophilic sustained release polymers in amounts effective to retard the release of the erythromycin derivatives in the pharmaceutical composition. It is also directed to a method for facilitating the release of erythromycin derivative from a pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a lubricating effective amount of a lubricant said method comprising adding to said composition an release promoter in tablet disintegrating effective amounts to facilitate the release of the erythromycin derivative from the tablet.
US08506998B2 Pharmaceutical formulation
A solid, oral controlled release pharmaceutical dosage form has a water-soluble active ingredient dispersed in a matrix and releases the active ingredient at such a rate upon administration that the median tmax is 2.5 to 6 hours and the ratio of mean Cmax to mean plasma level of the active ingredient at 24 hours is in the range of 1.5 to 3.5.
US08506996B2 Therapeutic delivery system
Therapeutic delivery systems are provided which, in a first embodiment, contain a plurality of multiphase capsules in which first and second therapeutic agents are contained in separate phases within said multiphase capsules, and are disposed to deliver said first and therapeutic agents by at least two different delivery mechanisms.
US08506994B2 Use of the cathelicidin LL-37 and derivatives thereof for wound healing
Use of the antimicrobial cathelicidin peptide II-37, N-terminal fragments of LL-37 or extended sequences of LL-37 having 1-3 amino acids in the C-terminal end, for stimulating proliferation of epithelial and stromal cells and thereby healing of wounds, such as chronic ulcers. The cytotoxic effect of LL-37 may be reduced by including a bilayer-forming polar lipid, especially a digalactosyldiacylglycerol, in pharmaceutical compositions and growth media comprising LL-37.
US08506993B2 Compositions and methods for making and using multifunctional polymerized liposomes
According to some embodiments, the present invention provides compositions and methods for making and using multifunctional polymerized liposomes finding relevant application in medical sciences, particularly in bioimaging, diagnostics, drug delivery, and drug formulation. The compositions and methods involve lipids that are both polymerizable and have a “clickable” group that provides the ability to functionalize via a click reaction with various functional moieties useful for the above-listed applications.
US08506991B2 Nicotine transdermal preparation and production method thereof
The present invention provides a production method of a nicotine transdermal preparation, which is capable of producing a nicotine transdermal preparation conveniently and economically, while maintaining highly precise content uniformity, which is capable of producing a preparation simultaneously achieving fixedness and a soft feeling during adhesion, associated with reduced skin irritation upon peeling off and superior in adhesive property. The present invention provides a nicotine transdermal preparation superior in content uniformity, simultaneously achieving fixedness and a soft feeling during adhesion, and showing reduced skin irritation upon peeling off.The present invention provides a method of producing a preparation containing a support and an adhesive layer formed thereon, which adhesive layer containing nicotine and a liquid ingredient compatible with the adhesive, which method includes (1) providing the adhesive layer wherein a contact angle of nicotine with the adhesive layer before containing nicotine is 20-60°, and (2) applying nicotine to the adhesive layer to allow absorption of nicotine into the adhesive layer, as well as a preparation containing a support and an adhesive layer formed thereon, which adhesive layer including nicotine and a liquid ingredient compatible with the adhesive, wherein a contact angle of nicotine with the adhesive layer before containing nicotine is 20-60°.
US08506989B2 Preparation comprising a creatine component, method for the production thereof, and the use thereof
The invention relates to a preparation comprising a creatine component, which has excellent bio-availability and leads to improved creatine retention in the human and animal body. The present invention further relates to a method for the production of said preparation, and to the use thereof as a nutritional supplement, functional food, animal feed additive, pharmaceutical, and as an additive for cosmetic and dermatologic formulations.
US08506987B2 Ocular implant made by a double extrusion process
The invention provides biodegradable implants sized for implantation in an ocular region and methods for treating medical conditions of the eye. The implants are formed from a mixture of hydrophilic end and hydrophobic end PLGA, and deliver active agents into an ocular region without a high burst release.
US08506986B2 Sustained release intraocular implants and methods for treating ocular vasculopathies
Biocompatible intraocular implants include an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist and a polymer associated with the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist to facilitate release of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist into an eye for an extended period of time. The alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist may be associated with a biodegradable polymer matrix, such as a matrix of a two biodegradable polymers. The implants may be placed in an eye to treat one or more ocular conditions, such as an ocular vasculopathy or glaucoma, among others.
US08506985B2 Bone regeneration materials based on combinations of monetite and other bioactive calcium and silicon compounds
The present invention incorporates new materials for bone regeneration, methods for their manufacture, and application in traumatology surgery, maxillofacial surgery, dental surgery, orthognatic surgery, endodontics, ophthalmology, neurosurgery and/or osteoporotic processes, and other indications where bone regeneration is required. In particular, the present invention incorporates synthetic materials with a 20% to a 95%, preferably between 40% and 90% in mass of monetite [Ca1-XMXHPO4, where 0≦x≦0.05, and where M can be a divalent metallic ion], and which in their final composition incorporate between 5% and 80%, preferably between 0% and 60%, in mass of bioactive calcium compounds chosen from calcium phosphates and between 5% and 80% in total mass of bioactive silicon compounds chosen from calcium silicates and/or bioactive silica glasses and gels.
US08506984B2 Therapeutic agent elution control process
Medical devices, and in particular implantable medical devices, may be coated to minimize or substantially eliminate a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. The medical devices may be coated with any number of biocompatible materials. Therapeutic drugs, agents or compounds may be mixed with the biocompatible materials and affixed to at least a portion of the medical device. These therapeutic agents or compounds may also further reduce a biological organism's reaction to the introduction of the medical device to the organism. In addition, these therapeutic drugs, agents and/or compounds may be utilized to promote healing, including the prevention of thrombosis. The drugs, agents, and/or compounds may also be utilized to treat specific disorders, including vulnerable plaque. Implantable coated medical devices may be processed through annealing to better control the elution characteristics of the therapeutic agents. Furthermore, annealing leads to better therapeutic agent stability and a larger device shelf-life.
US08506977B2 Caramel-coated insecticide
An insect bait comprising particles of an insect-killing compound onto which a coating of insect attracting material has been applied, and the method by which this bait is prepared.
US08506976B2 Makeup composition comprising encapsulated carbon black
The present invention relates to cosmetic make-up compositions, in particular mascaras, comprising carbon black encapsulated in a spherical silica matrix. These compositions are characterized by a deep and glossy black color.
US08506974B2 Silicon-free hydrocarbons providing aesthetic volatility
Non-silicone-based compositions including hydrocarbons of widely different structures and origins are combined into single, stable, homogenous products with both aesthetic and volatility properties similar to a cyclopentasiloxane. The combinations are useful to cosmetic formulators as full or partial replacement products for cyclopentasiloxanes, or “volatile silicones.”
US08506955B2 Methods for expansion and analysis of cultured hematopoietic stem cells
Methods and kits for propagating hematopoietic stem cells are provided. The methods comprise culturing cells in medium comprising one or more angiopoietin-like proteins, under conditions sufficient for expansion of HSCs. Angiopoietin-like proteins include angiopoietin-like protein 2, angiopoietin-like protein 3, angiopoietin-like protein 4, angiopoietin-like protein 5, angiopoietin-like protein 7, and microfibrillar-associated glycoprotein (Mfap4). Methods for identifying hematopoietic stem cells are provided and isolated hematopoietic stem cells are also provided.
US08506954B2 Tumor vaccination in combination with hematopoietic cell transplantation for cancer therapy
In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for treating cancer comprising tumor cell vaccination in combination with hematopoietic and immune cell transplantation. In some embodiments, the method involves autologous tumor cell vaccination prior to autologous hematopoietic and immune cell transplantation. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of purifying tumor cells from a subject in preparation for vaccination.
US08506952B2 Probiotic compositions and process thereof
Probiotic composition(s) and/or process(es) thereof. Processes may include applying Janthinobacterium, for example Janthinobacterium lividum, over a host and/or host area(s) to minimize microbe(s) and/or maximize therapeutic effects. A process to minimize a microbe may include applying to skin a composition including isolated Janthinobacterium lividum and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Probiotic composition(s) and/or process(es) thereof may include relatively heat tolerant Janthinobacterium lividum which may produce metabolites, for example violacein up to approximately 29° C. Probiotic composition(s) and/or process(es) thereof may include Janthinobacterium lividum between approximately 25×106 and 6.4×107 cells. Probiotic composition(s) and/or process(es) thereof may include Janthinobacterium lividum which has and/or produces between approximately 18 μM and 129 μM of violacein. Probiotic composition(s) and/or process(es) thereof may include a stimulant to maximize metabolites. A process to minimize a microbe may include removing a portion of resident microbes with a sanitizer. Janthinobacterium lividum may be in lysed form.
US08506945B2 Polymers with structure-defined functions
An alternating copolymer comprising a backbone of residues of a maleic anhydride derivative and those of a compound containing vinylic unsaturation, which also comprises residues of an active compound containing a nucleophilic group, bound to the backbone by a residue of the nucleophilic group, including such a copolymer comprising residues of an active compound containing an alcohol, thiol or amine group. The chemical and biological properties of actives, such as protease inhibitors, neurotransmitter drugs, and other small molecule active drugs, are enhanced, and new applications enabled. Also, artefacts, including a solid medical implant device, dressing or scaffold or a fluid adhesive or medicinal composition comprising such a polymer, and a method of use of such a polymer, including a method for the treatment or prophylaxis of wounds.
US08506944B2 Replenishment and enrichment of ocular surface lubrication
An ophthalmic composition, and methods of use thereof, including for treating ocular boundary deficiency, symptoms associated therewith, or undesired condition that is associated with or causes ocular boundary deficiency at the ocular surface or for the treatment or care of ophthalmic devices. The ophthalmic composition comprises a human PRG4 protein, a lubricant fragment, homolog, or isoform thereof, suspended in an ophthalmically acceptable balanced salt solution. The ophthalmic composition may also comprise one or more ophthalmically acceptable agents.
US08506941B2 Agent for fibers containing keratin, containing at least one specific amphiphilic cationic polymer and at least one additional film-forming cationic and/or stabilizing polymer
Agent for treating fibers containing keratin, particularly human hair, comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable carrier: (a) at least one amphiphilic, cationic polymer having at least one structural unit of formulae (I) to (IV), wherein; R1 and R4 are independently hydrogen or a methyl group, X1 and X2 are independently oxygen or an NH group, A1 and A2 are independently an ethane-1,2-diyl, propane-1,3-diyl or butane-1,4-diyl group, R2, R3, R5 and R6 are independently a (C1 to C4)-alkyl group, R7 is a C8 to C30)-alkyl group and; (b) at least one film-forming cationic and/or stabilizing cationic polymer. The invention also relates to use of agents for temporarily styling hair and for haircare, particularly as an aerosol hairspray or mousse.
US08506939B2 Personal care composition
A personal care composition comprising a cationically modified cellulose ether, wherein the cellulose ether comprises from 0.5 to 4 moles of an ether substituent per mole of anhydroglucose repeat unit and the cellulose ether further substituted with a cationic substituent of the formula (I) wherein R1, R2 and R3 each independently are CH3 or C2H5, R4 is CH2—CHOH—CH2 or CH2CH2, Az− is an anion, and z is 1, 2 or 3, and the cellulose ether comprises from 1.15 to 1.44 percent of cationic nitrogen, based on the total weight of the cellulose ether. The cationically modified cellulose ethers which comprise from 6,000 to 15,000 anhydroglucose repeat units are novel.
US08506935B2 Respiratory drug condensation aerosols and methods of making and using them
Described herein are respiratory drug condensation aerosols and methods of making and using them. Kits for delivering condensation aerosols are also described. The respiratory drug aerosols typically comprise respiratory drug condensation aerosol particles. In some variations the respiratory drug compound is selected from the group consisting of β-adrenergics, methylxanthines, anticholinergics, corticosteroids, mediator-release inhibitors, anti-leukotriene drugs, asthma inhibitors, asthma antagonists, anti-endothelin drugs, prostacyclin drugs, ion channel or pump inhibitors, enhancers, or modulators and pharmaceutically acceptable analogs, derivatives, and mixtures thereof. Methods of treating a respiratory ailment using the described aerosols are also described. In general, the methods typically comprise the step of administering a therapeutically effective amount of respiratory drug condensation aerosol to a person with a respiratory ailment. Methods of forming a respiratory drug condensation aerosol are also described. The methods comprise the steps of vaporizing and condensing a respiratory drug composition.
US08506934B2 Methods for detection of biological substances
The invention is directed to a method of detecting a biological substance in the nasal secretion and diagnosing a disease following the detection of the biological substance wherein the biological substance is not related to a respiratory disease. The invention also provides treatment of the diseases following the detection of the biological substance and/or diagnosis of the disease. In some embodiments, the diseases are cancer, hepatitis, smell loss, taste loss, diabetes, and leprosy. The invention also provides a kit for diagnosing a disease. The present invention includes methods of analyzing samples from the nose for the detection of biological substances. In particular, nasal secretion or nasal mucus is collected and analyzed for biological substances. The results of this analysis are then suitable for use in diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of suitability of therapeutic interventions.
US08506928B2 Methods and compounds for targeting tissues
The present invention relates to peptides which home to cells, e.g. heart cells, with high selectivity and which can be useful in the form of compositions. Such compositions can be used, e.g., for selectively targeting a systemically administered therapeutic agent or imaging agent to a cell or tissue in a subject. The present invention further relates to methods of using the compositions for imaging, e.g. PET imaging, and targeting cells, e.g. for delivering a therapeutic agent to one or more target cells in a subject.
US08506915B2 Method for recovering CO2 by means of CaO and the exothermic reduction of a solid
This invention involves a cyclic method for capturing CO2 from gas streams arising from processes of reforming, gasification or combustion of carbonaceous fuels. The method is based on these gas streams reacting with solids that contain at least CaO and a metal or an oxidized form of the metal. The method is characterized by the oxidized form of the metal being able to undergo a sufficiently exothermic reduction reaction for the heat released during the reaction to cause the decomposition of CaCO3. The thermodynamic and kinetic characteristics of the method of this invention make it ideal for the removal of the CO2 present in gas streams resulting from processes such as hydrocarbon reforming or the combustion of carbonaceous fuels.
US08506914B2 N-functionalized imidazole-containing systems and methods of use
Systems containing imidazoles or blends of imidazoles and amines are described herein. Methods of their preparation and use are also described herein. The methods of using the systems include the reduction of volatile compounds from gas streams and liquid streams.
US08506906B2 Microfluidic device
A microfluidic system comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion comprises a material which is able to change its volume when activated by an exciting factor, characterized by the fact that the first portion and the second portion define a zone which, when the first portion is not yet activated by the exciting factor, shows a first topography devoid of any fluidic pathway and which, after activation by the exciting factor, shows a second topography which is adapted to contain at least one fluidic pathway. The microfluidic system further comprises a tight cover surface situated above the first portion and the second portion.
US08506905B2 Method of forming bilayer membrane by contact between amphipathic monolayers and apparatus therefor
The present invention provides simple and an accurate apparatuses for forming bilayer membranes by the contact of amphipathic monolayers. In one apparatus, amphipathic monolayers are brought into contact and fused by controlling the pressure of liquids introduced from microchannels forming an intersection containing a chamber. In another apparatus, the chamber includes a number of compartments and at least one construction portion. In this apparatus, a droplet is formed within each compartment and contact of amphipatic monolayers is accomplished by adjusting the size of the droplets.
US08506902B2 Colorimetric sensor
Colorimetric sensor films comprising a reflective layer, a polymeric detection layer, and a semi-reflective layer are disclosed. Devices comprising the calorimetric sensor films and methods of making the films and devices are also disclosed.
US08506901B2 All-in-one specimen cup with optically readable results
A biological material test strip and adjacently-located reference color chart are affixed to a lid portion of an all-in-one specimen cup to perform color-based reaction testing of collected biological specimens in an uncalibrated environment. After specimen collection, the lid portion is secured to a container portion of the specimen cup. The cup may then be rotated into an upside down position causing the specimen, under the force of gravity, to pass from the container portion and into a volume of the lid portion, such that the test strip is exposed to the specimen as it is received into the volume of the lid portion. An image of the exposed test strip and adjacently-located reference color chart may then be captured and processed to identify any color matches between the individual test pads on the test strip and the corresponding sequences of reference color blocks on the reference chart.
US08506900B1 Methods and apparatuses for applying agent to objects
Methods and apparatus for the sanitization, detoxification, disinfection, high level disinfection, or sterilization of both the interior and exterior surfaces of at least one object, including interior lumens, channels and cavities within the object. A coupler and interface may be secured to an object to disinfect the inner channels or cavities therein. At least two grippers may be used to retain an object for the application of at least one agent thereto. The applied agent may be in the form of any gas, vapor, plasma, aerosol, or other form. The temperature of the object may be lowered to condensate applied agent thereupon. The object may also be washed. Complete sanitization, disinfection, or sterilization of objects in a simple chamber, or in more complex configurations that include, glove box units, processors with built in interfaces for specialty applications, and other application specific designs.
US08506899B2 Waste processing
Disinfection of waste can be carried out by applying sufficient vacuum to suck waste pieces through a processing system, the vacuum creating a wind inside the system that sweeps up the waste pieces, suspends them in air, and keeps them separate from one another, thereby exposing substantially all surfaces of the waste pieces to the sprayed disinfectant.
US08506896B2 Automatic dishwashing product
An automatic dishwashing product comprising a multi-dosing detergent delivery device comprising a housing (101, 110) for receiving therein a detergent holder (102) and a detergent holder (102) accommodating a plurality of detergent doses (104, 106) wherein the doses comprises at least two different types of detergent compositions, a first compositions comprising a halogen bleach and a second composition comprising enzymes and a bleach scavenger.
US08506892B2 Exhaust gas purifying device for diesel engine
The present invention relates to an exhaust gas purifying device for a diesel engine, which purifies efficiently Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Particulate Matters (PM) contained in exhaust gases of the diesel engine, particularly provides an exhaust gas purifying device disposed in an exhaust passage of a diesel engine, wherein a catalyst part for reducing Nitrogen Oxides and a filter part for removing Particulate Matter are provided sequentially from an upstream for a flow of the exhaust gas and a diesel fuel injector is mounted at a front of the Nitrogen Oxide reduction catalyst part.
US08506890B2 Method for purification of silica particles, purifier, and purified silica particles
To provide a treatment method having excellent purification effect, in which impurities having high ionicity in a silica powder can be removed in a short time, an apparatus thereof, and a purified silica powder. A purification method of a silica powder comprises making a silica powder into a fluid state; contacting a purified gas to the silica powder in the fluid state at high temperature; and thereby removing impurity components of the silica powder. In the method, the silica powder in the fluid state is positioned in a magnetic field region. Further, the silica powder is contacted with the purified gas, while applying voltage to the silica powder by an electric field generated by moving of the silica powder. Preferably, the silica powder in a fluid state is positioned in the magnetic region of 10 gausses or more, and contacted with the purification gas at a temperature of I000° C. or more.
US08506885B2 Method and system for inlet temperature monitoring for centralized heat disinfection of dialysis machine inlet lines
A method for inlet temperature monitoring for centralized heat disinfection of dialysis machine inlet lines is described. The method can be used, for example, for a dialysis system which has a central water processing system used at a multiple patient dialysis treatment clinic or center. A central water processing system and a plurality of dialysis machines having fluid inlets are fluidly connected to a water supply loop which circulates heated water from the central water processing system to the dialysis machines and back to the central water processing system. A dialysis system for centralized heat disinfection of dialysis machine inlet lines of dialysis machines supplied with water by a central water processing system also is provided.
US08506884B2 γ phase strengthened Fe—Ni base superalloy
A γ′ phase strengthened Fe—Ni base superalloy comprising 1.0 to 3.0 wt % of Nb, 10 to 20 wt % of Cr, 30 to 50 wt % of Fe, 1.0 to 2.0 wt % of Ti, 1.0 to 2.0 wt % of Al, 0.02 wt % or less of C, the balance being Ni and inevitable impurities wherein an area of NbC in a cross sectional structure thereof is 0.4% or less. A hydrogen flow meter for high pressure hydrogen that uses the Fe—Ni base superalloy material mentioned above.
US08506880B2 Iron bath-type melting furnace
An iron melting furnace has a refractory lined furnace body having a top opening through which raw materials including a raw material iron source, a carbonaceous material and a slag forming material may be introduced. A heating system is provided for injecting oxygen-containing gas into the furnace body to combust the carbonaceous material, whereby combustion heat can melt the raw material iron source to generate molten iron and molten slag to form a molten iron and slag bath. A plurality of tap holes penetrate the furnace body and are provided at positions different from one another in a height direction of the furnace body, and a refractory filling which is different from the refractory liner material fills at least one of the tap holes such that molten iron or slag in the furnace is unable to flow through the tap hole being filled with the refractory material.
US08506878B2 Rod or wire manufacturing system, related methods, and related products
A cooling unit, a heating-cooling operation including a cooling unit, a rod or wire manufacturing system, a method for manufacturing a rod or wire, a method for heat treating of a rod or wire, a method for treating metal, a steel rod or steel wire, and a treated metal having an improved tensile strength are disclosed. The cooling unit includes at least one adaptable quenching zone and at least one adaptable soaking zone. The at least one adaptable quenching zone is capable of quenching to a soaking temperature. The at least one adaptable soaking zone is capable of maintaining substantially the soak temperature.
US08506876B2 Method to control automatic pouring equipment and system therefor
The present invention provides a method to control automatic pouring equipment that can pour molten metal in a desired sequence, and it also provides the system therefor. The method to control the automatic pouring equipment comprises pouring the molten metal by three servomotors that are each driven and controlled by a PLC and that act to have the ladle tilted, hoisted, and move backward and forward, characterized in that the method comprises pouring the molten metal into the mold from the ladle by a continuous driving of the servomotors by the instructions given by the PLC, at the same time measuring the weight of the automatic pouring equipment, including the weight of the three servomotors by a means to measure the weight, and calculating the change of the weight of the molten metal in the ladle by the PLC, and in that the method comprises pouring the molten metal, disregarding the results of measurements obtained by the means to measure the weight of the automatic pouring equipment, including the weight of the three servomotors, when an acceleration force works on the ladle.
US08506875B2 Single sided shuttle-type blow molding method
A single-sided shuttle-type blow molding apparatus having an extruder for substantially continuously extruding a thermoplastic material in tubular form at a moldable temperature downwardly along a vertical axis. The apparatus includes a mold having a set of mold parts adapted to open and close relative to each other to define, when closed, a mold cavity. A shuttle having the mold mounted thereon is arranged to move along a closed path from a first position wherein the mold engages, when open, a finite length of the thermoplastic tube, to a second position away from the first position. The apparatus further includes a blow head adapted to blow the finite length of the thermoplastic tube to form the container as the mold moves from the first position to the second position of the closed path. The apparatus includes no more than one mold. A method is also described.
