| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08573875B2 |
Applicator for a fluid product such as a cosmetic product
The invention relates to an applicator for a fluid product such as a cosmetic product, of the type including: a container (101) having an outlet, a control ring (133) which is mounted to the container such that it can move between a closed position in which it seals the outlet and an open position in which it opens the outlet, and an application member (155) which is mounted to the control ring such as to communicate with the outlet when the ring is in the open position. The control ring is rotatably mounted to the container, abutment means (129, 135) being provided in order to stop the travel of the ring towards the closed position thereof. |
| US08573872B2 |
Terminal unit consisting of side by side arranged base unit and printer
A terminal unit comprising a base unit, in turn including a main body and a scanning device located in front of the main body, and a printing unit, distinct from the base unit, in which the scanning device has a width greater than that of the main body so that it has a lateral portion protruding from the latter, and also in which the base unit has a seat, defined by one edge of the main body and by the protruding portion of the scanning device, so as to removably accommodate the printing unit beside the base unit and behind the scanning device. The terminal unit, in the configuration with base unit and printer side by side, presents a clearance in the transverse direction that is significantly lower than the sum of the transverse clearances of the scanning device and of the printer, and in particular is within preestablished limits, so that the terminal unit can be used to advantage to replace existing terminals quickly and easily. |
| US08573871B2 |
Paper cutting device and a printer with a paper cutting device
A printer has a main frame with a roll paper compartment for storing roll paper and a printing mechanism for printing on the roll paper; a cover frame movably connected to the main frame and having an openable cover for the roll paper compartment; a movable blade frame disposed to the main frame for supporting first and second movable blades with the blade tips in opposition; a stationary blade frame disposed to the cover frame for supporting a stationary blade in a position substantially transverse to the paper transportation path during cutting; and a movable blade drive mechanism for linking and driving the first and second movable blades to cut the roll paper in a scissor action against the stationary blade and such that one movable blade leads and the other movable blade follows, with the movable blades disposed such that the paths of the tips overlap during cutting. |
| US08573861B2 |
Audio jacks with optical and electrical paths
Electronic devices are provided that communicate over cables and other communications paths that include optical and electrical paths. A cable may include wires for forming an electrical path and one or more optical fibers for forming an optical path. Connectors at one or both ends of the cable may include electrical contacts and an optical coupling structure associated with the optical path. Optical paths may be included in connectors such as tip-ring-sleeve connectors and connectors of other types. Interface circuitry may be included in a connector to convert between optical and electrical signaling schemes. Wavelength-division-multiplexing may be used to support bidirectional communications. Breakout boxes and other equipment may be connected using the cables. Digital signals such as digital noise cancellation signals may be conveyed over the optical paths. Power and other electrical signals may be conveyed over the electrical paths. |
| US08573860B2 |
Pluggable optical network unit transceiver
In one example embodiment, a pluggable ONU transceiver module comprises a top shell, a bottom shell configured to mate with the top shell to form a cavity, and a PCB disposed within the cavity. A plurality of pins are coupled to the PCB and are configured to be inserted into a protruding socket of a host device through the bottom shell. The protruding socket is mounted on a PCB of the host device. The pluggable ONU transceiver module further comprises one or more guiding features integrated with the bottom shell and configured to ensure that the pins are inserted correctly into the protruding socket, and means for positioning the top shell at a predetermined height above the PCB of the host device to allow coupling of the top shell to a heatsink of the host device. |
| US08573858B2 |
Field terminable fiber optic connector assembly
An assembly includes a connector and a carrier engaged therewith. Connector has a first mating end and a second end and a first fiber. The fiber defines a first end adjacent the mating end and a second end protruding from the connector second end. Carrier has a connector end and an opposite cable end and includes a heat activated meltable portion adjacent the cable end. An alignment structure is on the carrier and includes first and second ends, and a throughhole. The first end of the alignment structure receives the second end of the first fiber and the second end receives an end of a second fiber entering the carrier. The heat activated portion melts and assumes a flowable condition when exposed to a predetermined amount of heat and resolidifies when heat is removed, bonding the second fiber to the carrier after the first and second fibers are aligned. |
| US08573851B2 |
Needle roller bearing with rimless inner ring
A needle roller bearing, which has a rimless inner ring or a rimless inner ring bushing and a plurality of rolling elements that are arranged and rotatable in the cage. For coherence of the needle roller bearing after manufacturing and for mounting in an installation space, the cage has, at least on one front end, a radially inward pointing retaining device and the inner ring or the inner ring bushing has a retaining element on its outer periphery that cooperates with the retaining device. |
| US08573850B2 |
Support arrangement for the axially and radially yielding support of a shaft bearing
The invention relates to a support arrangement for the yielding support of a shaft bearing, having a radial inner support ring, into which the shaft bearing can be installed, and having a bearing housing for fixing the support arrangement. The radial inner support ring is connected to the bearing housing via a connection structure such that the radial inner support ring can be deflected from an initial position relative to the bearing housing with respect to a central axis of the shaft bearing both in the axial and radial directions from a starting position. The deflection delimitation device delimits the axial deflection of the radial inner support ring relative to the hearing housing in the axial direction. |
| US08573847B2 |
Linear motion guide unit
A linear motion guide unit is provided, which is capable of preventing the variation in the position of a roller cage assembly caused by sliding motions of the roller cage assembly between a first guide rail and a second guide rail, without reducing the number of rollers. The linear motion guide unit includes first and second guide rails having track portions formed concavedly to have a V-shaped section on the faces opposing each other; and a roller cage assembly disposed between the first and second guide rails and having a plurality of rollers located between the first and second guide rails and ring-shaped pinions adapted to surround the rollers. |
| US08573846B2 |
Bearing arrangement for a telescopic axle
An extendible axle member (146 or 148) is provided for a pivoting axle of an agricultural harvester (100), the extendible axle member (146 or 148) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142 or 144), wherein the elongate telescopic portion (400) is formed integral with and abuts a C-frame for supporting a steering knuckle (158 or 160). |
| US08573842B2 |
Sensor control circuit and sensor
A sensor control circuit for controlling a sensor unit for measuring a physical value includes a timing controller which selects periodically one or more sensor units among multiple sensor units and converts an output signal from the sensor unit to a continuous serial input signal, an oscillator which receives the serial input signal input by the controller and outputs a frequency signal corresponding to the output signal detected by the sensor unit, a counter which counts for a predetermined duration a number of pulses of the frequency signal output from the oscillator, a data converter which converts the number of pulses to voltage data and outputs the data, and an RLC selector which inputs to the converter information indicating a characteristic value on which the number of pulses is based. The characteristic value is resistance, inductance or electrostatic capacitance. The sensor units measure physical values, respectively. |
| US08573835B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring thermal conductivity of small, highly insulating specimens
A method and apparatus for the measurement of thermal conductivity combines the following capabilities: 1) measurements of very small specimens; 2) measurements of specimens with thermal conductivity on the same order of that as air; and, 3) the ability to use air as a reference material. Care is taken to ensure that the heat flow through the test specimen is essentially one-dimensional. No attempt is made to use heated guards to minimize the flow of heat from the hot plate to the surroundings. Results indicate that since large correction factors must be applied to account for guard imperfections when specimen dimensions are small, simply measuring and correcting for heat from the heater disc that does not flow into the specimen is preferable. |
| US08573834B2 |
Connectionless cooling system
Mobile devices are re-supplied with fluids on a periodic basis thereby eliminating the need to maintain a permanent connection between an external fluid supply and the moving device. Electronic scanning devices generate heat and operate at varying and high temperature conditions that interfere with operations of the scanner heads. Circulating a heat transfer fluid through the sensor head removes excess heat from heat sensitive regions of the sensor head during operations. Once the heat transfer fluid reaches a predetermined temperature or after passage of a predetermined length of time, the scanner head is maneuvered to a docking station where it is coupled to an external heat fluid source where fresh fluid is supplied to the scanner head. |
| US08573832B2 |
Barrel for a self winding timepiece
Barrel for a self-winding timepiece including a drum of axis AA provided with an internal lateral wall having friction surfaces alternating with locking structures forming salient or inward edges at the boundary of the friction surfaces and a mainspring forming a winding including an outer coil, which is friction coupled to said internal lateral wall and free to slip against said internal lateral wall in the event of overwinding of the mainspring, characterized in that said friction surfaces are demarcated, downstream relative to the direction in which said outer coil slips, by a rounded salient edge or an inward edge. |
| US08573831B2 |
Methods and systems for mixing materials
The present invention relates generally to methods and systems for mixing at least two different solid materials (e.g., adsorbents) and loading the mixture into a vessel, such as an adsorption vessel or reactor. |
| US08573830B2 |
Mixing device
A device is provided for mixing mixable and unmixable liquids and/or producing emulsions, which has a first connection to a pressure-operated system and second connection for supplying the liquid to be admixed and which is sucked in by the flow of the pressurized liquid. |
| US08573828B2 |
Method and a device for plasticizing and transporting polymer material based on elongation rheology
A method for plasticating and conveying macromolecular materials based on elongational flow and equipment thereof are disclosed. A set of spaces having specific shape is used, and the volume of the spaces can increase and decrease periodically, and the materials flow into the spaces when the volume is increasing; and are pressed, plasticated and discharged when the volume is decreasing, so that the plasticating and conveying process is mainly under normal stress. A vane-type plasticating and conveying unit mainly comprises a cylindrical hollow stator; a columned rotor eccentrically installed in the inner cavity of the stator, wherein a group of rectangular slots are formed along the circumference of the rotor; a plurality of vanes which are arranged evenly in the slots and baffles mounted on the two sides of the stator. The inner surface of the stator, the outer surface of the rotor, the two vanes, and the two baffles surround to form the spaces having specific shape. The vane-type plasticating and conveying unit and various screw-type extruding unit or various plunger-injection unit can be combined to form a vane-type plasticating and injection device of an extruder or injection machine. The present invention is of short material thermo-mechanical history, low energy consumption, wide adaptability, and small volume. |
| US08573823B2 |
Solid-state luminaire
In one embodiment, a solid-state luminaire has a strip of high power LEDs, where each LED emits light into an optical coupler. Light from the optical coupler is then coupled into a light guide. Light coupled into the light guide is mixed and guided to an exit aperture of the light guide. An optical extractor proximate the exit aperture of the light guide redirects light outward, which is optionally redirected generally downward by a secondary reflector that extends outwardly along the length of the light guide. The secondary reflector may be configured to create a variety of light-emission patterns. The luminaire may be hung from a ceiling, in track lighting, used as a pendant or pedestal fixture, or in other applications. |
| US08573822B2 |
Vehicular lamp
In a vehicular lamp, a first zone includes a first incident portion disposed on a radiation axis. A first light guide portion guides light incident from the first incident portion forward. A first radiation portion formed from a first concave surface and a second concave surface deflects the light from the first light guide portion toward a lamp optical axis side and radiates such light forward in a diffused manner. A second zone includes a cylindrical second incident portion disposed on an outer side of the first incident portion. A second light guide portion that is longer in the direction of the radiation axis than the first light guide portion guides light incident from the second incident portion forward. A cylindrical second radiation portion radiates the light from the second light guide portion forward. |
