| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08512104B2 |
Hand-held power tool, in particular hand-guided grinding machine
A protective guard is provided for a hand-held power tool, in particular a hand-guided grinding machine. According to the invention, the tool is at least partially covered by the protective guard. The guard is supported in an elastically flexible fashion in the circumference direction of the bearing journal by means of a spring means that prestress locking elements of a locking mechanism in their engaged positions. |
| US08512103B2 |
Cutting tool sharpener
A tool sharpening assembly (100) suitable for sharpening cutting tools (140,350,366,546,562). In some embodiments, a wedge-shaped port is formed between a rotational first abrasive surface (160,262) and a stationary second abrasive surface (162,264) to sharpen a distal cutting edge (146) of a cutting tool (140,230,546). In other embodiments, a cooling mechanism (136,326,330,334,338) actively draws heat generated during a sharpening operation from a tool (140) and through a tool support structure (170,234,328,332) contactingly supporting the tool, in further embodiments, a rotatable abrasive slotted disc (364) comprises at least one inspection aperture (372) formed from an interior sidewall (390) with upper and lower leading and trailing edges (396,398,400,402) of non-uniform separation distance. In other embodiments, a cylindrical drum abrasive member (572) is provided with an associated stationary support plate (574). In further embodiments, a grinding wheel (580,600) is formed of a substrate (582,602) and a plurality of abrasive layers (584,586,592,612,614) adhered thereto. |
| US08512102B2 |
Sandblasting apparatus
A sandblasting apparatus includes a chamber defining a cavity, a support assembly received in the cavity, a first and a second sandblasting assemblies. The support assembly includes a number of pairs of elongated support plates for holding a plate-shaped workpiece therebetween. The support plates are moveable along a vertical direction and a first horizontal direction. The first sandblasting assembly is configured for spraying sand downwardly toward the plate-shaped workpiece so as to cut the plate-shaped workpiece into a number of workpiece strips. The second sandblasting assembly is configured for spraying sand toward the workpiece strips along a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction so as to cut the workpiece strips into workpiece blocks. The support plates are configured to rotate the workpiece blocks, and the second sandblasting assembly is further configured for processing the workpiece blocks into cylindrical workpieces while the support plates rotate the workpiece blocks. |
| US08512100B2 |
Abrasive tape, method for producing abrasive tape, and varnishing process
There are provided an abrasive tape capable of suppressing contamination of a magnetic disk due to shattered abrasive particles and smoothing the surface of the magnetic disk; a method for producing an abrasive tape; and a varnishing process. An abrasive tape 1 produced according to the method for producing an abrasive tape of the invention is used in a process for varnishing a magnetic disk and produced according to a process for preparing a slurry by kneading and dispersing abrasive particles 5 and a binding agent 6; a process for forming a coating film by applying the slurry on a support 2; a process for forming an abrasive particle layer 3 by hardening the coating film; and a process for forming a coating layer 4 on the surface of the abrasive particle layer 3. |
| US08512099B2 |
Method for the simultaneous double-sided material removal processing of a plurality of semiconductor wafers
A device for double-sided processing of flat workpieces has upper and lower working discs forming between them a working gap containing a carrier disc with cutout(s) for workpiece(s), the carrier disc having circumferential teeth by means of which it rolls on an inner and an outer gear wheel or pin ring, wherein the gear wheels or pin rings have a multiplicity of gear or pin arrangements which engage the teeth of the carrier discs during rolling, at least one of the pin arrangements having a guide which delimits movement of the margin of the carrier disc in at least one axial direction, the guide formed by a circumferential shoulder or a circumferential groove. |
| US08512098B1 |
Machining technique using a plated superabrasive grinding wheel on a swiss style screw machine
A material working process using a plated superabrasive grinding wheel having a superabrasive plating applied to a circumferential surface of a cylindrically shaped core. The plating is applied to at least a lower portion of a circumferential surface of the core continuing around a lower edge of the core and along a circumferential edge of a bottom surface of the core. The superabrasive grinding wheel is utilized by a Swiss style screw machine for abrading a raw bar stock. The grinding wheel is rotated abrading the raw bar stock as the stock is advanced along a longitudinal axis. The bar stock can be rotationally stationary to form a planar surface or rotating to form an arched surface. A machining lubricant is applied to the working interface for lubrication and cooling. The stationary work piece can be indexed to form repeated planar surfaces having various angles therebetween. |
| US08512096B2 |
System for removing material from components
A system for performing a polishing operation on a component is disclosed, the system comprising a robot, a fixture, a mount system for attaching the fixture to a robotic arm and a drive system mounted on the fixture for driving a polishing tool such that the location of the point of contact of the polishing tool with respect to the component is maintained constant during the polishing operation. |
| US08512092B2 |
Method of engaging pieces and parts of toy systems
A method of attaching a piece having an opening onto a part in a toy system by positioning the part adjacent the opening, pushing on the part inserting it into the opening, and releasing the part allowing the piece to be picked up by and retained on the part. In a toy system in which the part is an upper one of two generally elongated parts, the other being a lower part, that telescope axially against a bias, the biased apart parts are positioned adjacent the opening with the lower part proximate and pointed toward the opening and the upper part away from the opening. Pushing on the upper part telescopes it against the bias over the lower part and inserts the upper part into the opening. Releasing the parts allows the bias to move the parts apart with the piece picked up by and retained on the upper part. |
| US08512091B2 |
Valve and retainer assembly for latex balloons
A valve and retainer assembly particularly useful for latex balloons includes a valve body and a band valve. The valve body has a radial shoulder where the neck and mouth of a latex balloon may be received to affix the balloon to the valve body. A hollow stem communicates with the radial shoulder, and a one-way valve allows gas to be introduced through the stem into the balloon affixed to the retainer portion. A valve and retainer for filling first and second balloons further includes a slide disk having a seal sleeve that intimately fits over the stem portion, such that the sealing slide disk selectively slides along the stem portion so that the seal sleeve can selectively cover the at least one second balloon fill aperture; and a flexible band covering the at least one fill aperture of the fill portion. |
| US08512090B2 |
Method for making field emission cathode device
A method for making a field emission cathode device is provided. A filler, a substrate, and a metal plate are provided. The metal plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and defines at least one through hole extending through from the first surface to the second surface. At least one electron emitter is inserted into the at least one through hole. The first surface of the metal plate is attached to the substrate. At least a part of the at least one electron emitter is located between the first surface and the substrate. The at least one through hole is filled with the filler to firmly fix the at least one electron emitter. |
| US08512089B2 |
Floatable unit for evacuation purposes
The present invention relates to a floatable unit for evacuation purposes, which in a storage situation comprises at least two shells made of rigid or semi-rigid material, said shells being adapted to accommodate a deflated structure. Said deflated structure of the unit, during an evacuation situation, is inflated and the shells are attached to the inflated structure whereby the shells operate as hull parts for the floatable unit. |
| US08512085B1 |
Tie bar apparatuses for marine vessels
A tie bar apparatus is for a marine vessel having at least first and second marine drives. The tie bar apparatus comprises a linkage that is geometrically configured to connect the first and second marine drives together so that during turning movements of the marine vessel, the first and second marine drives steer about respective first and second vertical steering axes at different angles, respectively. |
| US08512084B1 |
Underwater thruster
An underwater thruster includes a housing unit having a first opening, a cover unit connected to the housing unit and covering the first opening, a supporting unit connected to the housing unit, a motor having a driving shaft that extends through the first opening, a magnetic core unit connected to the driving shaft, a plurality of magnetic intermediate units disposed on the supporting unit and driven by the magnetic core unit, a magnetic surrounding unit driven by the magnetic intermediate units in a rotational speed smaller than the rotational speed of the magnetic core unit, and a propelling unit connected to the magnetic surrounding unit and having a plurality of angularly spaced-apart blades. |
| US08512081B2 |
Multi-stage beam contacts
An electrical connector has a first wafer having a first housing with a first plurality of contact beams extending from the first housing in a first plane. A second wafer has a second housing with a second plurality of contact beams extending from said second housing in a second plane substantially parallel to the first plane. A dividing panel member extends from the insulative housing between the first plurality of contact beams and the second plurality of contact beams. Each of the contact beams extending from the wafer pair is configured to mate with a corresponding backplane contact in a backplane connector. The contact beams extending from the wafer pair and the backplane contacts are configured such that each pair of corresponding contacts includes a first contact point and a second contact point. When the wafer pair is fully received by the backplane connector, contact between the contact beam and the backplane contact is maintained at both the first and second contact points. Each of the contact beams includes a pivot member configured such that the electrical connector has a low initial insertion force and develops a constant working normal force as the beams travel to and beyond the pivot member, as each mates with the backplane connector. |
| US08512080B2 |
Docking station for an electronic device with improved electrical interface
Disclosed is a device for attaching a plurality of external connectors to an electronic device having a first and second ports for attaching a first and second external connectors, a first and second plugs positioned to interface with a first and second ports of the electronic device, and a first and second pins positioned to interface with a first and second electrical contact of a third port on the electronic device. |
| US08512072B1 |
Utility receptacle apparatus for use with a work surface or similar article
A utility receptacle apparatus for use with an article of furniture having a work surface and an opening in the work surface. The utility receptacle apparatus has a grommet member having a top side, a bottom side, a peripheral portion and an opening. The bottom side has a structure that fits into an opening in the work surface. The peripheral portion contacts the work surface when the structure is disposed within the opening in the work surface. The utility receptacle apparatus includes a receptacle base member that is configured to be attached to the underside of a work surface of the article of furniture. A utility receptacle is located on the receptacle base member at a predetermined location so that the utility receptacle is accessible through the openings in the work surface and grommet member when the receptacle base member is attached to the underside of the work surface. |
| US08512070B2 |
Spring loaded clamp
Disclosed herein is an electrical connector. The electrical connector includes an upper member, a lower member, a fastening member, and a spring. The upper member includes a first end, a second end, and an upper groove portion. The upper groove portion is between the first and second ends. The first end includes a first opening. The lower member includes a lower groove portion, a receiving area, and a hole. A portion of the upper member extends into the receiving area. An end of the hole is at the receiving area. The fastening member extends through the hole and the opening. The first end of the fastening member includes an operable portion. The spring is between the second end of the fastening member and the upper member. A portion of the spring is in the opening. The first end of the upper member is between opposite ends of the spring. |
| US08512069B2 |
Flat plug electrical connector
A low-profile flat plug electrical connector having an integrated strain relief section and an interlocking terminating end is disclosed. The flat plug electrical connector has a housing for holding the electrical cable and prongs, and a cap for covering the internal structure of the housing. The housing has an integrated strain relief section for preventing damage to the flat plug electrical connector from abrupt pulling or pushing of the electrical cords. The cap and the housing have interlocking terminating ends which are configured for preventing the cap from separating from the housing when the plug is pulled from an electrical outlet. The electrical prongs of the hot and neutral electrical wires and the ground pin are locked in place by posts protruding from the cap which urges the prong mounting tab against a mounting surface in the housing. |
| US08512065B2 |
Waterproof simplex receptacle with insulation displacement
A receptacle comprises a simplex body with a front portion and terminals. A rear housing encloses female connectors and a ground connector, which are attached to corresponding terminals. Insulation displacers comprise conductive elements that cut through insulation on each side of power-supply wires. Features of both waterproofing and insulation displacement are therefore combined. |
| US08512063B2 |
Attachment mechanism for electronic component
An attachment mechanism for an electronic component includes a circuit board, an engaging member, and a pivoting member. The circuit board comprises a first connector to be connected to a second connector of the electronic component. The pivoting member is rotatably connected to the engaging member. The first connector is sandwiched by the pivoting member and the engaging member. The pivoting member includes a resilient bar to abut against a first end of a top surface of the electronic component. |
| US08512056B2 |
Rotatable plug and electronic device having such rotatable plug
An electronic device includes a plug and a main body. The plug includes a casing and a base. The casing has an opening. An extension part is formed on an inner surface of the casing. The base includes at least two conducting pieces. The main body includes a coupling member. The coupling member has a fixing structure and two pins. After the fixing structure is penetrated through the opening, the fixing structure is rotated to be moved along the extension part to a fixed location, so that plug and the main body are combined together and the two pins are respectively contacted with the conducting pieces. |
| US08512054B2 |
Automotive battery plug with retractable conduction sections
A car charger which has a charge circuit, a shell, an anode conduction section, a cathode conduction section, an operation section, and a connection interface is disclosed. The operation section may selectively collect the anode and cathode conduction sections within a container space of the shell by the manner selected from folding and rotating. Thus, convenience of carrying the car charger may be improved. |
| US08512051B2 |
Connector converting device
A connector converting device includes a mounting member, a circuit board, and a cover member. A receiving space, a front opening, and a rear opening are defined in the mounting member. The circuit board includes a board body, a first socket extending from the board body, and a first connecting end. The board body is received in the receiving space. The first connecting end extends out of the mounting member via the front opening to electrically connect to a second socket. The first socket electrically connects to a cable via the rear opening. The cover member engages with the mounting member to secure board body to the mounting member. |
| US08512049B1 |
Solderless compression connector comprising constant width conducting elements housed substantially within a dielectric when installed
A solderless compression connector is disclosed operable to couple first and second electrical components. The solderless compression connector comprises a housing comprising a dielectric forming a plurality of chambers, and an elongated conducting element disposed in each chamber. Each elongated conducting element comprises a first end operable to engage a first electrical lead of the first electrical component, and a second end operable to engage a second electrical lead of the second electrical component. Each elongated conducting element comprises a substantially constant thickness, and each elongated conducting element comprises a substantially constant width along a length of the elongated conducting element. A spacing between at least two of the elongated conducting elements is substantially constant. After installing the solderless compression connector, the elongated conducting elements are housed substantially within the respective chambers. |
| US08512048B2 |
Expansion device connectable to electronic device
A portable computer 1 has a first metallic portion 6 and a second metallic portion 7, and an expansion device 10 has a first magnet 16 and a second magnet 17, whereby the expansion device 10 can be attached to a predetermined position of the portable computer 1 using attractive forces generated by the magnets. Therefore, when the portable computer 1 to which the expansion device 10 is attached is dropped mistakenly on a floor, etc., and the impact is applied on the expansion device 10, the expansion device 10 is separated from the portable computer 1 easily. Thus, even if the expansion device 10 is damaged, the impact to be transmitted to the portable computer 1 can be reduced by separating the expansion device 10 from the portable computer 1, which reduces damage to the portable computer 1. |
| US08512047B2 |
Rotatable coaxial adaptor for linking high frequency coaxial cables
A rotatable coaxial adaptor for linking high frequency coaxial cables has a first mounting block, a first bearing, a first rotary part, a connecting sleeve, a second bearing and a second mounting block. The first bearing and the first rotary part are mounted in the first mounting block and the first rotary part has a first joining tube connected to a coaxial cable. The connecting sleeve is secured to the first mounting block. The second bearing is mounted around the connecting sleeve. The second mounting block with a second joining tube connected to another coaxial cable is mounted around the second bearing and the connecting sleeve. With the structure mentioned above, the coaxial cables will not be driven to bend when devices connected to the coaxial cables are moved. Therefore, the coaxial cables can be protected from damage. |
| US08512045B2 |
Antler mounting kit
An antler mounting kit is used to display antlers obtained from an animal. The antler mounting kit comprises a body that is formed from a polymer and that replicates natural contours of at least a portion of a head of the animal. A mounting base is fixed relative to the body and is positioned to support the antlers in an anatomically correct position that replicates antler position on the head of the animal. The body defines a cutout extending along the mounting base for receiving a base of the antlers. A cover replicates natural contours of a portion of the head of the animal and abuts the body and covers the cutout for concealing the base of the antlers. |
| US08512042B2 |
Educational interactive games
An educational interactive game of the invention includes a system for teaching financial skills to players, and in particular, children in the context of an interactive electronic game. Each player is initially provided a predetermined amount of periodic earned income, periodic expenses and a predetermined amount of cash on hand. These items are represented by corresponding indicia on an electronic display. An object of the game is for a player to generate passive income greater than the player's expenses by encountering game events that provide a player the opportunity to make financial choices to affect the desired outcome. |
| US08512040B2 |
Device and method for cleaning the oral cavity
Devices and methods for cleaning an oral cavity by positioning a device suitable for detecting and removing plaque from the surface within the oral cavity having applied thereto a fluorescent agent capable of binding to plaque on the surface. The surface is substantially simultaneously cleaned and irradiated with a light of a wavelength effective to provide a fluorescent emission when contacted with said fluorescent agent. A portion of the fluorescent emission is collected (APV1), and compared to a predetermined threshold value (PPTV). If APV1 is less than PPTV, the device is moved to another section. If APV1 is greater than or equal to PPTV, then another portion of fluorescent emission is collected (APV2). The percent reduction from APV1 to APV2 determines when the device is moved to another section. |
| US08512039B2 |
Dental attachment assembly and method
A dental attachment system has an abutment member configured for attachment to a tooth root, implant, or adjacent tooth, the abutment member having a head and an annular seat adjacent the head. An elastomeric ring is configured for releasable engagement in the seat on the abutment member, and is retained in a retainer ring which in turn is in swivel engagement with a concave inner surface of a cavity in a cap which is secured in a recess in a dental appliance such as a denture, partial denture, or the like. |
| US08512037B2 |
Custom orthodontic appliance system and method
Various features are provided for a custom orthodontic appliance manufacturing or designing system. These include features for inputting of data of patient anatomy and practitioner decisions, features for interactively or automatically manipulating data to arrive at appliance characteristics, and features for affecting design or manufacture of the appliance. |
| US08512035B2 |
Mixing device for a gas burner
A mixing device (10) for a gas burner, with a housing (11) having a combustion air inlet (13), a gas inlet (14) and an outlet (15) for the mixture of gas and combustion air, and with a Venturi device (12) which is positioned in the housing, wherein the Venturi device is contoured to form a contraction section (19), a mixing section (20) and a diffuser section (21). A guide device (22) for combustion air, which divides combustion air which enters the mixing device via the combustion air inlet (13) into a primary flow and a secondary flow, may be positioned inside the Venturi device, wherein the combustion air of the primary flow, issuing from the combustion air inlet, can be fed to the mixing section (20) via the contraction section (19), and wherein the combustion air of the secondary flow, issuing from the combustion air inlet, can be mixed downstream of the mixing section (20) in the region of the diffuser section (21) with the mixture of the gas and the combustion air of the primary flow. |
| US08512026B1 |
Dough sheeter with integral dough docker
The present invention is a dough sheeter with integral dough docker. The dough docker is a removable assembly with a docker subassembly and a scraper subassembly. The docker subassembly includes the docker roller and grate. The docker sprocket, driven by the sheeter motor, has a disk that meshes with a complimentary disk on the docker roller. The scraper subassembly includes the scraper, the backer attached to the scraper, and the gap adjuster, which includes a semicircular shaft that abuts the backer, a rectangular shaft attached to the scraper, and a threaded rod extending from the semicircular shaft through a hole in the scraper and a threaded hole in the rectangular shaft. The gap is adjusted by turning the rod in or out of the threaded hole. |
| US08512024B2 |
Multi-extruder
Multiple extrusion drive motors are nested in an overlapping configuration that permits re-use of the drive axes to support drive gears and complementary guide bearings, resulting in a compact arrangement of independently controllable extruders for multiple build materials. |
| US08512022B2 |
Apparatus and method for supplying powder quantitatively and material supplying apparatus including the apparatus for supplying powder
Provided are an apparatus and method for supplying powder quantitatively and a material supply apparatus including the apparatus for supplying powder quantitatively. The apparatus for supplying powder quantitatively to a place where required includes: a driving part generating a driving force using an external power; a powder supply part connected to the driving part, following the operation of the driving part, and transferring the powder according to a predetermined path; a chamber placed on the sides of the powder supply part and receiving the powder transferred by the powder supply part; a compression part compressing the transferred powder in the chamber; and a quantitative supply part separating a desired amount of powder from the compressed powder and discharging the separated powder from the chamber. The method of supplying powder quantitatively to a place where required includes: a preparation operation of receiving powder and preparing for the transfer of the powder; a powder transfer operation of transferring the powder to a chamber having a predetermined volume according to a predetermined path using a powder supply part that is driven by an external power and transfers the powder; a compressing operation of making the compressed bulk of powder by compressing the transferred powder in a compression part of the chamber; a separating operation of separating a desired amount of powder from the powder that is compressed and bridged in the chamber using a separating means; and a discharge operation of discharging the separated powder to the outside. |
| US08512021B2 |
Solid face die plate
A solid face die plate for an underwater pelletizer includes a carrier or holding plate having a circular slot for holding a hard anti-wear element of highly wear-resistant material through which the extrusion orifices open for extruding polymer. The solid face die plate eliminates the need for insulation or plugging material in the center of the die plate and, by embedding the hard anti-wear element within the carrier, protects the edges of the hard anti-wear element for longer wear life. |
| US08512020B2 |
Lining element comprising a shell and a core
The invention concerns a lining element intended to be applied to a support block of a segment of a segmented mold for tires, the lining element being intended to form tread patterns on part of a tire tread, characterized in that it comprises an outer shell (30) delimiting an inner volume and a core (34) inside the shell. |
| US08512017B2 |
Compression mechanism and scroll compressor including the same
A compression mechanism is configured to be used in a scroll compressor. The compression mechanism includes a fixed scroll and a movable scroll. One of the fixed scroll and the movable scroll is a cast iron molding fabricated through semi-molten die casting, and the other of the fixed scroll and the movable scroll is a grey iron casting. |
| US08512015B2 |
Piston refrigeration compressor
This refrigeration compressor includes a plurality of compression units, each compression unit having a cylinder head including a refrigerant suction chamber and a refrigerant discharge chamber, a refrigerant distribution device having a distribution pipe and bypass pipes putting the distribution and the suction chambers of the compression units in communication, and a refrigerant discharge device having a discharge pipe and bypass pipes putting the discharge pipe and the discharge chambers of the compression units in communication. The compressor also includes a pressure equilibration pipe arranged to put the suction chambers of at least two compression units and/or the discharge chambers of at least two compression units in communication. |
| US08512009B2 |
Steam driven pump for SAGD system
A downhole pump is operated by a non-electric motor preferably a steam turbine. In a steam assisted gravity drain system the producing well is U-shaped. A steam supply line runs into the turbine that drives the pump after the steam supply passes through a packer. The steam exhaust runs through a shroud until the U-shaped well turns back to go up to the surface. Pump suction is thus separated from steam discharge to reduce mixing as the path of least resistance for the discharged steam when it exits the shroud is up to the surface. The exhaust steam keeps the produced fluids warm and flowing. An injector well runs parallel and slightly above the horizontal portion of the U-shaped producing well. |
| US08512007B2 |
Compressor and method for controlling a compressor for the compressed air supply of a commercial vehicle
A compressor system and method of operating same are provided for the compressed air supply of a commercial vehicle, wherein the compressor system includes a compressor for compressed air generation, a transmission for transmitting torque from a drive motor to the compressor, a clutch for disconnecting the connection between compressor and drive motor, and a control unit for opening and closing the clutch. The control unit is capable of opening the clutch in the event a settable maximum allowed compressor speed or motor speed of the drive motor is exceeded and to close the open clutch temporarily when the motor speed is greater than the maximum allowed motor speed. |
| US08512004B2 |
Propeller fan
A propeller fan has a gap between a bellmouth and each blade tip. A leakage flow is thus produced from a positive pressure surface of a blade toward a negative pressure surface of the blade via the gap. The leakage flow develops while flowing from the leading edge of each blade toward the trailing edge, thus forming a blade tip vortex. This increases blowing noise and raises the input of the fan motor. In order to suppress the blade tip vortex caused by the leakage flow, the present invention includes recessed portions and projected portions, which are alternately formed in a portion of a blade surface of each blade corresponding to the blade tip. |
| US08512001B2 |
Turbomachine rotor comprising a pretensioning device for pretensioning a rotor blade
A turbomachine rotor, a rotor blade and a method for assembling a turbomachine rotor are provided. The turbomachine rotor includes a rotor blade with a blade root, a wheel disk with a groove in which the blade root engages such that the rotor blade is maintained in the groove in a positive fit in a radial direction. Further, a pretensioning device is provided, which is supported on the wheel disk as well as on the blade root and which exerts a pretensioning force on the blade root in the radial direction. The pretensioning device is designed such that the pretensioning force can be adjusted when assembling the turbomachine rotor. |
| US08511999B1 |
Multiple piece turbine rotor blade
A turbine rotor blade of the spar and shell construction, the spar including a tip end with a dovetail shaped groove extending from the top, and a tip cap includes a dovetail shaped slot that engages with the spar groove to retain the tip cap in place. A shell made from a high temperature resistant material is secured in place between the platform and the tip cap. The platform includes a core extending into a hollow space formed by the shell and discharges impingement cooling air against the backside wall of the shell. The spar and the platform include fir tree configurations so that an assembled blade can be inserted into a slot of a rotor disk. |
| US08511997B2 |
Uniform fatigue life spherical elastomeric bearing
An elastomeric spherical bearing includes a multiple of elastomeric layers with an essentially equivalent fatigue life. |
| US08511995B1 |
Turbine blade with platform cooling
A turbine rotor blade with a platform includes platform cooling channels on the pressure side and the suction side of the platform. The cooling channels are formed from straight section that generally follows a contour of the airfoil in order to provide cooling to as much of the platform surfaces as possible. Pressure side cooling channels have a V-shape from inlet to outlet. Suction side channels branch off from a common channel located along a suction side edge of the platform. |
| US08511993B2 |
Application of dense vertically cracked and porous thermal barrier coating to a gas turbine component
A configuration for coating a turbine component such as a blade or vane with various forms of thermal barrier coating to provide enhanced temperature capability and increased strain tolerance is disclosed. A gas path surface of the platform, airfoil and airfoil fillet region are first coated with a bond coating. A dense vertically cracked (DVC) thermal barrier coating is then applied to at least the gas path surface of the platform and can be applied to the fillet region. A porous thermal barrier coating is then applied to at least the airfoil. The porous thermal barrier coating can also be applied over the DVC thermal barrier coating if desired. |
| US08511991B2 |
Composite turbine blade and method of manufacture thereof
A composite turbine blade and a method of manufacture thereof is disclosed. The composite turbine blade comprises a turbine blade portion comprising a first material and a first tip plate comprising a second material. The turbine blade portion has an exterior wall and an interior wall surrounding a hollow interior cavity, and a top surface extending from the exterior wall to the interior wall bounding an orifice that is fluidly connected to the hollow interior cavity. The first tip plate may be attached to the turbine blade along the top surface and extending from proximate the exterior wall of the turbine blade across the orifice to cover the orifice. |
| US08511988B2 |
Monitoring of blade frequencies of a wind turbine
A method for monitoring blade frequencies of a wind turbine and a monitoring system for performing the method are provided. An accelerometer or G-sensor is placed into a nacelle of a wind turbine and thereby measuring the vibrations of the nacelle. To extract the vibration signals originating from each blade, the vibration signals are combined with the measuring signals from the azimuth angle sensor (rotating angle), which is normally used for pitch control. To further extract each blade frequency a Fast Fourier Transformation is used on the modulated G-sensor signals. To further monitor a severe and alarming change in each blade frequency, each blade frequency is compared to the other blade frequencies and an alarm is set when a given level is reached. |
| US08511987B2 |
Engine bearing support
A turbofan engine comprises an engine case. A gaspath extends through the engine case. A fan has a circumferential array of fan blades. A fan case encircles the fan blades radially outboard of the engine case. A plurality of fan case vanes extend outward from the engine case to the fan case. A front frame assembly includes a plurality of vanes extending radially across the gaspath. A transmission couples a shaft to a fan shaft to drive the fan. A bearing assembly couples the shaft to the front frame assembly. A bearing support extends aftward and radially inward from the front frame assembly to the bearing assembly. |
| US08511986B2 |
Bearing mounting system in a low pressure turbine
A bearing mounting system for use in a gas turbine engine having a low pressure turbine supported on a low pressure shaft through a support rotor comprises a low pressure turbine case, a forward bearing and an aft bearing, and a forward support structure and an aft support structure. The low pressure turbine case surrounds the low pressure turbine. The forward bearing and the aft bearing are positioned on the low pressure shaft to straddle the support rotor. The forward support structure and the aft support structure connect the forward bearing and the aft bearing, respectively, to the low pressure turbine case. The low pressure shaft extends axially between the forward bearing and the aft bearing. In one embodiment, the turbine comprises a plurality of adjacent rotor disks, and the support rotor comprises a conical support connecting one of the rotor disks with the shaft. |
| US08511984B2 |
Gas turbine engine exhaust diffuser and collector
Systems are provided that may be used to diffuse and deflect the flows of gas into a plurality of gas flows. A gas flow, for example, exhaust gas, may be diffused, that is, spread out by the diffuser. A flow deflector may be coupled to the diffuser so that the gas flow may result in a plurality of gas flows. By diffusing and allowing a plurality of gas flows, improved gas flows may be achieved. |
| US08511980B2 |
Segmented ceramic matrix composite turbine airfoil component
A segmented component for use with a gas turbine engine comprises a radially extending gas path portion. The gas path portion is for interacting with gas flow from the gas turbine engine. The gas path portion comprises a forward portion forming a leading edge of a stationary vane, an aft portion forming a trailing edge of the stationary vane, and a plurality of middle portions forming a pressure side and a suction side of the stationary vane. The component is divided into axially aligned segments comprising a forward segment, an aft segment, and a plurality of middle segments disposed between the forward segment and the aft segment. The middle segments comprise radially elongate ceramic matrix composite material plates. |
| US08511979B2 |
High pressure turbine vane airfoil profile
A two-stage high pressure turbine includes a second stage vane having an airfoil with a profile substantially in accordance with at least an intermediate portion of the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 2. The X and Y values are distances, which when smoothly connected by an appropriate continuing curve, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z. The profile sections at each distance Z are joined smoothly to one another to form a complete airfoil shape. |
| US08511978B2 |
Airfoil array with an endwall depression and components of the array
An airfoil array includes a laterally extending endwall 56 with a series of airfoils such as 28 or 38 projecting from the endwall. The airfoils cooperate with the endwall to define a series of fluid flow passages 74. The endwall has a trough 100 toward a pressure side of the passage and a more elevated profile toward a suction side of the passage for reducing secondary flow losses. |
| US08511975B2 |
Gas turbine shroud arrangement
A system for supporting a shroud used in an engine has a shroud positioned radially outboard of a rotor, which shroud has a plurality of circumferentially spaced slots; a forward support ring for supporting the shroud; the forward support ring having a plurality of spaced apart first tabs on a first side for functioning as anti-rotation devices; the forward support ring having a plurality of spaced apart second tabs on a second side; and the second tabs engaging the slots in the shroud and circumferentially supporting the shroud. |
| US08511974B2 |
Control mechanism
A control mechanism is provided for moving at least two components of a gas turbine engine. The control mechanism comprises a movable actuation rod and a first linkage arrangement which includes a first bell crank connecting the actuation rod to a first component. Movement of the actuation rod produces an output motion of the first bell crank which in turn drives movement of the first component. The control mechanism further comprises a second linkage arrangement which includes a second bell crank connecting the actuation rod to a second component. Movement of the actuation rod produces an output motion of the second bell crank which in turn drives movement of the second component. The first and the second linkage arrangements are configure so that over a predetermined range of movement of the actuation rod the first component is moved which the second component is not moved. |
| US08511973B2 |
Guide system for nacelle assembly
A guide system for translating components of an aircraft engine nacelle includes a track assembly and a slider assembly. The track assembly includes a track guide member having a track channel. The slider assembly translatably engages the track assembly. The slider assembly includes a slider body configured to be received within the track channel. The slider assembly further includes a slider arm member pivotably coupled to the slider body with a hinge joint disposed within the track channel. The slider arm member extends from the body portion and outwardly of the track assembly. Associated apparatuses are also provided. |
| US08511971B2 |
One-piece compressor and turbine containment system
A compressor shroud for containing fragments of a compressor impeller and a turbine wheel within a gas turbine engine. The compressor shroud includes a compressor containment section, a turbine containment section, and a containment continuity section. The containment continuity section connects the compressor containment section and the turbine containment section to form a one-piece part. |
| US08511970B2 |
Plug assembly
A plug assembly is disclosed herein for a borescope inspection path defined through apertures in spaced walls. The plug assembly includes a first plug operable to at least partially close a first aperture in an inner wall. The plug assembly also includes a second plug operable to at least partially close a second aperture in an outer wall. The plug assembly also includes a member extending along an axis and connecting the first and second plugs together in spaced relation to one another along the axis. The member is operable to elastically buckle. |
| US08511968B2 |
Turbine vane for a gas turbine engine having serpentine cooling channels with internal flow blockers
A turbine vane for a gas turbine engine with an internal cooling system formed from a serpentine cooling channel with one or more flow blocking ribs is disclosed. The serpentine cooling channels may be configured to receive cooling fluids from internal cooling fluids supply channels. The serpentine cooling channels may include flow blocking ribs to form concurrent flow channels to reduce the cross-sectional area within the midchord region of the airfoil to maintain the internal through flow channel Mach number. The flow blocking ribs may include slots therein and may have any appropriate configuration. In at least one embodiment, the flow blocking ribs may be have a nonuniform taper or a uniformed taper. |
| US08511965B2 |
Vertical axis turbine
A guiding apparatus for guiding a flow of a fluid for use with a rotor, the rotor comprising an annular radial vane assembly surrounding a central space which is enclosed save via the vane assembly and being arranged to rotate about a vertical axis, the guiding apparatus comprising a screening for guiding the fluid to circulate substantially about the vertical axis within the central space in the same direction as the rotor during use. |
| US08511963B1 |
Pipe handling assembly
A method and apparatus for a pipe handling assembly is disclosed. A pipe handling assembly is provided that has a pusher member, trough, and elevation feature. A pipe component is transported from a first position of the trough to a second position with the pusher member. The pipe component is elevated to a predetermined height through engagement with the elevation feature that is stationary during the pipe component's movement. |
| US08511958B2 |
Screw with double notches
A screw with double notches includes a head portion, a shank portion extended outward from the head portion, a threaded section spirally surrounded on the shank portion. Wherein, a raw section on the shank portion is provided with a cambered surface formed integral with the shank portion in cross-section, and a notched section relative to the raw section has two cutting notches separately depressed into the shank portion and disposed near an end of the shank portion, thereby forming a protrudent part between the two cutting notches. By means of the cooperation of the cutting notches and the raw section, the cutting capability and the removal of debris are increased so that a fastened object is prevented from split. Thereby, the drilling speed is promoted, and the effort to rotate the screw is lessened. While the supporting strength of the screw is improved, the screw does not break easily while screwing. |
| US08511957B2 |
Fastener for stucco or hard board substrates