US08506867B2 Printing semiconductor elements by shear-assisted elastomeric stamp transfer
Provided are methods and devices for transfer printing of semiconductor elements to a receiving surface. In an aspect, the printing is by conformal contact between an elastomeric stamp inked with the semiconductor elements and a receiving surface, and during stamp removal, a shear offset is applied between the stamp and the receiving surface. The shear-offset printing process achieves high printing transfer yields with good placement accuracy. Process parameter selection during transfer printing, including time varying stamp-backing pressure application and vertical displacement, yields substantially constant delamination rates with attendant transfer printing improvement.
US08506863B1 Method for adhering a microfluidic chip to a substrate
A method for adhering two layers of materials is described. An additional layer of material deposited on one of the layers is used. The additional layer of material is perforated and undercut by etching away one of the layers thereby generating anchor shaped holes. The other layer is then deposited on the additional layer filling the anchor shaped holes therefore, providing adhesion.
US08506860B2 Method for manufacturing crosslinked foam
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing foam, including the steps of sealing a mold by providing a lower mold having an arbitrarily-shaped molding surface, and then sequentially placing a middle mold having at least one arbitrarily-shaped protrusion formed on one side thereof or both sides thereof and an upper mold having an arbitrarily-shaped molding surface on the lower mold; simultaneously forming an upper preform and a lower preform, which are prevented from foaming, by charging a foaming material in an inner molding space of each of the upper mold and the lower mold, which are divided by the middle mold; opening the mold and removing the middle mold from the mold; placing an interface material in grooves formed in the preform by the protrusion of the middle mold such that the upper preform and the lower preform are prevented from cross-linking with each other; and simultaneously cross-linking and foaming the upper preform and the lower preform by sealing the mold.
US08506856B2 Method for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses
The invention provides a method for making silicone hydrogel contact lenses. The method of the invention is characterized by using a solvent mixture including at least one organic solvent which dissolves the polymerizable material in a lens-forming composition and a small amount of water. By having a small amount of water in the lens-forming composition, the mechanical strength of lenses cast-molded from the lens-forming composition can be sufficiently high so that the lenses can survives during mold opening and demolding process, thereby increasing the production yield.
US08506852B2 Electrode materials with high surface conductivity
The present invention concerns electrode materials capable of redox reactions by electron and alkali-ion exchange with an electrolyte. The applications are in the field of primary (batteries) or secondary electrochemical generators, supercapacitors and light modulating systems of the electrochromic type.
US08506851B2 Electrode materials with high surface conductivity
The present invention concerns electrode materials capable of redox reactions by electron and alkali-ion exchange with an electrolyte. The applications are in the field of primary (batteries) or secondary electrochemical generators, supercapacitors and light modulating systems of the electrochromic type.
US08506849B2 Additives and modifiers for solvent- and water-based metallic conductive inks
A conductive ink includes metallic nanoparticles, a polymeric dispersant, and a solvent. The polymeric dispersant may be ionic, non-ionic, or any combination of ionic and non-ionic polymeric dispersants. The solvent may include water, an organic solvent, or any combination thereof. The conductive ink may include a stabilizing agent, an adhesion promoter, a surface tension modifier, a defoaming agent, a leveling additive, a rheology modifier, a wetting agent, an ionic strength modifier, or any combination thereof.
US08506848B2 Semielectroconductive polyimide resin belt and process for producing semielectroconductive polyimide resin belt
A semiconductive polyimide resin belt that exhibits excellent electrical properties, including the ability to achieve accurate image transfer in a color image-forming unit, and the ability to prevent variations in resistance due to the transfer voltage, enabling high-quality transfer images to be stably produced over an extended period of time; and excellent physical properties, including resistance to deterioration in flatness due to plastic deformation caused by loads applied in the width direction of the belt, excellent durability, and stable operation even after extended use; and an intermediate transfer belt made of the semiconductive polyimide resin belt. The semiconductive polyimide resin belt comprises carbon black and a polyimide resin. The polyimide resin is obtained by imidization of terphenyl-3,3′,4,4′-tetracarboxylic dianhydride and an aromatic diamine component containing 50 mol % or more of an aromatic diamine having 3 and/or 4 aromatic rings based on a total amount of the aromatic diamine component.
US08506846B2 Char supported catalysts for syngas cleanup and conditioning
A catalyst comprising a physical mixture of particles of a catalytic material and particles of char is provided. The catalyst can be used in various processes, including the reforming of tars present in syngas generated during biomass gasification. The catalyst is produced through a mechanical mixing of the catalytic material and char particles, which results in significant time and energy savings over methods of catalyst preparation that involve impregnation and calcining of a support material.
US08506845B2 Scintillator material
A scintillator material contains a compound represented by a general formula [Cs1-zRbz][I1-x-yBrxCly]:In. In the general formula, x, y, and z satisfy any one of conditions (1), (2), and (3) below. (1) When 0
US08506844B2 Rare-earth doped fluorides and process for preparing
The present invention is directed to rare-earth doped solid state solutions of alkaline earth fluorides having novel luminescence properties, and to a process for preparing them. The invention is useful as identifying markers on articles. Other uses include phosphors for plasma displays, optical frequency multipliers, optical amplifiers and the like.
US08506843B2 White emitting persistent phosphor
This disclosure features a persistent phosphor having the following formula I: Sra,Cab,BacAl2-m-n-o-pOd:Euy,REz,Bm,Znn,Coo,Scp  I where a and b each range from about 0.3 to about 0.7; c is between about 0 and about 0.1; 0.75≦a+b+c+y+z≦1.3; y is between about 0.0005 and about 0.1; RE is any rare earth element alone or in combination; z is between about 0.0005 and about 0.15; m is between about 0.0005 and about 0.30; n is between about 0 and about 0.10; o is between about 0 and about 0.01; p is between about 0 and about 0.10 and d ranges from about 3.945 to about 4.075. Once the persistent phosphor has been excited it appears white in an absence of ambient light. Also featured is an article of manufacture that includes the phosphor.
US08506841B2 Photopolymerizable liquid crystal mixture and manufacturing method of photopolymerizable liquid crystal
A photopolymerizable liquid crystal mixture includes a first photopolymerizable monomer, a second photopolymerizable monomer, a first photoinitiator, a second photoinitiator, and a liquid crystal material. A manufacturing method of photopolymerizable liquid crystal includes the following steps. A first light source is provided to irradiate the photopolymerizable liquid crystal mixture without providing a driving voltage, for inducing photopolymerization of the first photoinitiator and the first photopolymerizable monomer. A second light source is provided to irradiate the photopolymerizable liquid crystal mixture without providing a driving voltage, for inducing photopolymerization of the second photoinitiator and the second photopolymerizable monomer and aligning the liquid crystal material along a direction.
US08506840B2 Composition having ring structure and terminal amine groups, and use thereof as flue gas absorbent
Disclosed is a flue gas absorbent composition which contains a compound and water. The compound has a ring structure and includes terminal primary amine groups and substituted α-carbon atoms neighboring the amine groups. Further, a use of a solution of a compound having a ring structure and terminal amine groups as a flue gas absorbent is disclosed. The absorbent composition includes a ring-structure compound having superior absorption ability when compared to conventional absorbents, thereby exhibiting excellent properties, i.e., flue gas absorption rate improved by 50 to 100% and flue gas absorption capacity improved by 200 to 400%, as compared with currently used absorbents such as monoethanolamine (MEA) and 2-amino-2-methyl-propanol (AMP).
US08506838B2 Sintered ferrite magnet and its production method
A sintered ferrite magnet comprising a first granular ferrite compound phase containing Ca, La, Fe and Co and having a Curie temperature Tc1 between 415° C. and 430° C., and a second granular ferrite compound phase containing Sr, La, Fe and Co and having a Curie temperature Tc2 between 437° C. and 455° C., the volume ratio of the first ferrite compound phase being 50-90%, and the volume ratio of the second ferrite compound phase being 10-50%, with their total volume ratio being 95% or more.
US08506835B2 Cyclic self-limiting CMP removal and associated processing tool
A cyclic method of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) a wafer having a surface includes placing the wafer on a platen in a CMP apparatus and then performing a multi-step CMP comprising process. The multi-step CMP process includes delivering a first chemical composition onto the wafer while on the platen for a first time duration, and without removing the wafer from the platen, delivering a second chemical composition different from the first composition onto the wafer for a second time duration after the first time duration. The multi-step CMP comprising process includes CMP removal using a slurry during one of the first and second time durations and a non-polishing process during the other of the first and second time durations. The multi-step CMP comprising process is repeated a plurality of times.
US08506833B2 Molded body, method for producing the body and use thereof
A method for producing a molded body, said method comprising: providing a film comprising a thermoplastic plastic and having a film thickness D ranging from 1 μm to 1000 μm; irradiating the film with ionizing radiation, to produce irradiated regions in the film; thermally reshaping the film into a molded body and generating at least one hollow structure, wherein a temperature of the thermal reshaping remains below the melting temperature for the thermoplastic plastic; removing the irradiated regions, to create pores having a diameter δ from about 10 nm to about 10 μm in the molded body; and removing the molded body from a mold.
US08506832B2 Wafer dividing apparatus and methods
Example embodiments are directed to a wafer dividing apparatus and method thereof. The wafer dividing apparatus includes a chuck unit having upper and lower chucks, a cutting wire that is provided in a space between the upper and lower chucks to cut a wafer and driven by a first driving unit, and an etchant supplying nozzle supplying etchant to a groove of the wafer, which is formed by the cutting wire.
US08506830B2 Pattern formation method
A pattern is formed by: forming a first imprint mask layer on a processed member; forming a first imprint pattern of the first imprint mask layer using a first template; forming a second imprint mask layer made of a material having a different etching rate from the first imprint mask layer on the first imprint pattern; forming a second imprint pattern of the second imprint mask layer using a second template different from the first template; and etching the processed member using as a mask the second imprint mask layer on which the second imprint pattern is formed and the first imprint mask layer on which the first imprint pattern is formed.
US08506829B2 Semiconductor hollow-core waveguide using photonic crystal gratings
A semiconductor hollow-core waveguide using high-contrast gratings or photonic crystal claddings and a method of manufacturing the same includes providing a layered semiconductor structure; creating an etching mask pattern over the layered semiconductor structure; performing a combined cycled directional etching process on the layered semiconductor structure in one sequence and in one lithography level to create a 3-dimensional waveguide structure; and creating a hollow air core in the layered semiconductor structure by removing to define a shape of the waveguide. The etching process comprises vertically etching a series of deep trenches on the layered semiconductor structure with precise control and varying the width of the trench. Furthermore, the hollow air core is created by removing a portion of the sacrificial material located in the center of the waveguide and under the waveguide.
US08506827B2 Short pitch metal gratings and methods for making the same
Methods for forming a metal grating include providing a first grating including a plurality of grating lines formed from a dielectric material, each grating having a pair of sidewalls, facing sidewalls of adjacent grating lines being separated by corresponding trenches, the grating lines and trenches forming a grating surface; forming a layer of a metal on the grating surface, where the metal layer has a constant thickness and conforms to the grating surface; and removing portions of the metal layer between sidewalls of adjacent grating lines of the first grating to form a metal grating having grating lines formed from the metal, the grating lines of the metal grating corresponding to the portions of the metal layer adjacent the sidewalls of the grating lines of the first grating. The metal grating has a pitch of 200 nm or less, a depth of 50 nm or more, and the grating lines of the metal grating have an aspect ratio of 10-to-1 or more.
US08506826B2 Method of manufacturing a switch system
A method for manufacturing a micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) switch system (600, 700) includes etching each of a plurality of base circuit layers (425) and a plurality of passive component substrate layers (412, 418, 42, 426). The method continues with laser milling of a first dielectric film (406) to create a spacer layer (405). A metal cladding (402, 403) formed on a flexible dielectric film layer 404 is etched so as to form a plurality of switch component features. Further laser milling is performed with respect to the flexible dielectric film layer to form at least one switch structure (448, 450). Thereafter, a stack (400) is assembled which is comprised of the spacer layer disposed between the flexible dielectric film layer and the plurality of base circuit layers. Additional layers can also be included in the stack. When the stack is completed, heat and pressure are applied to join the various layers forming the stack.
US08506821B2 Dewatering system
A system for processing drilling mud, the system including a primary separation tank having an inlet for receiving drilling waste and an outlet in fluid communication with a feed line, and an injection pump in fluid communication with a polymer tank and the feed line. The system also includes a clarifying tank in fluid communication with the feed line and a first collection tank, wherein effluent from the clarifying tank is discharged into the first collection tank, and a centrifuge in fluid communication with the clarifying tank and a second collection tank, wherein effluent from the centrifuge is discharged into the second collection tank.
US08506816B2 Membrane separation of water and fuel from engine oil in an internal combustion engine
Water and fuel contaminating material may be removed from a stream operating engine. A suitable membrane material is supported in a suitable housing. At least a portion of the contaminated oil stream is flowed over one side of the membrane and water and fuel material diffuses through the membrane to its other side where they are gathered and removed from the housing. The water and fuel material may be recovered separately using different membranes or different regions of a membrane. They may be swept from the membrane and housing a flow of air for disposition outside the housing.
US08506804B1 Flash chromatography cartridge
A low pressure liquid chromatographic cartridge has a tubular polymer container that receives a chromatographic packing material. The container has an outlet port located at its downstream end and container threads formed on its upstream end. A polymer cap, with an inlet port on an upstream end, screws onto the container threads. A flange depending from the cap mates with the lip of the container to form a fluid tight seal between the polymer cap and container suitable for use in low pressure liquid chromatography.
US08506799B2 Suspended particle characterization system for a water processing facility
A system for characterizing suspended particles in a water treatment facility is disclosed. The system uses an imaging array to take multiple images of the particles in a sample volume. These images are then processed to determine geometrical properties of individual particles in the sample. These geometric properties can then be used to identify properties of the sample volume such as particle volume concentration, particle number concentration, computed particle diameter, gravitational settling velocity, mass concentration, and computed particle volume.
US08506798B2 Installation for treating a biological liquid
Installation for treating a biological liquid, including a circulation pump (5), a filter element (9), a container for collecting treated liquid, a first circuit section connecting a source of said biological liquid to an inlet orifice of said filter element (9), including a circuit element adapted to cooperate with said circulation pump (5); a second circuit section, connecting an outlet orifice of said filter element (9) to said treated liquid collecting container; characterized in that said treated liquid collecting container, said first circuit section and said second circuit section are disposable and said installation further includes a first cart (1) carrying said pump (5) and a second cart (2) including a housing (14) for said collecting container, separable from the first cart (1) and adapted to be at least partly nested in said first cart (1).
US08506793B2 Cardiomyocytes-containing device and method for manufacturing and using the same
Disclosed is a device for determining the cardiotoxicity of a chemical compound, comprising a substrate (10) carrying a deformable stack (34), said stack being partially detached from the substrate by a cavity (32) allowing an out-of-plane deformation of the stack, said stack comprising a first deformable layer (16), a second deformable layer (20) and a multi-electrode structure (18) sandwiched between the first and second deformable layers, the second deformable layer carrying a pattern of cardiomyocytes (28) adhered thereto; and a liquid container (26) mounted on the substrate for exposing the cardiomyocytes to the chemical compound. A method of manufacturing such a device is also disclosed. The present invention further relates to the use of the device for drug target discovery and/or drug development and a method for developing a disease model for a disease that is caused by or modified by stretching of cells, in particular a cardiac disease model.
US08506790B2 Electrolytic cell for making alkali alcoholates using ceramic ion conducting solid membranes
Disclosed are electrolytic cells for making solutions of metal alcoholates in their corresponding alcohols using an electrolytic process. In one embodiment, sodium methylate in methanol is made from methanol and sodium hydroxide solution. The sodium hydroxide solution is placed in the anolyte compartment and the methanol is placed in the catholyte compartment, and the two compartments are separated by a ceramic membrane that selectively transports sodium under the influence of current. In preferred embodiments, the process is cost-effective and not environmentally harmful.
US08506786B2 Method for recovery of residual actinide elements from chloride molten salt
A method for recovery of residual actinide element from chloride molten salts that are formed after electro-refining and/or electro-winning of a spent nuclear fuel and include actinide elements and rare-earth elements is provided. The method comprises conducting electrolysis using a liquid cadmium cathode (LCC) in the chloride molten salt that is formed after electro-refining and/or electro-winning of a spent nuclear fuel and contains rare-earth elements and actinide elements; electro-depositing the actinide elements contained in the chloride molten salt on the LCC in order to reduce a concentration of the actinide elements; and adding a CdCl2 oxidant to the chloride molten salt containing the LCC-metal alloy in order to oxidize the rare-earth elements co-deposited on the LCC, thereby forming the rare-earth chlorides in the chloride molten salt.
US08506782B2 Electrophoretic deposition of adsorbent media
A method of electrophoretic deposition of adsorbent media onto an electrically conducting substrate. The adsorbent media may include one or more porous coordination polymers and/or one or more secondary adsorbing particles. The adsorbent media may be continuously applied from a liquid composition at a selected thickness and at a controlled rate and as a function of voltage profiles.
US08506780B2 Gas sensor
A gas sensor includes an internal space, diffusion control part, pumping cell, and measuring cell. The diffusion control part communicates with the internal space and has a slit-like shape with a smaller thickness than that of the internal space. The pumping cell pumps out oxygen from the internal space when voltage is applied between a first electrode fowled on a surface of the internal space and a second electrode formed outside the internal space. The measuring cell measures a current flowing between a third and fourth electrodes when a voltage is applied between the third and fourth electrodes. The third electrode is formed in the diffusion control part, and can reduce an oxide gas component in a predetermined gas component to which a predetermined diffusion resistance has been applied by the diffusion control part. The fourth electrode is formed in a part different from the diffusion control part.
US08506779B2 Electrochemical sensors
Described herein are substrates, sensors and systems related to measuring the concentration of an analyte such as hydrogen ion in a sample. Redox active moieties whose reduction and/or oxidation potentials are sensitive to the presence of an analyte are immobilized onto a surface of an electrode. Immobilized redox active moieties whose reduction and/or oxidation potential are insensitive to the analyte can be used for reference. Voltammetric measurements made using such modified surfaces can accurately determine the presence and/or concentrations of analytes in a sample of interest. The electrochemical sensors of the invention are robust and can be made so as not to require calibration or recalibration.
US08506776B2 Biological test chip and a manufacturing method thereof
The present invention discloses a biological test chip and a method for manufacturing the same. The biological test chip comprises a test unit and an auxiliary unit for producing capillary action. The test unit includes a baseboard, at least one pair of electrodes and wires connected to the electrodes that are provided on the baseboard by using printed-circuit-board manufacturing process, and a photoresist layer covering the baseboard. The auxiliary unit includes a double-faced adhesive gel layer and a hydrophilic layer that have at least two thin plates respectively. By utilizing the manufacturing process for a printing circuit board and the photoresist layer, body fluid to be tested can be rapidly drawn in to fill the reaction areas formed in the photoresist layer and thereby can react evenly and rapidly with the reactive enzymes used for the test.
US08506775B2 Devices and methods relating to electrochemical biosensors
A system for testing for analytes in a sample of biological fluid includes a test strip that defines a cavity for receiving the sample. At least two sets of electrodes are adjacent the sample cavity, including one for measuring one property of the sample, and another for measuring one or more other properties of the sample, such as temperature and/or the presence or magnitude of confounding variables. The measurements are combined to yield the desired result. At least one set of working and counter electrodes each have a plurality of elongated “fingers” interdigitated with those of the other electrode in the set. The gaps between fingers can be quite small, so that the two electrode sets together can operate in a small measurement volume of sample. Additional electrodes can be included that measure the presence or sufficiency of the sample, and additional traces on the strip can act as configuration identifiers.
US08506769B2 Biosensor support
The invention relates to a biosensor support comprising a cylinder (1) consisting of a non-electroconductive material and having: a through-hole (2) coaxial to the axis of the cylinder (1); a metal rod (3) arranged in said opening (2), with its upper end (31) level with the top base (11) of the cylinder (1); a layer/coating of noble metal (4) of between 1 and 1000 nanometers, arranged on the top base (11) of the cylinder, and a protector (5) consisting of a non-electroconductive material arranged on the layer/coating of noble metal (4) in the area where the layer (4) joins the metal rod (3), said protector covering a surface having a diameter (Ø2) larger than the diameter of the rod (3). The invention is applicable to the specific detection of substances in aqueous media.
US08506768B2 Low-maintenance coatings, and methods for producing low-maintenance coatings
The invention provides a substrate bearing a low-maintenance coating. In some embodiments, the coating includes a low-maintenance film that includes both titanium oxide and tungsten oxide. The invention also provides methods and equipment for depositing such coatings.
US08506766B2 Method for recovery of acetic acid from an aqueous solution thereof
A method for recovering acetic acid from an aqueous feed stream containing acetic acid and, in particular, a stream generated during terephthalic acid production includes feeding a water-rich feed stream to a liquid-liquid extraction column, which includes a guard bed near the top thereof for conversion of alcohol within the feed stream by reaction with acetic acid to the corresponding ester, and removing residual water from acetic acid in an azeotropic distillation column by feeding water-poor feed streams from the extraction column to the distillation column at a height at which the mixture has a similar water concentration. The liquid-liquid extraction column produces an extract of an extraction solvent and acetic acid which is sent to the azeotropic distillation column to separate residual water and acetic acid.
US08506762B2 Pressurized vapor cycle liquid distillation
Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a novel pressurized vapor cycle for distilling liquids. In some embodiments of the invention, a liquid purification system is revealed, including the elements of an input for receiving untreated liquid, a vaporizer coupled to the input for transforming the liquid to vapor, a head chamber for collecting the vapor, a vapor pump with an internal drive shaft and an eccentric rotor with a rotatable housing for compressing vapor, and a condenser in communication with the vapor pump for transforming the compressed vapor into a distilled product. Other embodiments of the invention are directed toward heat management, and other process enhancements for making the system especially efficient.
US08506755B2 Creped tissue product with enhanced retention capacity
An absorbent composite material may be manufactured by applying a flexible absorbent binder polymer (FAB), also referred to herein as a flexible superabsorbent, during the creping step of conventional tissue manufacturing. As such, the costly process of applying FAB to a substrate by spraying or printing followed by drying may be eliminated. The creping step has the additional advantage of improving the flexibility and softness of the FAB treated fibrous web.
US08506753B2 Capacitive coupling plasma processing apparatus and method for using the same
A plasma processing apparatus includes a process container configured to accommodate a target substrate and to be vacuum-exhausted. A first electrode and a second electrode are disposed opposite each other within the process container. The first electrode includes an outer portion and an inner portion both facing the second electrode such that the outer portion surrounds the inner portion. An RF power supply is configured to apply an RF power to the outer portion of the first electrode. A DC power supply is configured to apply a DC voltage to the inner portion of the first electrode. A process gas supply unit is configured to supply a process gas into the process container, wherein plasma of the process gas is generated between the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08506752B2 Techniques for mounting brackets to glass substrates for automotive applications
Certain example embodiments relate to techniques for bonding automotive brackets for sensors, rear view mirrors, and/or other components to an interior surface of the glass. The adhesive films of certain example embodiments may be film-based adhesives that may be die-cut and pre-applied to the brackets or components. They may have a good initial adhesion or green strength immediately upon contact with the glass. In certain example instances, the films may be applied and successfully bond to the glass at near ambient temperature conditions to a strength level adequate to meet operational specifications for the component in under 72 hours.
