| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08529473B2 |
Neural translator
A method and apparatus are provided for processing a set of communicated signals associated with a set of muscles, such as the muscles near the larynx of the person, or any other muscles the person use to achieve a desired response. The method includes the steps of attaching a single integrated sensor, for example, near the throat of the person proximate to the larynx and detecting an electrical signal through the sensor. The method further includes the steps of extracting features from the detected electrical signal and continuously transforming them into speech sounds without the need for further modulation. The method also includes comparing the extracted features to a set of prototype features and selecting a prototype feature of the set of prototype features providing a smallest relative difference. |
| US08529470B2 |
Lancets for bodily fluid sampling supplied on a tape
A supply of lancets for a multi-use lancing device are carried by a tape and sequentially brought from a storage position to an activating position by advancing the tape around a bend. The lancets are non-circular in cross-section along their longitudinal lengths, and in their activating position they extend from the tape such that their sharp tips are available for lancing tissue. The carrying tape can be arranged in reel-to-reel format in a housing having a lancing opening. The lancets can be integral with the tape and activated to move the lancet through the lancing opening by moving the tape along its tape path or by translating a dedicated service loop of the tape. The lancets can also be independent from the tape and activated through the lancing opening by a separate lancing actuator. A test media can be included on the carrying tape and the housing can contain a sensor to yield an integrated lancing and testing device. |
| US08529469B2 |
Fecal examination method and collection container
A method for conducting a fecal examination includes providing a collection spoon and a collection container comprising a transparent body having a cap which can be removed to permit fecal matter to be received in the collection container with the spoon to be mixed with a flotation material to aid in separating the fecal matter and ova or eggs of parasites that may be contained in the fecal matter and then dispensed through a filter mounted in the cap of the collection container to a test tube and a cover slip on the test tube for examination of the filtered material for the presence of the ova of parasites. |
| US08529462B2 |
Apparatus and method for passive testing of alcohol and drug abuse
An automated system and method for passive testing of alcohol and drug abuse. The system enters a participant or subject into the system who is to be monitored during a probationary or other program for alcohol or drug abuse offenders. The system provides a drug testing home device or a drug testing kiosk device for use by the participant. The system enrolls the biometrics information of the participant into the computer system (e.g., finger print, voice, image, volatile compound organic gas level, and pH level). When the participant is to be tested in accordance with a testing schedule, the system validates these same biometrics of the participant, conducts the test, and then analyzes the test information for determining if the participant has been using alcohol or other drugs and should be subjected to a confirming urinalysis exam. |
| US08529456B2 |
Heart age assessment
An automated method of determining a measure of a subject's heart age comprising the steps of: prompting a user for a plurality of inputs, each relating to an attribute of the subject, each attribute defining one or more of a demographic status of the subject, a lifestyle status of the subject, a physical condition of the subject and a medical history of the subject; receiving, from the user, a plurality of said inputs; determining from said received inputs, a set of parameters for which input data has been received as input from the user; selecting a heart age calculation algorithm from a predetermined set of heart age calculation algorithms according to said set of parameters; and calculating a heart age for the subject according to the selected algorithm; and providing as output said calculated heart age. |
| US08529453B2 |
Respiratory-gated therapy assessment with ultrasonic contrast agents
An ultrasonic imaging apparatus and method are described for monitoring the progress of therapy for pathology such as lesions, tumors, and metastases by means of contrast agent imaging. A sequence of images are acquired as a bolus of contrast agent infuses the tissue containing the pathology. Time-intensity curves of pathology and normal tissue are produced and used to measure perfusion in the pathology as affected by therapy. The motional effects of respiration can be taken into account during image acquisition by detecting the position of a landmark such as the diaphragm in each of the images of the sequence and discarding from processing those images which exhibit a change in the position of the landmark relative to the probe. |
| US08529450B2 |
Device for performing a cutting-balloon intervention
The invention relates to a device for performing a cutting-balloon intervention that includes a cutting-balloon catheter with an expandable balloon having axially arranged knives, with the cutting-balloon catheter having a pre-mounted stent. |
| US08529449B2 |
Method and system of thermoacoustic computed tomography
The present invention is a directed to method and system of TCT imaging whereupon data associated with unmeasured or inadmissible transducer locations is determined from data acquired at measured or admissible transducer locations. The invention analyzes measured TCT data associated with several transducer locations to provide an estimate of unmeasured data so as to complete a full data set for image reconstruction. In this regard, by measuring TCT data at many points on the surface of a hemispherical bowl or sphere in which an imaging object is placed, mathematical coefficients may be determined for the TCT data as a function of transducer location. From these coefficients, the unmeasured transducer locations may be evaluated such that data associated with the unmeasured transducer locations may be estimated and utilized for image reconstruction to improve image quality as well as improve the diagnostic sensitivities or capabilities of the TCT system. |
| US08529443B2 |
Nasogastric tube for use during an ablation procedure
Embodiments of the present invention provide a nastogastric tube for deflecting an esophagus during an ablation procedure. According to one embodiment, the nasogastric tube includes a flexible tube comprising at least one lumen having proximal and distal ends, and an esophageal deflector positioned within the at least one lumen and configured to be mechanically actuated to assume a curved profile so as to deflect a portion of the tube between the proximal and distal ends. The esophageal deflector is configured to deflect the portion of the tube proximate to a retrocardiac portion of the esophagus such that the retrocardiac portion of the esophagus is deflected away from an ablation site. |
| US08529442B2 |
Channel laryngoscopes and systems
Video-based laryngoscopes having an external centrally located channel coursing from the handle to a curved blade configured to deliver an ETT to a trachea as visualized by a non-removable, or alternatively, a removable video camera and lighting unit located beneath the external channel. The channel laryngoscope may be made for single use in a patient and discarded, or be processed for re-use. Alternatively, the channel laryngoscope may have a removable video camera and lighting member located within an internal chamber that runs parallel with the external channel. In another embodiment a laryngoscope adapter may be detachably affixable to the channel laryngoscope equipped with the non-removable camera to provide a decontaminated or sterile surface to permit re-use of the channel laryngoscope without having to undergo washing or decontamination procedures. |
| US08529440B2 |
Endoscopy systems
An endoscope insertion assembly for performing endoscopy, including an endoscope insertion tube operative for passage through a body cavity, and an optical assembly operative for inspection of the body cavity, the optical assembly being selectably insertable within the endoscope insertion tube. |
| US08529439B2 |
Endoscopic system
An endoscopic system is composed by connecting an endoscope and peripheral equipment. The endoscope has an endoscope main body, and an imaging unit, which is slender imaging optics. The endoscope is constructed so that the endoscope main body and imaging unit are freely connectable and separable. The endoscope main body has an insertion part which is inserted into an abdominal cavity, a branch member, which is a middle end of the endoscope main body, and provided in a proximal end portion of the insertion part, a first extension part provided in the proximal end portion of the branch member, a main body operation unit provided in a proximal end portion of the first extension part, a universal cord, and a connection unit, which is provided in a proximal end portion of the universal cord, and is connected to the peripheral equipment. |
| US08529437B2 |
Multifunctional surgical instrument with flexible end effector tools
A surgical tool having proximal and distal ends and adapted to transverse a curved passageway comprises an end effector disposed on the distal end of the surgical tool, the end effector having a first body section and a second body section and a releasable connector joining the end effector first body section with the end effector second body section. The connector is operable to reversibly engage the first and second end effector body sections in a first fixed position and in a second movable position. The surgical tool further comprises an actuation device for moving the first and second end effector body sections from the first fixed position to the second movable position. The end effector is adapted to maneuver through a larger radius of curvature in the second movable position than in the first fixed position. |
| US08529432B1 |
Penile implant for aiding achievement of a penile erection
A device configured for being implanted in a male patient's body for assisting the patient to achieve an erection. The device includes at least two rods and an interconnecting structure. The rods can be selectively deployed to the penis shaft when an erection is to be achieved and retracted away from the penis shaft when the patient does not need to achieve an erection. The interconnecting structure is joined to the rods and is configured to stabilize the rods while the rods are in the penis shaft. |
| US08529431B2 |
Bariatric device and method
A bariatric device and method of causing weight loss in a recipient includes providing a bariatric device having an esophageal member, a cardiac member and a connector connected with the esophageal member and the cardiac member. The esophageal member has an esophageal surface that is configured to generally conform to the shape and size of a portion of the esophagus. The cardiac member has a cardiac surface that is configured to generally conform to the shape and size of a portion of the cardiac portion of the stomach. The esophageal surface is positioned at the esophagus. The cardiac surface is positioned at the cardiac portion of the stomach. The bariatric device stimulates receptors in order to influence a neurohormonal mechanism in the recipient. |
| US08529427B2 |
Applicators and methods for intraoperative treatment of proliferative diseases of the breast
A device for administering brachytherapy to a patient includes a vessel that may be in the form of a hollow cylindrical cup, for fleshing into and substantially filling the open-ended cavity. The vessel has a closed outer end, which may be a removable cover, and a source guide penetrates the closed outer end so as to extend deep into the vessel, to receive a radiation source in the source guide. A manipulator can be connected to the radiation source, and also to the source guide, for allowing several different types of manipulation of the source orientation and position within the vessel during the brachytherapy procedure. |
| US08529422B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing of packaging container with reclosable connection
An apparatus for manufacturing and converting a container includes a platform for slidably accommodating a sheet of packaging material, an actuation mechanism for feeding the sheet through the platform, and a gluing device for applying glue to a portion of the sheet. The apparatus further includes a magnet applicator assembly housing a plurality of magnets, a slug applicator assembly housing a plurality of slugs and a folding mechanism to align the sheet in a final glued form. The magnet applicator assembly applies magnets to the sheet at a pre-determined time, and the slug applicator assembly applies slugs to the sheet at a pre-determined time. The magnet and the slug are attached to the sheet by the glue applied by the gluing device. The magnet aligns with the slug forming a reclosable connection. |
| US08529412B2 |
Omni-directional exercise device
This disclosure describes, generally, an omni-directional exercise device. The device includes a platform base and resistance bands coupled to the platform base. The device further includes one or more enclosures coupled to the plurality of resistance bands. The one or more enclosures are positioned on top of the platform base at a home position. The one or more enclosures are configured to slide on top of the platform base in a 360-degree range of motion such that the plurality of resistance bands provide resistance at any point on the platform base and are configured to return to the home position. |
| US08529411B2 |
Foot and ankle exercise device
The present invention relates to a rocker boot for stretching or strengthening muscles. The rocker boot may include a base having a arcuate surface and a footrest attached to the base. The footrest may be adjustable to provide one or more different configurations. |
| US08529408B2 |
Weight-lifting exercise machine
A weight-lifting exercise machine enables an athlete to lift a mass from an initial resting position. After the athlete releases the mass, the machine cushions the fall of the mass, such that the mass returns to its resting position without assistance from the athlete. The movements of the athlete and the mass can be tracked, preferably by wireless accelerometers attached respectively to the athlete and the mass, and data on such movements can be stored and analyzed. The machine provides a monitor to enable the athlete to track the progress of the exercise, and to determine whether the exercise is being performed correctly. |
| US08529406B2 |
Multiple-ratio automatic transmission control method and system for ratio upshifts
A speed ratio shaft control for multiple ratio vehicle transmission has controlled release of an off-going transmission clutch and controlled engagement of an on-coming transmission clutch during a speed ratio upshift, at least one clutch being a friction torque establishing clutch. A controller, using shift-timing software strategy, actively manages in real time a clutch torque level for each clutch so that transient torque disturbances in a transmission torque output shaft are mitigated. |
| US08529405B2 |
Ratio shift control system and method for a multiple-ratio automatic transmission
A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a powertrain source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a powertrain source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. |
| US08529402B2 |
Pump arrangement
A pump arrangement for fluid in an automotive transmission system includes, but is not limited to a first, low-pressure pump stage and a second, high-pressure pump stage, the first pump stage supplying low-pressure fluid to a lubrication/cooling system and to the inlet of second pump stage, which supplies high pressure fluid to a hydraulic control system. Fluid from both systems is returned via a reservoir and filter to the first pump stage. |
| US08529400B2 |
Method for coupling an internal combustion engine of a parallel-hybrid drive train
A method of coupling a combustion engine of a parallel-hybrid drive train via a clutch positioned between the engine and an electric machine with the clutch device initially disengaged, the engine rotational speed approximately at an engine idling rotational speed, and the machine rotational speed larger than the engine idling rotation speed. When a request is made for a drive torque value which is larger than a torque threshold, the engine rotational speed is brought to a rotational speed value above the machine rotational speed and the clutch is slipping engaged once the rotational speed value is reached, while the engine, when the drive train decelerates and a request is made to couple the engine, is brought into deceleration cancellation and the engine rotational speed is brought up to the machine rotational speed while engaging the clutch and dependent on a transfer ability of the clutch. |
| US08529399B2 |
Method for controlling a hybrid drive
A method for controlling a hybrid drive of a vehicle, which includes at least one internal combustion engine and at least one electric machine, having a first clutch situated between the electric machine and the drive train of the vehicle and a second clutch situated between the electric machine and the internal combustion engine. Performance parameters of the hybrid drive are controlled as a function of the driver's intent. |
| US08529398B2 |
Force limiting device for a motor vehicle
A load limiting mechanism for a motor vehicle, comprising at least two parts (1, 2, 10, 12, 16, 20, 21, 46, 22, 40) controlled relative to one another with a frequency controlled oscillating movement. The parts (1, 2, 10, 12, 16, 20, 21, 46, 22, 40) moving relative to one another comprise interlocking gears (3, 4, 13, 15, 24, 25, 26, 27) and the frequency controlled oscillating movement results thereby that at least one of the parts (1, 10, 21, 22) compared to the other part (2, 12, 16, 20, 40, 46) executes a wavelike oscillating feed motion, in which the gears (3, 4, 13, 15, 24, 25, 26, 27) alternately become engaged and disengaged thereby dissipating energy. |
| US08529397B2 |
Gear system for a wind turbine
A gear system (1) comprising a main bearing (3), a main gear (5) and two or more pinion shafts (6). The main bearing (3) directly supports a torque inputting means (2) and defines a rotational axis (4). The pinion shafts (6) are each arranged to mesh with the main gear (5) at an exterior surface (7) of the main gear (5) in such a manner that torque transmitted from the main gear (5) is split into a number of parallel torque paths corresponding to the number of pinion shafts (6). At least the main gear (5), and at least part of its meshes to the pinion shafts (6) are arranged within a perimeter defined by the main bearing (3). The gear system (1) is compact due to the arrangement of the main gear (5) and meshes to the pinion shafts (6). At the same time it is easy and cost effective to manufacture because the pinion shafts (6) mesh to the main gear (5) via the external surface (7). |
| US08529394B2 |
Multi-ratio transmission
A multi step transmission comprising four planetary gear sets, shafts, and shift elements, the sun gear of gearset (P1) couples shaft (4) which couples housing (G) via brake (04), the carrier of gearset (P1) couples shaft (3) which couples housing (G) via brake (03), and drive shaft (1) via clutch (13), and shaft (6) via clutch (36). Shaft (6) couples the ring gear of gearset (P2) and is operatively connected to the sun gear of gearset (P4). Shaft (1) couples the sun gear of gearset (P2) and the carrier of gearset (P3). Shaft (5) couples the ring gear of gearset (P1), the carrier of gearset (P2), and the sun gear of gearset (P3). The ring gear of gearset (P4) couples housing (G). Output shaft (2) detachably couples shaft (7), which couples the ring gear of gearset (P3), via clutch (27), and operatively couples the carrier of gearset (P4). |
| US08529393B2 |
Lockable or releasable wheel system with bidirectional input and one-way output
The lockable or releasable gear train with bidirectional input and one-way output relates to a transmission structure, wherein the rotary direction of the input shaft of the gear train with bidirectional input and one-way output is changed to make the direction of the output of the output shaft to be constant, which is characterized by releasing the lockable or releasable mechanism, the output shaft is moved reversely when reversely driven. |
| US08529392B1 |
Transmission with double-sun, annular gear, and outer gear coplanar gear set
A transmission includes a coplanar gear set with a first sun gear member rotatable about a first axis of rotation, a second sun gear member rotatable about the first axis of rotation, a carrier member, and an outer gear radially outward of and concentric with the first sun gear member. A first annular gear meshes with the first sun gear member, and the outer gear meshes with the first annular gear and with the second sun gear member. The first annular gear is rotatable about a second axis of rotation and the outer gear is rotatable about a third axis or rotation. |
| US08529391B2 |
Gear train for a wind turbine
A gear train includes at least one planetary gear stage and one gear train stage. One end of a sun shaft of the planetary gear stage is concentrically surrounded by a hollow shaft of the second gear train stage. The sun shaft of the planetary gear stage is co-rotationally coupled to the hollow shaft by a denture clutch. A lubricant feed ring is arranged at a front face of the hollow shaft facing toward the sun gear of the planetary gear stage and has a cone-shaped passage opening, which has an internal diameter which decreases in the direction of the sun gear of the planetary gear stage, and concentrically surrounds the sun shaft of the planetary gear stage. At least one lubricant feed nozzle is aligned with a circumferential gap between the lubricant feed ring and the sun shaft of the planetary gear stage. |
| US08529387B2 |
Pulley with asymmetric torque-sensitive clutching
A pulley assembly for use in an automobile accessory drive system includes a shaft engaging hub, a pulley member, a nut treaded onto the shaft engaging hub, and a brake member interposed between the pulley member and the nut. The shaft engaging hub is engaged with an accessory input shaft for rotation therewith. Frictional engagement between the pulley member, the brake member, and the nut transfers torque from the pulley member to the input shaft. The pulley member includes an inner coupling surface and a peripheral belt-engaging surface. The nut includes an outer coupling surface. The brake member includes a first coupling surface in frictional engagement the outer coupling surface of the nut and a second coupling surface in frictional engagement with the inner coupling surface of the pulley member. When torque is applied to the nut in a first direction the out coupling surface of the nut couples to the inner coupling surface of the brake member such that the hub and the nut rotate with the pulley member. The outer coupling surface of the nut and the inner coupling surface of the brake member decouple when torque applied to the nut is in a second direction opposite the first direction such that the hub rotates relative to the pulley member. |
| US08529381B2 |
Divot tools and methods of making divot tools
Embodiments of divot tools having ball markers and methods of making divot tools are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08529375B2 |
Golf ball having increased moment of inertia
Generally disclosed is a golf ball having a core and a cover layer. The cover layer includes a coating material thereon that increases the golf ball's moment of inertia. The coating material is coated on the cover layer in a pattern corresponding to one of the dimple pattern and the pattern of land areas separating the dimples. The golf ball's moment of inertia is increased while utilizing only a small amount of the coating material as a result of the pattern of coating material, which locates the coating material at an outermost radial distance from the golf ball's center of rotation (i.e., the golf ball's center of gravity). The increased moment of inertia causes the golf ball to have a lower rate of spin when hit by a golf club, thereby displaying different play characteristics. |
| US08529369B2 |
Golf club head
An exemplary golf club head having an increased amount of discretionary mass may be realized by utilizing improved drop angles, an improved average crown height, and/or articulation points. The discretionary mass may be placed low and deep in the club head to improve the location of the center of gravity as well as the inertial properties. A preferred break length may also be utilized to further improve the depth of the center of gravity. In one example, the center of gravity may be positioned to substantially align the sweet spot with the face center of the club head. |
| US08529364B1 |
Golf training aid
The present invention is an apparatus and method enabling a controlled approach to making accurate puts in golfing. The apparatus uses laser aiming, measured stroking distances, and a surface analysis aid to benchmark a perfect put. The method enhances control by eliminating the back half of the swing while providing data points for reassessment of performance during practice training. |
| US08529363B1 |
Self-attaching golf putter aid
The self-attaching golf putter aid includes an upper grip joined at a pivot point with a bottom bracket such that the upper grip can rotate about a vertical axis with the bottom bracket. The bottom bracket is designed to attach onto the handle of a putter via an adjustable strap. The aid is used by grabbing the upper grip with a first hand while grabbing the bottom bracket and handle of the putter with a second hand, and wherein the end user holds the upper grip stationary while swinging the putter to form a true and smooth pendulum golf putting stroke that is ideal when putting. |
| US08529355B2 |
Storage medium storing information processing program, information processing apparatus and information processing method
A game apparatus includes a CPU, and the CPU controls a moving object within a virtual space on the basis of acceleration data and angular velocity data which are transmitted from a controller. For example, before the angular velocity data is above a predetermined magnitude, a position and an orientation of the moving object is controlled on the basis of the angular velocity data. When the angular velocity data is above the predetermined magnitude, an initial velocity of the moving object is decided on the basis of the acceleration data, and a moving direction (orientation) of the moving object is decided on the basis of the angular velocity data. Thereafter, the moving object moves within the virtual space according to a general physical behavior. |
| US08529349B2 |
Networked gaming system communication protocols and methods
A system, method and apparatus for a gaming system is provided. The gaming system includes a rewards server and a separate gaming or slot accounting server. The system may further include a separate player tracking server. The system further includes one or more game machines. The game machines may include a base game, rewards tracking module, and a game management module. Further details will be apparent from the description, drawings and claims. |
| US08529346B1 |
Allocating and managing software assets
Among other disclosed subject matter, a computer program product is tangibly embodied in a computer-readable storage medium and includes instructions that when executed by a processor perform a method for allocating assets. The method includes assigning each of multiple operation sectors defined by a software program to respective ones of multiple load groups, each load group grouping at least one operation sector for loading assets of the operation sector into memory. The method includes assigning all assets from the multiple operation sectors into respective ones of multiple clusters based on associations between the respective assets and the multiple operation sectors. The method includes generating and storing a memory layout that assigns one of multiple memory locations to each of the multiple clusters for at least one of the multiple load groups. |
| US08529345B2 |
Gaming system including a gaming table with mobile user input devices
One aspect is directed to a system whereby a live gaming table system is provided with one or more handheld user input devices which, for example, may allow multiple different players to simultaneously or concurrently provide wager input data and/or other data to the gaming table system. In at least one embodiment, the handheld user input devices may form part of a multi-player touch input interface system which is operable to identify or determine where, who, and what transactions are taking place at a multi-player gaming table and/or multi-player gaming system. |
| US08529344B2 |
Game control program, game device and game control method, management server, and data managing method
A designer terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention is a game device operated by a designer. The designer terminal includes a stage setting unit that generates design data on a virtual space, in which players play games, according to instructions from the designer, a stage distributing unit that distributes the generated design data to an external unit, a game action data acquiring unit that acquires game data recording game actions taken in the virtual space at player terminals that have acquired the design data, and a game action reproducing unit that displays, on the screen of the designer, the game actions taken in the virtual space at the player terminals, based on the acquired game data. |
| US08529342B2 |
Gaming system with dedicated player gaming devices
In a gaming system players are assigned individual gaming devices comprising electronic game boards. Players access their assigned gaming device via a gateway from a remote presentation device such as a player's computer. The gateway confirms the identity of each player so that a player may only access their assigned and dedicated gaming device. When linked, an assigned gaming device generates wagering game data for presentation upon the player's remote presentation device. A casino may provide a number of traditional gaming machines and a plurality of dedicated or assigned gaming devices which permit remote player play. |
| US08529336B2 |
Apparatus, systems, and methods for implementing enhanced gaming and prizing parameters in an electronic environment
Forms of interaction with an electronic system, such as for games of chance, games of skill, and combinations thereof are described herein. A system is provided for effecting defined game play and prizing structure parameters in an electronic entertainment environment. The system may include an input for receiving the parameters, a memory coupled to the input for storing the parameters, a processing system coupled to the storage for generating game play to effect the defined parameters, storage for recording information regarding particular game play events and an interface for at least presenting game play events to users of the electronic entertainment system. In one mode of operation, one or more mandated parameters are externally imposed, and variable parameters are selected such that the mandated parameters are met globally, and such that the user experience is optimized. |
| US08529324B2 |
Powered air cleaning system and method of making same
A powered air cleaning system (31) and a method of making the system are disclosed. The system comprises a flow path (22) extending through the system from an air inlet (4) to a clean air outlet (5). A motor-driven fan (24) located along the flow path draws particulate debris laden air into the inlet and rotates it about an axis (A-A) to form a rotating flow that stratifies the debris laden air with the heaviest particles in the outermost orbits of the rotating flow. An ejector port (8) is provided for ejecting particulate debris laden air from the stratified rotating flow in the system to the environment. An air filter (9) located within the rotating flow and across the flow path upstream of the outlet filters air from the innermost orbits of the stratified rotating flow. The system is formed of a plurality of components (2, 3) separately mountable in remote locations (32, 33) in a device to be supplied with clean air. The components are interconnected with an intermediate pipe assembly (34). |
| US08529318B2 |
Sharpener
A sharpening device operable to maintain a stable angle of a cutting edge during sharpening is disclosed. A sharpening member reciprocates parallel to a first direction. The sharpening member comprises a sharpening surface comprising at least one groove along the first direction. Reciprocation can reduce a presence of a sharpening residue on the sharpening surface while maintaining a stable sharpening angle of a cutting edge. |
| US08529311B2 |
Magnetic and electronic toy construction systems and elements
Magnetic and electronic toy construction systems and elements are provided that include an assembly of at least two panels that have at least three magnets located around the perimeter of the panel such that the dipole axes of magnets in a single panel are coplanar and intersect to define a polygon. When attaching two adjacent panels, at least two ferromagnetic spheres are used such that the dipole axes of one magnet from each of the adjacent panels are collinear, and such that the dipole axes are collinear with the centers of the ferromagnetic spheres. In this manner, several panels configured in this way may be nested together to form great varieties of constructions. |
| US08529309B2 |
Backlit displays including organic light-emissive material
A display device comprising: a light switching unit comprising an array of pixels each operable to vary the transmission of light therethrough; and a backlight comprising a first series of regions of organic light-emissive material having a first emission color and a second series of regions of organic light-emissive material having a second emission color, each region of organic material being located so as to lie behind a plurality of pixels of the array in the viewing direction for backlighting those pixels; and at least one of the regions of organic light-emissive material being formed by a process of ink-jet deposition. |
| US08529306B2 |
Device for pedal powering a watercraft
The present invention is a device affording foot-powered propulsion of a watercraft by an occupant. The device consists of two levers, each with a shaft, serving as a fulcrum. When mounted on a host craft the force arms extend above the deck or floor of the vessel and each has a pedal attached to their end. The resistance arms extend beneath the hull of the craft and each has a folding paddle attached. The levers are linked so that pushing one pedal away from the operator forces the other pedal towards the operator. A back-and-forth pedaling motion moves the folding paddle blades, propelling the vessel. Direction of propulsion can be reversed by rotating the paddles 180 degrees. The invention is intended to be mounted to a watercraft, such as, a kayak that has been specifically designed for or altered to accept the device. |
| US08529305B2 |
Electric outboard drive
An electric outboard drive adapted to be mounted on a transom of a boat through a mounting bracket includes a driving device and a propelling device. Through engagement of a first transmission shaft with a second transmission shaft, the power of an electric motor of the driving device is transmitted to a propeller of the propelling device. As a result, when the electric motor drives the first transmission shaft to rotate, the propeller is rotated by the transmission of the second transmission shaft to propel the boat. |
| US08529302B2 |
Electrical connector for flat conductor
A connector comprising a connector main body for insertion of an object to be connected; a plurality of contacts disposed at intervals from one another within the connector main body in the width direction; and a freely rotatable press member for pressing respective contacts against the inserted object to be connected. When the press member is rotated in one direction, respective contacts are pressed toward the object to be connected by the press member and, when the press member is rotated in the other direction, the press of the respective contacts by the press member is cancelled. A rotation fulcrum of the press member is provided between one and the other ends so that when one end of the press member is pressed, the press member rotates in one direction and, when the other end of the press member is pressed, the press member rotates in the other direction. |
| US08529301B2 |
Shielded connector assembly
A connector assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure is advantageously configured to allow a sensor connector to straightforwardly and efficiently join with and detach from a patient cable connector. Further, embodiments of the connector assembly advantageously reduce un-shielded area in an electrical connection between a patient cable and a sensor connector. In addition, embodiments of the connector assembly advantageously increase the shielding of detector signals coming from the patient sensor to the monitor. |
| US08529295B2 |
Surface mount multi-connector and electronic apparatus having the same
A surface mount multi-connector having movable contact sections with high contact reliability and providing connection portions with high coplanarity. The surface mount multi-connector includes a first body in which a plurality of first contacts having movable contact sections and end sections that extend oppositely to each other are held by insert molding, a second body in which a plurality of second contacts having movable contact sections and end sections that extend oppositely to each other are held by insert molding, and a third body that incorporates the first body with which the second body has been coupled so that the movable contact sections of the second contacts and the movable contacts section of the first contacts face in the same direction. Tips ahead of the movable contact sections of the first and second contacts elastically mate with catching parts formed on the inner wall of the third body, and connection portions of the end sections of the first contacts and connection portions of the end sections of the second contacts lie in a same plane. |
| US08529290B2 |
Connector apparatus having a detachable module
A connector apparatus having a detachable module includes a connector base and a detachable module. The connector base has an insulating body and a plurality of press-contacting terminals. A plurality of grooves are inwardly formed on a rear surface of the insulating body. The press-contacting terminals are correspondingly located in the grooves. A press-contacting portion of each of the press-contacting terminals extends along the upper surface of the insulating body and protrudes out from the upper surface. The detachable module is composed of a circuit board, an integrated circuit electrically connecting to the circuit board and a plurality of connecting pins arranged on the circuit board. When the detachable module is connected to the connector base, the connecting pins are electrically connected to the press-contacting portions, and the mainboard of a computer connected to the connector base can execute the function of the integrated circuit in the detachable module. |
| US08529289B2 |
Reconfigurable plug strip
A power strip for conducting electrical power between an electrical power outlet having at least a live receptacle and a neutral receptacle, and at least two electrical device power plugs, each plug having at least a live prong and a neutral prong. The power strip includes a first housing segment having a first receptacle configured to receive at least an electrically conductive portion of a first device plug and a second housing segment having a second receptacle configured to receive at least an electrically conductive portion of a second device plug. The second housing is coupled to the first housing for pivotal movement relative to said first housing. |
| US08529288B2 |
Cover for cable connectors
A cover and a system of covers/boots for placement in sealed relation over a connector or pair of connectors that is or are adapted to terminate a cable or splice together a pair of cables, preferably cables that carry signals received by a receiving apparatus on a cell tower. The covers include a cable end that sealingly receives a cable therein, an elongated body that provides secure cover to a cable connector, and an end that abuts a bulkhead or sealingly engages with a second cover when used in a splicing application. |
| US08529286B2 |
Detachment and displacement protection structure for insertion of flexible circuit flat cable
Disclosed is a detachment and displacement protection structure for insertion of flexible circuit flat cable. An inserter positioning section is formed on a flexible circuit flat cable and coupled with an inserter, which includes a metal member and a plastic member. In assembling, the plastic member is first positioned on a first surface of the inserter positioning section of the flexible circuit flat cable, and then the metal member is fit over the plastic member. A detachment and displacement protection structure is provided on the inserter positioning section to constrain the inserter from displacing and detaching in a flat cable extension direction due to being acted upon by an external force when the inserter is positioned on the inserter positioning section. |
| US08529285B1 |
Cable retention clip for rugged applications
A system and method for retaining a commercial off the shelf connector and cable into a connector on a pc is shown and described as having a wire bail or retaining clip, which is either screwed to or forced into a friction fit behind a rear panel of the PC at the COTS connectors. The bail or retention clip extends beyond the end of the connector and cradles the cord, this helps to distribute the weight of the cord/cable. Also, the clip is sized and configured to make inadvertent disconnection of the connector less likely. |
| US08529281B2 |
Connector
The invention provides a connector including first and second beams, first and second conductive plates, and an urging device. The first and second beams extend substantially in parallel with each other and include first and second accommodating recesses, respectively. The first and second recesses are opposed to each other and open toward distal end sides of the first and second beams. The first and second conductive plates are to be accommodated in the first and second accommodating recesses, respectively, and removably insertable from the distal end sides into the first and second accommodating recesses, respectively. The urging device urges the first and second conductive plates in directions close to each other. |
| US08529280B2 |
Electrical engagement apparatus, system and method
A device for securing a first electrical connector to a second electrical connector, comprising a bracket body; and at least one engaging portion extending from the bracket body to the second electrical connector and coupling to a portion of the second electrical connector. Also provided is a method of securing one electrical connector to another electrical connector and an interconnect system comprising a first connector, a second connector, a third connector, and an engaging device. |
| US08529278B2 |
Waterproof electrical connector and waterproof electrical connector assembly method
The invention is directed to a waterproof electrical connector that can prevent detachment of connector parts and enhance waterproofness. The connector includes a main housing, a cover housing, a contact, and a body. The main housing includes a mating protrusion, a fitting section, and a head portion. The contact includes a contacting portion that is received in the fitting section and an electric wire connection portion that connects to one end of an electric wire. The body covers at least a boundary portion between the main housing and the cover housing. The main housing further includes an outer circumferential wall positioned on an outer circumferential side of the boundary portion between the main housing and the cover housing. |
| US08529276B2 |
Connector to flex assembly
An electrical assembly combination comprises (a) a rigid assembly having a plurality of attachment element electrical contacts, (b) a flexible assembly having a plurality of flexible assembly electrical contacts, and (c) an intermediary device disposed between the rigid assembly and the flexible assembly. The intermediary device has connector electrical contacts including a first set exposed on a first base side and a second set exposed on a second base side. Each intermediary device electrical contact connects with an attachment element electrical contact or a flexible assembly electrical contact. Each attachment element electrical contacts is removably secured and electrically connected to the first set of intermediary device electrical contacts, and each of the flexible assembly electrical contacts is removably secured and electrically connected to the second set of intermediary device electrical contacts. |
| US08529275B2 |
Assembled component having electrical connector and electrical connector cap, electrical connector cap, and method of mounting electrical connector
An assembled component includes a plurality of electrical connectors to be disposed on a circuit board in a specific positional arrangement; and an electrical connector cap attached to the electrical connectors for joining the electrical connectors before the electrical connectors are disposed onto the circuit board. The electrical connector cap includes a main body extending in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction on a plane parallel to the circuit board and a first fitting section including a first reference surface. Each of the electrical connector includes a second fitting section for engaging the first fitting section. The second fitting section includes a second reference surface for contacting with the first reference surface, so that the electrical connectors are arranged in the specific positional arrangement. |