| US08573820B2 |
Modular LED based aircraft rear position light
A rear position light-emitting diode (LED) light module for use on an aircraft. The light module includes a single printed circuit board (PCB), at least one light emitting diode attached to a first surface of the PCB and a single reflector and baffle device attached to the PCB. The baffle device provides an illumination pattern having a predefined angular pattern in the first plane. The illumination pattern does not overlap with light illuminated by port and starboard position lights of the aircraft. The baffle device includes a base section being planar, the base section comprises a cavity, first and second side sections attached to a first surface of the base section on opposing sides of the cavity, the first and second side sections intersect the first plane but not the second plane and a plurality of snap fittings attached to a second side of the base section. |
| US08573818B2 |
Luminaire with rotating and removable door
A luminaire including a housing with a service compartment that is accessible through an opening in the housing, a light source, electrical components disposed in the service compartment for powering and operating the light source, and a door rotatably connected to the housing for rotation between a closed position where the door covers the opening and an open position where the door does not cover the opening. The rotatable connection includes an asymmetric pin extending from the door and a cavity formed in the housing having a hinge opening of width W. The asymmetric pin has a cross sectional thickness t and a cross sectional height h. Width W is less than height h and greater than thickness t, such that the pin is removable through the hinge opening when the door is in a removal position where the pin thickness t is aligned to the hinge opening width W. |
| US08573817B2 |
Light device with enhanced flow rate and cooling efficiency and reduced noise and a cooling unit thereof
A light device including a housing, a cooling unit and a light emitting unit is disclosed. The housing has an assembly opening and an electrical base. The cooling unit is in the housing and has a heat dissipating seat, a driving member electrically connecting with the electrical base, and a fan wheel rotatably coupled with the driving member. The heat dissipating seat has a lateral wall coupled with the housing, an inner air channel formed in the lateral wall, a base portion arranged in the inner air channel for the driving member to be mounted, and at least one through hole penetrating the base portion and communicating with the inner air channel. The light emitting unit is coupled with the heat dissipating seat and electrically connects with the electrical base. An outer air channel is formed between the lateral wall and the housing. |
| US08573814B2 |
Object having internal cavities, light emitting diode assembly
An object with an internal cavity may serve as a cooling structure for a semiconductor package. The object includes a stack of form fitting bodies. The stack has a first form fitting body shaped according to the cavity with a first layer forming a partially form fitting surface, the first layer including a mixture of a first metal and an oxide of the first metal, and a second layer adjacent to the first layer. The second layer includes the first metal but less oxide of the first metal than the first layer. The stack has a second form fitting body shaped according to the cavity with a first layer forming a partially form fitting surface configured to conform to the partially form fitting surface of the first form fitting body. |
| US08573811B2 |
Backlight module with heat dissipating element and heat sink
A backlight module includes a light guide plate, a back plate, a heat-dissipating element, a light-emitting element, and at least one high-performance heat sink. The heat-dissipating element is disposed adjacent to a light incident surface of the light guide plate, and the heat-dissipating element has a bottom portion and a side portion forming an angle with the bottom portion. The light-emitting element is disposed on one side of the heat-dissipating element facing the light guide plate. The high-performance heat sink is disposed on the back plate, one end of the high-performance heat sink overlaps the heat-dissipating element, and another end of the high-performance heat sink extends away from the light-emitting element. |
| US08573809B2 |
Illumination device
An illumination device includes a plurality of light sources for emitting light and an optical member arranged in front of the light sources to control distribution of the light emitted from the light sources. The optical member includes a plurality of lens portions having storage recess portions formed in alignment with the light sources to accommodate the light sources and a plurality of ribs extending laterally from the lens portions to fix the lens portions to a substrate holding the light sources, each of the lens portions having a light distribution control portion formed in a rear opening edge of each of the storage recess portions to distribute frontward the light emitted from the light sources toward the ribs. |
| US08573803B2 |
Illumination device
An illumination device includes a housing having a light-emitting surface through which illumination light is irradiated and a plurality of LED units fixed to the housing in specified positions to emit the illumination light. The illumination device further includes a plurality of reflectors each having a reflection surface for reflecting the illumination light emitted from each of the LED units in a specified direction and a reflector attachment plate removably fixed to the housing. Each of the reflectors is adjustably attached to the reflector attachment plate in a specified orientation. |
| US08573800B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus comprising: an elongated-shaped LED unit provided with a plurality of lighting units on one surface in the thickness direction thereof, each of said lighting units having a LED chip; a reflective plate held by a main body; a lighting device for lighting the LED unit; and a heat radiation block to which said LED unit being replaceably attached, configured to dissipate the heat generated in the LED unit, and arranged at the other surface side in the thickness direction of the LED unit. The reflective plate has an installation portion for installing the LED unit. The heat radiation block is held by the reflective plate. The LED unit has a flat portion at light extracting surface from the lighting unit. The flat portion has the same plane with a surrounding area of the installation portion in a reflective surface of the reflective plate. |
| US08573797B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device is mounted onto a support structure, e.g., helmet. The lighting device includes a light body having forward facing light sources including a visible white light source, visible colored light source, an infrared light source and a side facing IFF light source. The light body includes switches for activating the visible light sources and a three-position switch for activating the IR and light sources. The light body mounts onto a mount assembly and includes a connector arrangement for slidably connecting to a platform of the mount assembly. A base member of the mount assembly includes a clamp that connects to a support structure. The light body and platform member may be swivelly moved relative to the base member by forcing the light body and platform member away from the base member and rotating the same. Also disclosed is boost circuitry, battery chemistry detection and control modes. |
| US08573793B2 |
Electrode plate for external electrode lamp and backlight
An electrode plate for an external electrode fluorescent lamp and a backlight are disclosed. The electrode plate for external electrode lamp comprising a strip pressure plate made of conductive material, wherein the strip pressure plate comprises a first surface on which at least one groove are provided and a second surface that is opposite to the first surface, the grooves run across both sides of the first surface and accommodate external electrodes of the external electrode lamps. |
| US08573791B2 |
High definition vehicular mirror
A vehicle mirror assembly having a housing or base member, a mirror lens and a connecting gasket member. The mirror lens is provided in the shape of a portion of an end of an ellipsoid. The lens has a varying radius of curvature. The center portion of the lens has a smaller radius of curvature than the outer portions along the major axis of the lens creating an improved field of view of the reflected image. |
| US08573788B2 |
Image projecting apparatus having an optical element shiftable in a direction having a component perpendicular to an optical axis
An image projecting apparatus includes an image display element, an optical system that projects an image displayed on the image display element onto a screen, an optical element that shifts in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of the optical system, an adjusting mechanism that can shift the optical element in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and a holding member that fixes the optical element to a lens barrel, wherein a combined Abbe number vdch of materials of the optical element with respect to a d-line, a combined focal length fdch of the optical element with respect to the d-line, and the pixel pitch P of the image display element satisfy an appropriate condition. |
| US08573784B2 |
Imaging apparatus having an optical sensor
A projection apparatus is provided. The projection apparatus includes a light-emitting unit array, an optical sensor, and a control unit. The light-emitting unit array is for emitting an image beam. The optical sensor is for detecting electromagnetic waves so as to generate a signal. The control unit is electrically coupled to the light-emitting unit array and the optical sensor for controlling emission of the light-emitting unit array according to the signal from the optical sensor. |
| US08573782B2 |
Discharge lamp drive device, discharge lamp drive method, light source device, and projector
A discharge lamp drive device for driving a discharge lamp including a first electrode and a second electrode, include: a power supply unit which supplies alternating power to the discharge lamp by inputting alternating current between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the power supply unit includes a power reduction control unit which reduces the alternating power from a first level to a second level lower than the first level, and a duty ratio control unit which steppedly varies duty ratio of the alternating current in a predetermined period at the time of reduction of the alternating power. |
| US08573779B2 |
Lighting device with plural light sources illuminating distinct regions of integrator
A lighting device is provided which efficiently achieves a high brightness and a high image quality by using a solid light source which has long service life and does not need mercury. The lighting device includes a first light source section, a second light source section, a second rod integrator for combining lights emitted from the first and second light source sections, and a first rod integrator for guiding the light from the first light source section, to the second rod integrator. On an incident surface of the second rod integrator, a first region on which the light emitted from the first light source section is incident and a second region on which the light emitted from the second light source section is incident do not overlap each other, and the surface area of the first region and the surface area of the second region are different from each other. |
| US08573778B2 |
Producing a customized spectacle lens in accordance with a blurred perception
A method for producing an ophthalmic spectacle lens makes it possible to fit out a wearer of lenses in a manner which is customized as a function of a perception of blur by said wearer. The lens is selected so that the wearer has the impression of having a field of sharp vision which has a reference width. This reference width is determined on the basis of a first lens which complies with the wearer's ophthalmic prescription and a reference threshold value of the blur. It is thereafter associated within the lens which is provided for the wearer with a threshold value of the blur which is perceived by this wearer. |
| US08573777B1 |
Examination stand with improved access for the wheelchair bound patient
A patient examination assembly comprises a rotatable stand adapted to mount a slit lamp microscope, and a phoropter attached to the stand by a telescoping arm assembly, comprising an arm and a connector, and the connector comprises a first link and a second link. The first link is telescopeable within the second link. |
| US08573764B2 |
Drying apparatus and printing apparatus
A drying apparatus includes: a rotatable belt which has an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface contacts a sheet; a blowing mechanism which blows hot air on the sheet at a side of the outer surface; and a heating unit which includes a heating element and a contact surface which is disposed in contact with the inner surface. A plurality of rollers are arranged in a direction in which the sheet travels. The rollers are pressed against the outer surface of the belt with the travelling sheet being held between the rollers and the outer surface of the belt. |
| US08573763B2 |
Multi level printing device and method
A method of printing an image onto a substrate in a plurality of passes is presented. The method comprises the steps of separating the image into image portions, and printing each image portion in at least two layers. At least one printing pass prints the different layers to different image portions. |
| US08573760B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