US08506751B2 Implementing self-assembly nanometer-sized structures within metal—polymer interface
An adhesion bond between a metallic surface layer and a second surface is formed by treating the layers with a material comprising sulphur-containing molecules. The sulphur-containing molecules are applied as a surface treatment of the surfaces, so that the sulphur-containing molecules act as a coupling agent to bond chemically to both substrates form nanometer-sized structures on the surfaces. The nanometer-sized structures are incorporated into a self-assembly interlayer in between the surfaces, with the interlayer forming a bond to both surfaces.
US08506749B1 Method of improving adhesive coverage to maximize waterproofness while maintaining breathability of adhesively laminated webs, and laminates produced thereby
A method of forming a composite fabric includes bonding an adhesive layer to a web such that the adhesive layer conforms to surfaces of the web without sealing all web pores, and bonding a barrier layer to the adhesive layer, wherein the composite fabric MVT is at least 25% of the barrier layer MVT; and/or the composite fabric air permeability is at least 20% of the barrier layer air permeability. A composite fabric includes a web, a barrier layer and an adhesive layer therebetween, wherein: (a) the adhesive layer is conformingly bonded to structural members of the web without sealing all pores; (b) the adhesive layer is bonded to the barrier layer; (c) the composite fabric hydrostatic resistance is greater than 200 mbar; and (d) the composite fabric moisture transmission rate is greater than 600 g/m2/24 h and greater than 3000 g/m2/24 by ASTM E96, procedures B and BW, respectively.
US08506747B2 Liquid crystal display and manufacturing method of the same
A manufacturing method of a liquid crystal display according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: coating spherical spacers mixed with a first adhesive on a first insulation substrate; coating a second adhesive on the spherical spacers; aligning the second insulation substrate with the first insulation substrate to contact the second adhesive; and hardening the first adhesive and the second adhesive to adhere the spherical spacers to the first insulation substrate and the second insulation substrate.
US08506745B2 Method of sealing reclosable fasteners
A modular reciprocating heat seal jaw assembly is disclosed for sealing reclosable fastener strips to a web of thermoplastic film and for sealing the web of thermoplastic film into a series of reclosable bags. The jaw assembly includes first and second sealing jaws and means for slidably mounting the sealing jaws on a pair of parallel shafts near the lateral ends of the first and second sealing jaws in a horizontal configuration. A method of performing the sealing of the fastener strips and web thermoplastic film into a series of reclosable bags is also disclosed.
US08506744B1 Decorative tile
A method includes providing a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein at least one of the first or second sheet has a portion that is transparent; forming a first groove in a first surface of the first sheet adjacent to an edge of the first sheet; applying an adhesive material to an area of the first surface of the first sheet at least partially along a length of the first groove between the first groove and the adjacent edge of the first sheet; and pressing the second sheet against the first surface of the first sheet to adhere the second sheet to the first sheet. The first groove is arranged so as to substantially prevent the adhesive material from spreading past the first groove when the second sheet is pressed against the first sheet.
US08506738B2 Localized heating via an infrared heat source array of edge seals for a vacuum insulating glass unit, and/or unitized oven with infrared heat source array for accomplishing the same
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to edge sealing techniques for vacuum insulating glass (VIG) units. More particularly, certain example embodiments relate to techniques for providing localized heating to edge seals of units, and/or unitized ovens for accomplishing the same. In certain example embodiments, a unit is pre-heated to one or more intermediate temperatures, localized heating via at least one substantially two-dimensional array of heat sources is provided proximate to the peripheral edges of the unit so as to melt frits placed thereon, and cooled. In certain non-limiting implementations, the pre-heating and/or cooling may be provided in one or more steps. An oven for accomplishing the same may include multiple zones for performing the above-noted steps, each zone optionally including one or more chambers. Accordingly, in certain example embodiments, a temperature gradient proximate to the edges of the unit is created, thereby reducing the chances of breakage and/or at least some de-tempering of the substrates.
US08506731B2 Method for coating a hot-rolled or cold-rolled steel flat product containing 6-30 wt% Mn
A method for coating a hot-rolled or cold-rolled steel flat product, containing 6-30% wt. Mn, with a metallic protective layer by hot-clip coating in a melt bath. The coating, achieved with increased production reliability, is optimised by the steel flat product being subjected to a pickling treatment in which the manganese oxide adhering to the steel flat product is essentially fully removed in the pickling bath before the steel flat product enters the melt bath.
US08506729B2 Austenite-type stainless steel hot-rolling steel material with excellent corrosion resistance, proof-stress, and low-temperature toughness and production method thereof
An austenitic stainless steel hot-rolled steel material can be provided which has sea-water resistance and strength superior to conventional steel. Low-temperature toughness can be maintained, which is preferable in a structural member of speedy craft. The steel material can include an austenitic stainless steel hot-rolled steel material which excels in the properties of corrosion resistance, proof stress, and low-temperature toughness. In such austenitic stainless steel hot-rolling steel material, e.g., PI [=Cr+3.3(Mo+0.5W)+16N] ranges from 35 to 40, δ cal [=2.9 (Cr+0.3Si+Mo+0.5W)−2.6 (Ni+0.3Mn+0.25Cu+35C+20N)−18] ranges from −6 to +2, and a 0.2% proof stress at room temperature is not less than 550 MPa, Charpy impact value measured using a V-notch test piece at −40° C. is not less than 100 J/cm2, and the pitting potential measured in a deaerated aqueous solution of 10% NaCl at 50° C. (Vc′100) is not less than 500 mV (as it relates to saturated Ag/AgCl).
US08506726B2 Endoscope reprocessor
The endoscope reprocessor includes a basin for receiving an endoscope to be reprocessed, a rack which secures thereto a portion of the endoscope and moves vertically within the basin, a drive unit for vertically moving the rack, a positioning member for adjusting a rack stopping position when the endoscope is to be set on the rack and a drive control unit for controlling the drive unit based on computed results from the positioning member.
US08506725B2 Washing appliance and associated method
A washing appliance is provided, having a circulation pump for circulating a washing fluid. A monitoring device is capable of monitoring a condition of the circulated washing fluid. A control device is in communication with the monitoring device and is configured to direct execution of one of a plurality of automatic wash programs by the washing appliance, wherein each automatic wash program includes a plurality of serially-conducted wash segments, each including at least one pre-wash segment and at least one post-wash segment. The control device is further configured to direct the monitoring device to dynamically monitor the washing fluid condition during at least one of the at least one pre-wash segment and the at least one post-wash segment, and to direct an alteration of the washing fluid in response to the monitoring device determining that the washing fluid condition exceeds a threshold. An associated method is also provided.
US08506723B2 Alkaline detergent composition for use on hard surfaces
An alkaline detergent composition for hard surface comprises an alkaline agent (component A), a nonionic surfactant (component B), a chelating agent (component C), water (component D), at least one carboxylic acid compound (component E) selected from the group consisting of compounds represented by general formula (1) and general formula (2), and at least one anionic surfactant (component F) selected from the group consisting of surfactants represented by general formula (3) and salts thereof. Therein, the content ratio [component E (weight %)/component B (weight %)] is 1/1.5-15/1, the content ratio [component F (weight %)/component B (weight %)] is 10/1-1/5, and the pH at 25° C. is 12 or greater.
US08506718B2 Polymer removing apparatus and method
A polymer removing apparatus for use in removing polymer annularly adhered to a peripheral portion of a target substrate includes a processing chamber for accommodating the target substrate having the polymer annularly adhered to the peripheral portion thereof; a mounting table for mounting the target substrate thereon; and a laser irradiation unit for irradiating ring-shaped laser light at once to the whole polymer annularly adhered to the target substrate. The polymer removing apparatus further includes an ozone gas supply unit for supplying an ozone gas to the polymer annularly adhered to the target substrate and a gas exhaust unit for exhausting the ozone gas.
US08506716B2 Method for treating biomass and organic waste with the purpose of generating desired biologically based products
The present invention provides a method for treatment of lignocellulosic organic waste or biomass, by which the carbohydrates are rendered more available for subsequent hydrolysis, e.g. by means of addition of enzymes or direct fermentation to one or more desired products. The invention more specifically relates to a method comprising a combination of the following process steps: thermal hydrolysis, wet oxidation and wet explosion. The method according to the present invention can operate with undivided or only poorly divided substrate having a high dry matter concentration.
US08506711B2 Apparatus for manufacturing flat-panel display
An flat-panel display (FPD) manufacturing apparatus is provided. The apparatus is flexibly configured so that it is capable of easily processing large-size substrates while also simplifying manufacturing, transporting, operating, and repair processes.
US08506710B2 Apparatus for fabricating semiconductor device
An apparatus for fabricating a semiconductor device includes: a chamber having a sidewall; a susceptor in the chamber; a plurality of injection holes in the sidewall, the plurality of injection holes disposed along a horizontal direction; and a plurality of exhaust holes in the sidewall, the plurality of exhaust holes disposed along the horizontal direction and facing the plurality of injection holes with the susceptor therebetween.
US08506709B2 Roll coater having a recirculation loop for treating excess fluid
A roll coater with a recirculation loop is disclosed. Waste coating material form the roll coater is treated in an agitator unit containing, for example, one or more ultrasonic transducers, and optionally a filtration unit and/or temperature control unit to produce reconditioned coating solution, such as a reconditioned sol-gel precursor solution. Also disclosed is preventative maintenance module comprising a cleaning unit that is designed to engage and clean the applicator and/or metering rolls in a roll coater.
US08506708B2 Silica glass crucible for pulling up silicon single crystal, method for manufacturing thereof and method for manufacturing silicon single crystal
A silica glass crucible for pulling up a silicon single crystal including a wall part and a bottom part is provided with a natural silica glass layer which forms at least one part of a an inner surface of the bottom part, and a synthetic silica glass layer which forms at least an inner surface of the wall part, wherein a concentration of Ca included in the natural silica glass layer is 0.5 ppm or less.
US08506704B2 Method of fabricating polycrystalline silicon plates
The invention relates to a method of fabricating at least one polycrystalline silicon plate (68, 70) with one (64, 66) of its two faces presenting predetermined relief, in which method a layer of polycrystalline silicon (60, 62) is deposited on at least one (56, 58) of the two faces of a support (50). The method comprises the steps of embossing said face (52, 54) of the support (50) to impart thereto a shape that is complementary to said relief; depositing said polycrystalline silicon layer (60, 62) on said embossed face (56, 58) of the support (50), the surface (64 or 66) of said polycrystalline silicon layer situated in contact with said embossed face (56 or 58) then taking on the shape of said relief; and eliminating said support in order to obtain said polycrystalline silicon plate (68 or 70). The invention is applicable to fabricating solar cells.
US08506700B2 Dry composition comprising a binder and a silicone oil
A dry composition including at least one binder and at least one silicone oil with the following formula (I): in which: Z1 and Z2, identical or different, independently represent a terminal group selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen atom; a hydroxyl; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C1 to C12 alkyl; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C2 to C12 alkenyl radical; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C1 to C12 heteroalkyl; an optionally substituted C5 to C10 cycloalkyl radical; and an optionally substituted C6 to C18 aryl radical; R1 and R2, identical or different, independently represent a hydrogen atom; a hydroxyl; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C1 to C12 alkyl; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C2 to C12 alkenyl radical; a linear or branched, optionally substituted C1 to C12 heteroalkyl; an optionally substituted C5 to C10 cycloalkyl radical; or an optionally substituted C6 to C18 aryl radical; m and n, identical or different, independently represent a number ranging from 1 to 100.
US08506696B2 Erasable liquid ink
According to one embodiment, a liquid ink includes a leuco dye, a developer, and a solvent. The developer is selected from wherein X1 is selected from H and CH3, X2 is selected from H and OH, X5 is selected from C(CH3)2 and CO, and X4 is selected from phenyl group and alkyl group.
US08506695B2 Coating compositions
Coating compositions and industrial packages including the coating compositions are disclosed.
US08506692B2 Valves capable of controlling valve-opening area
A valve includes a valve housing defining therein a fluid passage composed of a first passage and a second passage, a first valve member configured to open and close the fluid passage, a first biasing member pressing the first valve member in a first valve-closing direction along a flow direction from the first passage to the second passage, a second valve member configured to open and close the fluid passage, a second biasing member pressing the second valve member in a second valve-closing direction along the flow direction from the first passage to the second passage, an electromagnetic driving member having an pressing member opening the first valve member and the second valve member in stages, a third valve member configured to open and close the fluid passage, and a third biasing member pressing the third valve member in a third valve-closing direction along a flow direction from the second passage to the first passage. The third valve member is configured to open the fluid passage when internal pressure of the first passage is higher than internal pressure of the second passage by a predetermined value.
US08506689B2 Rectangular parallelepiped fluid storage and dispensing vessel
A fluid storage and dispensing apparatus including a fluid storage and dispensing vessel having a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and an integrated gas cabinet assembly including such fluid storage and dispensing apparatus and/or a point-of-use ventilation gas scrubber in the vented gas cabinet. By the use of physical adsorbent and chemical sorbent media, the gas cabinet can be enhanced in safety of operation, e.g., where the process gas supplied from the gas cabinet is of a toxic or otherwise hazardous character.
US08506687B2 Electrostatic precipitator and self cleaning collection belt therefor
An electrostatic precipitator for removing a particulate material includes a housing having an internally formed air path communicating between an inlet for drawing polluted air containing particulate material and an air outlet for emitting clean air purified by removing the particulate material, an air stream generator that generates an air stream, a discharging mechanism that charges the particulate material, and a collection device provided in the air stream to collect the particulate material which has been charged by the discharging mechanism. The collection device includes a collection belt including a flat wire belt defining a three-dimensional collection surface. The precipitator further includes a brush and vacuum assembly for removing the particulate material and reducing the risk of reentrainment in the air stream.
US08506685B2 High pressure liquid degassing membrane contactors and methods of manufacturing and use
In accordance with at least selected embodiments of the present invention, an improved liquid degassing membrane contactor or module includes a high pressure housing and at least one degassing cartridge therein. It may be preferred that the high pressure housing is a standard, ASME certified, reverse osmosis (RO) or water purification pressure housing or vessel (made of, for example, polypropylene, polycarbonate, stainless steel, corrosion resistant filament wound fiberglass reinforced epoxy tubing, with pressure ratings of, for example, 150, 250, 300, 400, or 600 psi, and with, for example 4 or 6 ports, and an end cap at each end) and that the degassing cartridge is a self-contained, hollow-fiber membrane cartridge adapted to fit in the RO high pressure housing.
US08506684B2 Gas release devices for extracorporeal fluid circuits and related methods
In one aspect, a gas release device for removing gas from a bodily liquid in extracorporeal circuitry is described. The device includes an elongate vertical portion and a flared portion that extends outwardly from the elongate vertical portion. The device also includes an inlet port for delivering a bodily liquid into the device, and an outlet port for evacuating the bodily liquid from the device. The inlet port is positioned below the elongate vertical portion and the outlet port is positioned below the flared portion such that bodily liquid traveling from the inlet toward the outlet is forced around the flared portion to cause air bubbles in the bodily liquid to be re-circulated back toward the inlet port.
US08506680B2 Reclamation of gaseous substances from boiler flue gas for oil recovery
Systems and techniques for the reclamation from boiler flue gas of all or substantially all gaseous substances for well injection oil recovery. A system can include one or more of a boiler for generating high pressure steam, a high pressure water pump, a tower scrubber, an induced draft fan, an absorber, a separating tank, a heat exchanger, a regenerator, a reboiler, a steam boiler, a water segregator, a carbon dioxide compressor, a purifier, a nitrogen compressor, drying beds, adsorption beds, a carbon dioxide pressurizer, a nitrogen pressurizer and a mixing tank of which: the boiler for generating high pressure steam, the tower scrubber, the absorber, the regenerator and the adsorption beds connect with each other in turn. In addition, the mixing tank connects by pipelines with a gas injection tube of an oil well. Mixed gases of carbon dioxide and nitrogen can be obtained for injection into the oil well, thus gaining favorable results of crude oil output increase as well as environment protection.
US08506679B2 Water recovery using thermally linked sorbent beds
A water recovery system includes a sorbing bed, a desorbing bed, a heat pump and a controller. The sorbing bed receives a first fluid stream and absorbs and/or adsorbs water from the first fluid stream. The desorbing bed is aligned with and thermally connected to the sorbing bed, and receives a second fluid stream and desorbs water to the second fluid stream. The heat pump is positioned between the sorbing bed and the desorbing bed and transfers heat from the sorbing bed to the desorbing bed. The controller distributes power to the heat pump to maintain an area near the outlet of the desorbing bed at a temperature greater than an area of the sorbing bed aligned with the area near the outlet of the desorbing bed. A method for recovering water from a fluid stream includes directing fluid streams through the described water recovery system.
US08506675B2 Composite desiccant and air-to-water system and method
A composite desiccant material is formed by a porous, absorbent substrate of PVA foam or non-woven fibrous sheet is soaked in a solution of a hygroscopic desiccant such as CaCl2. The desiccant is held in pores or fibrous entraining areas sized ranging from 50 microns to 1000 microns. Thin sheets are arranged in a stack in a multi-chamber system, while in an absorption state, uses this stack in a main chamber to absorb H20 from atmospheric gas flowing through that chamber. In a regeneration state atmospheric flow is stopped and low-grade energy releases the H20 from the desiccant into that chamber. Fans circulate moist air through the main chamber and into an adjacent chamber for H20 transfer through or past a partially permeable barrier into a cooling/condensing area. Both H20 and dry gas may be produced.
US08506673B2 Silica removal from pregnant leach solutions
The present invention relates generally to a process for removing dissolved or colloidal silica from a pregnant leach solution (“PLS”). More particularly, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a, process which mixes PLS with an acid source, preferably lean electrolyte, to induce formation of colloidal silica that can then be collected and removed. Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one silica seeding agent is added to induce formation of colloidal silica, at least one flocculant is added to induce aggregation of the colloidal silica, and a solid-liquid separation process is utilized to remove advantageous amounts or substantially all of the colloidal silica, thereby providing relief from supersaturation of dissolved silica in the metal recovery processes.
US08506671B2 Coated fertilizer
Coated fertilizer wherein the fertilizer and animal feed comprises particles coated with a biomass composition comprising 5-35 wt. % solid biomass particles with a D50 between 0 and 250 μm and a D90 of less than 400 μm and 95-65 wt. % oil, a biomass composition wherein the biomass composition comprises solid biomass particles with a D50 between 0 and 250 μm and a D30 of less than 400 μm and a process for the production of a biomass composition wherein a biomass composition comprising solid particles having a D50 between 100 and 1000 μm is filtrated and the residue is grinded until the solid particles have a D50 between 0 and 250 μm and a D90 of less than 400 μm.
US08506670B2 Micronutrient fertilizers and methods of making and using the same
A water insoluble micronutrient fertilizer, methods of producing, and methods of using the same are provided. The fertilizer may comprise at least one first micronutrient selected from the group consisting of chromium, cobalt, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc; a polyphosphate; and optionally at least one second micronutrient selected from the group consisting of boron, chlorine, iodine, molybdenum or selenium. The fertilizer compounds are preferably water insoluble, dilute acid soluble, and free-flowing powders.
US08506666B2 Filter assembly with improved gasket
A filter gasket seals at least one mitered corner of a filter frame having a substantially planar first surface and an adjacent side surface. The gasket includes at least first and second elongated gasket segments formed from compressible material. Each segment has a substantially planar surface adapted to contact the substantially planar first surface of the filter frame. The first and second gasket segments also each include an end which, when brought into joined engagement with the end of the other gasket segment, forms an interlocking miter joint to seal the at least one mitered corner of the filter frame.
US08506663B2 Filter element and soot filter having improved thermal shock resistance
A filter element and a soot filter in which the temperature distribution over the cross-section of the filter element can be kept constant in first approximation.
US08506650B2 Emulsion dyeing composition containing at least one polyamine, at least one nonionic surfactant and at least one phosphate ester, and method of using same
The present invention is drawn to a composition and method for dyeing keratinous substrates containing: (a) at least one polyamine compound having at least three amino groups; (b) at least one nonionic surfactant; (c) at least one phosphate ester chosen from alkoxylated alkyl phosphate esters and alkyl phosphate esters; (d) at least one dye chosen from oxidation dye precursors and direct dyes. The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain at least one thickening agent, at least one alkaline agent, at least one fatty substance, at least one salt, and at least one oxidizing agent.
US08506646B2 Multi-purpose medical implant devices
Described are medical devices for supporting or inducing bone growth including an implant body defining one or more separation-assist lines that facilitate separation of the body into two or more substantially pre-defined pieces. The implant body can be used and implanted as a whole or may be separated into multiple pieces, some or all of which can be used at one or multiple implant sites in a patient. Separation-assist lines in implant bodies can serve a dual role in imparting increased and controlled flexibility to the overall body when used as a whole at an implant site. Also described are methods of making and using, and kits including, such medical devices.
US08506639B2 Sliding patellar prosthesis
An improved sliding patellar replacement component is provided. Various combinations of translational and/or rotational degrees of freedom are provided by boss and channel configurations between the base subcomponent of the replacement component and the articulating subcomponent of the patellar replacement component. In one embodiment, spin about one axis is restricted by a spin stop that may be movable to allow for ease of assembly. Alternatively, the boss and channel are configured to function as a spin stop. Assembly of the patellar replacement component in one embodiment is simplified by the provision of a boss assembly region.
US08506637B2 Mobile prosthesis for interpositional location between bone joint articular surfaces and method of use
A biocompatible prosthetic device comprising a thin low friction spacer for location to overlie a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces. The prosthesis is preferably a thin spacer with at least one low friction surface, the spacer being adapted for location about a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces preferably about a margin of articular cartilage of a bone member's condyle, preferably without any modification of the articular surface of the condyle. One preferred use of a prosthesis is in a human temporomandibular joint as a thin cap-like member fitted closely over the mandibular condyle to be disposed intermediate of the mandibular condyle and the mandibular fossa of the temporomandibular joint.
US08506632B2 Intervertebral implant intended to allow immobilization of one vertebra in relation to another
An implant that allows immobilization of one vertebra in relation to another, having two lateral walls essentially parallel one with respect to the other and having a length, and at least one transverse wall connecting these lateral walls one to the other, at least one of these lateral walls having, on its side facing the side opposite the other lateral wall, slide prevention reliefs. The invention, the implant has, in a direction perpendicular to the length of the lateral walls, a dimension such that its two lateral walls are capable of coming into the immediate vicinity of the unci of the underlying vertebrae, the slide prevention reliefs of each of lateral wall thus being able to bear against the internal surface of the uncus of the underlying vertebra adjacent this lateral wall.
US08506627B2 Soft filled prosthesis shell with discrete fixation surfaces
A soft prosthetic implant shell, such as a silicone breast implant shell, that has discrete fixation surfaces thereon for tissue adhesion. The fixation surfaces may be provided on the posterior face of the shell, as well as either on the periphery or at discrete areas on the anterior face. Band-shaped fixation surfaces may be provided on the anterior face of the shell to generally match the angle of pectoralis major or pectoralis minor muscle groups. The fixation surfaces may be roughened areas of the shell, or may be separate elements adhered to the shell.