| US08529273B2 |
Female terminal and charging connector
A female terminal (20) has a main portion (21). A contact-member accommodating portion (22) projects forward from the main portion (21) for accommodating a contact member (23) inside. The contact member (23) has circumferentially arranged contact pieces (23A) extending in a connecting direction with a male terminal (60). Intermediate parts of the contact pieces (23A) in an extending direction are curved radially inwardly, and the curved parts of the contact pieces (23) resiliently contact and hold the male terminal (60). The contact-member accommodating portion (22) has a front wall (22A) and a side wall (22B) between the front wall (22A) and the main portion (21). An entrance hole (22C) for the male terminal (60) is formed in the front wall (22A), and a first discharge hole (25A) for allowing the inside and outside of the contact-member accommodating portion (22) to communicate is formed in the side wall (22B). |
| US08529272B2 |
Rotary connector device
A steering roll connector includes a rotator, a sleeve, and a fixed casing. The rotator includes a claw and an inner cylindrical part, and is mounted to a steering shaft such that the rotator is rotated integrally with the steering shaft inserted in the inner cylindrical part. The sleeve includes a projection connectable with the claw, and is mounted to the rotator such that the sleeve is rotated integrally with the rotator. The fixed casing includes an outer cylindrical part, and is mounted such that the fixed casing does not follow rotation of the steering shaft inserted in the outer cylindrical part and such that the fixed casing is in contact with the sleeve. A combination of materials of the claw and the projection is such that occurrence of a squeak caused when the claw and the projection are rubbed against each other is suppressed. |
| US08529270B2 |
Interactive computer system for instructor-student teaching and assessment of preschool children
A computer system contains and displays a cartoon-like story with a plurality of displayed components (such as cartoon characters, play items, etc.) recognizable by a preschool student on a first portion of the display screen along with an accompanying voice message on the speaker. Written instructions for teachers to follow in a personal one-to-one interaction with one or more students are displayed on a second portion of the display screen. For some activities, the student may actually respond using the computer such as by touching a touch screen or using a mouse to select one of the displayed components in response to a request to select a displayed component having a predetermined aspect. For other activities the teacher enters the response of the student as observed by the teacher. When one or more correct responses are entered by the student or teacher, achievement of a goal can automatically be entered into the educational management system. |
| US08529268B2 |
Ski or snowboard teaching apparatus
In one example, an apparatus for teaching a student how to snow ski includes a removably attachable instructor component, a removably attachable student component, and means for temporarily securing the instructor component and student component together. The instructor component has a first end defining a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of an instructor's ski pole and a second end disposed opposite the first end. The student component has a first end configured to attach to a portion of a student's ski equipment and a second end disposed opposite the first end. |
| US08529266B1 |
Mathematical teaching apparatus and methods
A mathematical teaching apparatus includes a base ten platform formed with a planar array of ten receiving elements being substantially equal in size and arranged in a pattern, and ten counting tiles being substantially equal in size and shape. Each of the ten receiving elements is adapted to removably receive one of the ten counting tiles to arrange the ten counting tiles in the pattern of the ten receiving elements, and a base ten cover is adapted to be removably received upon the ten counting tiles received by the respective ten first receiving elements so as to cover the ten counting tiles. |
| US08529265B2 |
Method for teaching written language
A system and method for teaching combining letters, images and sounds. A keyboard having letters on keys has sounds associated with each key. Keys for words used in a lesson may be highlighted to provide clues how to spell a word. Sounds associated with a selected word may be played upon the successful completion of spelling of the word on the keyboard. |
| US08529256B2 |
Air water vacuum syringe and method of use
An air water vacuum dental instrument includes a handle; a head; an air control carried by at least one of the handle and the head; a water control carried by at least one of the handle and the head; a vacuum control carried by at least one of the handle and the head; and an air water vacuum tip coupled to the head and configured to provide at least air, water, and vacuum in a mouth of a dental patient at the air water vacuum tip. |
| US08529252B2 |
Reverse headgear with neck strap
The reverse headgear with neck strap has: a forehead-cap adapted to engage a patient's forehead; a chin-cap adapted to engage the patient's chin; and a frame interconnecting the forehead-cap and the chin-cap. The frame has side portions extending between the forehead-cap and the chin-cap defining rearward extending loops. A neck strap is releasably connected to the loops on opposite sides of the frame by hooks, the neck strap passing behind the patient's neck in order to apply a traction force to the chin cap to draw the mandible posteriorly. An M-shaped hook is attached to the chin-cap and extends in front of a mouth of the patient, the hook being configured to receive a tension applying elastic element attachable to the patient's upper teeth in order to apply anterior traction to the maxilla, thereby correcting a class III malocclusion by tensioning the maxilla forward and the mandible rearward. |
| US08529249B2 |
Flame holder system
A flame holder system includes a modified torch body and a ceramic flame holder. Catch pin(s) are coupled to and extend radially out from the torch body. The ceramic flame holder has groove(s) formed in its inner wall that correspond in number and positioning to the catch pin(s). Each groove starts at one end of the flame holder and can be shaped to define at least two 90°turns. Each groove is sized to receive one catch pin therein when the flame holder is fitted over the end of the torch body. The flame holder is then manipulated until the catch pin(s) butt up against the end of the groove(s). |
| US08529245B1 |
Undercut mold insert
An undercut mold insert apparatus is disclosed for forming an undercut on an inner surface of a molded part. The apparatus provides, in an exemplary embodiment, a disk substantially shaped to approximate the dimensions of the object that is to be subsequently positioned within the undercut, the disk itself comprising an inner portion and a substantially circumferentially integral perimeter portion. The perimeter portion is configured for forming the undercut. The inner portion is configured for at least partially radially collapsing when appropriate force is applied thereto. As such, during the molding process, in which the apparatus is appropriately positioned within and subsequently forms the undercut of the molded part, upon cooling of the molded part, the inner portion is able to at least partially radially collapse, allowing substantially the entire perimeter portion to be disengaged from within the undercut before the apparatus is removed therefrom. |
| US08529244B2 |
Injection mold
An injection mold for molding a product having at least one bar formed at one side thereof. The injection mold includes a stationary mold including an inclined pillar and a movable mold including a movable core and a sliding block mounted on a top thereof. The inclined pillar inserted in the sliding block to drive the sliding block to slide towards or away from the movable core. A shaping cavity for molding the product is formed among the movable core, the sliding block and the stationary mold. The end surface of the sliding block further defines at least one shaping groove connected with the shaping cavity for molding the bar. The movable mold further includes an ejector pin and a maintaining pillar. The maintaining pillar resists against a bottom of the sliding block to avoid the ejector pin moving upward before the bar completely parted from the shaping groove. |
| US08529238B2 |
Container having a rim or other feature encapsulated by or formed from injection-molded material
A tool for creating a container or tray having various features. The tool comprises a cavity operable to receive a blank. The cavity has at least one sidewall for forming at least one sidewall of the container. A core is operatively connected to the cavity. The core is operable to enter the cavity to least partially form the blank into the container. An injection cavity is for receiving liquid resin and directing liquid resin around at least a portion of the perimeter of the blank. The injection cavity comprises an advanced-flow section and a delayed-flow section. The advanced-flow section has a greater cross-sectional area than the delayed-flow section, and the advanced-flow section is located adjacent the at least one sidewall of the cavity. |
| US08529233B2 |
Displacement machine with improved support
A displacement machine of spiral-type construction for a compressible medium includes a displacement body having a carrier disc and helical blades extending out from both sides of the carrier disc. The carrier disc has a hub which is supported by a hub bearing on an eccentric disc which is part of a driven drive shaft. The drive shaft is supported inside a housing by a first bearing and a second bearing. These bearings are arranged in receptacles which fully project into the feed chambers of the housing so that the bearings are positioned in close proximity to the eccentric disc. |
| US08529232B2 |
Compressor having capacity modulation system
A compressor includes first and second scroll members, a structure supporting the second scroll member, and a first piston. The first scroll member includes a first end plate and a first spiral wrap. The second scroll member includes a second end plate and a second spiral wrap engaged with the first spiral wrap to form compression pockets. The second end plate includes a first aperture in communication with a first compression pocket. The structure includes a first recess and first and second passages. The first piston is axially displaceable between first and second positions within the first recess. The first piston isolates the first passage from communication with the second passage when in the first and second positions, prevents communication between the first aperture and the first passage when in the first position, and provides communication between the first aperture and the first passage when in the second position. |
| US08529229B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus
A tube pump reduced of the burden against pump driving caused by dragging of a tube by a pressurizing roller. Specifically, guide members are disposed in the respective introduction portions at between the guides. Namely, the guide members are arranged nearby the extensions of the circumference of the arcuate guides and radially with respect to the center of the circumference. Due to this, the pump tube, the roller is to drag, is sustained by the guide member, to prevent the tube from increasing its deformation due to dragging. Thus, the tube can be prevented from being dragged in a manner forming a resistance to the roller. As a result, the pump motor, etc. can be prevented from being burdened with an increasing load. |
| US08529227B2 |
Submersible pump capable of providing low voltage power supply
A submersible pump capable of providing low voltage power supply comprises a pump body and a filter cover connected to the pump body; a stator containing cavity and a rotor containing cavity is provided in the pump body; the outside of the rotor containing cavity is provided with an impeller room, and the upside of the impeller room is provided with a water outlet; a silicon steel sheet group of a stator and a stator coil are encapsulated in the stator containing cavity in the pump body; a permanent magnet rotor is fixed in the rotor containing cavity in the pump body via a rotor shaft; an impeller at one end of the permanent magnet rotor is located in the impeller room; it also comprises an internal transformer; the internal transformer is provided with a low voltage coil, and the stator coil acting as a high voltage coil, and the two coils are located at the silicon steel sheet group of the stator; the low voltage coil provides AC low voltage power supply to the outside. An internal transformer is constitute by the original silicon steel sheet group of the stator, the original stator coil, and an appended low voltage coil; this design occupies small room, and can provide AC or DC low voltage power supply to the outside as the submersible pump is working, so it is safe to use, and works reliably. |
| US08529225B2 |
Electromagnetic reciprocating fluid device
An electromagnetic reciprocating fluid device in which a movable member is equipped with permanent magnets, resists a torque rotating the movable member about an axis thereof in the reciprocating direction. The electromagnetic reciprocating fluid device has a pair of electromagnets facing each other, and permanent magnets disposed in a space between the opposed electromagnets and held by a movable member. When an alternating current is applied to coils formed in the electromagnets, a magnetic force is generated between the electromagnets and the permanent magnets, whereby a driving force for reciprocation is applied to the movable member. One end of the movable member is connected to a piston of a first piston-cylinder assembly, while the other end is connected to a piston of a second piston-cylinder assembly. The first and second piston-cylinder assemblies are arranged such that an axis line of the first piston-cylinder assembly and an axis line of the second piston-cylinder assembly are non-coaxial and vertically offset from an axis of the movable member. |
| US08529224B2 |
Hermetic compressor having auxiliary communication tube
A hermetic compressor for adjusting the length and cross sectional area of a communication path as a refrigerant flow passage, so as to attenuate a discharge pulsation and consequently, a vibration and noise thereof. The hermetic compressor, which includes a cylinder head having a discharge chamber to discharge a compressed refrigerant and a discharge muffler to receive the refrigerant discharged from the discharge chamber, further includes a communication path to communicate the discharge chamber and the discharge muffler with each other, so as to allow the refrigerant to flow from the discharge chamber into the discharge muffler, and an auxiliary communication tube to increase a length of the communication path for increasing a refrigerant flow distance. The auxiliary communication path reduces the cross sectional area of a refrigerant flow passage while increasing a refrigerant flow distance, thereby attenuating a low-frequency component of the discharge pulsation. |
| US08529221B2 |
Method and system for fuel control in a gas turbine engine
A fuel control system (100) for supplying metered fuel flow to a gas turbine engine is disclosed that includes a variable delivery fuel pump (116) for outputting a fuel flow that includes a burn fuel flow for the gas turbine engine and a surplus fuel flow recirculated back to an inlet (124) of the variable delivery fuel pump (116) and a pump control (148, 158, 122) for controlling the output of the variable delivery fuel pump to maintain the surplus fuel flow at a substantially constant rate. A method of controlling a fuel system (100) is also disclosed. |
| US08529216B2 |
Jet pump retention and seal method with living hinge
A fuel supply unit includes a fuel reservoir (22) for holding fuel. A fuel pump (18) is in the reservoir for pumping fuel from the reservoir. A jet pump assembly (16) is within the reservoir for drawing fuel from a fuel tank into the reservoir. A seal structure (24) has a flange (28) with a living hinge (31). The seal structure is operatively coupled with a housing of the jet pump assembly and disposed between the housing and a portion of the reservoir, with a portion of the flange being pivoted about the living hinge such that the portion of the flange engages an interior surface of the reservoir, providing a seal between the housing of the jet pump assembly and the interior surface of the reservoir. |
| US08529212B2 |
Multi-part modular airfoil section and method of attachment between parts
A fan system includes a motor, a rotatable hub, and a plurality of fan blades. Each of the fan blades includes a substantially rigid spine member, a resilient leading edge member, and a resilient trailing edge member. The leading edge member and trailing edge members are removably coupled with the spine member, such that different leading edge members and different trailing edge members may be chosen to customize the leading and trailing edges of the fan blades. Each fan blade may have more than one type of leading edge member or more than one type of trailing edge member. The leading edge member and trailing edge member may each be coupled with the spine member by urging the leading edge member and trailing edge member in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis defined by the spine member. |
| US08529211B2 |
Wind turbine rotor blade and airfoil section
The present invention includes a set of airfoils, U rails and V rails taken together to describe a blade for use with a horizontal axis wind turbine. The blade's design includes a maximum thickness higher than conventional blades employed for the same use thereby providing better load bearing structural characteristics while at the same time maintaining the requisite aerodynamic qualities for similar blades. The blade has a maximum thickness of about 30% and a maximum lift coefficient of about 1.3. |
| US08529199B2 |
Locking device
The invention relates to a locking device (13) that includes at least one locking system (16), intended to be placed on a first moving element (11), and a retaining member (17), intended to be placed on a second moving element (12), the locking system (16) having a first hook (18) designed to engage with the retaining member so as to lock the locking device (13). The locking system (16) includes at least a second hook (19) set back from the first hook (18) so as to engage with the retaining member in the event of the first hook (18) breaking. |
| US08529196B2 |
Nacelle equipped with at least one excess pressure flap
The present invention relates to a jet engine nacelle (1), of the type comprising an aft section forming an external structure (2) which, together with a concentric internal structure (4) comprising an internal panel (10) intended to surround a down-stream portion of the jet engine, defines an annular flow duct for a so-called secondary stream (3), characterized in that exhaust means (11) are formed in the internal panel such that any unwanted excess pressure is discharged into the annular duct. |
| US08529193B2 |
Gas turbine engine components with improved film cooling
An engine component includes a body; and a plurality of cooling holes formed in the body. At least one of the cooling holes has cross-sectional shape with a first concave portion and a first convex portion. |
| US08529192B2 |
Thrust bearing shaft for thrust and journal air bearing cooling in a compressor
A thrust bearing shaft has an enlarged disk at one axial end to provide a rotating surface in a thrust bearing. A first cylindrical portion extends from the disk. A second cylindrical portion has a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical portion and extends from the first cylindrical portion to an end of the thrust shaft remote from the disk. The thrust shaft has a hollow bore with a ledge extending across the bore at a location within the first cylindrical portion. The ledge is formed with a central hole of a first hole diameter, and twelve air holes spaced circumferentially about the central hole. The twelve holes are formed of a second hole diameter, with a ratio of the first hole diameter to the second hole diameter being between 2.55 and 2.71. In addition, a bearing assembly, a compressor, and a method of assembling a compressor are disclosed. |
| US08529190B2 |
Wind turbine rotor with vertical rotation axis
A wind turbine rotor with a vertical rotation axis connected to a hub having at least two horizontal supports, on the ends of which are tightly fixed blades, each consisting of two wings joined together, with a symmetrical or concavo-convex airfoil with the airfoil's chord lengths and thickness diminishing toward both wing ends. The rotor blade's upper and lower wings are radially deflected from the central zone outwards. The chord length of both wing ends and the chord length in the central zone are approximately inversely proportional to the radii of its location in relation to the axis of the rotor's rotation. The deflecting angle of the lower wing can be greater than the deflecting angle of the upper wing or the length of the lower wing can be greater than the length of the upper wing. These specifications provide uniform wind power consumption along the wing's length, increasing the efficiency of a wind turbine and its service life. |
| US08529188B2 |
Fan nacelle flow control
This disclosure relates to a gas turbine engine including a core engine that drives a fan. A fan nacelle surrounds the fan and provides an inner surface facing the fan. The fan nacelle includes an inlet lip adjoining the inner surface. A ring is arranged at the inner surface and is axially upstream from the fan. The ring includes a deployed position in which the ring is spaced radially inwardly from the inner surface to provide a gap therebetween through which air flows. The ring also includes a stowed position in which the ring is arranged radially inwardly from the deployed position and proximate to the inner surface. The ring is commanded to the deployed position in response to detecting a first condition, which corresponds to a flow separation condition at the fan nacelle inlet. The ring may be stowed during cruise conditions, for example. |
| US08529186B2 |
Collecting and transport device for a stack formed by layers of sheets
The invention relates to a collecting and conveying device for stacks of sheet layers, comprising a feed conveyor (1) for the sheet layers, —a collecting station (3) in which stacks (4) are formed by the layers of sheets, —a removal conveyor (7) for removing the completed stacks (4), and—a transfer unit for moving the stacks from the collecting station to the removal conveyor (7), wherein the collecting station comprises a series of support elements (6) and a series of delimiting and shaking elements (8), wherein the transfer unit comprises a series of sliding elements (10), wherein in each case a sliding element (10) together with a support element (6) and a delimiting and shaking element (8) can be adjusted transversely. |
| US08529184B1 |
Saddle rack lift mechanism
According to the present invention, there is provided a lift mechanism adapted for movement between a substantially horizontal position and a substantially vertical position. At least one saddle rack adapted to carry a horse saddle is combined to the lift mechanism and positively rotates with respect to the lift mechanism in rotational synchronization with the movement of the lift mechanism as the lift mechanism moves between the respective positions, such that the horse saddle is held in a substantially upright position throughout the lift mechanism's movement. |
| US08529183B2 |
Vehicle restraint system
The invention relates to a system for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock, having a base, an arm rotatably mounted to the base for rotating between a lowered position out of contact with the vehicle, a partially elevated position and an upright position for contacting the vehicle to restrain the vehicle in a position suitable for loading or unloading, an arm rotator, a position sensor to detect the rotational position of the arm, a lock and a lock actuator for locking the arm, and a controller in operative communication with the position sensor for determining the position of the vehicle relative to the dock upon contact between the arm and the vehicle for actuating the lock to retain the arm in the upright position to restrain the vehicle. |
| US08529178B2 |
Weldless building structures
A building structure including a first building member and a second building member may be connected by a plurality of fasteners, each fastener having a head, a threaded portion having a through hardness of between HRB 70 and HRC 40, a thread-forming portion of at least HRC 50 hardness enabling the fastener to form threads in at least the second steel building member, and a fluted lead portion of at least HRC 50 hardness with a nominal diameter between 70 and 95% of major diameter, such that the fastener is capable of providing a ratio of strip torque to thread-forming torque of at least 3.0 and a ratio of strip torque to drive torque greater than 6.0 when the second steel building member having a thickness of 0.25 inch and the fluted lead portion having at least one diameter within nominal diameter between 80 and 98% of major diameter. |
| US08529169B2 |
Drilling tool with dust collector
According to the invention, a drilling tool includes: a motor; a transmission drive unit for transmitting a rotation force of the motor to rotate a drill bit; and a dust collector for collecting dust produced from a workpiece drilled by the drill bit, wherein the dust collector is provided with a pierced portion pierced by the drill bit, a dust collection port for sucking the produced dust and its surrounding air, and a blowoff port for blowing air against a vicinity of the piercing drill bit. |
| US08529166B2 |
Cutting tool and cutting insert therefor
An indexable cutting insert has opposing side surfaces and two cutting portions, one of which is operative when the cutting insert is retained in an insert holder. An insert bore opens out to both side surfaces. Two major abutment surfaces located on opposite sides of the insert bore extend from one of the side surfaces, one major abutment surface being closer to the operative cutting portion than the other. Two minor abutment surfaces extend from the same side surface. In a plan view of the side surface, the minor abutment surfaces are transverse to the two major abutment surfaces and also to base abutment surfaces associated with the major and minor abutment surfaces. |
| US08529155B2 |
Method of making pure salt from frac-water/wastewater
The present invention relates to a method for making pure salt comprises recapturing post-drilling flowback water from hydro-fracturing; removing oil from the flowback water; filtering the flowback water using an ultra filter with a pore size of about 0.1 microns or less to remove solid particulates and large organic molecules, such as benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylene, from the water; concentrating the flowback water to produce a brine that contains from about 15 wt % to about 40 wt % of salt relative to the total weight of the flowback brine; performing one or more chemical precipitation process using an effective amount of reagents to precipitate out the desired high quality commercial products, such as, barium sulfate, strontium carbonate, calcium carbonate; and crystallizing the chemically treated and concentrated flowback brine to produce greater than 99.5% pure salt products, such as sodium and calcium chloride. |
| US08529152B1 |
Resistive braking via screed heating
A method and various apparatus are provided for assisting braking in a paving machine having hydraulically driven ground engaging elements driven by a hydraulic motor, and one or more screed electrical heating elements powered by a generator. In the event that the application of the machine deceleration system occurs at a machine speed exceeding a predetermined threshold value, the hydraulic motor of the drive train is configured to drive the hydraulic pump of the hydraulic system. The hydraulic pump is linked to the system generator to generate electrical power to drive the one or more screed electrical heating elements at a current greater than the current previously being provided to the one or more screed electrical heating elements. |
| US08529150B2 |
Toothbrush device
A toothbrush device having a body defining a cavity and an input port disposed on the body in fluid communication with the cavity. The input port permits brushing by-products to pass through the input port and into the cavity while restricting passage of the brushing by-products outward from the cavity. In one form, the toothbrush device includes an elongated handle with a reservoir having at least a portion disposed within the handle. The reservoir is sized to hold a predetermined amount of oral care product, and a mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the reservoir to discharge the oral care product from the reservoir. |
| US08529148B2 |
Painting device
A device for applying paint includes a paint applicator and a guiding means, the guiding means consists of two guiding rollers, the axis of rotation of each roller being fixed in use such that the two axes are disposed at an angle to one another in the range from 50° to 130° . The device is particularly suitable for applying paint in a linear strip of predetermined width along architectural objects such as window sills and sashes, lintels and beams. |
| US08529147B2 |
Applicator and a packaging and applicator device including such an applicator
An applicator may include: an applicator member; a handle that is generally elongate along a longitudinal axis; and a drive mechanism arranged to transform an action, exerted by a user on a control member that is movable relative to the handle, into a turning movement of the applicator member relative to the handle. The control member may be movable in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle. |
| US08529146B2 |
Printer
A printer including a lower frame on which roll paper is loaded, a cutter section mounted above the lower frame for cutting the roll paper on which printing is made, and a cover that allows a front of the lower frame to be opened and closed is provided. A slope portion for causing paper dust or a slip of paper, which falls from the cutter section, to slip down toward the front of the lower frame is provided at a portion of the lower frame below the cutter section. The cover is provided with a pocket portion for receiving the paper dust or the slip of paper slipping down on the slope, and the pocket portion is adjacent to the lowest portion of the slope portion when the cover is closed. |
| US08529144B2 |
Integrated bidirectional urge unit for continuous feed printers
According to aspects of the embodiments, there is provided an apparatus and method to provide a modification of the paper path in an image forming system including a plurality of printing modules, and having a simplex mode that an image is formed on a front surface of a continuous medium, and a duplex mode that an image is also formed on a rear surface of a continuous medium, the image forming system further comprises a bidirectional urge unit added in the middle of the paper path tunnel. Placement of a bidirectional urge unit allows the continuous medium to be transported in two directions. |
| US08529143B2 |
Printing apparatus including plural printheads and a drive mechanism for the platen rollers
A thermal printer includes a first thermal head, a first platen roller, first biasing means, a second thermal head, a second platen roller, and second biasing means. The first thermal head, the first platen roller, the first biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of thermal recording paper. The second thermal head, the second platen roller, and the second biasing means are in contact with a heat-sensitive layer of the thermal recording paper. The second thermal head is arranged on the upstream side of the first thermal head in a paper feed direction. A paper feed speed of the first platen roller to the thermal recording paper is larger than a paper feed speed of the second platen roller. The first platen roller is in contact with the thermal recording paper while being more slippery compared with the second platen roller. |
| US08529141B2 |
Camera
A camera including a drive source, where the drive source is driven so that a charge member enters a moving locus of a mirror drive member when driving a mirror from a mirror down position to a mirror up position. After the charge member has entered the moving locus of the mirror drive member, the mirror drive member is moved from the mirror down position to the mirror up position by an urging force of the mirror drive spring. |
| US08529139B2 |
Optical element and system using the same
A method for transmitting a signal in an optical system includes generating an optical signal along an optical axis for transmission through an optical element, positioning the optical element so that a surface discontinuity is positioned along the optical axis such that the optical signal defines a substantially radially symmetric intensity profile, and launching the optical signal into an input face of an optical fiber such that the intensity profile is substantially null proximate an optical axis associated with the optical fiber. |
| US08529138B2 |
Ferrule for optical transports
The invention pertains to a ferrule for aligning optical transports within an optical connector for coupling to a mating optical connector for purposes of aligning the optical transports in the first connector with optical transports in the mating connector. The ferrule comprises a main body portion defining a longitudinal cavity running between a front face and the rear face of the main ferrule body. The cavity has an opening to a lateral side of the ferrule main body that permits the installation of optical transports into the cavity from a lateral direction (as well as still permitting longitudinal installation, if desired). A cover may be provided for closing off the lateral opening after the optical transports are installed in the cavity. |
| US08529134B2 |
Rolling bearing apparatus
An inner ring contact member is mounted on a rotation shaft to be disposed at a lower side of an inner ring in a vertical direction such that a larger-diameter end of a conical outer peripheral surface abuts against an axial end surface of the inner ring. The conical outer peripheral surface is formed such that the larger-diameter end of the conical outer peripheral surface is disposed radially inwardly of a radially outward edge of the end surface of the inner ring. A cage is disposed between the inner ring and an outer ring in such a manner that a first annular portion of the cage close to the conical outer peripheral surface is disposed so as to overlap with the end surface of the inner ring in the radial direction. |
| US08529133B2 |
Pivot bearing
A pivot bearing includes a spherical bearing body and a single-piece bearing shell. The bearing shell encloses the bearing body at least partially and creates a clearance fit between the bearing body and the bearing shell which clearance fit permits a degree of articulated freedom of the pivot bearing. The single-piece bearing shell includes a radial slot based on a wall thickness of the bearing shell and has at least one contoured bulge. At least one push-in element has a part shape corresponding to the bulge such that the part shape of the push-in element has a defined oversize with respect to the bulge of the slot. The oversize indicates a predetermined clearance fit between the bearing body and the bearing shell that defines a bearing play when the push-in element is mounted in the slot. |
| US08529131B2 |
Ball transfer unit
The present invention provides a ball transfer unit, which includes: a main body, a first rotating body, and a plurality of second rotating bodies arranged between the main body and the first rotating body. The main body has an end forming a receiving chamber and thus forming a receiving chamber sidewall. The second rotating bodies are rotatably arranged on the receiving chamber sidewall. The main body forms an air entrance passage in communication with the receiving chamber. The receiving chamber sidewall extends out to form a bearing section corresponding to the air entrance passage. The bearing section has a side surface in which air outlet ports are formed. The ball transfer unit of the present invention prevents powder dusts from falling therein, ensures smooth operation of the ball transfer unit, and extends the lifespan. |
| US08529130B2 |
Aerostatic bearing arrangement and associated electrostatic preloading unit, particularly for vacuum application
A proposed aerostatic bearing arrangement for moving a device on a base structure, particularly in a vacuum environment, has at least one aerostatic bearing element comprising a bearing body having a load-carrying zone and a suction area. An electrostatic preloading unit having at least one electrode is associated with the at least one aerostatic bearing element, and a voltage can be applied to the electrode in such a way that a force component is generated in direction of the surface normal of the bearing body of the aerostatic bearing element. |
| US08529128B2 |
Radiation imaging apparatus with assisted movement
A judging section judges whether the operating portion provided on a device is being operated. A correcting section performs correction such that the values of signals S that indicate the intensities and directions of external forces applied to the operating portion, which are output from a detecting section while it is judged that the operating portion is not being operated, are included in a dead zone range with respect to control of a movement assisting section that assists manual movement of the device by urging the device. A control section controls the movement assisting section to assist movement in the directions of the external forces indicated by the signals output by the detecting section, and to not perform movement assistance in the case that the signal values are included in the dead zone range. |
| US08529123B2 |
Device and method for calibrating a fiber-optic temperature measuring system
A device for calibrating a fiber-optic temperature measuring system has a broadband light source, a coupling-in device, which can couple light generated by the light source for calibration into an optical fiber of the temperature measuring system, a coupling-out device, which can couple components of the light source-generated light that are backscattered in the optical fiber out of the optical fiber. An evaluation device performs a calibration of the temperature measuring system on the basis of the backscattered components of the light. |
| US08529122B2 |
Swiss lever escapement
This Swiss lever escapement comprises an escape wheel having teeth, and a lever having on the one hand an entry pallet and an exit pallet that engage alternately with the teeth of the escape wheel, and on the other hand a fork that engages periodically with an impulse pin on a roller mounted on the staff of a regulator balance wheel. The relative width Lpl of each of said pallets, expressed as a percentage of the sum of the lengths of arc of one of said teeth and one of said pallets, measured at the circumference of the escape wheel is: Lpl = Ls Ls + d or Le Le + d ≤ 60 % where Ls and Le are the lengths of arc of the exit pallet and entry pallet, respectively, and d is the length of arc of one escape wheel tooth. |
| US08529117B2 |
Mixing apparatus for gases
Apparatus for mixing of a first gas and a second gas, including (i) a linear first tube for supply of the first gas, the first tube having an inlet for the first gas at an upstream end and tapering to form a nozzle at a downstream end, and (ii) a linear second tube for supply of the second gas. The second tube has an inlet for the second gas at an upstream end, a first portion which forms an annulus around the outer surface of the first tube upstream of the nozzle, and a second portion which forms a sheath around the nozzle of the first tube and which forms an area of expanded cross-section compared to the annulus. |
| US08529113B2 |
Thin edge-lit LED backlight panel and light guide
A backlight sufficiently bright to be useful as a backlight for a high definition LCD television panel, or other types of visual display screens is disclosed. An LED wide enough to provide adequate light energy is used. The light energy is directed into a thin substrate panel via a tapered aperture port, and released toward a viewing surface in a uniform manner due to light guide disrupters calculated to optimize the output pattern. |
| US08529110B2 |
Vehicular lamp and vehicular lamp assembly method
A vehicular lamp has a plurality of bulb sockets, each of the plurality of bulb sockets holding a bulb serving as a light source, a lamp body that accommodates the bulb sockets, a front cover that forwardly covers the lamp body, a plurality of bulb socket fixing portions formed in the lamp body, and inserted with the plurality of bulb sockets, a temporary holding member that includes a plurality of temporary holding portions of the bulb sockets, and temporarily holds each of the plurality of bulb sockets to each of the plurality of temporary holding portions, and a bulb socket mounting unit that sandwiches the lamp body and the temporary holding member via an elastic portion formed on each of the bulb sockets. The elastic portion elastically deforms when the temporarily held bulb sockets are inserted into the fixing portions and returning at predetermined fixing positions of the fixing portions. |
| US08529108B2 |
Mirror assembly for vehicle
An interior rearview mirror assembly includes an electrochromic reflective element having a front substrate and a rear substrate with an electrochromic medium sandwiched therebetween. When the front substrate is connected with the rear substrate via a perimeter seal, one of (a) a circumferential outer edge of the rear substrate is generally flush with a circumferential outer edge of the front substrate and no portion of the rear substrate substantially protrudes beyond the front substrate, and (b) at least a portion of a circumferential outer edge of the rear substrate is inward of a circumferential outer edge of the front substrate and no portion of the rear substrate substantially protrudes beyond the front substrate. A perimeter band is disposed at the second surface of the front substrate and around the perimeter border region of the second surface of the front substrate. |
| US08529103B2 |
Illumination system for spot illumination
An illumination system (10) for spot illumination comprising a tubular reflector (2) with a reflective inner surface, the tubular reflector (2) having an entrance aperture (7) and an exit aperture (8) being larger than the entrance aperture (7); a light-source array (1) comprising a plurality of light-sources (13a-c; 30a-d, 31a-d, 32a-d) arranged to emit light into the tubular reflector (2) at the entrance aperture thereof; and a light-diffusing optical member (9) arranged to diffuse light emitted by the illumination system (10). The light-diffusing member (9) is configured to exhibit an increasing diffusing capability with increasing distance from an optic axis (12) of the illumination system. |
| US08529102B2 |
Reflector system for lighting device
A reflector system for a lighting device. The system uses two reflective surfaces to redirect the light before it is emitted. The light source/sources are disposed at the base of a secondary reflector. The first reflective surface is provided by a primary reflector which is arranged proximate to the source/sources. The primary reflector initially redirects, and in some cases diffuses, light from the sources such that the different wavelengths of light are mixed as they are redirected toward the secondary reflector. The secondary reflector functions primarily to shape the light into a desired output beam. The primary and secondary reflectors may be specular or diffuse and may comprise faceted surfaces. The reflector arrangement allows the source to be placed at the base of the secondary reflector where it may be thermally coupled to a housing or another structure to provide an outlet for heat generated by the sources. |
| US08529099B2 |
Heat dissipating lamp device having electric turbine axial fan
The present invention provides an electric turbine axial fan, which is rainproof and installed at the top portion of sealed heat dissipation lamp housing of a high power lamp, so when the electric turbine axial fan is operated, the airflow passes through the top portion of lamp housing of the sealed heat dissipation lamp housing and is concentrated towards the center, then leaded to upwardly enter an axial airflow inlet port formed at the bottom of the electric turbine axial fan, thereby being exhausted to the surroundings through radially-arranged exhaust blades, thus a cooling effect by the external cooling airflow can be provided to the top portion of a high power lamp, which is relatively hotter; when external wind power drives the turbine axial fan, the loading of electric motor can be lowered so as to reduce the electric power outputted by the electric motor. |
| US08529096B2 |
Mechanical interface for glass bulb for use in solid state light source retrofit lamps
A mechanical interface for a glass bulb is provided. The mechanical interface includes a connector and an optical mount. The connector is in contact with the glass bulb. The connector may be a separate component attached to the glass bulb, or may be a continuous part of the glass bulb, such that the connector is itself made of glass. The optical mount is configured to receive the connector. In so receiving, the optical mount operatively couples with the connector so as to secure the glass bulb in a position. The optical mount is also configured to attach to a lamp housing. A solid state light source retrofit lamp may thus be formed of a lamp housing including a solid state light source light engine and its required components, a glass bulb, and a mechanical interface for the glass bulb. |