A self-tapping fastener, which has been especially constructed for use in connection with the insertion and installation thereof into stucco, gypsum, wallboard, or other hard board substrates, wherein the forward end portion of the shank portion of the self-tapping fastener is provided with a pair of diametrically opposed flat sections which effectively form at least one pair of diametrically opposed tapping threads so as to effectively perform the thread tapping process despite exhibiting some abrasion of the forwardmost threads. In addition, the flat sections also effectively define recessed pockets for accommodating any dust, particles, debris, or the like, which will be generated during the thread tapping process. |
| US08511956B2 |
Fastener and heat dissipation device using the same
An exemplary fastener used for connecting at least two components together includes a bolt, a shell, and an elastic member. The bolt has a head, a shaft, an engaging portion, and a threaded portion in series. A diameter of the engaging portion is larger than a diameter of the shaft and a diameter of the threaded portion. The shell has a side wall and a collar extending inwardly from a bottom of the side wall. The collar defines a through hole therein. A diameter of the through hole is slightly smaller than the diameter of the engaging portion of the bolt. The elastic member is sandwiched between the head of the bolt and the collar of the shell. The bolt with the elastic member is received in the shell, and a top of the engaging portion of the bolt abuts against a bottom of the collar of the shell. |
| US08511955B2 |
Spiral body lock and method
A spiral body lock including a mandrel; a sleeve; and at least one of the mandrel and sleeve including a male component, the other of the mandrel and the sleeve including a recess receptive to the male component at least one of the recess and the male component being helically configured and method. |
| US08511945B2 |
Drill assembly and method to reduce drill bit plunge
A drill assembly and method for reducing plunge of a drill bit upon breaking through a workpiece. The drill assembly contains a motor to advance and retract the drill bit, the motor is controlled by a control unit in a feedback loop to achieve a desired stiffness. The control unit determines when the drill bit breaks through the workpiece and stops or retracts the movement of the drill bit. |
| US08511944B2 |
Clamping device having independently resilient clamping fingers for clamping a cutting insert in a tool holder
A clamping device for removably securing a cutting insert in a tool holder used in turning and milling operations, where the clamping device comprises a clamping lever and an actuating member. The clamping lever includes a first and second limb extending from a central elbow, the first limb having a clamping end portion with two independently resilient clamping fingers separated by a clamping slot and the second limb being operatively connected to the actuating member. Each of the independently resilient clamping fingers has a resilience axis of rotation and an upper clamping zone in clamping contact with the cutting insert, where the resilience axes of rotation are generally parallel to the slot width of the clamping slot. |
| US08511943B2 |
Milling insert for chip removing machining
A milling insert (1) for chip removing machining, has a positive basic geometry, including at least three main cutting edges (H1-H3) and three associated minor cutting edges (B1-B3), the milling insert (1) on the underside (L1) thereof being provided with at least two, mutually intersecting, sets of rectilinear grooves/notches, the sets of grooves/notches defining essentially pyramidal projecting parts (P), the sets of grooves/notches intersecting opposite side surfaces (S1-S6) of the milling insert (1). A face milling cutter equipped with such milling inserts is described. Characteristic of the milling insert (1) is that when the milling insert is seen in a planar view, the rectilinear direction (R1-R3) defined by each set of grooves/notches forms a right angle with the tangent of a minor cutting edge (B1-B3). |
| US08511942B2 |
Machine tool with adjustable cutting insert
A rotating machine tool has a base with a rotating axis, at least one pocket formed in the base and at least one blade support holding a cutting plate. Two side surfaces of the blade support sit against a side support surface, respectively, the blade support side surfaces making an angle between them, and the base of the blade support sits against a base support surface of the pocket, the blade support being clamped in the pocket removably by way of a clamp element. The cutting plate protrudes over the blade support with an effective blade and over the base outward. |
| US08511941B2 |
Device and method for drilling and compacting ground
A device (1) for drilling and tamping grounds is constituted by a tamping tip (1A) rigidly connected to a shaft (3) which constitutes the connection to the end part of a battery of rods moved by a drilling machine, which gives it movement in a vertical direction and a rotation around its longitudinal axis. The battery of rods is inserted into a covering tube (14). Between the tamping tip (1A) and the tube (14) a substantially cylindrical tamping element (9, 9a) is interposed, adapted to define a tamping diameter of the ground which forms the walls of the hole obtained by the device (1) at least equal to the diameter of the tube (14). |
| US08511934B1 |
Drive train assembly for a concrete finishing machine with centrally located engine
A drive train assembly for a ride-on twin rotor concrete finishing machine mounts the main clutch and drive belt arrangement at an unobstructed location on a gear box at one end of the supporting frame where it is readily accessible for changing the drive belt without disassembly of the main drive shaft while maintaining a centrally located engine. |
| US08511932B2 |
Road construction machine, leveling device, as well as method for controlling the milling depth or milling slope in a road construction machine
A control and switchover system is provided for controlling milling depth and/or slope of a milling drum of a road construction machine during a milling operation to create a milled surface. The system controls the milling depth and/or slope at least in part on a measurement made with a first sensor. Without interrupting the milling operation the system switches over the control of the milling depth and/or slope to control based at least in part on a measurement made with a second sensor. |
| US08511926B2 |
Water-based ballpoint pen
A water-based ballpoint pen using a cemented carbide ball comprising tungsten carbide and a metal binder as a writing front end, wherein cobalt and/or nickel are contained in the cemented carbide ball as the metal binder in an amount of 1 to 20% by weight based on the total amount of the ball and which further includes an aqueous ink composition containing a colorant, water, a phosphate ester-based surfactant, and any one or more compounds of a thiadiazole represented by formula (1), 5-mercapto-3-phenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione or a salt thereof, and an oligomer of 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole: wherein X and Y each represents any substituent of CH3, NH2, and SM, and M represents any of hydrogen, an alkali metal, an ammonium, and an alkanolamine. |
| US08511924B2 |
Dispensing device for viscous materials
A dispenser for viscous materials has a housing with a moveable wall that divides the interior volume of the housing into a distal product chamber and a proximal pressure chamber. An outlet from the product chamber is located adjacent to the distal end of the housing and an air inlet is provided to allow air to enter the pressure chamber. Displacement of the product occurs when accumulated excess air pressure in the pressure chamber acts on the back of the movable wall. The excess air pressure is built up by a bellows assembly arranged in fluid communication with the pressure chamber. On actuation, the bellows can be reduced in volume and subsequently recover by entry of air through the inlet. The direction of force application is preferably perpendicular to the housing axis and the location of the bellows is preferably distant from the product outlet. |
| US08511922B2 |
Applicators and assembly, filling, and dispensing methods
A dispenser (20) has a barrel (24; 198), a piston (28) upwardly movable within the barrel from a first position to a second position, and a body (22) of personal care composition at least partially within the barrel between the piston and the barrel top end (44). An actuator is coupled to the piston to shift the piston upward (toward the top end). The actuator comprises a screw member having a threaded first portion (36) engaged to the piston for relative rotation about a first axis (500). The screw has a second portion (50). A cap (60) has a first condition mounted at the barrel top end. The cap has a socket (82) in an outer surface. The cap is removable from the first condition and installable into a second condition. In the cap second condition, the socket receives the screw member second portion to emit a user-induced rotation of the cap about the first axis to, in turn, rotate the first portion. |
| US08511919B2 |
Light quantity adjustment device and image pickup apparatus including same
A light quantity adjustment device includes: an aperture mechanism that varies an aperture opening through drive of aperture blades to restrict a quantity of light that passes through the aperture opening; and an ND filter inserted in and removed from an optical path on a light incident side or a light exit side of the aperture opening. The ND filter has a distribution of transmittance in which the transmittance differs in a direction of interposition of the ND filter in the optical path of the aperture opening, and includes a recessed portion formed by recessing a center portion of a distal-end region of the ND filter on a side of interposition in the optical path of the aperture opening in a direction opposite the direction of interposition. |
| US08511915B2 |
Housing assembly and surveillance camera apparatus including the same
A housing assembly and a surveillance camera apparatus including the housing assembly are provided. The housing assembly includes a dome cover which receives a photographing component therein; an air blower which provides air to the dome cover; and a duct through which the air provided from the air blower is discharged to the dome cover. |
| US08511914B2 |
Method for connecting optical fibers and connection structure of optical fibers
A method for connecting optical fibers and a connection structure of optical fibers capable of suppressing axial misalignment between cores in end-to-end connection of optical fibers at least one of which has a clad for a non-circular shape.The method includes: a preparing step of preparing a pair of optical fibers 30, 50 including a first optical fiber 30 having a clad 32 of a non-circular shape and a second optical fiber 50 having a clad 52 of a circular shape; a forming step of forming the clad 32 of the first optical fiber 30 at and near one end 35 thereof to have a more circular shape from the non-circular shape; an aligning step of observing in side view the first and second optical fibers 30, 50 and aligning a core 31 of the first optical fiber 30 at and near the one end 35 thereof and a core 51 of the second optical fiber 50 at and near one end 55 thereof in a straight line; and a fusing step of butting the one end 35 of the first optical fiber 30 and the one end 55 of the second optical fiber 50 against each other and fusing the ends together. |
| US08511912B2 |
Optical fiber module
An optical fiber module includes an optical transmission line and a fiber stub structure. The optical transmission line has an optical fiber core, a coating enclosing the optical fiber core and a buffer layer enclosing the coating. A part of the optical fiber core is exposed to outer side of a free end of the optical transmission line. The fiber stub structure includes a sleeve and a ferrule. The sleeve has an internal central hole for accommodating the optical transmission line and an oblique hole in communication with the central hole for accommodating the ferrule. The ferrule has an internal passageway for accommodating a part of the optical fiber core of the optical transmission line. When installed, under the restriction of the oblique hole, the ferrule is disposed in the sleeve in an inclined state. |
| US08511903B2 |
Wheel bearing device and manufacturing method therefor
A wheel bearing device of the invention includes a flanged shaft member that includes a shaft portion to which a rolling bearing is assembled, a fitting shaft portion that is formed on one end side of the shaft portion and that is fitted to a center hole of a wheel, and a plurality of flange portions that extend radially outward on an outer peripheral surface located between the shaft portion and the fitting shaft portion and each of which has a through bolt hole in which a hub bolt for fastening the wheel is arranged. Each flange portion of the wheel bearing device is formed by side extrusion when a forged recess is formed at a center of an end surface of the fitting shaft portion by cold forging. An edge portion of a cross-sectional shape taken perpendicularly to a longitudinal direction of each flange portion is formed in an R-chamfered shape. |
| US08511901B2 |
Image recording apparatus and method
An image recording apparatus converts a frame number of stream data of a moving image signal recorded at a high speed frame rate and generates stream data of a low speed frame rate. The image recording apparatus records in a recording medium, already recorded stream data of a low speed frame rate and the generated stream data of a low speed frame rate so that both stream data can be continuously reproduced. |
| US08511899B2 |
Fluid dynamic bearing device, and manufacturing method of bearing member
A molding pin (23) is formed in a sectional shape of being held in contact at two points (contact points are denoted by P′) with an imaginary cylindrical surface (C′). As a result, an undercut of a fixation hole (21b1) is reduced or eliminated, and hence it becomes easier to process a die. Moreover, a corner portion (21d) between a cylindrical surface (21c) and the fixation hole (21b1) becomes obtuse, and hence the die becomes less liable to deform and break. Therefore, manufacturing cost of the die can be reduced, and hence cost reduction of the bearing device can be achieved. |
| US08511898B2 |
Gas bearing and fabrication method
A method of fabricating a bearing surface for a gas or air bearing is described. The method comprises taking a bulk bearing portion having at least one bearing surface region and providing a coating on the bearing surface region to define at least one gas pocket. The at least one gas pocket has a depth substantially equal to the thickness of the coating. In one example, laser ablation is used to remove part of the coating to form the gas pockets. The coating may be an anodized coating and the bulk bearing portion may be formed from aluminum. An air bearing component formed using the method is also described. |
| US08511894B2 |
System and method for measuring and compensating for patient pallet deflection
A PET imaging system includes a measurement subsystem, a data acquisition subsystem, and a reconstruction subsystem. The measurement subsystem detects deflection in a patient pallet, and generates deflection information based on the detected deflection. The data acquisition subsystem receives the deflection information from the measurement subsystem and PET measurement data corresponding to a plurality of coincidence events from a PET scanner, and communicates the received deflection information and PET measurement data to the reconstruction subsystem. The reconstruction subsystem includes a processor that reconstructs a PET scan image using the deflection information and the PET measurement data communicated by the data acquisition subsystem. |
| US08511893B2 |
Packaging for a radiological device
Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some implementations a cover sheet and a frame of a X-ray imaging detector are attached through interlocking apparatus that provides a strong attachment between the cover sheet and the X-ray imaging detector frame and that also reduces the complexity of the attachment and reduces the number of fasteners required between the cover sheet and the X-ray imaging detector frame. |
| US08511889B2 |
Flow distribution mixer
A mixer for mixing a fluid having a property varying along a flow direction of the fluid includes an inlet configured for receiving an inlet flow, an outlet configured for providing an outlet flow, and a plurality of flow channels coupled between the inlet and the outlet. The mixer also includes a flow distributor for distributing the inlet flow into the plurality of flow channels so that each flow channel receives a partial flow from the inlet flow, and a flow combiner for combining the partial flows from the plurality of flow channels to the outlet flow. Each flow channel has a first flow section having a hydraulic resistance substantially representing a hydraulic resistance of the flow channel. One or more of the flow channels each have a second flow section coupled in series with the first flow section of the respective flow channel. |
| US08511886B2 |
Mixing apparatus and method of using same
An apparatus (1) and a method for ad-mixing an additive for a drilling fluid for use in the drilling of a petroleum well are described. The apparatus (1) includes: a mixing chamber (3) which is connected, in terms of fluid, to an inlet line (5) for drilling fluid, an outlet line (7) for drilling fluid and at least one dosing device (9, 9′) for an additive, the dosing device (9, 9′) being arranged to supply the additive from a container (11, 11′) to the mixing chamber (3) and to form a pressure-tight barrier between the mixing chamber (3) and the container (11, 11′); and a pumping device (13) arranged downstream of the mixing chamber (3), which is arranged to suck drilling fluid through the mixing chamber (3). |
| US08511875B2 |
Lighting unit for vehicles and mounting method
The present invention relates to a lighting unit for vehicles, comprising a light source arranged on a circuit board and further comprising an optical attachment mounted in the direction of light emission in front of the light source, said optical attachment comprising at least one holding turret on one of the sides facing the circuit board such that, at its mounting position, the holding turret slots into a hole drilled into the circuit board, wherein the optical attachment is positive-locking to a holding body arranged on one of the sides facing away from the light source, wherein the holding body is molded to a carrier frame, and wherein the holding body or the carrier frame snaps on to the optical attachment. |
| US08511871B2 |
Structure of plug-in light string
A structure of plug-in light string is provided, including a light shell, a separation element, an LED and a plurality of wires. The two metal leads extended from the LED are soldered to respective wires. The top of the separation element presses against the bottom of the LED, and the separation element and the LED are plugged into the light shell. The LED extends partially from the top opening of the light shell, and the separation element is buckled to the light shell to fasten the position of each component. Inside the light shell, the separation element separates the connection segments of the two metal leads and the wires. In this manner, the structure of plug-in light string is constituted to achieve advantages of easy assembly, water-proof effect, safe usage and small size. |
| US08511870B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating monochromatic or polychromatic radiation
A method and apparatus involve a radiation source assembly that outputs radiation along an output path of travel, and that has a support section configured to facilitate support of the assembly so that a position of the assembly can be adjusted approximately pivotally about the output path of travel. According to a different aspect, a method and apparatus involve: generating radiation with a radiation source in a radiation source assembly that is a modular unit; emitting this radiation approximately in a direction; supporting the radiation source near an input port of a radiation guide so that the radiation from the radiation source enters the input port, and so that the radiation source is positionally adjustable toward and away from the input port parallel to the direction; and supplying radiation through the radiation guide from the input port to an output port thereof. |
| US08511868B2 |
Remote ballast housing with airflow channel
A high-intensity discharge lighting fixture of the type having an optics housing and optics components mounted therein, the fixture comprises a ballast housing having a first member and a second member including at least one airflow channel integrally formed therein, the airflow channel is positioned immediately adjacent the optics housing and is adapted to facilitate free airflow between the ballast housing and the optics housing whereby heat is dissipated from the lighting fixture to the atmosphere. |
| US08511867B1 |
Apparatus and method for providing adjustable lip heights for plaster applications on a ceiling surface
An apparatus that includes a first frame and a second frame coupleable to the first frame. The first frame includes an inner edge, an outer edge, and a base extending between the edges. The second frame includes an inner edge, an outer edge, a base extending between the edges, and a sidewall extending substantially perpendicularly outward from the inner edge. The sidewall includes a lip portion that extends beyond the first frame's base once the first frame is coupled to the second frame and the sidewall is inserted adjacently through the first frame's inner edge. The first frame is coupled to the second frame in at least a first orientation and a second orientation. The lip portion has a first length when coupled in the first orientation and a second length when coupled in the second orientation. The first length is smaller than the second length. |
| US08511864B2 |
LED device for wide beam generation
An apparatus and method is characterized by providing an optical transfer function between a predetermined illuminated surface pattern, such as a street light pattern, and a predetermined energy distribution pattern of a light source, such as that from an LED. A lens is formed having a shape defined by the optical transfer function. The optical transfer function is derived by generating an energy distribution pattern using the predetermined energy distribution pattern of the light source. Then the projection of the energy distribution pattern onto the illuminated surface is generated. The projection is then compared to the predetermined illuminated surface pattern to determine if it acceptably matches. The process continues reiteratively until an acceptable match is achieved. Alternatively, the lens shape is numerically or analytically determined by a functional relationship between the shape and the predetermined illuminated surface pattern and predetermined energy distribution pattern of a light source as inputs. |
| US08511863B2 |
Luminaire
According to an embodiment, a luminaire includes a thermal radiation member, and a light source unit provided on a front side of the thermal radiation member. The thermal radiation member has plural support walls provided on a rear surface radially about a substantially central portion of the rear surface toward an outer periphery, and plural thermal radiation fins provided on the rear surface, being away from each other and substantially parallel to each other toward the outer periphery from neighboring wall surface sides of the plural support walls. The light source unit includes a light-emitting element. |
| US08511856B2 |
LED device having printable layer
A flexible light transmitting device, comprising a printable layer, a backing layer, and a light-emitting diode strip disposed between the printable layer and the backing layer. The printable layer is translucent to permit transmission of light from the light-emitting diodes through the printable layer when the light-emitting diodes are activated; however, the LED strip remains hidden between the layers. The printable layer is adapted to receive printed indicia by way of thermal printing process. The backing layer is substantially opaque comprises a durable nylon webbing or polypropylene material. The embedded LED strip comprises an elongated flexible casing containing spaced apart light-emitting diodes, one or more light interrupting spacers, and at least one ribbon wire extending through the casing and electrically coupling said light-emitting diodes. The light-emitting diodes are electrically coupled to a switch assembly which provides the LED switch with a plurality of operative modes. |
| US08511853B2 |
Point light source and light source module using the same
A point light source includes a light-emitting portion, a first lead and a second lead. The first lead and the second lead are electrically connected to the light-emitting portion. The first lead and the second lead respectively have a wedging portion. The wedging portions can be matched with each other. A light source module using the point light source is also provided. The light source module includes at least one light source assembly. Each light source assembly includes a plurality of the point light sources connected in series. Adjacent two point light sources are wedged to each other in series by a combination of the wedging portions of the adjacent first lead and second lead. |
| US08511852B1 |
Systems, methods, and devices for providing bracket-based LED lighting solutions for light fixtures
Systems, methods, and devices of the invention are directed to a light fixture that includes a housing with a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, two side walls, and an aperture, a reflector connected to the housing, and one or more bracket-based LED light sources segments connected to at least one of the front wall, the back wall, or the two side walls of the housing. In some embodiments of the invention, the housing is a wall mount housing. In some embodiments of the invention the bracket-based LED light source includes a bracket shaped to position the LED light source to emit a particular optical distribution from the aperture of the housing, and/or the bracket is shaped to thermally disburse heat radiating from the LED light source. In other embodiments of the invention, a portion of a bracket of at least one bracket-based LED light source is flexible. |
| US08511847B2 |
Portable light having a rotatable cylindrical head
A portable light may comprise: a generally rectangular light body having a pair of opposing extensions or projections thereon, the light body having a generally rectangular cavity for receiving a source of electrical power therein; a generally cylindrical light head rotatably supported between the extensions of the light body adjacent the light body, the light head including a light source for producing light; and a switch for selectively actuating the light source. The light may include interchangeably a generally rectangular battery or a plural cylindrical batteries, and the battery or batteries may be rechargeable. |
| US08511844B2 |
Refrigerator
The embodiment relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a light emitting unit that lights a storage room; a power supply unit that supplies power for operating the light emitting unit; a door opening sensor including a switch that senses an opening of a door and a first transistor whose base receives an on/off signals of the switch; and a driving unit that drives the light emitting unit according to current output from the door opening sensor. |
| US08511843B2 |
Organic illumination device and lighting device
This disclosure relates to an organic illumination device that has a light source, a connective device, and a plug device. The light source has a flat illuminating surface containing one or more light-emitting diodes. The connecting device applies electrical power to electrodes and couples one or more organic light-emitting diodes. The plug device, which is electrically connected with the connecting device, is configured for a rotatable mount in such a way that the flat illuminating surface can be swiveled around a rotary axis in a plugged-in position of the plug device. |
| US08511841B2 |
Vehicular blind spot indicator mirror
A vehicular blind spot indicator mirror includes a transparent glass substrate having a mirror reflector coated onto the substrate. Visible light reflectance by the mirror reflector coated substrate is at least about 40 percent visible light reflectance for visible light incident upon a front side of the mirror reflector coated substrate. A blind spot indicator light display is disposed to the rear of the mirror reflector coated substrate and emits visible light upon a detection by a blind spot detector. Light emitted by the display passes through the transparent glass substrate to be viewed by a viewer viewing from the front side of the substrate. The display is operable, when electrically powered and when operated in the vehicle during day time driving conditions, to exhibit a display luminance of at least about 60 foot lamberts as measured with the display placed behind, and emitting light through, the transparent glass substrate. |
| US08511839B2 |
Retroreflective article
A retroreflective article having excellent retroreflective efficiency, entrance angle characteristic, observation angle characteristic, and rotation angle characteristic is provided. In a retroreflective article including a number of cube corner retroreflective elements formed in a closely packed manner on a common plane (plane Sc), each of the cube corner retroreflective elements having three reflective lateral surfaces (surface a, surface b and surface c) that have three edge lines (HD, HE and HF) and one apex (H) in common and an optical axis that passes through the apex (H) and is at equal distance from the three reflective lateral surfaces (surface a, surface b and surface c), the retroreflective article includes at least two or more types of cube corner retroreflective elements having optical axes tilted with respect to each other within a plane (plane Sv) that is perpendicular to a reflective lateral surface (surface c) and includes a common edge line (HF) of the other reflective lateral surfaces (surface a and surface b) and a perpendicular line from the apex (H) to the common plane (plane Sc). |
| US08511834B2 |
Projection type display apparatus
A projection type display apparatus in accordance with the present invention is provided with a lamp unit including a light source, a cooling fan cooling the light source, and a cooling wind guide tube guiding a cooling wind generated by the cooling fan to the lamp unit, and the cooling wind guide tube is structured such as to have a movable type rectification plate which is movable by its own weight, and cools the light source without being affected by an installed direction of the projection type display apparatus. |
| US08511833B2 |
Image projection apparatus
An image projection apparatus includes a lamp, an air duct configured to lead air from a cooling fan to the inside of a reflector of the lamp, an exhaust duct configured to lead first air, second air, and third air to an exhaust port formed in a housing of the image projection apparatus, the first air passing the inside of the reflector, the second air being drawn from a first inlet port in the housing and passing an area that faces an outer surface of the reflector, and the third air being drawn from a second inlet port formed in the housing, wherein a first area that blends the first air with the third air, and a second area that blends blended area from the first area with the second air and leads resultant air to the exhaust port are provided inside of the exhaust duct. |
| US08511829B2 |
Image processing apparatus, projection display apparatus, video display system, image processing method, and computer readable storage medium
An image processing apparatus processes image data corresponding to a display image. The image processing apparatus includes M image processing sections which have a function of processing image data of M (where M is an integer equal to or greater than 2) images segmented from the image and an image processing control section which, when an image corresponding to input image data is an image which has a resolution being of size to be processable by N (where N is an integer equal to or smaller than M−1) image processing sections, causes L image processing sections from among the M image processing sections to process image data corresponding to L (where L is an integer equal to or greater than N+1 and equal to or smaller than M) partial images segmented from image data. |
| US08511827B2 |
Head-mounted projection display using reflective microdisplays
The present invention relates generally to a head-mounted projection display, and more particularly, but not exclusively to a polarized head-mounted projection display including a light engine and a compact, high-performance projection lens for use with reflective microdisplays. |
| US08511826B2 |
Optometric apparatus
An optometric apparatus for examining visual functions of an examinee's eye includes: a memory for storing prism powers corresponding to the visual functions of the examinee's eye; an output unit; and a control unit for graphically displaying on the output unit normative areas being areas of normative prism powers in addition to information on prism powers of the examinee's eye based on the prism powers stored in the memory. |
| US08511821B2 |
Eye model for use in ophthalmological measurements
An artificial eye model for use in ophthalmological measurements exhibits a simulation of at least one eye structure, for instance of a cornea or of a crystalline lens. In accordance with the invention the simulation possesses fluorescent properties. In this way, a beam expansion as a result of multiple scattering in the case of scattered-light-based photographic recordings can be avoided. Instead of this, a sharp-contour imaging of the simulated eye structures is made possible. |
| US08511817B2 |
Recording device
A recording device includes a cassette having a protruding portion; a lever as a transmission member in which the distance from a shaft portion to an abutting portion is shorter than the distance from the shaft portion to a connection portion, the lever transmitting a force that the abutting portion receives from the cassette to the connection portion as an acting force by rotating on shaft portion as the axis when the protruding portion of the cassette abuts on the abutting portion; a damper mechanism portion; a separation slope separating the papers; and a stopper as a restriction member restricting the movement of the papers at an upstream side position in the installation direction of the separation slope, and releasing the restriction on the movement of papers by retreating from the position where the stopper restricts the papers when receiving the acting force from the damper mechanism portion. |
| US08511815B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method
The image forming apparatus forms an image on a surface of a recording medium by using ink and treatment liquid. The ink contains coloring material, and the treatment liquid contains at least one of a component which aggregates the coloring material and a component which increases viscosity of the ink. The image forming apparatus includes: a repellent agent deposition device which deposits a repellent agent onto the recording medium to render the surface of the recording medium liquid-repellent; a treatment liquid droplet ejection device which ejects and deposits droplets of the treatment liquid onto the recording medium on which the repellent agent has been deposited; and an ink droplet ejection device which ejects and deposits droplets of the ink onto the recording medium on which the droplets of the treatment liquid have been deposited. |
| US08511812B2 |
Aqueous ink composition and image forming method
The invention provides an aqueous ink composition including (A) a colorant, (B) a polymer including a hydrophobic structural unit represented by Formula (1) below, (C) a polymerization initiator, (D) a polymerizable compound including an ethylenically unsaturated bond, and (E) water. In the Formula (1), R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; R2 represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an alkyloxy group, an acyl group, or a halogen atom; L1 represents a single bond, or a divalent linkage group including at least one selected from the linkage group consisting of an alkylene group having from 1 to 12 carbon atoms, an alkenylene group having from 2 to 12 carbon atoms, an alkyl ether group having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, —CONR3—, and —COO—; R3 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms; Ar represents a monovalent group derived from a condensed-ring type aromatic compound having 8 or more carbon atoms, a monovalent group derived from a heterocyclic compound in which aromatic rings are condensed, or a monovalent group derived from a compound in which two or more benzene rings are connected. |
| US08511811B2 |
Ink composition, ink set and image forming method
An ink composition including colored particles is disclosed. The colored particles includes a resin dispersant including at least one radically polymerizable group and at least one aromatic partial structure derived from a compound selected from the group consisting of an aromatic hydrocarbon compound, a condensed ring aromatic hydrocarbon compound, an aromatic heterocyclic compound, a condensed ring aromatic heterocyclic compound, and a compound having two or more aromatic hydrocarbon compounds linked to each other; and a colorant. |
| US08511809B2 |
Damping device, liquid supplying apparatus, and droplet discharging apparatus
A damping device includes an elastic membrane that serves as a wall of a part of a supply channel between a reservoir unit that contains liquid and a droplet discharging unit that discharges the liquid in the form of a droplet; a wall portion provided outside of the supply channel such that a gas chamber is provided between the wall portion and the elastic membrane; and a resistance unit provided on the wall portion, the resistance unit providing ventilation and generating a resistance force against a movement of the elastic membrane. |
| US08511806B2 |
Solid ink loader with pull-out drawer for insertion access
A phase change ink imaging device includes an ink loader operatively connected within a housing of the imaging device. At least a portion of the ink loader is configured to be withdrawn from the housing to enable ink stick insertion. |
| US08511799B2 |
Piezoelectric film and method of manufacturing the same, ink jet head, method of forming image by the ink jet head, angular velocity sensor, method of measuring angular velocity by the angular velocity sensor, piezoelectric generating element, and method of generating electric power using the piezoelectric generating element
It is an object of the present invention to provide a lead-free piezoelectric film including a lead-free ferroelectric material and having low dielectric loss and high piezoelectric performance comparable to that of PZT, and a method of manufacturing the lead-free piezoelectric film.The present invention is directed to a piezoelectric film comprising a (NaxBiy)TiO0.5x+1.5y+2—BaTiO3 layer with a (110) orientation, where 0.30≦x≦0. 46 and 0.51≦y≦0.62. |
| US08511796B2 |
Firing cell
A system is provided that includes first means for pre-charging a node to a first potential where the node coupled to a switch configured to control current through a firing resistor and second means for selectively discharging the node to a second potential across a path that has only one transistor between the node and the second potential. |
| US08511795B2 |
Three-dimensional printer
A three-dimensional printer includes an inkjet head and a nozzle plate. The inkjet head includes a top wall and two sidewalls connecting with the top wall. The top wall of the inkjet head includes a top nozzle. Each sidewall includes a side nozzle. The nozzle plate is positioned on an inner surface of the inkjet head. The nozzle plate includes a top area and two opposite side areas connecting with the top area. The top area of the nozzle plate includes a plurality of holes corresponding to the top nozzle of the inkjet head. Each side area of the nozzle plate includes a plurality of holes corresponding to the side nozzle of the inkjet head. |
| US08511793B2 |
Ejection surface cleaning apparatus, liquid ejection apparatus and ejection surface cleaning method
An ejection surface cleaning apparatus for cleaning a liquid ejection surface of a liquid ejection head ejecting an ejection liquid, includes: a cleaning liquid deposition device which deposits a cleaning liquid that dissolves or redisperses the ejection liquid, onto the liquid ejection surface; a wiping device which wipes the liquid ejection surface onto which the cleaning liquid has been deposited; and a control device which controls a leave time from deposition of the cleaning liquid onto the liquid ejection surface until wiping performed by the wiping device. |
| US08511788B2 |
Image recording method and apparatus
An image recording method of recording a desired image on a recording medium by a recording head having recording elements which form pixels on the recording medium, while moving at least one of the recording medium and the recording head relatively to each other in a prescribed conveyance direction, the method includes: a defective recording element information acquisition step of acquiring defective recording element information including position information of defective recording elements included in the recording elements; and a defective recording element compensation step of performing compensation for the defective recording elements by using compensation recording elements in accordance with a distance between a pair of the defective recording elements derived from the position information, the compensation recording elements being of normal recording elements included in the recording elements situated nearby the pair of the defective recording elements. |
| US08511782B2 |
Method for printing on a curved surface
A method for printing on a curved surface includes determining if a surface of a workpiece is curved, cutting an image to be printed into at least two printing areas if the surface is curved, and printing the printing area of the image on each surface of the workpiece. If the surfaces of the workpiece are not curved, the printing system directly prints the image on the workpiece. The printing system includes a rotating mechanism and a printer including an inkjet head having a plurality of nozzles. The workpiece is positioned on the rotating mechanism. The rotating mechanism rotates each surface of the workpiece to face the inkjet head and the inkjet head prints each printing area on it. |
| US08511781B2 |
Printing apparatus having movable sensor and method for using
A printing apparatus including a conveyance mechanism configured to convey a sheet in a predetermined direction, a printing unit configured to print an image on the sheet, a direct sensor having an image pickup device configured to image the sheet, which is used to sense movement of the sheet by signal processing of an output from the image pickup device, a movement mechanism configured to move the image pickup device in a direction including a component of the predetermined direction, and a control unit configured to control the conveyance mechanism, the printing unit, and the movement mechanism. |
| US08511779B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus and printing method
By suppressing deviation of dot-formation positions stemming from insufficient accuracy in conveying a printing medium due to eccentricity of a conveying roller, a printed image in which unevenness is less visible is obtained. An accumulated amount of conveyance errors is decreased by narrowing a nozzle-use range and reducing a conveyance amount over an entire printing region according to a mode used for printing an image in which the coverage of a printing medium is low due to a small number of ink colors to be used, for example, a mode used for printing a monochrome image by using a black ink dominantly in all of the density regions. |
| US08511777B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid ejecting method
A first and a second nozzle array eject a first and a second fluid, respectively. A control section controls the nozzle arrays while relatively shifting a relative position between the nozzle arrays and a medium. When printing normally, the relative position between the nozzle arrays and the medium is shifted towards one side by a transporting distance. When forming a second image using the second fluid over a first image formed using the first fluid, the second image's nozzles are located towards the one side relative to the first image's nozzles. When printing near an edge of the medium, a non-ejection one of the nozzles is located towards the one side of the first image's nozzles, and is located towards the other side of the second image's nozzles. A length of a region to which the non-ejection nozzle belongs is an integral multiple of the transporting distance. |
| US08511775B2 |
Print head, printing device, and printing method
To provide a technique for largely preventing conspicuous banding from appearing in printed images, a print head is provided with three nozzle rows in which a plurality of nozzles are arrayed in a sub-scanning direction, the nozzle rows being spaced apart in a main scanning direction. In two nozzle rows among the three nozzle rows, the positions of the nozzles in the sub-scanning direction are mutually the same, and in one nozzle row among the three nozzle rows, the positions of the nozzles the sub-scanning direction lie between nozzles of the two nozzle rows in the sub-scanning direction. The three nozzle rows can eject ink of the same hue. |
| US08511770B2 |
Bi-directional color printing