US08506626B2 Transcorneal vision assistance device
The invention provides a transcorneal vision assistance device implantable in the eye of a patient. A preferred embodiment transcorneal microtelescope vision assistance device is implantable in the eye of a patient and includes a keratoprosthesis configured to replace a portion of the cornea of a patient and to secure the keratoprosthesis to a remaining front portion of the cornea. A microtelescope is carried by the keratoprosthesis for transcorneal mounting of the microtelescope.
US08506625B2 Contoured sewing ring for a prosthetic mitral heart valve
A prosthetic mitral heart valve including a contoured sewing ring that better matches the mitral valve annulus. The sewing ring includes an inflow end and an outflow end, the outflow and having at least one raised portion. There may be two raised portions located approximately 120° apart from each other and designed to register with two anterior trigones of the mitral valve annulus. The sewing ring may be formed by a suture-permeable annular member surrounded by a fabric covering, the annular member desirably being molded of silicone. The raised portion(s) may gently curve upward to a height of about 2 mm above the adjacent portions of the outflow end of the sewing ring. The sewing ring may also be constructed so as to be more flexible around a posterior aspect than around an anterior aspect to accommodate calcified tissue more commonly found around the posterior annulus. The contoured sewing ring can be combined with various types of heart valve including bioprosthetic and mechanical valves. A bioprosthetic heart valve of the present invention may include a support stent having three outflow commissures alternating with three inflow cusps, with two of the commissures being located at the same place as two raised portions of the sewing ring. A method of implant includes tilting the prosthetic heart valve in the mitral annulus so that a posterior commissure angles away from the ventricular wall and reduces the chance of contact therebetween.
US08506620B2 Prosthetic cardiac and venous valves
A prosthetic heart or venous valve, the valve including a central tissue structure with multiple tissue lobes extending from a common central area, wherein each of the lobes includes a longitudinal slot. The valve further includes a plurality of leaflets, each extending from the central tissue structure and positioned between two adjacent lobes, wherein each of the leaflets has a free end spaced from the central tissue structure, and also has a compressible and expandable stent frame with a plurality of extending arms, wherein each of the extending arms of the stent frame is positioned at least partially within one of the longitudinal slots of the central tissue structure.
US08506617B1 Micronized peptide coated stent
A coating for an implantable device such as a stent is provided including micronized peptides. A method of making the same is also provided.
US08506616B2 Anchor wire arrangement
An endoluminal stent graft deployment system incorporating an anchor wire system for temporary anchoring of a stent graft on a delivery device. The anchor wire system has an anchor wire extending from the distal end of the device and releasably retained to the portion of the stent graft by a releasable retention system. The releasable retention system includes a bead on the proximal end of the anchor wire and an anchor release wire which has fastening arrangement to retain the release wire distally of the bead. The anchor release wire extends to a distal end of the deployment system so that the anchor wire release wire can be withdrawn thereby releasing the anchor wire.
US08506615B2 Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery system
Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery systems and articles are provided.
US08506610B2 Receiving part for receiving a rod for coupling the rod to a bone anchoring element and a bone anchoring device with such a receiving part
A receiving part for receiving a rod for coupling the rod to a bone anchoring element, the receiving part including: a receiving part body including a rod receiving portion with a channel for receiving a rod, and a head receiving portion for accommodating a head of a bone anchoring element, the head receiving portion having an open end and being flexible for inserting and clamping of the head; a locking ring around the head receiving portion to exert a first force onto the head receiving portion to lock the head therein; and a pre-locking ring separate from the locking ring and around the head receiving portion to exert a second force less than the first force onto the head receiving portion to clamp the head in a temporary pre-locking position.
US08506605B2 Method and apparatus for securing an object to bone and/or for stabilizing bone
A surgical system for stabilizing a first bone segment to a second bone segment, the system comprising a plate having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to be secured to the first bone segment and the second end is configured to be secured to the second bone segment, and further wherein the plate has a structural integrity sufficient to stabilize the first bone segment to the second bone segment. Further embodiments comprise a supplemental plate for stabilizing a third bone segment to the second bone segment.
US08506604B2 Method for stabilizing a spinal segment
A surgical implant is provided that includes first and second abutment surfaces between which are positioned a force imparting mechanism. A sheath is positioned between the first and second abutment surfaces, and surrounds the force imparting mechanism. The sheath is fabricated from a material that accommodates relative movement of the abutment members, while exhibiting substantially inert behavior relative to surrounding anatomical structures. The sheath is generally fabricated from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, a copolymer of polycarbonate and a urethane, or a blend of a polycarbonate and a urethane. The force imparting member may include one or more springs, e.g., a pair of nested springs. The surgical implant may be a dynamic spine stabilizing member that is advantageously incorporated into a spine stabilization system to offer clinically efficacious results.
US08506603B2 Surgical rod scorer and method of use of the same
A method for cutting surgical rod in situ is provided. The method includes positioning an operable end of a surgical rod scorer around surgical rod that has been previously affixed to a spinal segment via at least two pedicle screws. A portion of the surgical rod is scored with the surgical rod scorer. The scored surgical rod is grasped with a surgical rod bender. And, the scored surgical rod is bent such that the surgical rod separates along the scored portion of the surgical rod.
US08506602B2 Non-fusion spinal correction systems and methods
Methods and devices that utilize segmental fixation between several adjacent vertebrae, thus allowing each vertebrae to be adjusted independently, are provided. In general, the device includes a spinal anchoring element that is adapted to seat at least one spinal fixation element, and a closure mechanism that is adapted to mate to the spinal anchoring element to lock the at least one spinal fixation element in a fixed position relative to the spinal anchoring element.
US08506595B2 Anchoring and fixing implant and surgical assembly for its implantation
The anchoring and fixing implant is constituted by a continuous wire with rectilinear portions and curved portions. It comprises: a) a central curved portion forming a winding of substantially 1.5n turns, n being, for example, equal to 1, b) on either side and in extension of said central portion, a set of two rectilinear portions, specifically an intermediate portion and an end portion, connected to one another by a bent portion at an angle of the order of 30° to 90° . Also, the rectilinear end portions are oriented divergently so as to make an angle of the order of 60° to 180° between them. The surgical assembly comprises an implant as above, a fixing thread intended to be threaded in the central curved portion of the implant and an ancillary device.
US08506594B2 Gliding stitch for closing wounds under tension
A gliding stitch technique provides efficient and effective means to close a wound under tension. The gliding stitch is especially useful in treating wounds found within thick skin such as a scalp or back wound. The disclosed suture method may be used upon humans and other mammals.
US08506593B2 Implantable biodegradable wound closure device and method
A method for maintaining the alignment of the edges of a wound in the fascia, using a wound closure device, which is a biodegradable compressible structure capable of maintaining the alignment of the edges of the wound during the healing process, an insertion tool for guiding the device into the wound, and a compression tool for compressing the device against the fascia and associated layers. After connecting the insertion tool to the wound closure device, the insertion tool is used to guide the wound closure device through the wound and hold the device in place, The compression tool compresses the wound closure device while the insertion tool holds the device in place. Finally, remove the insertion and compression tools, allowing the wound closure device to remain in place long enough for the wound to heal before the wound closure device degrades.
US08506591B2 Tissue fasteners and related insertion devices, mechanisms, and methods
A tissue fastener includes a bridge section and two cannulated leg sections. The tissue fastener is a single piece of material, and the material can be a bioabsorbable material. Each of the two leg sections can include at least one barb for resisting dislodgement from tissue after the fastener is inserted into tissue. The bridge can be flexible, and the leg sections can receive needles to allow insertion of the fastener into tissue from above a surface of the tissue. Various insertion devices and mechanisms are possible to deploy the fastener into a wound in a patient's skin from above the surface of and generally perpendicular to the skin.
US08506587B2 Puncture needle cartridge
A puncture needle cartridge includes a puncture needle holder configured to be cylindrical, placed on an outer circumferential surface of a lancet body, and provided with an opening through which a puncture needle is allowed to protrude, and a protective cap adapted to cover and protect the opening and configured to be separable from the puncture needle holder. The protective cap includes a base adapted to cover the opening when the protective cap is joined and a pair of raised walls which protrude from the base toward the puncture needle holder and whose tip portions are placed facing each other. Tip portions of the raised walls pinch the puncture needle holder by spreading against elastic deformation when the protective cap is joined to the puncture needle holder, and when the protective cap is separated from the puncture needle holder, a space between the tip portions becomes smaller than outside diameter of the puncture needle holder due to elastic deformation.
US08506583B2 Method for open surgical placement
A method for open surgical repair of a damaged portion of an artery or vein. A tubular medical assembly may include one or more shaped members, such as microbarbs, configured to anchor into the tunica intima and the tunica media of the vessel wall, and not to the tunic adventitia and vasa vasorum. The medical assembly is delivered to the damaged vessel portion via a delivery device through an open air pathway, and forms a conduit between transected ends of the damaged vessel.
US08506576B2 Gripping tool
An insert (100) for a patient fluid discharge tube (A) facilitates removal of the discharge tube from the patient, wherein the insert provides a smooth outer surface (12a) and also an arrangement (20) for aiding in attaching a removal tool to the insert such that the end of the discharge tube may be easily grasped and pulled from the patient.
US08506575B2 Devices and methods for storing, loading, and delivering an intraocular lens
A cartridge for delivering an intraocular lens into the eye of a subject that comprises a body disposed along a longitudinal axis having a distal end and a proximal end, and a tapered lumen disposed along the longitudinal axis having an aperture at the distal end of the body. The aperture and at least a portion of the tapered lumen each consist of an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portions of the aperture and lumen each have a first width and a cross-section that is generally arcuate. The lower portions of the aperture and lumen each have a cross-section that is generally horizontally disposed and have a second width that is greater than the first width of the aperture and lumen. The cartridge may be loaded with an intraocular lens using a packaging system. The intraocular lens may be placed into the eye of a subject using a corresponding inserter having a pushrod with a saddle disposed at the tip thereof. The intraocular lens is preferably draped over the saddle during insertion.
US08506572B2 Multi-use surgical cement dispenser apparatus and kit for same
The present invention is directed to a system and method for percutaneous delivery of bone cement during a surgical procedure. The system of the present invention has a plunger assembly 100, comprising: a shaft having a first end, a middle section, and a second end, wherein the middle section is threaded; and a handle attached to the first end of the shaft. The system further comprises a dispenser hub assembly 200 around the shaft having a collar and a hand-grip attached to the collar, and a threaded portion formed on an interior surface of the collar. The system may further comprise a hollow tube 300 for containing the bone cement during the surgical procedure having a first end and a second end, the first end of the hollow tube adapted to be removably engaged with the threaded portion of the dispenser hub assembly. The shaft is axially displaceable through the hollow tube for controlled displacement of the bone cement through the second end of the hollow tube. The system of the present invention may be provided as a kit, which may further comprise: at least one tubing assembly, at least one cannula, and at least one stylet. The stylet may have a tip geometry selected from the group consisting of: a sharp pyramid tip, an angled tip, a blunt tip, and a corkscrew tip.
US08506571B2 Knee balancing for revision procedures
Methods, systems and devices are provided for facilitating a surgical procedure on a knee, particularly, a revision total knee replacement procedure. Prior femoral and tibial prostheses are removed. A cut end of a distal femur is engaged with a femoral adjustment member, which will typically center itself about an intramedullary rod placed into the femur. The lateral and medial forces exerted by lateral and medial sides of the femoral adjustment member and the cut tibial plateau against each other are measured. The femoral adjustment member is adjusted to apply and/or adjust tension to the lateral collateral ligament and/or the medial collateral ligament based on the measured forces, for example, such that the measured lateral force and the measured medial force are matched. Based on the position of the adjusted femoral member, guided clean-up cuts for placement of a new femoral prostheses are made on the cut end of the distal femur.
US08506569B2 Reciprocating rasps for use in an orthopaedic surgical procedure
Reciprocating rasps for the surgical preparation of the bone prior to the implantation of a glenoid or acetabular component with complex geometry are disclosed. Surgical methods for the use of such reciprocating rasps are also disclosed. A reciprocating rasp for use in the surgical preparation of an acetabulum includes a shaft having a first end configured to be secured in a chuck of a reciprocating tool, and a cutting head secured to a second end of the shaft. The cutting head includes a cutting surface having a plurality of cutting teeth arranged in a geometry that corresponds with a geometry of the acetabular component, and an alignment guide that is devoid of cutting teeth and configured to cooperate with a complementary alignment guide of an acetabular trial instrument when the cutting head is secured to the second end of the shaft.
US08506568B2 Apparatus and method to access bone marrow
Penetrator assemblies that include an outer penetrator and a removable inner trocar. In some of the penetrator assemblies, the removable inner trocar has a handle including a surface with a series of discs formed along a longitudinal axis, and the outer penetrator has a flange operable to engage an insertion site proximate the bone marrow. Some of the penetrator assemblies include a connector having a recess extending toward the cutting tip and through which a longitudinal axis of the outer penetrator extends, the recess configured to receive a portion of a shaft to enable rotation of the penetrator assembly by a powered apparatus or power drill.
US08506567B2 Occipital plate fixation system
There are provided orthopedic fixation systems for attachment of a rod to bone. In an embodiment, plate having top and bottom surfaces includes at least one pocket formed through the surfaces to engage an anchor to bone. At least one arm extends from the longitudinal section of the plate. A housing portion has a base configured for slideable engagement with a course defined in the arm to allow selective positioning of the housing portion. The housing defines a passageway for slideable engagement with a rod to allow selective positioning of the rod. A ring has an inner surface for engagement with the housing portion and a lower surface for engagement with the plate. Locking apparatus is configured for engagement with the arm, housing, and rod to allow selective fixation of (1) the housing along the arm and (2) the rod and the housing with respect to one another.
US08506566B2 Adjustable length strut apparatus for orthopaedic applications
An adjustable-length orthopaedic strut apparatus having minimal x-ray absorption, the capability to produce small length adjustments with minimal axial backlash, and a body devoid of exposed threads, the apparatus having an outer telescoping strut element, an inner telescoping strut element, a threaded drive element rotationally mounted inside the outer telescoping strut element and engaging threads inside the inner telescoping strut element, and an input gear-train arranged to produce fine adjustment of the strut length by generating rotation of the threaded drive element that can be smaller than the input gear rotation. A preferred embodiment also includes compliant preload structures for reducing axial backlash between all moving elements, and one or more locking pins which can be selectively disengaged to adjust the compressive stiffness of the adjustable length strut.
US08506564B2 Surgical instrument comprising an electrode
A surgical instrument can comprise two positive electrodes positioned along a first line, and two negative electrodes positioned along a second line, wherein the first line can be perpendicular to the second line. The positive electrodes can be positioned further away from a central axis than the negative electrodes in order to expand the voltage field created by the electrodes. In various embodiments, a surgical instrument can comprise a first array of electrodes positioned along a first line and a second array of electrodes positioned along a second line. In at least one embodiment, the first array of electrodes can comprise both positive and negative electrodes, and, in addition, the second array of electrodes can comprise both positive and negative electrodes.
US08506562B2 Deflectable stylet
A deflectable stylet for a catheter includes an elongate deflectable member with a bend-enhancing region defined at a distal part of the deflectable member. An actuator has a distal end. 1 fast with a distal end of the deflectable member, relative displacement between the actuator and the deflectable member causing deflection of the distal part of the deflectable member at the bend-enhancing region. A control member is displaceably arranged relative to the deflectable member, the control member interacting with the bend-enhancing region of the deflectable member for controlling the extent of deflection of the distal part of the deflectable member.
US08506558B2 System and method for performing an ocular irradiation procedure
A method and system for performing an ocular irradiation procedure on a patient's eye is disclosed. The system includes a head support for supporting the patient's head, an eye-contact device attachable to the front portion of the patient's eye, to stabilize the position of the eye; and a position detector for determining the position of the contact device in the external coordinate system. A source of a collimated electromagnetic radiation beam in the system is controlled by a beam-positioning assembly for positioning the beam source such that the beam, when activated, is aimed along a selected path at a selected coordinate in the external coordinate system corresponding to a selected target region in the patient's eye.
US08506557B2 Powered surgical instrument
A surgical instrument including a housing, an endoscopic portion, a shaft portion and an end effector is disclosed. The endoscopic portion extends distally from the housing and defines a longitudinal axis. The shaft portion is selectively connectable to a distal end of the endoscopic portion. The end effector is selectively connectable to a distal end of the shaft portion.
US08506555B2 Robotic surgical system for performing minimally invasive medical procedures
A robotic surgical system for performing minimally invasive medical procedures includes a robot manipulator for robotically assisted handling of a laparoscopic instrument having a manipulator arm, a manipulator wrist supported by the arm and an effector unit supported by the wrist, wherein the manipulator arm provides three degrees-of-freedom by means of a first joint, a second joint and a third joint, each having an associated actuator, for robotically positioning the wrist, the wrist providing two degrees-of-freedom by means of a fourth joint and a fifth revolute joint having an associated actuator, for robotically setting the yaw angle and the pitch angle of the effector unit respectively; the effector unit includes a laparoscopic instrument actuator and provides one degree-of-freedom by means of a revolute sixth joint having an associated actuator for robotically setting the roll angle of the LIA which includes a seat, with an associated coupling mechanism for mounting an instrument stem adaptor to the effector unit, and an actuation mechanism cooperating with the instrument stem adaptor for actuating a laparoscopic instrument connected to the adaptor. The effector unit is configured such that the rotation axis of the revolute sixth joint coincides with the longitudinal axis of a laparoscopic instrument mounted to the effector unit and the effector unit includes a sensor assembly having a 6 degree-of-freedom (DOF) force/torque sensor and a 6 DOF accelerometer. The sensor assembly connects the LIA to the sixth revolute joint.
US08506546B2 Diaper with umbilical feature
A diaper having a front portion with at least one line of weakness adapted to be torn and at least one umbilical cover defined in part by the at least one line of weakness. The at least one umbilical cover is moveable from a starting position to an anchored position upon tearing the at least one line of weakness. The diaper has at least one umbilical cover anchor adapted to maintain the at least one umbilical cover in the anchored position.
US08506544B2 Disposable absorbent pant with efficient design and convenient single-section side stretch panels
A disposable absorbent pant having single-section side stretch panels is disclosed. The pant may have features including a seam with an overlapping configuration, and a seam with a sandwiched configuration. A seam of overlapping configuration may be formed by mechanical bonds that provide for tensile strength in a lateral direction, while providing tearability for convenient removal, and may include additional features that include indicia of a location of tearability, a tear-inducing notch, and structure to grasp for tearing. A seam of sandwiched configuration may be configured to provide a finished outward appearance and configured to provide extended lateral width of side stretch panels, providing for increased stretch, without extending overall hoop circumference of the pant, at risk of an undesirably loose fit. The pant may include other features that reduce usage of materials, including complementary cut side panels.
US08506542B2 Two-piece ostomy device with guiding aid for coupling
The invention relates to a two-piece ostomy device comprising a base plate for adhering to the skin surrounding a stoma and a releasable collecting bag for collecting output from said stoma. The base plate is releasably connectable to the collecting bag via a first annular flange arranged on the base plate and a second annular flange arranged on the collecting bag. An adhesive is at least partly disposed on at least one of the flanges. The ostomy device further comprises a first through-going hole extending through the first annular flange along a first axis and a second through-going hole extending through the second annular flange along a second axis, wherein the ostomy device further comprises a guiding aid for arranging the first annular flange and the second annular flange in a guiding configuration. In the guiding configuration the movement of the first and the second flange is limited relative to each other in one plane being defined by the first and the second axis and in rotation around at least one of the first or the second axis. The limited movement of the base plate and the collecting bag provides a two-piece system which is easier to apply correctly and thus reduces the risk of leakage.
US08506540B2 Method and apparatus for transforming a delivery container into a waste disposal system
This application teaches practical and cost effective methods and apparatus to enhance supply chain efficiency by transforming fluid enclosing supply delivery containers in to collection and disposal containers, and in particular, providing inter alia, a canister system having a lid which would couple to either a thread able supply container or a spike able supply container. This enables the user to select from a plurality of supply containers for the collection and removal of waste such as a threaded pour bottle type of supply container, or a spike able type of intravenous solution supply container.
US08506537B2 Sealing device
Sealing device for sealing externally debouching, natural or artificial body canals of animals or human beings, the device enabling liquid tight sealing against the inner wall of the bowel system of the animal or human being, the device further being made from a resilient material. The device is soft and resilient and may thus not trigger the analreflex, but is still able to provide a fluid-tight seal.
US08506536B2 Medical devices and methods for assisting in sub-scab access
Device and methods for separating a scab from a vascular access site are disclosed. The devices include providing a scab separation device having a point for initial separation of a portion of a scab from a patient's flesh, and a series of inclined surfaces leading from the point to lift and separate the scab from the access site. The scab separation device is provided with a cover so that the device is maintained as sterile. In a preferred embodiment, the scab separation device is provided as a set or assembly with a needle or needle set and, in a more preferred embodiment, the scab separation device cover is also used as a cover for a needle to maintain sterility both of an operative end of the separation device and of the needle.
US08506534B2 Flush entrance hemostasis valve with unobstructed passageway
A method of placing a catheter into a patient while preventing disadvantageous escape of fluid from the patient comprises providing a catheter secured to a valve hosing. The catheter has a proximal end, a distal end and an interior lumen. The valve housing has a first port, a second port, and a fluid path running between the first and second ports. The catheter and the valve housing have a hollow needle extending therethrough. The method further comprises piercing the patient's skin, thereby inserting the catheter into the patient. The method further comprises holding the catheter and valve housing in place while removing the hollow needle through the catheter and valve housing. The hollow needle passes through the first and second ports of the valve housing.
US08506531B2 Medical line anchoring system
An anchoring system includes a simply-structured device which permits a portion of a catheter tube or similar medical article to be easily anchored to a patient, desirably without the use of tape or needles and suturing. A unitary retainer desirably includes a base connected to a cover by way of a flexible hinge. The retainer is attached to a flexible anchor pad including an adhesive bottom surface, which can be attached to the patient's skin. A catheter is secured to a fitting, which in turn mounts to the retainer. Mounting the fitting to the retainer can be accomplished by inserting posts of the retainer through holes of the fitting, or by mounting the fitting within a channel defined by mounting structures integral to the retainer. The cover is then positioned over the base, by bending the flexible hinge, and latched to the base. Several embodiments of the latching mechanism are disclosed. In one form, the latching mechanism includes one or more posts on the base which can be releasably locked into corresponding slotted holes in the cover.
US08506530B2 Microneedles to be placed in the skin for the transdermal application of pharmaceuticals
An array for placement on the skin of a human or animal patient for the purpose of the transdermal application of pharmaceuticals, toxins or active agents, having microneedles that are situated on a carrier substrate, the microneedles having a preset breaking point in the area of the transition to the carrier substrate.