| US08529095B2 |
Bulb-shaped LED lamp and compact LED lamp
A bulb-shaped LED lamp includes a plurality of high-intensity LED modules 2 where a high-intensity LED is attached on an LED fixing base plate, a heat sink 5 where the high-intensity LED modules 2 are attached on an end face in an axial direction thereof along a circumferential direction, for performing radiation of the high-intensity LED modules 2, a reflector 4 which is provided so as to surround the plurality of high-intensity LED modules 2, for guiding light from the high-intensity LED modules 2 forward, an electronic circuit for driving 6 which drives the high-intensity LED modules 2, a housing 7 which houses the heat sink 5, the electronic circuit for driving 6, and a portion of the reflector 4 therein, and a globe 8 which configures an outer shell together with the housing 7. |
| US08529093B2 |
Safety device for motorized vehicles and methods of use thereof
Embodiments of a safety device for motorized vehicles and methods of use thereof are herein disclosed. In one embodiment, the safety device includes a mountable lighting device in electrical communication with a momentary switch. The lighting device may include a plurality of non-coherent light sources which may flash in a particular sequence. In one embodiment, the lighting device may be activated to flash once to signal to a motorist that a motorcyclist is to pass. The lighting device may be activated to flash twice to signal to a motorist that the motorcyclist is approaching. The lighting device may be activated to flash three times to signal to a motorist that the motorcyclist is passing. |
| US08529090B2 |
Independently detachable light-emitting diode light source module
An independently detachable light-emitting diode light source module adapted to be installed in a luminaire's casing having an opening and an accommodating cavity, is provided. The independently detachable light-emitting diode light source module includes an installing device, a light-emitting diode array, and a secondary optical light guide plate. The light-emitting diode array and the secondary optical light guide plate are disposed in the installing device. The light source module is disposed inside the accommodating cavity and is assembled in the luminaire's casing via the installing device, and the opening exposes the light-emitting diode light source module. |
| US08529089B2 |
Light emitting device and illumination device
A light emitting device includes a base, a sub-mount substrate, and a frame member. The light emitting device further includes a light emitting element and a wavelength converting member. The sub-mount substrate is disposed on the base, and has an upper surface made of a ceramic sintered body. The frame member has a light reflecting portion made of porous ceramics, is disposed on the base, and surrounds the sub-mount substrate. The light emitting element is mounted on the sub-mount substrate. The wavelength converting member covers the light emitting element and the light reflecting portion of the frame member. |
| US08529088B2 |
Universal light emitting diode illumination device and method
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for providing a light emitting diode and driving circuitry integrated into a component module that will retrofit common incandescent lightbulb applications. The disclosed embodiments will perform with high efficiency at a wide operating voltage range with a very small size allowing for the incorporation within the envelope and form of existing lightbulb bases. Therefore, a single universal LED light bulb module can be used to replace the dozens of conventional LED and incandescent lights currently being used. The electronic circuitries used to drive the LEDs are extremely compact and consequently can be incorporated in nearly any standard bulb base. |
| US08529082B1 |
Light-emitting systems for headgear
A light-emitting system is provided which is removably attachable to headgear for personal illumination to enhance visibility of the user to others. The light-emitting system includes a housing that defines a receiving aperture and is configured to surround a portion of the headgear when the light-emitting system is removably attached to the headgear for use. The light-emitting system further includes at least one lens and a plurality of lighting elements coupled to the annular housing which are configured to selectively generate a halo or at least a partial halo of light that radiates outwardly away from the annular housing through the at least one lens to provide enhanced personal illumination. |
| US08529081B2 |
Headlamp device with housing providing thermal management
A lighting device with thermal management may be, for example, a headlamp device that includes a light source and a housing. The housing includes a first portion comprising a first set of external surfaces adapted to operate as a first heat sink to dissipate heat from within the first portion. The light source is disposed within the first portion. The housing also includes a second portion comprising a second set of external surfaces adapted to operate as a second heat sink to dissipate heat from within the second portion. Substantially all external surfaces of the of housing are adapted to be exposed to ambient air when the headlamp device is in use and are included in the first and second sets of external surfaces. Methods and other lighting devices are also provided. |
| US08529079B2 |
Backlight module and heating device thereof
The present invention discloses a backlight module, comprising a back plate, a reflection plate, a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an optical film, a panel and a front frame, wherein the backlight module further comprises a heating device, and the heating device is disposed between the reflection plate and the CCFL. When the backlight module of the present invention is used in a cold area, the heating device is electrically powered in advance to generate heat and to heat the CCFL, and temperature of the CCFL can be raised to a normal initiation temperature which is above ten degrees below zero. Accordingly, the CCFL can avoid usage of over-power voltages in low temperature initiation thereof, and the life of the CCFL is less affected. |
| US08529076B2 |
LED lamp
An exemplary LED lamp includes a socket, an LED module, a signal receiver, and a signal emitter. The LED module includes a micro-computer processor, a power module and an adjuster electrically connecting with the micro-computer processor and the power module. The LED module is mounted on the adjuster. The signal receiver is mounted on the LED module. The signal receiver receives a signal emitted from the signal emitter and transmits the signal to the micro-computer processor. The micro-computer processor dictates the power module to drive the adjuster to rotate. The LED module rotates following the rotation of the adjuster to change an illumination angle of the LED module. |
| US08529069B2 |
Projection apparatus and control method thereof
A projection apparatus which projects an image onto a projection plane based on an input image signal, the apparatus comprises: a division unit configured to divide an image represented by the input image signal into a plurality of regions; a deformation unit configured to deform various types of shapes of the images divided by the division unit; a combination unit configured to combine the images deformed by the deformation unit; and a projection unit configured to project the image combined by the combination unit onto the projection plane. |
| US08529057B2 |
Silicone hydrogel lens with a crosslinked hydrophilic coating
The invention is related to a cost-effective method for making a silicone hydrogel contact lens having a crosslinked hydrophilic coating thereon. A method of the invention involves heating a silicone hydrogel contact lens in an aqueous solution in the presence of a water-soluble, highly branched, thermally-crosslinkable hydrophilic polymeric material having positively-charged azetidinium groups, to and at a temperature from about 40° C. to about 140° C. for a period of time sufficient to covalently attach the thermally-crosslinkable hydrophilic polymeric material onto the surface of the silicone hydrogel contact lens through covalent linkages each formed between one azetidinium group and one of the reactive functional groups on and/or near the surface of the silicone hydrogel contact lens, thereby forming a crosslinked hydrophilic coating on the silicone hydrogel contact lens. Such method can be advantageously implemented directly in a sealed lens package during autoclave. |
| US08529052B2 |
Paper seasoning apparatus, paper seasoning method, inkjet recording apparatus
The present invention provides a paper seasoning apparatus, a paper seasoning method, and an inkjet recording apparatus, that may improve seasoning achieved by blowing air against a paper stack. A paper seasoning apparatus includes, an upwards protruding shaped mounting surface on which a paper stack is mounted, and first air blowing devices and second air blowing devices that blow air against a side face of the paper stack mounted on the mounting surface. The second air blowing devices are disposed in the vicinity of a maximum height position and at a height of a position where air outlets of the second air blowing devices include the mounting surface. |
| US08529050B2 |
Printing device and cassette
The present invention relates to a cassette for a recording medium, comprising an upper casing and a lower casing, a spool for holding a roll of recording medium and disposed the upper and lower casings, and a side casing for enclosing the spool and joining the upper and lower casings, wherein the side casing is fitted to at least one of the upper and lower casings by means of press fit or snap-fit connections. Various embodiments of cassettes and printers are also disclosed. |
| US08529049B2 |
Inkjet printing methods and inkjet ink sets
An inkjet printing method including, in order, the steps of: a) providing at least two or more color inkjet inks of the same color and color density but having a different composition to an inkjet printer; b) mixing the two or more color inkjet inks in a controlled amount; and c) printing the mixture of the two or more color inkjet inks with the inkjet printer onto an ink-receiver. An inkjet printer and an inkjet ink set include two or more color inkjet inks of the same color and color density but having a different composition. |
| US08529034B2 |
Liquid container and liquid supplying system
A liquid container detachably mountable to a recording apparatus to which a plurality of liquid containers are detachably mountable, wherein the recording apparatus includes apparatus electrical contacts corresponding to the liquid containers, respectively, photoreceptor means for receiving light, and an electric circuit connected with a line which is commonly connected with the apparatus electrical contacts, the liquid container includes a container electrical contact electrically connectable with one of the apparatus contacts; an information storing portion capable of storing at least individual information of the liquid container; a light emitting portion; a controller for controlling emission of light of the light emitting portion in response to a correspondence between a signal indicative of individual information supplied through the container electrical contact and the information stored in the information storing means. |
| US08529030B2 |
Check valve unit for solid ink reservoir system
A check valve unit is provided for a high-speed phase change ink image producing machine between a reservoir for receiving and holding a volume of melted ink from a source and a receiving unit, which may be a printhead system. The check valve unit includes a plurality of ball elements trapped between upper and lower housings defining a like plurality of inlet and discharge passageways. The passageways are configured to optimize flow of melted ink through the unit during charging of the secondary reservoir. The check valve unit is scalable as to size and number of reservoirs for a particular application. The unit further incorporates features that simplify the manufacturing and assembly process while maintaining optimal performance. |
| US08529028B2 |
Fluid distribution system having printhead bypass from container
A fluid distribution system for a printhead, the system having a fluid container, a first fluid path interconnecting the container and a first fluid port of the printhead, a second fluid path interconnecting the container and a second fluid port of the printhead, a third fluid path interconnecting the first and second paths, wherein the first, second and third paths are configured so that fluid from the container flows between the first and second paths via the printhead and via the third fluid path. |
| US08529027B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes: a liquid ejecting head; a liquid receiving section; a suction pump that is connected the liquid receiving section; a first liquid containing section that contains first liquid; a second liquid containing section that contains second liquid. When the second liquid in the liquid ejecting head is exchanged for the first liquid, the liquid ejecting head eject the liquid toward the liquid receiving section in a state in which the liquid receiving section is away from the liquid ejecting head, and when the first liquid in the liquid ejecting head is exchanged for the second liquid, the suction pump to operate in a state in which the liquid receiving section has been brought into contact with the liquid ejecting head to cover the ejection nozzles. |
| US08529024B2 |
Piezoelectric element, liquid ejecting head, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A piezoelectric element comprising an electrode film and a piezoelectric layer provided above the electrode film. The electrode film is preferentially oriented with (111) surface and contains platinum as the main component. The electrode film has a rhombohedral system. |
| US08529018B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a carriage carrying a recording head and being movably supported, the recording head being configured to eject liquid onto a recording medium, a plurality of driven units to be driven by a drive source that generates a driving force, a transmission-switching mechanism configured to switch between the driven units, a carriage locker configured to prevent and allow movement of the carriage, and a transmission-switching locker configured to prevent and allow switching between the driven units. Movement prevention by the carriage locker and switching prevention by the transmission-switching locker are in synchronicity, and movement allowance by the carriage locker and switching allowance by the transmission-switching locker are in synchronicity. |
| US08529015B2 |
Apparatus and method for removal of ink from an exterior of a printhead
In an inkjet printing apparatus, a heater heats a drip bib that is located below a plurality of inkjets in a printhead to a temperature that melts ink collected on a surface of the drip bib. Pressurized air is directed toward the surface of the drip bib to remove the melted ink from the surface of the drip bib. |
| US08529012B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method for correcting landing positions of liquid droplets
An image forming apparatus including a first carriage having at least two first recording heads, a second carriage separatably dockable with the first carriage, a pattern forming unit to control the at least two first recording heads to form on a recording medium adjustment patterns for correcting a shift in landing positions of liquid droplets ejected from the at least two first recording heads, a pattern detector provided to the first carriage to read the adjustment patterns, and a landing position corrector to correct the shift in the landing positions of the liquid droplets based on a result obtained by the pattern detector. The at least two first recording heads form multiple rows of the adjustment patterns, and the pattern detector successively reads at least two rows of the multiple rows of the adjustment patterns without docking and separation of the first and second carriages. |
| US08529011B2 |
Drop detection mechanism and a method of use thereof
A drop detection mechanism and method of use thereof is disclosed. In an embodiment, a shaped laser beam is employed to scatter light off of ink drops that are fired from a plurality of nozzles. A low cost, high throughput detector is utilized to detect the individual drops and thereby calculate the drop count, drop velocity and other drop characteristics. Consequently, through the use of the below described embodiments, new levels of print image quality are enabled on a broad range of inkjet printers, including industrial and web printers. |
| US08529010B2 |
Recording device and method for controlling recording device
A recording device includes a conveying part that conveys roll paper, a support part that supports the roll paper, a suction part that holds the roll paper to the support part by suction, a recording part that ejects liquid and records an image on the roll paper, a heating part that heats the support part to dry the liquid, a cleaning part that cleans the recording part, and a controller that causes the suction part to use a first suction force to hold the roll paper to the support part by suction when the recording part performs a recording action for recording the image, and causes the suction part to use a second suction force, which is weaker than the first suction force, to hold the roll paper to the support part by suction when the cleaning part performs a cleaning action for cleaning the recording part. |
| US08529009B2 |
Printing device and printing method
A printing device includes a nozzle, a radiation unit and a control unit. The nozzle is configured to eject metallic ink including metal fragments onto a medium. The radiation unit is configured to irradiate the medium with light to temporarily cure the metallic ink. The control unit is configured to control irradiation of the light by the radiation unit so that a film thickness formed by the metallic ink is equal to or less than a length of a long side of the metal fragments when the metallic ink is temporarily cured on the medium. |
| US08529007B2 |
Method and system for reflex printing to compensate for registration errors in a continuous web inkjet printer
A method of operating a printer enables compensation parameters to be generated and stored in association with system conditions detected at the time of the compensation parameter generation. Upon detection of corresponding system conditions at a later time, the printer is able to use the previously generated and stored compensation parameters to adjust the timing of printhead ejections to improve the registration in ink images formed by the system. |
| US08529004B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
A printing apparatus includes a print head that has a plurality of nozzles including lower-end portion nozzles, center-portion nozzles, and upper-end portion nozzles, a medium transport unit that transports a medium that becomes a printing target, an edge detecting unit that detects an edge included in image data, and a print control unit that forms a pixel pattern on the medium by driving the print head together with relatively moving the print head and the medium that becomes the printing target, forms an overlapping pixel pattern on the medium by using nozzles, the number of which is a first number in a case where the edge is not detected by the edge detecting unit for the overlapping pixel pattern that can be formed by the upper-end portion nozzle and the lower-portion nozzle, and forms the overlapping pixel pattern on the medium by using nozzles, the number of which is a second number smaller than the first number in a case where the edge is detected by the edge detecting unit. |
| US08528995B2 |
Household appliance, particularly dishwasher
A household appliance including an appliance door and a container to receive goods to be treated. The container has a container opening that is closed by the appliance door. The household appliance further includes stiffeners that are associated, at least in sections, with the container opening. The stiffeners increase the rigidity of the container in a region of the container opening and have a centering element by which the appliance door is aligned with the container opening when the appliance door is closed. The stiffeners and the centering element are made of a uniform material and/or embodied in one piece as a plastic profile part. |
| US08528994B2 |
Drawer glide assembly for a drawer-type dishwasher
A drawer glide assembly for a drawer type dishwasher includes a mounting bracket having a top edge portion, a bottom edge portion and side portions that collectively define first and second opposing surfaces. The mounting bracket also includes a pad member that projects laterally outward from the first surface and a hook member that projects laterally outward from the second surface. The glide assembly further includes a drawer glide unit having a first rail member slidably interconnected with a second rail member through a third rail member. The mounting bracket serves as an interface between a tub of the dishwasher and an outer housing. That is, the mounting bracket is supported upon the outer housing by the hook member and the glide assembly is secured to both the tub and the first surface. In this fashion, the tub can be readily shifted into and out from the outer housing. |
| US08528993B2 |
Sealing structure for sealing multiple sections and a drawer of a medical emergency cart
An emergency crash cart includes a sealing structure that enables multiple storage sections of the cart to be locked and sealed simultaneously. The locking structure enables one of the storage sections to be unlocked and unsealed without unlocking or unsealing the other storage sections. The locking structure also can be actuated to unlock and unseal all storage sections simultaneously for rapid access to the contents of all storage sections of the cart. |
| US08528992B2 |
Connecting device and rubber link track
A device for connecting two free ends of a rubber band track to one another or for connecting the ends of several band segments to one another. The device has two or more tubes and a pin rubber-mounted in the respective tube. The tubes are in each case inserted into the one end and into the other end of the rubber band track or of the band segments, and at least one connector, by way of which the pins are coupled together in a rotationally fixed manner. The rotational rigidity of the pins in relation to their respective tube, brought about by the rubber mounting, is adjusted in dependence on the flexural strength of the rubber band track or of the band segments in the region of the ends. |
| US08528991B2 |
Vehicle wheel rim
A vehicle wheel, including a peripheral rim with a radially outboard spoke bed and an apex region radially inboard from the spoke bed portion; a central hub with a hub flange; a plurality of spokes extending between the rim and hub, with a first portion connected to the spoke bed and a second portion connected to the hub flange. The apex region includes a first apex portion and a second apex portion axially adjacent the first apex portion and a circumferential seam between the first apex portion and the second apex portion. |
| US08528987B2 |
Linear seat belt pretensioner
A linear seat belt pretensioner (10, 110, 210) has a frame (12; 112, 113; 212, 213) and an axial cavity (24, 60; 124, 160; 232) rigidly connected to the frame (12; 112, 113; 212, 213), a gas generator (20, 120, 220) in fluid communication with the axial cavity (24, 60; 124, 160, 232), and a piston (40, 140, 240) movably arranged in the axial cavity (24, 60; 124, 160; 232). An actuating profile (42, 142, 242) movable with the piston (40, 140) pulls a length of seat belt webbing (38, 238) into the frame (12; 112, 113; 212, 213) that corresponds to twice the piston stroke (D). The pretensioner device having a locking ramp arrangement (66, 70; 266, 290, 292) configured to form a one-way clutch allowing an increase and resisting a reduction of the length of belt webbing (38, 238) received by the pretensioner (10, 110, 210). |
| US08528986B2 |
Seatbelt pretensioner mechanism for vehicle seat
A seatbelt mechanism (S) comprises a chip anchor (12) disposed to one of right and left sides of a seat bottom (3) of the vehicle seat (1) and coupled to a tip end of the seatbelt (10), and a tongue anchor (14) disposed to the other of the right and left sides of the seat bottom (3) and engaged with a tongue plate (13) disposed to an intermediate portion of the seatbelt (10). A pretensioner mechanism (21) moves both the chip anchor (12) and the tongue anchor (14) substantially at the same time to actively tenses the seatbelt (10) when the vehicle collision occurs. A moving distance of the chip anchor (12) is substantially equal to a moving distance of the tongue anchor (14). |
| US08528982B2 |
Seat
A seat has a configuration in which, in each side frame of a cushion frame, an inner frame and an outer frame which have flanges extending along peripheral edges thereof are faced to each other with a space therebetween at least partially, and the flanges are fixed by hemming process along the entire peripheral edges thereof. Since the entire peripheral edges are hemmed, the inner frame and the outer frame are securely fixed. Additionally, since the inner frame and the outer frame which are thin-plate-shaped are used, reduction in weight of each side frame can be achieved. Further, since the inner frame and the outer frame are faced to each other with a space therebetween at least partially, a compressive/tensile strength required as a side frame can be secured by inserting an expanded bead body into the space. |
| US08528979B2 |
Tool-less furniture assembly joint and applications
Several variations of a tool-less, reversible joint having two tension fingers and at least one shear finger are described. Applications of the joint include items of flat-pack-style furniture such as chairs, tables and bookshelves. The joints can be formed in a sheet material such as plywood or medium-density fiberboard (“MDF”). |
| US08528975B2 |
Drive device for a motor vehicle swivel seat
A motor vehicle, a vehicle seat for a motor vehicle, and a drive device are provided for swiveling-in and swiveling-out a vehicle seat that is swivelable about a substantially vertical axis, in particular for a front motor vehicle seat which is connected to a motor vehicle by means of a rotary frame. The drive device includes, but is not limited to a first drive unit that applies a driving force for causing a swiveling movement of the seat in at least one swiveling direction. A second drive unit is provided which acts against the first drive unit to provide a second driving force which acts simultaneously against the driving force of the first drive unit, which second driving force causes a second swiveling movement of the vehicle seat. |
| US08528969B2 |
Class chair
A class chair includes a chair frame, seat, and a table. A rack is arranged below the chair frame, and the seat is arranged to a top of the chair frame. A table retaining plate is formed to a lower lateral side of the chair frame so as to fix a linking plate of a table frame of the table. The class chair provides a steady and durable assembly. Through the removable table frame and the rack, the assembly of the chair frame and the seat can be piled on top of each other so as to save the space and cost of transportation and storing. |
| US08528967B2 |
Rear floor structure for a motor vehicle
A rear floor structure for a motor vehicle includes, but is not limited to two longitudinal girders extending between rear wheel houses. A downwardly open pocket for receiving a shock absorber is formed in each of the longitudinal girders. |
| US08528965B2 |
Operator's cab for a work vehicle
The operator's cab 8 is provided with a floor frame 10 having an opening for maintenance 20 located at a floor base 10a and a lid body 23 for closing the opening for maintenance 20. The lid body 23 includes an upper inspection cover 22 and a lower inspection cover 21 which are aligned in a vertical direction with spacing so as to be attachable and detachable relative to the opening for maintenance 20. Disposed in a space between the upper inspection cover 22 and the lower inspection cover 21 is a floor duct 30 that can be disassembled and is provided for circulating supply air sent from an air conditioner 27. |
| US08528963B1 |
Expandable cargo and camping trailer
A expandable camping and cargo trailer features at least one fold-out bunk mounted at a side wall of the trailer. The frame of the trailer is designed to support the weight of the bunk when folded out and carrying a load. In certain versions, the frame members of the side wall frame are doubled or tripled in order to provide sufficient strength and rigidity to the side wall. The trailer is sufficiently light to be pulled by most cars and light trucks, while also providing sufficient storage space for motorcycles, ATVs, and the like. |
| US08528962B2 |
Mobile home with an integrated deck
Described herein is a mobile home 1 being a caravan, recreational vehicle or the like that includes an outdoor deck section 3 that pivots from the main structure 2. When in an open configuration, the deck 3 is available for use and, when being moved, the deck portion 3 is moved to integrate with the main structure 2. |
| US08528961B2 |
Electric swing plug door operator with auxiliary door locking mechanism
The invention is directed to an electric swing plug door operator with a remotely powered auxiliary lock mechanism, door striker, catch and manual release system for use on light to medium duty shuttle or utility vehicles. The swing plug door system includes a door operator and base plate assembly, a shaft and arm assembly, a guide rod assembly, a lower shaft pivot, a door panel with a leading edge catch and lock striker assembly, an auxiliary lock and a manual release cable. The auxiliary lock assembly includes a lock bar engaging the lock striker mounted to the trailing edge of the door panel when the door reaches the fully closed position. The door operator includes a manual release lever and gear motor subassembly to drive the door system linkage and to manually disengage the door linkage and lock assembly to gain manual egress from the vehicle. |
| US08528958B2 |
Vehicle seat accommodating device
A vehicle seat accommodating device of the invention includes: a seat configured to include a seat cushion and a seat back supported so as to be tiltable with respect to the seat cushion; an accommodation recess portion formed on a floor located behind the seat; and a support unit movably supporting the seat so as to accommodate the seat in the accommodation recess portion in a state where the seat back is folded so as to be overlapped on the seat cushion, wherein when the seat is adjusted to a seating posture, both ends of the seat cushion in a vehicle width direction are mounted on wheel housings that are bloated from side walls of a vehicle body toward the inside in the vehicle width direction. |
| US08528957B2 |
Cargo management system
A vehicle is provided with a seat oriented in a passenger compartment forward of a storage compartment. The seat has a seat back that is pivotally connected to a body of the vehicle. The seat back is pivotable between a seating position and a storage position. A battery is disposed within the storage compartment. A tray is removably connected to the vehicle body in either one of a first and a second position. The tray is elevated from the battery within the storage compartment in the first position. The tray is connected to the vehicle body such that it is contiguous with and forward of the battery in the second position. A flat load floor is formed by the top surface of a housing of the battery together with the tray. |
| US08528949B2 |
Door handle stroke change structure
A door handle stroke change structure includes a latch mechanism, an electric latch drive mechanism, a mechanical latch drive mechanism, and an operation member which operates the electric latch drive mechanism and the mechanical latch drive mechanism. The operation member is moveable among a closed position, a first position at which the electric latch drive mechanism is operated, and a second position at which the mechanical latch drive mechanism is operated. A motion to move the operation member from the closed position to the first position is a same motion as a motion to move the operation member from the closed position to the second position. A movement amount of the operation member from the closed position to the first position is greater than a movement amount of the operation member from the closed position to the second position by the motion. |
| US08528947B2 |
Closed container and lid opening/closing system therefor
In a pod used in an FIMS system, diffusion of dust particles or the like adhering on the lid of the pod to the interior of the system is reduced. An engaged portion is provided inside the outer surface of the lid of the pod, and a flange portion provided around a pod opening to which the lid can be fitted is provided with an insertion hole that allows access to the engaged portion from the exterior space. A latch mechanism is supported on the pod body side surface of the flange portion in such a way that the latch mechanism can slide along a direction parallel to the side wall of the flange. An engagement portion of the latch mechanism reaches the engaged portion through the insertion hole, and the state of the latch mechanism changes between an engaged state and a disengaged state with movement of the latch mechanism. |
| US08528944B2 |
Stopper grip ring for plumbing pipes
A stopper grip ring for plumbing pipes. A stopper grip ring for plumbing pipes, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, includes: an outer circumferential portion which forms an outer diameter of a ring shape; an O-ring supporting portion formed to be bent at one side of the outer circumferential portion so as to come into contact with an O-ring and having an entry inducing portion which is formed to be inclined at one end portion, and an inserting portion which is formed at the other end portion and enters while being induced by the entry inducing portion; and a stopper portion formed to be bent at the other side of the outer circumferential portion so as to be spaced apart from the O-ring supporting portion and having a sharpened portion which is formed at an edge and is divided by a plurality of slits. |
| US08528943B2 |
Coupling assembly
A male coupling for attaching to a female coupling in which rotation of the male coupling with respect to the female coupling is limited. In one embodiment, the male coupling has one or more tabs extending from a flange, the tabs limiting rotation when the male coupling is mated to a female coupling assembly for fluid conductors. |
| US08528939B2 |
Mountable coupon card assembly
A coupon card assembly for attaching to a support structure is disclosed. The assembly includes a hinge partially cut through first and second layers of material and a liner to define a first and second card portion movable about a pivot axis. The first card portion includes a score line disposed along a width and cut through the first layer of material to define a segment of the first layer of material removable from the first card portion to expose one of a first and second layer of adhesive remaining on the first card portion for attaching the first card portion to the support structure. The score line is spaced from the pivot axis with at least a portion of the hinge continuing to include both of the first and second layers of material such that the hinge remains functional after removing the segment. |
| US08528935B2 |
Airbag apparatus and tether sewing method
There is provided an airbag that is folded up in a normal state and is inflated and deployed in an emergency state. The airbag includes: a base fabric; a tether sewn to the base fabric and configured to restrict a shape of the airbag when the airbag is inflated and deployed. The base fabric has a first pin hole therethrough in a contact region where the base fabric and the tether contacts each other, and the tether has a second pin hole therethrough in the contact region, wherein a position of the second pin hole corresponds to a position of the first pin hole. The tether has a folded back portion sewn to the tether and covering the first and second pin holes. The respective first and second pin holes are configured to receive a positioning pin for fixing the base fabric and tether to each other. |
| US08528934B2 |
Airbag device
Closing movement of at least one of two or more air chambers is started at an early stage, and an inflated air chamber is tightly closed and maintained in an inflated state for a long time. Inside of an airbag is partitioned into air chambers, with a partitioning cloth, and a diffuser that stores a gas generator is disposed in the air chambers, through the partitioning cloth. Gas from a gas generator is rectified by the diffuser, and is supplied from outlet parts, into the air chambers, thereby inflating and deploying the air chambers. An occupant side base cloth, a semi-perimeter portion around the lower outlet part, is connected to a back-side base cloth of the airbag, and in accordance with an inflation of the lower air chamber, a tension is imposed on the occupant side base cloth from the back-side base cloth, thereby elongating the lower air chamber. This causes the base cloths to come close to each other and gradually narrow the opening width, thereby enabling the base cloths to closely stick to each other so as to close the opening of the lower outlet part. |
| US08528933B1 |
Contour airbag
An airbag is provided that includes one or more creases or knobs within a catch zone that allows automatic positioning of the catch zone upon contact with an occupant. The knob and crease provide for flexible airbag positioning that is automatically adjustable dependent on the location an occupant contacts an airbag, the mass or dimension of an occupant, or position of a vehicle section, so as to provide directional support and guidance for the position of an airbag upon deployment or contact with an occupant. |
| US08528927B2 |
Steering apparatus for a vehicle
A steering apparatus for a vehicle includes a stem pipe disposed in a head pipe by upper and lower bearings interposed therebetween, a seal member for covering the upper bearing, and bottom and top bridges mounted on lower and upper ends of the stem pipe, respectively. A single fastening bolt, having a step formed between a head and a threaded surface thereof, is fitted in a pipe insertion hole of the top bridge and the upper threaded portion of the stem pipe. The stem pipe is firmly tightened and supported by a stem pipe slot-tightening mechanism of the top bridge. The fastening bolt is tightened by only a tightening force required to keep the fastening bolt from loosening. Also, a number of components required for the inventive steering apparatus is reduced, since an additional component, previously used for preventing loosening of a fastening bolt, is made unnecessary. |
| US08528922B2 |
Chassis
A chassis for a vehicle includes a frame as well as a first axle and a second axle, on which the wheels of the vehicle are mounted on bearings. The axles are connected to the frame to swivel at least with respect to a vertical axis and a longitudinal axis, and are connected to each other by means of mechanisms for transmitting motion in such a way that the movements of the first axle are transmitted to the second axle, and vice versa. In the chassis, the mechanisms for transmitting the motion includes arms for transmitting motion between the axles, and the arms are configured to remain primarily parallel to the longitudinal direction of the frame, irrespective of the movements of the axles. |
| US08528916B2 |
Shopping cart infant seat
An infant seat mounted on a shopping cart permits an infant to be carried while avoiding interference with a nesting function of the shopping cart. The infant seat includes a mounting plate that can be fastened to the shopping cart at a gate that can pivot about an axis to permit the infant seat to pivot with the gate during shopping cart nesting. The infant seat can be mounted to the shopping cart at a desired mounting angle with the optional use of wedges that have particular angles of inclination. The combination of wedges can be used to produce a desired mounting angle for different types of shopping carts to which the infant seat is fastened. Mounting angle indicia can be provided on the infant seat to help determine a proper or desired mounting angle for the infant seat. A gauge to determine a proper or desired mounting angle can be used with the indicia to obtain the desired mounting angle. The infant seat is weather resistant and provides a robust support for temporarily transporting an infant on a shopping cart. |
| US08528915B2 |
Rider platform for self-propelled vehicle
A self-propelled vehicle comprises a frame and a platform pivotally mountable to a rear portion of the vehicle frame. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position in which the platform extends generally horizontally from the rear portion of the frame to support a rider during operation of the vehicle, and a second position in which the platform is removably secured in a generally upright position adjacent the rear portion of the frame to enable walk-behind operation of the vehicle. |
| US08528910B2 |
Wall-mountable game device
A game device having a top panel, a bottom panel, a left panel, a right panel, and a back panel. The top panel is disposed laterally between the left panel and the right panel, with the top panel oriented substantially perpendicular to the left and right panels. The back panel is disposed transversely between the left and right panels. The bottom panel is disposed laterally between the left and right panels. The front edge of the bottom panel terminates at the front edge of the top panel, and the back edge of the bottom panel terminates at the bottom edge of the back panel. The top panel has one or more apertures adapted to removably retain one or more cups. A cup support panel may be located below and oriented parallel with the top panel. The game device is adapted to be secured to a rigid structure, such as a wall, by hooks, hangers, or the like. |
| US08528902B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus with differential roller diameters
A sheet conveying apparatus includes a curve-shaped conveying path conveying a sheet from a first conveyance direction toward a second conveyance direction, a drive conveying portion conveying the sheet in the second conveyance direction by a pair of mutually-pressed rollers, and a belt conveying portion conveying the sheet toward the drive conveying portion by an endless belt member, wherein the belt conveying portion is configured to include a first belt support roller which is arranged coaxially with one of the pair of rollers and a second belt support roller which is arranged at an upstream side of the drive conveying portion from the first belt support roller, to wind the belt member around the first and second belt support members, and to set an outer diameter of the first belt support roller including the belt member to be smaller than an outer diameter of the one roller. |
| US08528893B2 |
Paper feeding device and multi-function printer using the same
A paper feeding device and a multi-function printer using the same are provided. The paper feeding device includes a frame, a top cover, a set of gear chains, a power unit and a set of driving gears. The set of gear chains and the power unit are disposed on a side of the frame. The set of driving gears is disposed on the top cover. When the top cover is closed relatively to the frame, the set of driving gears interferes with the power unit, and the power unit provides a power to enable the set of driving gears to rotate, so as to drive the set of gear chains. When the top cover is opened relatively to the frame, the set of driving gears releases interference with the power unit and the set of gear chains, and the set of gear chains is at a free rotation status. |
| US08528887B2 |
Holder for fastening an interior component, intended for mounting in an aircraft, to a transporting apparatus
A holder for fastening an interior component, intended for mounting in an aircraft, to a transporting apparatus, includes an interface element configured to be connected to the transporting apparatus for the purpose of fastening the holder to the transporting apparatus. A bearing element is connected to the interface element and has a fixed bearing for bearing a first interior component holder connected to the interior component and a movable bearing for bearing a second interior component holder connected to the interior component. |
| US08528885B2 |
Multi-stage spring system
Embodiments of a multi-stage spring system are provided herein. In some embodiments, a multi-stage spring system includes a spring assembly having at least one resilient element, wherein the spring assembly has a first spring constant when deflected up to a first distance, a greater, second spring constant when deflected beyond the first distance and up to a second distance, and a greater, third spring constant when deflected beyond the second distance and up to a third distance, and wherein the spring assembly stores mechanical energy when deflected towards a contact surface that biases the spring assembly away from the contact surface when released. |
| US08528884B2 |
Injection nozzle for supplying reducing agent and device for treating exhaust gases
An injection nozzle for supplying reducing agent to an exhaust gas system includes a plurality of outlet openings, each of which can generate different droplets of the reducing agent. A device for the treatment of exhaust gases includes an exhaust gas treatment unit and at least one corresponding injection nozzle, in which at least two groups of outlet openings form different impingement regions on the exhaust gas treatment unit. |