A source image is converted to a printable image that is constrained to a bi-directional gamut achievable by both a forward-first print mode and a reverse-first print mode. While the printable image is printed, a print system alternates between forward and reverse passes. The print system uses a forward-first color map during the forward passes and a different reverse-first color map during the reverse passes. |
| US08511767B2 |
Multi-piece basket assembly for a consumer appliance
A consumer appliance, such as a refrigerator, is provided with a compartment with a basket assembly, which may be configured on a pull-out drawer so as to move into and out of the compartment with the pull-out drawer. The basket assembly includes a first basket component and a second basket component releasably engaged with the first basket component along mating edges of the respective basket components, wherein in an engaged state, the first and second basket components define a singular continuous wall basket. At least one of the first or second basket components is releasable and removable from the pull-out drawer. |
| US08511766B2 |
Modular refrigeration device
A refrigeration device is provided with a housing having an interior and at least one housing part. The housing and the at least one housing part are interlinked to form a single unit. A sealing profile is arranged in the form of a frame-type structure between surfaces of the walls of the housing facing each other. The sealing profile consists of a compressible foam strand that is provided with a diffusion-inhibiting membrane extending between the surfaces. |
| US08511757B2 |
Core breaker for a mining machine
A core breaker positioned between cutting drums on a mining machine that includes a generally circular support member, and a beveled blade portion on the radial outward surface of the support member. The beveled blade portion includes a plurality of wedge-shaped portions and a plurality of serrated portions. Each wedge-shaped portion is connected to an adjacent wedge-shaped portion through a mediate serrated portion. Both the wedge-shaped portions and the serrated portions are generally beveled. The wedge-shaped portions and serrated portions maintain curvatures, giving the blade portion a generally undulated appearance. The blade portion has two faces, and can be beveled on a single face. Alternatively, the blade portion can be beveled on each face. The beveled surfaces can be substantially symmetrical or asymmetrical from a view in the radial direction of the generally circular support member. |
| US08511753B2 |
Dismountable chair assembly
A dismountable chair assembly includes a chair frame, back cushion, and seat cushion. The chair frame includes an H-shaped chair frame, two inverse L-shaped front chair feet, and a front transverse shaft. The back cushion is arranged to two upper shafts of the H-shaped chair frame. The lower sides of the two upper shafts are rear chair feet. A middle shaft serves to link the two inverse L-shaped chair feet and support the seat cushion. A bottom side of the seat cushion has a round skirt. Two columns are formed to a front side of the skirt. Two open holes are formed to a rear side of the skirt for being penetrated by the two inverse L-shaped front chair feet. Two rear sides of two inverse L-shaped front chair feet penetrating through the two open holes can be fixed to the middle shaft of the H-shaped chair frame by bolts. |
| US08511750B2 |
Vehicle seat device
A vehicle seat device includes a first arm connected to a first frame forming a framework of a seat cushion, a second arm fixed to a second frame forming a framework of the seatback, a recliner sandwiched therebetween, a drive source providing a rotation in opposing directions therebetween, the first arm rotationally connected to the first frame, a locking mechanism equipped on the first arm and the first frame restricting rotation therebetween when the first arm is rotated to a first rotational end with respect to the first frame, and a control unit driving and controlling the drive source to adjust the inclination angle of the seatback relative to the seat cushion to a predetermined angle range when the locking mechanism is disengaged and the first arm is rotated to a second rotational end with respect to the first frame. |
| US08511749B2 |
Modular child restraint system
A modular child restraint system for use in vehicles comprises a base and interchangeable attachable seats where the seats are for different stages of childhood development. The system can further comprise additional bases adapted to other uses such as strollers and infant swings. A common engagement mechanism allows the various seats to be moved from one base to another. One such system comprises a base and a seat configured to rotate relative to one another when engaged. The seat can also lock in a position relative to the base. The base includes a visual indicator to show that the seat is secured to the base. |
| US08511744B2 |
Body structure for an automobile and method for producing a structural component for a body structure
On a body structure (2) for an automobile (1) having a structural component (3) made of at least high-strength steel sheet, the structural component (3) is provided with a predetermined cutting location (5, 5a, 5b, 5c) for applying a separating tool. In the method for producing the structural component (3), a steel sheet is formed and subjected to heat treatment for forming regions with high strength and reduced strength. At least one region of the structural component (3, 7, 8, 12) with reduced strength is formed as a predetermined cutting location (5, 5a, 5b, 5c) for applying a separating tool during a hot-forming process of a steel sheet in a tool or during heat treatment of the structural component (3, 7, 8, 12) following a forming process in a tool by changing the mechanical properties. |
| US08511743B2 |
Reinforced structure of a motor vehicle
A reinforced structure is disclosed which includes a structural component as well as a reinforcing part that is arranged in a cavity of the structural component. The reinforcing part can include a support part and a connection, the support part being arranged in the cavity such that a distance between the support part and the structural component at a position of the structural component with a higher probability of deforming under a force load from outside on the structural component is shorter than at a position of the structural component with a lower probability of deforming under a force load from the outside. |
| US08511741B2 |
Recreational vehicle having chassis with integral cap
A recreational vehicle having a chassis with integral cap is provided. The recreational vehicle includes a cap having a front end and a back end and a pair of opposing sides. A roof encloses a portion of the top of the cap and the cap defines a driving space. The chassis is designed to house an engine block in a rear thereof, and support a living space thereon. The cap is configured for abutted contact with the living space such that the recreational vehicle has a continuous interior living space that includes the driving space. |
| US08511740B2 |
Vehicle door reinforcement
A vehicle door comprises an outer door panel, and inner door panel, and a reinforcement member. The outer door panel includes a pair of vertically extending free ends and a pair of horizontally extending free ends forming a peripheral edge portion. The inner door panel is rigidly attached to the peripheral edge portion of the outer door panel such that an internal door cavity is defined between the outer and inner door panels. The reinforcement member is disposed in the internal door cavity. The reinforcement member includes a first attachment portion rigidly attached to an inner surface of the outer door panel at a first location adjacent the peripheral edge portion of the outer door panel, and a second attachment portion rigidly attached to an inner surface of the inner door panel at a second location. |
| US08511736B2 |
Rigid tonneau cover and clamp mechanism therefor
A tonneau cover for selectively enclosing a space within a cargo box. The cover has an elongate channel laterally extending between a proximate end located proximate a side edge of the cover and a distal end at which the channel terminates. The cover includes a clamp mechanism slidably engaged with the channel, and the clamp mechanism includes a handle, a block member slidably received in the channel, an elongate rod member coupled to the handle, and a latch or hook member connected to the rod member. The latch member is moveable between a clamped position for operatively engaging a portion of the cargo box and a released position for spacing the latch member from and placing the latch member out of operative engagement with the cargo box. The handle and rod member are positioned in the channel in the clamp mechanism stowed position. |
| US08511732B2 |
Pick-up style utility vehicle with expandable cargo bed
A pick-up type utility vehicle with an expandable cargo bed. The pick-up type utility vehicle includes a front seat, a rear seat; a cargo bed, and a screen separating the rear seat and the cargo bed. The pick-up type utility vehicle further includes an operating part for moving the screen, and a movement mechanism moving the screen in the front and back direction by operation of the operating part. |
| US08511730B2 |
Apparatus and method for engaging and handling articles of manufacture
Apparatus and method for engaging an article. The apparatus has a base portion, an end portion disposed adjacent the base portion. The end portion is moveable in relation to the base portion generally along the longitudinal centerline. One or more bands are joined to and extend between the base portion and the end portion. At least one of the bands bends away from the longitudinal centerline when the end portion is moved toward the base portion from the disengaged configuration to the activated configuration. |
| US08511719B2 |
Flow-passage connecting device and liquid ejecting apparatus including the same
A flow-passage connecting device for connecting flow passages of first and second members, including: a joint to be attached at one end to an end portion of the passage of the first member and to be connected at the other end to the passage of the second member, the joint having a hollow space through which a fluid flows; a joint support portion for supporting the joint when the joint is attached, such that a positional adjustment of the joint in a direction perpendicular to a joint attachment direction is permitted within a first position-adjust range; and a position-adjust-range limiting portion disposed distant from the end portion of the passage of the first member in a direction opposite to the attachment direction and configured to limit the positional adjustment of the joint in the perpendicular direction within a second position-adjust range smaller than the first range when the joint is attached. |
| US08511716B2 |
Connection device for fluid lines in the region of a wall duct and wall element
A connection arrangement for a wall passage, in particular for positioning with a through-opening of a wall element and for the connection of at least one media conduit. The connection arrangement including a connector part with a first connection section that is to be passed through the through-opening, and an oppositely placed second connection section with a contact element for limiting the amount of insertion at the wall element, as well as with a retaining element for locking the connector part in its assembly position, where it is inserted into the through-opening. The connector part includes at least two separate parts, an installation part for retention in the through-opening of the wall element and a connection part, which can be connected to the installation part, and which further contains the connection sections. |
| US08511714B2 |
Connector assemblies for flow restricting apparatuses
A connector assembly for a flow restricting apparatus is disclosed. The flow restricting apparatus comprises an outlet configured to be in fluid communication with an outlet conduit. The connector assembly comprises a first member configured to be engaged with the flow restricting apparatus at least partially about the outlet. The first member comprises a first face, a second face, and a bore defined through the first member. The connector assembly comprises a second member comprising a first side, a second side, a bore defined through the second member, at least one projection extending outwardly from the first side of the second member, and sealing means for sealing positioned intermediate the first member and the second member. The at least one projection forms a receiving portion configured to receive a portion of the first member. |
| US08511712B2 |
Mixture of magnetically orientable color shifting flakes and non-magnetically orientable color shifting flakes exhibiting a common color
Pigment flakes are blended together wherein some are magnetically alignable and exhibit a color shift from a first color to a second color with a change in viewing angle; and some are pigment flakes which exhibit a color shift from the first color to a third color or vice versa with a change in viewing angle, wherein the first, second and third colors are three different colors. The flakes are coated upon a substrate and magnetically alignable flakes are magnetically aligned. The non-magnetically alignable flakes are not aligned by the magnetic field and lie flat upon the substrate they are coated on. By judiciously selecting the angle upon which the magnetic flakes are oriented, an effect is created whereby an observer sees a color shift from a first color to a second or a first color to a third, when orienting the substrate by tilting it at different particular angles. The coated substrate can be used in security applications such as on currency or secure instruments. |
| US08511711B2 |
Carrier frame of a utility vehicle
A utility vehicle (1) comprising a carrier frame (3) mounted above a transaxle (2) is provided. The carrier frame (3) comprises a first carrier frame section (30) and a second carrier frame section (40). A height level of the first carrier frame section (30) differs from a height level of the second carrier frame section (40). |
| US08511708B2 |
Passenger airbag module
A passenger airbag module includes a housing, an inflator generating gas pressure according to a control signal of an electronic control unit, and an airbag cushion folded in the housing such that the airbag cushion is expanded in the form of a dual chamber. The airbag cushion is provided therein with a tether having a rectangular shape corresponding to a sectional shape of the airbag cushion. The tether is installed in the transverse direction to divide the airbag cushion into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. Transfer holes are formed at edges of the tether. In the passenger airbag module, the upper chamber is primarily expanded by concentrating gas flow into the upper chamber to instantly deploy the airbag cushion in the proper position, thereby safely protecting the occupants. |
| US08511705B2 |
Wheel automatic adjustment mechanism and foldable motorized vehicle having same
An automatic wheel adjustment mechanism mounted between two front wheels and a front wheel stem of a foldable motorized vehicle, comprising: (a) a front wheel supporting shaft having a bearing housing positioned on the top center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion positioned on the front wheel supporting shaft, (b) a connecting member having a ring on one end and a connecting shaft on other end, wherein the connecting shaft extends upwards to form a connecting portion, and (c) a plurality of bearings, wherein outer races of the bearings is fixed at the center portion of the front wheel supporting shaft, the ring of the connecting member is connected to the lower end of the front wheel stem, the connecting shaft of the connecting member passes through and fixedly connected to the inner races of the plurality of the bearings. |
| US08511703B2 |
Sliding hitch assembly
Examples of sliding hitch assemblies, and locking mechanisms therefor are disclosed. Sliding hitch assemblies include a pair of slide rails slidably supporting a fifth wheel. Each of the slide rails in turn includes a driving position locking pin that selectively locks the fifth wheel in a driving position, and a maneuvering position locking pin that selectively locks the fifth wheel in a maneuvering position. A cam member is slidably mounted inside each slide rail, and includes a first cam surface that unlocks the driving position locking pin when the cam member is in a first position, and a second cam surface that unlocks the maneuvering position locking pin when the cam member is in a second position. The fifth wheel is mounted on a pair of downwardly facing U-shaped members slidably supported on the slide rails, and a wear block is interposed each slide rail and a corresponding one of the U-shaped members. An adjustable element may be moved relative to the corresponding one of the U-shaped members to stay adjacent the one of slide rails as the wear block wears during use. |
| US08511702B1 |
Anti-jackknife system for backing-up a trailer
The anti jackknife system has locking mechanisms which automatically lock caster type wheels at the rear of a trailer in a fixed position in the direction parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the trailer and to the line of direction of travel of the tow vehicle pulling the trailer forward. In this forward configuration the tongue of the trailer freely rotates on a trailer hitch insert. In a back up configuration a locking mechanism automatically locks the trailer tongue into linear alignment with the trailer hitch insert. The caster type wheels rotate freely about a vertical axis, and when the trailer is backed up by the tow vehicle the trailer will stay in linear alignment with the tow vehicle. The caster type wheels will automatically turn in a direction corresponding to the front wheels of the tow vehicle, thereby completely preventing jackknifing of the trailer. |
| US08511697B2 |
Arrangement of a stabilizer on a wheel suspension for motor vehicles
The invention relates to an arrangement of a stabilizer (26), which is configured in two parts, on a wheel suspension for a motor vehicle, comprising torsion bars (26b) which are separated from each other and are each articulated on wheel suspension elements (16) by means of an output lever (26a) and can be co-rotated in the same or opposite direction by means of associated actuating devices (30), wherein each torsion bar (26b) is extended with a hollow shaft (26e) which encompasses the torsion bar (26b) in order to increase the effective torsion length, the output lever (26a) being formed on the hollow shaft. According to the invention, the torsion bar (26b) is mounted in a fixed bearing (59) in the actuating device (30) and in an axial loose bearing (26d) in the hollow shaft (26e). |
| US08511695B2 |
Scooter handlebar holder
A scooter features a top tube attached to the top portion of a steering column and handlebars having handgrips and stems, with the stems sized to be received within the open ends of the top tube when in a use configuration. A handlebar holder housing covers a top portion of the steering column and a portion of the top tube and includes holding bores sized to receive the handlebar stems when the handlebars are in a storage configuration. The handlebar stems are provided with spring pins that engage use apertures and storage apertures formed in the top tube and housing, respectively, when in the handlebars are in the use and storage configurations. A cord passes through the top tube and is fastened to the handlebars. The handlebar holder housing includes cord slots in communication with the holding bores and receive the cord when the first and second handlebars are in the storage configuration. |
| US08511692B2 |
Drill chuck
A chuck including a body having a tail section and a nose section defining an axial bore. A plurality of jaws are movably disposed with respect to the axial bore and a nut is in threaded engagement with the jaws. A sleeve engages the nut so that rotation of the sleeve moves the jaws. A first ring defines a plurality of teeth and a second ring is rotatable relative to the nut over a limited arc and defines at least one pawl. In a first state, the second ring is non-rotatable relative to the first ring in both the opening and closing directions, and in a second state the first and second rings are rotatable about the body, and the second ring is rotatable relative to the first ring in the closing direction. |
| US08511690B2 |
Simplified low insertion force sealing device capable of self restraint and joint deflection
A conduit coupling system, sealing device, bell and method of use are disclosed herein. The system comprises at least two piping components, and a sealing device. A first component has a bell and a second component has a spigot, the spigot is adapted to mate with the bell. The bell comprises a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to the first component. The bell has a concave annular inner surface and a diameter of the annular inner surface adjacent to the first end of the bell is greater than a diameter of the annular inner surface adjacent to the second end of the bell. The sealing device comprises a locking segment comprising a convex outer surface and a K-type gasket coupled to a locking segment or a non-restraining anti-extrusion segment. The sealing device is adapted to fit between the bell and the spigot. |
| US08511689B2 |
Shaft sealing apparatus
A shaft sealing apparatus of including a first mechanical seal having a mating ring disposed at the sealed fluid side and which rotates along with a shaft as the inner circumference side thereof is fixed to the shaft side, and a sealing ring disposed at the air side with respect to the mating ring and is slidable against the mating ring and which does not rotate along with the shaft. An annular space in which the sealed fluid exists is formed at the outer circumferential face side of the first mechanical seal. The shaft sealing apparatus further includes a protection cover disposed adjacent to the sealed fluid side of the seal cover in a state of being sealed with the seal cover and with the first mechanical seal respectively by an O-ring so as to suppress exposure of the seal cover to the sealed fluid. |
| US08511688B2 |
Intermittent sealing device
An exemplary embodiment disclosed herein relates to an articulatable sealing device. The device includes a plurality of seal elements each of which is urgable against a seal-surface, a fixing member tightenable about a perimeter of the seal elements, and a retractor in operable communication with the plurality of seal elements and able to move the plurality of seal elements in a desired direction. |
| US08511686B2 |
Game board
A gaming apparatus including a top surface and four side walls connected each other and to the top, the top having a game surface such as a 64 block checkerboard pattern of a first and second color, the game surface having cutouts; eight rods running crossways under the top surface and attached to two side walls; multiple rollers accessible to a player through the cutouts in the top surface. Preferably the game surface is angled on two opposing sides of each cutout to aid in rotation of the rollers underneath the game surface. The game apparatus may be adopted to play checkers, chess, backgammon or similar games. The game apparatus may also be embedded into tables or walls. |
| US08511685B2 |
Stellated icosahedron puzzle
A stellated icosahedron puzzle has a plurality of assembled together parts forming in an assembled condition a stellated icosahedron, the assemblies including six mated together hollow octahedron assemblies and twelve hollow pyramid assemblies located on the hollow octahedron assemblies rotatable around each of the octahedron assembly via pivot shafts of the octahedron assemblies and stoppable every 180° of rotation, and the pyramid assemblies being independently attachable to and detachable from each of the pivot shafts. |
| US08511682B2 |
Roulette board and method for controlling the same
A roulette board, including a roulette wheel on which a plurality of symbols are arranged in a circumferential direction of the roulette wheel, a plurality of ball reception portions that are provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of symbols, the plurality of ball reception portions being configured to receive a ball that rolls on the roulette wheel, a banked passage that is endlessly provided along an outer circumference of the roulette wheel, and allows the ball to roll in a circumferential orbit, and a ball discharging mechanism that is provided with a ball discharging member and discharges the ball received in one of the plurality of ball reception portions from the one of the plurality of ball reception portions toward the banked passage by bringing the ball discharging member into contact with the ball. |
| US08511679B2 |
Sheet processing device
A sheet processing device in the form of an offset stacker, a sheet fence (103, 104) is provided on a side of sheets (S) to be processed stacked on a stack tray (3) opposite from a jogger (101, 102) so that the sheet fence accurately defines a final offset position of the sheets. When a transient offset position at which the sheets are stacked on the stack tray varies from one sheet to another, the side edges of sheets selected for offset stacking can be lined up without fail owing to the jogging action of the jogger and the supporting action of the sheet fence. A pair of joggers may be arranged on either side of the sheets, along with a pair of corresponding sheets fences on the opposing sides. The jogger and sheet fence on a same side may be supported by a common moveable frame (107, 108). |
| US08511674B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus with retard roller
The present invention provides a sheet feeding apparatus and an image forming apparatus enabling to prevent generating a dent at a retard roller. When a sheet feeding operation is started, a driving motor normally rotates, and a swing arm is moved to a first position to cause a retard roller to press to a feed roller by a C input gear and a C gear. Also, when the sheet feeding operation is finished, the driving motor reversely rotates, and the swing arm is moved to a second position to cause the retard roller to separate from the feed roller. |
| US08511660B2 |
Elevating mechanism for jaws for clamping mouldings
The mechanism for a machine for stapling two moldings (21, 22) comprises a surface (10), for supporting the moldings (21, 22), and a linkage for operating two jaws (6, 7) in a functional plane (25) essentially parallel to the surface (10) in order to push the two respective moldings (21, 22) sideways towards respective functional positions against two respective side stops (2, 3) that extend in mutually inclined directions, and in order thereafter following the stapling, to draw back from the stops (2, 3) and return to a rest position; the linkage comprising elevating elements designed to move the jaws (6, 7), under the action of drive elements (50, 51), in a direction (70) perpendicular to the functional plane (25), so that the jaws (6, 7) are thus retracted, in the rest position, out of the functional plane (25). |
| US08511655B2 |
Bicycle seat post
A seat post is disclosed. The seat post includes a pneumatic cylinder, a hollow pneumatic piston, a gap, a seal, a hydraulic cylinder, a hollow hydraulic piston, and a valve. The gap exists between the pneumatic cylinder and the pneumatic piston and communicates with the inside of the pneumatic piston. The seal is disposed at the pneumatic cylinder for sealing the gap. The hydraulic cylinder is disposed in the pneumatic piston and communicates with the inside of the pneumatic piston. One end of the hydraulic piston passes through pneumatic piston and is inserted into the hydraulic cylinder. The other end is disposed in the pneumatic cylinder and communicates with the inside of the pneumatic cylinder. The valve connects the pneumatic piston and the hydraulic cylinder for opening or closing the communication between the pneumatic piston and the hydraulic cylinder. |
| US08511652B2 |
Gas spring and gas damper assembly and method
A gas spring and gas clamper assembly includes a first end member, a second end member, a first flexible wall that at least partially defines a first spring chamber, and a second flexible wall that at least partially defines a second spring chamber. A damper piston and damper rod are operatively connected between the first and second end members and within the first spring chamber. A suspension system that includes a gas spring and gas damper assembly as well as a method of assembly are also included. |
| US08511651B2 |
Heater unit humidification chamber monitor
A heater unit is adapted to determine if a humidification chamber thermally coupled to a hot plate of the heater unit is effectively dry based on determining a thermal response of a hot plate of the heater unit. Also, the activation period during which the hot plate is being heated is adjusted toward an optimum period by adjusting the energization or power level to the heater element thereof in relation to the duration of a prior activation period. Further, the air flow rate of gas through the humidification chamber may be estimated based on a temperature of the hot plate determined in predetermined relationship to the beginning of an activation period. |
| US08511648B2 |
Fence system
A fence system includes a first extruded lineal extending lengthwise along a first longitudinal axis. The first lineal has a sidewall with at least a first slot in the sidewall and the first slot extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The fence system also includes a second extruded lineal extending lengthwise along a second longitudinal axis. The second extruded lineal includes at least a corresponding first attachment leg extending outward from the second extruded lineal and parallel to the second longitudinal axis. The first attachment leg is integrally extruded with the second extruded lineal and is received in the first slot to secure together the first and second extruded lineals. |
| US08511639B2 |
Adaptor for use with a valve fitment
This invention relates to an adaptor used in a fitment valve assembly, said adaptor comprising an outer ring collar having a top and a bottom, and an outer and an inner surface; a flange molded to the bottom of said outer ring collar; an interior ring collar having a top and a bottom, and an outer and an inner surface molded in adjacent relationship to said outer ring collar near the top of said interior ring collar; an inverted dome structure molded toward the bottom of said inner surface of said interior ring collar defining at least one opening for the flow of fluid there-through; a groove for an O-ring molded in said inner surface of said interior ring collar above said dome structure; a lip molded onto said bottom of said interior ring collar for forming a seal with said fitment valve assembly; and a groove for an O-ring molded in said outer surface at the bottom of said interior ring collar. |
| US08511637B2 |
Horizontally and vertically adjustable bearing
A bearing (3), preferably elastomeric, which can be employed in machine construction (1), in particular for generators of wind turbines. The bearing (3), owing to its design, can be positioned both in the vertical and also in the horizontal direction under load at any time in such a way that any present drive/gear shafts are aligned with one another. |
| US08511635B2 |
Holding device for fastening a laser instrument
A holding device for fastening a laser instrument, in particular to a magnetic construction, a pipe, a wall rail or ceiling rail, and/or a wall, is disclosed. The holding device includes a basic frame, a receptacle device connected to the basic frame to accommodate the laser instrument, a first fastening device connected to the basic frame and a second fastening device connected to the basic frame. At least the first or second fastening device is configured to be adjustable in a vertical direction relative to the basic frame. |
| US08511634B2 |
Antenna holder
An antenna holder to be mounted on a car body part of a motor vehicle having an opening, in particular a motor vehicle roof, having an antenna base and an anchoring device projecting beyond the antenna base, whose outer cross section is smaller than the opening cross section of the opening. The preassembled anchoring device includes an anchoring claw having a plurality of spreadable arms, a spreading element for spreading apart the arms and an actuating member for the approach of the spreading element to the antenna base while the spreading apart of the arms takes place. |
| US08511633B2 |
Accessory attachment mechanism
A low profile accessory attachment mechanism suitable for attaching an accessory to an electronic device is disclosed. A straight hook and a curved hook are configured to mechanically engage slots in an electronic device, joining the accessory to the electronic device. By moving one of the hooks or altering the configuration of a slot, the accessory and electronic device may be separated. Additionally, the hooks may carry electrical current. |
| US08511632B2 |
Suspension system and method for suspending an inner vessel inside an outer vessel of a cryostat
A suspension system for a cryostat includes a coupling mechanism, a fixation body, and a pin. The coupling mechanism is joined to an outer vessel and coupled with a strap. The fixation body is joined to an inner vessel. The fixation body extends between a front side that faces the coupling mechanism and an opposite receiving side with an interior channel extending from the receiving side to the front side. The channel defines a front opening in the front side and a rear opening in the receiving side. The pin is loaded into the fixation body through the rear opening in the receiving side of the fixation body with the strap looped around the pin and extending through the front opening to the coupling mechanism. The pin secures the coupling mechanism to the fixation body via the strap by engaging the fixation body inside the channel. |
| US08511631B2 |
Assembling structure of clip and mounting member
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembling structure including: a mounting member having a mounting seat; and a clip having a head and a leg. The head includes: a neck portion; and first and second flanges outwardly protrudes therefrom to sandwich the mounting seat therebetween, wherein the mounting seat includes: a hole having a diameter larger than that of the neck portion; a groove formed to communicate the hole with outside the mounting seat; and a projection protruding from a peripheral edge of the hole, wherein the second flange includes: an inner face radially-outwardly extending therefrom to gradually come close to the first flange; a top portion; and an outer face further extending to gradually separate from the first flange, and wherein the inner face abuts the projection in an assembled state. |
| US08511628B2 |
Anchor point
An anchor point has a foot, an elongated absorbing element, and a coupling feature for attaching a coupling element to the means of absorbing energy. The elongated absorbing element is provided with plates which extend radially and are situated axially at a distance from each other, and a casing that is situated about the absorbing element and is attached to the foot at a first end and at the second end is connected to an end of the absorbing element in such a way that it can be detached. The absorbing element is attached to a safety device at the other end with which the absorbing element is secured to the casing to prevent twisting. The safety device is provided with a locking device for locking the pin in the absorbing element. |
| US08511625B2 |
Holding device for medical instruments
A holding device for medical instruments, with a bracket on which at least one medical instrument can be affixed and with at least one joint to position the bracket and/or the medical instrument, so that the at least one joint is configured as a ball and socket joint that is provided with at least one bearing shell and a pivot ball and that can be converted between a position that releases the joint and one that blocks the joint. To provide a holding device for medical instruments that is simple to operate, makes possible a rapid blocking and releasing of the at least one joint, and in addition ensures that unintentional release of the blocking is excluded to the greatest extent possible, it is proposed with the invention that the bearing shell should be of rigid configuration and the pivot ball should be capable of being affixed in the bearing shell by clamping by at least one blocking element. |
| US08511622B2 |
Method and device for detecting the derailment of a guided vehicle
A vehicle that is guided by a guiding system is monitored for derailment. The guiding system has a guiding member interacting with a railhead of a rail that guides the vehicle. The device includes a clamp with a bottom jaw tightly surrounding the railhead in a contactless manner in the closed position thereof, capable of opening the jaw when interaction is lost between the guiding member and the rail. The opening results when the railhead at least partially exits the jaw. A top rod of the clamp enables mechanical transmission of the opening of the jaw to a switch. The switch has a nominal configuration corresponding to the closed position of the clamp during correct re-railing and an alarm configuration generated by mechanical transmission of the opening of the jaw to the switch. The alarm configuration actuates a safety system of the guided vehicle. |
| US08511621B2 |
Device for piloting a craft having an electromagnetic actuator
A device for piloting includes a piloting member connected to at least one member for driving the craft, an electromechanical support box including, for each pivot connection, at least one actuating motor of the piloting member constituted of an electromagnetic actuator including a movable armature integrally formed with the piloting member and equipped with at least one permanent magnet having a magnetic moment parallel to the axis of the pivot connection, and an electromagnetic circuit including a fixed armature, arranged to allow the movable armature to move in the air gap zone, the magnetic moment of the movable armature sweeping each radial surface portion, and at least one coil winding which is dependent in position on the fixed armature and is capable of generating electromagnetic torque on the movable armature. |
| US08511619B2 |
Slat deployment mechanism
An aircraft slat deployment mechanism including a first drive member coupled to a slat at a first pivot point and a second drive member coupled to the slat at a second pivot point offset from the first pivot point. A first rack is provided on the first drive member, and a first pinion is carried by the drive shaft. The first pinion is arranged to transmit mechanical power from the drive shaft to the first drive member via the first rack. A second rack is provided on the second drive member, and a second pinion is carried by the drive shaft. The second pinion has a different radius to the first pinion. The second pinion is arranged to transmit mechanical power from the drive shaft to the second drive member via the second rack, such that the first and second drive members move at a different speed. |
| US08511617B2 |
Satellites and satellite fleet implementation methods and apparatus
A method for implementing a satellite fleet includes launching a group of satellites within a launch vehicle. In an embodiment, the satellites are structurally connected together through satellite outer load paths. After separation from the launch vehicle, nodal separation between the satellites is established by allowing one or more of the satellites to drift at one or more orbits having apogee altitudes below an operational orbit apogee altitude. A satellite is maintained in an ecliptic normal attitude during its operational life, in an embodiment. The satellite's orbit is efficiently maintained by a combination of axial, radial, and canted thrusters, in an embodiment. Satellite embodiments include a payload subsystem, a bus subsystem, an outer load path support structure, antenna assembly orientation mechanisms, an attitude control subsystem adapted to maintain the satellite in the ecliptic normal attitude, and an orbit maintenance/propulsion subsystem adapted to maintain the satellite's orbit. |
| US08511616B2 |
Solar powered excess electron emission device
The chassis of a spacecraft has one side exposed to ultraviolet photons and another side shielded from the ultraviolet photons. An electrically conductive surface is disposed on the exposed side of the chassis and is electrically isolated from the chassis. A field-emission array device has a gate, an emitter array, a first terminal electrically connected to the gate, and a second terminal electrically connected to the emitter array. The first terminal electrically couples the gate to the electrically conductive surface on the exposed side of the chassis, and the second terminal electrically couples the emitter array to a surface on the shielded side of the chassis. The emitter array discharges electrons from the surface on the shielded side when a voltage difference in excess of a threshold voltage develops between the gate and the emitter array because of differential charging of the exposed and shielded sides of the chassis. |
| US08511615B2 |
Deployable structure forming an antenna equipped with a solar generator for a satellite
A deployable structure with panels forming an antenna equipped with a solar generator includes: a set of antenna panels each having a substantially rectangular useful surface, the antenna panels abutting each other on first sides parallel to each other, at least one photovoltaic solar panel, each photovoltaic solar panel abutting an antenna panel on a second side of said antenna panel perpendicular to the first sides, first articulation systems, each of said articulation systems enabling an antenna panel to be caused to pivot relative to an adjacent antenna panel about an axis substantially parallel to the first sides of said antenna panels, a second articulation system for each photovoltaic solar panel, each of said articulation systems enabling a photovoltaic solar panel to be caused to pivot relative to the antenna panel that it abuts about an axis substantially parallel to the second side of said antenna panel. |
| US08511613B2 |
Modular externally accessible batteries for an aircraft
An aircraft comprises an airframe, an electric propulsion system, a number of battery pods, and an engagement system. The number of battery pods has a physical connector system. The engagement system is attached to the airframe and is capable of engaging the physical connector system to connect the number of battery pods to the airframe. |
| US08511612B2 |
Shock wave modification method and system
A shock wave in a gas is modified by emitting energy to form an extended path in the gas; heating gas along the path to form a volume of heated gas expanding outwardly from the path; and directing a path. The volume of heated gas passes through the shock wave and modifies the shock wave. This eliminates or reduces a pressure difference between gas on opposite sides of the shock wave. Electromagnetic, microwaves and/or electric discharge can be used to heat the gas along the path. This application has uses in reducing the drag on a body passing through the gas, noise reduction, controlling amount of gas into a propulsion system, and steering a body through the gas. An apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US08511611B2 |
Slot seal
A panel assembly for an aircraft comprises a panel rotatably connected to a support structure and moveable between a first position and a second position. The panel has an aerodynamic surface with a slot at one edge thereof which receives a portion of the support structure when the panel is in the first position. The assembly further comprises a resilient seal member which occupies the slot when the panel is in the second position. The panel may be an aircraft flight control surface, or an aircraft landing gear bay door. |
| US08511607B2 |
UAV launch attachment assembly and launch system
A UAV attachment assembly, used with a UAV launch assembly comprising a frame and a launch driver, comprises a base, a UAV support, a biasing element, a coupler, and a retainer. The base is operably coupled to the launch driver. The UAV support is mounted to the base and is placeable in vertically collapsed and vertically extended orientations. The biasing element biases the UAV support towards the collapsed orientation. The coupler releasably couples the UAV support to a UAV when the UAV support is in the extended orientation, the UAV support being free of the UAV when in the collapsed orientation. The retainer maintains the UAV support in the vertically extended orientation prior to launch and releases the UAV support at launch so that the biasing element can cause the UAV support to move towards the collapsed orientation and to disengage from the UAV. |
| US08511600B2 |
Dispenser that automatically transfers rolls of absorbent material, method of reloading same, and rolls of absorbent material for use in same
A two-roll toilet paper dispenser automatically transfers a new roll into dispensing position once the previous roll is spent or nearly spent. A spring-loaded plate senses the decreasing diameter of the first roll, and once it reaches a predetermined minimum, actuates a linkage that permits a mandrel carrying the two rolls to drop down within the dispenser body and position the second roll for dispensing. The mandrel and track structure permits reloading the dispenser without removing the mandrel. The rolls of toilet paper have adapter plugs in one end only, to ensure that the rolls are placed in the correct orientation within the dispenser. |
| US08511598B2 |
System for dispensing paper rolls with conductive tubes