An outgoing path port and a returning path port of a circulation path are at a position that is lower than a printing head. The outgoing path port and a discharge port of a discharge path are at a position that is lower than the returning path port. When ink droplets are ejected from the printing head, ink is pumped from a main tank to a sub tank using a supply pump, and ink is pumped from the outgoing path port to the printing head using a circulation pump with an opening and closing valve open and an opening and closing valve closed. In a case where discharge of ink in the sub tank and a circulation path is instructed before replacing of an ink unit, ink is pumped from the outgoing path port to a junction side using the circulation pump with both of the valves open. |
| US08573758B2 |
Liquid jet recording head and liquid supply method
A liquid jet recording head includes liquid discharge ports, pressure chambers, and a substrate which has the discharge energy generating element, a liquid chamber for storing a liquid supplied to the pressure chamber, a pair of paths which are separated from the liquid chamber, and a liquid supply port communicating with the liquid chamber. A liquid inlet port communicating with one path of the pair of paths and a liquid outlet port communicating with the other path of the pair of paths are opened on one surface of the substrate. A liquid flow path for discharging the liquid from the liquid chamber to the pressure chamber via the liquid supply port, and a liquid flow path for circulating the liquid from the one path to each pressure chamber via the liquid inlet port, and further from each pressure chamber to the other path via the liquid outlet port are provided. |
| US08573750B2 |
Short circuit protection for inkjet printhead
Systems and apparatus for ejecting fluid. A fluid injection apparatus includes a fluid ejector unit for ejecting a droplet of fluid, an integrated circuit, and a conductive trace electrically coupling the fluid ejector unit and the integrated circuit. A portion of the conductive trace includes a fuse. |
| US08573749B2 |
Printhead for generating ink drops with reduced tails
A printhead (10) for use in an inkjet printing process includes a substrate (12) having at least one ink feed opening (14) defined therein, an ink chamber (16) in operative and fluid communication with the ink feed opening(s) (14), and a nozzle plate (18) disposed on a portion (P1) of the substrate (12). The nozzle plate (18) has a plurality of orifices (20) defined therein. The printhead (10) further includes a firing resistor (22) disposed on another portion (P2) of the substrate (12) and proximate to the ink feed opening(s) (14) and a barrier structure (24) disposed on the other portion (P2) of the substrate (12) and positioned adjacent to the firing resistor (22). |
| US08573747B2 |
Electrostatic liquid-ejection actuation mechanism
An electrostatic liquid-ejection actuation mechanism includes a membrane, a frame, and one or more deformable beams. The frame has two sides and a number of cross members that are non-parallel to the two sides. The two sides and the cross members define one or more areas individually corresponding to one or more liquid chambers. The deformable beams are disposed between the membrane and the frame. The deformable beams individually correspond to the liquid chambers, and define a number of slits. Each slit is adjacent to one of the two sides of the frame. The deformable beams have a width that is less than a width of the liquid chambers, due at least to the slits. |
| US08573745B2 |
Sealing member, liquid ejecting head, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A sealing member, disposed between a first member in which a first liquid flow channel is provided and a second member in which a second liquid flow channel that communicates with the first liquid flow channel is provided, includes: a plurality of communication openings; a reinforced portion in which the communication openings are provided; at least two first reference holes; a flexible portion, provided between the two first reference holes, that is weaker than the reinforced portion; and a second reference hole provided between the two first reference holes. |
| US08573744B2 |
Continuous type liquid ejection head and liquid ejection device
A continuous type liquid ejection head includes an ejection opening plate formed with ejection openings, from which a pressurized liquid is ejected, and a deforming unit. The ejection opening plate is made of an elastic plate containing a rubber material, at least at portions that are formed with the ejection openings. The deforming unit is arranged adjacent to the ejection opening plate and is configured to deform the elastic plate so that areas of the ejection openings are periodically changed. |
| US08573739B2 |
Wide-array inkjet printhead assembly
A wide-array inkjet printhead assembly with die carriers includes a backbone which delivers fluid through a manifold with a number of openings. The openings are spaced apart according to a opening pitch. A plurality of inkjet die includes trenches with a trench pitch which is smaller than the opening pitch. A plurality of die carriers include a plurality of oblique tapered channels, with one end of the oblique tapered channels having pitch matching the opening pitch and interfacing with the backbone and the opposite end of the oblique tapered channels having a pitch matching the trench pitch and interfacing with the inkjet die. A method for assembling a wide-array inkjet printhead assembly is also described. |
| US08573737B2 |
Reduction of misting in high speed offset printing
An ink or coating composition is rheologically tested at three or more temperatures which substantially cover the anticipated range of printing operation temperatures expected to be encountered during printing to determine the value of the rheological parameters viscous modulus, phase angle and phase-angle slope, and to identify values of these parameters encountered during printing around which the structural behavior of the ink or coating changes. An ink composition that has a phase angle of at least 55°, a viscous modulus of at least 150 Pa, and a phase-angle slope of at least −0.5°/° C. exhibits low misting when employed in high speed printing apparatus. |
| US08573732B2 |
Treatment liquid application device and image forming apparatus
A treatment-liquid application device includes a treatment-liquid container, a liquid supply unit, a liquid chamber unit, a treatment-liquid carrier, a transport unit, a treatment-liquid applicator, and a partition. The partition is disposed in an area of the chamber unit defined by an imaginary entry plane, an imaginary exit plane, a carrying surface of the carrier, and a bottom face of the chamber unit. The entry plane includes an entry line at which the carrying surface enters treatment liquid in the chamber unit, and vertically extends from the entry line. The exit plane includes an exit line at which the carrying surface exits from the liquid in the chamber unit, and vertically extends from the exit line. The partition extends in a longitudinal direction of the carrier and has an edge portion adjacent to the carrying surface. |
| US08573731B2 |
Density error correction
A method for density error correction is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes a) calculating an average density error for at least one row of an image considering density errors for printhead elements employed to print the at least one row, and a number of passes that the printhead elements will utilize to print the at least one row, b) calculating a density error correction value for the at least one row considering the average density error, and c) applying the density error correction value to adjust ink flow from the printhead elements while printing the at least one row. |
| US08573730B2 |
Transport device, recording apparatus, transport method
The transport control section performs, in a case where a first motor and a second motor are driven so as to transport a long sheet to the downstream side in a transport direction, prescribed processing that is different from the processing in a case where the deflection amount of the sheet becomes equal to or greater than a reference amount, in a case where the deflection amount of the sheet between a shaft member and a sending roller in the transport direction does not become equal to or greater than the reference amount. |
| US08573729B2 |
Liquid ejection device
The liquid ejection device includes: a platen configured to hold a recording medium by suction through the use of a plurality of suction holes; a suction unit configured to generate a negative pressure for holding the recording medium to the platen by suction; a suction flow passage configured to transmit the negative pressure generated by the suction unit to the platen, the suction flow passage being disposed between the suction unit and the platen; and a communication control unit configured to control communication between the suction unit and the suction holes not blocked by the recording medium, through the use of a flow of air suctioned from the suction holes not blocked by the recording medium. |
| US08573728B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus and method for controlling liquid ejecting head
One of the two flow passages branches from one of two ink cartridges to one of the two discharging portions and one of the two individual discharging portions. The other flow passage branches from the other ink cartridge to the other discharging portion and the other individual discharging portion. A ratio of frequency of use of each of the discharging portions, Ra, and frequency of use of each of the individual discharging portions, Rb, satisfies Ra:Rb=1:½. |
| US08573727B2 |
Inkjet printing apparatus and carriage control method for controlling carriage speed
A carriage is precisely controlled in short-distance movement. The carriage is controlled upon printing by an inkjet printhead by reciprocally moving the carriage to which the printhead is mounted along a guide rail by a driving force supplied from a carriage motor. More specifically, a carriage position in the reciprocal direction is detected, and a carriage speed is calculated based on the detected positions. Then, the positions and carriage speed are fed back to control drive of the carriage motor. In the feedback-control, a loss due to friction generated between the carriage and the guide rail is compensated for with respect to a motor instruction value used to control drive of the carriage motor. The compensation is performed by identifying, based on the carriage speed, whether the friction is static or kinetic, and determining a compensation value in accordance with the identification. |
| US08573725B2 |
System and method for correcting stitch error in a staggered printhead assembly
An improved method of measuring relative positions of adjacent printheads in a printhead array has been developed. A pair of ink dashes is made with different colors of ink from adjacent printheads and an offset distance between the dashes is determined from color density measurements of the two dashes. The offset distance may then be used to adjust the stitch alignment of the two printheads. |
| US08573724B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes: a recording head that performs recording on a recording target medium; a driving mechanism that is capable of causing the recording head to move closer to the recording target medium or move away from the recording target medium; and a controlling section that determines driving amount for one driving operation that is performed by the driving mechanism on the basis of results of a comparison made between a first recording head movement direction that is taken or to be taken in the one driving operation and a second recording head movement direction that was taken in another driving operation that is immediately before the one driving operation and thus precedes the one driving operation. |
| US08573720B2 |
Guide rail comprising a rapid fixing device
The invention relates to a guide rail, which can be fixed to horizontal bars including angled end regions on a grid-type side part of an oven, a dishwasher or similar appliances and which has a rapid fixing device, including two retaining elements that are fixed in the end region of the guide rail and that can be detachably fixed to a bar on the grid-type side part. According to the invention, both the front and the rear retaining element have respective first and second clip-type retaining sections, the first partially encompassing the longitudinal extension of a bar and the second partially encompassing the angled end regions of said bar. The retaining section of the rear retaining element is open towards the rear of the guide rail, allowing the rail with its rapid fixing device to be pushed and fixed onto one of the bars from the front of the grid-type side part. |
| US08573714B2 |
Brake device
To make a brake device generate a required braking force, a hydraulic control section switches, according to the relative magnitude between the required braking force and a braking force exerted by braking operation, between drive of a pump motor and non-drive of the pump motor and a master cut valve reduces the flow of brake fluid in the direction to a master cylinder. By this, a wheel cylinder maintains hydraulic pressure capable of generating the required braking force. As a result, the pump motor is not necessarily always driven when the required braking force is generated, and the operating time period of the pump motor is reduced. As a result, a load on the pump motor is reduced to enhance durability of the pump motor. |
| US08573711B2 |
Vehicle braking apparatus suppressing excessive slip of wheel during braking
A vehicle braking apparatus that can exert high braking performance during vehicle braking is implemented by a control mode that can be realized in a braking apparatus (10) of usual hardware. In controlling the braking apparatus (10) of a vehicle, a climb rate of a wheel cylinder braking oil pressure (Pw) is decreased smaller than a climb rate corresponding to a climb rate of a master cylinder oil pressure (Pm) from a time point at which the wheel cylinder braking oil pressure (Pw) reaches a predetermined threshold value. The time point at which the wheel cylinder braking oil pressure (Pw) reaches the predetermined threshold value (P3) is estimated based on the climb process of the master cylinder oil pressure (Pm) or directly detected. |
| US08573710B2 |
Brake control system