| US08528883B2 |
Hollow fiber membrane for humidifier and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a hollow fiber membrane for a humidifier which exhibits superior moisture/heat-resistance and excellent hydrophilicity and can be manufactured at low cost, and a method for manufacturing the same. The hollow fiber membrane includes a tube-type first hydrophilic polymer film having a hollow center, and a second hydrophilic polymer film coated on the inner surface of the tube-type first hydrophilic polymer film. The method includes producing an intermediate hollow fiber membrane from a first hydrophilic polymer material, potting the intermediate hollow fiber membrane in a housing to produce an intermediate hollow fiber membrane module, and coating a second hydrophilic polymer film on the inner surface of the intermediate hollow fiber membrane. |
| US08528882B2 |
Water carbonator with plastic end plates
A water carbonator has a tubular body (1) closed at the ends by a pair of end plates (2, 4) preset for the hydraulic circuit for mixing water with CO2. These end plates (2, 4) are secured to the tubular body (1) by a shape coupling. Sealing of pressure of the fluid contained in the tubular body (1) is ensured by interposing elastic gaskets (3, 18). |
| US08528880B2 |
Butterfly valve plate sealing assemblies
A sealing assembly for use in a valve plate assembly includes a sealing ring and a retention spacer. The sealing ring has a radial ring section and an axial ring section, the axial ring section extends axially from the radial section and includes an outer diameter surface and a contact face, the contact face includes a contact surface and an annular slot, and the contact surface is located radially outward relative to the annular slot. The retention spacer is configured to be positioned adjacent the sealing ring. |
| US08528877B2 |
Latching gas on/off assembly
The latching gas ON/OFF assembly includes a housing with a female threaded bore for receiving a male threaded neck of a gas tank cylinder having a tank valve with a pin. A bonnet is slidably connected to the housing and slides between a forward OFF position and rearward ON position. A pin depressor connected to the bonnet with a transverse latch button for locking the bonnet in the ON position and for releasing the bonnet from the ON position. When the bonnet is slid to the rearward ON position it causes the pin depressor to contact the pin of the tank valve to permit gas to flow therefrom. The latching button is spring-biased toward a locked position where a plate on the free end thereof removably resides in a complementary seat in the housing. |
| US08528875B2 |
Three-dimensional telescoping adjustable equipment mounting fixture
An adjustable equipment curb has upper and lower frames, each having opposed first and second length-adjustable sides and opposed length-adjustable first and second ends interconnectable to form a rigid frame and height-adjustable mounting legs. The lower frame may be used alone, or may support the upper frame through a shock mount system having mounts affixed to both the upper and lower frames and shock absorbing springs between the mounts. The frames may be formed of interconnecting channel members, and the lower frame channel members may be of a perforated construction that, in conjunction with applied sheathing, provides acoustic damping. Seismic brackets may be affixed to the either of the frames to provide resist seismic shock and developed moment resistance. |
| US08528872B2 |
Equipment enclosure kit and assembly method
An equipment enclosure for housing electronic components includes a front assembly having a front frame, the front assembly defining a front of the enclosure, and a rear assembly having a rear frame. The enclosure further includes at least two side brace members, each side brace member having a first end and a second, opposite end. A first connector is configured to releasably connect the first end of one of the side brace members to the front frame. A second connector is configured to releasably connect the second end of the one of the side brace members to the rear frame. Other embodiments and methods are further disclosed. |
| US08528871B2 |
Wall storage mounting arrangements
A slatwall mounting system includes a rail member and a mounting arrangement. The rail member includes longitudinally extending upper and lower edges, a longitudinally extending upper slot portion including a downward extending undercut a longitudinally extending lower slot portion including an upward extending undercut. The mounting arrangement includes a bracket member having a downward oriented hook portion and a mounting aperture, and a cam assembly having a mounting cam assembled with a user graspable cam driver, the cam and cam driver defining an annular groove for securing the cam assembly to the mounting aperture. The mounting cam is rotatable between a slatwall securing position for mounting engagement with the lower slot of the rail member, and a slatwall releasing position, in response to user manipulation of the cam driver. |
| US08528869B2 |
Retractable post with alarm device
A retractable post with an alarm device includes a plurality of retractable pipes retractably sleeved with each other. A retractable air whistle is secured by a latch block at a proper location inside the retractable pipe. A plug piece is installed at a bottom of the retractable post. The plug piece and the latch block make an interior of the retractable pipe present a dummy seal state, wherein the retractable pipe is almost but not completely sealed. When an abnormal rapid falling displacement of the retractable pipes occurs, the latch block and the retractable air whistle compress the air inside the retractable pipe, and then a bellow of the retractable air whistle is further compressed, such that the air inside the bellow is rapidly discharged through a sounding valve disposed at a front end of the air whistle, thereby generating an alarm sound. |
| US08528867B1 |
Multi-use bag, bag stand, and multi-use bag and bag stand accessories
An apparatus including a bag is disclosed. The bag includes a first panel, a second panel, a first fastener located on the first panel, and a second fastener located on the second panel. The bag is able to move between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the first fastener is releasably secured to the second fastener. In the open position, the first fastener is not in contact with the second fastener. Some embodiments also include a bag stand and a catch. |
| US08528865B2 |
Connecting arrangement for joining two stiffening elements having different cross-sectional profiles for an aircraft or spacecraft, and shell component
A connecting arrangement for connecting two reinforcing elements of an aircraft or spacecraft, wherein the reinforcing elements have different cross-sectional profiles with at least one foot portion and at least one comb portion, at least one foot portion connecting element which on one side can be adapted to the geometric shape of the foot portion of the first reinforcing element and on the opposite side can be adapted to the geometric shape of the foot portion of the second reinforcing element and can be connected rigidly thereto; and at least one comb portion connecting element which on one side can be adapted to the geometric shape of the comb portion of the first reinforcing element and on the opposite side can be adapted to the geometric shape of the comb portion of the second reinforcing element and can be connected rigidly thereto. |
| US08528864B2 |
Protection device for sensitive areas against impact of foreign objects
A protection device includes a flexible laminar body resistant to impacts, arranged separately from the body to be protected and put in the way of the beam of possible trajectories with which a foreign object could impact on the object to be protected, and it includes a plurality of energy absorption elements, provided with device clamping elements over a support structure positioned outside of the beam of possible trajectories, in order for the flexible laminar body to intercept an impact trajectory by the foreign object, resulting in its deformation and the subsequent progressive extension of the energy absorption elements reducing the loads to be supported by the support structure. The protection device is applied to prevent birds or other objects from impacting on sensitive areas of aircraft. The protection device is of a textile nature of reduced weight. |
| US08528863B2 |
Multi-layer metal/shape memory polymer roll-up wing structures for fitment-constrained air vehicles
A laminated wing structure includes at least one layer of metal material and at least one layer of a shape memory polymer (SMP) material. The SMP is heated to a temperature in its glass transition band Tg to roll the wing around the air vehicle into a stored position. The metal layer(s) must be thin enough to remain below its yield point when rolled up. In preparation for launch, the SMP material is thermally activated allowing the strain energy stored in the layer of metal material to return the wing to its deployed position at launch. Once deployed, the SMP cools to its glassy state. The SMP material may be reinforced with fiber to form a polymer matrix composite (PMC). SMP may be used to provide shear strain relief for multiple metal layers. By offloading the motive force required to return the wing to its original deployed position from the SMP to the metal, the polymer does not acquire a permanent set and the wing may be deployed accurately. |
| US08528861B2 |
Adjustable width seats
A seating system may comprise a first seat, a second seat, and a plurality of armrests. The plurality of armrests may be located between the first seat and the second seat. The plurality of armrests may be capable of being deployed to change a seating space for the first seat. |
| US08528858B2 |
Reducing circulation in a wake turbulence behind an airplane flying at low altitude
For reducing a circulation of wake vortexes in a wake turbulence behind an airplane flying over ground at low altitude, at least one ring vortex of airflow is generated at the ground on each side of a vertical middle plane of the airplane. Each ring vortex has a vortex axis and a direction of propagation, wherein the vortex axis is oriented at an angle with regard to the ground, and wherein the propagation direction is oriented upwards from the ground; and each ring vortex disturbs at least one wake vortex to induce its decay. |
| US08528857B2 |
Translatable jet engine thrust reverser configuration providing improved maintenance access
A translatable thrust inverter with grids for a turbojet, that defines at least a portion of the downstream section of a nacelle housing the turbojet. The thrust reversal system includes a front frame secured to a fixed portion of the nacelle and bearing. A first side includes cylinders for the translational actuation of at least one mobile cowling. A second side includes grids for inverting the peripheral thrusts, wherein the front frame includes a fixed portion for securing the front frame to the fixed portion of the nacelle and bearing the diversion grids. The system further includes a portion mounted so as to be capable of translational movement along the longitudinal axis of the nacelle and on which one end of the cowling actuation cylinders is attached, wherein the fixed and mobile portions of the front frame can be removably connected to each other by locking means. |
| US08528853B2 |
In-line staged horizontal takeoff and landing space plane
A vehicle includes a first sub-vehicle, and a second sub-vehicle which is repeatably moveable between coupled and uncoupled conditions with the first sub-vehicle. The first and second sub-vehicles each include a landing system and propulsion system. The first and second sub-vehicles are in the coupled condition during take-off. The first and second sub-vehicles are separately flyable in the uncoupled condition. Both vehicles are launched horizontally, by a ramp, or vertically, using atmospheric lift to achieve atmospheric flight, orbital, or sub-orbital launch. |
| US08528852B2 |
Flight unit that can be coupled to a road vehicle having single-file seating
A vehicle suitable as both a road vehicle and an aircraft, which includes two units that can be coupled to one another; a first unit embodies a road vehicle with least single-file seating, and a second unit is embodied as a flight unit. |
| US08528849B2 |
Ratchet buckle
A ratchet buckle has a body and a trigger. One end of the body has two opposite pivotal holes, two opposite positioning notches, and a pivotal shaft penetrating the pivotal holes. Two ends of the pivotal shaft each have a ratchet wheel synchronously rotating with the pivotal shaft. One end of the trigger has two opposite shaft holes engaged to the pivotal shaft of the body and has a positioning rod transversally mounted on the trigger to engage the two positioning notches of the body. By operating the trigger to set the pivotal shaft free, the pivotal shaft is easily rotated to reel a strap. |
| US08528846B2 |
Vibratory crushing apparatus
A vibratory crushing apparatus includes at least one trough having an inlet end, an outlet end, and a wall defining a material-receiving space having a first cross-sectional area. The apparatus also includes at least one crusher disposed in the trough, the at least one crusher having an outer surface that conforms to an inner surface of the wall about a circumference of the crusher, and a second cross-sectional area that is smaller than the first cross-sectional area so as to define a gap between the outer surface of the at least one crusher and the inner surface of the wall. Further, the apparatus includes a vibration generator coupled to the at least one trough to cause material to move between the inlet end and the outlet end and to cause the at least one crusher to move relative to the wall of the trough. |
| US08528845B2 |
Flexible chipper chute having two chip discharge configurations
A chip discharge chute having a flexible chute main section having an upstream end connectable from a chipping machine output, a main section elevation mechanism connected to the downstream end of the chute main section for controlling a height of the downstream end of the flexible main section with respect to a chip receiving area, and a chute deflector section pivotably connected to the downstream end of the flexible main section for receiving chips from the downstream end of the chute main section and a downstream end with a downwardly directed ejection opening for discharging chips into the chip receiving area. The chute deflector section is rotated out of alignment with the chute main section so that the chip discharge path includes only the chute main section when the chips are to be discharged along the horizontal trajectory and is rotated into alignment with the chute main section so that the chip discharge path includes both the chute main section and the chute deflector section when the chips are to be discharged along the generally vertically downward trajectory. |
| US08528844B2 |
Roller mill with application of gas
A roller mill for grinding particulate material such as cement raw materials, cement clinker and similar materials includes a mill housing, a substantially horizontal and stationary grinding table, and a number of rollers each rotating about a roller shaft which is connected to a rotatable vertical shaft centrally positioned relative to the stationary grinding table. The rollers are configured for interactive operation with the grinding table. The grinding table is stationary. The roller mill also includes at least one first device utilized for introducing gases into the mill housing and at least one second device for continuously diverting ground material suspended in gases out of the mill housing. As a consequence hereof, the process for the roller mill with a stationary grinding table will be continuous and the diameter of the grinding table will not be subject to limitations. |
| US08528843B2 |
Bale splitter and a method for splitting a wrapped bale and for separating wrapping material from the bale
A bale splitter (1) for mounting on a front end loader arm of a tractor' comprises a support framework (5) having a plurality of tines (7) extending transversely therefrom for supporting a cylindrical wrapped bale (2). A pair of carrier arms (15) pivotally coupled to the support framework (5) carry a cutting blade (20) for splitting the bale (2) and for simultaneously cutting wrapping material of the bale (2). The cutting blade (20) is slightly spaced apart from the tines (7) for preventing cutting of the wrapping material (4) adjacent the tines (7) so that the wrapping material remains in one single integral piece after splitting of the bale (2). A grab (30) comprising jaws (32,33) is supported on the support framework (5) to abut the bale (2) when supported on the tines (7), and for gripping the wrapping material (4) prior to operation of the cutting blade (20) for cutting the bale (2). By tilting the bale splitter (1) the split bale is discharged and the wrapping material (4) still gripped by the grab (30) is thus separated from the split bale. |
| US08528840B2 |
Sanitary water outlet
A sanitary insert (1) includes a housing (8) and a flow guide (4), the housing (8) having a generally cylindrical shape and an inner wall portion thereof has a concavity (3) around its periphery. The flow guide (4) having generally a disc shape with an outer wall portion thereof having a convexity (2), the housing (8) being configured to pivotally secure the flow guide (4) within it by a ball and socket type engagement thereby allowing an articulating movement of the flow guide (4) within the housing (8). The housing (8) being configured to be inserted into a plumbing outflow fitting. |
| US08528839B2 |
Combustor nozzle and method for fabricating the combustor nozzle
A combustor nozzle includes a single-piece swirler. The single-piece swirler includes a center body extending axially along the single-piece swirler, a first fuel passage inside the center body, and a plurality of vanes extending radially from the center body. A method for fabricating a combustor nozzle includes casting a single-piece swirler having a center body and a plurality of vanes extending radially from the center body. |
| US08528837B2 |
Aerosol can
The invention relates to an aerosol can comprising a body containing a propellant and an aerosol product, a valve whose actuation enables said aerosol product to be sprayed, and a spray head (1) which serves to discharge the aerosol product to the environment when the valve is actuated. The spray product discharge rate of the inventive aerosol can is adjustable by means of an adjusting device provided in the spray head (1). Said invention can primarily be used for aerosol paint cans in view of the fact that for such applications a controlled and uniform discharge rate is of particular importance in order to avoid painting defects. |
| US08528836B2 |
Leak stopping sprinkler heads
A leak stopping sprinkler head includes a hollow body that has an upper portion and a lower portion fluidly connected to a valve body. The upper portion has a spraying nozzle and a first internal diameter. The lower portion has a second, larger internal diameter. The valve body includes a valve seat fluidly connected to the lower portion and a water supply. A hollow spheroid is larger than the first diameter, smaller than the second diameter and has perforations for passage of water. A rigid rod connects the spheroid and a sealing disk for the valve seat. The rod is sized to hold the disk away from the valve seat when the hollow body is intact. Destruction of the hollow body permits the spheroid to move out of the hollow body, pulling the rod and the disk upwardly, causing the disk to seal the valve, stopping the flow of water. |
| US08528835B2 |
Plasma spray nozzle with internal injection
A plasma spray nozzle is provided. Owing to their high degree of wear, previous plasma spray nozzles were not suitable for the coating of components for which long coating times were necessary. The coating times may be reduced considerably by the triple injection of powder into the inner channel through the plasma spray nozzle. |
| US08528830B2 |
Methods and system for cooling a reaction effluent gas
In one embodiment, a method for cooling a reaction effluent gas includes feeding a sufficient amount of a suitable silicon source cooling gas into a stream of the reaction effluent gas, wherein the reaction effluent gas is produced by a thermal decomposition of at least one silicon source gas in a reactor, and wherein sufficient amount of the suitable silicon source cooling gas is defined based a concentration of the at least one chemical species in the reaction effluent gas; cooling the reaction effluent gas to a sufficient temperature so that: the cooled reaction effluent gas is capable of being handled by a material that is not suitable for handling the reaction effluent gas. |
| US08528829B2 |
Wireless communication device and metal article
A wireless communication device includes a wireless IC device, a dielectric substrate, and a metal plate. A radiation conductor coupled to the wireless IC device is provided on the front surface of the dielectric substrate, and a ground conductor connected to the radiation conductor through an interlayer connection conductor is provided on a back surface. The dielectric substrate is fixed to the metal plate via an insulating adhesive, and is crimped by a conductive member. The front and back surfaces of the metal plate are electrically connected to each other by the conductive member, and when a high-frequency signal is supplied from the wireless IC device, a high-frequency signal current on the front surface side of the metal plate is conducted to the back surface side of the metal plate through a surface boundary portion between the conductive member and the metal plate, and radiated as a high-frequency signal. |
| US08528826B2 |
Wireless tag and manufacturing method
A wireless tag includes a tag-inlet including an antenna pattern formed on a base and an IC chip connected to the antenna pattern on the base, and a flexible member configured to seal the tag-inlet inside the flexible member. In the wireless tag, the tag-inlet is sealed in the flexible member with folded, and the folded tag-inlet has a dielectric spacer formed of the flexible member between the folded tag-inlet. |
| US08528825B2 |
Long range RFID device as modem and systems implementing same
A Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an RFID device having a memory; and an electronic device in electrical communication with the RFID device via a direct physical connection; wherein data received by the RFID device from a remote device is stored in the memory of the RFID device, the data being communicated to the electronic device via the direct physical connection. An RFID system according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an RFID device having a memory; and an electronic device in electrical communication with the RFID device via a direct physical connection; wherein data initiating with the electronic device is stored in the memory of the RFID device for subsequent transmission to a remote device. Methods are also provided. |
| US08528820B2 |
Object identification using barcode reader
A barcode reader for verifying a barcode is attached to an appropriate object particularly suitable for use at a point of sale. A database of expected object signatures in a vicinity of a properly affixed barcode properly is maintained. At a point of sale, the barcode reader obtains an image of a presented barcode (possibly not the correct barcode) and at least a portion of an object to which the presented barcode is affixed. Using data encoded on the presented barcode, the database is accessed to provide an expected signature of the object in the region of the presented barcode. A comparison is made between the expected signature of the object and a sensed signature derived from the image of the object. An improper barcode can thus possibly be identified and further investigation initiated. |
| US08528814B2 |
System and method for preventing fraud by generating new prepaid gift accounts
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for preventing fraud when exchanging prepaid gift accounts. The system identifies a first prepaid gift account associated with a first prepaid gift. The system then presents an owner of the first prepaid gift with an offer to purchase the first prepaid gift account for an offer amount. Next, the system receives from the owner an acceptance of the offer. Based on the acceptance, the system provides payment to the owner for the first prepaid gift account, generates a second prepaid gift account for a second prepaid gift, transfers at least a portion of funds from the first prepaid gift account to the second prepaid gift account, deactivates the first prepaid gift account, and offers the second prepaid gift account for resale as a new prepaid gift to a person other than the owner. |
| US08528810B1 |
System and method for issuance, use, and replacement of multi-purpose devices
Systems and methods for issuance, use, and replacement of multi-purpose devices are disclosed. A method for providing a multi-purpose device for use with a plurality of systems may include (1) a first party assigning a first account number to the multi-purpose device, the first account number associated with a first account with the first party for use in a first system; (2) the first party assigning a second account number to the multi-purpose device, the second account number associated with a second account with a second party for use in a second system; and (3) the first party issuing the multi-purpose device to a customer. A system for using a multi-purpose device for use with a plurality of systems may include a first transaction system; a second transaction system, and a multi-purpose card issued by a first party that includes a first account number to the multi-purpose device, the first account number associated with a first account with the first party for use in the first transaction system; and a second account number to the multi-purpose device, the second account number associated with a second account with a second party for use in the second transaction system. |
| US08528809B2 |
Personal identification number input apparatus, control method for the same, and card processing system
Card data read by a card reader and a personal identification number inputted via an input unit are transmitted to an information processing apparatus. A timer is made to start measuring a predetermined waiting time in accordance with a notification of completion of processing using the card data and the personal identification number from the information processing apparatus. A warning is given if a card loaded in the card reader is detected by a detection unit when the measurement of the waiting time by the timer is finished. |
| US08528805B2 |
Method and apparatus providing fine alignment of a structure relative to a support
A method for fine positioning a component through the use of fusible elements having two or more melting points so as to establish intermediate displacements between totally melted fusible elements and unmelted fusible elements. Because of the use of non-eutectic fusible materials, fine adjustments in the displacement may be achieved. |
| US08528801B2 |
Film storage box
Provided is a film storage box, more particularly, a wrap film storage box in which a grip member for lifting the edge portion of a film is lifted in advance, the lift is maintained for a long period, and the grip member is highly durable against damage. The film storage box (or the wrap film storage box) is characterized in that the grip member is formed over the entire width of the front plate of the film storage box and is lifted in a curved shape by using a repulsive force generated by adhering an edge fold strip provided at the upper end edge of the front plate to the rear surface of the front plate, and durability is imparted by employing portions of the fold lines of the both side faces of the front plate as the both side portions of the grip member. |
| US08528797B2 |
Rescue device for rescuing a child
A rescue device is disclosed for rescuing a child from a life threatening situation. The device includes a container for the reception therein of the child. A cover cooperates with the container such that when the child has been placed within the container, the container and the cover cooperate together to define a safe enclosure for the evacuation of the child from the life threatening situation. |
| US08528794B2 |
Pressurized pack for viscous materials
The invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing an adhesive or sealant from a vessel, in particular from a pressurized vessel, via a valve. For this purpose, the dispenser is equipped with a lever with a grip region for actuating the valve. The dispenser also has an attachment, on which the lever is fitted in a pivotable manner, and an actuator with a supporting region for the lever. The actuator is configured such that it can be rotated relative to the attachment, and the supporting region is therefore variable, in order to change the effective lever path for the actuation of the valve, for activating or deactivating the dispenser or for varying the volume flow as product is dispensed. |
| US08528789B2 |
Semi-circular liquid dispenser with a rotatable casing
A container for a liquid, in particular, a high-value liquid in a small quantity such as a perfume is disclosed. The container comprises a reservoir (12) within which a liquid can be contained. A dispenser (24), typically a pump dispenser, is carried on a neck (20) of a filling opening of the reservoir (12) thereby sealing the reservoir. The dispenser can dispense a quantity of liquid from the reservoir (12) on operation of a trigger. A casing (32) is also carried on the reservoir (12). The casing (32) and the reservoir (12) can be mutually rotated between a closed condition and an open condition. In the closed condition, the casing prevents access to the trigger and the reservoir predominantly projects from the casing, and in the open condition, the trigger can be operated and the reservoir (12) is substantially received within the casing (32). |
| US08528788B2 |
Dispenser for fluid to pasty masses
The invention relates to a dispenser (1) for fluid to paste-like matters (M), having a pump chamber (20) comprising at least one outlet valve (28), a storage chamber (2), and a flow path (2) connecting the storage chamber (2) to the outlet valve (28), wherein a transport safeguard device is provided in order to avoid a discharge of the matter during transport. In order to advantageously configure a dispenser of the type in question with respect to the transport safeguard device, the invention provides that the flow path (W) to the transit safeguard device can be locked. |
| US08528778B2 |
Resealable moisture tight container assembly for strips and the like having a lip snap seal
A substantially moisture tight container and lid assembly for storing and packaging moisture-sensitive items comprising an assembly with a container and a lid, the lid is attached by a hinge to an upper housing portion of the container, the lid includes a lip seal member that depends downwardly from the lid, the lip seal member is configured to abut at least a portion of the interior side of the container when the lid is in the closed position resulting in a substantially moisture tight seal between the lid and the lid, and the container assembly further comprising a base portion and an upper housing portion, the upper housing portion is capable of being snap-fit into the base portion by employing a lip seal mechanism to form a substantially moisture-tight seal. |
| US08528775B2 |
Container assembly
A spice rack assembly includes a rack and at least one container that is magnetically coupled to the rack. The at least one container comprises a body and a lid. The body comprises a sidewall and a bottom, wherein the sidewall circumscribes the bottom. The lid is coupled to the body such that a cavity is defined by an inner surface of the lid, an inner surface of the sidewall, and an inner surface of the bottom. The container sidewall comprises an opening extending therethrough in flow communication with the cavity. |
| US08528774B2 |
Fuel cooler assembly
A fuel cooler assembly formed in accordance with the present disclosure includes an outer tank shell, an inner tank shell disposed within the outer tank shell, and an access opening defined in the inner tank shell at a first location on the fuel tank. A fuel return cavity is defined between the inner and outer tanks shells, which is in fluid communication with the access opening. A fuel return opening is formed within the outer tank shell, which is in fluid communication with the fuel return cavity at a second location on the fuel tank. |
| US08528771B2 |
Angled piercing fliptop closure
The invention closures that opens sealed containers and close such containers thereafter and method of using the same. |
| US08528769B1 |
Lifter apparatus and method
A lift apparatus and method include, in a structure with a lid, a lift arm connected with the lid and with a lift pivot. A movement arm with a flexible connection with a first end and a second end is provided where the first end of the flexible connection is connected with the lift arm and where the second end of the flexible connection is connected with the movement arm. And an actuator is connected with the movement arm for selected movement of the arm and thus the lid. |
| US08528768B2 |
Recloseable lid for a container, in particular for a paper cup
The invention is directed to a lid for a container, in particular to a lid for a drink container such as a paper cup. The lid is detachably mountable onto the edge of an opening of the container. The lid comprises a lower lid part with an inner outlet opening, and an upper lid part with an outer outlet opening. In an assembled position, the upper lid part is mounted rotatable relative to the lower lid part between at least two positions, such that the outlet openings are mutually aligned in one position and are without any overlap in the other position. The lower lid part has a circumferential mounting flange for overlapping the opening edge of the container, and the upper lid part has a circumferential mounting flange for overlapping the mounting flange of the lower lid part. |
| US08528767B2 |
Hydraulic reservoir pressure relief mechanism
An exemplary hydraulic reservoir includes a reservoir tank having an interior cavity for retaining a fluid and an aperture fluidly connecting the interior cavity to an exterior region of the reservoir. A cover selectively engages the reservoir tank, and is movable between an open position, wherein the fluid path through the aperture in the reservoir tank is at least partially open, and a closed position, wherein the fluid path through the aperture is substantially closed. The hydraulic reservoir further includes a pressure relief mechanism having at least one pressure responsive fastener for releasably connecting the cover to the reservoir tank. The at least one pressure responsive fastener includes a fastener fixed for concurrent movement with one of the cover and the reservoir tank, and a biasing member operably connecting the fastener to whichever of the cover and reservoir tank is not fixed for concurrent movement with the fastener. |
| US08528757B2 |
Cap for container provided with guarantee seal
A cap is provided with a guarantee seal. The guarantee seal has guarantee portions which have an engagement portion and a connecting portion. The seal further has bridges for connecting adjacent guarantee portions to one another and a safety portion that makes the engagement portion integral with the handling portion. The safety portion is structurally suitable for keeping the engagement portion constrained in the broken seal configuration, for preventing the forming of dangerous spikes. |
| US08528754B2 |
Saw horse
The patent application relates to a saw horse having at least two stand elements, each stand element (1) having a base (4) and two vertical braces (2) which in each case leave an interspace (5) between one another for accommodating wood (21) to be sawed or the like, and which project upwardly from the base (4). One vertical brace (2) of one stand element (1) is connected to a vertical brace (2) of the other stand element (1) via a connecting element (6) in such a way that the interspaces (5) of the two stand elements (1) are aligned with one another in an operating position in which the connecting elements (6) extend parallel to one another. In order to achieve a refinement that is advantageous for use, it is proposed that the connecting elements (6) are pivotably secured to the vertical braces (2) so that the saw horse may be folded up in a parallelogram-like manner from its operating position, in which the connecting elements (6) are spaced at a maximum distance from one another, into a storage position in which the connecting elements (6) are spaced at a minimum distance from one another. |
| US08528749B2 |
Free-standing storage rack for one or more bicycles
The free-standing bicycle rack includes a base having at least two legs, a vertical support member projecting from the base, and a hook attached to the vertical support member for holding the wheel of a bicycle, such that the bicycle is stored in a vertical orientation. The bicycle rack is readily expandable to accommodate different numbers of bicycles, and the hook may be repositioned to different heights to accommodate bicycles of different sizes. |
| US08528742B2 |
Package-culling conveyor system and method
A package-culling conveyor system and a method for culling flat packages from a bulk flow of flat and non-flat packages. The conveyor system includes a tilted conveyor belt that conveys flat packages along its length while non-flat packages tumble off its lower side edge to initially cull flat packages from a bulk flow of packages. Retention means, such as a high-friction outer conveying surface or a raised barrier along the length of the outer conveying surface of the tilted conveyor belt, holds flat packages on the tilted conveyor belt. The initially separated packages are more fully culled in a conveyor comprising a roller conveyor belt with package-supporting belt rollers rotated in a direction to push packages sidewise toward a culling element that extends along the length of the roller conveyor belt. Examples of culling elements include powered rollers and vertical walls forming side guards. The powered roller lifts the contact side of non-flat packages to free flat packages underneath. The belt rollers push the flat packages under the culling elements and off the side of the roller belt. The culling elements block the non-flat packages from exiting laterally off the side of the roller belt so that they are conveyed off the exit end of the roller belt separate from the flat packages. |
| US08528740B2 |
Methods to recover and purify silicon particles from saw kerf
The present disclosure generally relates to methods for recovering silicon from saw kerf, or an exhausted abrasive slurry, resulting from the cutting of a silicon ingot, such as a single crystal or polycrystalline silicon ingot. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to methods for isolating and purifying silicon from saw kerf or the exhausted slurry, such that the resulting silicon may be used as a raw material, such as a solar grade silicon raw material. |
| US08528732B2 |
Container
A container for transportation and/or storage of items is in the form of an enclosure having a securing arrangement with an upright restraint configured to be advanced and retracted across the width of the container for holding the items in an upright orientation; and/or access to the enclosure provided through an uppermost portion and end portion of the container, and a movable side panel proximate an end of the container; and/or spaced slide elements extending in the direction of the width of the container, in the region of the bottom of the container. |
| US08528730B2 |
Packaging and dispensers for adhesive backed elements
An element dispensing package suitable for dispensing adhesive strips or bandages. Each element is contained within an envelope formed by opposed upper and lower sheets. The lower sheet has a release liner secured thereto to protect the element while it is within the dispenser. The element is releasably secured to a first tab and is separated from the package when the envelope is opened. The first tab has one or more gripping means to facilitate dispensing of the element contained within the package. Additionally, the upper sheet and the lower sheet have optional gripping means (e.g., a second tab) to facilitate dispensing of the element contained within the package. |
| US08528729B2 |
Light-weight golf bag capable of being dismantled
A light weight golf bag fabricated from a sheet of low-cost polymer film or sheet is described. Although the bag may weigh as little as one pound, it is strong and durable, and sufficiently sturdy to be freestanding, self-supporting, and to contain golf clubs. Embodiments of the golf bag may readily be assembled and disassembled. |
| US08528727B2 |
Shaft-hub assembly with expansion element
A conveying system has a roller and a shaft-hub assembly with a kingpin (81), an expansion element (83) and a hub (82). The kingpin has a cross-section corresponding to a cross-section of the hub so that the kingpin is fixed radially to the hub. The kingpin (81) is fixed rotationally to the hub (82). The expansion element in a relaxed state, has an external diameter that exceeds the internal diameter of the hub. The expansion element also is deformed elastically when the kingpin is disposed in the hub so that the external peripheral region (831) of the expansion element shifts from the relaxed position. Axial displacement of the external peripheral region of the expansion element is coupled with a reduction in the external diameter so that the reduced external diameter of the expansion element corresponds to the internal diameter of the corresponding internal peripheral region of the hub. |
| US08528723B1 |
Plow for a conveyor belt
A plow for a conveyor belt for efficiently removing debris from the return portion of the conveyor belt. The plow for a conveyor belt generally includes a frame having a pair of front plow blades, wherein the pair of front plow blades define a V-shape oriented toward an upstream direction of travel with respect to the conveyor belt. The frame also generally includes a pair of pivotal wings each including a rear plow blades. A support bracket extends forwardly from the frame to secure the frame to a conveyor structure of the conveyor belt. At least one roller is rotatably connected to the frame and extends beyond a lower end of the plow blades to contact the conveyor belt and to maintain a separation between the plow blades and the conveyor belt as the roller(s) travels along the conveyor belt. |
| US08528722B2 |
Conveyor assembly and method for conveying a substrate carrier
A conveyor assembly suitable for use in a substrate processing system includes: at least one substrate carrier having a substrate-carrying surface configured to support at least one substrate; a processing track; a return track; a drive system configured to drive the substrate carrier along the processing track and the return track; and at least one swivel unit configured to pivot the substrate carrier around a substantially horizontal axis from a first orientation into a second orientation, and/or vice versa. Also provided is a method for conveying a substrate carrier including: providing a substrate carrier; positioning the substrate carrier in a first orientation; conveying the substrate carrier along a first track; and rotating the substrate carrier around a substantially horizontal axis into a second orientation. |
| US08528720B2 |
Shuttle conveyor, circuit-substrate working machine, and circuit-substrate working system
Utility of a circuit-substrate working machine including a substrate conveyor device and a shuttle conveyor designed to shift a circuit substrate in a direction intersecting a conveying direction is improved. Based on transmission of a deliverable-state advance notification signal for one of conveyor lanes of an upstream printer, a movable conveyor lane of an intermediate shuttle conveyor is moved to a position continuous to the one conveyor lane. The circuit substrate is delivered to the movable conveyor lane in a state in which the movable conveyor lane is located at a circuit-substrate receiving position, a receivable-state advance notification signal is produced for a receiving lane for receiving the circuit substrate supplied from one of conveyor lanes of a downstream printer which has transmitted a deliverable-state advance notification signal, and a receivable-state signal and a deliverable-state signal are obtained. The circuit substrate is then delivered to the receiving lane. |
| US08528719B2 |
Conveyor system
A conveyor system having at least one variable capacity storage for a bottle treatment machine, at least two guides running laterally adjacent and at least one transfer guide are provided for a bottle carrier chain of curve-going coupled bottle carriers, with runs of the bottle carrier chain being transferable from one guide to the adjacent guide via the transfer guide are drivable along the guides. Each of the guides comprises at least one tension member drivable by at least one conveyor drive of the conveyor system, and a respective run of the automatically guided bottle carrier chain is arranged a certain distance along a tension member, separated there from the tension member by an air gap and is driven and guided by the respective tension member by a plurality of magnetic couplings which in the area of the transfer guide are automatically releasable and engageable. |
| US08528717B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus including a pallet configured to receive a print substrate, a conveyer system configured to convey the pallet, and a plurality of work mechanisms arranged along a pallet conveying direction of the conveyer system. The work mechanisms are configured to conduct processing operations to the print substrate. The conveyer system includes an upper conveyer mechanism configured to sequentially convey the pallet to respective working positions of the work mechanisms, and a lower conveyer mechanism arranged below and along the upper conveyer mechanism. The lower conveyer mechanism is configured to convey the pallet in a direction opposite to the pallet conveying direction of the upper conveyer mechanism so that the conveyer system is structured to have an upper stage and a lower stage. |