The invention relates to a system of dispensing a product rolled around an element such as a tube (50), such product defining a structure such as a cylinder, and such system comprising in particular: a frame, a means of support and connection of the roll in the frame. It is claimed for the invention that the tube (50) includes an electrically conductive element (50c) designed to operate in conjunction with an element of the frame so as together to form an electric circuit element. |
| US08511597B2 |
Apparatus for fracturing polycrystalline silicon and method for producing fractured fragments of polycrystalline silicon
An apparatus for fracturing polycrystalline silicon having a pair of rolls which are rotated in a counter direction each other around parallel axes, the rolls is provided with: a plurality of disks layered along the axes of the rolls; and a plurality of fracturing teeth protruding radially-outwardly from the disks with a certain intervals along a peripheral direction of the disks, wherein the disks are rotated at different rotation speed from an adjacent disks, and the apparatus fracturing fragments of polycrystalline silicon between the rolls. |
| US08511596B2 |
Drip tape management
The illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide a method and apparatus for managing drip tape. A vehicle is configured to move across a field. A drip tape collection system is associated with the vehicle configured to raise a portion of the drip tape from the ground in a field. A chopper is configured to separate the portion of the drip tape received from the drip tape collection system into a plurality of pieces and enable the plurality of pieces to decompose. |
| US08511595B2 |
Refiner and method for refining fibrous material
A refiner (1, 18, 19) for refining fibrous material has at least one first refining surface (11) and at least one second refining surface (4), which are arranged at least partly substantially opposite to one another in such a manner that a refiner chamber (12) is formed between them, to which the material to be defibrated is arranged to be fed. The first refining surface or the second refining surface has openings formed through them and through which fibrous material to be refined can be fed into the refiner chamber or through which refined fibrous material can be removed from the refiner chamber. In addition, a method for refining fibrous material, a refining surface of a refiner and a blade segment for a refiner. |
| US08511594B2 |
Pressure monitor for pulverizer
Load cells are placed in the pre-compression systems of spring suspended rollers in coal/ore crusher/classifiers to produce electrical signals representing actual forces generated in the suspension system during crusher operation. This permits forces to be closely monitored during operation and/or automatically adjusted. Alternatively or in addition, alarm signals can be generated when pressures go out of tolerance. |
| US08511589B2 |
Apparatus for spreading granular materials from vehicle
A material spreader is adapted to dispense granular material from a vehicle. The material spreader includes a feed chute having a discharge opening and a discharge disc assembly disposed below the feed chute. The discharge disc assembly includes a spinner disc adapted to receive granular material from the feed chute, a shroud disposed in at least partial covering relation to the spinner disc, and a rotational drive operatively connected to the spinner disc such that the spinner disc is rotatable within the shroud about a rotational axis. The shroud includes a pass-through opening disposed in substantially aligned relation with the discharge opening of the feed chute at a position radially removed from the central rotational axis. The discharge disc assembly is rotatably mounted in pivoting relation about a pivot axis extending through the pass-through opening and the discharge opening of the feed chute. |
| US08511587B2 |
Showerhead assembly
A shower head has a nozzle, a shell, a water inlet, and an assembly for holding the nozzle. The assembly has an upper plate made of a first plastic material and has a first opening having a first diameter through which the nozzle extends, a lower plate made of a second plastic material and has a second opening through which the nozzle extends, and an elastomeric middle plate has a third opening having a third diameter that is smaller than the first or second diameter through which the nozzle extends and is in contact therewith. The first material and the second material are ultrasonically welded together to trap the middle plate therebetween and the first opening, the second opening and the third opening are roughly coaxial with each other. |
| US08511586B2 |
Disc shaped regulated drip irrigation emitter
A drip irrigation emitter includes a disc shaped body having a pressure reducing labyrinth between a water inlet area and an outlet hole, and a pressure regulating diaphragm changing flow through the outlet hole in response to water pressure fluctuations in the water conduit where the emitter is mounted. The water filtering inlet of the emitter is located entirely at the sides of the disc shaped body. |
| US08511583B2 |
Fine droplet atomizer for liquid precursor vaporization
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method for forming a droplet aerosol for vaporization and subsequent thin film deposition on a substrate. The apparatus includes a mechanism to control the rate of liquid flow through the apparatus, the mechanism including a piezoelectric actuator to adjust the rate of liquid flow and an atomizing mechanism drawing gas from a compressed gas source such that when the gas source conjoins with the liquid, the liquid is atomized to form droplets suspended in the gas thereby forming a droplet aerosol suitable for subsequent thin film deposition on a substrate. The method includes drawing a gas from a compressed gas source and drawing a liquid from a liquid source. The liquid and gas are conjoined in either a coaxial flow relationship or a radial flow relationship or an angular relationship between radial and coaxial flow wherein the gas engages the liquid to form droplets suitable for vaporization and subsequent thin film deposition on a substrate. |
| US08511580B2 |
Container of active substances
Comprises a vessel (1) that houses the active liquid substance to be diffused, such as a fragrance, insecticide or other, through a breathable membrane (2) that closes the vessel (1) and comprises a porous part (3) placed near and parallel to the breathable membrane (2) in order to prevent the deformation of the membrane (2) when a vacuum is generated as the vessel (1) is emptied. The porous part (3) has a number of openings (4) through which passes the liquid to ensure its contact with the membrane (2) at all times for a homogenous evaporation and it occupies part of the volume of the vessel (1), absorbing the active substances, the non-volatile substances remaining in said porous part (3) after the vessel (1) has no more volatile components. |
| US08511577B2 |
Thermostat with power stealing delay interval at transitions between power stealing states
A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may include an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. |
| US08511570B2 |
Transponder, transponder kit, method of applying the transponder and product comprising the transponder
The invention concerns a transponder (10), kit and method for marking wood material, such as logs. The transponder comprises a rigid casing adapted to be inserted into the wood material by means of impact, the casing comprising a wedge-shaped first edge (12) adapted to penetrate into the wood material due to said impact, and a second edge (16) opposite to the first edge, the first and second edges (12, 16) defining an insertion direction of the transponder, and radio-frequency trans-ponding means (20) covered by the casing. According to the invention, the casing is elongated in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. The transponder is easily applicable into a log and stays well within the log. |
| US08511568B2 |
Sensor tag multiplane imaging system
When a conventional sensor or tag is sandwiched by a plurality of metal planes, the condition is deteriorated and the sensitivity is lowered. Provided is multiplane imaging system using MISEMAS (Multi-Image Effect and Separation Method for Magnetic Sensor and Tag) in which the sensitivity is not lowered, but rather enhanced, and it is possible to separate and select each of the tags without causing interference with adjacent sensor coils SC1, SC2, SC3, SC4 or tags R1, R2, R3, R4, thereby enabling an effective use of a current on the metal surface and a magnetic path. |
| US08511564B2 |
System including semiconductor devices and controller and method for operating the same
A semiconductor device includes a device identification detection code output block configured to output a device identification detection code to an outside of the semiconductor device when the semiconductor device enters an identification (ID) read mode, a code comparison block configured to compare a device selection code applied from the outside with the device identification detection code when the semiconductor device enters a device selection mode, and generate a device matching signal based on a comparison result, and an internal circuit block configured to decide whether to perform a predetermined internal operation based on the device matching signal when the semiconductor device enters an operation control mode. |
| US08511562B2 |
Layered two-dimensional code, creation method thereof, and read method
The present invention provides a layered two-dimensional code which can be considerably improved in the data capacity thereof without increasing the area thereof by integrating a plurality of two-dimensional codes by a predetermined correlation and expressing it as one two-dimensional code, a method of creating the layered two-dimensional code, and a method of reading the layered two-dimensional code. The layered two-dimensional code is formed as a surface layer by layering a plurality of code layers (for example, code layers 1, 2, and 3) each having information cells (1a′, 1a″, and the like) arranged in a two-dimensional matrix and by integrating the plurality of code layers. An index information code 1c essentially including the information of an RGB value of each code layer is included at one part of the surface layer. When the information cells (1a′ and 1a″) of the code layers 1 and 2 are superposed. |
| US08511559B2 |
Apparatus for and method of reading targets by image captured by processing captured target images in a batch or free-running mode of operation
Targets associated with transactions to be processed at a workstation are read by capturing return light from the targets with an array of light sensors of a solid-state imager having a field of view that extends through a workstation window to the targets. A controller controls the imager to operate at a frame rate to acquire images of the targets over successive frames in either a batch mode or a free-running mode. A memory stores the acquired images. The controller processes all of the stored images, and processes at least one of the stored images over an extended time period greater than one of the frames. |
| US08511557B2 |
Labeling and authenticating using a microtag
A system for encoding energy peaks of an identifier comprises an encoder. The encoder is configured to define a readable spectral range of an identifier. The identifier comprises a rugate microtag. The encoder is configured to divide the readable spectral range into a plurality of bins. The encoder is configured to encode in a center of a bin near one end of the readable spectral range a reference peak. The encoder is configured to encode in a center of each of a set of bins a set of peaks of a data pattern within the readable spectral range. |
| US08511555B2 |
Tag communication, identification, and tracking apparatus and system
Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and system for supply chain management. The system permits an application server to collect information such as, for example, the spatial and temporal relationship between tags associated with a supply chain item by using a wireless communications device. Embodiments of the present invention may be used throughout any or all locations of a supply chain. For example, when the invention is applied to a retail setting, the retailer can track inventory in an establishment with minimal human involvement. In various embodiments of the present invention, two-way communication between tags and/or an application server allow data to be transmitted and/or received between one or more tags and/or one or more application servers. |
| US08511553B1 |
Method and processes for secure real time purchase validation award system
A method and processes for a secure real-time processing of purchase validation award requests is described. The method includes processes to submit purchase information on a real-time basis and to check on the status of the processing of the submitted purchase validation award system request also on a real-time basis. The method uses a computer information network to perform the required processes. |
| US08511552B2 |
Card credential method and system
In one implementation, a method for providing access to a secure facility includes authenticating the user; generating a card credential, transmitting the card credential to an access card carried by of the user, and transmitting the card key to the access card in a form that is usable by the access card. The generating the card credential includes encrypting the card key using a server encryption key. The card key is usable for a challenge-response interaction during subsequent access requests by the user. |
| US08511547B2 |
Methods and systems for two-factor authentication using contactless chip cards or devices and mobile devices or dedicated personal readers
Generating authentication data for use in a transaction by providing a contactless payment device or smart card configured to communicate with a mobile device, placing the contactless chip card in a proximity to the mobile device to instantiate communication between the contactless chip card and the mobile device, inputting a first input value into the mobile device, communicating data derived from the first input value from the mobile device to the contactless chip card, the contactless chip card converting a set of conversion data, including the first input value, into at least one dynamic value based at least in part on a secret value, communicating the dynamic value from the contactless chip card to the mobile device, and communicating authentication data based at least in part on the dynamic value to a user. In some embodiments the first input value is a Personal Identification Number (PIN), a challenge, or both a PIN and a challenge. |
| US08511544B1 |
Banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The automated banking machine includes a card reader operative to read card data from user cards corresponding to financial accounts. The automated banking machine also includes a display and a printer to produce records of financial transactions carried out with the machine. The machine is operative to cause a computer determination to be made that the card data corresponds to an authorized machine user. The automated banking machine may also include a storage device that is operative to unlock a secured area including information thereon that is used by the automated banking machine to carry out financial transfers. |
| US08511543B2 |
Gift card conversion and digital wallet
A method and a system convert the value of a gift card for use with a mobile device. The value of the gift card is determined from an issuer of the gift card. The value of the gift card is stored in a digital payment account in a storage device. The digital payment account stores values of gift cards from issuers. A financial transaction corresponding to the issuer of the gift card is performed on the digital payment account. The value of a first gift card from a first issuer of a first digital payment account is exchanged with the value of a second gift card from a second issuer of a second digital payment account. |
| US08511542B2 |
Automated teller machine and voice prompt method thereof
A voice prompt method includes obtaining an image of a user and storing the obtained image as a characteristic image when users successfully log onto an automated teller machine; taking photographs of the location surrounding the automated teller machine at predetermined time intervals to obtain real-time images; judging whether the person of the characteristic image is the same as the person in the real-time image; detecting whether the distance between the user and the automated teller machine is larger than a predetermined value if the person in the two images is judged to be the same; and generating a voice prompt to remind the user not to forget to remove his/her bank card if the distance between the user and the automated teller machine becomes larger than a predetermined value. An automated teller machine is also provided. |
| US08511540B2 |
Matrix code for use in verification of data card swap
A content receiver receives an update to a memory unit contained therein utilizing data stored in a data card inserted or incorporated into the content receiver. The content receiver dynamically generates a matrix code based on the updates received in the memory and on information uniquely identifying the content receiver. The matrix code is transmitted to a content display device for display, and a matrix code reader detects the displayed matrix code and transmits information contained within the matrix code to a content provider for updating a user's account associated with the updated content receiver. The content provider may transmit a message to the content receiver for display on the content display device indicating the update to the user's account. The content provider may transit a similar message to the matrix code reader. |
| US08511536B2 |
Ultrasonic bonding systems and methods of using the same
An ultrasonic bonding system is provided. The ultrasonic bonding system includes a bond head assembly and a bonding tool supported by the bond head assembly. The system further includes a pressing member adapted to press against a bonding material bonded using the bonding tool. The pressing member is supported by the bond head assembly and is movable with respect to the bond head assembly independent of the bonding tool. The ultrasonic bonding system may also be an ultrasonic ribbon bonding system or a solar cell ribbon bonding system for bonding a ribbon material to portions of a solar cell. |
| US08511535B1 |
Innovative braze and brazing process for hermetic sealing between ceramic and metal components in a high-temperature oxidizing or reducing atmosphere
A superior braze material, along with a method of producing the braze material and a method of sealing, joining or bonding materials through brazing is disclosed. The braze material is based on a metal oxide-noble metal mixture, typically Ag—CuO, with the addition of a small amount of metal oxide and/or metal such as TiO2, Al2O3, YSZ, Al, and Pd that will further improve wettability and joint strength. Braze filer materials, typically either in the form of paste or thin foil, may be prepared by a high-energy cryogenic ball milling process. This process allows the braze material to form at a finer size, thereby allowing more evenly dispersed braze particles in the resultant braze layer between on the surface of the ceramic substrate and metallic parts. |
| US08511532B2 |
Fastener driving tool
A fastener driving tool includes a flywheel rotated by a drive unit and having a wheel rim formed with teeth, an impact member having a mating toothed unit movable with a carrier frame to engage the teeth so as to be swept thereby to an end-stroke position to enable a striking rod to drive a fastener into a targeted workpiece, and an actuating unit configured to actuate the carrier frame to move from an upper position to a lower position in response to a triggering action of a trigger so as to move the mating toothed unit from an disengaging position to an engaging position. |
| US08511530B2 |
Stapler and staple
A stapler includes an enclosing portion that encloses staples, a clinch portion that bends a staple, and a projecting portion that projects the staple from the enclosing portion, inserts the staple to a sheet bundle, and bends the staple in cooperation with the clinch portion to bind the sheet bundle. In addition, a guide portion guides the staple projected by the projecting portion toward the sheet bundle. The guide portion has guide surfaces for guiding the staple from an inlet adapted to receive the inserting ends of the staple to an outlet that is formed narrower than the inlet such that the staple is projected by the projecting portion toward the sheet bundle side, and the projecting portion projects the staple to the guide portion, moves the staple along the guide surfaces to deform the staple in a horseshoe shape, inserts the pair of inserting ends to the sheet bundle, and bends the staple in cooperation with the clinch portion to bind the sheet bundle. |
| US08511521B1 |
Aerosol dispenser valve
An improved valve member, aerosol dispenser valve containing the valve member, aerosol container for dispensing moisture-curable foams, and moisture-curable foam and dispenser, in which the valve member is made of a glass filled polyolefin. The polyolefin is preferably a polyethylene. The glass content is between about 2% and about 40%, more preferably between about 10% and about 30%; and most preferably between about 15% and about 25%. |
| US08511520B2 |
Ergonomic portion measuring fluent material dispensing system
A fluent material dispensing system comprising: a bottle, a plunger engaged inside the bottle, and a dispensing mechanism having a lever for operation of the plunger for fluid expulsion. The plunger may frictionally engage the bottle to a degree sufficient for holding the plunger in place against a force applied due to return motion of the lever. The dispensing mechanism may comprise a cap for attachment to an end of the bottle opposite a fluid outlet and a handle attached to the cap, the lever pivotally coupled to the cap, the lever and the handle aligned with the bottle. The dispensing mechanism may comprise a portioning mechanism configured to limit distance travelled by the lever from the rest position to the engaged position to a defined amount, thereby limiting expulsion of the fluid to a corresponding defined portion. |
| US08511518B2 |
Volumetric doser for batching liquid or pasty pharmaceutical substances
A volumetric doser (10) for batching liquid or pasty pharmaceutical substances is disclosed which comprises: a cylinder (1); a piston (2), mobile along internal walls (49) of the cylinder (1) for displacing liquid or pasty pharmaceutical substances; a stem (3) exiting from the cylinder (1) for moving the piston (2); and a coupling member (9) to which the stem (3) is fixable. The coupling member (9) has a substantially U-shaped form and comprises: a base (11) and two facing lateral walls (12, 13) which originate from the base (11). The piston (2) and the coupling member (9) are reciprocally conformed such that the coupling member (9) can embrace a part (17) of the piston (2) and can perform limited oscillations with respect to the piston (2) axis. |
| US08511510B2 |
System and method for medical instrument sterilization case having a rotatably displacing cover
A medical instrument sterilization container has a plurality of walls and a rotatably displacing cover. A rotatable device is integral with the cover. An elongate slot is formed in a side of the container for receiving the rotatable device. The rotatable device is slidable within the elongate slot. |
| US08511508B1 |
Pocket-engaging case
A case for eyeglasses or other articles includes a pair of catches with each catch mounted to an opposite side of the case near its upper end. Elongate, flexible latches are also mounted on opposite sides of the case in cooperative alignment with the respective catches. Each latch includes a base secured to the case and a pocket-gripping member at its distal free end. Each latch is inherently biased outwardly from the case so that the pocket-gripping members engage opposite sides of a shirt or blouse pocket interior when the invention is in use, preventing the case from falling from the pocket when a user bends over. The latches are manually squeezed when in their deployed configuration to place them into their stored, catch-engaging configuration. The latches are manually removed from the catches to deploy them into their pocket-engaging configuration. |
| US08511504B2 |
Demisable fuel supply system
A demisable fuel supply system for a satellite includes a pressurized aluminum alloy tank with an aluminum alloy propellant management device therein. The propellant management device (PMD) can have any capillary action surface tension fluid transport features known in the art. Selected inner surfaces of the tank and the PMD are covered with a titanium based coating to guarantee propellant wettability and corrosion resistance of the fuel supply system. |
| US08511502B2 |
Litter bin with pivotal lid and automatic latching mechanism
A litter bin includes a lid hingeably connected to a container. Opposite the hinge, a latch selectively secures the lid to the container. The latch includes a pivotably mounted latch member that has a center of gravity offset from its pivot point. The latch member also includes a catch portion that moves between a locked position and an unlocked position upon pivoting of the latch member. Because the center of gravity of the latch member is offset from the pivot point, tilting the litter bin causes pivoting of the latch member, thereby moving the catch portion from the locked position to the unlocked position. |
| US08511499B2 |
Container
A container (210) for holding granular or powdered material and formed by a top wall (212), a bottom wall (214), a front wall (216), a rear wall (218), a first side wall (220), and a second side wall (222). A rotatably removable lid (D) is interiorly mounted with a scoop (32) and is pivotally hinged to a collar (300) that includes a sealing gasket (330). The collar (300) mounts to the walls of the container (210). A sealing wall 240 of the lid (D) cooperates with the gasket 300 to prevent the contents from spilling. The container (210) incorporates powder control features, a container wall junction (50) preferred geometry and congruent scoop (32) enabling convenient access to the contents, a tolerance variation accommodating and strength improving, J-shaped collar (300) and interlocking indentations (290) and flex clips (310), and a pressure controlling portion (350) that prevents unwanted deformation due to pressure differentials. |
| US08511493B2 |
Liquid container and method of serving a liquid
A liquid container can be present and used in at least two different positions. The liquid container may be a wine container, which can be a wine bottle in its first position and also be a wine glass in its second position. A method of serving a liquid includes placing a container in a first position in which the container serves as a bottle and converting the bottle into a glass or goblet without reassembling any part of the container by placing the container in a second position. |
| US08511492B2 |
Bottle with handle venting inlet and child resistant flip-top closure with pouring spout and drainback hole
Described is a bottle having a container which includes a threaded neck and a handle. The threaded neck includes a dispensing opening and a handle opening. The bottle also includes a dispensing closure configured to engage the container. The bottle also includes a child-resistant closure cap which includes a pair of tabs that lock into the latches on the closure base member. |
| US08511491B2 |
Child resistant container closure package with multiple twist and turn configuration
A maze type package that includes a cylindrical container member that has a plurality of mazes thereon is disclosed. The package includes a coaxial closure member that employs studs for engaging the mazes and to releasably secure the closure to the container. |
| US08511480B2 |
Apparatus and method for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid
A device for separating and isolating components of a biological fluid comprising a container for containing the fluid to be processed, a tube cap assembly for closing the container while providing filling and extraction communication therewith, a float assembly disposed within the container for funneling and controlling biological fluid flow into an inverted domed shaped isolation chamber within the float and controlling the biological fluid flow out of the isolation chamber for effecting an encapsulation or a sealed isolation of at least one component or fraction of the biological fluid flow within the isolation chamber during a centrifugation process. The device further comprising a flexible tube for connecting an extraction passageway disposed within the float assembly and an extraction valve of the tube cap assembly for allowing extraction of at least the one component or fraction encapsulated or isolated within the chamber. |
| US08511478B2 |
Container dispersion wheel
A multi-pharmaceutical dispensing station includes a circular platform around which a plurality of individual dispensers is arrayed at a convenient loading height. Cylindrical, empty prescription containers bearing indicia of the patient and pharmaceutical to be dispensed into each container. Incident containers first enter an entraining column, where sensors detect the indicia and determine the proper dispenser to which to direct the container. The containers then drop into a dispersion wheel which translates them around the circular station and aligns them with a vertical chute leading to the designated dispenser. Slidable gates cover the chutes until the transport system determines they are above the proper dispenser, then open to drop the containers into the designated dispenser. The dispersion wheel may be used in other applications, such as container content verification, and may include container processing stations along its perimeter for processing the containers before sending them on. |
| US08511471B1 |
Crate
A crate made from cardboard configured to have increased compression strength is disclosed herein. The crate can include four sides with a space formed between the four sides. The space can be configured to be selectively closed. The crate can have a bottom secured to the four sides. One or more corrugated panels can be located within the space adjacent the four sides. The corrugated panels can be configured to support the four sides. The corrugated panels can include a corrugated material disposed between two sheets of material. One or more cuts can be located within the space. |
| US08511468B2 |
Surgical instrument holder
Disclosed are various embodiments for holding and organizing surgical instruments in a surgical environment. In one embodiment, a surgical instrument holder comprises an elongated body portion including a plurality of slots. Each of the slots may be configured so as to retain a surgical instrument in a fixed position. The elongated body portion may have a base surface configured to contact a table surface. |
| US08511460B2 |
Conveyor belt apparatus including magnetically actuated rollers
A modular conveyor belt and method provides a conveyor belt having rollers with metallic or magnetic rotors. A magnet or metallic element next to the conveyor belt is positioned to rotate the rotor. A magnetic field produced by the magnet or by the magnetic rotor rotates the rollers as they pass the magnetic field or as the magnetic field is changed. In one embodiment, the magnetic field is in the form of one or more switched reluctance motors. |
| US08511459B2 |
Cigarette bundle feeder
A cigarette bundle feeder has a discharge duct which forms a lower part of a hopper and delivers filter cigarettes towards a bottom plate located under the hopper to produce a cigarette bundle, the discharge duct having a plurality of discharge passages arranged adjacent to each other in a width direction of the hopper to make the filter cigarettes flow downwards separately, the discharge passages opening in one direction; a front plate disposed at one side of and adjacent to the discharge duct, and extending in the width direction to cover the discharged passages of the discharge duct; and a plurality of suction holes formed in the front plate and having open ends that open towards the discharge duct, for sucking, through the open ends, tobacco shreds that spill from the cigarette ends of the filter cigarettes and drop into a gap between the front plate and the discharge duct. |
| US08511458B2 |
Method and apparatus for supplying bags to a packaging machine
A bag-making and packaging machine including first through third transportation devices provided between a positioning conveyor that positions bags fed out from a horizontal-type bag-making machine and a supply conveyor that supplies the bags to a conveyor magazine-type bag-supply apparatus of a packaging machine, wherein the first transportation device suctions and raises the bags from the positioning conveyor and changes them into a vertical attitude with the bag mouth portions facing downward, the second transportation device takes the bags held by the first transportation devices by gripping them with the gripping members, horizontally transports them to a prescribed position while rotating them, and then the third transportation device suctions and takes up the bags from the second transportation device, changes them to a horizontal attitude with the bag mouth portions facing in the bag feed direction and then places them on the supply conveyor. |
| US08511456B1 |
Permanent magnet air heater
A permanent magnet air heater has a housing with an internal chamber accommodating an electric motor rotating a fan to move air through the housing. A non-ferrous member having bores for cylindrical magnets and a steel member with a copper plate secured to the steel member are rotated relative to each other by the motor whereby the magnetic field between the magnets and copper plate generates heat which is transferred to air in the housing moving through the housing by the fan. |
| US08511450B2 |
Multiple clutch device having two pressure equalization chambers
The present invention relates to a multiple clutch device having a first clutch which is assigned a first actuating piston with a first pressure chamber and a first pressure equalization chamber, and having a second clutch which is assigned a second actuating piston with a second pressure chamber and a second pressure equalization chamber, a first crossflow channel being provided for setting the hydraulic fluid column in the first pressure equalization chamber and a second crossflow channel being provided for setting the hydraulic fluid column in the second pressure equalization chamber. According to the invention, the first and second crossflow channels are arranged in such a way that both the oil which is discharged via the first crossflow channel and the oil which is discharged via the second crossflow channel can be fed to the first and second clutches. |
| US08511446B2 |
Nested check high speed valve
A shock absorber has a compression valve assembly which functions during a compression stroke, a rebound valve assembly which functions during a rebound stroke and a velocity sensitive valve which is in series with one or both of the compression valve assembly and the rebound valve assembly. The compression valve assembly, the rebound valve assembly and the velocity sensitive valve can be incorporated into a piston assembly, a base valve assembly or both. |
| US08511444B2 |
Shock absorber having a continuously variable valve with base line valving
A shock absorber includes an external control valve which controls the damping characteristics of the shock absorber. The external control valve controls the flow of fluid between the lower working chamber of the shock absorber and the reservoir chamber and between the upper working chamber of the shock absorber. The damping characteristics are dependent on the amount of current being applied to a solenoid valve which controls a fluid valve assembly. A soft fluid valve assembly is disposed in series with the fluid valve assembly to allow for the tuning of the damping forces at low current levels provided to the solenoid valve. |
| US08511438B1 |
Lifting and lowering device and system
An apparatus for the controlled descent or lifting of objects includes a main longitudinal member that is attached at one end thereof to a receiver hitch. A plurality of spaced-apart side extensions of round material stock extend from opposite sides of the main longitudinal member and, together with a nose portion, provide locations that an operator can accomplish multiple wraps with a rope of a block and tackle to vary the friction between the rope and the apparatus sufficient to minimize a magnitude of resistance that is exerted by an operator to the rope to control the rate of descent of the object. The descent rate of heavy objects, such as severed tree limbs, can be easily and safely controlled. By securing the rope to the apparatus and driving a vehicle that the receiver hitch is attached to forward, the apparatus can be used to lift heavy objects. |
| US08511432B2 |
Scaffolding stage support extension
A support extension for a scaffolding system to provide additional work area for storage of tools, brackets, trim, lumber, siding or other building materials and particularly to a set of staging insertions configured to match transom support tubing and extend laterally through a transom support and be secured to a staging member. |
| US08511431B2 |
Retrofit handrail system for truck
A retrofit handrail extension system or kit enables a large mining truck to be retrofitted in the field. The handrail extension system includes a first handrail extension member for connecting a first upper portion of a first ladder to a railing mounted to a catwalk around the cabin of the truck and a second handrail extension member for connecting a second upper portion of the first ladder to a forward-facing handrail mounted to an outer surface of the cabin of the truck. The system may include a third handrail extension member for connecting a first upper portion of a second ladder to a first platform railing mounted to a platform beside the cabin of the truck and a fourth handrail extension member for connecting a second upper portion of the second ladder to a second platform railing mounted to the platform beside the cabin of the truck. |
| US08511429B1 |
Ceiling panels made from corrugated cardboard
An acoustical ceiling panel comprising a flat core and an acoustically transparent face sheet adhesively attached to one of two oppositely facing major sides of the core, the core comprising a multitude of layers of corrugated fiberboard laminated together, the corrugated fiberboard layers each having a corrugated medium adhesively attached to a flat liner board, the corrugated medium forming regularly spaced flutes of curvilinear cross-section, the flutes of the layers of fiberboard being arranged in parallel directions extending perpendicularly to the major faces of the core. |
| US08511427B2 |
Blower arrangement
The invention relates to a blower arrangement for gas. The blower arrangement comprises a blower with a blower housing, at least one gas-inlet opening formed in the blower housing and gas-outlet opening, and at least one rotary-driven blower wheel arranged in the blower housing. Furthermore, the blower arrangement has at least one silencer device with at least one gas guiding element, wherein the gas-guiding element comprises a plurality of silencer openings and is designed as a gas guiding pipe. The gas guiding pipe varies its cross section along its longitudinal extension and has a wall, which is designed to be wave-like along the longitudinal extension of the gas guiding pipe. The silencer device also comprises at least one silencer chamber, which is in flow connection with the silencer openings and is arranged at least in sections laterally behind the gas guiding element. |
| US08511425B2 |
Suppressor for attachment to firearm barrel
A suppressor mechanism has an elongate tubular housing containing baffles and into which is assembled a suppressor mount body having spaced thread sections and spaced tapered gas seal surfaces. An adapter/muzzle brake member defines an internally threaded section that establishes threaded connection with the reduced diameter externally threaded section of a typical firearm barrel that is prepared for attachment of a suppressor thereto. The suppressor mount body and the muzzle brake/adapter member each define spaced threaded sections that establish threaded connection and promote enhanced structural integrity. The spaced internal tapered surfaces of the suppressor mount body and the spaced external tapered surfaces of the muzzle brake/adapter member establish spaced internal cartridge gas seals that prevent high pressure hot cartridge gas and gunpowder residue from coming into contact with and potentially fouling the thread connections of the suppressor mount body and the muzzle brake/adapter member. |
| US08511424B2 |
Acoustic waveguide assemblies
Acoustic waveguides are disclosed for mounting to a conduit. The acoustic waveguides provide a mounting area that minimizes the effect of the mount on the acoustic wave traveling through the waveguide while providing an effective seal, even under high pressure conditions. |
| US08511423B2 |
Acoustic diode
An acoustic diode includes a phononic crystal medium, a nonlinear acoustic medium, a aluminum tubes contain the phononic crystal medium and the nonlinear acoustic medium. The phononic crystal medium is fabricated by alternately laminating a water layers and a glass layers in a periodic manner. |
| US08511420B2 |
Vehicle steering control device
A vehicle steering control device includes an electric power steering unit, a steering ratio varying unit which drives an output member relative to an input member driven by steering operation of a driver to vary a steering ratio, and a control unit which controls the steering ratio varying unit. The control unit decreases in magnitude the relative drive velocity of the output member driven by the steering ratio varying unit relative to the input member when the magnitude of a difference between the maximum value of the steering drive velocity range of said steerable wheels which allows said power steering unit to generate a required steering assisting power and an actual steering drive velocity of said steerable wheels is small in contrast to the large difference. |
| US08511418B2 |
Electric power steering system
A gap adjustment mechanism that moves an upper housing in a direction close to a worm is disposed in a fitting portion between the upper housing and a lower housing. The gap adjustment mechanism is disposed in the fitting portion on the side of the worm or in the fitting portion on the other side of the worm. |
| US08511413B2 |
Battery installation structure for electric automobile
Disclosed is a battery installation structure for an electric automobile. A battery case guide device guides the aforementioned battery case to a battery case housing section. The battery case guide device is provided with protruding parts and guide parts. The protruding parts are provided in an area near the right front corner on the front side surface of the battery case, an area near the right front corner on the right side surface thereof, an area near the left rear corner on the rear side surface thereof, and an area near the left rear corner on the left side surface thereof. The guide parts are provided to the aforementioned automobile body. The guide parts are capable of abutting the protruding parts. Of the two categories of parts mentioned above, namely, the protruding parts and the guide parts, those in one category have each a convex curved surface, and those in the other category have each an inclined surface capable of abutting the convex curved surface. |
| US08511412B2 |
Frame structure for mounting battery module in vehicle
A pair of lateral side frames that are fixed along vehicle side members extending in a front-back direction of the vehicle on both sides of the vehicle in a width direction, a front frame that is fixed between front end parts of the lateral side frames, a rear frame that is fixed between rear end parts, and a base frame that is fixed between the front frame and the rear frame are provided. A front mounting frame for fixedly mounting the front side of a battery module on the front side of the base frame, and a rear mounting frame for mounting the rear side of the battery module on the rear side are provided respectively in the width direction of the vehicle. |
| US08511411B2 |
Cooling module for motor vehicles and motor vehicle
A cooling module is provided for motor vehicles with a plurality of modular elements. At least one first modular element is provided for the arrangement in a deformation region of the motor vehicle and at least one second modular element is also arranged. The at least one first modular element is displaceable relative to the at least one second modular element. |
| US08511409B2 |
Compressed air powered vehicle
A pressurized air system is provided. The air system includes a compressed air tank, a turbine coupled to, and in fluid communication with, the compressed air tank and structured to convert mechanical energy, an electric motor, the electric motor coupled to and in electrical communication with the turbine and having an output shaft, an electrical compressor structured to compress air, the electrical compressor coupled to and in electrical communication with the turbine, the electrical compressor also coupled to, and in fluid communication with the compressed air tank. Wherein the turbine receives compressed air from the tank and the turbine generates electricity. Further, a portion of the electricity is directed to the motor and the remaining electricity is directed to the electrical compressor, and, whereby the electrical compressor provides compressed air to the compressed air tank. |