US08506529B1 Method and structure of monolithetically integrated microneedle biochip
The present invention provides a method and device using CMOS and MEMS fabrication techniques for making an integrated microneedle device with integrated circuits. Merely by way of example, the technology can be applied to bio and chemical sensing, and other bioMEMS applications. In some embodiments, the integrated circuits are completed using standard IC processes. For example, an array of microneedles are fabricated on top of the IC substrate followed by formation of micro fluidic channels in the substrate. On-chip integrated circuits enable real-time sensing and intelligent drug delivery.
US08506528B2 Locking clip with trigger bushing
A safety shield incorporating a locking clip to prevent inadvertent sticks or punctures by a needle is provided. The needle can be a needle cannula or other piercing member, disposed in a sliding orientation in the safety shield, such that the needle slides within the locking clip between an aperture at a proximal end of the locking clip and a trigger hole at a distal end of the clip. Upon withdrawal of the needle after use, a binding orientation is triggered when the needle tip is withdrawn from the trigger hole. As further protection to the bi-directional lock afforded by the binding orientation, the needle is provided with a safety stop to prevent movement of the needle tip through the aperture. In other aspects, the safety shield includes a trigger bushing, in which the needle cannula is slidably received, that is sized larger than the aperture.
US08506527B2 Syringe assembly with plunger having a secondary dispensing reservoir
A method of supplying a flush/lock solution to a catheter assembly is disclosed which includes the steps of securing a distal end of a syringe assembly to the catheter assembly, advancing a plunger rod of the syringe assembly within a body of the syringe assembly until the plunger bottoms out on a distal wall of the body to eject a first fluid from a first fluid reservoir of the body from the fluid outlet of the syringe assembly, and after the plunger bottoms out on the distal wall of the body, advancing the plunger rod further within the body to advance a piercing member to pierce the plunger to eject a second fluid from a second fluid reservoir defined by the plunger from the fluid outlet.
US08506526B2 Seal structures for wet/dry automatic injectors
An automatic injection device including a housing, a chamber with a first compartment and a second compartment, and a seal structure between the compartments. The seal structure is initially in a sealing condition that seals the first compartment from the second compartment, where the seal includes a plug and an outer sealing member. The plug is slidably movable within the outer sealing member to convert the seal structure from the sealing condition to a mixing condition by opening a path between the first compartment and the second compartment. The automatic injection device also includes a needle assembly and an activation assembly. Activation of the activation assembly causes (1) pressurization of the first compartment, (2) the seal structure to convert from the sealing condition to the mixing condition, and (3) the first and second medicament components to be mixed and forced through the needle assembly.
US08506525B2 Wound sealing fluid delivery apparatus and method
A wound sealing fluid delivery apparatus and method includes a surface seal. A catheter with a first end and a second end is provided such that the catheter passes through the surface seal. An infusion port is connected with the first end of the catheter and an expandable internal seal is connected with the catheter at the second end.
US08506519B2 Pre-shaped therapeutic catheter
An ultrasound system has a catheter including an elongate flexible catheter body having a main lumen extending longitudinally therethrough. The catheter further includes an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the main lumen of the catheter body, the ultrasound transmission member having a proximal end connectable to an ultrasound generating device and a distal end coupled to the distal end of the catheter body. The catheter further includes a bent distal head or shaped a distal end of the catheter body to improve steerability.
US08506518B2 Tip assembly for a medical/surgical irrigator, the tip assembly including a reservoir for holding a therapeutic agent and a pump for discharging the agent
A medical/surgical irrigator with a handpiece for discharging a lavage solution. There is reservoir in which a therapeutic agent is stored. The therapeutic agent can be selectively mixed with the lavage solution to form a blended solution. The mixing can be performed selectively so as to make it possible to sequentially apply the blended solution or a basic (lavage only) solution.
US08506514B2 System for regulating intracranial pressure
The present invention relates to a method and system to regulate pressure in an object, and is especially suitable for regulating intracranial pressure in people suffering from hydrocephalus. The system includes the measurement of physical parameters other than the pressure to be regulated, especially the present position of the object, such as the inclination.
US08506501B2 Lightweight wheeze detection methods and systems
Lightweight wheeze detection methods and systems for portable respiratory health monitoring devices conserve computing resources in portable respiratory health monitoring devices by employing lightweight algorithm that calculates a partial STFT image of a respiratory signal that includes all data points necessary for wheeze detection but excludes many data points that are unnecessary for wheeze detection. The methods and systems provide substantial savings in computing resources while still ensuring every wheeze in a respiratory signal is detected.
US08506498B2 Systems and methods using induced perturbation to determine physiological parameters
According to embodiments, systems and methods for non-invasive blood pressure monitoring are disclosed. An exciter may induce perturbations in a subject, and a sensor or probe may be used to obtain a detected signal from the subject. The detected signal may then be used to measure one or more physiological parameters of the patient. For example if the perturbations are based on a known signal, any differences between the known signal and the input signal may be attributable to the patient's physiological parameters. A phase drift between the perturbation signal and the detected signal may be determined from a comparison of the scalograms of the exciter location and the sensor or probe location. From the scalogram comparison, more accurate and reliable physiological parameters may be determined.
US08506496B2 Method and apparatus to determine the end of the systolic part of a pressure curve
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for determining the systolic phase interval (SP) of an arterial pressure curve with a starting point (t0) of the systolic phase interval (SP) and an end point (tN) of the systolic phase interval (SP) wherein a QT interval is defined as the start of the Q wave and the end of the T wave in the hearts electrical cycle and wherein the determination of the end point (tN) of the systolic phase interval (SP) is restricted to the measured points of arterial pressure which fulfill the condition that the difference in time between the end point (tN) to be determined of the systolic phase interval (SP) and the starting point (t0) of the systolic phase interval (SP) is smaller than the QT interval.
US08506493B2 Imaging transducer assembly
The present invention is generally directed towards an imaging transducer assembly. Generally, the imaging transducer assembly is combined with a sensor of a medical positioning system. In one aspect, the transducer assembly and the sensor share the same voltage source. In another aspect of the invention, the sensor surrounds a portion of the imaging transducer assembly, forming a housing that reinforces the assembly.
US08506492B2 Ultrasound catheter and imaging device for recording ultra-sound images
The invention relates to an ultrasound catheter comprising a device arranged in the area of the catheter tip for ultra-sound image recording, with at least one lumen routed into the area of the catheter tip open at this end and ending adjacent to the ultrasound image recording device for issuing an ultrasound contrast means being provided.
US08506491B2 Switching DC converting device and portable system for ultrasonic medical imaging and diagnosing and method thereof
A switching DC converting device includes a switching DC converter and a synchronous clock circuit. The synchronous clock circuit is used to provide a wobbling synchronous clock input for the switching DC converter, and the central frequency of the wobbling synchronous clock avoids the operating frequency of a circuit powered by the switching DC converter.
US08506488B2 Ultrasound image enhancement in an ultrasound system
Embodiments for providing enhanced ultrasound images without lowering a frame rate in an ultrasound system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the ultrasound system includes: an ultrasound data acquisition unit configured to transmit ultrasound beams to a target object along predetermined plural scan line groups of scan lines in an alternative and sequential manner, receive ultrasound echoes reflected from the target object, and provide a plurality of ultrasound frame data, said predetermined plural scan line groups being respectively associated with predetermined steering angles and each of the plurality of ultrasound frame data being produced in response to the transmission of the ultrasound beam along the respective scan line groups; and a processor configured to sequentially form ultrasound images based on the ultrasound frame data and compound the ultrasound images in an interleaving way to form compound images.
US08506487B2 Ultrasound imaging device
A transmission/reception beamformer output provided with point spread functions having different wave number vector directions is used to obtain a compound image that is highly isochronous and sufficiently blurring-resistant.
US08506486B2 Ultrasound treatment of sub-dermal tissue for cosmetic effects
A method and system for noninvasive face lifts and tissue tightening are disclosed. The method and treatment system are configured for thermal treatment of Superficial Muscular Aponeurosis System (SMAS) tissue, muscular fascia, or both. In one embodiment, a cosmetic system is configured for treating the SMAS and/or muscular fasica through delivery of ultrasound energy at a depth, distribution, timing, and energy level to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
US08506484B2 Ultrasonic imaging device
An ultrasonic imaging device which narrows the width of annular areas to be established, without increasing the number of channels. The controller establishes the annular areas 421 to 42p the number of which is larger than the number of signal lines, along line intersections between wave surfaces 51 to 54 of reflective waves and a multi-dimensional surface of the probe 1. The controller selects multiple annular areas (0, 0), (0, 1), and (0, 2) with focal depths differing, for example, by an integral multiple of the ultrasonic wavelength λ, out of the multiple annular areas being established, and connects the multiple transducer elements positioned within the selected multiple annular areas with an identical signal line. Accordingly, the received signals from the selected multiple annular areas arrive at multiple time points shifted by the time corresponding to the wavelength, and the signals do not cancel one another out.
US08506482B2 Method and system for providing continuous calibration of implantable analyte sensors
Method and system for providing continuous calibration of analyte sensors includes calibrating a first sensor, receiving data associated with detected analyte levels from the first sensor, and calibrating a second sensor based on a predetermined scaling factor and data associated with detected analyte levels from the first sensor, is disclosed.
US08506481B2 Patient monitoring apparatus
A patient monitoring system including a sensing-recording device that attaches to a patient and a probe utilized by attending personnel at a trauma site. After an initial interaction between the probe and the sensing-recording device, the sensing-recording device samples one or more physiological parameters and stores time stamped readings in a first memory. The probe is adapted to take other measurements, download the data from the first memory of the sensing-recording device, manipulate the collective data and return data to a second memory in the sensing-recording device. The sensing-recording device continues to accumulate data in the first memory during transport of the patient from a trauma, site to a medical facility.
US08506479B2 Substantially rigid and stable endoluminal surgical suite for treating a gastrointestinal lesion
Exemplary embodiments of devices and method for affecting at least one anatomical tissue can be provided. A configuration can be provided that includes a structure which is expandable (i) having and/or (ii) forming at least one opening or a working space through which the anatomical tissue(s) is placed in the structure. For example, the structure, prior to being expanding, can have at least one partially rigid portion. In addition, or as an alternative, upon a partial or complete expansion thereof, the structure can be controllable to have a plurality of shapes. Further, the structure can be controllable to provide the working space with multiple shapes and/or multiple sizes.
US08506478B2 Illumination device for use in endoscope
An illumination device for use in an endoscope includes a light source, an optical fiber and a wavelength conversion member. The optical fiber guides light to a tip end of an endoscope insertion portion of the endoscope. The wavelength conversion member is provided at an emission end of the optical fiber. The wavelength conversion member configured to be excited by the light source. The illumination device can provide white illumination light obtained by mixing light emitted from the optical fiber and light obtained by exciting the wavelength conversion member by the light emitted from the optical fiber. Also, the illumination device can provide illumination light being different from the white illumination light, by using other excitation light.
US08506477B2 System and method for endoscopic treatment of tissue
An improved ligating system with a ligating barrel having an adjustable diameter for use with endoscopes of varying sizes is disclosed. The adjustable diameter may be provided by a collet, a flexible helical band, a plurality of screws, or a tapered elastomeric section.
US08506474B2 Method and device for treating dysfunctional cardiac tissue
Various methods and devices are provided for reducing the volume of the ventricles of the heart. In one embodiment, a method for reducing the ventricular volume of a heart chamber is provided including the steps of inserting an anchoring mechanism onto dysfunctional cardiac tissue, deploying one or more anchors into the dysfunctional cardiac tissue, raising the dysfunctional cardiac tissue using the anchors, and securing the anchors to hold the dysfunctional cardiac tissue in place. Further, a device for reducing the volume of the ventricles of a heart chamber is provided where the device has one or more clips for placement on dysfunctional cardiac tissue of a heart, one or more anchors for deployment and securement into the dysfunctional cardiac tissue, and a lifting mechanism for raising the one or more anchors and the dysfunctional cardiac tissue.
US08506473B2 Hearing-aid transducer having an engineered surface
A hearing aid transducer adapts itself to variations in the surface of a tympanic membrane and slides over the migrating membrane without lubrication. Microscopic setae create a conforming interface between the biocompatible material of the transducer and the living tissue of the tympanic membrane.
US08506469B2 Method to enhance neural tissue operation
The invention relates to a method for modulation, augmentation and/or stimulation of neural tissue and/or neural tissue related functionality with stimulating neural tissue and/or neural tissue related functionality with stimuli by which neural activity related local perfusion changes, electro-neuro-chemical, biochemical, neural modulative or neuroplastical responses and/or alterations in ‘metabolism supply lines-neural tissue’ interaction processes in vertebrates can be triggered and/or influenced.
US08506466B2 Method and apparatus for transporting signatures around a roll without introducing skew
An apparatus for transporting folded signatures is provided which includes a first roller and a second roller forming a first nip with the first roller. The first and second rollers each have a compressible outer layer, and are rotatable about respective axes. Preferably, the compressible outer later comprises a microcellular foam. The apparatus also includes a plurality of first transport tapes passing through the first nip and a plurality of second transport tapes passing through the first nip. The plurality of second transport tapes are wrapped at least partially around the second roller so that a signature transported between the first and second transport tapes between the first nip undergoes a change in transport direction as it is transported at least partially around the second roller. Preferably, the signatures enter the first nip perpendicular to a plane passing through the axes of the first and second rollers.
US08506465B2 Method and an apparatus for folding a medium
A method and apparatus for folding a medium in a folder, which includes a rotatable folding cylinder, a first rotatable press member capable of engaging with said folding cylinder to form a first folding pinch, a second rotatable press member capable of engaging with said folding cylinder to form a second folding pinch, and a medium feed means, wherein the medium is fed with the medium feed means towards the folding cylinder between the first and second pinch; b) the medium is then directed into the first folding pinch, formed by engaging said first rotatable press member with said folding cylinder, by rotating the folding cylinder in a first direction; c) a blouse is formed in the medium between said feed means and the folding cylinder; and d) said blouse is moved into said second pinch by rotating the folding cylinder in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.
US08506463B2 Roller assembly
A roller assembly (40) including a roller (46) fixed to a flange bearing (48) which is engaged with a roller sleeve (50) and rotatable relative to it, the roller (46), the flange bearing (48) and the roller sleeve (50) all being retained on a mounting screw (51) between a nut (58) threaded onto the screw (51) and a washer (52) mounted on the nut (51).
US08506459B2 Freestanding exercise apparatus
A freestanding exercise apparatus comprises a frame, a right door, a left door, and an exercise resistance source. The frame defines a sagittal plane dividing the frame into a left half and a right half with anterior and posterior ends. The right door is pivotally attached to the right half of the frame proximate the anterior end of the frame for pivoting about a right pivot axis. The left door is pivotally attached to the left half of the frame proximate the anterior end of the frame for pivoting about a left pivot axis. The exercise resistance source is connected to the frame. The frame, right pivot axis, and left pivot axis are configured and arranged such that the angle formed at the intersection of a first plane defined by the right pivot axis and the posterior end of the right half of the frame and a second plane defined by the left pivot axis and the posterior end of the left half of the frame is less than 90°.
US08506458B2 System and method for improving fitness equipment and exercise
In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.
US08506452B2 Continuously variable transmission
Inventions are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). In one aspect, a control system is adapted to facilitate a change in the ratio of a CVT. A control system includes a control reference nut coupled to a feedback cam and operably coupled to a skew cam. In some cases, the skew cam is configured to interact with carrier plates of a CVT. Various inventive feedback cams and skew cams can be used to facilitate shifting the ratio of a CVT. In some transmissions described, the planet subassemblies include legs configured to cooperate with the carrier plates. In some cases, a neutralizer assembly is operably coupled to the carrier plates. A shift cam and a traction sun are adapted to cooperate with other components of the CVT to support operation and/or functionality of the CVT. Among other things, shift control interfaces for a CVT are described.
US08506451B2 Vehicle drive device
A vehicle drive including an input coupled to an engine, an output coupled to wheels, an intermediate member between the input and output and coupled to a rotary electric machine, a friction engagement device between the input and intermediate member, and a control device. The control device, when starting the engine with the friction engagement device disengaged, engages the friction engagement device when a rotational speed difference between the input and intermediate member is equal to or less than a predetermined value; raises a rotational speed of the input using the rotary electric machine with the friction engagement device engaged to start the engine; and, when a rotational speed of the engine is equal to or more than a predetermined value, reduces an engagement pressure of the friction engagement device and the friction engagement device is returned to the engaged state when the rotational speed difference reaches a threshold.
US08506446B2 Pin for planetary gear system
A planetary gear system and a pin for coupling a planet gear to a carrier in a planetary gear system are disclosed. The planetary gear system includes a planet gear defining a central planet axis, a carrier disposed adjacent the at least one planet gear, and a pin extending from the carrier through the planet gear generally along the central planet axis. The pin includes a first end, a second end, and an outer surface extending therebetween. The pin further defines an opening extending from the outer surface generally along the central planet axis and at least partially through the pin.
US08506445B2 Selectable torque transmitting device
A torque transmitting device includes a first race, a second race, and a biasing member. The torque transmitting device selectively transmits a torque in a rotational direction between a first member and a second member. The second member includes a surface that defines an annular bore having a decreasing diameter in an axial direction. The second race opposes the first race and includes a surface that opposes the second member and has the decreasing diameter in the axial direction. The first race and the second race define a predetermined torque limit. The biasing element biases the second race against the second member with a predetermined force that contributes to a predetermined holding torque between the surface of the second race and the surface of the second member that is less than the predetermined torque limit.
US08506442B2 Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, at least four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes actuatable in combinations of two to establish a plurality of forward gear ratios and one reverse gear ratio.
US08506439B2 Axle drive device for an axle of a motor vehicle, as well as motor vehicle
The invention relates to an axle drive device for an axle of a motor vehicle, with a drive assembly and a differential. Here, it is provided that the drive assembly is in the form of an electrical drive assembly and the differential has at least one override unit. The invention furthermore relates to a motor vehicle.
US08506433B2 Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission configured to transmit a rotational driving force of one pulley to another pulley by a driving-force transmitting means wound between the two pulleys, wherein each of the two pulleys is configured to vary a groove width thereof, the continuously variable transmission including: an engagement-receiving portion provided to the driving-force transmitting means, in a side of the driving-force transmitting means on which the driving-force transmitting means is wound on the pulleys; and a movable engaging portion provided to a shaft portion of at least one of the two pulleys, wherein the movable engaging portion is movable in a radial direction of the shaft portion to protrude from and escape into the shaft portion, wherein the movable engaging portion is configured to protrude from the shaft portion so as to engage with the engagement-receiving portion at least one of when a pulley-ratio region is in a setting for highest speed and when the pulley-ratio region is in a setting for lowest speed.
US08506432B2 Belt type stepless transmission and pulley for the same
A stationary pulley (66) includes a pressing pulley (68) having a stationary pulley surface (66a) and also includes a support pulley (70) having a rotating shaft (15) fixed to the center section of the support pulley. The support pulley (70) is placed so as to face a movable pulley surface (14a) across the pressing pulley (68) in the direction of the axis of the rotating shaft (15), and the support pulley (70) supports an outer peripheral section (68b) of the pressing pulley (68) so as to restrain axial movement of the outer peripheral section (68b). The pressing pulley (68) has an inner peripheral section (68c) axially movable relative to the rotating shaft (15) and can transmit torque to the rotating shaft (15).
US08506430B2 Oval ball, especially rugby ball or football
An oval ball, in particular rugby ball or football with a casing and with at least one electronic component or module with a transmitter unit, which is arranged in the casing and is held in a defined position, wherein the at least one electronic module is fastened on or in a shape part with a positive and/or material fit, in the region of the tips or in the region of a valve of the casing. In a further embodiment, the module is suspended on nets which are connected to the tip region of the casing in a large-surfaced manner.
US08506428B2 Hockey net attachment mechanism
A hockey goal frame and a hockey goal frame with a mesh net assembly are disclosed. The hockey goal frame includes two vertical posts joined by a crossbar that defines a forward frame. The forward frame is supported by a lower supporting member. The forward frame and lower supporting member have attachments wires for accepting an attachment tab from a mesh net in order to attach the mesh net to the frame. The attachment tabs have two complimentary hook-and-loop fasteners that are coupled to surround the attachment tab around the attachment wires.
US08506422B2 Golf putter with a circular, plain, vertical, smooth and graded head
This utility model refers to a golf putter that, contrary to a head with a straight and plain face, has a circular, plain, vertical, smooth and graded face.With a common putter, a player aligns himself with the line of putt. However, with the use of a circular and plain face, a player aligns himself with the hole. The putter's head indicates the line of putt. This being, a player's stroke is always perpendicular to the ball's axis and in direction of the line of putt's angle. With a circular and plain face, the head is positioned and, thus, the angle is no longer 0°. Rather, it takes on a specific degree reflecting the chosen line of putt. The angle only changes through repositioning the putter. This utility model is applicable in the manufacturing of Putters.
US08506420B2 Golf club head with grooves
The present invention discloses a golf club head having a plurality of grooves. On the face of the golf club head is a first and second plurality of grooves. The second set of plurality of grooves is smaller in width and depth than those of the first set of plurality of grooves. Each groove of the second set of grooves is positioned at an angle ranging from 15 degrees to 25 degrees relative to each groove of the first set of grooves.
US08506416B1 Adjustable golf surface system
An adjustable golf surface system having first and second platforms pivotally connected via a hinge wherein a golf surface is on the top surface of the first platform, the platforms can rotate about a base and base stud in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. A lifting mechanism operated by a jackscrew allows the first platform to pivot upwardly with respect to the second platform.
US08506411B2 Game system with enhanced low power mode-related processing
A TV game machine is connected to a portable game machine being used as a controller. If no operations have been carried out by a user to the portable game machine, the portable game machine sends a sleep request to the TV game machine, and then enters sleep mode. On receiving the sleep request, the TV game machine causes a message to be displayed on a display, and notifies a user that the portable game machine is being operated in sleep mode. This screen display continues until the portable game machine returns from the sleep mode. Thus, it is possible to prevent the user who sees the portable game machine in sleep mode from erroneously believing that the portable game machine is turned off and then operating a power button to turn it on.
US08506408B2 System and method for collaboration
Techniques are disclosed for facilitating a shared activity conducted by multiple participants via remote devices, particularly when there are more players then available remote devices. For example, the shared activity may be users playing electronic versions of a variety of card games or board games (or other game types). Users interact with a central device and one or more remote devices. The central device may be used to present “public” information on a central game play field—such as a game board, draw and discard piles, place cards, current scores, whose turn it is, etc. And the remote devices are used to present “private” game information to individual players—such as a player's “hole cards” or letter tiles. Further, users may make game choices and provide game input by interacting with the handheld device.
US08506401B2 Gaming table device having a game table on which the game medium is disposed
A gaming table device which can determine frauds precisely and human errors is provided.A plurality of antennas for reading medium identification information of the game medium disposed on a game table through a wireless communication are disposed at locations spaced away from each other, and when a first antenna of the plurality of antennas is selected, a second antenna spaced at a predetermined distance from the first antenna of the plurality of antennas is selected.