| US08528716B2 |
Device for connecting a chain to a step or a pallet of a passenger conveying installation
A device for connecting a chain, which is actively connected to a roller, to a step or a pallet of an escalator or a moving walkway, respectively. The chain has a roller side and a step or pallet side. The device includes a hollow stud disposed on the roller side and a cylindrical shoulder disposed on the step or pallet side. The hollow stud has a clearance to receive the cylindrical shoulder. A slide bearing is arranged at least radially between a circumferential surface of the hollow stud defining the clearance and an outer circumferential surface of the shoulder. |
| US08528714B2 |
Clutch arrangement, in particular wet-running dual clutch arrangement
A clutch arrangement of disc-type design, which has two clutch parts that have at least one element which forms a surface of a friction pairing and which bears friction surfaces. The clutch parts can be operatively connected to one another by an actuating device, which has a pressure element. The actuating force, which acts on the clutch parts, is supported centrally on a support surface which is situated opposite the effective piston surface and which is aligned in the direction of the piston surface. The final element, which forms a surface of a friction pairing, in the line of action of the actuating force has a thickness which is smaller than the thickness of the other elements. |
| US08528704B2 |
Bed castor and brake assembly
A pedal (10) is formed from a single molding and includes first and second arms (12, 14), each provided with an over molded marker (16, 18). The pedal (10) has two fittings (20, 22) for coupling with a brake actuator rod (24) and a coupling member (26) respectively. A castor (40) includes a wheel (42) which can rotate about a bushing (44) and a coupling shaft (46). Within the shaft (46) there is provided a brake mechanism for locking the wheel (42). A base frame (80) for a bed includes longitudinal and transverse struts (52, 54) arranged in a rectangular form, with four castors (40) and four associated pedal assemblies (10). Two actuator rods (24) are provided, one for each pair of opposing pedal assemblies (10), while two connecting elements (26) are provided, one for each pair of side-by-side pedal assemblies (10). All the pedals and thus all the brake mechanisms are coupled to one another through the two actuator rods (24) and two coupling elements (26). When one pedal (10) is actuated all the castors will either be locked or will all be released by a single operation. |
| US08528695B1 |
Ladder safety systems
A ladder apparatus and system relating to detachably securing a ladder to linear, or non-linear, structures such as, for example, a tree, a telephone pole, a building pillar, etc., thereby assisting preventing the ladder from lateral movement. The system provides for width, depth and angle adjustment to assist clasping to different structural support geometries being attached thereto. |
| US08528691B1 |
Silencer for firearm
Method and apparatus for a silencer for use on a conventional firearm wherein the silencer has a monolithic core which is machined from a single piece of metal or the like. The core is mounted in a tubular cover on the barrel of the firearm in the conventional manner. The silencer has a plurality of baffles which are disposed at opposite acute angles measured from a perpendicular line to the longitudinal axis of the silencer so that the baffles are disposed in an opposite configuration. Each of the baffles has serrated faces on both faces of the baffle and is supported by a rib disposed on the lateral midline of each baffle. |
| US08528688B2 |
Lock device and electric power steering system
A lock device that restricts movement of a movable body includes: a lock member that is engageable with an engagement portion formed at the movable body; an urging member that urges the lock member in a direction away from the engagement portion; and an actuator that moves the lock member toward the engagement portion to engage the lock member with the engagement portion against an urging force generated by the urging member. |
| US08528684B2 |
Charge pressure reduction circuit for improved transmission efficiency
A charge pressure reduction circuit for a loader backhoe in which a directional control valve causes the charge pump to operate at a system pressure high enough to adequately supply a clutch circuit when conditions indicate the vehicle is operating in a loader or transport mode. The directional control valve causes the charge pump to operate at a lower pressure as, for example, required for a lubrication circuit when conditions indicate the vehicle is in a backhoe operating mode. |
| US08528679B2 |
Air separating intake scoop for air intake system
An air intake system for a vehicle includes a grille disposed at a forward end of the vehicle for admitting airflow into an engine compartment of the vehicle and a scoop having a ramped surface for directing at least a portion of the airflow admitted through the grille upward toward an air intake of the vehicle. The ramped surface has an aperture defined therein for removing entrained particles from the portion of the airflow directed upward by the ramped surface. |
| US08528677B2 |
Working vehicle having cooling system
A cooling assembly is provided for use in a work vehicle. The cooling assembly may comprise a heat exchanger for transferring energy in the form of heat from a coolant fluid to air passing through the heat exchanger, filter structure positioned adjacent a first side of the heat exchanger to filter the air before the air passes through the heat exchanger, and a fan shroud positioned adjacent a second side of the heat exchanger. |
| US08528675B2 |
Electrical cabinet
An electric drive work vehicle is provided having a chassis, at least one power distribution system, and a cabinet that houses the at least one power distribution system. The cabinet may be mounted atop the chassis to shield the cabinet and its contents from ground water and debris. |
| US08528669B2 |
Earth removal member with features for facilitating drill-through
An earth removal member for drilling a wellbore with casing or liner includes a tubular body and a head. The head is fastened to or formed with an end of the body, has a face and a side, is made from a high strength material, and has a port formed through the face. The earth removal member further includes a blade. The blade is formed on the head, extends from the side and along the face, and is made from the high strength material. The earth removal member further includes cutters disposed along the blade; and a nozzle adapter. The nozzle adapter has a port formed therethrough, is longitudinally and rotationally coupled to the head, and is made from a drillable material. The earth removal member further includes a nozzle disposed in the adapter port and fastened to the nozzle adapter. |
| US08528666B1 |
Method and apparatus for disposal of cuttings
A method and apparatus for disposing of drill cuttings 500 from an oil and/or gas well drilling platform 510, comprising (a) transporting the drill cuttings 520 to a cuttings collection area 530 on the platform 510; (b) providing a barge 10, the barge 10 having at least one storage area 30, a cover 100 operably connected to the at least one storage area 30, and covering the at least one storage area 30; (c) placing the cover 100 in a first open state so that cuttings 500 can be placed in the at least one storage area 30; (d) transporting the drill cuttings 500 from the cuttings collection area 530 to the at least one storage area of the barge 10; (e) placing the cover 100 in a closed state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 of the barge 10 are contained; (f) transporting the barge 10 from the drilling platform 510 to a collection site 540; (g) placing the cover 100 in a second open state so that the cuttings 520 in the storage area 30 can be removed; and (h) removing the cuttings 520 from the storage area 30. |
| US08528665B2 |
Drilling waste management system
A mobile drilling waste management system including a trailer having at least one centrifuge and a solids catch tank receiving solids separated from drilling fluid by one or more of the centrifuges. And a method of reclaiming drilling fluid including pumping drilling fluid contaminated with solids onto a trailer, separating the contaminant solids from the drilling fluid with at least one centrifuge located on the trailer, directing the contaminant solids to a solids catch tank located on the trailer, and pumping the drilling fluid off of the trailer. |
| US08528662B2 |
Position indicator for drilling tool
A position indicator for use in a dowhole tool and method for use is provided. The position indicator has a sensor that detects the position of a portion of the tool as the tool rotates. The sensor sends a signal to a controller to relay the position of the tool to a controller and/or operator. The rotational position of the tool may be controlled in order to perform downhole operations. |
| US08528661B2 |
Drill bit with electrical power generation devices
A drill bit made according to one embodiment includes a first member including one of a magnet and a coil, and a second member that moves relative to the first member, the second member including the other of the magnet and the coil, wherein the relative motion causes the generation of an electrical charge in the coil. |
| US08528660B2 |
System and method for safe well control operations
A system and method for safely controlling a well being drilled or that has been drilled into a subterranean formation in which a conventional blow-out preventer operates to close the well bore to atmosphere upon the detection of a fluid influx event. Fluid pressures as well as fluid flow rates into and out of the well bore are measured and monitored to more accurately and confidently determine the fracture pressure and pore pressure of the formation and perform well control operations in response to a fluid influx event. During a suspected fluid influx event, one or more of the fluid flow and pressure measurements are used to confirm the fluid influx event and to safely regain well control by circulating the fluid influx out of the well through a choke line while maintaining the pressure inside the well between specified, selected limits, such as between the fracture and pore pressures. |
| US08528654B2 |
Anti-piracy system and method
An anti-piracy system for a vessel produces a non-lethal all of water along the side of the vessel to wash away a pirate. A cylindrical cap has a top, a bottom edge, a hollow interior, and an outside surface. A slit is defined within the outside surface forming a partial opening within the cap from the interior to the outside surface. A threaded hose fitting is formed within the interior, wherein the cap can be secured to a fire suppression node on the vessel with the downward face positioned over a side of the vessel for forcibly dispersing water through the slit downward over the side of the vessel. The cap is positioned near the deck of the vessel, just over the side of the vessel such that upon activation of the tire suppression system the water is directed downward over the side of the vessel. |
| US08528652B2 |
Fire extinguishing ball
The fire extinguishing ball includes an outer ball cage, an inner ball cage freely rotatable within the outer ball cage about one axis, and an internal fire extinguishing assembly carried by the inner ball cage and freely rotatable therein about a different axis. The internal fire extinguishing assembly includes a hollow ball-shaped body containing compressed gas and fire extinguishing agents. A valve assembly attached to the top of the body permits refilling of the body and dispersion of the contents during operation. The internal fire extinguishing assembly is connected to the inner ball cage so that the valve assembly will be disposed on top when the fire extinguishing ball is at rest. The ball can be tossed or rolled towards fires in difficult to reach areas. Exposure to heat opens the valve in the valve assembly to thereby disperse the contents of the body and extinguish the flames. |
| US08528651B2 |
Apparatus and method for directionally disposing a flexible member in a pressurized conduit
An apparatus and method for directionally disposing an elongated flexible member in a pressurized conduit, including inserting a bent end portion of an elongated hollow body through an opening in fluid communication with a well valve and defined by a pressurized conduit, the bent end portion being disposed in a pre-determined direction and location within the pressurized conduit; inserting a lead portion of an elongated flexible member into a fluid passageway defined by a primary valve, the fluid passageway of the primary valve being in sealed fluid relationship with the elongated hollow body which, in turn, is in sealed fluid relationship with the pressurized conduit, wherein the lead portion of the elongated flexible member is inserted through the bent end portion and into the pressurized conduit by a pre-determined distance; and retaining in place the inserted elongated flexible member which is directionally disposed in the pressurized conduit. |
| US08528649B2 |
Hydraulic pulse valve with improved pulse control
Hydraulic pulses are produced each time that a pulse valve interrupts the flow of a pressurized fluid through a conduit. The pulse valve includes an elongate housing having an inlet configured to couple to the conduit to receive the pressurized fluid, and an outlet configured to couple to one or more tools. In the housing, a valve assembly includes a poppet reciprocating between open and closed positions, and a poppet seat, in which the poppet closes to at least partially block the flow of pressurized fluid through the valve. A pilot within the poppet moves between disparate positions to modify fluid paths within the valve. When the valve is open, a relatively lower pressure is produced by a Venturi effect as the fluid flows through a throat in the poppet seat, to provide a differential pressure used to move the pilot and poppet. An optional bypass reduces the pulse amplitude. |
| US08528644B2 |
Apparatus and method for milling casing in jet drilling applications for hydrocarbon production
An apparatus and method for improving control over the milling force applied to a milling bit that is turned through a rotary drive to form a hole in a wellbore casing. A bit-weighting sub is applied between the tubing used to lower the rotary drive's motor into the wellbore and the rotary drive itself, the sub serving to take the weight of the tubing off the rotary drive when the motor lands in operative connection with the drive, and further serving to apply a known milling force to the drive (and thus to the bit) independent of the weight of the tubing. In a preferred form the sub includes a spring that is compressed against the drive when the tubing and motor are landed. |
| US08528642B2 |
Well completion for viscous oil recovery
Described is a well completion for evenly distributing a viscosity reducing injectant (e.g. steam and/or solvent, e.g. in SAGD or CSS) into a hydrocarbon reservoir (e.g. of bitumen), for evenly distributing produced fluids (most specifically vapor influx) and for limiting entry of particulate matter into the well upon production. On injection, the injectant passes through a limited number of slots in a base pipe, is deflected into an annulus between the base pipe and a screen or the like, and passes through the screen into the reservoir. On production, hydrocarbons pass from the reservoir through the screen into a compartmentalized annulus. The screen limits entry of particulate matter (e.g. sand). The hydrocarbons then pass through the slots in the base pipe and into the well. Where a screen is damaged, the compartmentalization and the slots in the base pipe limit particulate matter entry into the well. |
| US08528639B2 |
Method for accelerating start-up for steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) operations
A method for accelerating start-up for steam assisted gravity drainage operations comprising the steps of: forming a steam-assisted gravity drainage production well pair comprising an injection well and a production well within a formation; beginning a pre-soaking stage by soaking one or both of the wellbores of the well pair with a solvent; beginning a pre-heating stage by heating the wellbores of the well pair; beginning a squeezing stage by injecting steam into the wellbores of the well pair; and beginning steam-assisted gravity drainage production. |
| US08528635B2 |
Tool to determine formation fluid movement
The present disclosure relates to one or more apparatuses and methods to determine fluid movement within a formation. The apparatus includes a first packer configured to selectively engage a wall of a borehole of the formation, an outlet disposed adjacent to the first packer, wherein the outlet is configured to pump a first fluid therefrom and into the formation, and a detecting tool configured to detect the first fluid within the formation. Movement of the first fluid may be determined based upon the detection of the first fluid within the formation. |
| US08528634B2 |
Method of improving oil recovery from an oil reservoir using an enriched anaerobic steady state microbial consortium
The present disclosure relates to developing an enriched steady state microbial consortium capable of modifying crude oil components of an oil reservoir under anaerobic denitrifying conditions. The steady state consortium may be used to improve oil recovery. |
| US08528633B2 |
Dissolvable tool and method
A method of dissolving a tool includes positioning the tool within an environment reactive with at least a portion of the tool, and introducing the environment below a surface of the tool through at least one perforation formed therein. The method also includes reacting at least a portion of the tool exposed to the environment through the at least one perforation, weakening the tool to mechanical stress, and fracturing the tool. |
| US08528630B2 |
Through tubing cable rotary system
Methods and apparatus, for performing rotary, cutting and/or crushing operations in a subterranean borehole or conduit thereof, which use higher and lower pressures therein to operate a motor, actuator and/or piston, particularly for sealing operations using a downhole assembly, placeable with a cable. The downhole assembly comprises at least a motor or actuator coupled to at least one of a rotary tool, axial cutting tool and/or packer or piston. The motor or actuator piston may be operated by differential fluid pressure across ends thereof, to form a space free of debris that may be provided for placement of a settable sealing material to prevent leakage paths in the concrete seal of said subterranean borehole or conduits thereof. |
| US08528621B2 |
Solar window shade
A solar window shade includes a frame for supporting louvers for shading at least one window of a building. Preferably, the frame is pivotally connected to the building above the window, and a frame drive system selectively pivots the frame upwardly or downwardly in accordance with the elevation of the sun. A louver drive system rotates the louvers within the frame to track east-to-west movements of the sun. The louvers are preferably provided as outer and inner louvers interlaced with each other, and such louvers nest with one another when the sun is hidden, or approaches from an acute angle, to maximize passage of indirect light rays to light the interior, while minimizing obstruction of the view through the window. The device is modular and is easily applied to aligned rows of windows and/or windows on multi-story buildings, with central control of the associated frame drive and louver drive systems. |
| US08528617B2 |
Method and apparatus for making article having side seams
A method for forming an undergarment comprises cutting a web to form a pre-form comprising transverse edges and two longitudinal edges, each longitudinal edge having two waist sections and a crotch section located intermediate the waist sections, a sealing area located adjacent and inboard of each waist section, and transferring the pre-form to a processing wheel. The method further comprises gripping the pre-form adjacent each waist section with grippers in four gripping areas, each gripping area located near a respective sealing area, jointly rotating the grippers that hold the gripping areas in the region of one of the transverse edges around at least one hinging axis to place the transverse edge generally parallel and opposite to the second transverse edge, superimposing the sealing areas in a contacting relationship, joining the superimposed sealing areas, thus forming the undergarment, and releasing the undergarment from the grippers. |
| US08528616B2 |
Adhesive tape application device
The invention relates to an adhesive tape application device for applying an adhesive tape section to an object, wherein the adhesive tape application device is designed for pulling an adhesive tape end from a supply of adhesive tape and applying said adhesive tape end to the object as an adhesive tape section by a relative motion of a movable portion and a stationary portion arranged on the object, comprising an application device, wherein the application device is designed and/or arranged for pressing the adhesive tape section against the object in an application position of the application device, wherein the application device is designed and/or arranged for performing a superimposed rotational-linear and/or swivelling-linear movement in the adhesive tape application device. |
| US08528611B2 |
Tire inflation system with parallel pump
A vehicle tire inflation system includes an air supply that is connected to a vehicle tire by a pneumatic conduit. A pump that is independent of and pneumatically parallel to the vehicle air supply includes an inlet and an outlet. The pump inlet receives air from atmosphere, the pump compresses the air, and the pump outlet is fluidly connected to the pneumatic conduit. When the air pressure in the pneumatic conduit drops below a predetermined level, compressed air from the pump is introduced into the pneumatic conduit, thus increasing the air pressure in the conduit to increase the air pressure that is available to the tire. A reservoir tank, which is also independent of the vehicle air supply, may be in fluid communication with the pump outlet and the pneumatic conduit. |
| US08528606B1 |
Apparatus and methods for filling containers with non-liquids
In some embodiments, apparatus useful for filling non-liquid material into a container includes first and second front and rear grippers that are each non-manually laterally movable between at least first and second positions. |
| US08528605B2 |
Method of producing a coating composition
A method of producing a coating composition in an in-store tinting machine comprising the steps of selecting a base paint, adding at least one additive to the base paint, adding at least one colorant to the base paint, the at least one colorant being selected from a range of colorants in the in-store tinting machine, mixing the base paint, the at least one colorant, and the at least one additive so as to produce a coating composition, in which the additive is not a base paint or a colorant from the range of colorants in the in-store tinting machine. |
| US08528600B2 |
Hydraulic valve
The invention relates to a hydraulic valve comprising a body in which a bore is formed in order to receive a sleeve that includes sealing seats that cooperate with a wall of the bore to define hydraulically isolated chambers that are connected to hydraulic ports in the body, the sleeve including connection holes in order to connect at least certain chambers with the inside of the sleeve and receiving a movable element that is slidable between two end positions in order to slide in leaktight manner against an inside wall of the sleeve, wherein the sleeve includes at least one regulator hole that opens out inside the sleeve in such a manner as to be the first bore to be uncovered or the last bore to be blocked by one of the fitted portions of the movable element when said element slides from one position to another, said fitted portion having at least one face portion that presents a setback that passes over the regulator hole. |
| US08528591B2 |
Micro valve, method for producing a micro valve, as well as micro pump
A micro valve includes a first valve chamber and a second valve chamber as well as a closing element, which is adjustable between an opening position, in which the valve chambers are connected to each other, and a closing position in which the valve chambers are separated from each other. A reference chamber is provided, which is delimited by the closing element. |
| US08528588B2 |
Safety valve drive system
A safety valve drive system is operated such that a safety valve of a nuclear power plant is opened by supplying a driving gas by using a pilot valve at an occurrence of an accident or a transient state to thereby protect a reactor against pressure application. The safety valve drive system is provided with a safety valve drive unit, as a function of actuating the safety valve, and cables. The safety valve drive unit actuates in a manner that the safety valve is opened in response to respective auto-depressurization system actuating signals for two or more segments among respective auto-depressurization system actuating signals for four segments, and is closed if an auto-depressurization system actuating signal for one or less segment among the auto-depressurization system actuating signals for the four segments is received. The cables are connected to the safety valve drive unit and used to transfer the auto-depressurization system actuating signals for the four segments. |
| US08528587B2 |
Two plate manifold with crossovers
A manifold includes first and second plates secured together at an inner face of each plate. A plurality of chambers and passages are in the inner faces of the plates and at least one port on an outer face of each plate connected to one of the chambers and passages. A crossover element in the inner face of the first plate separates a chamber or passage in the first plate from a chamber or passage in the second plate in the crossover area where the chambers or passages cross. |
| US08528586B2 |
Assembly including tap and protective cap, and bottle including such assembly
The invention relates to an assembly including a tap for controlling fluid under pressure and a protective cap mounted around said tap, the tap including at least one handling member that includes a lever pivotably connected to the body of the tap and manually actuatable by an operator between at least a first rest position adjacent to the body of the tap and a second active position shifted by a nonzero angle relative to the body of the tap, the cap defining an inner protective space for the tap and being provided with at least one first side opening that enables movement of the lever between the first and second positions, the lever in the second position thereof intercepting the plane of the first opening and optionally projecting beyond the space of the cap, and characterized in that, in the mounted position for the use thereof, the cap is turning, that is, freely movable in rotation relative to the body of the tap around an axis, and in that the portion of the cap defining the first opening has contact edges capable of coming into contact with the lever when the latter intercepts the plane of the first opening and in that the cap is set into rotation relative to the tap, the contact edges being oriented according to predetermined angles to exert force on the lever urging the latter towards the first position thereof. |
| US08528584B2 |
Device for driving a double seat valve
A drive device for a double seat valve having, between flow paths, a seat and first and second valve disks, where first, second and third pistons movable in a sealed manner by alternating pressure pulses for initiating an opening cycle and cleaning cycles of the valve disks each are provided in a drive device housing, where the pistons can be selectively connected with valve disk couple elements so as to transmit movements. Pressure transmission paths lead into the drive device housing to chambers defined by the pistons, the second piston being guided in a sealed manner separate from the first piston in the drive device housing, sealing areas of the first and second pistons define a first chamber in the drive device housing, and at least one pressure transmission path leads, for the cleaning cycle of the second valve disk, laterally and transversely to the common axis of the drive device housing and the valve chamber at least directly into the first chamber. |
| US08528581B2 |
Solenoid bypass for continuous operation of pneumatic valve
A solenoid valve assembly capable of providing a continuous flow of pressurized inert gas to operate a process tool without interruption. The valve assembly comprises a manifold that is internally fluidly connected to each of the internal pressure ports, the internal actuator port, and the internal relief port of each solenoid valve, and wherein the manifold comprises a dedicated external relief port for each of the solenoid valves, wherein the dedicated external relief port is in fluid communication with the internal relief port of the respective solenoid valve such that, when one of the solenoid valves is de-energized, a supply of a pressurized inert gas can be connected to the external relief port the supply pressure to a respective pneumatic valve operated by that solenoid valve. |
| US08528580B2 |
Pipes for transporting water containing chloramine
This invention is related to the preparation of polyethylene pipe resins suitable for transporting water containing chlorine. |
| US08528579B2 |
Multi-mode hands free automatic faucet
A faucet includes a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle. The logical control includes a mode controller that changes the faucet between a first mode and a second mode in response to substantially simultaneous touching of the spout and the handle. |
| US08528574B2 |
Device for controlling spray channels in dishwasher machines
A dishwasher machine with a compact device for spraying items to be rinsed is provided whereby the rinsing liquid is regularly sprayed in the rinsing container and the spray jets created by the spray device can be varied. To this end, the rinsing device comprises at least one spray channel which guides a rinsing liquid and comprises, on a side thereof facing the inside of the rinsing container, openings for the rinsing liquid and two open ends via which rinsing liquid can be supplied in a pressurized manner. At least one distributor is provided for regulating the supply of rinsing liquid to the spray channel in lieu of conventional mobile components such as spray arms, and various spray patterns can be produced by means of the distributor, improving the cleaning action of the dishwasher machine. |
| US08528573B2 |
Resilient claw hair clip
A hair clip has a body of a resilient material and first and second claws. The body has a dome shape and includes an outer perimeter, inner and outer surfaces, and a body plane defined generally by the perimeter. The body also includes a body axis generally central to the body and oriented generally perpendicular to the body plane. The first and second claws are coupled to and extend from the body in a generally axial direction relative to the body. The first and second claws are spaced from and generally opposite one another across the body. The hair clip is movable between an open and a closed position. In the open position, the body protrudes from the body plane in an inward axial direction and the first and second claws are separated from one another. In the closed position, portions of the first and second claws overlap one another. |
| US08528571B2 |
Hair extension assembly and method of application
A hair extension assembly includes an elongated base being sufficiently flexible to conform to the contours of the wearer's head and including an attachment assembly comprising a plurality of loops extending along one longitudinal side of the base. A collection of extension hair includes a plurality of supplemental strands secured to the base substantially opposite relative to the plurality of loops. As applied, the base and more specifically the plurality of loops are disposed in adjacent, substantially aligned relation to a hair part or seam formed in the natural hair of the wearer. A plurality of natural hair groupings are formed along one side of the seam and the plurality of loops are cooperatively disposed and dimensioned to facilitate passage of the hair groupings therethrough for attachment to one another thereby securing the base and the collection of extension hair in an intended position on the head of the wearer. |
| US08528569B1 |
Electronic cigarette with liquid reservoir
An electronic cigarette including an elongated housing that has a mouthpiece with an aerosol outlet, and an atomizer disposed within an atomizing chamber. The atomizer selectively generates an aerosol of the liquid in response to suction pressure at the aerosol outlet. The atomizing chamber has an air inlet, an atomizer outlet coupled to the aerosol outlet, and a first wick aperture. A liquid reservoir is disposed within the elongated housing, which is sealably separated from the atomizing chamber. A wick disposed through the first wick aperture between the liquid reservoir and the atomizing chamber and it is configured to transfer the liquid by capillarity from the liquid reservoir to the atomizer. |
| US08528564B2 |
Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems affecting both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula in the upper airway
Systems and methods resist posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula during sleep, thereby keeping an airway open. The systems and methods employ first, second, and third structures. The first structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a tongue. The second structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a region of a soft palate or uvula. The third structure is sized and configured for placement in or on tissue in a desired relationship. anterior of the first and second structures. The first and second structures each includes a ferromagnetic material. The third structure includes a magnetic material that magnetically interacts with both the first and second ferromagnetic materials by attracting both the first and second ferromagnetic materials, thereby resisting posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula. |
| US08528560B2 |
Filtering face-piece respirator having parallel line weld pattern in mask body
A respirator 10 that has a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that is joined to the harness 14. The mask body 12 includes a filtering structure 16 that may contain a plurality of layers of nonwoven fibrous material 58, 60, 62. The layers of nonwoven fibrous material 58, 60, 62 have a thickness A and are welded together by at least two parallel weld lines 34′, 34″ that are spaced at 0.5 to 6 times A. A mask body that uses parallel weld lines may exhibit better resistance to collapse and may be manufactured at faster speeds than similar structures which use single weld lines of comparable width. |
| US08528557B2 |
Continuous positive airway pressure device
A continuous positive airway pressure system features a housing forming an airway chamber, and an air pressure inlet and an air pressure outlet. The housing further defines internally a pair of tapered air jets, and a pair of tapered air receivers. The air receivers are located downstream of the air supply jets and disposed coaxially with respective ones of the air supply jets. Each receiver has a taper in an opposite direction to the direction of the taper of the air supply jets. A pair of nasal prongs is located downstream of the air receiving jets. |
| US08528553B2 |
Method and device for determining the PEEP during the respiration of a patient
The invention relates to a device for the automated determination of the PEEP of a patient. Said device comprises sensors and a suitable electronic system for determining a pressure-volume characteristic curve during a P/V maneuver. The electronic system is designed in such a way as to generate, specifically in terms of breathing pressure, the difference between “lung volume during exhalation (Vdef)” and “lung volume during inhalation (Vinf)”, and to determine the maximum value of said difference. The breathing pressure is then determined, for which the volume difference has a value defined in relation to the maximum value of the volume difference. The device calculates a PEEP value on the basis of said determined breathing pressure value. |
| US08528552B2 |
SPO2 control with adaptive linear compensation
A device and a process for controlling a respirator with inclusion of an oxygen saturation value (34) for compensating a device-dependent time response (15), a physiological time response (16) and a measuring method-dependent time response (17) are described. The device-dependent time response (15), the physiological time response (16) and the measuring method-dependent time response (17) are determined in a continuous sequence and a run time of a change in the oxygen concentration from the metering means (9) in the respirator to the patient (4) is determined and taken into account in regulating the oxygen concentration. |
| US08528548B2 |
Inhaler
An inhaler (1) is proposed for inhaling a preparation (2) from a carrier (3) and/or through a delivery channel (16) as depicted in exemplary FIG. 1. The carrier or delivery channel is preferably flexible, flat, band-shaped, strip-shaped, thread-like, blister-like and/or film-like and can be set in vibration by a stream of air (5). The carrier or delivery channel is preferably set in vibration by a separate element (6), which for its part is set in motion or vibration by the stream of air. Alternatively, or in addition, the inhaler has a pump (10) with a telescopic pump chamber (20) for generating a stream of air for expelling and/or dispersing a preparation. |
| US08528546B2 |
Monitoring device for a therapy device and process
A monitoring device for monitoring a therapy device, for example, an anesthesia device or a respirator, is provided by which an alarm device for triggering an alarm when the value drops beyond a warning limit (4) is automatically activated when a determined therapy parameter drops beyond this warning limit (4). The warning limit (4) is set automatically in this case. In addition, a therapy device monitored by the monitoring device and especially an anesthesia device as well as a respirator are provided. A process for triggering an alarm as well as a process for treating a patient is also provided. |
| US08528542B2 |
Heat exchanger having a vacuum tube
A heat exchanger comprises a vacuum tube with an outer wall. An inner tube can be filled with a heat-conducting fluid. The outer wall of the inner tube is situated concentric to a wall of the vacuum tube. At least one heat-conducting film is provided that joins said wall of the vacuum tube to the fluid-conducting tube system. A means which collects and concentrates solar energy is provided on the wall on the side of the vacuum tube facing away from the heat-conducting element. In addition, each heat-conducting element, while being pretensioned, presses against the wall of the vacuum tube and against the fluid-conducting tube system. |
| US08528536B2 |
Device and method for processing slabs of stone or stone-like materials
A device for processing a slab of stone or stone-like material, includes a support table, adapted for receiving the slab, and a fixed guide rail running in a first direction along a side of the support table. The device further includes an arm, extending in a cantilevered manner, in a second direction from the guide rail and across at least a portion of the support table. The arm is displaceable relative the guide rail in a third direction. A method for processing a slab of stone or stone-like material is also disclosed. |
| US08528531B2 |
Ignition apparatus of plasma jet ignition plug
A current of sufficient size to form plasma at ignition of a plasma jet ignition plug flows to a spark discharge gap while suppressing noise occurrence.There is provided an ignition apparatus of a plasma jet ignition plug, which includes a resistor R1, with one end connected to a diode D1 disposed between the plasma jet ignition plug 100 and a high-voltage generation circuit 210 and with the other end electrically connected to a center electrode 40 of the plasma jet ignition plug 100, and a capacitor C1, with one end connected to the center electrode 40 of the plasma jet ignition plug 100 and with the other end grounded. |
| US08528530B2 |
Diesel engine system and control method for a diesel engine system
A diesel engine system includes a cylinder, an exhaust manifold, an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) manifold, and a valve. The exhaust manifold is fluidly coupled with the cylinder and directs exhaust generated in the cylinder to an exhaust outlet that delivers the exhaust to an external atmosphere. The EGR manifold is fluidly coupled with the cylinder and recirculates the exhaust generated in the cylinder back to the cylinder as at least part of intake air that is received by the cylinder. The valve is disposed between the cylinder and the exhaust manifold and between the cylinder and the EGR manifold. The valve has a donating mode and a non-donating mode. The valve fluidly couples the cylinder with the EGR manifold when the valve is in the donating mode and fluidly couples the cylinder with the exhaust manifold when the valve is in the non-donating mode. |
| US08528525B2 |
Fuel injection controlling system of internal combustion engine
A fuel injection controlling system includes an accelerator manipulator. An accelerator manipulated variable detection sensor is configured to detect a manipulated variable of the accelerator manipulator. A rotation speed sensor is configured to detect a rotation speed of an engine. A throttle valve drive motor is configured to open and close the throttle valve in response to the manipulated variable. A controller is configured to control the throttle valve drive motor and to compute basic injection time (Ti) of fuel. A memory is configured to memorize, as a carbon adhesion judgment value (IXREF), a throttle opening degree (θTH) at a moment when a rotation speed (Ne) detected with the rotation speed sensor reaches a target idle rotation speed (NeIdle) by increasing the throttle opening degree (θTH). A corrector is configured to correct Ti with IXREF to correct an air-fuel ratio toward a leaner side as IXREF increases. |
| US08528515B2 |
Crankcase of internal combustion engine
A crankcase of an internal combustion engine with a reduced size for an oil pan. A crankcase is composed of an upper crankcase half and a lower crankcase half. A wall portion for defining a space X as a flow passage for a lubricating oil is formed below a journal bolt mounting surface of the lower crankcase half. A tool insertion hole for insertion of a tool for tightening a journal bolt is formed through the wall portion. |
| US08528508B2 |
Individual rocker shaft and pedestal mounted engine brake
A system for actuating an engine valve is disclosed. The system may include a lost motion housing having two spaced collars surrounding a rocker shaft. The lost motion housing may include an internal hydraulic circuit connecting a hydraulic fluid supply passage with an actuator piston. The system may include a means for securing the lost motion housing in a fixed position relative to the rocker shaft. |
| US08528507B2 |
Water pump of electromagnetic clutch type
A water pump of an electromagnetic clutch type, which feeds a coolant with pressure to a water jacket in an engine may include a belt pulley mounted at one end of a bearing shaft for being rotated on the bearing shaft by power transmitted through a belt, an impeller that is fixed to the other end of the bearing shaft, an electromagnetic actuator selectively supplying magnetic force, a clutch operating member movable along the bearing shaft to selectively engage the belt pulley with the bearing shaft by using the magnetic force of the electromagnetic actuator, and an elastic member exerting a force on the clutch operating member to support elastically the clutch operating member toward the belt pulley. |
| US08528506B2 |
Rotary internal combustion engine
A rotary internal combustion engine including: a cylinder having a cylinder circumferential wall provided with a horizontal valve groove on its inner circumferential surface; a working shaft concentrically run through said cylinder and held so as to freely rotate; a rotor comprising a rotor base made up of a circular shell and a rotor blade standing in a radial direction of a rotor base surrounding wall; a shutoff valve to perform intermittent movements of insertion and returning between an outside of said cylinder and a cylinder space; and side ribs each having a longitudinal valve groove. |
| US08528498B2 |
Integrated steerability array arrangement for minimizing non-uniformity
An integrated steerability array arrangement for managing plasma uniformity within a plasma processing environment to facilitate processing of a substrate is provided. The arrangement includes an array of electrical elements. The arrangement also includes an array of gas injectors, wherein the array of electrical elements and the array of gas injectors are arranged to create a plurality of plasma regions, each plasma region of the plurality of plasma regions being substantially similar. The arrangement further includes an array of pumps, wherein individual one of the array of pumps being interspersed among the array of electrical elements and the array of gas injectors. The array of pumps is configured to facilitate local removal of gas exhaust to maintain a uniform plasma region within the plasma processing environment. |
| US08528490B1 |
Biomass gasification system