| US08511408B2 |
Control device for vehicle driving apparatus
The present invention provides, in a vehicle driving apparatus that includes an internal combustion engine 6 and electric motors M1 and M2, a control device that can provide both confined noise reduction and fuel efficiency improvement. A control device 40 includes a confined noise reduction means 98 that controls the electric motor, to reduce confined noise caused by the variation of torque that is provided from the internal combustion engine, so that the electric motor provides variation of torque in opposite phase to the variation of the torque that is provided from the internal combustion engine. |
| US08511406B2 |
Motorized beach cart
A motorized cart, including: a collapsible frame; a handle and a collapsible storage compartment connected to the frame; and at least three wheels, including a front wheel and two rear wheels disposed at a rear of the frame for rotating about a single axis. The cart also includes a drive compartment housing a battery, a drive controller, and at least one motor electrically connected to the battery and the drive controller for driving at least one of the rear wheels. The drive compartment is positioned on the frame to position the battery, the drive controller, and the motor below and forward of the rear wheel rotation axis when the cart is in an expanded, upright mode, thereby positioning a center of gravity of the cart forward of the rear wheel rotation axis to enhance stability. The drive compartment is shaped and positioned on the frame to not impede the collapsing of the storage compartment and the frame to a collapsed mode for compact storage of the cart, and to provide clearance for the at least one front wheel during transition between the collapsed mode and the expanded, upright mode. The drive compartment is positioned on the frame to substantially vertically align the center of gravity of the cart with the rear wheel rotation axis in a tilted mode, in which the cart operates only on the two rear wheels. |
| US08511402B2 |
Subsea solids processing apparatuses and methods
In a dual-gradient drilling apparatus, a subsea solids processing unit includes a housing, a solids processing mechanism disposed in the housing between a drilling mud inlet and a drilling mud outlet, and a flushing mechanism configured to flush the solids processing mechanism with a flushing fluid. A subsea solids processing unit may be controlled by rotating the solids processing mechanism in a forward direction and increasing a drive torque when a measured speed of the solids processing mechanism is below a desired rotation speed. The desired rotation speed may be decreased when a measured torque exceeds a selected maximum and a rotation direction of the solids processing mechanism may be reversed when the measured speed falls below a selected minimum. |
| US08511399B2 |
Hammer drill with mode lock on
A hammer drill, in particular a chipper comprises: a body having at least one support handle; an electric motor mounted within the body; an electric switch, capable of being switched on and off by a trigger button connected to it, to activate or deactivate respectively the electric motor, wherein the trigger button is moveable between two positions, a first position where the electric switch is off and a second position where the electric switch is on; a locking arm moveably mounted on the electric switch which, when the trigger button is located in its second position, is moveable between two positions, a first position where it is disengaged from the trigger button and a second position where it engages with the trigger button and holds the trigger button in its second position. When the locking arm is in its second position it causes the hammer to remain switch on even if the operator removes their fingers from the trigger button. |
| US08511394B2 |
Wellbore fluid treatment process and installation
A method for isolating a perforated interval of a well, the well including a casing liner having a wall with a plurality of perforations therethrough forming the perforated interval, the method comprising: providing a tool including a tubular body including an inner diameter and an outer surface, a first open end and a second open end, the first and second open ends providing access to the inner diameter; and a sealing element to isolate a mid region of the outer surface from the first open end and the second open end; positioning the tool in the well with the tubular first open end adjacent and above an uppermost perforation of the perforated interval and the second open end adjacent and below a lowermost perforation of the perforated interval; and installing the tool in the well with the sealing element sealing between the tubular body and the casing wall above the uppermost perforation of the perforated interval and below the lowermost perforation of the perforated interval to isolate fluid flow between the perforations and the inner diameter. |
| US08511391B2 |
Apparatus and method for coupling conduit segments
A method of coupling segments of a borehole conduit is disclosed. The method includes: positioning a first conduit segment at a location selected from a surface location and a downhole location, the first conduit segment having a first end and a second end, the first conduit segment including a pin connector at the first end; orienting the first conduit segment so that the first end is located uphole relative to the second end; and coupling a second conduit segment in operable communication with the first conduit segment, the second conduit segment having a box connector at an end of the second conduit segment that is configured to engage the pin connector of the first segment. |
| US08511389B2 |
System and method for inductive signal and power transfer from ROV to in riser tools
A subsea wellhead assembly having a completion landing string inside a drilling riser is described herein and comprises a power source for generating an alternating electrical current; a connector for connecting the power source to a receptacle in the subsea well assembly; a first inductor electrically connected to the power source through the connector; a subsea control module delivering power and control signals to the subsea well assembly; and a second inductor spaced from the first inductor, and located in the subsea control module, the second inductor positioned so that an EMF is produced on the second inductor when the alternating electrical current is passed through the first inductor to thereby generate an alternating current signal on the second inductor. |
| US08511387B2 |
Made-up flange locking cap
A cap is lowered onto and secured to a subsea member with an external flange, effecting a seal between the external flange and cap. The cap includes a tubular outer body defining a cavity, and a tubular inner body defining a bore, wherein the lower end of the inner body resides within the cavity. The cap also includes a lower engaging member coupled to the outer body that is radially movable between an inward state and an outward state and configured to alternately engage and disengage at least one of a backside of the external flange. Finally, the cap includes an upper engaging member coupled to the outer body and being radially movable independently of the lower engaging member between an inward state and an outward state and configured to engage and disengage the inner body. |
| US08511384B2 |
Methods for producing oil and/or gas
A method for producing oil and/or gas comprising a method for producing oil from an underground formation comprising injecting an enhanced oil recovery formulation and a gas into a first well in the formation; forming a mixture comprising the enhanced oil recovery formulation and the oil in the formation; forming a gas cap with the injected gas; forcing the formulation and oil mixture towards a second well in the formation; and producing the formulation and oil mixture from the second well. |
| US08511381B2 |
High solids content slurry methods and systems
A system and method are disclosed for low damage gravel packing. The system comprises a well bore; a gravel packing slurry comprising a carrier fluid and a solids mixture, wherein the solids mixture comprises a plurality of volume-averaged particle size distribution (PSD) modes such that a packed volume fraction (PVF) exceeds 0.75, wherein the solids mixture comprises at least a proppant PSD mode and a fines PSD mode; a pump to circulate the slurry in the wellbore and form a proppant pack; and a dispersant source effective to facilitate fines flowback from the pack. The method comprises circulating the slurry through a wellbore to form a proppant pack; contacting fines in the pack with a dispersant; and passing fluid through the pack to remove fines from the pack. Dispersants disclosed as present in the slurry or in another treatment fluid include polyelectrolyte, polysulfonate, polycarboxylate, lignosulfonates, polymelamine sulfonates, polystyrene sulfonates, polynaphthalene sulfonates, polyacrylates having a weight average molecular weight less than 10,000 Daltons, anionic, cationic, amphoteric and zwitterionic surfactants, and nonionic surfactants. |
| US08511377B2 |
Open hole non-rotating sleeve and assembly
A non-rotating downhole sleeve adapted for open hole drilling and/or casing centralization. The sleeve includes a tubular body made of hard plastic with integrally formed helical blades positioned around its outer surface and an inner surface configuration which allows drilling fluid circulation to form a non-rotating fluid bearing between the sleeve and the drill pipe or casing. The helical blades reduce sliding and rotating torque while drilling, with minimal obstruction to drilling fluid passing through the borehole between the blades. |
| US08511375B2 |
Wellbore cleaning devices
A wellbore cleaning device having a unitary tool mandrel surrounded by a retaining sleeve that is rotatable with respect to the mandrel. A locking ring is used to secure the retaining sleeve to the mandrel. Cleaning blades are retained within recesses in the retaining sleeve and are biased radially outwardly from the recesses by springs. |
| US08511366B2 |
Method for spray forming a metal component and a spray formed metal component
A method for spray forming a metal component (11, 17, 21, 27) having an elongated open channel (10, 20, 22, 28) therein comprises firstly spray forming a layer (8, 19, 24) of the desired metal onto a deposition substrate (2), placing then an elongated spray blocking object (9, 18, 26, 29) on the already sprayed layer for forming the channel, and continuing then the spray forming process until the desired total thickness of the component is achieved. According to the present invention, the spray blocking object is a strip (18, 26, 29), the cross-sectional profile of the strip being fully open in the direction of an axis (a) in a cross-sectional plane of the strip, and the strip is placed on the already deposited layer (8, 19, 24) with said axis directed substantially parallel to the direction of the incident metal spray (6). |
| US08511363B2 |
Window covering
A window covering includes a roller attached to a mounting device and an actuation device attached to the roller to rotate the roller in at least one of a first direction and a second direction. A front member is attached to the mounting device. A second member is attached to the roller. A plurality of ballast members are attached to the front member. Each ballast member has a portion that extends to the second member to engage the second member to cause the front member to form substantially parallel folds when the second member is wound about the roller to retract the front member to a retracted position. Preferably, the folds are similar to or exactly like the transverse folds in shade material that are formed when a conventional Roman shade is raised. |
| US08511359B2 |
Layup mandrel having changeable shape and method of using the same
A layup mandrel includes a shell having a tool surface on which plies may be laid up. The shape of the shell is changed by an actuator. |
| US08511358B2 |
Pneumatic tire
To enhance uneven wear resistance with achieving higher levels of dry grip performance and wet performance, a tread surface 2 is provided with one circumferential main groove 3 in an outer region 2o thereof directed outward of a vehicle and with first and second circumferential main grooves 4 and 5 in an inner region 2i thereof directed inward of the vehicle, a central region Rc between the circumferential main grooves 3 and 4 is formed into a rib 10 extending continuously in the circumferential direction, an outer shoulder region Ro between the circumferential main groove 3 and TEo is formed into a row of outer blocks 12 defined by inclined main grooves 6, and the outer blocks 12 are provided with inclined sub-grooves 13 having an inclination direction different from that of the inclined main grooves 6, thereby dividing each of the outer blocks 12 into a first block portion 12A on a tire equator side and a second block portion 12B on a ground contact edge side. |
| US08511357B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having main grooves and sipes
A pneumatic tire has a tread surface is provided with a groove portion, and a land portion sectioned by the groove portion. In wall surfaces facing the groove portion in the land portion, an inside wall surface facing an inner side at a time of being installed to a vehicle is formed by a zigzag surface, and an outside wall surface facing an outer side at a time of being installed to the vehicle is formed by a flat surface. |
| US08511351B2 |
System and method for distributing fuel from a hydrant pit valve at an airport
A fuel delivery system of an aircraft refueling vehicle that is configured to distribute fuel from a hydrant pit valve at an airport. The fuel delivery system includes a first hose including a coupler that is configured to be fluidly connected to a hydrant pit valve at an airport to receive fuel from the hydrant pit valve. A fuel passageway is fluidly coupled to the first hose. An on-board fuel tank is fluidly coupled to the fuel passageway. A second hose is fluidly coupled to the fuel passageway. The second hose includes a nozzle that is configured to be coupled to a refueling point on an aircraft to distribute fuel into a fuel tank of an aircraft. A valve is coupled to the fuel passageway to control the flow of fuel to and from the aircraft refueling vehicle. |
| US08511343B2 |
Bladderless reservoir tank for a hydraulic accumulator
A bladderless reservoir tank is provided with a hollow body that forms a cavity for receipt of a working fluid. A pick-up tube is attached to the hollow body of the reservoir tank. A portion of the pick-up tube extends into the interior of the body such that a port of the pick-up tube is positioned at the centroid of the hollow body. The pick-up tube has a channel that extends from the port at the centroid to the exterior of the body of the reservoir tank. |
| US08511338B2 |
Water flow detection device
In a water flow detection device in which signals are output in response to movement of a detection rod that rotates in conjunction with the opening of a valve body, a pin that supports the detection rod is capable of being provided so as to be constantly parallel to a valve shaft of the valve body, and a water flow is capable of being accurately detected by the rotation of the detection rod while the detection rod contacts the valve body without being inclined, the detection rod rotating in response to opening and closing of the valve body. Accordingly, the water flow detection device includes a retainer and an extended block as holding members that hold the pin of the detection rod such that the pin is parallel to the valve shaft of the valve body, the retainer having a bearing for the pin, and the extended block holding the retainer to fix the retainer to the main body with a bolt. Furthermore, the retainer and the extended block respectively have a protrusion and a groove as rotation-restricting sections, and these members engage with each other. |
| US08511337B2 |
Flow rate controller and proportional electromagnetic valve
A flow rate controller is arranged such that a control circuit controls a proportional electromagnetic valve so that a flow rate detected by a flow rate sensor reaches a target flow rate. The proportional electromagnetic valve includes a coil supported in a holder, a bobbin and a fixed core, a valve element and a plate spring placed on a movable core, the valve seat, lead-in path, lead-out path, and orifice being formed in a body. The movable core is displaced by balance between an attractive force of the fixed core generated by excitation of the coil and an urging force of the plate spring, thereby adjusting the position of the valve element with respect to the valve seat to adjust the flow rate of a fluid. The orifice has an inside diameter set to a value of “φ1 mm or more” and an axial length set to a value to have a ratio of “from 0.1 to 0.6 inclusive” to the inside diameter. The lead-out path has an inside diameter set to be larger than the inside diameter of the orifice. |
| US08511332B2 |
Asymmetric valve for vehicle wheel
A valve of the “Snap-In” type is intended to be mounted directly on the rim of a vehicle wheel fitted with a “tubeless” tire. The valve is secured to the rim through which it passes via a groove produced at the base of a bulb extended by a rubbery coating of an internal nozzle of the valve. The groove collaborates elastically with a hole in the rim, on the periphery of which hole it becomes lodged, the mass or the volume of the bulb being smaller in its region (A) toward the interior of the rim by comparison with its region (B) directed toward the exterior, this reduction taking place near the groove intended to collaborate with the hole in the rim, both in the part thereof that surrounds the nozzle and in the part thereof that is in contact with the bottom of the rim. |
| US08511330B1 |
Servo minimum pressure valve
A servo minimum pressure valve assembly includes a servo minimum pressure sleeve and a servo minimum pressure valve spool. The servo minimum pressure sleeve includes an inlet aperture, a first window set, a second window set, and a third window set. A ratio of an outlet window diameter of the first window set to an outlet window diameter of the second window set is between 2.34 and 2.65. The outlet window diameter of the second window set is greater than an outlet window diameter of the third window set. The servo minimum pressure valve spool is configured to move bi-directionally along a longitudinal axis of the servo minimum pressure valve sleeve. The servo minimum pressure valve spool includes a cylindrical portion to control a fluid flow between the inlet aperture of the servo minimum pressure sleeve and the first, second, and third window sets of the servo minimum pressure sleeve. |
| US08511329B1 |
Metering valve
A metering valve assembly includes a metering valve sleeve and a metering valve spool. The metering valve sleeve includes an inlet window set and an outlet window set with a first outlet window having a first logarithmic contour and a second outlet window having a second logarithmic contour. A ratio of an inner width of the first outlet window to an inner length of the first outlet window is between 1.48 and 1.52. A ratio of an inner width of the second outlet window to an inner length of the second outlet window is between 2.21 and 2.29. The metering valve spool includes first, second, and third cylindrical portions. The metering valve spool is configured to move bi-directionally along a longitudinal axis of the metering valve sleeve and control fluid flow between the inlet window set and the outlet window set relative to the first, second, and third cylindrical portions. |
| US08511326B1 |
Tank system for producing bubbles and illuminating the bubbles as they fall from the tank onto a passing vehicle
A tank system is described for dropping fluid onto a passing vehicle. The tank system includes a tank with a fluid supply inlet. Optionally, a soap injector is included for injecting soap into the water flow to create a fluid mix that is supplied to the tank. A lighting system is attached to the tank. The fluid mix, or any other chemical in the tank, may be heated with the heating unit. An air motor is included for providing air to an air manifold that is disposed within the tank. When air is introduced into the fluid mix, bubbles are created. As the fluid mix and bubbles fill the tank, they fall from the tank via an overflow lip, with the fluid mix and/or bubbles being illuminated by the lighting system as they fall onto a vehicle passing below. |
| US08511323B2 |
Oral care dispenser and oral care system implementing the same
An oral care dispenser and oral care system implementing the same. In one embodiment, the dispenser may comprise a collar having an axial passageway in which a drive component is rotatably coupled. The collar comprises a segmented neck portion and a non-segmented body portion that comprises a plurality of protuberances extending into the axial passageway. The drive component comprises at least one resilient arm that interacts with the plurality of protuberances to generate an audible signal during relative rotation. |
| US08511322B2 |
Powder compact applicator
A powder compact (10) comprising a case (20) forming a main make-up powder receptacle (21) and an applicator head (30) fitted to said case, said applicator head comprising a porous membrane (31) occupying the top part of said head and an auxiliary powder receptacle (32) used to retain part of said powder close to said porous membrane, said porous membrane being designed to come into contact with the skin to dispense said powder on said skin, wherein said powder compact comprises a cylindrical wall (35) which surrounds a communication channel (36) through which said auxiliary powder receptacle communicates with said main powder receptacle and at least one section of which is occupied by a sieve (40), the mesh of which is adapted to the particle characteristics of said powder in order to control its flow. |
| US08511305B2 |
Redundant power control for respiratory system heaters
A humidification system is provided for a respiratory system is provided with a controller having two processors that monitor the operation of each other and of heating elements in the respiratory system to provide CPU redundancy and heating element control. Each heating element is provided with two control paths, for example a relay and a triac connected in series with the heating element and a power supply. Each heater element has one control path connected to a first one of the processors and at least one heating element has at least one control path connected to a second one of the controllers. A hardware watchdog monitors the operation of the first processor, and can be triggered by a signal from the second processor, in response to which it can disable all heating elements. |
| US08511298B2 |
Reflective solar energy collection system
The present application provides a primary reflector in a solar collection system. The primary reflector includes a first reflective section that can reflect solar rays onto a first focal line, a second reflective section on the left side of the first reflective section, and a third reflective section on the right side of the first reflective section. The second reflective section can reflect solar rays to the right side of the first focal line. The third reflective section can reflect solar rays to the left side of the first focal line. |
| US08511297B2 |
Actuator-based drive system for solar collector
A system for controlling the rotational position of a solar collector trough includes a hydraulic cylinder having an output end and a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly includes at least one linkage member and a pair of pivot arms attached to the at least one linkage member. The pair of pivot arms is defined by a first pivot arm and a second pivot arm, each arm being pivotally attached to the at least one linkage member and the trough. The first and second pivot arms form respective parallel horizontal first and second pivot axes enabling the trough to be entirely movable over an angular range of motion extending over 180 degrees based totally on the linear movement of the output end of the hydraulic cylinder and in which an actuator control circuit controls the relative displacement of the cylinder output end. |
| US08511296B2 |
Solar heating systems
Solar heating systems are provided which utilize an integrated fixture for transferring heat from a solar collector to a lower-temperature loop, e.g. a domestic hot water system or radiant heating system. The fixture provides a heat exchanger for transferring heat from the solar collector to the lower temperature loop. The fixture may also include a casting, in which are formed solar collector supply and return ports, lower temperature supply and return ports, a solar collector pump volute, and a lower temperature pump volute. The systems also include two pumps, and a temperature optimization control that varies the speed of at least one of the pumps depending on the temperature of the liquid in the solar collector. |
| US08511294B2 |
Gas burner for cooking appliances
A gas burner for cooking appliances employing a ring of main flames for cooking, and a ring of simmering flames for heating. A first chamber contains the gas and primary air mixture for feeding the ring of main flames through a circumferential wall with a plurality of radial apertures. The chamber contains the gas and primary air mixture for feeding the ring of simmering flames through radial passages. The chambers are superposed, and a separator plate is interposed between the chambers. A cover rests on the separator plate and the radial apertures are defined therebetween. The cover extends beyond the passage and shields same from ambient conditions. |
| US08511289B2 |
Intake manifolds
An intake manifold includes a surge tank chamber, a plurality of branch passages and a gas tank chamber capable of introducing a gas and distributing the gas into the plurality of branch passages. The gas is to be refluxed to an engine. |
| US08511288B2 |
Method for operating an internal combustion engine
The invention relates to a method for operating an internal combustion engine (1) with two-stage turbocharging by a low-pressure exhaust gas turbine (6) and a high-pressure exhaust gas turbine (7), the low-pressure exhaust gas turbine (6) being positioned downstream of the high-pressure exhaust gas turbine (7) in the exhaust system (3) of the internal combustion engine (1), and the high-pressure exhaust gas turbine (7) being provided with a bypass line (11) with a control valve (12). In order to achieve quick response of the internal combustion engine (1) in transient operation, it is provided that continuously or periodically at certain intervals preferably an electronic control unit will check whether a steady-state or a transient operating state of the internal combustion engine (1) is prevailing, and that the control valve (12) is controlled in accordance with at least one steady-state characteristic map (32, 33) in the steady-state case and in accordance with at least one transient characteristic map (31) or a transient function in the transient case. |
| US08511287B2 |
Supercritical-state fuel injection system and method
A fuel injector system for raising fuel to its supercritical state and injecting the supercritical-state fuel to the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. A plurality of injector embodiments provides alternative ways to heat the pressurized fuel to its supercritical state. Injection of supercritical fuel into the combustion chamber is known to improve fuel entrainment and reducing ignition delay to thereby increase combustion rate, which leads to an increase in fuel efficiency. According to some embodiments, the system provides for preventing coking that may otherwise occur in an exhaust gas heat exchanger used for preheating the high pressure fuel. In other embodiments, engine cold start assistance is provided by storing pressurized, heated fuel in an insulated container. |
| US08511284B2 |
Fuel supply apparatus of internal combustion engine and control device of fuel supply apparatus
A fuel supply apparatus of an internal combustion engine is provided which can discharge air bubbles or air from within fuel supply paths while increasing pressure within a common rail up to a predetermined pressure level before a start of the internal combustion engine, can reduce a period of time of cranking from when an ignition switch is switched on and which can reduce noise that occurs when the air bubbles or air are being discharged.The fuel supply apparatus is provided with a flow rate control valve that adjusts a flow rate of fuel supplied to the common rail and a pressure control valve that reduces the pressure within the common rail. The fuel supply apparatus is further provided with: a pre-start drive control portion that performs a pre-start drive of an electromagnetic low pressure pump before the start of the internal combustion engine; a flow rate control valve control portion that maintains the flow rate control valve in an open state while the pre-start drive is being performed; and a pressure control valve control portion that maintains the pressure control valve in a closed state and performs a control that opens the pressure control valve at least once for a short time period while the pre-start drive is being performed. |
| US08511274B2 |
Engine speed sensitive oil pressure regulator
A pressure regulator for a power source may include a housing in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid line and a reservoir, and a pressure relief valve having an open position that creates a flow path between the pressurized fluid line and the reservoir, and a closed position. The pressure relief valve may open when an opening force exerted by pressurized fluid entering the housing overcomes a closing force acting on the pressure relief valve, allowing pressurized fluid to flow from the pressurized fluid line to the reservoir. The pressure regulator may also include a governor coupled to the pressure relief valve, wherein the governor is configured to regulate the pressure in the pressurized fluid line by selectively adjusting the closing force exerted on the pressure relief valve based on engine speed. |
| US08511273B2 |
Cylinder head of an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine for a vehicle, such as a motorcycle, includes a crankcase, two banks of cylinders projecting from the crankcase in a 56-57 degree V-configuration, a plurality of pushrods, and a plurality of camshafts supported by the crankcase. The two banks of cylinders include a first cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase to a first cylinder head, and a second cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase to a second cylinder head. The plurality of intake and exhaust valve pushrods extend between the crankcase and the first and second cylinder heads, driven by one intake camshaft and two exhaust camshafts. |
| US08511272B2 |
Accessory mounting structure
A horizontal groove extending horizontally when an alternator bracket is fixed to a cylinder block of a vehicle engine is formed in the alternator bracket. A shank of a bolt inserted through mounting pieces of an alternator is inserted into the horizontal groove from a horizontally lateral direction toward the cylinder block to support the bolt on a lower surface of the horizontal groove. After insertion, the bolt is restrained from moving toward an opening of the horizontal groove. Since the insertion of the bolt into the horizontal groove is facilitated, and the weight of the alternator is borne by the lower surface of the horizontal groove, a burden on a fixing portion is reduced, and it becomes easy to position the alternator and hold it when it is fixed. Thus, the accessory can be mounted on the cylinder block with satisfactory work efficiency and with support accuracy kept high. |
| US08511263B2 |
Cooling-water pump arrangement structure of engine
A pump attaching portion is formed at a specified outside portion of an engine body beside a boss portion of a cylinder-head fastening bolt in such a manner that the pump attaching portion is continuous from the boss portion. The pump attaching portion has an attachment face, which contains a cooling-water introducing port, which is located on the outside of the flange wall and faces toward an engine front side in such a manner that the position of the attachment face is retreated from the flange wall. Accordingly, the sufficient pump-support rigidity can be ensured, restraining the pump attaching portion from projecting greatly toward the side of the engine body. |
| US08511261B2 |
Piston cooling device
Disclosed is a piston cooling device wherein the cooling efficiency of a piston is improved by oil injected from an oil jet and supplied to a cooling passage provided in the piston, and the amount of cooling oil is reduced when an internal combustion engine is operated at maximum output. The piston cooling device is provided with a piston for an internal combustion engine, in which a circumferential passage and a cooling passage having an inlet passage and an outlet passage are provided, and an oil jet for injecting oil from an injection port to the inlet passage. The oil jet injects oil at every stroke of the piston so that a two-phase plug flow composed of gas and oil is formed in the cooling passage at least when an internal combustion engine is operated at maximum output. |
| US08511259B2 |
Method for reducing emission of pollutants from an internal combusion engine, and fuel emulsion comprising water and a liquid hydrocarbon
Method for reducing emission of pollutants from an internal combustion engine including at least one combustion chamber. A fuel emulsion is injected into a combustion chamber; the fuel emulsion is ignited in the combustion chamber in the presence of air; and the internal combustion engine is operated so as to reduce peak combustion temperature in the combustion chamber. The fuel emulsion has a liquid hydrocarbon fuel, water, at least one emulsifier and at least one oxygen-containing water soluble organic compound. A considerable reduction of particulate emissions is obtained by using this fuel emulsion while maintaining or even further reducing the NOx level which is already reduced by the engine itself. |
| US08511254B2 |
Environmentally friendly animal litter
A method of making an animal litter that includes geopolymerized ash, wherein, the animal litter is made from a quantity of a pozzolanic ash mixed with a sufficient quantity of water and an alkaline activator to initiate a geopolymerization reaction that forms geopolymerized ash. After the geopolymerized ash is formed, it is dried, broken into particulates, and sieved to a desired size. These geopolymerized ash particulates are used to make a non-clumping or clumping animal litter. Odor control may be accomplished with the addition of a urease inhibitor, pH buffer, an odor eliminating agent, and/or fragrance. |
| US08511251B2 |
Film deposition device and method thereof
A film deposition device includes a nozzle configured to inject a plurality of particles to a target; and a suction unit provided around the nozzle and configured to suck particles that are rebounded from the target among the plurality of particles injected from the nozzle. |
| US08511247B2 |
Underwater traveling vehicle
An underwater traveling vehicle includes: a vehicle body 2; an endless track means 3 which is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body 2; a drive means which is provided in the vehicle body 2 so as to drive the endless track means 3; and a thruster 4 which is provided in the vehicle body 2. |
| US08511246B2 |
Offshore floating production, storage, and off-loading vessel for use in ice-covered and clear water applications
An offshore floating production, storage, and off-loading vessel has a hull of generally cylindrical or polygonal configuration surrounding a central double tapered conical moon pool and contains water ballast and oil and/or liquefied gas storage compartments. An adjustable water ballast system induces heave, roll, pitch and surge motions of the vessel to dynamically position and maneuver the vessel. The moon pool shape and other devices on the vessel provide added virtual mass for increasing the natural period of the roll and heave modes, reducing dynamic amplification and resonance due to waves and vessel motion, and facilitate maneuvering the vessel. A disconnectable turret buoy at the bottom of the moon pool connects risers and mooring lines. |
| US08511242B2 |
Seed meter control
A seed metering apparatus having a selectably actuated panel positioned between the metering apparatus and discharge chute, the panel moving between an open position and a closed position such that seeds may be more accurately spaced and metered without disrupting the drive mechanism of the seed metering apparatus. A seed metering apparatus where metered but non-discharged seeds are returned to a seed reservoir for subsequent metering and planting. |
| US08511238B2 |
Steerable truck for a railway car, a railway car, and an articulated car
A steerable truck for a railway car is provided with a truck frame that is steered so as to be aligned with the tangential direction of a curved track by controlling only the steering angle of a rear wheelset. During travel along a curved track, the steering angle, which is the angle in a horizontal plane of the centerline of the rear wheelset with respect to an imaginary straight line connecting the center of the truck frame and the center of the curved track, is larger than the steering angle which is the angle formed between the imaginary straight line and the centerline of the front wheelset. As a result, a steerable truck for a railway car which has excellent ability to travel along a curve and which can be actually realized simply and at a low cost is provided. |
| US08511235B2 |
Linear transport device
Disclosed is a linear transport device. A platform car of the linear transport device is detachably mounted on a rail fixed to a base in an opposing direction along which the platform car faces the mounting surface of the base. A linear motor that drives the platform car is provided. The linear motor includes a stator disposed on the base and a mover disposed on the platform car so as to face the stator. One of the stator and the mover is a permanent magnet, and the other is an electromagnet. A relative position variable mechanism for relatively displacing the stator and the mover so as to reduce the magnetic suction force generated between the stator and the mover is provided. |
| US08511234B2 |
Snow sled towing device
A device and system for towing snow sleds either alone or with one or more riders along the surface of a snow cover slope to a higher position includes a tow cable extending continuously along a closed loop path between the starting position and the arriving position along the slope. Tow cable pulleys are located at the starting position and the arriving position upon which the cable is supported and driven. A drive motor is operatively connected to one of the cable pulleys and operating to rotatingly drive the pulley to drive the cable through the closed loop path. One or more tow hooks are connected in series at spaced intervals to the tow cable for conjoint movement therewith. Additional embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08511233B2 |
Projectile for fire arms
A projectile for fire arms formed in such a way that it includes a front portion of essentially convex axial cross-section that via a transition transforms into a rear portion of essentially cylindrical radial cross-section, which rear portion acts as a power belt for the projectile. |
| US08511231B2 |
Less than lethal projectile and a method for producing the same
A less than lethal projectile and method of producing the same comprising of a sealed filled polymeric pouch containing a shot within. The sealed filled polymeric pouch is formed in a form, fill, and seal machine. An automatic loading ammunition machine is fed empty shell casings; the ammunition machine automatically loads the empty shell casing with pre-determined quantities of wad, primer, and gun powder, and subsequently moves the sealed filled polymeric pouch into a projectile compartment of the empty shell casing producing a fully-loaded shell casing to be loaded into a barrel of an ammunition. The polymeric pouch is capable of being inserted into various shell casings depending on the intended use thus allowing for officers and soldiers to select from an array of munitions when confronted with a situation where less than lethal means are required. |
| US08511224B2 |
Packing and steam cooking device and method for manufacturing steam cooking device
An insertion hole (83a) is provided in a packing (83) and a rotating shaft (81a) is inserted into the insertion hole (83a). A sliding portion (83b) forming an air clearance (83c) is provided on the outside of the packing (83). The rotating shaft (81a) is inserted into the insertion hole (83a) with a grease G applied to the circumferential surface thereof. When the rotating shaft (81a) is inserted, the grease G is shaved off by the sliding portion (83b) and a sufficient amount of the grease G is stored in the air clearance (83c). Consequently, frictional sound and heat are and thus reduced between the rotating shaft (81a) and the packing (83), the sliding portion (83b) can come into tight contact with the rotating shaft (81a), thereby enhancing airtightness. |
| US08511221B2 |
Apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage, in particular a chocolate-based beverage in a coffee machine
A machine for preparing coffee and milk based beverages having a steam generator, a first apparatus for producing coffee as well as a source of liquid milk and a second apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage from a concentrated fluid product. The second apparatus includes a beverage preparation device associated with a second dispenser connected via first line to a first connector unit of the second apparatus to receive a concentrated fluid product pre-diluted in the first connector unit and, via a second line, to the source of liquid milk to complete dilution and obtain a diluted product to be dispensed from the beverage preparation device. |
| US08511212B2 |
Cord wrap handle
A miter saw includes a base, a table rotatably mounted on the base, a blade and motor assembly pivotally coupled to a frame support that is attached to the table, and a power cord coupled to the blade and motor assembly. The frame support, the base, and/or the blade and motor assembly also comprises a handle portion that includes a grip with an opening disposed at an outer end thereof, with the grip also having a pair of arcuate surfaces disposed at opposing sides thereof for retaining the power cord when wrapped around both surfaces. |
| US08511206B2 |
Ratchet wrench with rotatable driving head
A ratchet wrench includes a body, a driving head, a control member and a resilient member. The body includes a handle and a Y-shaped extension. The driving head is pivotably connected to the Y-shaped extension by two pivots and an inner groove and a recess are respectively defined in the inside of the Y-shaped extension. The inner groove accommodates the C-shaped plate of the control member and the resilient member is received in the recess. The C-shaped plate has engaging teeth defined in distal ends thereof and the pivots each have ratchet teeth which are engaged with the engaging teeth by moving the control member so as to control the rotation of the driving head relative to the body. |
| US08511203B2 |
Compliant cam of composite materials
A compliant cam system includes a cam having a cam body rotatable with respect to a cam rotational axis. The cam body has a cam body center spaced from the cam rotational axis. At least a portion of the cam is an elastically compressible material. A follower having at least one follower surface is in contact with the compressible material portion of the cam. A cam non-deflected condition is defined when an elastically compressible material portion outer surface is in contact with the cam follower surface prior to deflection of the elastically compressible material portion. The cam when thereafter rotated with respect to the cam rotational axis moves the cam body center toward the follower. The elastically compressible material portion deflects, defining a deflected condition, creating a biasing force acting toward the follower, and releasably frictionally engaging the elastically compressible material portion with the follower. |
| US08511202B2 |
Ignition switch operation restricting device
An operation restricting device includes an operation knob to be turned by a user, a rotor member to rotate integrally with the operation knob, a case member enclosing the rotor member to be rotatable therein, a stopper member being movable along a radial direction of the rotor member in the rotor member, the stopper member restricting a rotation of the rotor member by engaging with a wall part of the case member, a spring for always providing a spring force biasing the stopper member outside the rotor member in the radial direction, a solenoid to retain a plunger by being energized, and a link member rotatably engaging with the plunger. When the solenoid is energized, the turning of the operation knob allows the stopper member to move back into the rotor member against the spring force such that the engaging of the stopper member is released. |
| US08511200B2 |
Speed control device for bicycle
A speed control device which is adapted to be used in connection with a derailleur type bicycle has one operation mode for up-shifting the speed and another operation mode for down-shifting the speed. The two operation modes can be affected by an operation lever, with the operation lever pivoted in a first plane for the up-shifting operation and in a second plane for the down-shifting operation. |
| US08511199B2 |