In a brake control system (10), a reservoir switch (60) detects a decrease in the amount of hydraulic fluid in a reservoir tank (26). An ECU (100) switches a master cutoff valve (22), a pressure increase valve (40), and a pressure decrease valve (42) and the like between open and closed. When a decrease in the amount of hydraulic fluid in the reservoir tank (26) is detected, the ECU (100) opens the master cutoff valve (22) to supply hydraulic fluid from a right front-wheel wheel cylinder (20FR) and a left front-wheel wheel cylinder (20FL) to a master cylinder (14), when release of a brake pedal (12) is detected. |
| US08573708B1 |
Hydraulic brake booster with variable control valve for regenerative braking
A hydraulic braking system for use in a vehicle employing both hydraulic and regenerative braking including a master cylinder with a reservoir inlet port and an outlet port. The outlet port is responsive to vehicle operator applied brake pedal pressure to close the inlet port and provide pilot pressure at the outlet port which is selectively coupled by a valve (57) to a hydraulic pedal simulator and to a control valve. The control valve provides boost hydraulic pressure from a pressure source to a vehicle wheel brake actuator in proportion to the pressure differential between the pilot pressure and a hydraulic pressure which is proportional to regenerative braking torque. This allows the power train controller to independently request different levels of regeneration on the two axles. |
| US08573706B2 |
Cutting tool with nozzle for spraying water on a cutter bit
A cutting tool has a holder block and a sleeve. The sleeve includes a shank and an enlarged flange at an end of the shank. The sleeve shank is received in a hole in the holder block, with the flange against a surface of the holder block and the sleeve shank facing the holder hole wall. A first fillet extending between the holder bore wall and a second fillet extending between the sleeve shank and sleeve flange cooperatively form an annular flow passage for flow of water from the holder into the sleeve. |
| US08573704B2 |
Anti-ballistic chairs
The present invention is directed to Anti-ballistic Chairs with the preferred embodiment consisting of a conventionally appearing stacking chair with padded seat cushion and back rest, having a tubular framework with arm rests, having the addition of a skirt section below the seat extending to the floor level. The core of the chair will consist of layers of flexible anti-ballistic fabric, also known as soft armor, wrapped in two directions around the tubular members of the back rest, seat and skirt section. Alternatively, the stacking chair will be constructed of pre-manufactured hard anti-ballistic armor components, also known as hard armor. Two additional embodiments will be folding chairs with tubular frameworks, the first having hard armor anti-ballistic surfaces and the second being able to have hard armor or soft armor anti-ballistic surfaces. |
| US08573703B2 |
Headrest for motor-vehicle seat
A headrest has a generally vertical rod mountable in a motor-vehicle seat and formed with a plurality of vertically spaced and horizontally open notches, a support vertically movable along the rod and adapted to carry a head cushion, and a latch element vertically fixed on the support and shiftable on the support between a latched position engaged in one of the notches and locking the support on the rod against downward movement and an unlatched position disengaged from the rod and permitting free vertical movement of the support on the rod. An actuating element is pivotal about an axis on the support between an actuated position holding the latch element in the disengaged position and a rest position with the latch element in the engaged position. |
| US08573699B2 |
Vehicle seat
A rear seat of a vehicle which allows controlled reclining of the seat as well as folding the seatback to a stowed position. |
| US08573697B1 |
Combination of a waistrest and a backrest
A combination includes front and rear frames each having a central hollow portion. The central hollow portion of the front frame includes two lateral sides each having a flexible plate with a plurality of vertically spaced positioning grooves. A guiding groove is defined in each of two lateral sides of the central hollow portion of the rear frame. A waistrest includes a support portion. A lug is formed on each of two sides of the support portion. A protrusion is formed on a rear face of each lug and is received in one of the guiding grooves of the rear frame. A positioning member is formed on the front face of each lug. Each flexible plate abuts the front face of one of the lugs. The positioning member of each lug of the waistrest is engaged in one of the positioning grooves of one of the flexible plates. |
| US08573695B2 |
Infant vehicle seat and frame suitable for use with such an infant vehicle seat
The invention relates to an infant vehicle seat that is suitable for being mounted in a vehicle with a safety belt system that is present in the vehicle, which infant vehicle seat comprises a frame, a seat bucket connected to the frame as well as at least one belt tensioning device for tensioning at least one belt of said safety belt system. The tensioning device is movable from a first position located near a rear side of the frame to a second position spaced from the rear side, in which position the belt is tensioned by means of the belt tensioning device in use. |
| US08573693B2 |
Adjustable headrest for juvenile vehicle
A child restraint includes a juvenile seat and a child-restraint harness coupled to the juvenile seat. The child restraint also includes a headrest mounted for up-and-down movement relative to a seat back included in the juvenile seat. |
| US08573689B2 |
Retractable vehicle seat clothes hanging bar
Disclosed is a support mechanism for at least one garment or garment hanger and for integration into a top surface of a vehicle seat. A substantially horizontal and rigid support bar is adapted for providing greater area of support than a traditional vehicle ceiling hook. At least one substantially vertical support post is fixed with the support bar. An enclosure well is adapted to receive all but a top surface of the support bar therein. An open side of the enclosure well is adapted for mounting flush with the top surface of the vehicle seat. At least one post receiver is fixed to a bottom portion of the enclosure well and is adapted to receive the at least one support post therein. Each post receiver preferably contacts the support post with a friction fit such that the support bar and the support post are selectively vertically positionable. |
| US08573687B2 |
Zero-wall clearance linkage mechanism for providing additional layout
A seating unit that includes a linkage mechanism adapted to adjust between closed, extended, and reclined positions is provided. The linkage mechanism includes a seat-mounting plate mounted to a footrest assembly, a back-mounting link and a rear bellcrank both rotatably coupled to the seat-mounting plate, an activator bar that controls a footrest drive link, and a linear actuator for carrying out automated adjustment of the linkage assembly. In operation, a stroke in a first phase of the linear actuator generates a torque on the activator bar. The footrest drive link converts the torque into a laterally-directed force that pushes the footrest assembly into the extended position. A stroke in the second phase acts to push the activator bar forward and translate the seat-mounting plate forward at a consistent inclination angle. The forward translation causes the rear bellcrank to rotate, thereby biasing the back-mounting link rearward into the reclined position. |
| US08573685B2 |
Sliding roof system
A sliding roof system is described including a guide rail, an adjustable cover, a bearing block mounted to the guide rail, a side panel one end of which is mounted to the bearing block by means of a slotted guide, and a spring which urges the end of the side panel facing away from the bearing block against the cover. Further described is a method of controlling the lifting movement of a side panel of a sliding roof system, in which when the cover of the sliding roof system is adjusted to a ventilating position, the rear end of the side panel follows the opening movement of the cover while the front end performs a lift that is smaller than the lift of the cover, the side panel being shifted forward relative to the cover at the same time. |
| US08573683B2 |
Front rail reinforcement system
A front structure for a vehicle is provided, the structure including (i) a pair of front rails (i.e., front left hand rail and front right hand rail) spaced apart in a widthwise direction with each rail extending lengthwise, where one end portion of each rail is mechanically coupled to the vehicle's bumper and the other end portion of each rail is mechanically coupled to a torque box, and where each rail is comprised of a polygonal-shaped upper hollow channel and a polygonal-shaped lower hollow channel, and where the upper and lower channels share a common wall; and (ii) a pair of rail reinforcement members, where one rail reinforcement member is mechanically mounted within each front rail, and where a plurality of features corresponding to each reinforcement member determines how the rails react to front impact loads. |
| US08573682B2 |
Vehicle cowl components adapted for hood/fender sealing
A vehicle cowl component configured to extend between a hood's rear edge and a vehicle front windshield comprises a cowl and a seal, the seal including a U-shaped cross section attached to the under-hood edge and having upwardly extending front and rear curved walls, each of the curved walls having an unconnected free end. In one embodiment, the seal is two-shot molded onto the cowl, which eliminates secondary attachment operations. A method includes steps of first-shot molding a cowl, and then second-shot molding a U-shaped seal onto the cowl along an under-hood front edge. A modified cowl includes a seal with a downwardly extending wiper for sealing engagement with a body support structure under the cowl and seal. |
| US08573680B2 |
Vehicle trailer with improved aerodynamics
Trailers, such as semi-trailers, having configurations that improve the aerodynamic efficiency thereof are provided. In some examples, aerodynamically configured trailers are provided that maintain standard cargo capacity. To improve the aerodynamic efficiency, the rearward end of the trailer in some embodiments include a downward cant or slope. In use, the rearward cant or slope reduces the low-pressure region that trails the end of the trailer, thereby reducing pressure drag. In accordance with another aspect, to accommodate loading and unloading of the downwardly canting or sloping trailer, examples of the trailers may also be equipped with “sliding trailer axle” and/or extended travel landing gear so as to allow the trailer to interface with standard loading dock heights as well as rampless ground loading/unloading. |
| US08573674B2 |
Vehicle seat
A switching mechanism that switches a locking device of a slider device between a locked state and an unlocked state includes a sliding member that slides along a wall surface of a fixed rail, a step portion that is formed on the wall surface of the fixed rail and onto which the sliding member rides when a seat main body enters an unusable range, an unlocking mechanism that is provided on the seat main body and that unlocks the locking device and keeps the locking device unlocked in response to movement of the sliding member as the sliding member rides onto the step portion, and an unlocking operation canceling mechanism that is provided on the seat main body and that cancels an operation by the unlocking mechanism to unlock the locking device when the seat cushion is flipped up into a tipped up position. |
| US08573672B2 |
End wall arrangement for an engine compartment of a motor vehicle
An end wall arrangement for an engine compartment of a motor vehicle is provided that includes an end wall, at least one component mounted on the end wall, and a planar covering element having sound-absorbing properties. The covering element is provided with at least one flap having heat-insulating properties and being configured optionally to cover the at least one component or to render the component accessible. |
| US08573668B2 |
Retracting storage tray system with locking trunnion
A tray system has a trunnion carriage mounted to a recess in a housing. A trunnion body is rotatably mounted to the carriage. A push member is slidable within the carriage. Moving the push member from a first end of travel to a second end of travel transfers a force against the trunnion body to move it to a deployed position. When the push member is at the second end then it locks the trunnion body against movement out from the deployed position. Moving the push member back to the first end transfers a force against the trunnion body to move it to the retracted position. A tray coupled to and movable with the trunnion body retracts vertically in the recess when the trunnion body is in the retracted position and deploys horizontally outward from the recess when the trunnion body is in the deployed position. |
| US08573666B2 |
Retractable room actuation assembly for recreational vehicle
A slide-out or retractable room for a mobile living quarters, such as a recreational vehicle, is provided with actuating assemblies mounted on opposite side walls of the slide-out room and the adjacent wall of the main living area. The actuating assemblies include a pair of parallel gear racks mounted on the side wall, which are engaged by pinions rotated by torque shafts mounted on the main living quarters. Each torque shaft is rotated by a separate motor. A roller engages a bearing surface on the lower portion of the gear racks. Accordingly, the slide-out room is extended and retracted by rotating the torque shafts to cause the gear racks and the attached slide-out room to extend and retract. The weight of the slide-out room is supported by the rollers, thereby supporting the slide-out room off of the floor of the main living quarters as it extends and retracts. A synchronizing control operates the motors. |
| US08573665B2 |
Transparent/translucent flexible component for a vehicle interior