A biomass gasification system for efficiently extracting heat energy from biomass material. The biomass gasification system includes a primary combustion chamber, a rotating grate within the primary combustion chamber for supporting the biomass during gasification, a feeder unit in communication with the primary combustion chamber for delivering biomass, a secondary combustion chamber fluidly connected to the primary combustion chamber, an oxygen mixer positioned between the primary combustion chamber and the secondary combustion chamber, a heat exchanger and an exhaust stack. |
| US08528487B2 |
System and method for operating a vehicle in multiple transportation networks
A system and method for operating a vehicle in multiple zones is disclosed. In one aspect, there is a vehicle for transporting a load comprising an energy storage device configured to receive and store energy originating from at least one of a power source and a linear motor and a motor configured to move the vehicle using energy delivered from the power source when energy from the power source is available for delivery, and further configured to move the vehicle using the energy stored in the energy storage device when the energy from the power source is unavailable for delivery, wherein the power source is located external to the vehicle and is stationary when the vehicle is in motion. |
| US08528482B2 |
Hybrid gas generator
A hybrid gas generator includes a high pressure gas cylinder and a gas release actuating device. The gas release actuating device includes a pyrotechnic gas cylinder, an igniting assembly, and a bursting disc. The pyrotechnic gas cylinder includes a guide ring securely disposed in the pyrotechnic gas cylinder to hermetically separate the space in the pyrotechnic gas cylinder into a gas releasing chamber and a firing chamber, a piercing plug fitted with the guide ring, where the gas releasing chamber is formed with at least a vent for releasing the gas stored in the high pressure gas cylinder, and the firing chamber may be provided with a gas producing medium to produce gas for driving the piercing plug when the igniting assembly is ignited. |
| US08528477B2 |
Inspection system for a sheet-fed recto-verso printing press
There is described a sheet inspection system for a sheet-fed recto-verso printing press of the type comprising two printing cylinders (10, 20) for carrying out simultaneous recto-verso printing of the sheets, said sheet inspection system comprising at least a first inspection device (100) for taking an image of a first side of the printed sheets. The first inspection device (100) comprises a first line image sensor (110) for performing line-scanning image acquisition of the first side of the printed sheets, and the first inspection device (100) is disposed in such a way that the first line image sensor visually acquires an image of a printed sheet while the said printed sheet is still adhering onto the surface of a first one (10) of the two printing cylinders (10, 20) of the printing press and immediately before the said printed sheet is transferred to a chain gripper system (5) of the printing press. Also described is a printing press equipped with the inspection system. |
| US08528475B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving veneer quality
A method and apparatus for improving of wood veneer quality is provided. In the method, veneers are conveyed through a compression gap made up by two press elements, the gauge of said gap being adjustable. The method comprises the use of an endless felt assembly, which is adapted to circle around at least one of the press elements and which passes through the compression gap in such a way that at least one face of the veneer is brought against the felt assembly in said compression gap. |
| US08528473B2 |
Sign press and method for assembling the same
A press and a method for assembling the same are provided. The press includes a first plate, a second plate, and a coupling portion. The first plate includes a first side, a second side, and a substantially convex surface extending therebetween. The convex surface includes a plurality of openings extending therethrough that provide a vacuum force. The second plate includes a first side, a second side, and a substantially flat surface extending therebetween. The coupling portion couples the first plate to the second plate such that the first side of the first plate and the first side of the second plate are substantially aligned. |
| US08528471B2 |
Dip and drain canister colander
The present invention relates to a new and improved colander, a kitchen utensil comprised for washing vegetables and fruits thorough and in larger quantity. The dip and drain canister colander comprising of perforated stainless steel wire, manufactured, is suitable for washing vegetables and fruits. The perforated holes are diamond shaped holes arranged in order, connected together being alike, that extents within the entire colander. The upright container is a four sided figure, a square base, the opening area is the same equivalent as the base. The colander has the quality of being deep, a distance between the top and base, a removable lid, a small knob centered on the outer surface of the lid and a pull on the upper back of the colander to clutch with hand. A thorough washing is attained by performing the Maneuver Techniques, which is done repeatedly until desirable results are achieved, with changing waters, the debris will diminish. |
| US08528470B2 |
Adding an additive to a product suitable for human consumption
A method for treating a product suitable for human consumption, for example, a meat product, such as slaughtered poultry or parts thereof, in which a large number of products are successively supplied, optionally in groups, to an inspection station in which each product is subjected to a visual inspection to detect a defect on the respective product. If a decision is made to provide a specific additive-addition treatment to a product, the product is supplied to an additive-addition station, where the product is subjected to an additive-addition treatment and an additive is added to at least one part of the outside of each product or the inside of each product. |
| US08528468B2 |
Method of preparing foam from a milk-based alimentary liquid and method for implementing the same
The invention concerns a method for preparing foam from a milk-based alimentary liquid, including the successive steps of: a) spacing a quantity of alimentary liquid in a container associated with stirring members; b) heating said quantity of alimentary liquid to bring it in proximity to a first desired temperature level while mechanically stirring it at a first stirring speed, lower than the foam creating speed, and c) stirring said quantity of liquid at a second stirring speed, sufficient to make said liquid foam. |
| US08528461B2 |
Force actuator
Actuator arrangements are disclosed. An actuator arrangement can include a first fluidic-based actuator device designed to exert a first force on a first location of a body associated with the first actuator device. An actuator arrangement can also include a second fluidic-based actuator device designed to exert a second force on a second location of the body associated with the first actuator device. The distance between the first and second locations can be small. The maximum value of the second force can be less than the maximum value of the first force. |
| US08528456B2 |
Coated textile sleeve and method of construction thereof
A textile sleeve and method of construction thereof is provided. The textile sleeve has a water-based, impervious coating for protecting elongate members contained within the sleeve. The sleeve has a flexible, tubular wall of tightly braided yarns with a coating applied thereto to render the wall impervious to fluid. The coating is a water-based coating applied as two distinct, first and second layers. The first, underlying layer includes a dielectric enhancing additive and a thickening agent to enhance the impermeability of the wall. The second, outer layer contains a similar formulation as the underlying first layer, however, it is free of the thickening agent. |
| US08528454B2 |
Counter-die cylinder for a stamping machine
Counter-die cylinder (1) for a machine for stamping laminar material, which comprises a cylindrical body (2) that rotates on its own axis, at least one tubular element (3), delimiting two opposite ends, which is arranged on the cylindrical body (2), and at least one shroud (4) arranged around the corresponding said tubular element (3), which further comprises movement means linked to the two opposite ends of the at least one tubular element for moving said tubular element in a longitudinal direction with respect to the axis of the cylindrical body, such that the position of the tubular element can vary along the length of the cylindrical body (2), said movement means being actuated by automated actuation means. In this way, the wear on the shrouds is reduced simply and automatically. |
| US08528452B2 |
Safety system and method for cutting machine
A safety system prevents cutting machine operators from being accidentally carried through the infeed chute into the machine's cutting mechanism. An operator wears a safety device on his wrist and/or ankle and a sensor array mounts on opposing sides of the cutting machine's infeed chute. The sensor array elements are wound in opposite directions and connect in series opposing. The magnetic field of the safety device induces a current in the sensor array as it moves in the proximity of the sensor array. The safety system generates a signal which is proportional to the sum of the induced currents. When the signal exceeds a threshold, the safety system shuts off power to the feed mechanism and/or the cutting blades of the cutting machine, preventing injury to the operator. |
| US08528448B2 |
Kit, with a selection valve, for repairing and inflating inflatable articles
A kit for repairing and inflating inflatable articles, and having a compressor assembly for generating compressed air; releasable connecting means fixed with respect to the compressor assembly and for connecting the compressor assembly mechanically and fluidically to a sealing liquid container assembly; a first pipe connecting the compressor assembly to the container assembly; a second pipe parallel to the first pipe with respect to the compressor assembly; and a valve interposed between the compressor assembly and the first and second pipe. The valve defines a cavity bounded by a conical surface; a rotary distribution member cooperating in fluidtight manner with the conical surface; an inlet connected to the compressor assembly; a first outlet connected to the first pipe; and a second outlet connected to the second pipe. |
| US08528446B2 |
Parking lever cover for vehicle
A parking lever cover for a vehicle can be easily and firmly attached to a parking lever frame having a large bend angle, easily manufactured, and provide the parking lever with an aesthetically elegant external appearance, thereby increasing commercial appeal of the vehicle. |
| US08528443B2 |
Accelerator pedal for a vehicle and mounting rack therefor
A pedal assembly including a rack for mounting the pedal assembly to the wall of a vehicle. In one embodiment, the rack includes a plate with at least one clip bracket, a locating pin aperture, and a pair of mounting apertures. The plate is coupled to the pedal assembly in a relationship wherein the clip bracket receives a mounting clip formed on the pedal assembly, the locating pin aperture receives a locating pin formed on the pedal assembly, and the mounting apertures in the plate are aligned with respective mounting apertures defined on the pedal assembly and receive fasteners which secure the rack to the pedal. |
| US08528442B2 |
Bicycle component positioning device
A bicycle component positioning device is basically provided with a stationary support member, a positioning element, a position maintaining member, a winding element, a release member and a winding element control member. The winding element moves between a winding position and a disengaging position. The release member moves the position maintaining member between a holding position and a position releasing position in response to pivotal movement of the release member between a neutral position and a position releasing position. The winding element control member moves between a rest position and a control position that holds the winding element in the disengaging position in response to pivotal movement of the release member between the neutral position and the position releasing position. The winding element control member is guided by the stationary support member during movement of the winding element control member between the rest position and the control position. |
| US08528436B2 |
Motor-driven steering assist apparatus
In a motor-driven steering assist apparatus, a gear train transmitting a rotation of an electric motor to an output shaft comprises a single unit body surrounded by housings, and an attaching boss to a vehicle body side bracket is provided in a lower surface of the housing as seen from an axial direction of the output shaft. |
| US08528435B2 |
Power assist element
A power assist element for arrangement in a synchronizer hub of a transmission synchronization device includes a base body, which has a height, a longitudinal extension and a lateral extension, and which in the direction of the longitudinal extension comprises includes two opposite, distal end sections. In at least one end section a functional surface is formed, which in the installed state cooperates with the synchronizer hub. On the base body between the two distal end sections a central elevation is formed for engagement in a sliding sleeve groove on a bottom of a sliding sleeve. The central elevation includes at least one additional functional surface which can be brought into active connection with the sliding sleeve. The functional surface in the distal end section(s) is at an acute angle to the greatest longitudinal extension of the base body and oriented at an angle to the longitudinal extension. |
| US08528434B2 |
Manual transmission for vehicle
A six speed M/T includes four shafts, which are an input shaft A1, a first intermediate shaft A2, a second intermediate shaft A3, and an output shaft A4, those being parallel to one another. A single drive gear G46i is used as both a fourth-speed drive gear and a sixth-speed drive gear. The number of gear teeth of a second final drive gear Gfi2 is greater than that of a first final drive gear Gfi1. A third-speed driven gear G3o, a fourth-speed driven gear G4o, a first-speed driven gear G1o, and a second-speed driven gear G2o are arranged to the shaft A2 in this order from the side close to an engine E/G, and a fifth-speed driven gear G5o, a sixth-speed driven gear G6o, and a reverse driven gear GRo are arranged to the shaft A3 in this order from the side close to the engine E/G. |
| US08528430B2 |
Measuring needle with non return valve function
A device for measuring pressure or temperature in a heating or a cooling system and where the device is a measuring needle complete (1) comprising a measuring needle housing (6) with one cavity (20) and a spring-loaded non return valve (8), where the non return valve, in a measuring position, has an open communication with the probe (10) via the measuring needle housing and a hose nipple, via a hose, to a measuring instrument. This open communication is closed immediately as soon as the measuring is completed and the measuring needle (1) is removed from the measuring nipple. After measuring, due to this immediate closing, leakage of the enclosed fluid that exists in the complete measuring needle (1) and the measuring hose (5) is prevented. |
| US08528429B2 |
System and method for stabilizing a sensor
Systems and methods are provided for stabilizing an emissions instrument. The emissions instrument includes an emissions sensor. The emissions sensor may be coupled to a gyro stabilizer. The gyro stabilizer may stabilize the emissions sensor, thus resulting in a more accurate and reliable emissions instrument. |
| US08528428B2 |
Method for cullet quality grading
A method for grading the quality of cullet. Some embodiments include methods for generating a statistically significant sample of material from a collection of cullet contaminated with waste. Other embodiments include methods for evaluating various qualities of the sample with relatively simple techniques. Yet other embodiments include a uniform and reasonably simple method for communicating the results of the evaluation among different parties. |
| US08528426B2 |
Device for transfer of body fluids
A cannula (10) for use in removing samples of fluid from a container sealed with a pierceable membrane, the cannula including a hollow needle like portion (12) having a pointed forward end (20) shaped to allow forcible penetration through the membrane, the rear end (14) having a first bore (26) and an insert (40) located within the first bore (40) that reduces the effective size of the first bore (26) without blocking the first bore (26). |
| US08528424B2 |
Exhaust gas analyzing system
In a gas analyzer 3 and a gas analyzing system 100 adapted to introduce and analyze a part of a measurement target gas flowing through a measurement target gas flow passage 12, in order to ensure accuracy in controlling the measurement target gas flowing through the measurement target gas flow passage 12 and accuracy in its own and other measurements, there are provided an object measurement device 35 adapted to acquire a part of the measurement target gas introduced from the measurement target gas flow passage 12 so as to measure a quantity etc. of a measurement object contained in the measurement target gas, an acquired gas flow rate measurement device 34 adapted to measure a flow rate of the measurement target gas acquired by the object measurement device 35, and a gas supply device 36 adapted to supply another gas of a flow rate equal to the gas flow rate measured by the acquired gas flow rate measurement device 34 to a portion downstream of a shunt point in the measurement target gas flow passage 12. |
| US08528423B1 |
Portable torque measurement and notification system and method of using same
A portable torque measurement and notification system, including a sensing device having a first end adaptable to connect with a first torque applying device and a second end adaptable to connect with a second torque applying device, the sensing device including one or more sensors in communication with the sensing device to produce load responsive measurements of at least one of the first and second torque applying device; an electronic circuit to receive the one or more load responsive measurements and to transmit wirelessly at least one of the group consisting of the one or more load responsive measurements and one or more torque measurements; at least one power unit; and a wireless device operable to communicate with the sensing device and to produce a notifier based on at least one of the group consisting of the one or more load responsive measurements and one or more torque measurements. |
| US08528421B2 |
Device for measuring the torque of a hairspring
A device for measuring the torque of a hairspring for a balance wheel-hairspring oscillator includes an arbor on which a seat is arranged, a benchmark element, pivoting means for pivoting the arbor, means for keeping the outer end of the hairspring fixed relative to the arbor during measurement, elastic elements provided on a portion of the seat, and means for acting on the elastic elements. The inner end of said hairspring is secured to a collet, the diameter of the seat of the arbor is of a dimension to allow a driving connection by friction with the wall of an axial aperture of the collet, and the elastic elements are formed to bring, under the action of the action means, the section of the portion of the seat forming the driving connection from a greater dimension to a smaller dimension than that of the axial aperture of the collet. |
| US08528420B2 |
Eccentric venturi flow measurement device
An eccentric, smoothly tapered body for installation into cylindrical pipe to cause a constriction in the pipe to facilitate measuring the flow of fluid through the pipe. The body defines a flow constrictor having a smoothly tapered inner surface having a leading edge and a trailing edge and an apex therebetween. A bore extends through the flow constrictor at the apex. Pressure is measured at the bore at the apex and upstream of the flow constrictor and flow rate is calculated from the pressure differential therebetween. |
| US08528419B2 |
Coriolis mass flowmeter having a reinforcement element for shifting implemented eigenfrequencies of the housing away from the operating frequency
A Coriolis mass flowmeter (1) with at least one sensor arrangement (2) and at least one housing (3), in which the sensor arrangement (2) includes at least one measuring tube (4), at least one oscillation generator (5) and at least one oscillation sensor (6), and the measuring tube (4) being excited by the oscillation generator (5) in at least one operating frequency. To optimize production costs and weight relative to the size of the measuring device is implemented by at least one reinforcement element (10) being arranged in and joined to the housing (3) in such a manner that the implemented eigenfrequencies of the housing (3) are shifted away from the operating frequency of the measuring tube (4). |
| US08528414B2 |
Apparatus for measuring a mechanical quantity
Because of stress occurring due to a change in temperature, and presence of heat distribution on a semiconductor substrate, and a dopant dosage gradient, an offset output occurs to a Wheatstone bridge circuit intended for detection of strain, posing a problem. To solve the problem, diffusion resistors are disposed in the form of a matrix, and bridge resistors Rv1, Rv2 each are formed by selectively connecting diffusion resistors disposed in each odd column, in series with each other, while Rh1, Rh2 each are formed by selectively connecting diffusion resistors disposed in each even column, in series with each other. |
| US08528411B2 |
Elastic material for pressure measurement and pressure measuring device
An elastic material for pressure measurement, containing an elastic resin composition having at least either a urethane bond or a urea bond and being obtained by reacting an isocyanate with (A) a linear polyol and then curing the obtained prepolymer with use of a curing agent having two —NH2 groups in one molecule. |
| US08528409B2 |
High temperature gage pressure sensor
A pressure sensor for measuring gage pressure in relatively high temperature environments is provided. The sensor includes a housing that is configured to couple to a source of pressurized fluid and has an inner surface that defines a inner volume. A pressure sensitive device is coupled to the sensor housing and is configured define a reference chamber in at least a portion of the inner volume. The reference chamber is fluidly isolated from the source of pressurized fluid. An atmospheric reference port is formed in the sensor housing and is in fluid communication with the reference chamber for maintaining the reference chamber at ambient atmospheric pressure. A porous metallic plug is disposed within the atmospheric reference pressure port. |
| US08528407B2 |
Method and apparatus for in-line quality control of wafers
An apparatus and a method are disclosed for testing the quality of a wafer. The apparatus and a method comprise coupling a broad-band actuator to the wafer. Sweeping frequencies are connected to the broad-band actuator for vibrating the wafer. An acoustic sensor is coupled to the wafer for measuring a resonant frequency of the vibrating wafer. The measured resonant frequency of the vibrating wafer is compared with a reference resonant frequency to deterring the quality of the wafer. |
| US08528405B2 |
Flexure assemblies and methods for manufacturing and using the same
In one embodiment, an accelerometer includes a suspension frame, a proof mass, and a plurality of flexures suspending the proof mass from the suspension frame. The flexures allow the proof mass to deflect in response to an acceleration along a sensitive axis of the accelerometer. Each flexure exhibits an initial spring rate along the sensitive axis of substantially zero. |
| US08528395B2 |
Monitoring fluid pressure in a well and retrievable pressure sensor assembly for use in the method
A method for monitoring the pressure difference across an ESP comprises:—connecting the ESP (7) to a production tubing (6)—providing the production tubing (6) with a side pocket (9) which comprises an opening (13)—inserting a pressure sensor assembly (10) into the side packet (9) such that the opening (13) is located between a pair of annular seals (14, 15)—monitoring the pressure difference across the ESP (7) by inducing the sensor assembly to measure a pressure difference between an upper section of the side pocket which is in communication with the interior of the tubing and a middle section (16) of the interior of the side packet (9) which is located between the annular seals (14, 15). |
| US08528384B2 |
Method of determining surface pore mouth diameter distribution of porous material
The invention relates to a method for the determination of the pore-mouth size distribution at the surface of porous materials. (i) While the backside of the sample is purged with a gas, the sample is immersed into a liquid wetting agent. (ii) The gas pressure is gradually decreased, and the gas flowrate is monitored; or, the gas flowrate is gradually decreased, and the gas pressure is monitored. (iii) When the gas flow stops, the remaining pressure in the system corresponds to the largest pore-mouth size. (iv) The pore-mouth size distribution can be calculated through a “dry curve” and a “wet curve”, which are curves of the gas flowrate vs. pressure at the dry and wetted states of the sample. The calculation of the pore-mouth size and the pore-mouth size distribution is the same as that based on the conventional bubble point method. The measurement of the pore-mouth size of the porous materials is of great importance when they are used as the substrates for surface coatings. |
| US08528383B2 |
Pressure sensor using gas/liquid interface
A pressure sensor and method of sensing pressure is disclosed. An fluid port is coupled to a substrate. A first microchannel within the substrate is in fluid communication with the fluid port. The first microchannel includes a first compressible fluid, a first incompressible fluid and at least one first meniscus. A second microchannel within the substrate is in fluid communication with the fluid port. The second microchannel includes a second compressible fluid, a second incompressible fluid and at least one second meniscus. A pressure of the first meniscus and/or the second meniscus is determined. |
| US08528382B2 |
Calibration device for mass flow meters
A calibration device for mass flow meters including a test piece measuring section into which the mass flow meter test piece to be calibrated can be inserted, a device for creating a flow of a medium through the test piece measuring section and a temperature-measuring device positioned in the test piece measuring section for detecting the temperature of the medium. The temperature-measuring device is position in the flow such that the flow is disturbed as little as possible, while at the same time being capable of highly-accurate detection of the temperature of the flowing medium. In particular, the temperature-measuring device is an ultrasonic temperature-measuring device that is configured to emit an ultrasonic signal into the medium and determine the temperature of the medium by measuring a speed of the emitted ultrasonic signal. |
| US08528381B2 |
Downhole instrument calibration during formation survey
A downhole sensor calibration apparatus includes a rotational or gimbaling mechanism for guiding a sensing axis of an orientation responsive sensor through a three-dimensional orbit about three orthogonal axes. A method includes using measurements taken over the three-dimensional orbit to calibrate the sensor and determine other characteristics of the sensor or tool. |
| US08528380B2 |
Bending apparatus
A bending apparatus which manufactures a bent metal member with high productivity and excellent dimensional has a first support mechanism, which supports a steel tube while feeding it, a heating mechanism, which heats all or a portion of the steel tube, a cooling mechanism, which forms a high temperature portion in part of the steel tube by cooling a portion of the heater steel tube, a second support mechanism, which imparts a bending moment to the high temperature portion and bends the steel tube to a desired shape by moving two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally while supporting at least a portion of the steel tube, and a deformation preventing mechanism, which prevents deformation of the steel tube. At least one of the second support mechanism and the deformation preventing mechanism has a chuck which has a tubular member with a circular, polygonal, or special transverse cross section for gripping the steel tube. |
| US08528377B2 |
Pipe expanding apparatus of thin wall stainless steel pipe
The invention provides a pipe expanding apparatus of a thin wall stainless steel pipe in which a strain is not generated in a flange and a yoke, even when a pipe expanding rubber swells. The invention includes a flange which forms one inclined surface of a chevron shaped projection portion by internally fitting a thin wall stainless steel pipe, a yoke which forms the other inclined surface of the chevron shaped projection portion by being coupled at its one end side to the flange, and is coupled to a cylinder at its other end side, a guide rod which is coupled to a piston of the cylinder, and a pipe expanding rubber which is pinched between a step portion of the guide rod and a backup ring and expands the thin wall stainless steel pipe. |
| US08528373B2 |
Electronic cam assembly
A cam assembly may be constructed with lock cylinder perforated by a centrally positioned keyway, and having an exposed circumferential surface surrounding the keyway rotatably fitted within a centrally positioned keyhole of a housing, and rotated within the centrally positioned keyhole in response to rotational force applied by a key conformingly corresponding to the lock cylinder through an arc. An electronic circuit containing a memory and a microprocessor, is mounted upon and supported by the cam to rotate with the cam through the arc, operationally responds to digital data carried by the key that is in electronic conformance to data stored within the memory, by electrically energizing a release mechanism that is spaced-apart from the axis of rotation of the cylinder plug, to move from a deployed position preventing rotation of the cam relative to the housing. |
| US08528370B2 |
Lock
A lock includes a housing, a cable, a restrictor, and a lock unit. One end of the cable is fixed to the housing while the other end is detachably connected to the housing so as to selectively form an adjustable loop with the housing. The restrictor is rotatably disposed on the housing to selectively wedge together with the cable. The lock unit is disposed on the housing and can be selectively moved among a first position, a second position, and a third position. When the lock unit is moved toward the first position, the restrictor moves together with the lock unit to detach from the cable so as to allow the other end of the cable to disassemble from the housing. When the lock unit is moved to the second position, the restrictor restricts the cable to move toward a specific direction so as to shrink the adjustable loop. When the lock unit is moved to the third position, the restrictor wedges together with the cable, so that the length of the adjustable loop is fixed and not adjustable. |
| US08528369B2 |
Geometric configuration of tub
In a household washer which contains a tub with a cylindrical wall suspended by means of suspension rods, the tub also is comprised of ears with petals by which the tub is held in one extreme by suspension rods, at least one cylindrical reinforcement which surrounds the cylindrical wall, at least one pair of lobes in a substantially upper area of the tub, and additionally preferably one spout for over-flow in a substantially upper area of the tub. |
| US08528368B2 |
Methods and systems for producing a coated optical fibers
Methods for producing a coated optical fiber may include drawing an optical fiber from a draw furnace along a first pathway and redirecting the optical fiber along a second, different pathway which is non-parallel with the first pathway. The optical fiber may be coated as it travels along the second pathway. |
| US08528366B2 |
Heat-regulating glass bending apparatus and method
A sag-bending system is disclosed. The sag-bending system comprises a sag-bending glass support mold and a perimeter thermal manager. The support mold comprises a plurality of rib members extending in a first direction, each of the plurality of rib members having a curved upper surface shaped to form the collective upper surface having a position and shape to support a quadrilateral-shaped sag-bent glass sheet into a desired contour, each of the rib members further having a lower surface, and a plurality of support members extending in a second direction between at least two of the plurality of rib members, the second direction traverse to the first direction. The perimeter thermal manager is sized and positioned to surround, to extend at least partially over, and to extend at least partially under the periphery of the support mold. |
| US08528363B2 |
Process and apparatus for the separation of air by cryogenic distillation
In a process for the production of nitrogen and of oxygen enriched liquid by separation of air by cryogenic distillation, a first stream of air is sent to an exchanger to form a first cooled air stream, the first cooled air stream is sent to a bottom reboiler of a column, condensed air is sent from the bottom reboiler to a top condenser of the column, vaporized air is sent from the top condenser to a first compressor, air is sent from the first compressor to the column, air is sent to a second compressor and from the second compressor to the exchanger to produce a cooled second air stream, the cooled second air stream is sent to a first turboexpander and from the turbo expander to the column, bottom liquid is removed from the column and gaseous nitrogen is removed from the top of the column. |
| US08528357B2 |
Ice-making machine with ice storage bin
An ice-making machine has a box-shaped lower housing with an ice storage bin, a box-shaped upper housing mounted on a rear portion of the lower housing, an ice-making mechanism within the front portion of a machine compartment in the upper housing, and a freezing unit installed behind the ice-making mechanism for supplying refrigerant to the ice-making mechanism. An open-and-close ice-access lid is pivotally mounted between the lower end of the upper housing and the the lower housing. An air intake passage introduces outside cooling air from the front face of the lower housing into the machine compartment along inner surfaces of one side wall and a rear wall of the lower housing. An air discharge passage is provided for passing the air after cooling to flow outward along inner surfaces of the rear wall and the other side wall of the lower housing to an exterior discharge from the front face of the lower housing. |
| US08528355B2 |
Atomization unit with negative pressure actuator
An atomization unit is described that employs a negative pressure actuator to reduce the fluid pressure acting on the atomizer in order to minimize or prevent fluid leakage from the atomizer. Methods of minimizing or preventing fluid leakage from an atomizer through use of a negative pressure actuator are also described. The atomization unit is particularly suitable for use in a refrigerator to cool and humidify at least a portion of the refrigerator. |
| US08528352B2 |
Defrost timer for refrigerator and refrigerator
The defrost timer is typically provided to remove frost on an evaporator in a refrigerator. The defrost timer includes a circuit board, a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal, a fourth terminal, a switching unit, a first AC line, a second AC line, a third AC line and a fourth AC line. The first AC line is provided on the circuit board and connects the first terminal and the switching unit. The second AC line is provided on the circuit board and connects the second terminal and the switching unit. The third AC line is provided on the circuit board and connects the third terminal and the switching unit. The fourth AC line is provided on the circuit board and connects the fourth terminal and the switching unit. Distance between the third AC line and the fourth AC line is at least 5 mm. |
| US08528351B2 |
Ice maker and refrigerator having the same
An ice maker comprises a tray accommodating water to make ice, a first control box (200) installed at a side of the tray, the first control box (200) accommodating a predetermined part of a mechanism unit driving the ice maker; and a second control box (300) accommodating the other part of the mechanism unit which is electrically connected with the part of the mechanism unit accommodated in the first control part. |
| US08528350B2 |
Ice making apparatus
An ice making apparatus is provided. When an ice full detecting arm is not returned to an initial position by being caught on ice filled in the ice bank, it is determined that the ice bank is fully filled with the ice. Since the ice full detecting arm does not rotate when it is caught by the ice of the ice bank, the damage of the ice full detecting arm can be prevented. |
| US08528347B2 |
Method for controlling freezing capacity of a fixed-frequency AC ice-water system
A method for controlling the freezing capacity of a fixed-frequency freezing AC ice-water system, by using temperature buffer difference of individual requirement ends to control the number of operating compressors in a fixed-frequency chiller and make each of the operating compressors have a usage rate close to 100%. Further, various operating procedures are defined for the requirement ends and each of the operating procedures has an individually defined high-low temperature range such that the freezing capacity supply cycle or startup cycle of the fixed-frequency chiller can be adjusted by using the high-low temperature ranges of the operating procedures as temperature buffer strips, thereby allowing the compressors in the fixed-frequency chiller to operate collectively in order to save energy. |
| US08528343B2 |
Method and apparatus to facilitate substitute natural gas production
A method of producing substitute natural gas (SNG) includes providing at least one steam turbine engine. The method also includes providing a gasification system that includes at least one gas shift reactor configured to receive a boiler feedwater stream and a synthesis gas (syngas) stream. The at least one gas shift reactor is further configured to produce a high pressure steam stream. The method further includes producing a steam stream within the at least one gas shift reactor and channeling at least a portion of the steam stream to the at least one steam turbine engine. |
| US08528341B2 |
Ramjet superheater
The present invention provides a regenerative superheater system for an ejector ramjet engine. The invention includes a superheater in thermal communication with the combustion chamber of the ramjet engine. The superheater transfers thermal energy from combustion chamber to an ejectant which is then redirected upstream to the ramjet ejector. In one embodiment of the invention the temperature of the ejectant is modulated by a variable geometry cooler that controls the amount of thermal energy removed from the superheater system by ambient air. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, the temperature of the ejectant is modulated by a variable geometry superheater that controls the amount of thermal energy added to the superheater system through combustion gas. |
| US08528339B2 |
Stacked laminate gas turbine component
A stacked laminate component for a turbine engine that may be used as a replacement for one or more metal components is provided. The stacked laminate component can have a body formed by a process of stacking and laminating layers to define a radially inner surface along the hot gas path. The layers can be substantially orthogonal to the radially inner surface. The layers can be at least a first layer of a first material and a second layer of a second material. At least the first material is a ceramic matrix composite. The second material can have a higher thermal conductivity or a higher creep strength than the first material. |
| US08528337B2 |
Lobe nozzles for fuel and air injection
An injection system for fuel and air that includes a number of lobes positioned adjacent to each other. Each of the lobes has a trailing end. A number of jets may be positioned adjacent to the trailing end. |
| US08528336B2 |
Fuel nozzle spring support for shifting a natural frequency
The present application provides a fuel nozzle spring support system. The fuel nozzle spring support system may include a fuel nozzle, a cap assembly, and a spring support positioned between the fuel nozzle and the cap assembly. |
| US08528334B2 |
Flow conditioner for fuel injector for combustor and method for low-NOx combustor
An injector for a gas turbine combustor including a catalyst coated surface forming a passage for feed gas flow and a channel for oxidant gas flow establishing an axial gas flow through a flow conditioner disposed at least partially within an inner wall of the injector. The flow conditioner includes a length with an interior passage opening into upstream and downstream ends for passage of the axial gas flow. An interior diameter of the interior passage smoothly reduces and then increases from upstream to downstream ends. |
| US08528330B2 |
Enhanced supercharging system and an internal combustion engine having such a system
The invention refers to a supercharging system (6) for an internal combustion engine (1) incorporating in combination, a turbine (7), a compressor (8) and an electrical driven system (20) that is connected by any power transmission system (16, 19) to the crankshaft (4) or any other vehicle drive shaft of an internal combustion engine, where the turbine inlet is subjected to exhaust gases, causing the turbine wheel to rotate and thereby via the drive shaft causing mechanical rotating power. |
| US08528325B1 |
Pump assembly
A pump apparatus for use on a vehicle or industrial application having a housing in which an end cap is disposed. Multiple hydraulic pumps driven by a prime mover are mounted on the end cap and connected to hydraulic ports formed in the end cap. An auxiliary pump may be drivingly coupled to the prime mover and a power take off unit may also be connected thereto. The end cap may further include a charge pump mounting surface and a charge port for connecting a charge pump. |
| US08528324B2 |
Device for metering fuel
The invention relates to a metering device for fuel upstream of an oxidation catalytic converter in the exhaust gas system of an internal combustion engine. A closing valve and/or a metering valve and an injection valve are integrated downstream of a supply device for fuel into a line leading to a metering unit. A return having a first overflow valve branches off upstream of the metering unit. A further return having a second overflow valve influencing a mean pressure level of the metering unit is disposed between the closing valve and the metering valve. |
| US08528319B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for mitigating diesel exhaust fluid deposits and associated conditions
According to one embodiment, described herein is an apparatus for mitigating on-board diagnostic (OBD) faults generated by an OBD system of an internal combustion engine (ICE) system having a selective catalytic reduction system with a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) decomposition tube. The apparatus includes a fault mitigation module that is configured to monitor at least one OBD signal of the OBD system and issue a request for regenerating the DEF decomposition tube when a value of the at least one OBD signal reaches a predetermined regeneration threshold corresponding with the at least one OBD signal. The regeneration threshold is reachable prior to an OBD fault threshold corresponding with the at least one OBD signal. The apparatus also includes a regeneration module that is configured to regenerate the DEF decomposition tube according to the issued request. |
| US08528315B2 |
Air cooling apparatus for a purge valve
A cooling enclosure for a valve includes an elongated housing body having a pair of housing portions and a pair of removable end plates, the pair of housing portions separable along at least one longitudinally-extending seam. Fastener devices are provided for securing the pair of housing portions engaged along the at least one longitudinal extending seam. One or more apertures are provided for accommodating a like number of valve fittings, and cooling air inlet and outlet openings are also provided in the housing body for supplying and removing cooling air to the housing body. |
| US08528312B1 |
Turbojet engine inlet and exhaust covers
The turbojet engine inlet and exhaust covers are permanently installed at the inlet and exhaust outlet or nozzle of an aircraft turbojet engine installation. The covers preclude the entrance of small animals, windblown debris, snow, and/or other contaminants into the engine inlet or exhaust while the airplane is inoperative. The covers have an iris-type shutter configuration, each cover having a plurality of leaves pivotally attached to a circumferential stationary housing that is attached to the engine or nacelle. A rotary ring is rotated through a small arc to pivot the shutter leaves inward and outward to close and open the engine opening. The rotary ring may be driven by an electric motor, or by hydraulic or pneumatic power. The system may be automated to close according to engine temperature after flight, and/or to open upon initiation of the engine start sequence for the aircraft. |
| US08528309B2 |
Tool and method for creating fashion accessories