Robot arm assembly
A robot arm assembly includes a support arm, a connecting arm, and an end arm. The support arm is rotatably assembled with the connecting arm along a first axis, and is located at one end of the connecting arm. The end arm is rotatably assembled to the other end of the connecting arm along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis, such that the connecting arm is rotatably assembled between the support arm and the end arm. |
| US08511196B2 |
Traction drive system
A traction drive system for an articulated robotic arm. The traction drive system can include an input drive disk, a spider, an array of traction balls, a traction plate, an output drive shaft, a clamping device to load the traction balls, and an absolute rotation position sensor system. The rotation of the output drive shaft can be coupled to the rotation of the input drive disk while the traction balls are frictionally engaged to the drive disk surface and traction plate surface. The rotational connection can be decoupled when the traction balls are not frictionally engaged to the drive disk surface and traction plate surface. A rotational position sensor located in proximity to the traction drive can provide absolute rotational position feedback of the output drive shaft. |
| US08511194B2 |
Transmission drive unit
A transmission drive unit (1) comprising a drive motor (2) having an output shaft (3) and an output toothing (4), a threaded spindle (8) having a worm wheel (5) that is in engagement with the output toothing (4), a first housing part (6) produced from plastic, having axial bearing locations (65, 66) and radial bearing locations (63, 64) for supporting the threaded spindle (8), and a second housing part (7) produced from metal, having a through opening (75) for the through passage of the threaded spindle (8), and at least one coupling region (76, 77) for fixing the transmission drive unit (1) to a component. |
| US08511193B2 |
Supporting structure of shaft of reduction gear
A first shaft at which a first gear is provided is supported by an angular roller bearing in which a pair of roller rows and which is rolling elements incorporated in a back-to-back combination, and a midpoint of a projection range of a range where the first gear and a second gear mesh with each other on the first shaft is made to exist in a span of a working point of the pair of roller rows of the angular roller bearing on the pinion shaft. |
| US08511192B2 |
System and method of positional control with backlash compensation
A device for preventing backlash in a gear train, comprising a first and second drive gear, driven by a first and second motor, with a driven gear, a system controller defining a nominal trajectory of said driven gear, a position feedback controller for calculating a speed set point, a phase controller for calculating a difference between said first and second motor torque, providing torque upper and lower levels, comparing said difference to said upper and lower levels and adjusting the phase set point for said first and second motors based at least upon the comparing, where the phase is reduced if said difference is greater than or equal to said upper level, said phase is increased if said difference is less than or equal to said lower level, and said phase is kept constant if said difference is greater than said lower level and less than said upper level. |
| US08511191B2 |
Rack shaft support device
A rack shaft support device includes: a rack shaft support member that is accommodated inside a retention hole formed in a housing so as to slide in an axial direction of the retention hole, and slidably supports a rack shaft; a sealing member fixed to an inlet port of the retention hole; an intermediate member that is interposed between the rack shaft support member and the sealing member; a torsion spring that couples the sealing member and the intermediate member; a cam mechanism that converts a rotational force of the intermediate member induced by untwisting of the torsion spring to a force by which the intermediate member pushes the rack shaft support member; an opposing portion that opposes a rear surface of the rack shaft support member; and an annular elastic member that is interposed between the rear surface of the rack shaft support member and the opposing portion. |
| US08511188B2 |
Linear kinetic energy to rotational kinetic energy converter
An energy conversion system that converts linear kinetic energy to rotational kinetic energy is disclosed. A force is applied to a coil spring, compressing the spring. The spring drives an arm forward as the spring returns to its uncompressed state. The arm, in turn, causes the driving portion of an over-running clutch to rotate forward and drive an output shaft. The linear motion of the arm being driven forward by the spring is converted to rotational kinetic energy in the output shaft. The output shaft may then be connected to an external device to drive that device. |
| US08511185B2 |
Sensor device protected by a film layer and a resin layer
A sensor element assembly, including: a sensor element; lead frames provided with the sensor element therebetween, the lead frames fixing the sensor element; a first head protection film protecting the sensor element fixed between the lead frames; an insulating film covering the first head protection film and the lead frames to insulate the lead frames; and a second head protection film (resin layer) further covering the head covered with the insulating film. The sensor element assembly is advantageous in that an epoxy resin layer is formed on a film layer covering a sensor element, so that the strength of the sensor element assembly can be maintained by the epoxy resin layer itself, thereby improving the impact resistance and compressive strength thereof. |
| US08511184B2 |
Device for taking samples from the bottom boundary layer of a water body
Device for taking samples from the bottom boundary layer of a water body, consisting of compact bottom sediments, overlying water-saturated mud layer, and near-bottom water layer directly connected with the latter, belongs among oceanographic devices. Disturbance of the probes' structure is avoided by the construction of the device with several shorter tubes with their inlet holes being located at different heights, instead of one long sampling tube. There are distinctive tubes for taking samples from layers at different heights from the bottom. The sampling tube divided into sections is furnished with isolating valves that divide the interior of the tube into layers isolated from each other. Soft and regulated drop of the device is achieved using the inflatable contact belt. Using an upper inflatable balloon avoids the vertical stability of the device and raising it to the surface without cabling. |
| US08511174B2 |
Strain sensor and corresponding sensor arrangement
The invention relates to a sensor as a built-in component of an object, especially an elastic object, the sensor comprising a polymer material containing electroconductive additives according to the invention and thereby acting as an expansion sensor (2), in that it measures the static and dynamic expansions of the object in relation to the acting forces and also monitors the changes of the polymer material generated by the static and dynamic expansions of the object over time. The invention also relates to a sensor arrangement (1) acting especially in combination with the following components: an expansion sensor (2), a fixed resistor (3), an analog/digital converter (4), a micro-controller comprising a memory (5), a radio interface (6), a controlled current/voltage source (7), an energy supply (8), a coupling coil (9), and a receiving unit (10). |
| US08511171B2 |
Device for measuring environmental forces and method of fabricating the same
A device for measuring environmental forces, and a method for fabricating the same, is disclosed that comprises a device wafer, the device wafer comprising a first device layer separated from a second device layer by a first insulation layer. The first device wafer is bonded to an etched substrate wafer to create a suspended diaphragm and boss, the flexure of which is determined by an embedded sensing element. |
| US08511165B2 |
Electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) combined with piezoelectric transducer (PZT) for dual mode ultrasonic inspection
An EMAT that generates horizontally polarized shear ultrasonic waves is combined with a PZT that generates longitudinal ultrasonic waves to provide simultaneous or sequential inspection of a test component material for improved accuracy in estimating properties of the material or detecting and estimating the dimensions of defects in the material. The transducer combination is constructed so that the EMAT and PZT elements are concentric and therefore interrogate approximately the same volume of the test component material. Nonferromagnetic insulators, such as elastomers, are installed on the bottom surface of PZT component to increase the transmission and reception the ultrasonic waves into the test component. Ferromagnetic, acoustic-absorbing materials are installed on the top surface of the EMAT coil component to minimize generation of ultrasonic waves in the bias magnet. |
| US08511162B2 |
Piezoelectric film and method of manufacturing the same, ink jet head, method of forming image by the ink jet head, angular velocity sensor, method of measuring angular velocity by the angular velocity sensor, piezoelectric generating element, and method of generating electric power using the piezoelectric generating element
The purpose of the present invention is to provide an angular velocity sensor capable of measuring an exact angular velocity, an ink jet head capable of producing an exact amount of ink, and a piezoelectric generating element capable of generating electric power due to positive piezoelectric effect.In the present invention, a piezoelectric film comprising a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode is used. The first electrode comprises an electrode layer having a (001) orientation. The piezoelectric layer comprises a (NaxBiy)TiO0.5x+1.5y+2—BaTiO3 layer (0.30≦x≦0.46 and 0.51≦y≦0.62) having a (001) orientation. |
| US08511161B2 |
Physical amount detecting device
A physical amount detecting device includes: one pair of first driving vibration arms are bending-vibrated in a Z-axis direction with a first phase, one pair of second driving vibration arms are bending-vibrated in the Z-axis direction with a second phase that is a reverse phase of the first phase, the one pair of the first driving vibration arms and the one pair of the second driving vibrating arms are vibrated in a Y-axis direction with opposite phases by a Coriolis force that is generated in accordance with angular velocity of a X-axis rotation, and one pair of detection vibration arms are bending-vibrated in the X-axis direction with opposite phases in accordance with vibration of the one pair of the first driving vibration arms and the one pair of the second driving vibration arms in the Y-axis direction. |
| US08511160B2 |
Combined hydrogen and pressure sensor assembly
The invention provides a housing for a sensor having a semiconductor element for measuring hydrogen concentration in an insulating fluid in electric power generation, transmission, and distribution equipment having a mounting flange on the equipment providing access to the interior of the equipment and provided with a plurality of bolt receiving openings arranged on the mounting flange in a first pattern, which includes a first flange having at least one or more openings for receiving one or more semiconductor hydrogen sensors and an outer periphery, a plurality of bolt receiving apertures arranged in a pattern corresponding to the first pattern within the outer periphery of the first flange, a second flange having a second plurality of bolt receiving apertures arranged in a pattern corresponding to the first pattern within the periphery of the second flange. |
| US08511155B2 |
Devices including a mechanochromatic material for indicating pressure
The present invention relates to devices that include a mechanochromatic material (10) which changes color according to a pressure exerted on the device. As a result, the mechanochromatic material (10) functions as an indicator of pressure exerted on the device. A user can view the mechanochromatic material (10) to determine whether the pressure exerted on the device exceeds a threshold pressure, whereat a color change will occur in the mechanochromatic material (10). |
| US08511150B2 |
Methods and systems for determining process variables using location of center of gravity
Methods and systems for using force measurements to determine the amount of material in a container and/or the rate at which material is discharged from a container are disclosed. A container for storing a desired material is positioned so that the center of gravity of the container shifts horizontally with changes in level of the material in the container. A plurality of load sensors are symmetrically arranged at a base of the container and are used to monitor the amount of materials in the container. |
| US08511149B2 |
Detection device for fluid sample
This invention provides a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample, comprising a cup body (7), a lid (1) and a base (15), wherein, said the cup body (7) comprises a liquid storage chamber (9) and a test strip groove locating in one side of liquid storage chamber, the storage chamber (9) and the test strip groove communicates each other through a small hole in the bottom of liquid storage chamber, the test strip groove is configured with a test strip plate, said lid being able to seal the opening of the cup tightly, said opening of cup being directly connected with the liquid storage chamber. |
| US08511145B1 |
Explosive event discrimination
A computer implemented method for discriminating between launch and impact events using acoustic sensors. |
| US08511141B2 |
Stack gas measurement device and method therefor
A gas sampling device includes an analysis block defining a first portion of a chamber and a dilution block defining a second portion of the chamber. The sampling device includes an exhaust gas orifice at the first portion for withdrawing gas from the chamber in response to an applied suction, a sample gas orifice at the second portion to modify passage of a sample gas entering the chamber in response to the suction, and a dilution gas orifice at the second portion to modify passage of a dilution gas entering the chamber in response to the suction. |
| US08511139B2 |
Systems and methods for impact testing
A testing system having a retainer configured to selectively retain a specimen and a carrier configured to selectively carry the retainer along an at least partially predefined space curve from a first point along the space curve to a second point along the space curve, wherein a gravitational potential energy of the retainer at the first point is greater than a gravitational potential energy of the retainer at the second point. The retainer is configured to release the specimen in response to the retainer moving to a location that provides the retainer a predetermined gravitational potential energy. |
| US08511135B2 |
Bending apparatus
A bending apparatus for manufacturing a bent member from a steel pipe with high dimensional accuracy and high productivity can be installed in a small space with good maintainability. The apparatus has a feed mechanism for feeding a steel pipe in its lengthwise direction, a first support mechanism for supporting the steel pipe while feeding it, a heating mechanism for heating a part or all of the steel pipe being fed, a cooling mechanism for cooling the portion of the heated steel pipe being fed, a second support mechanism for imparting a bending moment to the heated portion of the steel pipe to bend the steel pipe into a desired shape by moving two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally while supporting the fed steel pipe in at least one location, and a deformation preventing mechanism for preventing deformation of the steel pipe. The feed mechanism is a vertically articulated robot having seven axes. |
| US08511130B2 |
Method for preventing or arresting crack development and propagation
A method for preventing or arresting the development and propagation of cracks in the material surrounding a fastener. The method includes introducing compressive residual stresses in the material surrounding the fastener. The compressive residual stresses offset the high residual tensile and applied stresses which the material may be subjected to in operation and thereby prevent or arrest the development of cracks. Using the output of a sensor, the surface treatment apparatus is positioned relative to a fastener. A compression tool is impinged against the surface of the material adjacent to the fastener and rotated around the perimeter of the fastener thereby inducing a zone of compressive residual stress. |
| US08511128B2 |
Ejection of residual parts from plate-type workpieces
A plate-type workpiece part ejector tool includes an upper tool portion and a lower tool portion. The upper tool portion includes a tool body, and a plurality of cutting tools that carried by the tool body. Each of the cutting tools includes a guide body having a punch. The lower tool portion has a single ejection opening. The ejection opening has at least one counter-cutting edge. The cutting tools are accommodated in the tool body so as to be movable relative to the lower tool portion, such that each of the cutting tools is optionally alignable with the counter cutting-edge. |
| US08511124B2 |
T-fitting manufacturing method and tool
A punch for forming opposite ends of a copper tube into a T includes a tapered or shovel-nose such that the spacing between the ends of the opposed punches is reduced, thereby reducing the excess copper remaining in the T once formed. A method of forming the fitting employs the shovel-nose punches in a hydro-forming process to accommodate such results. |
| US08511123B2 |
Wedge driven pipe bending machine
A pipe bending machine has a stiff-back which is driven by a pivoting wedge. A linkage applies force from the actuator to the wedge in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the stiff-back. The stiff-back pivots on a first fulcrum and the wedge slides on a bed which pivots on a second fulcrum. The actuator drives the wedge between the stiff-back and the bed to rotate the stiff-back at the first fulcrum and bend the pipe seated in the stiff-back against the pipe bending face of a die. The conversion of the longitudinal force applied to the wedge into a transverse force applied to the stiff-back provides a significant mechanical advantage which varies directionally as the stiff-back rotates about its fulcrum to maintain a constant force on the stiff-back. |
| US08511122B1 |
Remote key device
The present remote key device includes an annular frame member disposed about a central axis. The frame member includes an inner frame portion that defines a central void region interior thereto, which is adapted to house a remote access transmitter device therewithin. |
| US08511117B2 |
Plastic washing-machine tub
A plastic washing-machine tub with a front wall, a rear wall and a cylindrical wall enclosing an inner tub compartment, which comprises: two tub shells made from injection-molded plastic that can be connected together by means of an assembly plane in a tub closure direction, the first tub shell comprising the front wall and the second tub shell comprising the rear wall; an integral bulge emerging from the cylindrical wall and defining a cavity connected to the inner tub compartment, the bulge having at least one inlet and/or outlet opening. The assembly plane divides the bulge into two parts, a first bulge part being arranged in the first tub shell and a second bulge part in the second tub shell. |
| US08511115B2 |
Washing machine
A washing machine which includes a lid assembly opening/closing a laundry entrance hole, wherein the lid assembly includes a lid frame and a lid inner coupled to an inside of the lid frame and having a hinge unit, is provided. The lid assembly may be easily assembled and maintain a secure coupling, thereby allowing for a reliable and stable washing machine. Further, the lid assembly may be easily opened or closed by the hinge unit, and this increases convenience. |
| US08511114B2 |
Jewelry item and methods of making and using it
A jewelry item includes a chain, which has decorative items attached to it and which has a first fastening device to hang the item from an object such as a belt loop. A second fastening device is used to adjust the length of the object. Decorative items may be attached to the chain for providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance and for gathering together into a conglomeration to conceal the chain and providing a singular compact appearance for the jewelry item. A swivel coupled to the first fastening device permits the jewelry item to be rotated to an alternate viewing position. |
| US08511111B2 |
Automotive adsorption heat pump
An adsorber unit has an outer shell, a plurality of internal tubes extending through the shell for carrying heat transfer fluid, each tube having outwardly projecting fins along its entire length, and a solid adsorbent material in the shell surrounding the tubes such that the fins project into the adsorbent material, the fins being of a material (e.g., metal) of higher thermal conductivity than the adsorbent material. Metal wool loosely packed inside the tubes, or internal radial fins swaged into the tubes, increase internal surface area thereby enhancing convective heat transfer. Metal wool loosely packed between the external fins, or fine wire metal coils lightly squeezed between the external fins, further increase external surface area of the heat exchanger in contact with the adsorbent thereby enhancing contact heat transfer. Performance is enhanced because the external fins and wool or wire coils transport heat more efficiently to all regions of the adsorbent, and permit less non-adsorbent heat exchanger material (e.g., metal) to be used for a given amount of adsorbent. Two or more such units are used in an adsorption heat pump. This design utilizes existing components (e.g., shell-&-tube heat exchanger, internally and externally finned tubing, and metal wool or wire coils) in a novel manner heretofore untried. In one exemplary embodiment, automobile air conditioning, exhaust heat is used to power such an air conditioner. |
| US08511109B2 |
High efficiency refrigerator
A thermal storage container is coupled to a pump for circulating cooled liquid from the thermal storage container in at least one of two circuits. One circuit includes a heat exchanger coupled to the fresh food evaporator for assisting in cooling the fresh food section of the refrigerator or for chilling the liquid. Another circuit includes a sub-cooler between the compressor and condenser for cooling the hot gas output from the compressor before entering the condenser, thereby increasing the efficiency of the system. A three-way valve is coupled from the output pump to couple the stored coolant selectively to one or the other or both of the coolant circuits. |
| US08511105B2 |
Water vending apparatus
A water vending apparatus is disclosed. The water vending system includes a water vapor distillation apparatus and a dispensing device. The dispensing device is in fluid communication with the fluid vapor distillation apparatus and the product water from the fluid vapor distillation apparatus is dispensed by the dispensing device. |
| US08511102B2 |
Method for defrost control of a refrigerator and refrigerator which uses this method
A method for defrost control of a refrigerator having a refrigeration and defrost system that includes a compressor, an evaporator, an evaporator fan and a heater. The refrigerator also has a control system to control the operation of the refrigerator. The method includes stopping the compressor operation; starting a defrost process; starting the heater; maintaining a start state over a preset period of time; closing off the heater; and starting the compressor. After starting the compressor and before the evaporator fan is started to perform the refrigeration operation, the evaporator fan is operated at least once briefly and intermittently. |
| US08511100B2 |
Cooling of superconducting devices by liquid storage and refrigeration unit
A system is disclosed for cooling superconducting devices. The system includes a cryogen cooling system configured to be coupled to the superconducting device and to supply cryogen to the device. The system also includes a cryogen storage system configured to supply cryogen to the device. The system further includes flow control valving configured to selectively isolate the cryogen cooling system from the device, thereby directing a flow of cryogen to the device from the cryogen storage system. |
| US08511097B2 |
Gas turbine combustor and ignition method of igniting fuel mixture in the same
A gas turbine combustor burns a fuel mixture at a high combustion efficiency and a low NOx emission, is simple in construction and exercises improved ignition performance, and an ignition method can efficiently igniting a fuel mixture in the gas turbine combustor. A gas turbine combustor provided with fuel nozzles each having a pilot fuel injection nozzle and a main fuel injection nozzle, and fuel nozzles each having a pilot fuel injection nozzle and a main fuel injection nozzle. The fuel nozzle disposed close to an igniter is provided with a local fuel injection port through which fuel is jetted out from a predetermined position in an air passage in the main fuel injection nozzle to create a combustible fuel mixture zone in the vicinity of the igniter at least while the igniter is in an ignition operation. |
| US08511094B2 |
Combustion apparatus using pilot fuel selected for reduced emissions
A combustion apparatus (10) incorporating a dry low NOx (DLN) combustor (20) that uses two different fuels (30, 40) simultaneously. One fuel (30) is premixed with air (22) for a primary combustion zone (25), and a second fuel (40) supplies a diffusion pilot flame (29). Each fuel may be selected for its specialized role, maximizing overall combustion efficiency while lowering emissions. A primary fuel (30) such as natural gas (NG) may be chosen for its economy and combustion characteristics in a lean premix. A pilot fuel (40) may be chosen for having a low diffusion flame temperature and a clean burn. An oxygenated pilot fuel such as dimethyl ether (DME) has a lower flame temperature than natural gas, thereby reducing NOx from the pilot flame. The pilot fuel (40) may be produced from the primary fuel (30) by a reformer (50) associated with the combustion apparatus. |
| US08511090B2 |
Jet engine nozzle exit configurations and associated systems and methods
Nozzle exit configurations and associated systems and methods are disclosed. An aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment includes a jet engine exhaust nozzle having an internal flow surface and an exit aperture, with the exit aperture having a perimeter that includes multiple projections extending in an aft direction. Aft portions of individual neighboring projections are spaced apart from each other by a gap, and a geometric feature of the multiple can change in a monotonic manner along at least a portion of the perimeter. |
| US08511088B2 |
Gas turbine fuel injector mounting system
A gas turbine combustor, which can enable only a swirler and a heat shield to be readily taken out from the combustor upon the exchange the swirler and the heat shield. The gas turbine combustor includes: a combustion cylinder; a fuel injection unit for supplying fuel to a head portion of the combustion cylinder; a support member configured for allowing the fuel injection unit to be supported by the combustion cylinder; and a heat shield adapted for heat-insulating the support member from combustion gas in the combustion chamber, wherein the fuel injection unit includes a fuel injection valve for injecting the fuel, and a swirler for supplying compressed air to the fuel injected from the fuel injection valve while swirling the compressed air. The swirler and heat shield are connected together, constituting a swirler unit. This swirler unit is detachably attached to the support member via a fastening member. |
| US08511085B2 |
Direct evaporator apparatus and energy recovery system
In one aspect, the present invention provides a direct evaporator apparatus for use in an organic Rankine cycle energy recovery system, comprising: (a) a housing comprising a heat source gas inlet, and a heat source gas outlet, the housing defining a heat source gas flow path from the inlet to the outlet; and (b) a heat exchange tube disposed within the heat source flow path, the heat exchange tube being configured to accommodate an organic Rankine cycle working fluid, the heat exchange tube comprising a working fluid inlet and a working fluid outlet. The direct evaporator apparatus is configured such that at least a portion of a heat source gas having contacted at least a portion of the heat exchange tube is in thermal contact with heat source gas entering the direct evaporator apparatus via the heat source gas inlet. An organic Rankine cycle energy recovery system and a method of energy recovery are also provided. |
| US08511083B2 |
Ported shroud with filtered external ventilation
A turbocharger system having a compressor wheel including blades that define an inducer and an exducer, a compressor housing configured to receive the compressor wheel, and an impeller passage within which air is to be compressed by the blades, wherein the compressor housing forms an intake port configured to provide intake air to the inducer, and a bypass port opening into the impeller passage between the inducer and exducer. The bypass port places the impeller passage in fluid communication with the atmosphere without having a fluid interaction with the intake air. A bypass-air filter is adapted to filter air passing between the bypass port and the atmosphere, and is a portion of the intake-air filter. |
| US08511079B2 |
Piecewise variable displacement power transmission
In one embodiment, a hydraulic circuit has an input shaft, at least one positive displacement hydraulic pump, a plurality of positive displacement hydraulic motors, and at least one fluid line operatively connecting the at least one positive displacement hydraulic pump to the positive displacement hydraulic motors. In operation, the at least one positive displacement hydraulic pump is placed in an operative condition. At least one of the positive displacement hydraulic motors is also placed in an operative condition. A flow rate of fluid in the fluid line is measured, and the remaining positive displacement hydraulic motors are switched between an operative condition and a bypass condition according to the measured flow rate of the fluid. |
| US08511076B2 |
Mixing and/or evaporating device
A mixing and/or evaporating device (7) is provided through which exhaust gas can flow axially. The mixing and/or evaporating device (7) is arranged in an exhaust gas-carrying line of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine, especially of a motor vehicle, with a plurality of blades (8), which are arranged distributed in the circumferential direction and which project inwardly from an outer wall (9). Each blade (8) has a profile (10) at least in an area adjoining the outer wall (9) in the axial direction (14), in which profile a discharge edge (12) has an offset (16) in the circumferential direction (15) in relation to the leading edge (11). A reduction of the flow resistance of the device (7) can be achieved if the profile (10) has an angle of incidence (17) each in relation to the axial direction (14) at the leading edge (11) and at the discharge edge (12), which angle is in a range of −10°, inclusive to +10°, inclusive. |
| US08511073B2 |
High efficiency cogeneration system and related method of use
The invention is directed to a high efficiency cogeneration system capable of creating electricity and usable heat. The invention includes a fuel source, which can be a reservoir filled with a fossil fuel. The fuel source feeds a modified combustion engine that can turn a shaft to power an alternator to create electricity. The combustion engine creates hot gases that are treated by a catalytic converter. The byproduct and hot gases are then fed into one or more cooling manifolds. |
| US08511058B2 |
Convertible gas turbine propulsion system
A convertible gas turbine propulsion system operates in multiple output modes. The convertible gas turbine propulsion system comprises a gas generator, a first power turbine, a secondary propulsion system and an exhaust duct. The gas generator is configured to produce exhaust gas. The first power turbine is aligned with the gas generator to receive the exhaust gas. The secondary propulsion system is in series with the gas generator and the first power turbine. The exhaust duct coaxially extends from the first power turbine to the secondary propulsion system. The exhaust duct includes an exhaust port for opening the exhaust duct to ambient air pressure and permitting exhaust gas to bypass the secondary propulsion system. In various embodiments of the invention, the first power turbine is connected to a first rotary propulsion system, and the secondary propulsion system comprises a second power turbine or a nozzle. |
| US08511052B2 |
Windrow merger
A windrow merger including three pickup and transfer units, a folding system, and a plurality of float mechanisms. The folding system employs simultaneous rearward, outward, and upward folding motion so as to ensure none of the units interfere with the other units while folding, and likewise while unfolding. The folding system can further fold and unfold each of the three pickup and transfer units at the same time. During merging operations, the plurality of float mechanisms of the windrow merger limits the range of motion of each pickup and transfer unit. The float mechanisms further transfer a portion of the weight of each pickup and transfer unit from the ground to the frame of the merger. The units of the windrow merger can also include a rub rail having a surface that reduces swirling or clumping of material as the material is conveyed toward an end of the windrow merger. |
| US08511051B2 |
Berry harvesting machine, especially grape harvesting machine, equipped with a shaking system and mechatronic shaking control for this system
Berry, such as grape, harvesting machine includes a plurality of superimposed shakers formed by flexible bars, and attached through their ends to two vertical shafts. At least one shaft is an oscillating actuation shaft controlled by a mechatronic shaking control permitting an oscillating movement. The mechatronic shaking control includes an eccentric system connected to the actuating shaft through a connecting rod, and the rotation axis of the eccentric system is mounted with an orientation adjustable in a plane parallel to the median plane of the machine so that any modification of this orientation permits to modify the amplitude of the oscillating movement of the actuating shaft, and, consequently the amplitude of the shaking movement of the shakers. |
| US08511050B1 |
Draper support of a crop harvesting header
A crop harvesting header with a cutter bar and a draper assembly has a draper driven by a drive roller at one end and an idler roller at the other end. The draper is carried on a plurality of support rollers parallel to the first and second rollers for supporting the upper run of the draper at spaced positions therealong. The draper includes a front edge of the upper run of the draper arranged at a position adjacent to but spaced from the cutter bar and there is provided an integral extruded sealing member extending along the cutter bar defining a first stiffer portion attached to the cutter bar and a second flexible blade portion which extends rearwardly from the first portion at the cutter bar to lie over and in contact with a bead along a front edge portion of the draper. |
| US08511047B2 |
Device for mixing and dispensing fluids
One aspect of the invention pertains to a device for mixing and dispensing fluids, which generally includes a housing; a mixing chamber having a first inlet for introducing a first fluid into the mixing chamber, a second inlet for introducing a second fluid into the mixing chamber, and an outlet through which fluid may exit the mixing chamber; and a valving rod received within the mixing chamber and movable between an open position, in which the first and second inlets are in fluid communication with the mixing chamber, a cleaning position, in which the valving rod substantially seals closed the first inlet but does not seal closed the second inlet, and a closed position, in which the valving rod substantially seals closed the first and second inlets. |
| US08511044B2 |
Composite connection for a wind turbine tower structure
A tower section for a wind turbine tower structure comprises at least two shell segments defining, in an assembled condition, a substantially hollow structure, and including first connecting means for mutually joining two adjacent shell segments along a joint, which comprise a column of concrete arranged overlapping at least part of the joint between adjacent shell segments. A method for building a tower section for a wind turbine tower structure and a wind turbine comprising a nacelle having rotatable blades and a vertical tower made of at least one of such tower sections are further provided. |
| US08511041B2 |
Assembly for the temporary attachment of a vertical masonry guide to the inner leaf of a cavity wall
Assembly for temporarily attaching a vertical masonry guide to an inner leaf of a cavity wall during laying of the bricks of an outer leaf of a cavity wall, comprising an inner leaf attaching part for attaching the assembly to the inner leaf, a masonry guide attaching part for attaching the assembly to the masonry guide, and a connecting part for mutually connecting the inner leaf attaching part and the masonry guide attaching part. |
| US08511037B2 |
Multi-storey insulated concrete form structure having openings and method of construction
An insulated concrete form structure is provided that includes a structure opening through the structure. The structure opening being defined by form edges and opening forms bonded to a concrete core of the structure. A method is provided that includes erecting a set of spaced apart forms on a base, positioning opening forms in the space between the forms around a form opening through the forms, securing the opening forms around the form opening, and pouring concrete to fill the space between the forms, around the opening forms, to a top portion of the forms, thus creating the concrete core of the structure. |
| US08511032B2 |
Building structure having studs vertically movable with respect to a floor structure
A building structure is provided that includes a floor structure and a series of studs extending vertically adjacent the floor structure. A clip is provided. The clip is connected to the floor structure and projects outwardly therefrom and includes a stud retainer for engaging and retaining a flange of a stud. The stud retainer includes a channel through which the flange of the stud extends. The stud retainer is connected to the flange of the stud in such a manner that the stud can move vertically in the channel. |
| US08511030B2 |
Insulated fiber cement siding
Disclosed herein are embodiments of foam backing panels for use with lap siding and configured for mounting on a building. Also disclosed are lap siding assemblies and products of lap sidings. One such embodiment of the foam backing panel comprises a rear face configured to contact the building, a front face configured for attachment to the lap siding, alignment means for aligning the lap siding relative to the building, means for providing a shadow line, opposing vertical side edges, a top face extending between a top edge of the front face and rear face and a bottom face extending between a bottom edge of the front face and rear face. |
| US08511029B2 |
Surface repair patch
This invention is a method and apparatus for repairing a hole in a surface with a perforated repair patch. The repair patch, which is affixed to and substantially cover over the hole, is indented inwards by applying cement compound into its perforations and pushing the repair patch into the hole as the cement compound hardens. A layer of drywall compound is then applied over the indented repair patch to smooth it with the rest of the wall. The perforated repair patch may include an additional layer of mesh sheet material to minimize cracking of the drywall compound. |
| US08511028B2 |
Clip connection
Producing grid tees with a range of service duty, reflected in the use of various gauge sheet stock, that exhibit an effective uniform thickness at their cross tee slots by locally altering a grid tee in the area of its cross tee receiving slot or slots so that the grid tee has a uniform effective thickness at these area(s) that can be standardized across a manufacturer's range of tee load ratings. Preferably, a grid tee is permanently stamped with an indentation or dimple adjacent the cross tee slot and a cross tee connector has a lead edge area arranged to seat against the bottom of the indentation. |
| US08511019B2 |
Hold down system
A building comprises foundation; a first stud wall; a second stud wall; the second stud wall is disposed above the second first stud wall; a tie rod operably attached to the foundation and extending within the first and second stud walls; a first nut connecting the tie rod to the second stud wall; a first spring urging the first nut and the tie rod upwardly; a second nut connecting the tie rod to one of the first stud wall and the second stud wall, the second nut being disposed below the first nut; a second spring urging the second nut and the tie rod upwardly; the first spring is configured to carry a load at least substantially equal to the weight of a portion of a length of the tie rod disposed between the first nut and the second nut; and the second spring is configured to carry a load disposed below the second nut, the portion extending to where the tie rod is attached to the foundation. |
| US08511018B2 |
Vinyl siding outside corner mounting block
The Vinyl Siding Outside Corner Mounting Block, made of molded plastic, nailed approximately two feet apart to the outside verticle corner of a structure with one 8d box nail, makes the application of the vinyl siding outside corners simple, fast and accurate. |
| US08511017B2 |
Interlocking building system
An apparatus constituting the walls and frame of a building with a series of interlocking panels, preferably composed of two sheets of metal, bound together by polyurethane foam injected between them. The panels are secured to the floor via metallic columns found at each juncture between two panels. Electric assemblies and setups, as well as plumbing outlets are preinstalled within the panels, facilitating rapid installation. Windows, doors, and A/C vents are also crafted into the panels at their inception, prior to their transport to the construction site. It is the intent of the present invention to provide an avenue for affordable, durable, and efficient housing that may be constructed quickly with minimal effort in the absence of heavy machinery, and without any advanced tools. |
| US08511012B2 |
Frame construction for a fenestration
A window frame assembly for a window opening in which the assembly comprises a casing facing that covers the casing with a J-channel secured to the casing facing and defining an outwardly facing channel to receive bordering edges of siding material, and a casing molding having one longitudinal edge continuous with the casing facing and a second longitudinal edge outwardly and non-planar with the one longitudinal edge and engaging the J-channel. The casing molding of a color contrasting with either or both of the J-channel and casing facing. |
| US08511010B2 |
Integral catwalk support
A structural support system for a bin structure. The structural support system comprises at least two parallel and spaced apart support columns. Each column has a plurality of inner column sections adjacent to the bin structure and a plurality of outer column sections coupled to the inner column sections. The inner and outer column sections form a closed shape support column configured for transferring vertical loads from an upper area of the bin structure to the foundation. An auxiliary device such as a catwalk or conveyor system may be attached to the top of the support columns. An anchor member may be provided, configured to allow limited movement of the auxiliary structure in relation to the support structure. Associated methods for strengthening the structural support of a bin structure are also provided. |
| US08511001B2 |
Slide top shed
The present invention provides a system or kit which includes plastic components which can be readily assembled to form a structure with the use of a minimal number of tools. The components are precut so that measurements and cutting of the component materials is eliminated. This leads to a savings in wasted materials. The components are readily assembled using conventional fasteners and simple hand tools. The components have preformed notches and tabs in order to facilitate assembly of the components without the requirement for measurements. This assures that the components will be assembled correctly and eliminates the opportunity for inaccurate measurements and incorrect assembly. The enclosure is provided with a sliding roof panel and pivoting doors which permit easy access to the interior of the enclosure. |
| US08510999B2 |
Gutter retaining system