US08506393B2 Products and processes for point gaming derivatives
Methods of tracking points among participants in various wagers. An indication of a wager may be received, including point distributions, participants, an event, etc. An indication of an outcome of the wager may be received. Points may be allocated among participants in accordance with a desired point distribution based on the outcome of the wager. An indication of a point adjustment may be received, and points may be adjusted accordingly. The point adjustment may be associated with an external exchange between participants in a wager. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08506385B2 Regulated gaming trusted energy saving
Casino operators can reduce their energy bills by placing the main controller of selected unused gaming machines into low-power mode while retaining total control and trust. Trusted Energy Saving is accomplished by: (1) establishing a secure “out-of-band” communication (or equivalent) between gaming machines and the casino's management system such that full network security is maintained while the main controller is in low power standby mode, (2) employing intelligent strategies to wake-up and turn-off the main controller of selected gaming machines by anticipating player use, (3) waiving the lengthy security verification required by regulation upon every gaming machine start-up and optionally (4) by displaying video promotional content on each turned-off gaming machine to continue to attract prospective players and to use the timing of each player approach to intelligently structure game menus based on the promotional content that has successfully attracted the player.
US08506384B2 Multi-card bingo game features
After the main ball drop of a bingo game, a player may be given a free extra bingo number. A probability of awarding a free ball may be determined, at least in part, according to a desired paytable percentage for the bingo game (or vice versa). Some implementations of the invention provide multi-card bingo games. A player may be required to hit a predetermined pattern on more than one bingo card in order to obtain a progressive award. The number of hits in the pattern(s) and/or the number of bingo cards involved may be determined according to a desired progressive award size and/or a desired probability of obtaining the progressive award. Players may have an opportunity to purchase one or more additional bingo numbers after the main ball drop of a bingo game. A player may be provided the option of purchasing a block of more than one additional bingo number after the main ball drop. The player may be offered such a block at a discount, as compared to the price for purchasing the additional bingo numbers individually.
US08506383B2 Slot machine hybrid pin and ball game
An electronic gaming console is illustrated having a console cabinet 10 including a prize display 12, a coin entry slot 13, a payout tray 14 and internally mounted game control processor circuits. A video game is provided for play on the console in which images of spinning reels spin and objects (balls) are dropped through a series of obstacles (pins) and eventually land in one or more of a set of containers. Prizes are paid according to either the state of the reels after spinning or the number of balls which are in each container at the end of the ball drop and/or the manner in which the pins are hit.
US08506381B2 Gaming machine
A gaming machine includes a first lottery device which performs a lottery to determine an arrangement of option areas on a lottery field to be presented to a player, and a first presenting device which presents the determined arrangement. A second lottery device performs a lottery to draw a lottery position on the lottery field when the arrangement of each of the option areas has been determined by the first lottery device, and a second presenting device presents a lottery position based on a lottery result by the second lottery device. A dividend control device gives a dividend corresponding to a property of an option area, when the property of the option area is configured to yield the dividend and the option area satisfies a predetermined relationship with the lottery position drawn by the second lottery device.
US08506379B2 Interactive feature game
A gaming machine comprises a display, a game player input means and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display. The game controller controls play of a game in which a winning game result causes a prize to be awarded to a game player. The game comprises an interactive sequence related to a tournament in which a representation of a first video-player of one team is displayed. An action of the first video-player to be executed is selected by the game player via the game player input means and the game controller selects an action to be performed by another video-player. Depending on an outcome resulting from the selected actions, an award is made to the game player.
US08506378B2 Gaming system, gaming device, and method providing advertising messages to players based on a determination of a positive winning gaming session
A gaming system, gaming device, and method providing advertising messages to players based on a determination of a positive winning gaming session. In one embodiment, the gaming system monitors a plurality of plays of at least one wagering game during a designated period. At the end of the designated period, the gaming system determines whether a player of the monitored plays had a positive winning gaming session. If the player had a positive winning gaming session, the gaming system provides at least one advertising message to the player.
US08506376B2 Electronic gaming system with real playing cards and multiple player displays for virtual card and betting images
Electronic gaming systems with real playing cards and multiple player displays for virtual playing cards and betting images, are described. In one implementation, the exemplary system allows real playing cards to be used in electronic gaming systems that provide multiple video displays for multiple live participants at a gaming table. The system enables play with real playing cards, virtual playing cards, or both. An example system can post virtual images of the cards in play on the participant displays and can also display virtual bets, e.g., wagering chips, on the same displays, while also allowing and tracking real playing cards. The real playing cards provide the look, feel, and action of playing a card game with real cards, while the electronic gaming system provides elements of automation, security, and virtual display of the cards and bets.
US08506375B2 Community card poker game
Systems and methods are provided to facilitate a player re-entering a card game, even though they may have “folded” their hand on a previous turn in the card game. Conventionally, in traditional forms of community card poker games, once a player has folded their hand they are unable to take part in the game currently being played. Rather than folding their hand, a player can “hold” their hand with the possibility of returning to the game. By enabling a buy-back-in feature a player can re-enter the game to continue betting, etc. Further the sequence of game play can be altered compared with the conventional play. The card game can be played in a physical environment as well as a digital environment.
US08506371B2 Game device, game device control method, program, information storage medium
To provide a game device for enabling a game player to recognize a positional relationship among respective game characters even when the game characters are located densely in an area. A game data update unit (54) carries out a game in which a plurality of player objects appear. A game screen image display control unit (56) displays a game screen image including the image of a player object. However, when player objects numbering a reference number or more are present within a predetermined noted area, the game screen image display control unit (56) restricts displaying of the images of the player objects and instead shows position indicator images having a smaller area than the images in the game screen image.
US08506370B2 Adjustable fitness arena
Aspects of this disclosure relate to systems and methods for conducting sport-specific activities. Illustrated systems may be adjustable to permit a performance of different sport-specific activities. Further aspects relate to using sensor data to evaluate a user's performance and determine sport-specific fitness parameters. Various fitness parameters may measure reactive agility and/or the physiological state of the user, such as when in an exhausted state. Illustrated systems may have structures with an output device and a sensor. The structure may include a vertically-arranged planar surface to form a wall. Several structures may be configured to form a boundary. The boundary may be automatically adjustable, for example, depending on one or more specific fitness routines to be implemented. Calculated fitness parameters may be visually mapped on the structures of the system.
US08506369B2 Programmable game-based haptic enabled gun controller
Various systems, game controllers, and methods for simulating various objects such as weapons are provided. For example, a game controller may include a trigger, a processor within the body that receives a trigger signal when the trigger is activated by the user. The processor may communicate with a computer running a software program such as a gaming application, and an actuator coupled to the trigger, the actuator configured to output a haptic effect to the trigger in response to receiving a control signal from the processor. The game controller may simulate a gun and generate a recoil effect. In some embodiments, the recoil effect may be generated by impacting a moving mass from a discharge end of the gun to a handle end of the gun. In some embodiments, the recoil effect may be generated by using a body part of a user as a tether.
US08506368B2 Device and method for enhanced air circulation
A wireless communication device (200) and method (300) adapted to prolong the useful life of an energy storage device is disclosed. In its simplest form, it can include: detecting (310) a first threshold of an energy conversion module comprising at least one of a temperature threshold, oxygen threshold, voltage, a current threshold, a power threshold and moisture threshold; sensing (320) a temperature in proximity to a thermal module comprising at least one of a fuel tank, an electronic computing module, and a housing; and generating (330) an air stream based on the detected first threshold (310) and the sensed temperature (320). The device (200) and method (300) can automatically and dynamically manage, for example, temperature, oxygen and/or moisture of an energy storage module, to maintain the energy storage module within desired specifications and tolerances. This can help to prolong the useful life of the energy storage module and its components and help to maintain a maximum recharging capacity.
US08506364B2 Abrasive article having a line of weakness
A coated abrasive article (1) comprises a backing (3) having an abrasive coating (5) on one side, an attachment layer (7) on the other side of the backing, and a line of weakness (9) that does not penetrate the front face of the abrasive coating (5). The line of weakness, which may be formed using a laser beam, comprises a through-cut (11) in the attachment layer (7) and perforations (13) in the backing (3), and permits one part of the abrasive article (1) to be separated from another part. Alternatively, the abrasive article can be used in its original form.
US08506363B2 Substrate holder and substrate holding method
A substrate holder is a mechanism for holding a substrate, to be polished, by vacuum suction. The substrate holder includes a substrate-holding stage having a suction surface for the substrate, and a fluid passage selectively coupled to a vacuum source and a fluid supply source. The suction surface has a plurality of closed sections surrounded by convexities, and the fluid passage includes a plurality of communication passages which are in fluid communication with the plurality of closed segments respectively and independently.
US08506355B1 System and method for in-situ inspection during metallurgical cross-sectioning
A system and method are provided for in-situ inspection optical inspection during a parallel polishing process. The method provides a polishing device with a spindle bit for holding a metallurgical sample, and a rotatable wheel having an inner diameter with a top surface for accepting a polishing compound and a transparent outer diameter. An optical system underlies the wheel outer diameter for recording images of the metallurgical sample. The method polishes the metallurgical sample against the wheel inner diameter. Without releasing the metallurgical sample from the spindle bit, the metallurgical sample is moved to a first position overlying the wheel outer diameter, and the metallurgical sample is optically inspected. In one aspect, the polishing device has a cleaning system overlying the wheel outer diameter, and the method sprays the wheel outer diameter with cleaning solution to support an in-situ inspection.
US08506353B2 Method of cutting a corner out of a workpiece
A cutting apparatus includes a frame with a first and a second conveyor operatively attached thereto. The conveyors are configured to carry a workpiece from a first end a second end of the frame. The first conveyor is disposed at an angle of about 45 degrees to a ground surface supporting the cutting apparatus. The second conveyor is disposed at an angle of about 45 degrees to the ground surface, wherein the second conveyor is positioned perpendicularly to the first conveyor so as to form a V-shaped channel therewith. A first cutting blade is operatively attached to the frame and is positioned generally parallel to the first conveyor and a second cutting blade is operatively attached to the frame and is positioned generally parallel to the second conveyor.
US08506352B2 Eyeglass lens processing apparatus
An eyeglass lens processing apparatus for processing a peripheral edge of an eyeglass lens, includes: a processing unit including a plurality of processing tools that process the peripheral edge of the eyeglass lens held by a lens chuck shaft; a calibrating lens; a mode selector that selects a calibration mode; a memory that stores calibration processing data for processing the calibrating lens to a predetermined shape; a detecting unit that includes a tracing stylus that contacts a surface of the calibrating lens which is processed by the processing unit based on the calibration processing data to detect the shape of the processed calibrating lens in the calibration mode; and a calculating unit that obtain calibration data by comparing a detected result by the detecting unit with the calibration processing data in the calibration mode.
US08506347B2 Combination brassiere and tank top
The inventions relate to a garment that combines a foam cup, underwire bra combined with a tank top overlay made of a spandex blend or lace fabric for the tank top. The bra function is provided by underwires and specially formed foam cups for support and shaping of the breasts. The tank top portion of the garment is attached to one of the shoulder straps which are diagonally fixed to the tank top portion of the garment. The tank top portion of the invention is attached from each side as well as the bottom of the garment, in a unique “turn-under” sewing technique. A lace or combination spandex mix fabric attaches from the outside of the cups to the lace band at the back of the garment. This garment is used under low cut dresses and blouses, to cover cleavage and décolletage, which is an employment standard for many companies.
US08506337B2 Control device and boat drive comprising a control device
A control device, in particular for a boat drive, which comprises a control drive, a reduction gear system (8, 11, 15/17) and a control element (2) that can be pivoted through a steering angle. The reduction gear system comprises a multi-stage toothed gear transmission (8, 11, 15/17) with a toothed wheel (10) on the drive input side, and the control drive comprises two servomotors (6) which drive the toothed wheel (10) simultaneously but whose driving action are slightly opposed to one another.
US08506336B2 Stamped and formed contact
A high-reliability contact includes a termination portion configured to receive a wire. A mating portion is formed integrally with the termination portion. The mating portion has edges. The mating portion is stamped and formed so that the edges are rolled together to form a mating barrel having a longitudinal axis. The mating barrel is configured to receive a corresponding contact. At least one contact finger is formed in the mating barrel. The at least contact finger extends into the mating barrel toward the longitudinal axis to facilitate contacting the corresponding contact. A contact hood is formed at a distal end of the mating portion to facilitate protecting the at least one contact finger when the mating portion is coupled to the corresponding contact.
US08506331B2 Electrical connector assembly with external metallic gasket
An electrical connector assembly (100) including: a housing (1) having an upper shield part (15) and a lower shield part (16) engaged with each other to form a rear body portion (12) and a front mating portion (13). Two printed circuit boards (2) are positioned in the housing. A spacer (3) is sandwiched between the two printed circuit boards. A metallic holder (8) surrounds the body portion of the housing. A metallic gasket (9) surrounds a rear section of the mating portion and located adjacent to the body portion. Each of the upper and lower shield parts has a first post positioning (154, 162) a corresponding one of the two printed circuit boards and a second post positioning (155, 163) the two printed circuit boards and the spacer.
US08506329B2 Method and system for a connector alignment insert
A method assembling a cable connector system and an alignment insert are provided. The alignment insert includes a body having a first planar surface, a second planar surface, and a thickness extending therebetween. The body includes an outer peripheral surface sized complementarily to an inner surface of a first connector portion and further including one or more slots therethrough and extending from the outer peripheral surface inwardly a first predetermined distance. A first width of each of the one or more slots and the predetermined distance based on an orientation of a connector pin positioned within the first connector portion.
US08506324B2 USB receptacle with a riser at its end
A USB receptacle assembly includes a USB receptacle. The receptacle has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The USB receptacle also includes a USB interface located at the first end. A riser is coupled to the second end of the USB receptacle and is generally perpendicular to a long axis of the USB receptacle. A board connector is coupled to the riser in electrical communication with the USB receptacle.
US08506322B2 Portable computer battery structures
Portable computer battery structures are provided. The portable computer battery structures may include a battery with a metal enclosure and a battery cable with a floating end. The battery may have six cells. Three pairs of parallel-connected cells may be connected together in series. The six cells may be substantially planar in shape. The battery may have a connector with at least five conductive pins and six recesses. The battery cable may have a cable with at least five conductive pins that mate with the five pins of the battery's connector and with six support pins that slide into the six recesses of the battery's connector. The batter connector may be formed on a printed circuit board substrate that folds over on itself.
US08506321B2 Connector
The male housing of the connector includes a flexible brace that extends in insertion direction of the male housing in a position separated from the main body and is connected to the main body at a front side and a backside of the insertion direction and has a latching block that fits into a latching hole formed on the side of a female housing, formed on a side separated from the main body of a midway part, where the midway part can be flexibly deformed so as to be close to the main body.
US08506319B2 Actuator for a connector
A cable connector is provided including a cable end to couple to a cable, and a mating end to couple to a corresponding connector. A latch is positioned proximate to the mating end to secure the cable connector to the corresponding connector. The latch is moveable between an open position and a closed position. An actuator is provided to move the latch between the open position and the closed position. The actuator includes a biasing end that engages the latch. The actuator also includes an operating end extending from the cable end to receive an opening force that moves the biasing end to operate the latch. The operating end has an upper tab and a lower tab. The upper tab extends along an upper portion of the cable. The lower tab extends along a lower portion of the cable.
US08506312B2 Card edge connector with improved ejector mechanism
A card edge connector includes an elongated housing, the housing extends along a longwise direction thereof and has a pair of opposed side walls, a central slot between the side walls, and a tower portion disposed at one end thereof. A plurality of contacts are retained in the housing. An ejector mechanism is rotatable retained in the housing and has a body portion, a flexible arm divided from the body portion and a locking protrusion located on the flexible arm. The lock protrusion is adapted to resist the tower portion during the ejector mechanism rotates with respect to the housing.
US08506311B2 Communication device
A communication device is configured to perform data communications with a communication target while being connected to an information processing apparatus, and includes a communication unit and a holding unit. The communication unit is provided with a connector connectable to a connection port of the information processing apparatus and performs data communications with the communication target under control of the information processing apparatus. The holding unit holds the communication target. The holding unit is attached to the communication unit so as to be movable to a position where the holding unit covers the connector in a stored state, and movable to a position where the holding unit exposes the connector in a used state.
US08506310B2 Connector for electrified ceiling grid and method of installing the same
A connector for installation on a grid having conductors therein and a method of installation therefore. The connector has a housing with at least one contact mounted in the housing which makes an electrical connection with the conductors of the grid when the connector is mated with the grid. At least one mounting member is movable between a first position in which a grid mounting section of the at least one mounting member is positioned in the housing and a second position in which the grid mounting section extends beyond a top surface of the housing to provide a mechanical connection between the grid and the connector.
US08506300B2 Flight simulator
The invention is embodied in the form of a flight simulator in the conditions of vortex danger and in conditions when a pilot is informed about the possibility to penetrate into said dangerous area of vortex sheddings produced by a vortex generator. The inventive simulator is embodies in the form of modular variants and comprises a module (9) for imitating vortex conditions for determining the trajectory and intensity of the vortex sheddings of vortex generators as the population of vorticity areas, a module (10) for imitating the action of vortex disturbances on an aircraft and for determining additional forces and torques induced by the vortex sheddings of vortex generators, a module (17) for the parameters of the dangerous area of the vortex disturbances, a warning module for calculating the vortex disturbances danger on a modulated control plane located in front of the aircraft at an anticipated distance therefrom equal to a distance which is covered by the aircraft during a selected forecast time and is sufficient for carrying out a flight maneuver by the aircraft in order to move away from the dangerous trailing vortex area.
US08506295B2 File for working on the interproximal space in orthodontics as well as in conservative treatments and prophylaxis of teeth and relative device able to see connected to an oscillating handpiece
A file for working on the interproximal space in orthodontics as well as in conservative treatments and prophylaxis of teeth comprises a tool-holding structure and an abrasive plate, wherein the tool-holding structure is shaped in an arc and provided at the ends with two tubular portions and wherein the abrasive plate is stably fixed at both of its ends to the tubular portions of the tool-holding structure, wherein the tool-holding structure is symmetrical and overmolded on said abrasive plate. A relative device able to be connected to an oscillating handpiece comprises such a file and a shank for the connection to the handpiece, wherein the shank is removably fixed to the file.
US08506293B2 Ultrasonic endodontic dental irrigator
An endodontic irrigating system that is capable of using ultrasonic energy for the treatment of a root canal and other dental areas. The system has at least one and preferably multiple solution reservoirs. The reservoirs are connected to one or more handpieces, which have at least one fluid outlet. The handpiece has at least one control mechanism disposed upon the handpiece for selective delivery of fluids to the dental. Ultrasonic energy is available within the system to be used in connection with another handpiece or handpieces concurrently with fluid flow to the handpiece, such as flow of irrigating fluids.
US08506290B2 Heating apparatus with air shutter adjustment
A heating apparatus can have a sealed combustion chamber. A burner and an air shutter can be within the sealed combustion chamber. An air shutter control can be outside of the sealed combustion chamber. The air shutter control can provide fine tuning adjustment of the air shutter.
US08506287B2 Industrial burner
An apparatus and process is provided for combining fuel and combustion air to produce a mixture. The mixture is burned in a combustion chamber to produce a flame.
US08506286B1 Tool closing system for plastic blow molding machines
A tool closing system for plastic blow molding machines comprises a drive base plate, a front mold clamping plate and a rear mold clamping plate positioned between the front clamping plate and the base plate. The base plate, front clamping plate, and rear clamping plate are shiftably arranged on guides which are mounted on a carriage. A drive device is fastened to the base plate and comprises an extensible and retractable drive rod which is articulated to the rear clamping plate for force transmission without bending moment. Two substantially C-shaped or U-shaped frame elements are arranged side by side in parallel with the guides. Each have a substantially horizontally extending central web and two substantially vertically extending webs. A respective one of the two vertical webs is articulated to the base plate and the other vertical web is articulated to the front clamping plate.
US08506285B2 Method and apparatus for reforming a portion of a plastic container using induction heating
An apparatus (10, 10′) and a machine (100) for reforming a portion of a plastic package (50) using induction heating. The apparatus and machine comprise a frame (20) engaging the plastic package and a workpiece support (40) having an electrically conducting workpiece (44, 48, 102). An induction workhead (62) provides an alternating current power supply to an induction element (60, 104). The induction element is positioned proximate the workpiece of the workpiece support and heats the workpiece via induction. A mechanism (22) positions the plastic package proximate the heated workpiece so that the workpiece transfers heat to the portion of the plastic package thereby softening the portion. A forming die (30) supported on the frame engages the portion to reform the portion. Also provided is a process of using the apparatus and machine to reform a portion of a plastic package using induction heating.
US08506283B1 Tamale maker
A device, such as a tamale maker, for inserting edible filling into dough, generally includes a lower assembly and an upper assembly. The lower assembly includes an elongate cylindrical mold sleeve comprised of a plurality of separable longitudinal segments around a central cavity and a base for receiving the mold sleeve so as to define a container for receiving dough. The upper assembly comes in two forms, one having a plunger for use with masa dough having a firm consistency so it can be formed into a self-supporting shape, and one having tines for inserting a solid or frozen filling into flowable or soft masa dough. The tamale is removed from the container by separating one or more sleeve segments of the container to expose the tamale.
US08506279B2 Safety device for punches in a compression moulding apparatus
A safety device for an apparatus for compression-moulding objects that includes a moulding carousel provided with a plurality of punches and with a plurality of corresponding moulding elements, each mould element being movable between a first position in which it does not interact with the respective punch and a second position in which it interacts with the respective punch to mould an object. Each punch is associated with an extracting device suitable for extracting from the respective punch a moulded object. The extracting device is driven by a cam track obtained in a fixed frame of the moulding carousel. The cam track includes a cam track portion that is movable between an operating position in which it interacts with the extracting device and a non-operating position in which it does not interact with the extracting device.
US08506275B2 Removable device for moulding a flexible wall in the groove of a tire pattern
The invention relates to a tire curing mold comprising at least one lining element for molding the tread of said tire, said lining element comprising at least one bead for molding a groove in the tread. The curing mold comprises at least one insert forming a portion of the bead, said insert partially or completely delimiting a slot extending into the depth of the bead. The slot is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the bead. The slot is configured in order to mold a flexible wall of reduced thickness made as one piece with at least one wall of the groove molded by the bead.
US08506274B2 Apparatus for manufacturing tyres for vehicle wheels
In a method for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, a green tire, once formed, is transferred into a vulcanization mold and pressed against the holding walls of a molding cavity. Concurrently with the pressing step, a fluid present between the green tire and the holding walls is evacuated through vent valves. The tire is brought into contact with the closing head of each valve so as to push it toward a closed position of the valve itself. The closing head has a distal portion facing the molding cavity and includes at least one grip element for the tire blend, so that the closure member is pulled toward the open position while the molded and cured tire is moved away from the inner surface of the molding cavity.