A device comprising: (a) a body portion including: (i) a first end and ii. a second end; (b) a holder at the first end; (c) a holder at the second end; (d) a rotation device at the first end in communication with the holder at the first end; and wherein the holder is fixedly attached to a split gear having a channel therethrough so that one or more flexible mediums may be placed through the channel and removed from a work area located between the holder at the first end and the holder at the second end. |
| US08528308B2 |
Disc mower with folding wing frame
A movable frame for connection to a prime mover that supports multiple individual similar implements in a manner similar to the manner each would be singly connected in a trail-behind implement pulled by a prime mover, but maintains relative positioning between the implements sufficiently to enable the multiple implements to function as a single, larger implement. The frame allows individual implements to be positioned generally transversely in an operating position for travel in a first direction providing maximum operating width, and generally longitudinally in a transport position for travel in a direction opposite to the first direction in which the overall with of the implements on the frame is minimized to three meters or less. |
| US08528307B2 |
Method of, and apparatus for, filling and closing tobacco bags
A method and apparatus for filling, closing, folding and transporting away tobacco bags (10) or pouches, using a turret (24) that rotates about a horizontal axis and has preferably six mounts (28), each for one bag (10), arranged along the circumference in the region of planar wall portions (29). The bags are conveyed through a plurality of processing stations, in particular through a filling station, suction-extraction station, closing station and wrapping station, by the turret (24) with cyclic rotary movement. A plurality of sub-turrets, each with corresponding mounts (28), can be arranged one beside the other in the axial direction. |
| US08528306B2 |
Method and device for producing pockets provided with napkins
The invention relates to a method of producing pockets containing a napkin (5). To this end, two web-shaped layers (1, 2) of a flat, flexible material are moved along a transport path and held at a distance apart from one another in one section of the transport path. Napkins (5) are individually picked up from a stack and placed between the layers (1, 2). Only then, downstream of the section in the web direction, are adjacent regions of the layers (1, 2) placed in contact with one another and joined to one another. The pockets formed in this manner are cut from the web-shaped layers (1, 2). In the section, a respective napkin (5) is moved in a direction essentially at a right angle to the web direction and placed between the layers (1, 2) in a position oriented essentially parallel with the web direction. |
| US08528304B2 |
Method and device for producing content filling bottle
The present invention provides a method and device for producing a content filling bottle including a bottom part that is inverted between a concave shape and a convex shape to prevent a body part from being subjected to reduced pressure deformation, the method and device being capable of efficiently producing a sanitary and high-quality content filling bottle. Contents are filled into an empty bottle 1 with an inversion part 11 projecting outwardly from the body part. A cap 6 is fitted onto an opening of the bottle 1 to seal the bottle 1. An auxiliary tool 27 is then installed on the bottom part 5 of the bottle 1. Then, the bottom part of the bottle 1 with the auxiliary tool 27 installed thereon is supported via the auxiliary tool 27. The downwardly projecting inversion part 11 is pressed up so as to be inverted and recessed inwardly into the bottle 1. Subsequently, with the opening of the bottle 1 gripped, the auxiliary tool 27 is separated from the bottle 1. |
| US08528297B2 |
Method for constructing a building using corner panels
A method for constructing a building comprises the steps of: preparing a base (1); connecting a plurality of panels (2) to the base (1) to form a plurality of walls of the building, each panel (2) at least partly forming a wall of the building; the step of connecting the plurality of panels (2) to the base (1) comprising the preliminary step of connecting a plurality of corner panels (5) at the corners of the base (1). |
| US08528290B2 |
Flooring article
Disclosed is a floorboard to provide simplified assembly of flooring panels without damage and achieve enhanced horizontal coupling force. The floorboard includes a tongue part provided at a first flooring panel and a recessed part provided at a second flooring panel. The tongue part includes a tongue protrusion, a tongue bottom portion, and a raised retaining portion protruding downward from the tongue bottom portion. The recessed part includes an upper lip caught by the tongue protrusion when the tongue part is inserted into the recessed part, a lower lip, a raised portion protruding upward from an end of the lower lip, and a guide wall defining an inner wall of the recessed part and having the same contour as an arc drawn by an end of the tongue protrusion as the tongue part introduced between the upper and lower lips is pivotally rotated. |
| US08528289B2 |
Mechanical locking system for floor panels
Floor panels with a flexible tongue in an insertion groove, the flexible tongue is designed to cooperate, in a connected state with a tongue groove of another panel, the panels are adapted to be locked together by vertical folding, the flexible tongue has a projection portion which, in a connected state projects outside the insertion groove and cooperates with the tongue groove, said projecting portion has a beveled and/or rounded sliding surface and the panels have a sliding surface adapted to cooperate therewith during vertical folding, the flexible tongue during the vertical folding is displaced twice in the horizontal direction, a first displacement is effected by the vertical folding of the fold panel whereby at least a part of the flexible tongue is bent, a second displacement of the flexible tongue towards its initial position is accomplished substantially by a spring effect caused by said bending of said flexible tongue. |
| US08528288B1 |
Insulated panel arrangement
An insulated panel arrangement includes pin support members and rod support members having end surfaces that bear against the end faces of the panel skins, with at least a portion of the end surfaces of the pin support members lying directly opposite the end surfaces of the rod support members. |
| US08528284B2 |
Thermal energy venting system
The thermal energy venting system includes an insulation board disposed in the cavity between adjacent studs and other areas of a domicile or building to form venting channels directing excess heat through a roof/ridge vent. The insulation board is a non-porous laminate formed by a rigid foam core covered or sheathed with a reflective polymeric facer or plastic. The insulation board provides a thermal barrier for conduction, convection and radiation aspects of thermal energy transfer. The installation of the insulation board forms an envelope that reflects exterior thermal energy and interior thermal energy to maintain comfortable interior temperatures with minimal heating/cooling energy expenditure and costs. |
| US08528281B2 |
Window and door assembly structures
A nosing and drip cap are mounted to each other by elements of the nosing and drip cap. A hook receptacle and/or a stud receptacle extend the length of the nosing. A cooperating hook and/or stud extend from the drip cap. The drip cap is secured to the nosing by engaging the hook in the hook receptacle and/or the stud in the stud receptacle, in a loose engagement combination. While nosing and drip cap are engaged, the assembly can be secured together by (i) installing fasteners spaced along the length of the assembly or, where hook and hook receptacle are used, (ii) bending the assembly into an arcuate configuration, with the inner flange of the nosing to the inside of the bend. While being bent, the hook and hook receptacle create a tightened locking-type engagement between themselves. Either way, the nosing and the drip cap are substantially permanently locked together. |
| US08528280B2 |
Composite hutch door
A door as provided includes a one piece molded outer frame, a transparent panel, and a one piece molded inner frame, the inner and outer frames being coupled via a clip component and clip receiving component with the transparent panel secured therebetween. |
| US08528277B2 |
Photovoltaic plant with reflector elements
A photovoltaic plant includes a plurality of longitudinal solar panels, a plurality of longitudinal reflector sheets, and a plurality of bending-resistant clamping strips. The plurality of longitudinal solar panels are disposed with mounting rails on a substantially horizontally orientated flat substrate at a predetermined angle and in parallel rows with a predetermined spacing to one another. The plurality of longitudinal reflector sheets are arranged between the rows of the solar panels. The clamping strips are disposed in a spaced vertical arrangement between the mounting rails on a back of the solar panels. Each of the clamping strips are configured to connect an upper edge of a respective one of the solar panels to an upper edge of an adjacent first reflector sheet of the reflector sheets and a lower edge of the respective solar panel to a lower edge of an adjacent second reflector sheet of the reflector sheet. |
| US08528275B2 |
Ground anchor with adjustable positioning member
An adjustable ground anchor comprises an anchoring post for securement in ground, base plate fixed on the top of the anchoring post, and L-shaped brackets on the base plate. Slots in the base plate reside symmetrically in relation to the center of the base plate and extend along a line passing through the center of the base plate. Two L-shaped brackets lay on the base plate, each having a slot in the flange abutting the base plate. A through bolt is mounted through the slot in the base plate and the slot in the flange of the bracket above, wherein the slots allow the bracket to freely move on the base plate prior to tightening the through bolt. The brackets form a retaining portion for a post that is fixed between the upward pointing flanges of the brackets. |
| US08528270B2 |
Fascia vent
A fascia vent for a roof structure includes a fascia board for attachment along the lower ends of roof rafters that support a roof deck above an attic space. The fascia vent has an exposed outside face and an inside face at least partly exposed to the attic space. In one embodiment, a plurality of slots are formed along the inside face of the fascia board with a lower end of the slots communicating with ambience along the bottom edge of the fascia board and an upper end of the slots communicating with the attic space. In another embodiment, a plurality of spaced vent pockets are formed in the inside face and a slot is formed along the bottom edge of the fascia vent communicating with the vent pockets. In use, hot air vented from the attic is replaced by fresh air that flows through the fascia vent and into the attic space. |
| US08528267B2 |
Walkway or passageway cover
Dimensionally adequate for the transit of persons in its interior, the main characteristic of which lies in the fact that it consists of a self-supporting, modular and removable cover, which allows simple and fast assembly, independent of said conveyor belt, in addition to subsequent folding in a horizontal position for those times of year when said cover is not used, giving it a high degree of watertightness and resistance to strong winds, with ensuing benefits in terms of visual impact and respect for the natural landscape, in addition to the possibility of using the entire outer surface of the cover as an advertising medium. |
| US08528257B2 |
Convertible pet barrier with a connection member
In an embodiment of the disclosure, a pet barrier connection member is disclosed. The pet barrier connection member comprises a first end configured to couple to a top surface of a first panel and a top surface of a second panel, a second end configured to couple to a bottom surface of the first panel and a bottom surface of the second panel, and a rod coupled to the first end and the second end. |
| US08528256B2 |
Safety device for a movable barrier
A safety device is provided for an upward acting door supported by a support cable, the door being movable along a pair of parallel tracks between an open position and a closed position. The safety device includes a brake pad mechanism disposed within at least one of the parallel tracks and coupleable to the door, the brake pad mechanism operable between a released position, to enable movement of the door as the door is positioned between the open and closed positions, and a braking position, to resist movement of the door. The support cable is coupled to the release mechanism such that in the event of a loss of tension of the support cable, the release mechanism actuates from the released position to the braking position to resist movement of the door. |
| US08528253B2 |
Protection system for motorized pedestrian access passageways
A protection system for motorized pedestrian access passageways, comprising a mechanism for the closing or opening of said passageways, suitable for activating at least one sliding and oscillating shutter (12), which emerges from and re-enters, respectively, the interior of at least one seat (25) of a shaped structure positioned to the side of the access passageway; the shutter (12) is fixed to a longitudinal covering strip (17) which is thus entrained along the seat (25), by means of side guides (9, 10), so as to inhibit access to the seat (25) when the shutter (12) is in a position which closes the passageway. |
| US08528252B2 |
Self watering plant system
This Self-Watering Planter comprises a wick, reservoir, wick-housing running between the soil/soil substitute and the reservoir, and a tight fitting cap to maintain a vacuum seal within the reservoir. The water or liquid mixture is maintained at a constant level across the wick by the vacuum that is created. This prevents water from flowing upwards into the soil when the soil is already wet. Liquid is only draw from the wick by osmosis when the soil is dry. Even as the water level in the reservoir drops, the water level across the wick continues to remain level until the reservoir is nearly empty, allowing the soil constant access to water until the reservoir needs refilling. Several embodiments are included. All contains these features, but some contain addition features as well as different proportions. The uses of the different embodiments are also described. |
| US08528249B1 |
Lawn and/or garden edging device
An apparatus comprising a main portion, a connector and a receptacle. The main portion may have a top, a first side, a second side and a bottom. The connector may be rigidly positioned to extend from the main portion near said first side. The receptacle may be positioned within the main portion near the second side. The connector may be configured to lock into a second receptacle having a similar configuration as said first receptacle. |
| US08528243B1 |
Pistols and methods of manufacture
Pistols and methods of manufacture are provided. A representative pistol includes a slide, at least part of the slide being made of plastic; wherein the pistol is a small caliber pistol or pistol for low-impulse ammunition or training pistol. A representative method for manufacturing a pistol includes: forming a slide of the pistol, with at least part of the slide being made of plastic; wherein the pistol is a small caliber pistol or pistol for low-impulse ammunition or training pistol. |
| US08528241B2 |
Trigger mechanism for a firearm
The invention relates to a trigger mechanism for a firearm, comprising a spring-loaded firing pin which, when in the cocked position, engages on a catch. The catch can be released at a right angle to the direction of the firing pin to fire and can be displaced between the cocked position and a safety position uncocking the firing pin spring along the direction of the firing pin to lock the firearm. The catch slides on an intermediate member when displaced, said member being movable in the direction of release of the catch and engaging on a click-stop edge of a trigger, which click-stop edge can be disengaged to fire. |
| US08528237B1 |
Snow plow
A snow plow for permanently attaching to a vehicle, selectively deploying a plow blade beyond a bumper and selectively retracting the blade underneath the vehicle by a hydraulic cylinder assembly. The snow plow has a pair of plow blades, namely a front plow blade and a rear plow blade that selectively deploy. The blades have side extensions that hydraulically extend laterally to remove the snow in front of the wheels and widen the path of snow removal. A hydraulic arm assembly pivots the blade to the right or to the left to attack the snow at an angle when plowing and removing snow. A pantographic frame assembly hydraulically lowers and raises the hydraulic cylinder assembly, lowering the plow blade closer to the ground or raising the blade higher for more ground clearance and decreasing the visibility of the blade and the hydraulic cylinder assembly underneath the vehicle. |
| US08528236B2 |
Device for creating a trench in a ground surface
A device for creating a trench in a ground surface includes a frame, an axle and a platform. A wheel is mounted to the axle and a motor is mounted to the platform. The motor is configured to rotate a drive shaft. A primary blade is removably mountable to the drive shaft. The primary blade has a first radius measured from a geometric center of the primary hub to a free end of a largest of the at least three primary tines. A second blade is removably mountable to the primary hub. The secondary blade has a second radius measured from a geometric center of the secondary hub to a free end of a largest of the at least three secondary tines. The first radius is greater than the second radius. A blade guard is mounted to the platform and generally covers the primary and secondary blades in an assembled configuration. |
| US08528231B2 |
Dryer
A dryer is provided. The dryer may include a main body having an inner space formed therein, a support body arranged in the main body so as to form a frame of the main body, a flexible drum rotatably installed on the support body so as to have a non-circular cross-section as it is rotated, and rotation guides arranged between the support body and the flexible drum so as to guide rotation of the flexible drum. A distance from a center of rotation of an inscribed circle contacting the inner circumferential surface of the flexible drum to one random point on the inner circumferential surface of the flexible drum is greater than a distance from the center of rotation of the inscribed circle to another point on the inscribed circle such that the drum maintains a non-circular cross section. |
| US08528230B2 |
Laundry treating appliance with bulky item detection
A laundry treating appliance and method for controlling the operation of a laundry treating appliance comprising a treating chamber by determining the presence of a bulky laundry item based on image data of the laundry. |
| US08528226B2 |
Vented dryer having counter-flowing air and method for the operation thereof
A vented dryer having a drum to dry damp laundry by warm process air; a first process air duct upstream of the drum; a heater to heat the process air in the first process air duct; a supply air duct leading into the first process air duct; an exhaust air duct; a second process air duct downstream of the drum and transitioning into the exhaust air duct; a blower; a first temperature sensor in the first process air duct; and a heat-buildup generator to generate a heat buildup at the first temperature sensor if a counter-flowing air current occurs. |
| US08528225B2 |
Apparatus and method for continuous lyophilization
A method and apparatus for the continuous sublimation of a substance includes cascading a material containing a substance capable of sublimation, such as water, between a plurality of trays vertically stacked within a processing zone provided within a processing chamber. A substantially atmospheric environment is maintained within the processing zone at a temperature whereby the substance sublimes forming a sublimate within the environment. The environment containing the sublimate is contacted with a drying agent such as a desiccant to maintain the environment whereby the substance sublimes at substantially atmospheric pressure and at the controlled temperature. |
| US08528222B2 |
Blade and hook assembly for tape rule
Disclosed is a rule assembly having a housing, a reel rotatably mounted in the housing, an elongated blade arranged to be wound on the reel and to be extendable through an opening in the housing, and an end hook member having a mounting portion attached to the elongated blade and a hook portion. The end hook member is capable of limited movement relative to the blade between an extended position and a retracted position. The rule assembly has a magnet assembly removably attachable to the elongated blade. The magnet assembly has a mounting portion and a magnet. The mounting portion is configured to removably fix the magnet assembly relative to the blade such that a forward surface of the magnet is removably fixed at a position that is aligned with or approximately aligned with a forward surface of the hook portion with the end hook member in its retracted position. |
| US08528221B2 |
Family height recording device
A height recording device is provided for measuring and recording the growth of multiple individuals over a period of time. The device comprises a recording board, a sliding member and a head rod. The sliding member is slideably secured within a dovetail channel extending vertically along the record board. A spring-loaded bullet catch within the dovetail channel maintains the sliding member static position. A head rod is hingedly secured to the sliding member and may be positioned in a horizontal working position or a vertical storage position. On at least one side of the channel, a graduated measuring means is disposed. Workspace is provided on both lateral sides of the channel so that a user may make written recordings of height measurements, names, dates and other information. The dual workspaces provide users with ample space to make multiple recordings and thus it is ideal for families with multiple children. |
| US08528219B2 |
Inclination measurement devices and methods of use
Downhole tools are provided for measuring the inclination of a portion of a drill string. In certain embodiments, downhole tools for measuring inclination comprise a catch system for measuring inclination and a pressure pulse signaling system for communicating inclination measurement information to the surface. Catch systems for measuring inclination include a series of disc mounted on an upper shaft, each disc having a ball disposed thereon. |
| US08528216B2 |
Attachment comb for a hair clipper
An attachment comb for a hair clipper includes a base portion constructed and arranged for releasably engaging the hair clipper, and a plurality of teeth extending from the base portion, each of the teeth including a body portion defined between an upper peripheral edge and a lower peripheral edge, a proximal end adjacent the base portion and a distal end opposite thereof, wherein the body portion includes at least one formation for retaining hair. |
| US08528214B2 |
Razor blade and support assembly
A razor blade and support assembly is provided which flexes in response to shaving forces near slots in the blade support. A razor cartridge includes one or more of the aforementioned razor blade and support assemblies positioned in a housing. The razor cartridge may be permanently or removably coupled to a handle to provide a shaving razor. |
| US08528211B2 |
Method of attaching a cabinet assembly to a hot tub
A method of attaching a cabinet assembly to a spa. The method includes providing a frame that has a channel that forms a perimeter. A spa is placed on the frame such that a flange or lip of the spa extends past the perimeter created by the channel. A plurality of slats are then secured between the flange of the spa and the channel of the frame in order to form a cabinet around the spa. |
| US08528210B2 |
Universal magnet roller press apparatus, assembly, and method
There is provided a universal magnet roller press apparatus, assembly, and method for removing and installing a magnet and a hub of a magnet roller of a toner printer cartridge. The apparatus has a mounting base, a screw drive assembly, an alignment cradle, a front support assembly, a back support assembly, and a first rod stop and a second rod stop. The assembly has the universal magnet roller press apparatus and a plurality of magnet roller adaptors for attached to the magnet roller during removal and installation of the magnet and the hub. |
| US08528209B2 |
Method for manufacturing discharge port member and method for manufacturing liquid discharge head
A method for manufacturing a discharge port member used in a liquid discharge head, comprising in the following order, preparing a substrate at least whose surface is conductive, the substrate having, formed on said surface, a first insulating resist for forming a discharge port and a second insulating resist for forming a recessed portion of a wall of a flow path, forming on surface a first plating layer by plating using said first resist and said second resist as a mask, removing said second resist, forming a second plating layer on an exposed portion of said substrate from which said second resist has been removed, said second plating layer being formed by plating using said first resist as a mask, said second plating layer forming said recessed portion of said wall, and removing said first resist to form said discharge port and removing said substrate. |
| US08528207B2 |
Variable vane calibration method
A method for confirming the position of at least one variably positionable turbine vane is disclosed herein. The method includes the step of mounting at least one camera on an exterior of an at least partially assembled turbine engine. The method also includes the step of generating visual data with the at least one camera corresponding to a position of a turbine vane actuation structure positioned on the exterior of the at least partially assembled turbine engine. |
| US08528206B2 |
Method for the production of a piston for an internal combustion engine
A method for the production of a piston (1) made of steel, for an internal combustion engine, in which the upper piston part (3) is produced using the forging method, and the lower piston part (4) is produced using the forging or casting method, and they are subsequently welded to one another. To simplify the production method and make it cheaper, the upper piston part is forged using the method of semi-hot forming, to finish it to such an extent that further processing of the combustion bowl and of the upper cooling channel regions can be eliminated. |
| US08528204B2 |
Method for producing connector terminal and method for assembling multi-stage connector
2N (where N=1, 2, 3, . . . ) rod-shaped terminals, having overall lengths that vary in sequence, are formed out of a single metal plate by press punching. In the metal plate, rod bodies bridging between a first carrier and a second carrier are arranged so that the lengthwise direction of the rod bodies is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the metal plate, the 2N terminals are divided such that the first N in descending order of length are in a first group, and the remaining N are in a second group, the n-th shortest terminal and the n-th longest terminal are selected from the terminals of the first and second groups and combined one by one, and each combined pair of terminals is disposed in series over one rod body. |
| US08528202B2 |
Method for manufacturing a three dimensional circuit board
A molding pin for a metal die is prevented from breaking, solder is surely deposited, and thus, a circuit pitch can be reduced to the limit. On the front plane of a circuit board, prescribed circuit patterns made of a conductive material are formed, and on the rear plane, prescribed circuit patterns are also formed. On the circuit board, a through hole is formed to carry electricity between the circuit patterns on both planes. The inner shape of the through hole is narrow in a direction between the adjacent circuit patterns and wide in a circuit extending direction. |
| US08528199B2 |
Manufacturing apparatus for wiring harnesses and a manufacturing method for wiring harnesses
For inserting terminals into each connector housing and reducing working area in processes by eliminating rearrangement of wires with terminals, a manufacturing method for wiring harnesses, including the steps of: picking up both ends of a wire at a predetermined position in a transferring direction from a transferring device by a pair of chucks, each chuck picking up one of the both ends of the wire; chucking the both ends of the wire with terminals fed through the pair of chucks, each end of the wire being fed through one of the pair of chucks, by a pair of terminal inserting heads as the terminal inserting device, the pair of terminal inserting heads moving freely independently of each other at least in a direction of a row of a connector housings; and inserting the terminals at the both ends simultaneously into each of the connector housings. |
| US08528189B1 |
Method using modular vibratory apparatus
A method of installing a vibratory conveyor into a confined space includes fabricating a modular vibratory apparatus as individual subassemblies, comprising at least first and second side wall subassemblies, first and second end wall subassemblies, at least one cross-member subassembly, a mounting bracket subassembly, a drive subassembly, and a liner subassembly. The method also includes transporting the individual subassemblies to an installation site as separate subassemblies, and attaching the individual subassemblies to each other to define an assembled modular vibratory apparatus using a bolting technique at the installation site. |
| US08528188B2 |
Method of fastening furniture posts
The disclosure relates to a fastening device with a stem which is engaged on a first end by a cross-dowel with a transverse threaded aperture and on a second end by a cylinder with a set-screw. The second end of the stem includes an aperture surrounded by an oval-shaped longitudinally elongated countersunk region. This aperture can capture the set-screw within a small range of longitudinal positions, thereby allowing for fine adjustments to be made to align the sidewalls of adjacent post segments joined by the fastening device. |
| US08528187B2 |
Method and apparatus for joining multiple components
A method of joining multiple components includes stacking the components vertically. Each component includes two opposite substantially planar surfaces that are arranged in a column when the components are stacked. The method also includes placing the stacked components in a clinch-crimping apparatus having a first punch, a second punch, and a crimping element. The method also includes displacing a section of the substantially planar surfaces of the stacked components by driving the first punch in a first direction that is substantially perpendicular to the surfaces. The method additionally includes retracting the first punch from the displaced section and crimping the displaced section by the crimping element to form a crush initiator. The method additionally includes disengaging the crimping element from the crimped, displaced section. Furthermore, the method includes clinching the crimped, displaced section by driving the second punch in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction. |
| US08528186B2 |
Method and apparatus for securing a conduit to a structure
A method and apparatus for securing a conduit to relatively inaccessible structures, for example, oil tanks on submerged ships. The method involves providing a conduit with a neck, temporarily securing the conduit to the surface, for example by means of magnets, etc, drilling a hole through the structure and passing the neck of the conduit through the hole in the structure, and passing an expander device through the neck of the conduit through the hole in the structure to widen a portion of the internal passage of the conduit in the region of the neck. |
| US08528179B2 |
Method and device for exchanging roller batteries
A method and a device for exchanging roller batteries on supports of cableway installations, include driving a service vehicle towards the support, lifting a cable which runs on the roller battery from the roller battery, then dismounting the roller battery and installing a new roller battery and finally relaying the cable on the roller battery. |
| US08528178B2 |
Bristle and plate subassembly fixture and manufacturing method
A method of manufacturing a brush seal assembly is disclosed. The method includes circumferentially arranging bristles about an axis. A plate is arranged adjacent to the bristles. Unwelded ends of the bristles are aligned with a periphery of the plate to provide a flush surface across the plate and bristles. The unwelded ends are laser welded to the periphery at the flush surface to provide a unitary subassembly. |
| US08528177B2 |
Mandrel extraction tool and method of using same
A mandrel extraction tool includes an actuator assembly and a first mandrel interface arm operably associated with the actuator assembly and adapted to engage a first mandrel. The mandrel extraction tool further includes a second mandrel interface arm operably associated with the actuator assembly and adapted to engage a second mandrel, the second mandrel interface arm being slidingly coupled with the first mandrel interface arm, such that the first mandrel interface arm moves generally linearly with respect to second interface arm when the actuator assembly is actuated. A method for extracting a mandrel includes providing a mandrel extraction tool, engaging the mandrel extraction tool with a mandrel, and applying a force to the mandrel to linearly extract the mandrel from a first portion of a structure. |
| US08528176B2 |
Diffuser case removal apparatus and method
A method and apparatus is provided for removing a centrifugal compressor diffuser case from a turbofan gas turbine engine case which may be used while the engine is installed on an aircraft or when the engine has been removed from the aircraft. The tool includes movable gripping members at least one force member for exerting a pushing action on the engine structure on which the diffuser case is mounted the method includes gripping a peripheral portion of the diffuser case and applying an axial pushing force on the case relative to the engine case to thereby overcome an interference fit between the diffuser case and the engine case. |
| US08528174B2 |
Method of manufacturing an ultrasound imaging transducer acoustic stack with integral electrical connections
Ultrasound transducers can be fabricated by bonding a block of piezoelectric material having a conductive coating to a flex circuit that has a conductive region and at least 20 conductive traces disposed on an insulating substrate. The block of piezoelectric material is then diced so as to cut all the way through the block of piezoelectric material and all the way through the conductive region, and part way through, but not completely through, the insulating substrate. The dicing is performed so that the first conductive region is divided into at least 20 regions that are electrically isolated from each other, and each of the at least 20 regions is in electrical contact with a respective one of the at least 20 conductive traces. |
| US08528171B2 |
Apparatus for storing and organizing electrical cords
A storage device for electrical cords which provides an easy and secure method to contain the cords' length into a small bundle for economy of space and travel is described. By folding the length of cord over itself and inserting the cord into and through an open end of the flexible, semi-rigid hollow cylinder, it is grasped and held by a plurality of inwardly projecting flexible teeth, formed by multiple slits made perpendicular to the interior wall, at the opposite end of the device. In another embodiment, the storage device has the same characteristics but also has an interior wall of prehensile material that further secures the cord in place. Cords can be removed from the device as quickly as they were inserted. Various sizes of the same design are suitable for short and small diameter personal appliance cords, as well as for large industrial electrical cords. |
| US08528162B2 |
Dust collection container and vacuum cleaner having the same
A dust collection container, capable of being installed in a vacuum cleaner, includes a case body and a blocking member. The blocking member is disposed in the case body to separate the case body into a dust chamber and a diversion chamber, a suction inlet corresponding to the dust chamber and an exhaust opening corresponding to the diversion chamber are disposed in the case body, and a barrier piece is disposed at the blocking member opposite to the suction inlet, so as to form a slow flow area between the barrier piece and the suction inlet to effectively disperse dirt. |
| US08528160B2 |
Suction motor and fan assembly housing construction for a surface cleaning apparatus
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet, an air treatment member and a suction motor. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a main body comprising a front end and a rear end, first and second opposed sidewalls and a suction motor housing. At least one of the first and second opposed sidewalls may have a suction motor access opening. |
| US08528156B2 |
Wiper blade
A wiper blade for connection to a wiper arm for wiping a surface to be wiped while swinging to-and-fro between a wiper stop position and a reversal position. The wiper blade includes a lever member configured to be coupled to the wiper arm, and a blade rubber retained by the lever member. The lever member includes first and second retaining hooks projecting toward the surface to be wiped and arranged at an interval in the longitudinal direction of the lever member. The blade rubber includes accommodating grooves, which are open toward a wiping direction. A leaf spring member is mounted in each accommodating groove. The first and second retaining hooks retain the blade rubber while preventing the leaf spring members from falling out of the accommodating grooves. The lever member further includes fall-off preventing protrusions arranged between the first and second retaining hooks in the longitudinal direction of the lever member. The fall-off preventing protrusions project toward the surface to be wiped. The fall-off preventing protrusions are arranged on the rear side of the blade rubber with respect to a direction in which the blade rubber moves from the wiper stop position toward the reversal position. The fall-off preventing protrusions permit movement of the blade rubber in the direction perpendicular to the surface. When the blade rubber moves from the wiper stop position toward the reversal position, the fall-off preventing protrusions receive the blade rubber so as to prevent the leaf spring members from falling out of the accommodating grooves. |
| US08528151B2 |
Cleaning or dusting pad with attachment member holder
A cleaning pad or cleaning article (22) is disclosed. The cleaning article includes a combination of fibers (3) bonded to a base sheet (2). Spot bonding regions (7) and/or a central joining line (4) join fibers to the base sheet (2). The base sheet (2) further has an attachment portion for retaining the cleaning pad to a cleaning implement handle. In one embodiment, the attachment portion (13) is comprised of elongate slit openings (10) in the base sheet (2). In other embodiments, the base sheet (2) is folded over and bonded to the base sheet (2) or to itself to form a retaining cavity (33) for an attachment member (24). |
| US08528149B2 |
Magnet-assisted moisture removal device
A moisture removal device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the device includes a first wiper and a second wiper that are magnetically attracted to each other. Each wiper may include a shell layer and an absorber layer that collectively assist with removing moisture and/or dirt or other materials from an object such as a mask, protective eyewear, glasses, or the like. The device can be placed on the object such that one wiper is on an outside surface and one wiper is on an inside surface. The device can be used to remove moisture from one or both surfaces without requiring a user to remove the protective eyewear from his or her head. |
| US08528146B1 |
Flexible swimming pool brush that contours to clean all angles and areas inside of pools
The present invention discloses a cleaning apparatus which the main body is made up of individual brush sections that are shaped in such a way and attached to one another, that no matter which position it is in, always has a continuous row of bristles making contact with the surface being cleaned, and these sections are attached to each other using hinges, or hinge-like devices, and having constant tension that connects these sections, and allow each individual section to operate independently of one another, while always having the constant spring-like action of returning to a flat-like position when not being applied to contour to any angle or shape other than a flat surface, allowing the user to an easier, faster, and more efficient way to clean a swimming pool or other things alike. |
| US08528143B2 |
Device for removing manure from a floor
The present invention relates to an unmanned self-propelled and self-steering device for removing manure present on a floor, including a manure slide with a sliding wall which, when viewed in the customary direction of travel of the device, forms a first contact surface for manure present on the floor, and comprising a drive device for the travelling over the floor, wherein the drive device comprises a rotatingly driven drive which is in driving engagement with the floor during operation and which is located in front of the sliding wall. |
| US08528141B2 |
Dressing device for power brush
A power-brush apparatus has a housing, a brush rotatable on the housing about a brush axis and having bristles extending generally radially of the axis, and a drive that rotates the brush in a working direction about the axis and thereby orbits tips of the bristles about the axis. Thus when in use the brush is rotated in this working direction. A support immediately adjacent the housing carries a rigid grinding wheel having an abrasive outer surface. This wheel is biased radially against the bristle tips to sharpen and clean them while a drive relatively displaces the bristle tips and the grinding-wheel surface while the wheel is urged against the bristle tips such that the grinding wheel surface primarily engages rear sides of the bristle tips turned away from the working direction. |
| US08528135B2 |
Systems for relieving pressure sores and methods therefor
A pressure sore relief system includes a plurality of sensors in communication with a surface, whereby each sensor operates independently of one another for detecting a pressure level at a particular region of the surface and generating a feedback signal that corresponds to the detected pressure level, and a system controller adapted to receive the feedback signals from the sensors and generate a plurality of output signals in response to each of the feedback signals. The pressure sore relief system includes a plurality of actuators in communication with the surface and being adapted to receive the output signals from the system controller, whereby each output signal generated by the system controller is associated with one of the actuators. The actuators are adapted to selectively vibrate for minimizing the likelihood of a patient developing pressure sores. The pressure sore relief system may be positioned over a mattress or a chair. |
| US08528134B2 |
Method of preventing bed bugs from escaping a mattress encasement via a zipper opening
A mattress encasement made of bug impervious fabric provides a zipper opening for removal of the mattress. A foam pad is stitched at an end of the zipper closure such that when the zipper is located at or near the end, a channel is provided to prevent or obstruct the escapement of bed bugs via the channel and out from a mattress encased by the mattress encasement. |
| US08528133B2 |
Bedmaking system, bed and method for making a bed
A bedmaking system for a bed with a base mattress has a flexible topping mattress; two fastening feet; an U-shaped brace defined by two parallel arms and a bar connecting the arms. The arms are each pivotly mounted to a fastening foot for pivoting around a common axis between a normal position and an assisting position. The bar extends along the first length edge of the topping mattress and is mounted to said first length edge. The second length edge of the topping mattress extends along the second length side of the base mattress. |
| US08528132B2 |
Mattress carrier and such a mattress carrier provided with mattress
A mattress carrier (1) comprising a first part (3) which comprises a support surface (2) for supporting a mattress which is positioned on top of the support surface (2) and a second part (4) supporting the first part (3), the first part (3) being resilient in height direction and partially compressible when subjected to a load, characterized in that the first part (3) comprises a resilient insert (11) and in that the resilient insert (11) comprises a reversibly compressible substantially diamagnetic material which is substantially air-permeable. |
| US08528131B2 |
Folding cot
An improved sleeping or camping cot construction is provided in which the end rails of the cot frame are pivotally mounted along their center along a channel member so that downward forces on the cot in its normal operating position improves the stability of the cot by forcing the end rails into engagement with the channel member. The channel member also encloses the pivot points of the end rails from inadvertent contact a user during the pivot operation of the end rails. |
| US08528126B2 |
Apparatus and/or device for personal hygiene