An interlocking gutter system that incorporates a gutter clip and a gutter hanger to affix a gutter to a retaining clip attached to a fascia board of a building, thereby eliminating the need to place holes in the gutter itself to insert screws or nails. The gutter hanger of the present invention is constructed of a single piece which has a hanger portion which is disposed substantially within the gutter and spans the width of the gutter to maintain the shape and structural integrity of the gutter. A vertical portion of the gutter hanger extends vertically from the hanger portion and terminates in a top portion which provides support to a leaf protection device. Alternatively, the gutter hanger is constructed of a hanger portion, and a separate vertical portion which is contiguous with the top portion, and is also slidably attachable to the hanger portion. |
| US08510993B2 |
Backlite assembly for a vehicle
In an aspect, the invention is directed to a backlite assembly for a vehicle such as a pickup truck. The backlite assembly incorporates a motor assembly and a motor driven belt engaged with a guide rail that can be mounted to a structural support that is bonded to the fixed windows of the backlite assembly. A motor driven belt is used to actuate a movable window between closed and open positions. The lower support can also integrate the rail directly therein. The lower support can additionally integrate a housing for the motor assembly. |
| US08510989B2 |
Hinge pin mounted door switch
A door position detecting apparatus comprises a switch including a body having two electrical contacts and a through-channel. The through-channel of the switch receives a hinge pin inserted therethrough and further inserted into a door hinge. Two lever arms extend from the body. Each of the arms is attached to a respective one of the electrical contacts. The arms have a first position relative to each other wherein the contacts are electrically connected to each other, and a second position relative to each other wherein the contacts are electrically disconnected from each other. Biasing means biases the arms against a fixed door jamb and a rotatable door, respectively, such that one of the arms follows movement of the rotatable door from an open position of the door to a closed position of the door. Monitoring means monitors whether the contacts are electrically connected to each other. |
| US08510986B2 |
Hydration maintenace apparatus and method
A material for maintaining hydration in plants, whether potted or in natural soils may include a substrate treated with a binder, securing a layer of hydrating particles thereto. Typical binders may include lignicite, or other naturally occurring materials such as sugars, molasses, corn syrup, gelatin, water, a combination, or the like. Substrates may include natural organic materials or inorganic materials. Various materials can serve as a hydrating, particulate coating. Polyacrylamide has been found to serve well in holding water near plants in a soil. |
| US08510985B2 |
Energy production from algae in photo bioreactors enriched with carbon dioxide
A cyclic system composed of several integrated cyclic processes and a method for production of cement and or quicklime, ammonia, desalinated water and an excess of algae cells. The system comprises of: at least cement/quicklime production plant, at least ammonia production plant, at least one water desalination unit, at least one photo bioreactor. The energy source of the system is sunlight energy. The CO2 produced by the system and other waste products are sequestrated and recycled for additional cycles of system operation. No CO2 is released to the atmosphere. The system produces a huge excess of algae cells that accumulates in arithmetic or geometrical progression. The excess of algae cells can fuel additional energy consuming plants attached to the system or can be used for other various purposes such as food and food additives. |
| US08510982B1 |
Internal light for hand gun
Disclosed is a light assembly for placement inside a handgun, with the battery of the light assembly replacing the recoil spring guide of the handgun. The recoil spring of the handgun fits over the battery of the disclosed lighting assembly. The light provides a primary or alternative light source for the user of a handgun, and may provide white light or infrared light. The light assembly disclosed may be mounted inside a handgun without making permanent modifications to the handgun. |
| US08510977B1 |
Composite magnetic tag
A tripartite composite magnetic tag comprises a thin central ferromagnetic plate sandwiched between two magnetic outer panels, which bear graphic and/or alphanumeric indicia. The composite magnetic tag is attachable by a connective means to various personal items through a composite aperture. The magnetic outer panels are interchangeable with replacement panels bearing different indicia, such that the composite magnetic tag can serve multiple identification and/or decorative purposes. |
| US08510976B2 |
Portable literature display
The present invention is a portable literature display. The preferred embodiment features a collapsible stand and sign, with a literature carousel that mounts upon the stand. The carousel is formed from a plurality of closable clamshell cases mounted upon a plurality of cross-beams and secured together in a ring. Leg flags are also provided to increase visibility. |
| US08510974B2 |
Removable footwear traction plate
A traction plate for a shoe. The traction plate is removably attachable to the outsole of a shoe to provide traction on a surface for a shoe wearer. The plate includes a flange with one or more surface-engaging elements on one face. The plate also includes two or more shoe-coupling elements. The shoe-coupling elements are inserted into corresponding receptacles in a shoe-outsole and then rotated to affix the plate to the shoe. The shoe-coupling elements may be captively attached to the plate flange or attachable to the shoe receptacle with a rotation of no more than one full revolution. |
| US08510969B2 |
Footwear with heating arrangement
A footwear which includes a footwear sole, a footwear vamp, and a heating arrangement, wherein the heating arrangement includes a rechargeable battery, a control circuitry, a heater element, a heater switch, and a recharging inlet, wherein the control circuitry includes a switching circuitry and a status indicator circuitry electrically connected with the switching circuitry, a control outlet, an intelligence control circuitry electrically connected with the switching circuitry, a thermistor, and a power control circuitry electrically connected with the control outlet. The power control circuitry includes a voltage maintenance circuitry, wherein the intelligence control circuitry is electrically connected with the thermistor. The heater element is electrically connected with the control circuitry, and is controlled by the control circuitry to selectively generate heat for maintaining a predetermined temperature at the footwear sole. |
| US08510963B2 |
Contour tracing tool
A tool for tracing a curve from a first plane (such as a wall) onto a second plane perpendicular to the first plane (such as a floor tile) is disclosed. The tool includes a base member having opposite first and second ends with first and second sliders positioned on the base member adjacent the first and second ends, respectively. The sliders are configured to bear against the first plane simultaneously. The tool also includes an arm extending away from the base member with a marking tool positioned at an end of the arm opposite the base member. The marking tool is configured to mark the second plane while the first and second sliders bear against the first plane. The base member is preferably articulated and each of the sliders preferably consist of pairs of coaxially aligned wheels. |
| US08510960B2 |
Trimmer head spool for use in flexible line rotary trimmer heads having improved line loading mechanism
An improved spool construction for carrying a length of cutting line in a trimmer head housing on a flexible line rotary trimmer wherein the spool comprises separately molded upper and lower sections of single piece construction that are pressed together in a snap fitment to define a cylindrical body portion, at least one flange projecting radially therefrom and a line receptor channel having a smooth interior surface that traverses the spool and communicates opposed open outer channel ends in the flange that are radially alignable with opposed line openings in a housing skirt, with an open channel portion in a lower spool surface to provide access to the channel intermediary of the open channel ends with the spool operatively connected to the housing for line loading and replacement without having to interrupt the operative connection between the spool and the housing. |
| US08510959B2 |
Quick-change disc mower knives
A connection apparatus for connecting a knife to a rotary disc cutterhead comprising a mounting stud having a specifically configured head disposed on the rotating cutterhead and a key hole opening on one end of the knife which permits the knife to moved into engagement with the stud and head when the knife is specifically oriented and then retained in place by the stud and head when the knife is moved into a normal operating position. A hand-operated biasing element prevents inadvertent disengagement of the knife from the stud. The key-hole opening and connection stud may also be configured to limit the angular orientation of the knife which will permit disengagement of the knife from the connection apparatus. |
| US08510958B2 |
Cartridge detachment sensor
A safety razor has a handle and a cartridge selectively detachable from the handle. The cartridge has at least one blade with a sharp cutting edge and an expected shaving utility. A connecting structure is coupled to the handle and attaches or detaches the cartridge from the handle in response to a detachment action performed by a user. A detector within the handle has an actuator coupled to the connecting structure and a sensor for generating a signal, wherein the actuator applies an action on the sensor during the action and the sensor generates the signal in response to the action. |
| US08510957B2 |
Applicator with a baffle for a hair removal device
A liquid dispensing hair removal device having a handle and a cartridge mounted to the handle. The cartridge has at least one blade. A dispensing unit is within the handle. The dispensing unit has a reservoir, a pump in liquid communication with the reservoir, and an applicator in liquid communication with the pump. The applicator has at least one outlet port and a baffle with a resilient front flap having a neutral position and a forward position. The resilient front flap is generally parallel to a rear wall of the baffle in the neutral position and generally transverse to the rear wall in the forward position. |
| US08510950B2 |
Method for making a bicycle hub
A method of making a rear hub of a bicycle comprises: swaging a straight pipe into an hour-glass-shaped semi product, extruding the semi-product to form a hub flange, punching a plurality of holes in the hub flange of the semi-product, binding an edge of an end of the semi-product, necking down the edge-bound end of the semi-product, trimming the semi-product, and chamfering the holes of the semi-product to form a chamfer structure on an edge of the respective holes. |
| US08510948B2 |
Methods and systems for forming slots in a semiconductor substrate
A method of fabricating a fluid feed slot in a print head substrate includes making a cut into a first surface of a substrate using a cutting disk having a generally planar surface oriented generally perpendicular to the first surface, and removing material from a second surface of the substrate. Making the cut and removing the material form, in combination, the fluid feed slot in the substrate at least a portion of which passes entirely through the substrate, with a full length of the fluid feed slot extending less than a full length of the substrate, and making the cut into the first surface includes providing a first completed portion of the fluid feed slot with curved surfaces at opposite end walls thereof converging from the first surface toward the second surface. |
| US08510942B2 |
Camshaft lobe and method of making same
An automotive engine component and method of producing the same. The method uses dynamic magnetic compaction to form components, such as camshaft lobes, with non-axisymmetric and related irregular shapes. A die is used that has an interior profile that is substantially similar to the non-axisymmetric exterior of the component to be formed such that first and second materials can be placed into the die prior to compaction. The first material is in powder form and can be placed in the die to make up a first portion of the component being formed, while a second material can be placed in the die to make up a second portion of the component. The second material, which may possess different tribological properties from those of the first material, can be arranged in the die so that upon formation, at least a portion of the component's non-axisymmetric exterior profile is shaped by or includes the second material. |
| US08510940B2 |
Method of fabricating a multi-trace via substrate
A method of fabricating a multi-trace via substrate is disclosed. A substrate at least having a first surface and a hole is provided, wherein the hole has a hole wall. A first conductive layer is formed on the entire surface of the substrate and the hole wall. A photoresist layer applied over the entire surface of the first conductive layer is selectively patterned to define a plurality of laterally separated regions on the first conductive layer. A patterned photoresist layer is used as a mask and a second conductive layer substantially thicker than the first conductive layer is electroplated on the laterally separated regions. The patterned photoresist layer is removed. The portion of the first conductive layer not covered by the second conductive layer is substantially removed to form a plurality of laterally separated traces extended on the first surface and through the hole. |
| US08510938B2 |
Method for assembling camera module
The present invention discloses a method for assembling a camera module. The method includes putting plural conductive bumps on a conductive contact of a substrate such that a large conductive bump is formed, and pressing the substrate and an image chip together such that the conductive contact contacts with a pad formed on the image chip through the large conductive bump to combine the conductive contact and the pad. Since there is no contact between the substrate and the image chip but the large conductive bump, the method decreases the probability for fracture between the substrate and the image chip and improves the quality of the camera module. |
| US08510933B2 |
Method of manufacturing a field pole magnet
Provided is a field pole magnet to be installed in a rotor or a stator of a permanent magnet rotary machine, the field pole magnet including: multiple magnet pieces (31 to 34) formed by breaking and dividing a single permanent magnet; and at least one magnet-piece holding member (40) configured to hold these magnet pieces (31 to 34). |
| US08510931B2 |
Method to reduce servo pattern runout on a prewritten disc
A disc drive disc stack assembly and a method for forming the disc stack assembly to reduce servo pattern runout. The disc stack assembly includes a number of prewritten discs having a servo pattern and a disc alignment mark. The first step is to place a first disc about a spindle motor hub of the disc drive. The second step is to align a disc alignment mark of the first disc in relation to a direction of a biasing force. The third step is to apply the biasing force to the first disc to engage the first disc against the spindle motor hub. The fourth step is to repeat the first three steps for each remaining disc in the disc stack assembly. The final step is to clamp the prewritten discs with a disc clamp to secure the position of each prewritten disc relative to the spindle motor hub. |
| US08510926B2 |
Method for repairing a gas turbine engine component
A method of repairing a stator assembly of a gas turbine engine includes removing a worn surface of the stator assembly to provide a revealed area, and securing additional material to the stator assembly utilizing gas metal arc welding. |
| US08510921B2 |
Display for urn or casket
A cremation urn display has a floor, a top, and a perimeter sidewall. A viewable portion on the top or sidewall includes fasteners upon which a memorial display is surface mounted. The display includes a mounted butterfly fixed in a container having a viewable display panel. No recess need be formed in the top or sidewall to accommodate mounting of the display. The display is removable from the urn, and contains a sealable capsule for retaining a portion of cremated remains. |
| US08510916B2 |
Mini flag clip
A device to connect a fabric headgear to a mini stick flag or to a mini stick banner. Functioning as a clip and a retainer as well, it applies a strong enough hold on any spot at the bottom circular thin edge of a fabric headgear and provides a cavity for a common mini stick flag or for a mini stick banner to stand straight in a nearly vertical position to let the flag or banner float above the head of the bearer. |
| US08510914B2 |
Checker-equipped door hinge device for use in vehicle
A checker-equipped door hinge device for use in a vehicle includes a check force generating mechanism having a central shaft fixed to a female bracket, a cylinder block fixed to a male bracket and having a cylinder portion, a piston slidably fitted into the cylinder portion, a detent roller supported by the piston, a check spring for urging the piston, and a detent groove provided on an outer peripheral face of the central shaft and with which the detent roller is engaged by urging force of the check spring. The male bracket includes male arm portions for sandwiching the cylinder block inside female arm portions, and a male base portion connected to the male arm portions. The male arm portion is fixedly secured to the cylinder block, and opposite end parts of the central shaft extending through the male arm portion are fixedly secured to the female arm portion. |
| US08510913B2 |
Door hinge for a refrigerator
A door hinge unit in a refrigerator which pivots a door on a refrigerator body, and holds the door to maintain an opened state or a maximum opened state at a predetermined position for preventing the door from hitting an external object and a hinge shaft from breaking, and minimizes a friction surface between a male member and a female member of the hinge for making movement of the hinge smooth and preventing the hinge from causing noise. |
| US08510911B2 |
Automatic door closing hinge and double swing door structure
A hinge, for automatically-closing a door which opens in both directions, includes a cylinder (2); an operating rod (3) to be rotatable and restricted from moving in the longitudinal direction; two substantially V-shaped grooves (33) provided on an outer periphery of the operating rod (3) in the cylinder (2) to oppose to each other; two spheres (55) provided engage the substantially V-shaped grooves (33); an upper piston (5) engaged with the spheres (55); a compression coil spring (4) disposed between the upper piston (5) and an upper end portion of the cylinder (2) and configured to urge the upper piston (5) to the other end side of the cylinder (2), and a fluid pressure shock absorbing mechanism configured to absorb a shock caused by the movement of the upper piston 5 to the other end side with a liquid pressure. |
| US08510908B2 |
Surface treating head assembly
A surface treating head assembly for an appliance such as a vacuum cleaner includes a head and a piston assembly operable to apply a force to the head. The piston assembly is connected to the main motor of the vacuum cleaner by a valve. When the valve is opened, suction airflow flows through tubes connecting the motor to the piston assembly. The resulting suction force causes the piston assembly to contract, thereby drawing the cleaner head downwards. Thus, the head is urged towards the floor surface so as to improve the efficiency of a cleaning operation. |
| US08510903B2 |
Vacuum cleaner comprising a first and second lid
The invention relates to a vacuum cleaner, comprising a first lid (3), which closes a first compartment (4), and a second lid (5), which closes a second compartment (6). The lids are combined such that the first lid is part of and the first compartment is accommodated inside the second lid. The first and the second lids (3, 5) are separately openable by means of one common actuator (9) of a locking mechanism. |
| US08510900B2 |
Wringer for mops and the like with device for filtering the washing water
A wringer for mops and the like comprising a united structure made of plastic material with two rocking bodies 1 separated by “V”-shaped channeling 2 and which are joined at the bottom by middle fins 3, the rocking bodies 1 having elastic hinge elements 14 and end portions 9 of elastic structure through which the wringer is anchored to the mouth of the mop bucket 10, the end portions 9 having spring elements 15 for recovering the rocking bodies 1. In addition the wringer 4 can have middle indentations 22 for allowing placement of a device for filtering cleaning water, which comprises a tray support 5. This device for filtering cleaning water is placed under the wringer 4. When water passes through the filtering device that is under the wringer 4, reaches the bucket already filtered with fewer dirt particles. |
| US08510899B2 |
Automatic cleaning air idler
A system and method for self cleaning an air idler are provided. An air idler non-contactingly guides printable media using a flow of fluid through a porous surface portion. Rotation of the air idler results in rubbing contact with one or more wipers, during which debris is removed from the porous surface portion. A cleaning solution is used to remove ink and/or paper residue from the porous surface portion. The cleaning solution can wet one or more of the wipers. The cleaning solution can circulate through a reservoir disposed in contact with a portion of the air idler. |
| US08510894B2 |
Surface cleaning system
An improved surface cleaning system comprising a cleaning surface comprised of microfiber material suitable to be used with a roller rotatably attached to a handle. |
| US08510893B2 |
Toothbrush with visual and/or other sensory effects
Toothbrushes comprising components with light transmitting and structural characteristics provide enhanced visual and other sensory effects. The components in combination are generally chemically compatible and function to provide areas of varying visibility of features and optionally varying scent release. |
| US08510890B2 |
Electric toothbrush
An electric toothbrush provided with a function for oscillating a brush body by rotating a weight and a function for applying current inside a user's mouth. The electric toothbrush includes a brush body. A main body includes an attachment shaft, which is formed by a conductive member. The brush body is attached to the attachment shaft. A weight is arranged in the attachment shaft. A motor rotates the weight and oscillates the brush body through the attachment shaft. A power supply is arranged in the main body. A first electrode is connected to the power supply. The first electrode is arranged on the main body in a state exposed from a surface of the main body. A second electrode is connected to the power supply. The second electrode is arranged on the brush body in a state exposed from a surface of the main body. |
| US08510889B2 |
Automated pool cleaning vehicle with middle roller
Disclosed herein is an automated pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) having a middle roller. The PCV having a housing. The housing defines an interior. Located within the interior is a pump and a filter bag. The housing also includes a bottom, which is generally curved in a concave manner. The housing further includes a chassis. The pump creates a vacuum for sucking up dirt and debris into the filter bag through intakes in the housing. The housing including first and second pairs of wheels connected to the chassis. Between the front and second wheels is a middle roller, also connected to the chassis. In a first embodiment, the middle roller includes a single roller, which is approximately the same diameter as the wheels of the first and second pairs of wheels. In other embodiments, the wheels of the middle roller are larger or smaller. In yet another embodiment, the middle roller includes a series of wheels. |
| US08510886B2 |
Process for accelerated wetting of laundry in a drum washing machine
A method for accelerating the wetting of washing in the variable-speed drum of a drum washing machine. A quantity of fresh water is introduced according to the determined quantity of laundry. The drum is driven at intervals and in a reversing manner in successive phases for a first determined length of time at an rpm which is adapted to the washing. The drum is stopped and/or driven at an rpm adapted to the wetting of the washing for a second pre-determined length of time, such that the water is especially effectively distributed over the washing by means of ladling devices located on the drum. The required quantity of washing liquid for the following washing phase is determined once the drum is driven at intervals and in a reversing manner at an rpm adapted to the washing after the second pre-determined length of time has come to an end. |
| US08510880B2 |
Passive mattress spinner
A device is disclosed for facilitating rotation of a mattress in a horizontal plane carried by a box spring or a platform. In order to facilitate rotation, slick surfaces between the mattress and the box spring or platform are selectively placed in contact in order to reduce the normal friction therebetween. The slick surfaces may be provided by two (2) separate covers; one cover for the mattress and one cover for the box spring or platform. A first cover is provided with a slick and non-slick surface. In order to further facilitate rotation, a second cover includes a slick surface on one side and forms part of a levitation device. The other side of the second cover may be formed with a slick or a non-slick surface. A levitation device creates an air cushion between the mattress and the box spring under the influence of an air supply which lifts the mattress and allows the mattress to be rotated in a horizontal plane virtually effortlessly. |
| US08510877B2 |
Toilet device of the pierced chair type including a box designed from a pre-cut planar blank and a collection bag
A toilet device including a box assembled from a flat pre-cut cardboard blank and a urine and feces collection bag includes (i) a box furnishing by way of folding and consolidation, an opening (2) in its panel (1) serving as a seat, a least two double sidewalls produced by a consolidation of angularly spaced panels (12/10a and 12a/10) and a double wall on the level of the bottom produced by the consolidation of the panels (20, 20a) and (ii) a collection bag impervious to gases and liquids, in particular made of plastic, whose upper peripheral part entirely covers the panel (1) which serves as a seat and whose bottom which contains a gelling agent, dips into the said opening (2), the said bag being fixed during use to the said box by the V slots (70, 71) and half-V slots (70a, 71a). |
| US08510871B2 |
Holographic patterned heat management material
Embodiments provide body gear having designed performance characteristics, and in particular methods and apparatuses that utilize an array of holographic heat managing elements coupled to a base material to direct body heat while also maintaining the desired transfer properties of the base material. In some embodiments, the heat managing elements include heat-directing elements that reflect heat or conduct heat, and that may direct heat towards the body of a user or away from the body of the user. |
| US08510867B2 |
Apparatus and method for matching socks
An apparatus for educating children includes a first symbol for application to a first article of clothing and a second symbol for application to a second article of clothing. The first article of clothing is worn by a user at a same time as the second article of clothing and the first article of clothing and the second article of clothing are both part of a clothing set. The second symbol is non-identical to the first symbol and the first symbol corresponds to and matches the second symbol based on a relationship of an educational topic. |
| US08516609B2 |
Personal encryption device
A method and system for securing a handheld computing device is described. A personal encryption device may be physically connected to a handheld computing device. Responsive to the connection, a main screen user interface may be displayed on a display of the handheld computing device. The main screen user interface may include at least one cryptography option for a user of the handheld computing device. A user-defined input representative of selection of a first cryptography option of the at least one cryptography option may be received, and at least one cryptography process associated with the selected first cryptography option may be implemented by the handheld computing device and personal encryption device. The cryptography options may include encryption, decryption, digital signatures, and digital signature verification. |
| US08516606B2 |
Systems and methods for challenge-response animation and randomization testing
Systems and methods are provided for challenge/response animation. In one implementation, a request for protected content may be received from a client, and the protected content may comprise data. A challenge phrase comprising a plurality of characters may be determined, and a computer processor may divide the challenge phrase into at least two character subsets selected from the characters comprising the challenge phrase. Each of the at least two character subsets may include less than all of the characters comprising the challenge phrase. The at least two character subsets may be sent to the client in response to the request; and an answer to the challenge phrase may be received from the client in response to the at least two character subsets. Access to the protected content may be limited based on whether the answer correctly solves the challenge phrase. |
| US08516605B2 |
Electronic device and software interlocking security system
The present invention provides for a security system for an electronic device that, in one embodiment, includes a processor with a software access key encrypted thereon and a software application with a processor access key encoded therein so that operation of the electronic device and execution of the software application requires both the software access key and the processor access key. |
| US08516599B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method, communication apparatus and method, and information processing system
An information processing apparatus includes: a register holding a value input thereto; a first communication path through which an addition command is input; a second communication path through which a subtraction command is input; addition means adding a predetermined value to a register value held in the register according to the addition command input through the first communication path and causing the register to hold a value resulting from the addition; and subtraction means subtracting a predetermined value from a register value held in the register according to the subtraction command input through the second communication path and causing the register to hold a value resulting from the subtraction, wherein the addition means and the subtraction means operate exclusively of each other. |
| US08516595B2 |
Method and system for estimating the reliability of blacklists of botnet-infected computers
A system and a method for determining the reliability of blacklists is disclosed. Each blacklist comprises IP addresses of supposedly infected computers. The reliability is computed by analyzing whether the blacklist reports or not controlled infections from sandboxed environments and by measuring the elapsed time between reported infections and disinfections. The obtained information is then used in combination with several metrics for determining the trustworthiness of the IP address of a given Internet host that requests an online transaction with the purpose of granting or denying access to a service. |
| US08516593B2 |
Systems and methods for computer worm defense
A computer worm defense system comprises multiple containment systems tied together by a management system. Each containment system is deployed on a separate communication network and contains a worm sensor and a blocking system. In various embodiments, the computer worm may be transported from a production network, where the computer worm is not readily identifiable, to an alternate network in the worm sensor where the computer worm may be readily identifiable. Computer worm identifiers generated by a worm sensor of one containment system can be provided not only to the blocking system of the same containment system, but can also be distributed by the management system to blocking systems of other containment systems. |
| US08516589B2 |
Apparatus and method for preventing virus code execution
An apparatus and method for preventing virus code execution through buffer overflow management are provided. When buffer overflow occurs during execution of a kernel module or application program, the apparatus and method may perform virus inspection on a program execution region moved by the buffer overflow. |
| US08516587B1 |
Using temporal attributes to detect malware
Techniques for classifying unknown files taking into account temporal proximity between unknown files and files with known classifications are disclosed. In response to a classification request for a target file, client systems hosting (or hosted) instances of the target file are identified. For each system, files created around the time the target file was created on the system are identified. Within the identified files, files with known classifications are identified, and a score is determined for each such file to measure temporal proximity between the creation of the file and the creation of the target file. Local temporal proximity scores aggregate the scores for the client system. Global temporal proximity scores measures an aspect of the local temporal proximity scores for all identified client systems. The global temporal proximity scores are fed into a classifier to determine a classification, which is returned in response to the classification request. |
| US08516585B2 |
System and method for detection of domain-flux botnets and the like
In one embodiment, a method for detecting malicious software agents, such as domain-flux botnets. The method applies a co-clustering algorithm on a domain-name query failure graph, to generate a hierarchical grouping of hosts based on similarities between domain names queried by those hosts, and divides that hierarchical structure into candidate clusters based on percentages of failed queries having at least first- and second-level domain names in common, thereby identifying hosts having correlated queries as possibly being infected with malicious software agents. A linking algorithm is used to correlate the co-clustering results generated at different time periods to differentiate actual domain-flux bots from other domain-name failure anomalies by identifying candidate clusters that persist for relatively long periods of time. Persistent candidate clusters are analyzed to identify which clusters have malicious software agents, based on a freshness metric that characterizes whether the candidate clusters continually generate failed queries having new domain names. |
| US08516582B2 |
Method and system for real time classification of events in computer integrity system
Method and system using a designated known secure computer for real time classification of change events in a computer integrity system are disclosed. In the embodiment of the invention, the known secure computer, having only inbound connection, is dedicated for providing permissible change events, which are compared with change events generated on client operational computers. An alert is generated when the change event at the client operational computer and the respective permissible change event provided by the known secure computer mismatch. |
| US08516581B2 |
Phishing processing method and system and computer readable storage medium applying the method
A phishing processing method includes: an information input web page comprising an information input interface, through which information is transmitted to an information receiving address, is received. Determine if the information input web page is a phishing web page. If it is determined that the information input web page is the phishing web page, fake input information is transmitted to the information receiving address. When information for verification is received from an information transmitting address, if the received information for verification is the fake input information is determined. If the received information for verification is the fake input information, it is determined that the information transmitting address is a malicious address. |
| US08516575B2 |
Systems, methods, and media for enforcing a security policy in a network including a plurality of components
Systems, methods, and media for enforcing a security policy in a network are provided, including, for example, receiving a plurality of events describing component behavior detected by a plurality of sensors, each sensor monitoring a different component of a plurality of components; attributing a first event of the plurality of events to a first principal; attributing a second event of the plurality of events to a second principal; determining whether the first and second events are correlated; storing a data structure that attributes each of the first and second events to the first principal, if it is determined that the first and second events are correlated; comparing the second event to the security policy; and modifying network behavior to enforce the security policy against the first principal based on the comparison of the second event to the security policy and the attribution of the second event to the first principal. |
| US08516572B2 |
User certification in a structure design, analysis, and implementation system
A computer-implemented subsystem and method is disclosed for receiving user qualification data, comparing that data to certification criteria, and providing user certification according thereto, in the context of a system for designing a structure. A variety of users may be certified, including architects, designers, component and service providers, permitting authorities, builders, financers, future tenants, etc. A wide variety of certifications may be provided including by trade, by attributes of the structure, by intended use of the design system, etc. Certification may be based on general experience, references, time spent with the design system, training completed, examination passed, other certifications, etc. Certification may be stand-alone or may be part of an ongoing continuing education process. The design system may limit actions a user may perform on a design based on certification and certification level. Certified users may be connected with clients and other opportunities through the design system or otherwise. |
| US08516571B2 |
Authentication method and input device
An authentication method and an input device are provided in which a password which a user has inputted in person can be easily reproduced, and it is unlikely for a password leak to occur even when peeped at. An authentication password includes position identification information disposed in an arbitrary position in an input section of an input device. Position identification information corresponding to a first indicated position of an input trajectory inputted from the input section is acquired. Based on the input trajectory, trajectory information representing repetitions of the trajectory from the first indicated position and movement information representing a movement direction with respect to the first indicated position are calculated. The acquired position identification information, and the calculated trajectory information and movement information are compared with preset setting information, and whether they correspond to the setting information is determined, thereby the authentication is carried out. |
| US08516568B2 |
Neural network data filtering and monitoring systems and methods
Systems and methods are disclosed for filtering data in a neural network environment to filter out inappropriate content. In some embodiments, a data signal including a sensible representation is received. The sensible representation included in the data signal is produced in a sensible format. From the sensible representation in the sensible format, a clean copy of the sensible representation can be generated such that any inappropriate content present within the received data signal is not reproduced in the clean copy. Optionally, additional filtering can occur before and/or after the generating of the clean copy. The (filtered) clean copy of the sensible representation is sent to a network. Embodiments can permit the filtering of input to and/or output from a network. |
| US08516567B2 |
Distributed firewalling in a wireless communication network
A method and system for distributed collaborative firewalling in a wireless wide area communication network including a plurality of controllers, comprises a binding table that is built by the controller in response to receiving identifiers of wireless clients being served by the controller, where the binding table lists the wireless clients associated with each access port under control of the controller. A processor of the controller is operable to apply stateless firewalling on wireless communication traffic from a wireless client using the binding table, and applying, by each access port, stateful firewalling on the wireless communication traffic from the wireless client. |
| US08516565B2 |
IC chip, information processing apparatus, system, method, and program
An IC chip, an information processing apparatus, system, method, and program are provided. An IC chip includes an authentication control unit configured to authenticate a request using authentication information. The request and/or the authentication information is received from outside the IC chip. |
| US08516562B2 |
Multi-channel multi-factor authentication
Systems and methods for authenticating electronic transactions are provided. The authentication methods employ a combination of security features and communication channels. These security features can be based, for example, on unique knowledge of the person being authenticated, a unique thing that the person has, unique personal features and attributes of the person, the ability of the person to respond, and to do so in a fashion that a machine cannot, and so forth. Methods for enrolling the person prior to authentication are also provided, as well as systems for enrollment and authentication. |
| US08516555B2 |
Method and system for authenticating pay-per-use service using EAP
A method and system for authenticating a pay-per-use service using an extensible authentication protocol (EAP). The method includes requesting a client to provide an EAP ID to be used in the service when a service request signal is received from a client; transmitting an EAP payment method (EAP_CC) request signal for requesting management information of the client when the EAP ID is received; after receiving an EAP_CC response signal that includes the management information of the client, retransmitting the EAP_CC response signal to an authentication/authorization/accounting (AAA) backend server that possesses the management information of the client; and after receiving an EAP_CC approval signal for approving the service request of the client from the AAA backend server, retransmitting the EAP_CC approval signal to the client. According to the method, a user can perform an authentication of the pay-per-use service even if the user is a non-subscriber of a specified service. |
| US08516551B2 |
Providing a multi-phase lockstep integrity reporting mechanism
In one embodiment, a processor can enforce a blacklist and validate, according to a multi-phase lockstep integrity protocol, a device coupled to the processor. Such enforcement may prevent the device from accessing one or more resources of a system prior to the validation. The blacklist may include a list of devices that have not been validated according to the multi-phase lockstep integrity protocol. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08516548B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516547B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516546B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516543B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516542B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516540B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for facilitating communication in an interoperability network
Methods and apparatus are described for facilitating communication among a plurality of entities via an interoperability network. Each entity has policy data corresponding thereto governing interaction with the entity via the interoperability network. A message is transmitted from a first one of the entities to a second one of the entities. The first entity has first policy data corresponding thereto and the second entity has second policy data corresponding thereto. The transmitted message was handled in the network according to combined policy data representing a combination of the first and second policy data. |
| US08516539B2 |
System and method for inferring access policies from access event records
A method of security gateway policy definition to quickly infer a new policy based on event data extracted and analyzed using business logic and workflow from a gateway event log or behavior log. The method includes reading the components of a log record, translating the components into acceptable policy attributes, creating a new policy based on those attributes, and presenting the new policy to a system administrator for editing and approval. |
| US08516533B2 |
Second screen methods and arrangements