A storage component 20 for a vehicle includes a flexible component 22, such as a tambour door, formed of a plurality of slats 26 supported by and chemically bonded to a substrate 24. The flexible component 22 is translucent or transparent, allowing light to pass therethrough. The slats 26 are formed of a slat polymer, such as polypropylene (PP), and the substrate 24 is formed of a substrate polymer, such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The slats 26 also have a tensile strength of at least 5 MPa so that the flexible component 22 can support objects disposed on the flexible component 22, such as an arm of a passenger or a purse. |
| US08573660B2 |
Safety apparatus of rear bumper storage box for vehicle
A safety apparatus of a rear bumper storage box for a vehicle includes a storage box that does not rotate upward but rotates downward toward a ground surface when a rear low-speed collision accident occurs. |
| US08573654B2 |
Pipe joint
An annular sealing material seals a pipe joint between a socket and a spigot. The sealing material includes a bulb part which is composed of a first bulb, a second bulb located closer to the inner side of the socket than the first bulb, and a narrow part present between the first and second bulbs. The first bulb is pressed against the inner circumferential surface of the socket. The second bulb is pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the spigot. The second bulb is inclined towards the pipe center from the first bulb in a natural state before it is provided between the socket and the spigot. The inner diameter of the second bulb is smaller than the outer diameter of the spigot in the natural state. The second bulb is extensible in the pipe diameter direction due to elastic deformation of the narrow part. |
| US08573653B2 |
Fitting component, ferrule and nut
A fitting component for receiving a tube is provided. The tube has a tube end inserted through a ferrule, the portion of the tube end extending beyond the ferrule being called a pilot. The fitting component comprises a body including a cavity for receiving the tube end and the ferrule. The cavity is defined by an inner lateral wall and opens on an extremity of the body. The cavity includes a pilot receiving section and a channel connecting the cavity to another portion of the body. A radial annular flange is located at the interface of the pilot receiving section with the channel. The flange has an annular sealing lip protruding towards the cavity. The sealing lip is for forming a seal with a radial surface of the pilot, advantageously reducing dead volumes within the fitting component when in use. |
| US08573652B2 |
Pipe joints
An inlet hole capable of inserting a pipe thereinto is formed in a pipe joint body along an axis. Retainer attaching holes for attaching with a retainer that prevents detachment of the pipe are formed in a side surface of the pipe joint body to extend therethrough. These retainer attaching holes are configured symmetrically with respect to an X axis passing through a center of the inlet hole as a symmetrical axis. Thus, a circumference of the inlet hole opens symmetrically, so that the heat shrinkage condition after molding is equalized in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, it is not necessary to process a molding pin for the inlet hole with imbalance of heat shrinkage amount in mind, so that the molding pin becomes easy to process. In addition, the retainer can selectively utilize the retainer attaching holes at two positions, so that selective use depending on installation environment can be achieved. |
| US08573650B2 |
Security feature and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing a security feature for a security element, a security paper or a data carrier that exhibits a substrate into which at least one through opening and at least one marking in registration with the through opening are to be introduced. The method includes the steps of providing a substrate with a laser-modifiable marking substance at least in the region of the marking to be produced and, in the same operation, introducing at least one through opening into the substrate by the action of laser radiation at higher laser power and modifying the laser-modifiable marking substance in the marking region by the action of laser radiation at a lower laser power to produce at least one marking in registration with the through opening. |
| US08573649B2 |
Passenger automobile without B-column
A passenger automobile without B-column is provided that has front side doors and rear side doors. Two front individual seats are arranged in the area of the front side doors and a rear seat arrangement is arranged in the area of the rear side doors. A column for accommodating three-point safety belts for the individual seats is mounted between the individual seats in the area of backrests of the individual seats. This column is mounted in the floor of the vehicle. The shoulder belt of the respective safety belt is mounted in the area of the upper end of the column and the lap belt of the respective safety belt is mounted in the area of the lower end of the column. In a passenger automobile without B-column, a structurally simple safety belt arrangement is provided that has a favorable design for the front individual seats. |
| US08573648B2 |
Apparatus and control method for rotating webbing guide of seat belt for vehicle
An apparatus for rotating a webbing guide of a seat belt for a vehicle may include a drive unit for moving a cable connected at one end thereof by controlling driving of a motor in response to an actuating signal or a stop signal, the webbing guide connected to the other end of the cable, and hingedly rotated to a first direction of a vehicular body as the cable moves in a second direction, and a return unit provided on the webbing guide, and providing an elastic force to the webbing guide so that the webbing guide hingedly rotated to the first direction of the vehicular body returns to the second direction of the vehicular body when the motor stops driving. |
| US08573647B2 |
Vehicle with traction battery capable of absorbing crash energy
The invention relates to a vehicle having, at least in part, an electric drive which includes a traction battery (1), which vehicle has at least one predefined deformation zone (I, II) which in the event of a crash (A, B) acts to absorb energy, and at least one predefined zone (III), which has a substantial structural rigidity and which in the event of a crash (A, B) remains substantially without deformation. According to the invention, the traction battery (1) has a deformation region (18) which in the event of a crash can be deformed via a deformation path (a) and which is arranged in the deformation zone (I, II) of the vehicle. |
| US08573645B2 |
Gas generator and manufacturing process thereof
A gas generator includes an initiator having a case, two electrodes and a cap having a wall delimiting an aperture for insertion of the case, a part delimiting an aperture for access to the electrodes and a retaining part made of plastic material overmolded into the aperture between the initiator, the cap and the part. The wall includes, near the aperture and the protrusion retaining the cap, a second protrusion for supporting the mold in a support direction having a component extending from the bottom toward the aperture, the second protrusion having an outer edge at least partially not covered by the part for use as a support surface in said support direction for a mold to be used for overmolding. |
| US08573643B1 |
Active bolster with gas directing channels
An active bolster has an expandable inner wall including a bay having first and second opposing ends and a central bowl. An expandable outer wall overlies the inner wall to provide a main cavity therebetween. An inflator is mounted within the bay having an outlet nozzle with a plurality of outlet passages for radially discharging an inflation gas against the bay and the outer wall in response to inflate the main cavity during a crash. The inner wall of the central bowl includes a plurality of first dispersion ribs substantially parallel with one another and following arcuate paths to provide at least one gas channel with opposite ends emptying from the central bowl into the main cavity. The outer wall includes a plurality of second dispersion ribs oriented to channel inflation gas from the central bowl toward the outer peripheral edges. |
| US08573636B2 |
Side airbag unit
A side airbag unit for mounting on or in the backrest of a vehicle seat includes an airbag skin enclosing a gas chamber, and an inflator for filling of said gas chamber. The airbag skin exhibits a main section which serves for protection of the vehicle occupant when the side airbag is expanded and which in the resting state of the side airbag is present as a package, wherein the package is at least partly rolled. In order to provide a side airbag unit of low weight with its airbag skin nevertheless showing a controlled and reproducible expansion behavior, the airbag skin further comprises at least one auxiliary section which in the resting state encompasses the main section in two layers at least in sections, wherein an additional area of the gas chamber is present between the two layers of the auxiliary section at least in the resting state. |
| US08573635B2 |
Vehicle seat assembly with air bag protection member
A vehicle seat assembly according to the present disclosure includes an air bag module having a front and a side, and the air bag module includes an inflatable air bag and a flexible cover at least partially covering the air bag. The flexible cover may include a protection portion that extends at least partially along the side of the air bag module. The protection portion has an end spaced away from the front of the air bag module, and the end is releasably connected to another portion of the air bag module. The seat assembly further includes a seat pad disposed outside of the air bag module, and a trim cover positioned over the seat pad. Upon inflation of the air bag, the end of the protection portion is configured to disconnect from the another portion of the air bag module and extend forwardly such that the protection portion extends between the seat pad and the air bag, or between the trim cover and the air bag. |
| US08573631B2 |
Device for receiving a foot or a boot on a gliding apparatus
A device for receiving a foot or a boot on a gliding apparatus, the receiving device including a base plate that extends along a longitudinal direction, from a rear end to a front end, as well as a rear support element, the rear support element being articulated with respect to the base plate, in the area of the rear end, in order to be capable of being folded, selectively, towards the base plate or deployed rearwardly. The receiving device includes an abutment that limits the deployment of the rear support element with respect to the base plate. The abutment is fixed to the base plate, the abutment has a self-supporting structure, and the abutment limits the deployment of the rear support element by acting along the longitudinal direction (L). The abutment is transversely flexible in order to assume the shape of the rear support element when the latter is deployed rearward. |
| US08573629B1 |
Tow bar and latch assembly
A tow bar has first and second bar elements telescopically engaged to slide between an extended configuration and a collapsed configuration. A latch housing mounted on the second bar element pivotally mounts a latch element. A locking sear having a sear locking surface and a sear back surface is pivotally mounted to move between a locking position and an unlocking position. In the locking position, a sear locking surface abuts a latch stop of the first bar element to lock the first and second bar elements in the extended configuration. In the unlocking position, the sear locking surface disengages the latch stop, allowing the first and second bar elements to move to the collapsed configuration. |
| US08573628B2 |
Hitch receiver apparatuses and methods for securing hitch receivers to frame members
The present invention is a configurable trailer hitch that provides an extended towing position for transferring a tractor force to a load, and a retracted storage position for safely stowing the hitch under a towing vehicle. The trailer hitch has a spring loaded retaining pin which engages a hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the towing position, and a storage latch adapted to hold the hitch receiver when the trailer hitch is placed in the storage position. |
| US08573627B2 |
Fifth wheel support assembly
A fifth wheel hitch support assembly includes a support bracket adapted to pivotally support a fifth wheel hitch plate, a mounting member adapted to be coupled to a vehicle frame rail to create a gap therebetween and above the frame rail, wherein the gap extends longitudinally along the mounting member, and wherein the mounting member includes a plurality of irregularities spaced longitudinally along the length thereof, and an engagement assembly operably coupled to the support bracket wherein the engagement assembly is operable between an engaged position locking the support bracket with respect to the mounting member at a select position along the length of the mounting member, and a disengaged position wherein the engagement assembly does not engage the plurality of irregularities, thereby allowing the support bracket to be slidably repositioned with respect to the support bracket. |
| US08573624B2 |
Bicycle saddle or handlebar height adjustment device
A bicycle saddle and handlebar height adjustment device including a tubular element provided with elements for its connection to the saddle, and presenting a portion cooperating with a support element for the tubular element. The support element is associated with a ring nut rotating thereon and presenting a first thread cooperating with a corresponding first counter-thread provided on the tubular element. An alignment element is present to maintain the angular position between the tubular element and the support element. The ring nut is associated with the support element by way of a second thread cooperating with a corresponding second counter-thread provided on the support element. The first and second threads are counter-rotating. |
| US08573622B2 |
Wheelchair
A wheelchair comprises a frame and first and second rear wheels that are each independently mounted to the frame via a respective mounting hub. Each rear wheel is detachably mounted to its respective mounting hub at two or more distinct hub mounting points. Either or both of the hub mounting points can be movable with respect to a remainder of the hub, for example via a pivoting arrangement. A disk can be positioned at the rear wheel and a stop element located at the mounting hub can be selectively operated to interfere with the disk to prevent rotation of that rear wheel. The frame can comprise first and second spaced apart and unitary tubes which each extending in an unbroken manner from a wheelchair seat to a wheelchair forward region. |