An apparatus and/or device for personal hygiene by a person who is confined to a room or bed includes a first clean water storage tank, a second used water storage tank and a basin between the two tanks and wherein the first tank is disposed above the basin and the used water tank is below the basin. The apparatus and device also includes four adjustable legs with casters thereon as well as a frame assembly including upper and lower frame portions. A pair of forwardly extending arms and privacy curtains provides a modicum of privacy. In addition a fluid soap dispenser, soap dish and mirror as well as an electric blow dryer, retractable electric cord and electrical sockets are also provided. |
| US08528125B1 |
Basin device for use in washing the hair of a person sitting upright
A portable washbasin assembly that is used to catch water when a person is having his/her hair washed. A basin is provided that rests on the shoulders of the person. This enables the person to have his/her hair washed while sitting upright or near upright. The basin has a bottom surface through which is disposed a generally centralized opening. An outer vertical wall extends around the periphery of the bottom surface. An inner vertical wall extends upwardly from the bottom surface around the centralized opening. A flexible membrane is stretched over the centralized opening between sections of the inner vertical wall. The flexible membrane contains a hole that is positioned over the below lying centralized opening. |
| US08528124B2 |
Flushing apparatus for a vacuum toilet having a nozzle arrangement
A vacuum-operated sanitary device, in particular a vacuum toilet, comprising a bowl and a flushing device, with the flushing device comprising a nozzle arrangement with a nozzle inlet of a first cross section, a nozzle outlet of a second cross section, which nozzle outlet is directed onto an interior wall of the bowl, and a nozzle duct of a third cross section, which nozzle duct connects the nozzle inlet with the nozzle outlet, wherein the third cross section is smaller than both the first cross section and the second cross section; a first delivery device connected to the nozzle inlet, wherein the first delivery device is designed to deliver a first flushing medium; and a second delivery device that opens into the nozzle duct, wherein the second delivery device is designed to deliver a second flushing medium. |
| US08528120B2 |
Flame resistant fabric made from a fiber blend
Fire resistant garments are disclosed made from a fabric containing a fiber blend. The fiber blend contains meta-aramid fibers, fire resistant cellulose fibers, non-aromatic polyamide fibers, and optionally para-aramid fibers. The non-aromatic polyamide fibers are present in an amount sufficient to dramatically improve the abrasion resistance of the fabric without adversely interfering with the flame resistant properties. In addition to abrasion resistance, the particular blend of fibers has also been found to dramatically improve or increase various other properties. In one embodiment, the fabric is made with a herringbone weave which has been found to unexpectedly improve tear properties and porosity. |
| US08528118B2 |
Sports helmet
The present invention provides a protective sports helmet for a wearer engaged in a contact sport, such as football. The helmet includes a shell having a front region, a rear region, two side regions, and an ear flap depending from a side region. A jaw flap extends forwardly from each ear flap, wherein the jaw flap overlies an extent of a mandible of the wearer. The shell also includes a raised central band that extends from the front region across the crown to the rear region. The central band has lower side portions that extend from the rear region towards the side region of the shell and terminate proximate an ear opening in the shell. The central band has a width defined by a pair of opposed sidewalls that extend transversely from an outer surface of the shell. The shell also includes a first plurality of vent openings aligned along a first side of the raised central band and a second plurality of vent openings aligned along a second side of the band. |
| US08528117B2 |
Gloves for touchscreen use
A glove that enables the wearer to interact with a capacitive touchscreen without removing the glove has a first portion formed from a non-conductive knitted material and a second portion formed from an electrically conductive yarn. Exemplary is the finger tip portions of the thumb and index finger being formed from the electrically conductive yarn and the remainder of the finger tips being formed from the non conductive yarn. The second, conductive, portion may include a non-conductive yarn with an electrically conductive fiber distributed uniformly therethrough. |
| US08528115B2 |
Zipper arrangement with foldable pull
A garment with a zipper arrangement includes a collar, a plurality of right zipper elements provided along a front right portion of the garment, and a plurality of left zipper elements provided along the front left portion of the garment. A slider includes a front side, a top side, and a back side. The slider is configured to slide up as far as the collar and bring the plurality of right zipper elements into engagement with the plurality of left zipper elements. The slider is further configured to slide down and disengage the plurality of right zipper elements from the plurality of left zipper elements. A flexible pull member is coupled to the slider. The flexible pull member is designed and dimensioned to extend over the top side of the slider and be releasably coupled to an inner portion of the garment when the slider is at the collar. |
| US08533857B2 |
Methods for providing cross-vendor support services
According to one aspect, a first request is received at a services application programming interface (API) of a support center from a first user for a first product provided by a first client. A second request is received at the services API of the support center from a second user for a second product provided by a second client. A first knowledgebase (KB) associated with the first client and a second KB associated with the second client are identified. A third KB that contains information common to the first product and the second product is identified. The first KB and the third KB are enabled to be accessible by a first agent assigned to provide support services of the first product. The second KB and the third KB are enabled to be accessible by a second agent assigned to provide support services of the second product. |
| US08533855B2 |
Secure detection network system
A secure detection network system includes plurality of remote nodes, each remote node comprising a set of detector interfaces configured to couple to a set of detectors disposed to detect the presence of an illegal asset within a shipping container; at least one server node configured to initialize, install, and authenticate each remote node in the plurality of remote nodes, including delivering to each remote node an agent module, said agent module for each remote node comprising a node specific configuration file defining a set of nodes with which the remote node can communicate and a different encryption means corresponding to each node in the set of nodes; and a communication path coupling the plurality of remote nodes and the at least one server node. |
| US08533854B2 |
Systems and methods for secure transaction management and electronic rights protection
The present invention provides systems and methods for secure transaction management and electronic rights protection. Electronic appliances such as computers equipped in accordance with the present invention help to ensure that information is accessed and used only in authorized ways, and maintain the integrity, availability, and/or confidentiality of the information. Such electronic appliances provide a distributed virtual distribution environment (VDE) that may enforce a secure chain of handling and control, for example, to control and/or meter or otherwise monitor use of electronically stored or disseminated information. Such a virtual distribution environment may be used to protect rights of various participants in electronic commerce and other electronic or electronic-facilitated transactions. Distributed and other operating systems, environments and architectures, such as, for example, those using tamper-resistant hardware-based processors, may establish security at each node. These techniques may be used to support an all-electronic information distribution, for example, utilizing the “electronic highway.” |
| US08533848B2 |
Method and system for producing multimedia fingerprint based on quantum hashing
Disclosed are a method and system for producing a multimedia fingerprint based on quantum hashing. The method includes receiving an input of a multimedia file, extracting a quantum hash type fingerprint from the input multimedia file, calculating similarity between the extracted quantum hash type fingerprint and a binary fingerprint stored in a database, and selecting, as a calculation result, data having a fingerprint calculated as having the highest similarity. |
| US08533847B2 |
Apparatus and method for screening new data without impacting download speed
Data to be screened for undesired content can be quickly downloaded into a non-volatile storage of a system, stored in a manner so as to be unavailable to the system for general use, and then screened later at a convenient time regardless of whether the data source is still available. At the time of screening, a screening module retrieves the data objects stored in the non-volatile storage and indicates whether they comply with screening criteria. Data objects not complying with the screening criteria are either deleted or otherwise made unavailable for general use by the system. By retaining the data objects that do not comply with the screening criteria, the downloaded content remains available for a different system having less restrictive or otherwise different screening criteria. |
| US08533843B2 |
Device, method, and program product for determining an overall business service vulnerability score
A device, method, and program product are disclosed which are configured to receive, at a risk analysis engine, one or more business service models from a configuration management database, wherein the one or more business service models each comprises a set of configuration items, and wherein the one or more business service models each indicate a type of configuration item and a connectivity of the configuration item; send the set of configuration items to a vulnerability assessment tool; receive, from the vulnerability assessment tool, one or more vulnerability assessment scores for each configuration item within the set of configuration items; determine an overall business service vulnerability score for each of one or more business services based on the one or more business service models and the vulnerability assessment scores received from the vulnerability assessment tool; and output electronically the overall business service vulnerability score. |
| US08533842B1 |
Method and apparatus for evaluating internet resources using a computer health metric
A method for assessing network safety using a computer health metric comprises processing internet resource information, wherein a portion of the internet resource information comprises one or more internet resources that were accessed during a period of network activity associated with an impact on a computer health and analyzing one or more internet resource to determine a candidate internet resource, wherein a candidate internet resource is related to the impact on computer health. |
| US08533837B2 |
System and method for network edge data protection
Disclosed are systems and methods which examine information communication streams to identify and/or eliminate malicious code, while allowing the good code to pass unaffected. Embodiments operate to provide spam filtering, e.g., filtering of unsolicited and/or unwanted communications. Embodiments provide network based or inline devices that scan and scrub information communication in its traffic pattern. Embodiments are adapted to accommodate various information communication protocols, such as simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP), post office protocol (POP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), Internet message access protocol (IMAP), file transfer protocol (FTP), domain name service (DNS), and/or the like, and/or routing protocols, such as hot standby router protocol (HSRP), border gateway protocol (BGP), open shortest path first (OSPF), enhanced interior gateway routing protocol (EIGRP), and/or the like. |
| US08533836B2 |
Identifying software execution behavior
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for identifying software execution behavior. Embodiments of the invention can be used to assist a user in a making a reasoned and informed decision about whether the behavior of executable code is malicious. Data indicative of executable code behavior can be collected statically without having to execute the executable code. Behavior data can be collected essentially automatically with little, if any, user involvement. A user initiates analysis of executable code and is provided a visual categorized representation of behavior data for the executable code. |
| US08533833B2 |
System, a method, and a data-structure for processing system calls in a computerized system that implements a kernel
A computer implementing a kernel, the computer including: a processor that is configured to run processes in kernel mode and to run other processes not in kernel mode, wherein the processor is configured to run in the kernel mode the following processes: (a) determining selection parameters that relates to a system call requesting an operation by a hardware device, by processing information of the system call; (b) deterministically selecting a single data-structure element (DSE) of a data-structure in response to a type of the system call, to at least one other determined selection parameter, and to a status of an activity flag included in the DSE that indicates an availability of the DSE for selection; wherein the selecting includes selecting a DSE that includes an activity flag that indicates that the DSE is available for selection; wherein at least one DSE of the data-structure is an inactive DSE that includes an activity flag indicating that the inactive DSE is not available for selection; (c) modifying an activity flag of at least one DSE of the data-structure, in response to activeness instructions stored in the DSE selected; (d) assigning a priority to the system call in response to a content of the DSE selected; and (e) selectively enabling fulfillment of the operation by the hardware device, in response to the priority assigned to the system call. |
| US08533832B2 |
Network infrastructure validation of network management frames
A detection-based defense to a wireless network. Elements of the infrastructure, e.g., access points or scanning-only access points, detect intruders by detecting spoofed frames, such as from rogue access points. Access points include a signature, such as a message integrity check, with their management frames in a manner that enables neighboring access points to be able to validate the management frames, and to detect spoofed frames. When a neighboring access point receives a management frame, obtains a key for the access point sending the frame, and validates the management frame using the key. |
| US08533830B1 |
System, method, and computer program product for mounting an image of a computer system in a pre-boot environment for validating the computer system
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for mounting an image of a computer system in a pre-boot environment for validating the computer system. In use, an image of a computer system is mounted in a pre-boot environment of the computer system, where the image includes a file system structure and initialization data of the computer system. Furthermore, at least one task is performed on the mounted image for validating the computer system. |
| US08533828B2 |
System for protecting security of a provisionable network
Disclosed is a system for protecting security of a provisionable network, comprising: a network server, a network client communicatively coupled with the server, a pool of resources coupled with the server for employment by the client, a resource management system for managing the resources, and an intrusion detection system enabled to detect and respond to an intrusion in said network. |
| US08533827B2 |
Scalable anti-replay windowing
The present disclosure provides a method for scalable anti-replay windowing. According to one exemplary embodiment, the method may include receiving at least one data packet having at least one new sequence number. The method may also include comparing the at least one new sequence number to an anti-replay window configured to prevent packet replay, the anti-replay window having at least one existing sequence number. The method may further include shifting the contents of the anti-replay window by varying the location of a starting index and an ending index. Of course, additional embodiments, variations and modifications are possible without departing from this embodiment. |
| US08533826B2 |
Method for protecting the source code of a computer program
A method for protection of a computer program source code comprising the following steps: translating said source code into a target code, generating an object code starting from said target code, applying an obfuscation program to protect said source code. The obfuscation step is executed after the source code has been translated into target code and before the generation of said object code. |
| US08533823B2 |
System and method for source IP anti-spoofing security
A system and method that provides for using source IP addresses and MAC addresses in a network to provide security against attempts by users of the network to use false source IP addresses in data packets. The system and method provide for analyzing MAC addresses and source IP addresses at the datalink (layer 2) level, and to use the information derived from such analysis to block access through a port where a host device is using a false, or spoofed, source IP address in transmitted data packets. Further, the system and method provide for validating initially learned source IP addresses, and for determining whether the number of unsuccessful attempts to validate new source IP addresses exceeds a threshold level, and where the number does exceed the threshold number the system and method can provide for operation in a possible attack mode. |
| US08533816B2 |
Method of securing a changing scene, corresponding device, signal and computer program, method of updating a changing scene, corresponding device and computer program
The invention relates to a method of securing a changing scene composed of at least one element and intended to be played back on a terminal. According to the invention, such a method comprises the following steps: creation (10) of at least one security rule, defining at least one authorization to modify said scene and/or at least one element of said scene and/or an authorization to execute at least one command in a context of playing back said scene on said terminal; allocation (10) of a security policy, comprising at least one of said security rules, to said scene and/or to at least one of said elements of said scene. |
| US08533815B1 |
False reject mitigation using non-biometric authentication
Providing secondary non-biometric authentication to identify a user following a failure of a biometric authentication based on a biometric template. In one embodiment, a knowledge-based authentication scheme may be provided. In another embodiment, a one-time password authentication scheme may be provided. An identity of the user may be confirmed using the non-biometric based authentication scheme. |
| US08533810B2 |
Client-side security management for an operations, administration, and maintenance system for wireless clients
An Operations, Administration, and Maintenance (OA&M) 16 provides security for managed resources on a wireless client device 10 at many levels of granularity, from the entire device, to subsystems, to software and hardware components, services and applications, down to individual attributes. |
| US08533806B2 |
Method for authenticating a trusted platform based on the tri-element peer authentication(TEPA)
A method for authenticating a trusted platform based on the Tri-element Peer Authentication (TePA). The method includes the following steps: A) a second attesting system sends the first message to a first attesting system; B) the first attesting system sends a second message to the second attesting system after receiving the first message; C) the second attesting system sends a third message to a Trusted Third Party (TTP) after receiving the second message; D) the TTP sends a fourth message to the second attesting system after receiving the third message; E) the second attesting system sends a fifth message to the first attesting system after receiving the fourth message; and F) the first attesting system performs an access control after receiving the fifth message. The method for authenticating a trusted platform based on TePA of the present invention adopts the security architecture of TePA, and improves the safety of an evaluation agreement of the trusted platform, realizes the mutual evaluation of the trusted platform between the attesting systems, and extends the application ranges. |
| US08533805B2 |
Certificates to create product mappings
A server receives a consumer request pertaining to product asset management from a client. The consumer request comprises one or more product-related certificates that associates the client with one or more products. The product-related certificate comprises at least one extended attribute object identifier that has a corresponding product attribute. For each extended attribute object identifier, the server searches a data store to identify a product that corresponds to the extended attribute object identifier and generates a response to the consumer request based on the product that is identified in the data store. |
| US08533799B2 |
Service integration platform system and method for internet services
A service integration platform system includes an interface configured to receive a service request initiated by an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) and one or more processors configured to authenticate the service request and in the event that the service request is authenticated, route the service request to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) providing the service to be further processed. The service request is routed to a deployment environment provided by the ISP in the event that the service request is received on a deployment Universal Resource Identifier (URI) corresponding to the deployment environment; the service request is routed to a test environment provided by the ISP in the event that the service request is received on a test URI corresponding to the test environment. |
| US08533797B2 |
Using windows authentication in a workgroup to manage application users
An system for authenticating users of an application program executing at a front-end computer using the security features built into the operating system of a logon computer is provided. Initially, an administrator establishes user accounts for each user with an operating system executing at the logon computer with access to application resources. When the application program starts executing at the front-end computer, the application program prompts the user for credentials. The application program attempts to access resources managed by the logon computer using the received credentials. When access to a resource is successful, the application program knows that the logon computer has authenticated the user and the user is authorized to access the resource. In this manner, the application program can take advantage of the security features built into the operating system executing at the logon computer to authenticate users of the application program and authorize access to application resources. |
| US08533789B1 |
User management for repository manager
Authenticating a user is disclosed. An indication that a portal user wants to access a docbase is received. A non-user-specific credential is used to log in to the docbase on behalf of the portal user. Optionally, the docbase is configured to limit the portal user's access to the docbase, during times when the non-user-specific credential has been used to log in to the docbase on behalf of the portal user, to an extent of access that is associated with a user-specific data associated with the portal user. |
| US08533788B2 |
Wireless device network association
A method for associating handheld calculators with a network host system of a classroom network that includes receiving a service set identifier (SSID) of the classroom network by a handheld calculator, wherein the SSID includes a network mode indicator, and operating the handheld calculator according to the network mode indicator. The method may also include operating the handheld calculator in a configuration mode in which the handheld calculator sends a request for association to the network host system, wherein the request includes a unique identifier of the first handheld calculator, and acceptance of the request by the network host system, wherein authentication information for the handheld calculator is stored by the network host system to indicate that the first handheld calculator is associated with the classroom network. |
| US08533780B2 |
Dynamic content-based routing
Systems and methods for redirecting network traffic include a policy server configured to be in communication with a policy database and a client disposed on a remote device. The policy server is configured to receive an inquiry from the client regarding a universal resource locator (URL) request and, based on a policy obtained from the policy database, cause the client to control the remote device such that network traffic associated with the URL request is routed (tunneled) via a particular interface, e.g., a virtual private network (VPN) connection, when so required by the policy, and network traffic associated with the URL request is routed over a different VPN connection or a non-VPN connection when so required by the policy. |
| US08533778B1 |
System, method and computer program product for detecting unwanted effects utilizing a virtual machine
A security system, method and computer program product are provided. In use, a request destined to a target computer is received, utilizing a virtual machine. The request is processed to identify an unwanted effect associated therewith, utilizing the virtual machine. In addition, the target computer is allowed access to the request, based on the processing. |
| US08533775B2 |
Hierarchical policy management
A system and method for administering access to a central resource by a remote access device. A system includes a remote access device and a computer executing a hierarchical policy manager. The remote access device requests access to a central resource. The hierarchical policy manager determines a policy for allowing the device to access the resource by evaluating access policies at a plurality of precedence levels of a policy hierarchy. The hierarchical policy manager allows the device to access the resource based on the policy set at the highest precedence level of the policy hierarchy at which access control is specified. |
| US08533773B2 |
Methods and systems for implementing service level consolidated user information management
Embodiments of the invention provide methods and systems for implementing service level consolidated user information management. According to one embodiment, a method comprises intercepting, at a policy enforcer, a manipulation request of data. The method may further include analyzing the request to determine which data the manipulation request is associated with and, based on that analysis, selecting a policy from a plurality of policies. Furthermore, the method may execute the selected policy. The policy may be configured to direct the policy enforcer to allow the manipulation request to pass through to the associated destination data system to process the request, delegate processing of the manipulation request to at least one of a plurality of data systems, or process the manipulation request by the policy enforcer. |
| US08533770B2 |
Media processing system supporting user captured media display sequencing when in idle state
A system and method for supporting the playback of user captured media when in an idle state is disclosed. An embodiment of the present invention may permit a user to select media content to be displayed or played at one or more display devices interfaced to a media processing system, when the media processing system is in an idle state. The media content may comprise audio, still images, video, and data, and may be pushed to the media processing system via a communication network that may be the Internet. A user of a media processing system may select the media content using a media guide interface, and may choose when the media processing system enters an idle state. |
| US08533765B2 |
On demand system and method using dynamic broadcast scheduling
A system and method for broadcasting content includes a content provider which interfaces with one or more clients through a network. The content provider includes a scheduler responsive to requests for content from clients. The scheduler provides the content in blocks by making the blocks available to requesters by a plurality of streams wherein a subsequent requester accesses blocks from previous requester's streams complemented by a subset of blocks as a stream for this requester to complete an entire set of blocks for the subsequent requester. By manipulating the scheduler as a function of user requests, this system and method is able to provide a video on demand service at a fractional bandwidth usage of a conventional VOD system. |
| US08533764B2 |
System and method for regulating bandwidth in a multicast video transmission system
A video transmitter can adaptively alter its transmission rate to plural receivers which receive video via multicast transmission. While the transmitter is initially in the “no tuning state”, the need for a video tune-up state change can be determined. If so, then the state can be set to “tuning up” and the retransmission rate can be increased. However, if “tuning-up” is no longer required, the state returns to the “no tuning” state” Likewise, the need for a video tune down slate change can be determined and the retransmission rate can be decreased. However, if the state is set to “tuning down” and “tuning down” is no longer required, the state is set such that “tuning down” is no longer true and the state returns to the “no tuning” state. |
| US08533760B1 |
Reduced latency channel switching for IPTV
Systems and methods can be used to provide reduced latency in channel changing for interactive programming. In some implementations, such systems and methods can include identifying a rapid channel change mode and filtering older requests when a device detects the rapid channel change mode. In other implementations, such systems and methods can predict channel change requests and identify predicted channels associated with the predicted requests. The predicted channels can thereby be requested in advance. |
| US08533758B2 |
Retrieving service provider information and channel map via internet protocol connections
A digital television (DTV) receiver retrieves, from a memory, a standardized hostname and a standardized filename for a web-based service for providing a channel map associated with service providers. The DTV receiver adds, to the standardized hostname, a name for a particular service provider and sends, to a data server, a request for channel map information, where the request is based on the standardized hostname, the name for the particular service provider, and the standardized filename. The DTV receiver receivers, from the data server, a channel map file based on the standardized filename and extracts information from the channel map file to present to a user. |
| US08533755B1 |
Method for advertising decision resolution acceleration based on lookahead opportunity triggering
A computer implemented method and system for accelerating advertising placement decisions is disclosed. A server receives a source signal stream having a channel identifier and an indication that an advertisement placement opportunity is located in the signal stream a time period prior to an advertisement signal point. The server identifies a list representative of a plurality of recipient signal streams having the channel identifier and at least one audience attribute prior to expiration of the time period. The server obtains a plurality of targeted advertisements corresponding to the list representative of the plurality of recipient signal streams. The server stores the plurality of advertisements in at least one cache. |
| US08533753B2 |
Interactive product placement system and method therefor
A method for presenting advertisements for commercial products in video productions, whereby the commercial product is placed in the video production as an element of the video production. A viewer is enabled to interact with the video production to select the product. Information is then displayed about the selected product; and the viewer is enabled to purchase the selected product. |
| US08533746B2 |
Health integration platform API
An application program interface (API) is provided for requesting, storing, and otherwise accessing data within a health integration network. The API facilitates secure and seamless access to the centrally-stored data by offering authentication/authorization, as well as the ability to receive requests in an extensible language format, such as XML, and returns resulting data in XML format. The data can also have transformation, style and/or schema information associated with it which can be returned in the resulting XML and/or applied to the data beforehand by the API. The API can be utilized in many environment architectures including XML over HTTP and a software development kit (SDK). |
| US08533743B2 |
System and method of analyzing business process events
A method includes receiving a plurality of events that each include a plurality of associated attributes, analyzing the plurality of associated attributes in order to identify at least two or more related events, determining a time associated with each of the at least two or more related events from the plurality of associated attributes, ordering the at least two or more related events in chronological order based on the determined time associated with each of the at least two or more related events, and manipulating at least one of the at least two or more related events based on the ordering. |
| US08533742B2 |
Distributed messaging system supporting stateful subscriptions
A distributed messaging system supporting stateful subscriptions is provided. A stateful publish-subscribe system extends the functionality of the content-based approach to include more general state-valued expressions. Stateful subscriptions may refer to one or more message histories and may include more complex expressions. Therefore, subscribers may receive different information than that provided in the published messages. A plurality of broker machines is provided to deliver messages sent by publishing clients toward subscribing clients based upon the contents of the messages and stateful transformations requested by the subscribing clients. Subscription specifications are analyzed by a compiler and converted into a collection of transform objects and view objects. The messaging system builds a structure containing all transform objects and view objects needed for all intermediate and subscribed views of all subscriptions. This messaging system uses this structure to allocate transform objects and view objects to broker machines in the overlay network. |
| US08533740B2 |
Data processing system with intercepting instructions
A data processing system with intercepting instructions comprising an operating system for supporting processes, such that the process are associated with one or more resources and the operating system being arranged to police the accessing by processes of resources so as to inhibit a process from accessing resources with which it is not associated. Part of this system is an interface for interfacing between each process and the operating system and a memory for storing state information for at least one process. The interface may be arranged to analyze instructions from the processes to the operating system, and upon detecting an instruction to re-initialize a process cause state information corresponding to that pre-existing state information to be stored in the memory as state information for the re-initialized process and to be associated with the resource. |
| US08533737B2 |
System and method for interfacing distributed systems with different frameworks
An improved method and system for interfacing two distributed computing systems each implemented using different frameworks and different protocols. A gateway service provides some of the other services operating on a first system with software proxies capable of translating commands from clients in a second system. The gateway service also registers the first system's services with the registry service of the second system. Clients in the second system are thereby able to locate services in the first system and send commands in their native protocols to the first system services. Services in the first system are capable of, by use of the proxies, receiving, processing and responding to commands from the second system clients. |
| US08533730B2 |
Stream data processing method, stream data processing program and stream data processing apparatus for runtime query group data stagnation detection and load balancing
Once data stagnation occurs in a query group which groups queries, a scheduler of a server apparatus calculates an estimated load value of each query forming the query group based on at least one of input flow rate information and latency information of the query. The scheduler divides the queries of the query group into a plurality query groups so that the sum of estimated load values of queries belonging to one query group becomes substantially equal to the sum of estimated load values of queries belonging to another query group. The divided query groups are reallocated to different processors respectively. Throughput in query processing of stream data in a stream data processing system can be improved. |
| US08533727B2 |
Method for analysing the real-time capability of a system
The invention provides a method for analysing the real-time capability of a system, in particular a computer system, where various tasks are provided, wherein the tasks are repeatedly performed and wherein an execution of a task is triggered by an activation of the task and this represents an event of the task, wherein a plurality of descriptive elements are provided to describe the time correlation of the events as event stream, wherein the event streams may detect the maximum time densities of the events and/or the minimum time densities of the events, and wherein at least a further descriptive element to which an amount of event streams is assigned and which describes the time correlation of an entirety of events which are captured by at least two event streams. |
| US08533723B1 |
Computing device application framework
Systems and methods of providing a computing device application framework. The framework serves as a platform upon which the desktop applications share common data and logic. The framework may include an application component exposes application programming interfaces (APIs) that provides installed applications access to data and services, a download component that maintains versions of the applications installed on a computing device, and a license component that tracks data use and access. |
| US08533720B2 |
Offloading work from one type to another type of processor based on the count of each type of service call instructions in the work unit
A work unit (e.g., a load module) to be executed on one processor may be eligible to be offloaded and executed on another processor that is heterogeneous from the one processor. The other processor is heterogeneous in that is has a different computing architecture and/or different instruction set from the one processor. A determination is made as to whether the work unit is eligible for offloading. The determination is based, for instance, on the particular type of instructions (e.g., particular type of service call and/or program call instructions) included in the work unit and whether those types of instructions are supported by the other processor. If the instructions of the work unit are supported by the other processor, then the work unit is eligible for offloading. |
| US08533717B2 |
Fast platform independent inter-process communication
A system and method are described for performing data processing using shared memory. In one embodiment, a request to perform a transaction is received at a memory. The memory includes a shared memory to provide a common access to a plurality of components including a plurality of work processes and a plurality of worker nodes. The request is then cached at the memory and later assigned to an available work process for performance. |
| US08533716B2 |
Resource management in a multicore architecture
A method and apparatus for resource management in a multicore processor is disclosed. A system management controller (130) provides omnipresent scheduling, synchronization, load balancing, and power and memory management services to each processing resource (150) within in a multicore processor (10), via a plurality of system management clients (120) implemented in hardware or software. The controller (130) allocates the tasks executing in each processing resource (150) by means of interrupt control signals, which interact directly with the system management clients (120), enabling processing resources (150) to autonomously create, execute and distribute tasks around a parallel system architecture whilst monitoring and policing the use of shared system resources (140). |
| US08533715B2 |
Virtual machine management
A virtual machine management method and system is provided. The method includes receiving by a computing system, a list of virtual machines deployed within an enterprise. The computing system determines that a specified time period has elapsed during deployment and a list of resources and transactions associated with the virtual machines is retrieved. The computing system calculates a cost value and service value for deploying the virtual machines and a premium value associated with the services. The computing system determines if the premium value is within a policy for the enterprise. |
| US08533713B2 |
Efficent migration of virtual functions to enable high availability and resource rebalance
A computing platform (source) supporting virtualization comprises a plurality of virtual machines each including a virtual function driver and a guest operating system, and a hardware block including a plurality of virtual functions and visible states and invisible states. The virtual function driver or a guest OS or a virtual machine monitor further includes a self-emulation layer to create a shadow state, which emulates the invisible states of the virtual function, which is to be migrated. The virtual function driver uses contents of the shadow state to migrate one or more of the plurality of virtual functions to a target virtual machine. The source and the target virtual machines are included in a cloud data center and the virtual functions, migrated to the target virtual machine is highly available to provide services. |
| US08533711B2 |
Method and system for adjusting a selection algorithm for selecting a candidate host with a highest memory sharing history value with a target virtual machine from amongst a set of host machines that have a standard deviation of memory sharing history with the virtual machine below a threshold amount
A mechanism for shared memory history optimization in a host selection algorithm for VM placement is disclosed. A method of embodiments of the invention includes determining candidate hosts to place a target virtual machine (VM), obtaining memory sharing history of the target VM with one or more VMs hosted by each of the candidate hosts, determining an average memory sharing history amount for each of an optimized number of the candidate hosts based on the obtained memory sharing history of the target VM with one or more VMs hosted by each of the optimized number of candidate hosts, and adjusting a score in a general selection algorithm for a candidate host with the highest average memory sharing history amount. |
| US08533710B1 |
Using observed thread activity to dynamically tune a virtual machine for responsiveness
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that uses observed thread activity to dynamically tune a virtual machine for responsiveness and/or throughput. During operation, the system observes the activity of a thread to determine whether the thread needs responsiveness and/or throughput. Next, the system gathers statistics for the thread based on these observations of thread activity, and then uses these statistics to dynamically tune a virtual machine upon which the thread will execute. |
| US08533709B2 |
Changing frequency of a virtual programmable interrupt timer in virtual machines to control virtual time
A catch-up mode that runs a virtual programmable interrupt timer faster than a nominal rate to prevent time loss in a virtual machine can be implemented. If time loss is determined, a catch-up mode can be initiated to cause increased firings, beyond a nominal rate, of the programmable interrupt timer to adjust the clock of the virtual machine to the clock of the host system. The virtual programmable interrupt timer can also be readjusted to a predetermined nominal rate when the time loss in the guest operating system is determined approximately within a predetermined tolerance range. The catch-up mode can be monitored to avoid “interrupt storms” on the virtual machine. The virtual programmable interrupt timer can be altered by the guest operating system to accommodate different operating systems. |