US08506273B2 Seamless capsule manufacturing apparatus
A liquid coolant supply pipe and an over flow pipe are provided on the outer side of a capsule forming pipe through which a liquid coolant flows and into which liquid droplets are dropped from a nozzle. The liquid coolant is supplied to the liquid coolant supply pipe by a low pulsatory motion type pump, and the flow is regulated by a flow straightening block in the liquid coolant supply pipe. The cooling liquid passes through a liquid coolant introducing section having a curved surface, and then flows into the capsule forming pipe from an upper portion opening in a cap mounted to the upper part of the capsule forming pipe. The liquid coolant flows into the capsule forming pipe, and the excess flows into the overflow pipe.
US08506272B2 Scroll compressor lubrication system
A lubricant metering system for a compressor may include a cap, a cap cage, and a shaft. The cap may include an outer surface, a first recess, and a first radial bore extending between the first recess and the outer surface. The cap cage may include a second recess receiving the cap and a lubricant inlet in communication with the first recess via the first radial bore. The shaft may be received within the first recess and may include an axially extending bore and a second radial bore extending between an outer diameter of the shaft and the axially extending bore. The shaft may be mounted for rotation relative to the cap to allow lubricant to flow into the axially extending bore via the first and second radial bores when the second radial bore is aligned with the first radial bore.
US08506271B2 Scroll machine having axially biased scroll
A compressor includes a shell, a compression mechanism, and an axial biasing system. The shell defines a first passage forming a first discharge passage. The compression mechanism includes first and second scroll members meshingly engaged with one another and forming a series of compression pockets. The first scroll member includes a second discharge passage. The axial biasing system includes a biasing member having first and second surfaces generally opposite one another. The first surface includes a first radial surface area exposed to an intermediate pressure from one of the compression pockets and a second radial surface area exposed to a discharge pressure. The second surface includes a third radial surface area exposed to the intermediate pressure. The biasing member is axially displaceable between first and second positions. The biasing member axially engages the first scroll member when in the first position.
US08506269B2 Low noise type balance shaft module
A balance shaft module equipped with a dual pump including a main oil pump and a sub-oil pump may include a pump rotor rotatably coupled to a housing, a discharge space formed in the housing for discharging oil in the sub-oil pump, a pulse chamber formed in the housing to increase the discharge space, wherein the oil discharged through the discharge space is merged with the oil flowing through the pulse chamber such that discharge pulse pressure is reduced, and an eccentric washer having a discharging opening space formed by cutting off a portion inward from the outside, wherein the discharge opening space of the eccentric washer is connected to the discharge space to fluid-communicate with the discharge space of the pump rotor.
US08506263B2 Vacuum pump
A vacuum pump is provided comprising a pumping mechanism, a drive shaft for driving the pumping mechanism and a gear box connected to the drive shaft for rotating the drive shaft. Pressure control means are provided to define a path to allow fluid to flow from the pumping mechanism to the gear box in order to reduce the pressure difference therebetween. A reservoir is located within this path for collecting oil passing along the drive shaft from the gear box towards the pumping mechanism. In use, this enables pressurized fluid flowing from the pumping mechanism towards the gear box to urge oil which has collected in the reservoir, towards the gear box.
US08506251B2 Gas turbine blade, manufacturing method therefor, and gas turbine using turbine blade
Gas turbine blades which simplify the formation of cooling channels provided inside the turbine blades while simultaneously avoiding loss of turbine blade strength and rigidity due to forming of the cooling channels. Cooling channels provided in the interior of a gas turbine blade include a plurality of straight channel-like base-side elongated holes extending in a longitudinal direction at a base side of the turbine blade, a plurality of straight channel-like tip-side elongated holes extending in a longitudinal direction at a tip side of the turbine blade, and a plurality of communicating hollow portions interposed at connection portions between the two types of elongated holes to allow the two types of elongated holes to communicate with each other, and have larger cross-sectional areas than the channel cross-sectional areas of both elongated holes. The communicating hollow portions are formed to match the position of a platform portion of the turbine blade.
US08506246B2 Static seal
The static seal (30) includes a rotary seal body (32) comprising an annular base portion (34) which is drivingly mountable on a rotary component such as a shaft and an annular cantilever portion (40) connected at one end to the base portion (34). The seal (30) 5 further includes a rotary seal face (48) and circumferential weights (44) connected to the cantilever portion (40). The seal is configured to dilate under centrifugal force to provide a running clearance between the rotary seal face and a complementary static seal face with which the rotary seal face is in contact when the rotary seal body (28) is stationary. The rotary seal body is further configured so as to facilitate the breaking up of slurry which may set around the seal when the pump (10) of which the seal forms part is inoperative.
US08506244B2 Instream hydro power generator
A turbine apparatus is immersed in an ambient stream of a flowing fluid, such as water, so as to encapture a portion of the flowing fluid and extract power therefrom, before returning it back into the ambient stream, which may be a tidal flow of ocean water, or a relative flow of water behind a boat. The apparatus includes a converging intake duct with an inlet opening that faces forward into the ambient stream flow, a spiral volute casing that redirects the fluid into a spiral flow, a rotor arranged coaxially on the spiral axis, and an exhaust duct that diverges and curves from an exhaust inlet coaxial with the spiral axis to an exhaust outlet that opens rearwardly into the ambient flow. The rotor has a peripheral rotor inlet around the circumference of a first stage thereof and an axial rotor outlet at one axial end thereof, and is arranged with its rotor axis coinciding with the spiral axis oriented transverse to the ambient stream flow. The rotor redirects the fluid from the spiral tangential and radial direction at the rotor inlet to the axial direction at the rotor outlet, while extracting power therefrom. Fluid flow channels are designed to achieve smooth acceleration, redirection, power transfer, and deceleration of the fluid preferably without turbulence and cavitation, and preferably using streamlines to develop the surface contours of complex channel components.
US08506243B2 Segmented thermally insulating coating
A gas turbine article includes a substrate, a plurality of geometric surface features that protrude from the substrate, and a thermally insulating topcoat disposed over the plurality of geometric surface features. The thermally insulating topcoat includes segmented portions that are separated by faults that extend through the topcoat from the geometric surface features.
US08506241B1 Turbine blade with cooling and tip sealing
A turbine rotor blade with a hollow open cavity formed between the airfoil walls, and radial flow near wall cooling channels formed within the walls that open on the tip surface to discharge the cooling air for sealing of the tip. The radial channels have a converging flow area to increase the cooling air flow velocity, and the radial cooling channels on the pressure side wall are slanted toward the pressure side so that the discharged cooling air will produce a smaller vena contractor and further reduce tip leakage flow.
US08506240B2 Free-surface liquid transfer device for rotating machinery
A free-surface liquid transfer apparatus for rotating machinery includes a rotating member. The rotating member includes a main shaft defining a hollow inner cavity, an outer cylindrical wall defining a hollow annular cavity in fluid communication with the hollow inner cavity through a plurality of orifices formed on the main shaft, and a slinger formation in fluid communication with the hollow annular cavity through a plurality of radial slots formed through the slinger formation. A central axis of the main shaft, a central axis of the hollow annular cavity, and a central axis of the slinger formation are collinear, and the slinger formation is configured to transmit working fluid received through the plurality of radial slots outward as a continuous film having both tangential and radial velocity components.
US08506238B2 Water pump with housing/impeller to enhance seal performance
Systems and methods for improving seal performance in a centrifugal water pump for an internal combustion engine increase static pressure at the seal by incorporating a combination of slots and ribs into a seal cavity of the pump housing that are positioned to convert dynamic fluid pressure into static pressure at the seal while reducing coolant velocity at the seal. Vent holes in the impeller having an appropriate size and location may also be used to increase the static pressure at the seal to enhance seal performance.
US08506237B2 Radial-flow turbomachines having performance-enhancing features
A turbomachine that includes a radial-flow impeller and one or more of a variety of features that enhance the performance of machinery in which the turbomachine is used. For example, when the turbomachine is used in a dynamometer, the features enhance the useful shaft horsepower range of the dynamometer. One of the features is a variable-restriction intake that allows for adjusting flow rate to the impeller. Other features include a unique impeller shroud and a shroud guide each movable relative to the impeller. Yet another feature is an exhaust diffuser that facilitates an increase in the range of shaft power and the reduction of deleterious vibration and noise. The turbomachine can also include a unique impeller blade configuration that cooperates with the adjustable intake and the exhaust diffuser to enhance flow through the turbomachine.
US08506233B2 Axial turbine and method for discharging a flow from an axial turbine
An axial turbine (1) has a plurality of expansion stages (2) each defined by stator blades (13) and rotor blades. The expansion stages (2) are followed by an exhaust diffuser (4) for collecting the flow passing through the expansion stages (2) and discharging it to the outside. The expansion stages (2) and/or the diffuser (4) have at least a non-axial symmetric portion. The stator blades (13) define different openings (17) along the circumference of the turbine.
US08506231B2 Handler having position correcting function and method of loading uninspected device into measuring socket
A handler includes a device holding portion, which holds an uninspected device and loads the device in a measuring socket on a device tester, having a suction means for sucking the device by a very weak pushing force at the time of sucking the device from an uninspection tray and for loading the device in a measuring socket and also having a clamper capable of outputting a pushing force which can be changed at the time of the measurement contact. The device holding portion includes a position correcting mechanism for making a device position correction executed by an image recognizing and position correcting means.
US08506224B2 Captive panel fastener assembly
A fastener including a bolt and a grommet assembly attached to the bolt for fastening to a work piece. The grommet assembly includes an upper grommet, a lower grommet attached to the upper grommet, a retainer ring, and a housing that houses the retainer ring within the lower grommet. The upper grommet is inserted into a hole at one side of the work piece and the lower grommet is attached to the upper grommet through the hole at an opposite side of the work piece. The retainer ring is inserted into the lower grommet and encapsulated by the housing. The bolt is inserted into the grommet assembly, and the retainer ring engages the bolt such that a plurality of pressure pads extending from a plurality of corresponding spring beam elements of the retainer ring reside in an annular groove of the bolt. The grommet assembly captivates the bolt onto the work piece, while providing a positive hold out of the bolt.
US08506223B2 Low-profile cam locking threaded fastener
An low-profile cam locking fastener assembly in which a locking nut is connected to a locking washer through a tubular skirt that extends from the nut opening. The skirt and nut opening are coaxial having contiguous inner surfaces that are threaded to receive a bolt or stud. The washer is mounted to the skirt so as to be rotatable with respect to nut as well as axially movable to a position in which cooperating cam elements on opposing faces between the washer and the nut are separated. The cam elements are arranged so that when the nut and washer are fastened down to a bolt or stud on a workpiece, the cam elements engage one another to substantially prevent the nut from loosening from the threaded bolt/stud.
US08506218B2 Transporting tool for tower sections of a wind turbine
A transporting tool for tower transporting sections of wind turbine tower by railway, road and sea transport vehicles that includes a lower module, with bottom clamps and an upper module, with upper clamps, chocks mounted to the tower module, and fastening elements that combined allow anchoring the tower section, for transport.
US08506217B2 Auto-rack railroad car vehicle wheel chock
A vehicle wheel chock for a vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car which secures a vehicle in the auto-rack railroad car. The vehicle wheel chock is configured to be positioned on a grating adjacent to a tire of the vehicle.
US08506216B2 Horizontal machine tool
A horizontal machine tool (1) includes a base frame (10) where workpiece support faces (11c) for supporting a workpiece are formed at front portions; an X-axis saddle (20) attached to a back-face portion (12b) of the base frame (10) through an X-axis movement mechanism (50) universally slidably in a left-right direction; a Y-axis saddle (30) attached to the X-axis saddle (20) through a Y-axis movement mechanism (60) universally slidably in an up-down direction; and a spindle device (40) attached to the Y-axis saddle (30) through a Z-axis movement mechanism (70) universally slidably in a front-rear direction. According to this configuration, it is possible to make a whole of the horizontal machine tool a small size and lightweight and to enhance machining accuracy of the workpiece.
US08506215B2 Method of forming piston pin holes and boring system therefor
A piston pin hole boring system and method of forming pin holes therewith includes fixing a piston to a fixture supported by a slide member. Then, rotating a cutting member about a first axis and moving the slide member with the fixture thereon toward the cutting member along the first axis and bringing the piston into cutting contact with the cutting member. Further, moving the fixture along second and third axes, each extending transversely to the first axis and machining the desired pin hole contours in the piston with the cutting member.
US08506214B2 Method for machining bevel gears using an indexing method having complete indexing error compensation
The invention relates to an apparatus for machining bevel gears in an indexing method and method for machining the pitch of gears, wherein the production-related pitch error is compensated. The apparatus (20) comprises an interface (11, 12) and can be connected to a measurement system (10) by means of this interface (11, 12). The interface is designed such that the apparatus (20) can take correction values or correction factors from the measurement system (10) in a form in order to be able to adapt master data or neutral data. The data, which was originally present in a memory (51) of the apparatus (20), is corrected on the basis of these correction values or correction factors before production of one or more bevel gears (31) is initiated on the apparatus (20).
US08506212B2 Adjustable indexable drill
An adjustable drill has a drill body having a face surface with a directional feature provided therewith. At least one cartridge is mounted adjacent the face surface and selectively slidable along the directional feature to provide adjustment. At least one insert is releasably affixed in an insert pocket provided in the cartridge. In further examples, the adjustable drill may have a central cutting system in combination with the adjustable cartridge type system, wherein the central cutting system may be modular. There may also be provided a modular type of holder arrangement to provide flexibility to adapt the system for various applications.
US08506210B2 Material removal tool with actuated guide pads
A material removal tool including a housing body having an active portion, at least one seating surface for a cutting insert operatively positioned on the active portion, and a guide pad positioned in a cavity in a circumferential surface of the active portion is disclosed. The guide pad is radially adjustable between a first radial position and a second radial position by a differential pressure across the guide pad. The differential pressure is created by an actuation fluid supplied to one side of the guide pad. A method for removing material from a workpiece with the rotating material removal tool is also disclosed.
US08506208B2 Shim plate for milling tools for chip removing machining as well as a milling tool having such a shim plate
A shim plate for milling tools for chip removing machining, including an upperside, an underside, and at least one side surface extending between the upperside and the underside and forming an angle ≦90° with the upperside. A through hole includes a first section mouthing in the upperside, and a second section mouthing in the underside and having a diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the first section. The upperside at least partially transforms into the side surface via an edge portion configured to be an active auxiliary chip-removing cutting edge upon failure of a cooperating cutting insert. The edge portion includes a chamfer surface that forms an obtuse angle (δ) with the upperside.
US08506207B2 Helical screw pile
A helical screw pile includes a longitudinal shaft having a top end and a bottom end with a plurality of helical plates arranged on the shaft in increasing diameter from the top to the bottom. The first helical plate is located toward the bottom of the shaft and has the largest diameter. The second helical plate is located above the first helical plate and has a diameter smaller than that of the first plate. The third helical plate is located above the second helical plate and has a diameter smaller than that of the second plate. The helical plate with the smallest diameter is located toward the top of the shaft. The distance between the first helical plate and the second helical plate is larger than the distance between the second helical plate and the third helical plate.
US08506202B2 Constant velocity universal joint
A constant velocity universal joint having a recess-projection engagement configuration in which backlash at a shaft connecting region does not easily occur, and an inner joint component and a shaft can he firmly connected. hi the constant velocity universal joint, the inner joint component and the shaft (5) fitted into an axis hole (22) of the inner joint component are connected by die recess-projection engagement configuration. Engagement contacting regions (38) of projections (35) and recesses (36) corresponding thereto are in close contact over the whole region.
US08506201B2 Structural assemblies and preforms therefor formed by linear friction welding
A preform for use in forming a structural assembly is provided. The preform can be formed by linear friction welding structural members to a base member and friction welding each structural member to at least one of the other structural members. The resulting preform can be formed with dimensions and a configuration that approximate the dimensions and configuration of the structural assembly.
US08506199B2 Tie rod
A structural unit, e.g., a tie rod, that has a tube which is provided with an internal thread, on at least one surface thereof, which is threaded in a first rotational direction, and into the end of which a threaded sleeve is screwed. The threaded sleeve has an internal thread which is threaded in a second direction, opposite to the first rotational direction, and has a shank screwed into the sleeve. The entire threaded sleeve is accommodated within the tube, and the threaded sleeve has a coupling contour on the opening side of the tube. A method of applying the structural unit such that, by rotating the threaded sleeve within the tube, the shank and the tube are moved in opposite directions. In the method, the coupling contour of the threaded sleeve serves to introduce the torque required for rotational motion of the threaded sleeve by way of a tool or an adapter.
US08506198B2 Self aligning coupling for mixing system
A shaft coupling assembly includes a hub bounding an opening. The interior surface of the hub includes an annular coupling surface and a receiving surface, the receiving surface sloping away from opening. An alignment rib projects from the receiving surface into the opening. An elongated shaft includes a driver that is configured to be received within the opening of the hub. The driver has an exterior surface that includes an annular engaging surface, a guide surface, and a guide rib radially, outwardly projecting from the guide surface. The guide rib is configured such that when the driver is being inserted within the opening with the guide rib being aligned with the alignment rib, the guide rib contacts the alignment rib so that the guide rib must be offset from the alignment rib before the driver can be fully received within the opening.
US08506193B1 Cosmetic fluid dispenser
A cosmetic fluid dispenser, comprising in combination a vertically elongated housing structure containing upper and lower compartments, the lower compartment configured to receive and store cosmetic fluid; a dispenser tube projecting vertically from the lower interior of the lower compartment, upwardly into the upper compartment; a plunger movable vertically in the housing, the housing structure including a rotor rotatable to drive the plunger downwardly for effecting fluid displacement into and upwardly in the dispenser tube; and a valve for preventing inadvertent leakage of fluid from the tube, and characterized as openable in response to use of the dispenser.
US08506190B2 Cutter mechanism and printer with a cutter
A cutter mechanism has a fixed blade and slidable blade which cooperates with the fixed blade to cut a recording sheet. The fixed blade is biased in a direction away from a base portion by a biasing member. A holder supports the fixed blade away from the base portion to cause a cutting edge of the fixed blade to swing up and down and permit opposite ends of the fixed blade to be pushed down at least in the direction of the base portion. The fixed blade holder has a wall portion positioning the fixed blade in a sliding direction of the slidable blade, a first regulating member that regulates lifting of the fixed blade cutting edge, and a second regulating member that regulates lifting of the fixed blade root portion in a state in which a gap is formed between the base portion and the root portion.
US08506187B2 Printing apparatus including plural printheads and a drive mechanism for the platen rollers
A thermal printer includes a first thermal head, a first platen roller, first biasing means, a second thermal head, a second platen roller, and second biasing means. The first thermal head, the first platen roller, the first biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of thermal recording paper. The second thermal head, the second platen roller, and the second biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of the thermal recording paper. The second thermal head is arranged on the upstream side of the first thermal head in a paper feed direction. A paper feed speed of the first platen roller to the thermal recording paper is larger than a paper feed speed of the second platen roller. The first platen roller is in contact with the thermal recording paper while being more slippery compared with the second platen roller.
US08506184B2 Shutter apparatus, image sensing apparatus, and shutter control method
A shutter apparatus mounted in an image sensing apparatus, the shutter apparatus comprising: a blade member configured to open/close an opening through which light from an object passes, and control an aperture area of the opening; and a driving unit capable of first and second driving controls, the first driving control driving the blade member to serve as a stop, and the second driving control driving the blade member to serve as a shutter, wherein when the object is captured by an image sensor, the driving unit temporarily drives the blade member in an opening direction from a first position, to which the blade member is driven in a closing direction to serve as a stop, and then activates the blade member to a fully closing position.
US08506182B2 Stabilized stereographic camera system
A stabilized stereographic camera system may include an upright support having a longitudinal axis. A camera support coupled to one end of the upright support may mount first and second cameras, the first camera movable with respect to the second cameras. A ballast may be coupled to another end of the upright support. A balance mechanism may move a movable portion of the stereographic camera system relative to the upright support in response to movement of the first camera with respect to the second camera to maintain a constant weight distribution of the stereographic camera system.
US08506179B2 Deformable plastic radially symmetric mechanical splicers and connectors for optical fibers
Radially symmetric splicer joint and locking assemblies and connectors for optical fibers are provided. The assemblies use splicer joints formed from a slightly deformable plastic material. The splicer joints contain an axial bore having a diameter slightly less then the diameter of the stripped ends the optical fibers inserted into the axial bore. When a stripped fiber is inserted into the axial bore of the splicer joint, the bore expands slightly to frictionally receive the stripped end. The assemblies and connectors use radially symmetric locking to secure the fibers therein. The radially symmetric locking and the surface tension provided by the axial bore against the stripped ends of the fibers minimizes the occurrence of mis-alignment and reduces insertion and return losses.
US08506177B2 Cable assembly with elecrical and optical transmitting
An cable assembly (100) includes an insulative housing (1); a plurality of terminals (212, 222) received in the insulative housing; a plurality of lenses (81); a photoelectric conversion device (93); and a cable (6) including first fibers (63) and second fibers (65), the first fibers connected to photoelectric conversion device which further connected to the terminals, the second fibers connected to the lenses, respectively.
US08506175B2 Optical waveguide board
An optical waveguide board includes: an optical waveguide configured to transmit an optical signal to and from a light receiving element and a light emitting element; wiring patterns that are electrically connected with the light receiving and emitting elements, respectively; and supporting members disposed on the wiring patterns on sides of end parts of the optical waveguide, the supporting members supporting the light receiving and emitting elements, respectively; wherein each of the supporting members includes: a conduction portion that electrically connects a corresponding one of the light receiving and emitting elements and the wiring pattern; and a smooth surface configured to reflect the optical signal appearing between the corresponding one of the light receiving and emitting elements and the optical waveguide.
US08506170B2 Bearing mounted isolator seal
A bearing is disclosed comprising an inner ring concentrically disposed with an outer ring with rotational elements therebetween adapted for allowing rotational movement of the inner ring relative to the outer ring. A relatively non-resilient isolator seal is mounted to the bearing.
US08506167B2 Dynamic bearing device having a thrust bearing portion
The present invention has an object of improving wear resistance of a thrust bearing portion. A pressure is generated by a dynamic pressure effect of a lubricating oil in a thrust bearing gap between a thrust bearing surface including dynamic pressure generating grooves and a smooth thrust receiving surface so as to rotatably support a shaft member in an axial direction. The thrust receiving surface is formed as a flat surface, whereas an inclined plane is provided on the thrust bearing surface so as to provide a reduced portion having a decreasing axial width in a radially outward direction in the thrust bearing gap.
US08506162B2 Disposable, pre-calibrated, pre-validated sensors for use in bio-processing applications
Disposable, pre-sterilized, and pre-calibrated, pre-validated conductivity sensors are provided. These sensors are designed to store sensor-specific information, such as calibration and production information, in a non-volatile memory chip on the sensor on in a barcode printed on the sensor. The sensors are calibrated using 0.100 molar potassium chloride (KCl) solutions at 25 degrees Celsius. These sensors may be utilize with in-line systems, closed fluid circuits, bioprocessing systems, or systems which require an aseptic environment while avoiding or reducing cleaning procedures and quality assurance variances.