The present technology concerns cell phones and similar devices, and their use in conjunction with media content (electronic and physical) and other systems (e.g., televisions, digital video recorders, and electronic program directories). Some aspects of the technology particularly concern “second screen” applications that sense a television program being watched by a user, and present menus of complementary content on the phone touchscreen from which the user can select. This complementary content can include other video content, associated web pages, opportunities to buy merchandise related to the program, etc. This complementary content can be identified by a provider of the television program, or can be identified otherwise (e.g., by crowd-sourcing). In some embodiments, the phone instructs a remote DVR to record content of interest for later viewing. The technology also provides features for making TV watching a social experience—involving remote friends. A great number of other arrangements and details are also disclosed. |
| US08516529B2 |
Methods and apparatus for packetized content delivery over a content delivery network
Methods and apparatus for delivery of packetized content (e.g., video, audio, data, etc.) over a content delivery network. In one embodiment, the content is packetized using an Internet Protocol (IP), and delivered by a service provider over both managed and unmanaged networks to subscribers of the provider, so as to provide delivery at any time, at any location, and via any designated user device. The delivered content may originate from the service provider, third-party content sources (e.g., networks or studios), the subscriber(s) themselves, or other sources including the Internet. Use of a common control and service functions within the network afford the ability to integrate or blend services together, thereby affording the service provider and subscriber new service and economic opportunities. Content delivery sessions may also be migrated from one device to another. A network-based user interface infrastructure, and gateway-based client-side architecture, are also disclosed. |
| US08516528B2 |
Synchronization of 2nd screen applications
A method and system to synchronize a user experience between multiple output devices. The synchronization may be facilitated with communications between the multiple output devices timed relative to content, event, actions, and occurrences taking place within media being accessed by at least one of the multiple output devices. |
| US08516527B2 |
Electronic media communication system with a displayed code
A method and apparatus for the distribution of electronic media for distribution to employees of a subscriber. The system includes a controller having a storage on which an electronic media collection is stored, and a display connected to the controller for displaying selected electronic media collection. The display is provided with a first and a second frame where each frame displays selected electronic media from the electronic media collection. The system provides for a customer to set the electronic media collection. The system may further include a code, presented on the display that may be scanned and present additional information to the viewer. The additional information may be pushed to the scanning device, or the scanning device may be navigated to a website where the information may be presented. |
| US08516522B2 |
Apparatus and method of controlling broadcast services
Provided is the broadcast service controlling apparatus and method. The broadcast service controlling method may perform grouping, into a broadcast group, broadcast services having the same transmission feature, may control scheduling information associated with the broadcast services included in the broadcast group and thus, may dynamically perform scheduling with respect to broadcast services. |
| US08516519B2 |
Method and image display device for setting definition
Provided are a method and image display device for setting a definition of an image. According to the method, contents are received and a definition selected by a user is received. A definition selection menu to display at least one definition for the contents is displayed and it is determined whether a definition that the user selects is supported by the image display device to display an image on the basis of the definition that the user selects. Then, an optimal definition is displayed on the definition selection menu to display the received contents with the optimal definition in the image display device. |
| US08516517B1 |
System and method for wirelessly broadcasting advertisements
A system, method and a computer-readable medium having a computer-readable code embodied therein for wirelessly broadcasting advertisements to handheld television receivers, the method includes: selecting a first advertisement to broadcast to a first group of handheld television receivers within a cell that are tuned to a first program; wherein the selecting is responsive to profiles of a first group of users that use the first group of handheld television receivers; selecting a second advertisement to broadcast to a second group of handheld television receivers within the cell that are tuned to a second program; wherein the selecting is responsive to profiles of a second group of users that use the second group of handheld television receivers; and wirelessly broadcasting a multiplex that comprises the first program, the second program, the first advertisement and the second advertisement. |
| US08516516B1 |
Interactive television offer presentations
A method, a system, and computer readable medium comprising instructions for interactive television offer presentation are provided. The method comprises assigning a unique marketing key to a subscriber, storing the unique marketing key and information of the subscriber in a database, detecting a request from the subscriber comprising the unique marketing key, retrieving the information from the database based on the unique marketing key, and making at least one offer of a product or service to the subscriber based on the information. |
| US08516513B2 |
Cassette with disk eject mechanism
An optical disk cassette has a disk eject mechanism that ejects a disk such as a DVD or CD. The disk eject mechanism has pushrod, transfer and kick out portions. The pushrod portion slides relative to a side of the cassette case. Pivotally mounted within the case, the kick out portion pushes a disk to eject it from the case. The transfer portion translates pushrod motion to motion of the kick out portion. In a preferred embodiment, the disk eject mechanism is a unitary body, with pushrod, transfer and kick out portions made homogeneously as a single entity, the pushrod portion being a resilient joining elbow. In another preferred embodiment, the disk eject mechanism has a transfer portion that is a rack and a pinion. The rack extends from the pushrod portion and the pinion is attached to or formed as part of the kick out portion. |
| US08516508B1 |
Automated application programming interface (API) generation
Techniques are provided for automatically generating Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) in a computing device. In one example, a request for the addition of a first API to a software infrastructure of a computing device is received. An API coding table that includes one or more initial API parameters corresponding to the first API is generated and an API coding template stored in memory of the computing device is obtained. A compiler of the computing device generates functional codes for the first API based on the API coding template and the initial API parameters. |
| US08516505B2 |
Cross-platform compatibility framework for computer applications
A computer with a platform that reduces cross-platform compatibility issues associated with executable computer components. A context for a component to be executed on a computer is detected. The context may be detected by searching metadata associated with the component and locating the context therein. If the context is not found in the metadata, then a context may be inferred in other ways, such as from a subsystem major/minor version. Execution of the component invokes one or more components of a computer operating system that provides a platform for executing operations that support execution of the component. Branch components present in the platform are used to select behaviors for the operations based at least in part on the detected context of the component. By providing a context-based selection from any of multiple targeted behaviors for an operation performed by the platform, cross-platform compatibility is improved. |
| US08516504B1 |
Method for adding device information by extending an application programming interface
A method or apparatus that allows new devices to be easily integrated with computer aided design (CAD) tools via an easily extensible application programming interface (API). In an embodiment, new devices are added by reading a new device type and assigning a sequential index value. Index values are assigned to the new devices by appending a new device type to the end of an enumeration construct. When the data structure is compiled, the new device type is converted to a sequential index value. Data values for the new device are added to a data structure and can be accessed via the index value. Because the added device type is appended to the end of the enumeration construct, the index values assigned to the original data types remain unchanged. Consequently, recompilation is only required for applications that need to access the new devices and is unnecessary for the applications that do not use the new devices. |
| US08516502B2 |
Performing java interrupt with two program counters
A method and system for performing a Java interrupt. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods comprising executing a thread having a context on a stack based on a first program counter, detecting an interrupt while executing the thread (wherein execution of the thread is temporarily suspended), and executing a method portion to handle the interrupt (wherein the method portion is executed on the stack based on the first program counter, and wherein the context during execution of the method portion is the same as during execution of the thread). |
| US08516501B2 |
Deep copying objects in a collocated environment
Systems and methods of passing arguments between client and server contexts may provide for detecting an in-process call between a client and a server, wherein the client and the server share a common virtual machine instance. An object copy from a source object of the in-process call to a destination object can be conducted based on an internal class structure of the virtual machine instance. The object copy procedure may be repeated for a plurality of source objects of the in-process call. |
| US08516500B2 |
Media data usage measurement and reporting systems and methods
An audience measurement system for gathering data reflecting usage of media data by a user by means of a user system. The user system preprocesses the gathered data into micro-level report objects. |
| US08516499B2 |
Assistance in performing action responsive to detected event
Assistance in performing an action for a detected event for a monitoring target resource whose connection is not an always-on connection to perform an appropriate action as soon as possible in response to occurrence of a failure. The assistance device stores, in association with an occurrence pattern of an event, information related to plural tasks for determining whether a predetermined condition is fulfilled, and an action to be performed by a corresponding device. Then, the assistance device calculates an index value for determining the level of probability of the occurrence pattern of the event, determines whether the calculated index value is larger than a predetermined value, and sends, to a device to perform the action, the occurrence pattern of the event the index value of which is determined to be larger than the predetermined value, and information related to the plural tasks and the action corresponding to the occurrence pattern. |
| US08516497B2 |
Architect for process sharing between independent systems/applications in medical imaging
Method and system for process sharing in a medical imaging system are disclosed. A first application system is provided capable of processing data within a second application system. A process sharing system residing outside of the second application system is configured for enabling process sharing of the first application system within the second application system. The first application system comprises a front-end unit that is made operable within the second application system by a process launcher upon occurrence of an event to facilitate processing of data accessible from the second application system through communication with the process sharing system via a pre-defined interface. The process launcher is generated by the process sharing system and deployed on the second application system. |
| US08516490B2 |
Rule-based dynamic resource adjustment for upstream and downstream processing units in response to an intermediate processing unit event
A method dynamically adjusts the resources available to a processing unit of a distributed computer process executing on a multi-node computer system. The resources for the processing unit are adjusted based on the data other processing units handle or the execution path of code in an upstream or downstream processing unit in the distributed process or application. |
| US08516489B2 |
Organization of virtual heterogeneous entities into system resource groups for defining policy management framework in a managed systems environment
Policies are implemented in a managed systems. Virtual heterogeneous entities are organized into a system resource group (SRG) hosted on a virtual volume that is accessed via a virtualization machine. Each of the virtual heterogeneous entities are visible to an application operable on the managed systems environment. The system resource group is subject to at least one membership requirement, defines a relationship between at least two of the virtual heterogeneous entities, contains at least one policy defining an operation as to be performed on the system resource group for a domain of the managed systems environment, and defines at least a portion of a policy framework between the system resource group and an additional system resource group organized from additional virtual heterogeneous entities. The system resource group expands according to an action performed incorporating the relationship, policy, or policy framework. |
| US08516488B1 |
Adjusting a resource estimate in response to progress of execution of a request
A database system includes an optimizer to generate resource estimates regarding execution of a request in the database system, and a regulator to monitor progress of execution of the request (and in some examples every step of the request), and to adjust the resource estimates based on the monitored progress. The regulator also adjusts a priority setting of the request according to the adjusted resource estimates. |
| US08516485B2 |
Extract CPU time facility
An efficient facility for determining resource usage, such as a processor time used by tasks. The determination is performed on behalf of user applications that do not require a call to operating system services. The facility includes an instruction that determines elapsed time and reports it to the user as a single unit of operation. |
| US08516481B2 |
Virtual machine manager system and methods
Embodiments of the disclosure describe system and methods for virtualized system. In this regard, the virtualized system comprises a virtual machine manager (VMM), the virtual machine manager comprising policy settings that are directly configurable by an administrator, wherein the policy settings are measured as part of a measured launch of the virtual machine manager; and at least one virtual machine that is managed by the virtual machine manager. |
| US08516477B1 |
Automated deployment tool for multiple server environment
A method is described for deploying a software application to run on each server in a group of servers configured to provide a service based on the software application. A dashboard, as a unified user interface for all of the servers of the group, is presented on a user terminal device. One or more user inputs via the dashboard automatically initiate parallel processing with respect to all of the servers of the group. The automate processing include: (i) backing up current server application code for the service, for each of the servers of the group; (ii) installing a new server application code file, for the software application, in each of the servers of the group; and (iii) restarting each server to implement the service by running the software application from the new server application code file. |
| US08516474B2 |
Method and system for distributing an upgrade among nodes in a network
A method for distributing an upgrade among a plurality of nodes communicatingly linked in a network includes: (a) introducing an upgrade element to a first node of the plurality of nodes; the upgrade element being appropriate for use by the first node for effecting the upgrade; (b) communicating the upgrade element from the first node to at least one other node of the plurality of nodes than the first node for use by the at least one other node for effecting the upgrade; (c) communicating the upgrade element from the at least one other node to at least one selected remaining node of the plurality of nodes not having received the upgrade element; and (d) repeating step (c) until the upgrade element is communicated to the plurality of nodes. |
| US08516467B2 |
Method and apparatus for enhancing comprehension of code time complexity and flow
A method and apparatus that utilizes techniques for formatting assembly and/or machine code, including using arrows, indentations and textual symbols, so that a programmer who reads the code has an enhanced understanding of the program flow. Different methods of assessing computing time complexity (e.g., the up branch method and the strongly connected subgraph method) have strengths and weaknesses but benefit from being used together. |
| US08516464B2 |
Computer system and method for resolving dependencies in a computer system
A computer system and a method are disclosed for use in automatically deploying an application program to execute with one or more library resources. The computer system includes a deployment unit which deploys the application program into a runtime execution environment. When a predetermined trigger condition is detected, the deployment unit clones a first library resource to create a clone, transforms the application to depend upon the clone and resolves the dependencies of the application using the clone. In one embodiment, the trigger condition relates to a pinning situation, whereby a library upon which the application program depends cannot be wired to the application program to resolve the dependency. Here, the clone now satisfies that dependency. In another embodiment, the trigger condition is a mandatory cloning property that requires the library to be cloned. The mandatory cloning property may also be user-specified through a user interface. |
| US08516462B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing a stack
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for monitoring and managing a stack. Usage of stack space is monitored for a plurality of threads. Usage of stack space is compared to a policy to form a comparison. An action is selectively initiated based on the comparison to the policy. |
| US08516459B2 |
XSLT-specific XJIT compiler
An Extensible Stylesheet Language Transformation (XSLT) processing environment receives an XSLT style sheet and an Extensible Markup Language (XML) input document. The XSLT style sheet is compiled into XSL byte code fragments. A just-in-time (JIT) compiler in the XSLT processing environment compiles the XSL byte code fragments into native code. The native code is executed to transform the XML input document into one or more XML output documents. |
| US08516456B1 |
Compact instruction format for content search systems
A system and method are disclosed that compiles a sub-expression associated with an inexact pattern contained in a regular expression into a plurality of microprogram instructions that can be stored in contiguous locations of an instruction memory. At least one of the microprogram instructions includes a next instruction address and a fetch length value, where the next instruction address indicates the instruction memory address of the next instruction to be executed and the fetch length value indicates the number of sequentially-executed instructions that are to be fetched from contiguous locations of the instruction memory. |
| US08516449B2 |
Detecting and localizing security vulnerabilities in client-server application
The present invention provides a system, computer program product, and a computer implemented method for analyzing a set of two or more communicating applications. The method includes executing a first application, such as a client application, and executing a second application, such as a server application. The applications are communicating with each other. A correlation is recorded between the applications and an execution characteristic exhibited on execution. An oracle is used to determine an analysis of the first application that has been executed. The execution of the first application causes a change of state in the second application and/or a change control flow in the second application. Code fragment in the first application and/or the second application are prioritized based on an evaluation produced by the oracle, and based on the correlation between the code fragments that have been executed and the execution characteristic exhibited by the code fragments. |
| US08516448B2 |
Identifying interpreted programs through class loading sequences
A solution is proposed for metering the usage of Java programs. For this purpose, each Java program to be metered is associated with a fingerprint defined by a reference sequence of classes that must be loaded for its execution. The sequence of classes that are actually loaded by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is monitored, for example, by means of a wrapper for a class loader of the JVM. The sequence of loaded classes is then used to identify the Java program in execution (which fingerprint matches this sequence of loaded classes). |
| US08516447B2 |
Computer-implemented method and system for binding digital rights management executable code to a software application
A computer-implemented method and system for binding digital rights management executable code to a software application are disclosed. The method and system include identifying a host code block in the host code section, copying the host code block from the host code section to a stub code block in the stub code section, and re-routing at least one reference of the host code block to be a reference of the stub code block. |
| US08516446B2 |
Automated qualification of a binary application program
Methods and systems are disclosed that allow automated qualification of a binary application program. A binary application program submitted from a developer can be automatically examined to determine whether the binary application program complies with rules or guidelines of a platform. If the binary application program complies with the rules or guidelines, the binary application program can be qualified, and can be distributed upon further approval. If the binary application program does not comply with the rules or guidelines, the application program can be rejected and a notification can be sent to the developer. |
| US08516444B2 |
Debugging a high performance computing program
Methods, apparatus, and computer program products are disclosed for debugging a high performance computing program by gathering lists of addresses of calling instructions for a plurality of threads of execution of the program, assigning the threads to groups in dependence upon the addresses, and displaying the groups to identify defective threads. |
| US08516443B2 |
Context-sensitive analysis framework using value flows
In general, in one aspect, the invention relates to a method for identifying program properties in source code. The method includes: identifying a set of program objects corresponding to a potential program property within the source code; identifying a function associated with the set of program objects in the source code; identifying an input and an output of the function in the source code; creating a value flow graph by: creating a function input node representing the input; creating a function output node representing the output; identifying value flow functions, where each value flow function defines a conditional dependency between a pair of graph nodes, and creating, based on the value flow functions, directed graph edges modeling a potential flow of data through the value flow graph; and identifying a feasible path in the value flow graph depicting an occurrence of the potential program property in the source code. |
| US08516437B2 |
System and method for creating, managing, and reusing schema type definitions in services oriented architecture services, grouped in the form of libraries
A computer-implemented system and method for creating, managing, and reusing schema type definitions in SOA services, grouped in the form of libraries are disclosed. The method in an example embodiment includes: grouping a plurality of Extensible Mark-up Language (XML) schema (XSD) types, each XSD type defined in an individual XSD file; using a processor to bundle the plurality of individual XSD types into a type library, the type library including a type information file to register the individual XSD types in the type library, the type library further including a type dependencies file to register dependencies between the individual XSD types in the same or different type library; importing types from a different type library, when defining derived types or aggregated types; generating Java artifacts from the XSD types; and associating the Java artifacts with corresponding XSD types in the type information file of the type library. |
| US08516427B2 |
Program binding system, method and software for a resilient integrated circuit architecture
The exemplary embodiments provide a program binder for a resilient integrated circuit. An exemplary IC comprises a plurality of composite circuit elements, a state machine element (SME), and a plurality of communication elements. Each composite circuit element comprises an element interface and a selected circuit element which may vary by element type, and which may be configurable. An exemplary program binding method includes assigning a first action to a first computational element having a first type; assigning a second action to a second computational element having a second type; and establishing a first data routing, through a selected communication element, between the first computational element and the second computational element. In the event of detection of a fault with a composite circuit element or a communication element, the various actions may be re-assigned and new data routings established. |
| US08516426B2 |
Vertical power budgeting and shifting for three-dimensional integration
A method is provided for managing power distribution on a three-dimensional chip stack having two or more strata, a plurality of vertical power delivery structures, and multiple stack components. At least two stack components are on different strata. Operating modes are stored that respectively have different power dissipations. A respective effective power budget is determined for each of the at least two stack components based on respective ones of the operating modes targeted therefor, and power characteristics and thermal characteristics of at least some of the stack components inclusive or exclusive of the at least two stack components. The respective ones of the plurality of operating modes targeted for the at least two stack components are selectively accepted or re-allocated based on the respective effective power budget for each of the at least two stack components, power constraints, and thermal constraints. The power constraints include vertical structure electrical constraints. |
| US08516417B2 |
Method and system for repartitioning a hierarchical circuit design
The invention relates to a method and a system for repartitioning a formalized hardware description of a hierarchically structured electronic circuit design unit comprising a plurality of macros in terms of latch macros and combinatorial macros. In a first step, each macro is dissected into latch macros and signal cones in such a way that each signal cone comprises signals linking macro input/output to a latch output/input, and each latch macro comprises at least one latch, each primary input an output of said latch macro coinciding with an input or an output of a latch within said latch macro. Subsequently, combinatorial macros are created by merging combinatorial signal cones along unit signal paths. |
| US08516415B1 |
Method and system for the condensed macro library creation
A method and a system to pre-scan a file, analyze data and create the Condensed Macro Library (CML) file. The method used is to find macros or cells of certain classes that are defined by rules. After a suitable macro or cell is identified, a parser scans the macro or cell pins and finds pins which have ports with the shapes defined on the specific layers defined by the rules and user data. Further processing is then performed based on a set of rules and the pin data to generate a CML file that contains relevant information regarding relevant pins. |
| US08516414B2 |
Behavioral synthesis device, behavioral synthesis method, and computer program product
A behavioral synthesis device include a profile unit that implements an electronic circuit at a reconfigurable hardware based on a first register transfer level description generated by a behavioral synthesis unit, actuates the implemented electronic circuit, and causes the electric circuit to output profile information from the actuated electronic circuit; and an optimizer that generates optimization information for optimizing a behavioral synthesis carried out by the behavioral synthesis unit based on the profile information that the profile unit causes the electric circuit to output, and outputs the generated optimization information to the behavioral synthesis unit, wherein the behavioral synthesis unit acquires a first behavioral level description, and subjects the acquired first behavioral level description to behavioral synthesis and generates the second register transfer level description based on the optimization information outputted by the optimizer. |
| US08516412B2 |
Soft hierarchy-based physical synthesis for large-scale, high-performance circuits
In one embodiment, the invention is a method and apparatus for soft hierarchy-based synthesis for large-scale, high-performance circuits. One embodiment of a method for physically synthesizing a design of an integrated circuit includes compiling a logical description of the design into a flattened netlist, extracting a soft hierarchy from the flattened netlist, wherein the soft hierarchy defines a boundary on a die across which cells of the integrated circuit are permitted to move, and placing a cell of the integrated circuit on the die in accordance with the soft hierarchy. |
| US08516411B2 |
Register transfer level design compilation advisor
Techniques and tool for selecting compilation parameter values for compiling a first description of a circuit design, such as a register transfer language description, into a second description of the circuit design, such as a model description for implementation with an emulator are provided. According to various examples of the invention, a compilation tool “elaborates” the first description of the circuit design into a third description for the circuit design. Typically, the third description or “elaboration” will cross one or more hierarchical boundaries represented in the first description of the circuit design, so that the elaboration will represent at least a portion of two or more hierarchical modules in the first description design according to a non-hierarchical or “flat” manner. Also, with some implementations of the invention, the elaboration may include only a simple representation of a corresponding portion of the circuit design. |
| US08516408B2 |
Optimization of circuits having repeatable circuit instances
Techniques for forming a first electronic circuit including a plurality of instances of a repeatable circuit element include the steps of: obtaining a total number of instances of the repeatable circuit element in a design of an IC including the first electronic circuit and at least a second electronic circuit; and configuring at least one functional parameter of the first electronic circuit as a function of the total number of instances of the repeatable circuit element in the IC to thereby satisfy a prescribed minimum composite manufacturing yield of the IC and/or at least one specification of the IC under prescribed operating conditions. |
| US08516398B2 |
Method and system for graphically delimiting text message content for a mobile radio terminal
A method for displaying written text during the preparation of a text message to be transmitted by a mobile radio terminal. Written text entered by a user is displayed. A graphical text message break is displayed between characters of the written text associated with a first text message payload and characters of the written text associated with a second text message payload, the first and second text messages used to transmit the written text as a multipart text message. |
| US08516395B2 |
One-dimensional representation of a two-dimensional data structure
A method that includes causing at least a portion of a first representation of a first file and at least a portion of a second representation of a second file to be displayed in a user interface on a display associated with a computing device, where the first file is included in a first folder included in a folder structure stored in a memory included within the computing device, and the second file is included in a second folder included in the folder structure. The method further includes receiving user input to navigate content stored in the folder structure, and, in response to the user input, causing the at least a portion of the first representation and the at least a portion of the second representation to move in a first direction within the user interface. |
| US08516393B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for presenting images in a multiple display environment
An apparatus, system, and method for presenting images in a multiple display environment. The present invention includes a computer-readable medium with instructions for receiving from a primary user a selected portion from a primary screen, where the selected portion is one of an image and a portion of a program. The selected portion is then displayed on one or more secondary screens. The primary user is presented with a tool to compose the secondary screen, and can also see the secondary user's input to the system. The invention also includes dynamically updating the secondary screen in response to changes in the program that result in a change in the display on the primary screen. Also disclosed is a multi-screen laptop computer ideally suited for multi-screen presentations, and a dual-monitor display device which can be easily connected to a computer to facilitate multi-screen presentations. |
| US08516387B2 |
Virtual address bar user interface control
A virtual address bar user interface control is presented. The virtual address bar comprises one or more interactive address segments and one or more conventional address segments. Each interactive address segment corresponds to a predefined filter comprising selection criteria applied to content stored on a storage device. Selection of the one or more interactive address segments navigates a user to content satisfying the predefined filters of the one or more selected interactive address segments. Each conventional address segment references content at the content's particular location on the storage device. Selection of the one or more conventional address segments navigates the user to content at the content's particular location. |
| US08516384B1 |
Method and apparatus for performing viewmarking
One aspect relates to saving and retrieving view-specific information that facilitates views to be saved and retrieved within an interface of a computer system. View-relevant information associated with a visual context of the computer system is saved in memory or other medium, allowing the information to be retrieved in an easy manner. In one embodiment, a computer system displays a thumbnail representation of a specific graphical view, and permits the user to select the representation, causing the system to navigate to the specific graphical view. In this way, the visual context of the computer system can be restored. |
| US08516383B2 |
System and method for developing animated visualization interfaces
A system and method are described for designing animated visualization interfaces depicting, at a supervisory level, manufacturing and process control information wherein graphical symbols in the visualization interfaces are associated with components of a process control/manufacturing information application. The system includes a graphical symbol library for maintaining a set of graphical symbol templates wherein the graphical symbol templates including a graphics definition including graphics and a reference to an application component type. The reference facilitates identifying candidate application components for creating an association between a graphical symbol instance created from a graphical symbol template and one of the candidate application components. The system also includes a graphical symbol design environment for selecting the graphical symbol template, specifying an application component corresponding to the component type, and creating an association between the graphical symbol instance and the specified application component. |
| US08516381B2 |
Suggestion of user actions in a virtual environment based on actions of other users
Embodiments of the invention provide techniques for suggesting actions to users of an immersive virtual environment based on previous user actions within the virtual environment. Generally, characteristics of actions performed by various users of the virtual environment may be stored in a searchable actions index. Subsequently, the actions index may be used to suggest actions based on similarity of the stored characteristics to those of a current user and/or actions. The suggested actions may be presented to the user as graphical indications visible within the user's view of the virtual environment. |
| US08516376B2 |
Identification system for network data processing systems
Identifying changes between network data processing systems is provided. A first number of attributes for a network data processing system are identified by a processor unit. A second number of attributes for a number of potential network data processing systems are identified by the processor unit. A graphical user interface with a graphical representation of a comparison of the first number of attributes and the second number of attributes is displayed on a display device. |
| US08516375B2 |
Slide kit creation and collaboration system with multimedia interface
A slide kit creation system and method allows reviewers of a slide kit to insert non-textual comments, such as audio comments, to be associated with selected slides. In one embodiment, audio comments are transmitted to a host computer by telephone, and may be posted on the host computer for access by other reviewers. The audio comments may also be transcribed in text form. In another embodiment, comments may be associated with various portions of a video, in the same manner. A video navigation bar is coded to indicate which portions of the video are associated with comments. Alternatively, certain attributes of the video can be altered to indicate the presence of comments associated with specific scenes of the video. |
| US08516373B2 |
Audio/visual amplifier, selection method, program, and recording medium
An audio/visual amplifier for processing video signals and audio signals includes a display controller operable to control display of a menu such that an input name, which is an item of the menu and represents a unit of an input to be selected by a user, a name of a first terminal that is assigned to the input name and that receives a video signal, and a name of a second terminal that is assigned to the input name and that receives an audio signal are displayed so as to be assigned to each other; and a selector operable to, when the user selects the input name as the item of the menu, select the video signal received from the first terminal and the audio signal received from the second terminal. |
| US08516365B2 |
Dynamically laying out images and associated text using pre-defined layouts
Technologies are described herein for dynamically laying out images and associated text using pre-defined layouts. The pre-defined layouts are created and data defining the layouts is stored in a layout definition file. An application program provides a user interface for dynamically laying out the images and associated text using the contents of the layout definition file. The user interface includes a canvas onto which a user may place one or more images and a layout gallery through which a user may select a pre-defined layout to be applied to images placed on the canvas. The layout gallery includes selectable visual representations corresponding to each of the available pre-defined layouts. When one of the visual representations is selected, the corresponding pre-defined layout is dynamically applied to images on the canvas. The visual representations displayed in the layout gallery may also be utilized to generate a preview of the layout. |
| US08516364B2 |
View model aspects of component objects
Displaying a plurality of objects on a grid. Metadata indicates an object's display column and span. A lowest position is determined from objects displayed in the same column span. The object is displayed in the column span at the lowest position. A lowest position is determined after the last object is displayed. The grid is resized to minimize whitespace beyond the lowest position to border whitespace. Display overlay of first and second graphical objects. When the first object is directly manipulated in a GUI, the second object is automatically manipulated the same way. When the first object is scrolled in a first direction by a first amount, the second object is automatically displaced opposite the first direction by the first amount. When the first object is resized in a first dimension by a first amount, the second object can be automatically resized by the first amount in the first dimension. |
| US08516363B2 |
Image processing apparatus, computer program product, and preview image displaying method
In an image processing apparatus, a plurality of images and a page allocation area including a plurality of sections are displayed. The allocation unit determines which one of the images is to be allocated to which one of the sections and allocates the images to the sections, and a preview image generating unit generates a preview image of the page allocation area based on allocation made by the allocation unit, and displays the preview image on the screen. |
| US08516357B1 |
Link based clustering of hyperlinked documents
Techniques for grouping hyperlinked documents are provided. Links near or in the neighborhood of the hyperlinked documents are analyzed in order to group the hyperlinked documents by topic. For example, links that are search results can be grouped by identifying other hyperlinked documents that have multiple forward links to the search results. The search results can then be grouped according to the forward links of the other hyperlinked documents. |
| US08516356B2 |
Real-time error detection by inverse processing
Processors, microprocessors and logical block systems and methods, error detection systems and methods, and integrated circuits are disclosed. In an embodiment, a logic-based computing system includes a first processing core; a second processing core generated from the first processing core and including an inverted logical equivalent of the first processing core such that an output of the second processing core is a complement of an output of the first processing core; and comparator logic coupled to receive the outputs of the first and second processing cores as inputs and provide an error output if the output of the second processing core is not the complement of the output of the first processing core. |
| US08516353B2 |
Symbol vector-level combining receiver for incremental redundancy HARQ with MIMO
Techniques are provided for transmitting and receiving a mother code in an incremental redundancy hybrid automatic repeat-request protocol. Each bit position of the mother code may be mapped to an output symbol, and each output symbol may be mapped to an antenna for transmission. One or more transmissions of symbols contained in the output symbols may be performed, where each transmission may include puncturing the mother code by selecting one or more symbols from the of output symbols, and transmitting each symbol in the one or more symbols on an antenna corresponding to that symbol. The mother code may be decoded, in part, by determining combinable bits contained within a set of received symbols, and computing one or more log-likelihood ratio values corresponding to each symbol in the set of received symbols. |
| US08516352B2 |
Compact decoding of punctured block codes
k input bits are encoded according to a code with which is associated a m×n=m+k parity check matrix H. The resulting codeword is punctured, with n′ |