| US08573621B1 |
Integrated composite torsion cartridge
An integrated composite torsion cartridge is molded to size and configuration. The integrated composite torsion cartridge includes a torquearm, bearing surface, shoulder, torsion bar cluster, and mating axle tube countertorque hub in a homogeneous subassembly. A spindle being steel for example, can be secured to torquearm with a typical fastening technique. An extruded length bearing block can be cut to a finished size and mounting holes installed. Using a pair of bearing blocks, one above and one below, the bearing blocks intimately fit about an integrated torsion subassembly bearing area and both bearing block mating edges engaged to maintain location. If desired, the mating bearing block edges can be bonded together for greater retention. |
| US08573619B2 |
Suspension assembling structure, spring seat, and suspension assembling method
In a suspension assembling structure, a suspension link has an engagement hole formed in a mounting face for a spring seat. The spring seat has a protrusion formed on the lower face of a seat body and configured to be brought into engagement with the suspension link by insertion into the engagement hole. Also, the spring seat has a flange formed on the outer peripheral surface of a cylindrical portion in a manner so as to radially protrude through a clearance space defined between adjacent wires of a coil spring, and configured to hold the wire of a first turn at the lower end of the coil spring, while being kept in abutted-engagement with the upper face of the first turn. |
| US08573618B2 |
Wheel suspension of a motor vehicle
A wheel suspension of a motor vehicle. The wheel suspension includes a suspension arm supported on a linkage point on a car body of the motor vehicle. A transverse leaf spring is arranged along a transverse axis of the motor vehicle and coupled at an end of the transverse leaf spring with the wheel suspension. The transverse leaf spring is supported via a bearing on the car body. An end of the transverse leaf spring is coupled in an articulated manner with the suspension arm and spaced apart from a wheel-side end of the suspension arm. |
| US08573617B2 |
Wheel suspension for motor vehicles
A wheel suspension for motor vehicles includes at least one upper control arm, in particular an upper transverse control arm, and at least one lower control arm, in particular a lower transverse control arm, which are hinged on the body of the motor vehicle suspension on the one hand, and on the other hand are connected to a wheel carrier, thus forming a preferred, substantially vertical steering axle. At least one suspension spring and at least one shock absorber are provided. The at least one suspension spring and/or the at least one shock absorber are designed to be rotatable. |
| US08573614B2 |
Single foot skate
A skate including a main body, a plurality of wheels, a primary foot support, a sidewall, and a foot rest. The plurality of wheels are rotatably coupled to the main body. The primary foot support is configured to support a skater's first foot. The sidewall projects above the primary foot support. The foot rest extends from the sidewall to support a skater's second foot. The foot rest includes a first portion extending rearward relative to the primary foot support, and a second portion extending laterally relative to the primary foot support. The skater's second foot can be positioned upon and simultaneously supported by both the first portion and the second portion of the foot rest. |
| US08573607B2 |
Railcar maintenance creeper
A creeper is provided wherein the creeper has a main frame comprising a front and a rear; wheels attached to the main frame; a handle attached to the mainframe rearward of said wheels; a platform slidably attached to the main frame and rail engagement brackets attached to the mainframe forward of the wheels. Pressure is applied to the handle thereby lifting the front of the main frame thereby supporting the creeper on the wheels. The creeper is moved to a position under the railcar. Pressure is removed from the handle thereby allowing the front of the creeper to lower wherein the rail engagement brackets engage with rails of a track. The personnel lays on the platform and slides the platform under the railcar. |
| US08573606B1 |
Shock absorber for vehicle
A shock absorber apparatus for a vehicle may include a piston installed within a cylinder to be moved along a lengthwise direction of the cylinder and separating the cylinder into an upper chamber and a lower chamber, a piston rod installed to pass through the cylinder and connected to the piston, wherein the piston rod has an oil flow space therein, and a valve mechanism installed on the piston rod and operated to be opened and closed to selectively connect the upper chamber of the cylinder and the oil flow space of the piston rod. |
| US08573600B2 |
High-vacuum seal
The invention relates to an improved O-ring seal for use as a high vacuum seal. A limitation of standard O-ring seals is the permeation of water through the O-ring. Especially for instruments in which parts are kept at a cryogenic temperature, such as a cryogenic electron microscope, the presence of water in the vacuum is a problem, as this results in ice growth on the cryogenic parts. As a solution often a double O-ring seal is used, or a metal seal. Both of these solutions have severe draw-backs.The invention proposes to place the O-ring in a channel in which dry gas, such as dry nitrogen, is blown. In this way no water can permeate through the O-ring, resulting in a reduced base pressure and highly reduced ice growth. |
| US08573599B2 |
Unitary high pressure slip seal cartridge
A unitary cartridge seal assembly for a high pressure liquid sealing connection between two relatively rotatable liquid passage members of a rotary nozzle or a swivel and a tool having such an assembly. The assembly comprises a thimble shaped or cylindrical housing having a flanged retainer fitting within an axial orifice to hold the components together while allowing sufficient axial movement to insure complete sealing of the respective elements. The assembly provides “drop-in” replacement of wearable parts of the rotary face seal of a high pressure water jet blasting tool. |
| US08573597B1 |
Baccarat improvements
A method of playing Baccarat and Baccarat derivative games such as mini-Baccarat and midi-Baccarat which incorporates an optional side bet, without affecting the normal play. The bettors may wager on this side bet, which has a payout based on an occurrence of a natural (two-card) 8-count or 9-count and loses if either no natural occurs, or bettors chose a side that did not have a natural. The Natural side bet may be wagered on either Player side being a natural or the Banker side being a natural. Bettors may win a larger amount on the Natural side bet if specific conditions arise when both the Player and Banker has a natural. In preferred embodiments, the side bets are made electronically via touch screens, and the cards are scanned electronically in a manually dealt shoe or with an electronic shoe simulating physical cards using a computer. |
| US08573595B2 |
Variable point generation craps game
A variable point generation craps game includes a random indicator generator providing only members of a predetermined set of indicators, at least two point value selectors and a bet. Each of the indicators designates a point value selector, each of which has an initial state providing all possible point values obtainable, and with the same probability, from a single roll of a standard pair of dice. The point value selectors yield at least one point for the craps game upon designation by the random indicator generator. The bet depends upon at least one point value selected by at least one of the point value selectors. In a variation, a single point value selector is used and the random indicator generator designates an integer that determines a predetermined operation to be performed upon the point value selector to yield at least one point for the craps game. |
| US08573594B2 |
Game machine
A game machine includes a game board provided with a playfield on which a playing ball cascades downward, a ball receiving hole detection part configured to detect whether or not the playing ball enters a ball receiving hole provided in the playfield, a win determination part configured to determine, when the ball receiving hole detection part detects the playing ball, whether or not a special win is acquired, a game value to be provided for the special win not being determined at a time of provision of the game value, a decision part configured to decide, when the win determination part determines that the special win is acquired, a predetermined game value provided by the special win, and a game value providing part configured to provide the predetermined game value decided by the decision part. |
| US08573590B2 |
Sheet finisher and image forming system provided therewith
In a sheet finisher which receives a sheet from an image forming apparatus, conducts a sheet finishing onto the sheet and feeds out the sheet, the sheet finisher includes: a stacking section which stores temporarily one or more sheets; and a sheet finishing section which conducts the sheet finishing onto the sheet stored in the stacking section. The stacking section having a first guide member which forms a stacking surface to guide the sheet, and a second guide member which faces the first guide member and is spaced apart from the first guide member by a predetermined distance, and is provided obliquely from a horizontal direction, and the stacking surface formed by at least a part of the first guide member, is formed to be curved in a direction perpendicular to a sheet conveyance direction. |
| US08573576B2 |
Clamp for single-handed operation
A clamp has an open state for inserting an object from a front end and a closed state for holding the inserted object relative to a back end. The clamp includes a frame as well as a first arm and a second arm that is positioned within the frame. At least one of the first or second arms is pivotable relative to the other along a range of motion that traverses an open position corresponding to the open state of the clamp and a closed position corresponding to the closed state of the clamp. In one embodiment, at least one of the first and second arms are shaped to position the object between a front end and a back end when the clamp is in the closed state such that a pressure exerted by insertion of the object to the backend causes the front end to move along the range of motion to the closed position. A locking mechanism locks the clamp to the closed state when the front end reaches the closed position and unlocks the clamp to the open state by allowing the front end to move along the range of motion to reach the open position. |
| US08573575B2 |
Reference tool for assembly jig for aircraft structures
A reference tool for assembly jigs for aircraft structures includes a constraint pin (1), for being inserted into holes purposely provided on the assembly jig for aircraft structures and a reference support (2), associated with the pin, for generating a gap between the parts of the aircraft structure, during assemblage, of a known and standardized amount. |
| US08573574B1 |
Automatic truss jig setting system
A automatic truss jig setting system is disclosed that includes a table including a plurality of segments with a side edge of adjacent segments defining a slot. At least one pin assembly, and optionally a pair of pin assemblies, is movable independently of each other along the slot. Movement apparatus is provided for independently moving the pin assemblies along the slot. Each of the side edges of the segments associated with the slot defines a substantially vertical plane with a zone being defined between the substantially vertical planes of the side edges, and the movement apparatus is located substantially outside of the zone of the slot. The invention may optionally include a system for handling the obstruction of pin assembly movement, and a system for keeping track of the position of the pin assembly when the pin assembly has encountered an obstruction. |
| US08573572B2 |
User-selectable force conversion apparatus and method
A user-selectable force conversion apparatus includes a first and a second connecting member that are pivotally connected to each other between a sliding member and a fixed member. The apparatus also includes a leaf spring holder for removably retaining one or more leaf springs and loading the second connecting member with a substantially linear force response of the leaf springs. A user may change the combination of leaf springs and/or vary a length ratio for the first and second connecting members and thereby change the force response of the apparatus. Movement of the sliding member by the mechanical input may convert the substantially linear force response of the leaf springs to a user-selected force response for the mechanical input. A corresponding method is also disclosed. |
| US08573569B2 |
Active vibration damper and method of manufacturing active vibration damper
An active vibration damper including: an inner shaft member provided to a movable member; an outer tube member provided to a stator; a pair of leaf springs elastically connecting axially both sides of the inner shaft member and the outer tube member so as to make a linear actuator operatable by itself; an elastic connecting rubber connecting the inner shaft member and the outer tube member; a mass body holding portion provided to the inner shaft member for holding an additional mass body that is disposed further outwardly than the elastic connecting rubber; and a housing having a structure dividable in an axial direction in which respective openings are secured to each other with an annular seal being interposed therebetween at an outer peripheral side of the elastic connecting rubber. |
| US08573562B2 |
Remote manipulator for manipulating live multiple sub-conductors in a single phase bundle