US08506158B2 Watch
A watch having a band formed from a bistable spring is described. The band automatically wraps to or coils around a wrist, arm, or other limb of an individual wearing the watch. The band is formed from the bistable spring, which includes an extended configuration and a coiled configuration. The band forms a first portion and a second portion. An outer layer covers at least a portion of the bistable spring. The watch includes a watch module to display time data. A housing receives the watch module. The housing is integral with the outer layer. The housing is positioned between the first portion and the second portion of the band.
US08506155B2 Pre-aggregate drying method and energy efficient asphalt plant
An HMA plant which uses incidental heating of metal surfaces in combination with hot exhaust gases to pre-heat and pre-dry virgin aggregate material contained in an enclosed container which permits hot dry air to pass through interstices in the virgin aggregate material stored in the container.
US08506153B2 Light guide panel and back light module thereof
The invention relates to an LGP and a back light module thereof, wherein the LGP comprises a light input surface, a bottom surface and a light output surface opposite to the bottom surface, and is characterized in that the bottom surface and/or the light output surface is provided with a plurality of microstructures, distribution rules for microstructures along the direction parallel to the light input surface of the LGP are: the microstructures in the middle of the LGP are closely arranged, and the microstructures on the two sides are sparsely arranged. In the LGP provided in the invention, the light output in the direction parallel to the light input surface can reach the brightness distribution with high middle and low edges, thereby achieving higher efficiency of light energy utilization.
US08506150B2 Backlight device and display apparatus
According to one embodiment, a backlight device includes a light source, a light guide plate, a light beam controller, and a directivity control element. The light guide plate is formed with plural diffusion portions that diffuse light from the light source. The light beam controller is configured to emit plural linear light beams. The directivity control element has plural optical openings. The optical openings extend in a second direction and are arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the second direction. The light beam controller emits the linear light beams that extend in a third direction tilted with respect to the second direction. The light guide plate has a first region in which the diffusion portions are formed in the third direction and a second region in which no diffusion portions are formed, the first region and the second region being arranged alternately in the first direction.
US08506142B2 Resettable break-away joint for a pole assembly
A resettable break-away joint for a pole assembly includes a lower end of an upper pole member and an upper end of a lower pole member. A biasing mechanism urges the lower end of the upper pole member toward engagement with the upper end of the lower pole member to urge the upper pole member toward an upright position until the upper pole member is moved to a collapsed position.
US08506133B2 Lighting device
A compact LED lamp (1) is provided with a holder (20), an LED module (10) mounted on the holder (20), and a globe (70) covering the LED module (10). The holder (20) has a groove (21) surrounding the LED module (10) at a top surface (24a) of the holder (20), with a rim (70a) of the globe (70) inserted in the groove (21). When comparing an edge (D1) and an edge (D2) along a side wall (24c) of the groove (21), the edge (D1) is closer to an opening of the groove, and the edge (D2) is closer to a bottom of the groove. The edge (D2) is more recessed than the edge (D1) in a direction perpendicular to a direction of depth of the groove. Furthermore, the groove (21) has through-holes (22) at part of a bottom surface (24d) of the groove (21) to connect to a back surface (24b) of the holder (20). The groove (21) and the through-holes (22) are filled with adhesive (80).
US08506132B2 Method and apparatus for creating high efficiency radial circular lighting distributions from a hemispherical lambertian source
A ring generating LED lamp includes a lens section which employs internal reflection to direct the light energy from a hemispherical emitter into a ring shaped output distribution. The ring shaped distribution projects above and below the plane of the LED source. The lens has multiple internal surfaces that direct light from the LED source to provide a ring shaped output distribution.
US08506130B2 Optical element for a light emitting device and a method of manufacturing thereof
The present invention relates to an optical element for a light emitting device, wherein the optical element comprises a sintered ceramic body (3) comprising a wavelength converting layer (4) and a scattering layer (5), and to a method of manufacturing thereof. More specifically, the invention relates to an optical element, comprising a sintered ceramic body (3) of a first layer (4) and a second layer (5) arranged on the first layer, wherein the first layer comprises a wavelength converting material, the porosity of the second layer is higher than the porosity of the first layer, and pores in the second layer are arranged to provide scattering of a light beam. The method for manufacturing of the optical element comprises providing a green body comprising a first layer of a first material and a second layer of a second material; and co-sintering said layers into a sintered ceramic body; the compositions of the first and second layer are adapted such that after sintering, the porosity of the second layer is higher than the porosity of the first layer, and pores in said second layer are arranged to provide scattering of a light beam.
US08506127B2 Lens frame with a LED support surface and heat dissipating structure
A lens frame for mounting and cooling LEDs is described. The lens frame (120) may be continuous and attachable to a luminaire (100) having a luminaire housing (110) with an opening (112). The lens frame (120) may extend across and close the opening (112) of the luminaire housing (110). The lens frame (120) may include a recessed support surface (122), a lens attachment area (126) positioned outward from and peripherally of the support surface (122), and heat dissipating structure (130) located peripherally of the support surface (122). A plurality of LEDs (154) may be coupled to the support surface (122) of the lens frame (120) exteriorly of the luminaire housing (110) and a lens (188) may be coupled to the lens retaining area (126) of the lens frame (120).
US08506126B2 Retrofit LED lamp assembly for sealed optical lamps
A retrofit LED lamp assembly for the replacement of light bulbs in optical lamps mounted elevated on support posts is described. The optical lamps have a lamp housing with a reflector secured therein and supporting a light bulb. A glass shade projects the light. The retrofit LED lamp assembly has a support member on which light emitting diodes (LED's) are electrically insulatingly supported to replace the light bulb. An adjustable connection assembly is provided to secure the support member to the reflector. The support member is configured to position the LED's at a predetermined angle and orientation relative to configured reflective surface segments of the reflector whereby to produce a desired oriented photometric light distribution pattern. A heat sink is securable in contact with the support member to dissipate heat. A clear tempered glass lens replaces the glass shade.
US08506124B2 Light-emitting device and method
A light-emitting method is provided. The light-emitting method is applied in a light-emitting device. The light-emitting device includes an emitting member to emit light. The light-emitting method includes detecting an air pressure of the light-emitting device and controlling the emitting member to emit light with color and luminance value according to the detected air pressure. A related light-emitting device is also provided.
US08506122B2 Lens and light emitting apparatus having the same
Provided is a light emitting apparatus. The light emitting apparatus comprises a substrate; a light emitting device package on the substrate; and a lens supported by the substrate, the lens being disposed on the light emitting device package, wherein the lens comprises a lens body having a first recess at a central portion of a top surface thereof, a second recess at a central portion of a bottom surface thereof, and a lens support disposed on the bottom surface of the lens body to support the lens body such that the bottom surface of the lens body is spaced apart from the substrate.
US08506120B2 Adapter with at least one electronic component
An adapter (1) with at least one electronic component (2) for mounting in a hole (3) extending through or partly through a composite board (4), which includes at least two layers (5) of electrically conducting material that are separated by at least one insulator (6) of electrically insulating material, the adapter (1) including one or more legs (7) adapted for by mounting in the hole (2) to establish electric connection with a first layer (8), and where the at least one component (2) is fitted on a metal item (9) which has a contact surface, and that the contact surface is in electrically and thermally conducting connecting with a contact surface on a second layer (10) when the adapter (1) is mounted in the hole (3).
US08506119B2 Efficient, uniform, and dimmable sign or display illumination methods using overlapped LED modules on a raised grid platform
Concepts for increasing brightness and uniformity and providing dimming for LED-illuminated signs and display are disclosed. Substantial increase in brightness is achieved via reducing the distance between LED modules and the sign or display they illuminate by placing the LEDs on a raised grid platform constructed with a plurality of intersecting plates. Whenever two plates intersect, a “grid-node” is formed, creating a plurality of intersections and grid nodes in a two-dimensional array. On each grid-node, two distinct and electrically isolated LED sub-modules are placed. By connecting all LED sub-modules parallel to one dimension (e.g., X-axis) in one series, and all LED sub-modules parallel to the other dimension (e.g., Y-axis) in another series, two electrically isolated LED series are created. Lighting up both series provide maximum brightness and good uniformity; lighting up only one series allows dimming for illuminated signs or displays without any drive current adjustment.
US08506118B2 Light fixture and associated LED board and monolithic optic
An embodiment of the invention is directed to a light fixture useful for area lighting. The light fixture includes a housing having a base and a top, and a light emitting diode (LED) light emission module disposed within the housing. The light emission module includes a centrally disposed aperture that receives a centrally disposed power lead for powering the light emission module.
US08506117B2 LED illumination device having reflector for producing required light pattern
An LED illumination device includes a polygonal reflector and a plurality of LEDs received in the reflector. The reflector includes multiple sidewalls connecting with each other. Each LED is located adjacent to at least one corresponding neighboring sidewall. The polygonal reflector can have a shape of a square, a rectangle, an octagon etc. Light generated by the LEDs has at least a part reflected by the reflector to radiate out of the LED illumination device upwardly. The LED is a top view LED. A top of an LED die of the LED is no higher than a bottom of the sidewalls of the reflector.
US08506115B2 Method and apparatus for delivering visual information
An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters. The illumination system further includes landscape lights that are in communication with the control module and the information display device, such that the landscape lights may phase with the information display device, thereby providing a unified phasing effect.
US08506114B2 Lighting devices, methods of lighting, light filters and methods of filtering light
A lighting device comprising a white light source, a filter which filters blue light from the white light, and a second light source which emits red light and/or reddish-orange light. In some embodiments, the white light source comprises a solid state light emitter. A method of lighting, comprising illuminating a white light source, illuminating a red and/or reddish-orange light source, the light sources being positioned and oriented such that the light mixes, and filtering blue light from the mixed light. A method of lighting, comprising illuminating a white light source, filtering blue light from the white light, and illuminating a red and/or reddish-orange light source. A light filter, comprising a first filter component which has a wall region and a window region, and a second filter component comprising two or more reflection regions. Also, methods of filtering.
US08506112B1 Illumination devices including multiple light emitting elements
A variety of illumination devices are disclosed that are configured to manipulate light provided by one or more light-emitting elements (LEEs). In general, embodiments of the illumination devices feature one or more optical couplers that redirect illumination from the LEEs to a reflector which then directs the light into a range of angles. In some embodiments, the illumination device includes a second reflector that reflects at least some of the light from the first reflector. In certain embodiments, the illumination device includes a light guide that guides light from the collector to the first reflector. The components of the illumination device can be configured to provide illumination devices that can provide a variety of intensity distributions. Such illumination devices can be configured to provide light for particular lighting applications, including office lighting, task lighting, cabinet lighting, garage lighting, wall wash, stack lighting, and downlighting.
US08506100B2 Hat brim with rearview mirrors
Rear view mirrors for use with a brim of a hat. Telescopic arms extend from the brim and are pivotable and swivelable from a central ball joint and have rear view mirrors disposed on the distal ends thereof that are pivotable and swivelable on the ball joints that transition from the distal end of the telescopic arms and the rear view mirrors. The rear view mirrors and telescopic arms are articulated by the user to provide the desired field of vision behind the user.
US08506099B1 Portable, adjustable mirror stand
A freestanding portable holding apparatus for a handheld mirror comprises a base which ensures stability and a center-mounted pole extending upward from the base having a height adjustment mechanism that allows the pole to be extended upwards or downwards as desired by the user. An upper end of the apparatus is provided with an adjustable clip to hold a variety of handheld mirrors in an inverted fashion. It is adjustable in height so that a user can see the rear of their head while looking in another stationary mirror. This feature affords the user the use of both hands while styling hair without having to constantly switch and move the handheld mirror in one hand.
US08506096B2 Variable reflectance mirror reflective element for exterior mirror assembly
A variable reflectance mirror reflective element includes a front substrate and a rear substrate and an electrochromic medium disposed therebetween, with no part of the rear substrate extending beyond any part of the front substrate. A mirror reflector is disposed at a third surface of the rear substrate and includes a stack of thin films having at least one metal thin film. A perimeter layer is disposed at a second surface of the front substrate proximate a perimeter edge of the front substrate and generally conceals the perimeter seal from view by a person viewing through the front substrate. Light that reflects off of the mirror reflector and passes through the electrochromic medium and the front substrate has a substantially untinted reflectant characteristic to a person viewing the mirror reflective element when no voltage is applied to the electrochromic medium.
US08506091B2 Illumination apparatus and projection apparatus
An illumination apparatus including a first light emitting device, a first phosphor layer, a second light emitting device and a second phosphor layer and a beam combining element is provided. The first light emitting device is capable of providing a first light beam and the first phosphor layer is disposed on the transmission path of the first light beam. The second light emitting device is disposed opposite to the first light emitting device and for providing a second light beam, wherein the second phosphor layer is disposed on the transmission path of the second light beam. The beam combining element is disposed between the first phosphor layer and the second phosphor layer. In addition, the invention also provides a projection apparatus.
US08506084B2 Method for checking and/or determining user data, a computer program product, and an apparatus
The present invention relates in summary to a method for checking and/or determining user data of a spectacle lens user comprising providing subjective data of a spectacle lens user, wherein the subjective data comprise at least subjective refraction data, providing objective refraction data of the spectacle lens user, comparing at least one subset of the subjective refraction data with at least one subset of the objective refraction data and determining a comparison result, matching at least the subset of the subjective refraction data to the objective refraction data on the basis of the comparison result under the assumption that the comparison result fulfills at least one predetermined comparison condition, otherwise maintaining at least the subset of the subjective refraction data and/or providing a message containing the comparison result, and to a further method, a computer program product and two devices for checking and/or determining user data.
US08506083B2 Compact wavefront sensor module and its attachment to or integration with an ophthalmic instrument
One embodiment disclosed is a compact wavefront sensor module to be attached to or integrated with an ophthalmic instrument for eye examination and/or vision correction procedures. The front lens for relaying the wavefront from the eye to a wavefront sampling plane is positioned at the optical input port of the wavefront sensor module. The front lens is shared by the wavefront sensor and the ophthalmic instrument, and the wavefront sensor module can be made very compact while still being able to cover a large eye wavefront measurement diopter range.Another embodiment disclosed is an ophthalmic device for measuring properties of a subject eye including an ophthalmic instrument integrated with the wavefront sensor module.
US08506082B2 Ophthalmic apparatus, adaptive optical system, and image generating apparatus
An ophthalmic apparatus includes an aberration correction unit which corrects aberration occurring in light irradiating an eye to be examined; and a common optical system which is commonly provided for an optical path of irradiated light on the aberration correction unit and an optical path of reflected light from the aberration correction unit. The common optical system includes at least one optical element, and areas through which the irradiated light and the reflected light respectively pass overlap each other on the optical element.
US08506078B2 Method for determining at least one geometric postural parameter when fitting a corrective spectacle frame on the face of a wearer in the anatomical posture thereof
A method includes: a) defining position-identification elements for identifying the position of a first frame of reference associated with a wearer's head in a second frame of reference associated with an image-capture device and for identifying the angle of inclination of the first frame of reference in the sagittal plane of the wearer's head about a center of rotation of the head; b) capturing a series of at least two images of the wearer's head; c) determining, in the second frame of reference, a position of the center of rotation; d) identifying, in each image, the image of a first anatomical point of the wearer's face; e) determining, in each image, the angle of inclination relative to a reference plane of an anatomical plane that is perpendicular to the sagittal plane and that contains the center of rotation and the first anatomical point; f) comparing the angle with a predetermined value; and g) determining the geometrical-and-postural parameter as a function of the comparison.
US08506077B2 Method for measuring visual function and visual attention in a continuous performance test
The invention comprises a neuropsychological test method designed to measure a test subject's variables of visual attention for stimuli believed to preferentially elicit specific visual pathways. Target visual pathways include the magnocellular on/off, parvocellular chromatic red/green, koniocellular blue/yellow, and parvocellular achromatic pathways. Furthermore, the invention computes differential measures between the different stimuli types for diagnostic value. These computations include, but are not limited to, measures believed to elicit non-linear contrast gain control, on versus off pathways, and changes in performance over time. The test displays both target and noise (non-target) stimuli with different apriori probabilities at different stages of the test. The test can capture and analyze physiological measures, isoluminant points and critical flicker fusion points. In accordance with the present invention, a novel method and system called the “Variable Contrast Continuous Performance Test (VC-CPT)” is provided.
US08506075B2 Ophthalmic lens with multiple phase plates
An ophthalmic lens for providing a plurality of foci includes an optic having an anterior surface, a posterior surface, and an optical axis. The ophthalmic lens has a first region and a second region. The first region has a first refractive optical power and includes a first base curvature having a finite radius of curvature and a first phase plate having at least one diffraction order with a diffractive optical power. The first region is configured for forming a first focus and a second focus. The second region has a second refractive optical power and includes a second base curvature having a finite second radius of curvature that is different from the first radius of curvature and a second phase plate having at least one diffraction order with a diffractive optical power.
US08506074B2 Ophthalmic lens and spectacles comprising at least such one lens
Ophthalmic lens including at least one spherical face with an optical center and a geometrical center, and having in succession a top vision region, an intermediate vision region and a bottom vision region, with a principal meridian of progression traversing the three vision regions of the aspherical face, the lens being noteworthy in that the top vision region is adapted for mid-distance vision, the bottom vision region is adapted for near-distance vision, and the intermediate vision region is adapted for intermediate distance vision, and in that the optical center of the aspherical face is in the intermediate vision region, the optical center coinciding with the geometrical center of aspherical face. This lens is particularly suitable for people with emmetropic longsightedness.
US08506069B2 Inkjet ink set, and image forming method
The present invention provides a an inkjet ink set including a fixing agent liquid which includes a cationic polymer and an acidic precipitant; and an ink which includes a water-based medium, a pigment having a first anionic polymer covalently bonded thereto, and a second anionic polymer, wherein the second anionic polymer is insoluble in the water-based medium.
US08506062B2 Time limited printing method and device
A method of printing a time limited document is disclosed. The method includes the steps of selecting an ink having a fading time, and printing the time limited document using the selected ink. A printer and associated cartridge are also disclosed.
US08506061B2 Method and apparatus for purging and supplying ink to an inkjet printing apparatus
An ink delivery system is configured to supply ink to an ink reservoir fluidly coupled to inkjet ejectors and remove ink from a receptacle mounted proximate to the ink reservoir using a single conduit. The ink reservoir is configured to prevent air from being pulled through a reservoir membrane, and a reversible pump is configured to produce positive and negative pressure in the conduit to supply ink to the ink reservoir and remove ink from the receptacle, respectively.
US08506060B2 Ink supply device for inkjet printer and inkjet printer
An ink supply device for an inkjet printer includes a sub-tank and a main tank. The sub-tank has an ink chamber to store liquid ink and is connected to a print head configured to eject the liquid ink via a head-side supply passage. The sub-tank has a plurality of supply holes which connect the ink chamber and the head-side supply passage. At least two of the plurality of supply holes have their openings on the ink chamber side formed at different heights. The main tank is connected to the sub-tank and contains the liquid ink to be supplied to the ink chamber.
US08506058B2 Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric element
A liquid ejecting head includes a pressure generating chamber communicating with a nozzle for ejecting liquid droplets and a piezoelectric element having a piezoelectric layer and a pair of electrodes disposed on both sides of the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric layer is made of a perovskite-type oxide containing barium titanate, calcium titanate, and europium oxide.
US08506052B2 Inkjet nozzle assembly with drop directionality control via independently actuable roof paddles
An inkjet nozzle assembly having: a nozzle chamber for containing ink, the nozzle chamber including a floor and a roof having a nozzle opening defined therein; and a plurality of moveable paddles defining part of the roof. The plurality of paddles are actuable to cause ejection of an ink droplet from the nozzle opening. Each paddle includes a thermal bend actuator, and each actuator is independently controllable via respective drive circuitry such that a direction of droplet ejection from the nozzle opening is controllable by independent movement of each paddle.
US08506047B2 Device for positioning at least one print bar in a printing position in an inkjet printing apparatus
In a print bar system or method in which at least one print bar is positioned in a printing position, first and second drive and guidance units are provided for the print bar and which each have an adjustable guidance unit and a first coupling unit. The print bar has print bar receptacles with adjustable positioning pins. The guidance units and the print bar receptacles are designed such that upon insertion of the print bar into the drive and guidance units the print bar receptacles rest in a floating bearing on the guidance units and are centered and arrested after displacement of the guidance units in the drive and guidance units such that the print bar is positioned into the printing position in the drive and guidance units and wherein the positioning pins engage in the first coupling units.
US08506045B2 Inkjet head cleaning apparatus and method
According to an example embodiment, an inkjet head cleaning apparatus that removes ink residue from an inkjet head after a purging operation in a non-contact manner includes a cleaning blade and a drive unit. The cleaning blade is at a distance from a bottom of the inkjet head. The drive unit is configured to move the cleaning blade in a direction parallel to the inkjet head bottom. The cleaning blade includes a flat upper surface parallel to the inkjet head bottom, and an ink film is produced between the flat upper surface of the cleaning blade and the inkjet head bottom. The cleaning blade also includes an elongated groove longitudinally in the upper surface of the cleaning blade.
US08506042B2 Modular printhead with a plurality of printhead modules
A modular printhead is disclosed which includes an elongate channel and a plurality of printhead modules. The printhead modules are received in the elongate channel. Each printhead module has a carrier, an elongate ink delivery member mounted in the carrier and a printhead. The elongate ink delivery member defines longitudinal conduits, each conduit carrying a respective ink. The elongate ink delivery member further defines sets of apertures, each set of apertures including apertures which are each in register with a corresponding conduit. The printhead includes inkjet nozzles, each inkjet nozzle being in fluid communication with a respective conduit.
US08506040B2 Solid ink compositions comprising crystalline-amorphous mixtures
A solid ink composition comprising an amorphous component, a crystalline material, and optionally, a colorant, which are suitable for ink jet printing, including printing on coated paper substrates. In embodiments, the solid ink formulation comprises a blend of an amorphous and crystalline components which provides a solid ink with excellent robustness when forming images or printing on coated paper substrates.
US08506039B2 Flow-through ejection system including compliant membrane transducer
A liquid dispenser includes a substrate. A first portion of the substrate defines a liquid dispensing channel including an outlet opening. A second portion of the substrate defines a liquid supply channel and a liquid return channel. A liquid supply provides a continuous flow of liquid from the liquid supply through the liquid supply channel through the liquid dispensing channel through the liquid return channel and back to the liquid supply. A diverter member, positioned on a wall of the liquid dispensing channel that includes the outlet opening, is selectively actuatable to divert a portion of the liquid flowing through the liquid dispensing channel through outlet opening of the liquid dispensing channel. The diverter member includes a MEMS transducing member anchored to the wall of the liquid dispensing channel. A compliant membrane is positioned in contact with the MEMS transducing member.
US08506036B2 Inline calibration of clear ink drop mass
An imaging device includes a plurality of ink jets that eject drops of substantially clear ink onto print media. One of the print media and the substantially clear ink has a fluorescent characteristic and the other of the print media and the substantially clear ink is substantially non-fluorescent. The imaging device includes a fluorescence sensor that illuminates the print media and detects a fluorescence intensity of light received from the print media alone and from the print media and the drops of substantially clear ink ejected onto the media. A controller modifies an operating parameter of the imaging device with reference to ink drop masses identified with reference to the detected fluorescent intensities.