A manipulator for separating sub-conductors in an energized single phase bundle includes a rigid support member and first and second actuators mounted on the support member, wherein each actuator is independently actuable of the other. Insulators are mounted on each actuator. A selectively releasable coupler is mounted on each insulator for selectively releasable coupling of each insulator to a corresponding sub-conductor. The actuators extend corresponding insulators independently of one another from the support member to thereby separate from each other by an optimized separation distance the distal ends of each insulator. When the corresponding sub-conductors of the single phase bundle are releasably coupled to the corresponding distal ends of the insulators the surge impedance loading of the single phase bundle may be improved by separation of the corresponding distal ends of the insulators and the sub-conductors by the optimized separation distance. |
| US08573559B1 |
Control valve with area independent pressure sensing
A control valve includes a valve body with a longitudinal bore into which a first port, a second port, and a workport communicate. A valve element is slideably received within the longitudinal bore and has a valve element bore extending inwardly from one end. An aperture extends through the valve element to provide a fluid path between the workport and selectively the first port and the second port in different positions of the valve element in the longitudinal bore. A slug of solid material is received within the valve element bore and is operatively connected to transfer a force to a stationary component of the control valve without the force being applied to the valve element. This arrangement results in force due to pressure in the longitudinal bore acting on only an annular surface at the one end of the valve element. |
| US08573558B2 |
Pneumatic actuator air flow control system
A pneumatic actuator air flow control system includes a pneumatic rotary actuator (PRA) and a solenoid air flow control valve (SAFCV). The PRA contains an air reservoir and a vane housing allowing pressurized air to rotate an air-driven vane. The SAFCV includes a flow control valve body (FCVB), a pilot solenoid valve (PSV) and a switch system, wherein the FCVB and the PRA can be connected to direct the pressurized air into the air reservoir, and the PSV is used to control the pressurized air in and out of the PRA to change the vane's rotation movement in the vane housing. Additionally, the switch system allows users to switch between a double-acting and fail-safe operation. When there is no pressurized air and/or electrical power and if an emergent need to open or close the valve, a manual override in the PSV can be used without further installation of a declutchable manual gear operator or external piping when there is no pressurized air and/or electrical power. |
| US08573552B2 |
Cup holder assembly having a pair of lids and a single release button
A cup holder assembly includes a base and a pair of lid assemblies. The lid assemblies are respectively supported on the base for movement between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the lid assemblies are separately biased in the opened position. A pair of locking tabs is supported on the base for movement relative to the lid assemblies, wherein the locking tabs are configured to respectively engage and secure the lid assemblies in the closed position. A release member is supported on the base for movement relative to the locking tabs, wherein the release member is configured to disengage the locking tabs from the lid assemblies when the release member is moved from a first position to a second position. |
| US08573551B2 |
Fine-adjusting apparatus for an overhead projector
A fine-adjusting apparatus for an overhead projector has a mounting frame, an assembling device, a pitch-adjusting device, a left-right adjusting device and a connecting mount. The mounting frame is adapted to mount on a wall. The assembling device is detachably connected to the mounting frame and has a sliding mount and a base mount. The sliding mount is slidably mounted in the mounting frame. The base mount is pivotally connected to the sliding mount. The pitch-adjusting device is connected to the assembling device and has a pitching frame, a guiding bar and a pitch-adjusting shaft. The left-right adjusting device is connected to the pitch-adjusting device and has an adjusting frame, a left-right adjusting shaft and a linking element. The connecting mount is pivotally connected to the left-right adjusting device, is used to connect with the overhead projector and has a connecting board, two pivot frames and multiple extending arms. |
| US08573550B1 |
Radar antenna safety brace
A safety brace for supporting a radar antenna platform movable to an elevated tilted position by a drive shaft having a movable first member and a second member, wherein the first member is movable toward and away from the second member. The safety brace has an elongated cylindrical tube formed of two separable half tubes. Three spaced apart separable coupling brackets are secured to the half tubes across a seam. When the separable brackets are closed, the half tubes are kept in a closed configuration. Two hinged coupling brackets are secured to the half tubes along the opposite seam. Flanges disposed at each of the ends of the elongated tube are configured to abut against the movable first and second members of the drive shaft. The safety brace has gussets secured between the flanges and adjacent outer surface portions of the half tubes. A safety brace system and a method of operating the safety brace are also disclosed. |
| US08573546B2 |
Vertical columns of dollies used for filming
A dolly used for filming includes a vertical telescopic column having a filming head or camera positioned on the end thereof. The column includes a movable tube placed externally around a stationary main column; the movable tube is connected to the end of the telescopic column. A camera-supporting element is in turn movably mounted on the movable tube, and a tilting mechanism is included as well. |
| US08573544B2 |
Apparatus and method for supporting a flexible hose sprinkler head on an elevated irrigation supply line
An adaptive support is provided for a flexible hose sprinkler head on an elevated irrigation supply line that includes a sprinkler support body and a hanger body. The sprinkler support body has a first inter-fitting contact surface. The body is disposed to support a downwardly extending flexible sprinkler hose. The hanger body has a second inter-fitting contact surface configured to mate with the first inter-fitting contact surface. The hanger body is disposed to support the sprinkler body at an elevated position. A method is also provided for changing elevation of a sprinkler head. |
| US08573541B2 |
Wavy airfoil
This invention uses a novel shape of airfoil to achieve an improved lift to drag ratio and to improve performance at higher angles of attack. The airfoil has a three dimensional wave pattern that modifies the shape of a traditional airfoil to coordinate the airflow through channels on both the top and bottom sides. The uniquely shaped airfoil of this invention could have many uses including a wind turbine blade. This invention not only provides for a more efficient device by improving the effective angle of attack and lift/drag ratio, but also provides for a quiet airflow thus greatly reducing nuisance noise over conventional devices. |
| US08573539B2 |
Structure for joining torsion boxes in an aircraft using a triform fitting made from non-metallic composite materials
The invention comprises a triform fitting 1, essentially made from non-metallic composite materials including several strengthening cross ribs 4 for joining symmetrical flanges 3 and a longitudinal flange 2. The symmetrical flanges 3 include cross slots 8 for receiving the run-out 16 of the webs 11 of several T-shaped internal stringers 9 that form part of the torsion boxes 6. The feet 10 of the stringers 9 are joined along one of their faces to the skins 7 of the torsion boxes 6, while the end zones of the free faces of said feet 10 are placed against the outer face of the symmetrical flanges 3 of the triform fitting 1. This ensures that the symmetrical flanges 3 of the triform fitting 1 remain inside the torsion boxes 6. Alternatively, the fitting 1 may not include the cross slots 8. |
| US08573535B2 |
Shape-change material and method
A shape-change material includes a shape memory material layer with an electrically conductive layer on a surface of the shape memory material layer. The conductive material may be used to heat the shape memory material by electrical resistance heating. The conductive material may be a primary heater, providing the heating to cause softening or shape change in the shape memory material, or may be a secondary heater in conjunction with a greater amount of heating from a primary heater, such as a conductive plate that provides electrical resistance heating to a surface of the shape memory material on an opposite side of the shape memory material from the conductive material. One use for the shape-change material is as the skin material for a shape changing material. |
| US08573533B2 |
Method and apparatus for operating an aircraft landing system
A method and apparatus is disclosed in which an aircraft landing system is at least partly primarily powered by power provided by a ram air turbine (RAT). |
| US08573529B2 |
Standoff detection of motion and concealed unexploded ordnance (UXO)
A surveillance system includes a multi-propeller aircraft having a main propeller and a plurality of wing unit propellers; a housing that houses the main propeller and the wing unit propellers; an ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system; a control system for controlling flight of the multi-propeller aircraft from a remote location; and a telemetry system for providing information from the ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system to the remote location. A method includes: remotely controlling flight of the aircraft using a main propeller and a plurality of wing unit propellers with airflow from the main propeller to the wing unit propellers for lift and propulsion; operating an ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system from the aircraft; and transmitting information from the UWB radar imaging system to a display at a location remote from the aircraft. |
| US08573522B2 |
Refiner and method for refining fibrous material
A refiner (1, 18, 19) for refining fibrous material has a first refining surface (4, 11) and a second refining surface (4, 11), arranged at least partly substantially opposite to form a refiner chamber (12) to which material to be defibrated is arranged to be fed. The first or second refining surface is arranged to move in relation to the opposite refining surface. The first refining surface has elongated openings (14, 15) through which fibrous material to be refined is arranged to be fed into the refiner chamber, and/or the second refining surface has elongated openings (14, 15) through which fibrous material refined in the refiner chamber is arranged to be discharged. The elongated openings provided through the refining surface are arranged at an angle transverse to the blade bars and blade grooves of the refining surface on the first and/or second refining surface. |
| US08573520B2 |
Method of producing pulverized coal
A method for producing pulverized coal including the steps of providing a drying gas heated to a predefined temperature in a hot gas generator; feeding the heated drying gas into a pulverizer; introducing raw coal into the pulverizer, the pulverizer grinding the raw coal into pulverized coal; collecting a mixture of drying gas and pulverized coal from the pulverizer and feeding the mixture to a filter, the filter separating the dried pulverized coal from the drying gas; collecting the dried pulverized coal for further use and feeding the drying gas from the filter to an exhaust line; and collecting the drying gas exiting the filter and feeding part of the collected drying gas to a recirculation line for feeding recirculation drying gas to the hot gas generator. According to an important aspect of the present invention, the step of providing the drying gas includes feeding a variable flow rate of hot stove waste gas to the hot gas generator through a hot stove waste gas line so as to maximize the amount of hot stove waste gas used as drying gas. A pressure of the drying gas at a pulverizer gas inlet is controlled by regulating a flow rate of the hot stove waste gas through the hot stove waste gas line. |
| US08573517B2 |
Injector
An injector having an injector body, in which a housing opening and a communication hale are provided, includes a supporting member fixed to an actuator, which includes a lead-wire supporting portion that supports ends of lead wires and a plate portion formed integrally with the lead-wire supporting portion. A thickness of the plate portion is smaller than that of the lead-wire supporting portion, and multiple trench portions are provided on a surface of the plate portion so that the plate portion can be easily bent. While the supporting member passes through the housing opening, the lead wires straight move. After an end portion of the supporting member contacts the communication hole, external force is applied to the end portion to bend the plate portion, and thereby the lead wires are bent while moving in the communication hole. |
| US08573510B2 |
Drift shroud system for spray booms of turf sprayer
A turf sprayer has a truss shaped center boom and a pair of pivotal truss shaped wing booms within which spaced spray nozzles are supported. A drift shroud system comprises three integral and one-piece drift shrouds comprising a center shroud for the center boom and a pair of side shrouds for the wing booms. Each shroud is attached to an underside of the corresponding boom in a manner such that the shrouds project below the booms and not substantially above the booms to leave the truss-shapes of the booms open and unobscured to provide access to the spray nozzles within the booms. The shrouds each have openings in a top wall thereof for receiving the spray exiting from the nozzles with the spray passing downwardly between spaced front and rear walls of the shrouds. |
| US08573505B1 |
Thawing system for machinery undercarriages
A method of heating an undercarriage of a machine featuring obtaining a thawing system with a hydraulic system functioning to heat hydraulic fluid and a first high pressure line and a second high pressure line each fluidly connected to the hydraulic system and each adapted to carry hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic system; operatively connecting the hydraulic system to a main engine of the machine; creating channels in the machine to allow passage of the first high pressure line and the second high pressure line from the hydraulic system to the undercarriage of the machine; and activating the system, wherein when the system is activated the hydraulic fluid is delivered to the undercarriage providing heat to the undercarriage for thawing purposes. |
| US08573504B1 |
Furnace
A furnace for burning solid burning biomass fuels such a municipal waste and wood pellets including a first compartment containing a hopper, a motorized auger positioned in the bottom of the auger for conveying a solid fuel out of the hopper, a first blower tube operatively coupled to the hopper for receiving the solid fuel from the hopper and a first blower operatively coupled to the blower tube for blowing the fuel through first blower tube. In a second compartment, the furnace contains a combustion chamber operatively coupled to the blower tube opposite the first blower and a heat exchanger arranged above the combustion chamber. To cool the heat exchanger, a second blower is operatively coupled to the heat exchanger for blowing a cooling air through the heat exchanger. A programmable control system is operatively coupled to the auger, the first blower, the second blower and a plurality of thermocouples for controlling the operation of the furnace. |
| US08573502B2 |
Modular visual and electronic identification tag
A modular animal ear tag with both visual identification and RFID identification components, with the visual and RFID identification components being easily mated and subsequently separated to facilitate re-use of either or both such components. |
| US08573498B2 |
Identifying duplicate printed paper cash letters
A printed cash letter includes a machine-readable identifier, such as a barcode, identifying the cash letter. Upon printing, information from the identifier is read and stored in a first record. To determine whether the cash letter is a duplicate, a check presentment module compares information from the identifier with information in the first record. If information identifying the cash letter already exists in the first record, the cash letter is a duplicate. To verify cash letter printing, information identifying multiple cash letters to be printed is stored in a second record. Upon printing a portion of the cash letters, information read from identifiers on the printed cash letters is compared with information in the second record. If the second record includes information regarding a cash letter not identified in the information scanned from the barcodes, then the check presentment module identifies the cash letter as having not been printed. |
| US08573495B1 |
Radio frequency identification electronic device with enhancing surface wave-guide effect
A radio frequency identification electronic device with enhancing surface wave-guide effect includes a host or a programmable single IC, an identification transmitting/receiving device electrically connected to the host or the programmable single IC for generating a current, and an enhancing surface wave-guide coaxial cable structure. The enhancing surface wave-guide coaxial cable structure comprises a coaxial cable having at least one breach region without an outer conducting layer and a matching resistor, wherein the current builds up an electromagnetic (EM) wave while flowing through the at least one breach region, and the EM wave is transmitted along the outer conducting layer of the coaxial cable until to the matching resistor. Moreover, an electromagnetic field can be built up while the current flows through the at least one breach region, and a RFID electronic tag attached to an object can be automatically triggered by the electromagnetic field. |
| US08573494B2 |
Apparatus for secure financial transactions
An electronic transaction card communicates with an add-on slot of an intelligent electronic device. The add-on slot may be a memory card slot. The intelligent electronic device may be a mobile phone or other device with or without network connectivity. The electronic transaction card may have magnetic field producing circuitry compatible with magnetic card readers, smartcard circuitry, other point-of-sale interfaces, or any combination thereof. |
| US08573493B2 |
Method and system for smart card virtualization
Methods and systems are provided to allow personal computer users to virtualize a local smart card so that they can remotely connect to a server and interact with the server as if the local smart card was physically connected to the server. They connect a remote smart card target hardware device to the target system through a physical connection, such as a USB connection, and the device interacts with the local user's computer and smart card reader over a network. The target system is unaware that the smart card reader is not connected directly to the system through a physical connection, and the target system does not need special software to implement the remote smart card reader. The smart card target device connected to the target computer may be physically connected and disconnected. |
| US08573492B2 |
Presenting offers to a mobile device associated with information displayed on a television
The claimed subject matter relates to an architecture for interacting with a multiple criteria buying and/or selling system to conduct business electronically. In particular, the architecture can include a dynamic discount card that includes an information access component for receiving information. In addition, the dynamic discount card can include a presentation component for displaying information to a user via the dynamic discount card. |
| US08573485B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method and program for mediating applications
An information processing apparatus is capable of being connected to an IC card via a reader/writer. The information processing apparatus includes a middleware and a device driver provided so as to correspond to the reader/writer. The middleware provides a plurality of applications for the IC card with basic functions shared by the applications. The device driver sequentially processes a plurality of commands received from the plurality of applications via the middleware in the order in which the commands are received so as to control the corresponding reader/writer. In this way, the applications concurrently access the reader/writer. |
| US08573483B1 |
Cash accepting and cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine operates to carry out financial transactions responsive to data bearing records including account data read from user cards. The banking machine may accept checks and dispense cash to users. The machine is operated to acquire image and magnetic data from deposited checks to determine the genuineness of checks and the authority of a user to receive cash for such checks. Cash is then dispensed to the user from the machine in exchange for the deposited checks. |
| US08573478B2 |
Image exchange without full MICR qualification
A system and related methods of correcting errors during check or financial document processing by a bank of first deposit or other entity receiving a paper check or financial document, or by a second bank on whose accounts the checks were written. These corrections can be performed by the computer system of the bank of first deposit, the computer system of the second bank, or both. MICR or other data may be sent in electronic format from the bank of first deposit or other entity without qualification. |
| US08573477B2 |
Promotion system supporting emailed promotions with transaction accounting
An online sales/automatic rebate and coupon redemption system provides online customers automatic retrieval and redemption of all applicable rebates and coupons during purchase. Purchase orders from customers are selectively fulfilled and products are shipped to the customers either by the system for online sales with automatic rebate and coupon redemption or by other merchant or manufacturer environments. The system purchases from merchants using applicable coupons and rebates and then sells the products to the customers, passing the savings to them. The system makes it possible to automatically retrieve coupons and rebates for items in a shopping cart during the activity of an online purchase at an electronic mall or an online merchant site. The system provides coupons to potential customers via email, based on customer profile, geographical information, etc. Manufacturers and merchants can update coupon value and content based on ongoing sales and volume of customer activity. |
| US08573474B2 |
Technical support systems and methods
Exemplary technical support systems and methods are disclosed herein. An exemplary method includes a media content access device obtaining technical support request information from a user, encoding data representative of the technical support request information into a barcode, and providing the barcode for display on a display screen associated with the media content access device. The exemplary method may additionally or alternatively include a mobile device capturing an image of the displayed barcode and transmitting data representative of the image to a technical support subsystem. The exemplary method may additionally or alternatively include a technical support subsystem receiving data representative of the image of the barcode, decoding the barcode code to obtain the technical support request information, and performing one or more technical support operations in response to the technical support request information. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. |
| US08573473B1 |
Mail receptacle
A receptacle for receiving objects, such as mail or parcels, has a main housing having an input opening through which objects may be placed into the receptacle, and a hopper style door rotatable coupled within the housing. The hopper has bottom for receiving an object and a hopper cover disposed under the bottom. The hopper is rotatable between an open position in which the bottom is accessible through the opening and a closed position in which the hopper cover blocks the input opening. A flap is coupled to the hopper and is rotatable between an up position when the hopper is in the open position in which the flap forms a back wall adjacent the rear edge of the bottom, and a down position when the hopper is in the fully closed position in which the flap allows an object to slide off the bottom and out of the hopper. |
| US08573468B1 |
Ultrasonic bonding systems and methods of using the same
An ultrasonic bonding machine is provided. The ultrasonic bonding machine includes a support structure configured to support a workpiece during a bonding operation. The ultrasonic bonding machine further includes an upper bonding tool positioned above the support structure and configured for bonding an upper bonding material to an upper side of the workpiece, and a lower bonding tool positioned below the support structure and configured for bonding a lower bonding material to a lower side of the workpiece. The ultrasonic bonding machine may also be an ultrasonic ribbon bonding machine configured to bond an upper and lower conductive ribbon to a solar substrate. |
| US08573466B2 |
Mold crucible system for connecting tubes and cables and method thereof
A new anchoring mechanism for the mold-crucible set to the tube, to which the cable is to be welded is described, and the inclusion and use of some bushings which are inserted between the cable and the mold. |
| US08573461B2 |
Surgical stapling instruments with cam-driven staple deployment arrangements
A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises an end effector that has a shaft coupled thereto that is coupled to a robotic system. A tool mounting portion includes an electric, DC motor connected to a drive train in the shaft for powering the drive train. A power pack that comprises at least one charge-accumulating device connected to the DC motor for powering the DC motor is provided. |
| US08573460B2 |
Surgical instrument
A surgical instrument comprising a handle assembly, a body, a tool assembly and an articulation assembly is disclosed. The articulation mechanism includes a receptacle, and a main shaft. A lower clutch is fixedly positioned within the receptacle and has a serrated portion including a plurality of serrations. An upper clutch includes at least one projection positioned to engage the serrations of the lower clutch to releasably retain the main shaft at a rotatably fixed position. An angle between a first pair of adjacent serrations is defined as a first angle, an angle between a second pair of adjacent serrations is defined as a second angle, and an angle between a third pair of adjacent serrations is defined as a third angle. The first angle, the second angle, and the third angle are each different from one another. |
| US08573451B2 |
Actuator systems and methods for aerosol wall texturing
An outlet assembly for a spray dispenser comprises an actuator member, an outlet member, and an adjustment member. The actuator member comprises a stem portion, a first displacement surface portion, and at least one finger. The outlet member is arranged adjacent to the actuator member such that the outlet member and the actuator member define a dispensing path and the outlet member is adjacent to the at least one finger. The adjustment member is arranged relative to the actuator member. Movement of the adjustment member relative to the actuator member displaces the adjustment member relative to the actuator member to deform the at least one finger. As the at least one finger deforms, the at least one finger deforms the outlet member to alter a cross-sectional area of the outlet opening. |
| US08573449B2 |
Dispensing device having an elastically deformable section for pumping a fluid
A dispensing device for dispensing a preferably cosmetic fluid is proposed. The dispensing device has an elastically deformable section for pumping a fluid. Simple and easy actuation is made possible by the section having a concave region in the initial position and/or by the thickness of the section varying. |
| US08573445B2 |
Flexible pouch with a tube spout fitment and flexible sleeve
A flexible pouch having a removable cap for use with the tube spout fitment and a method of filling the flexible pouch is provided. The removable cap is formed from a tube of pliable material, and has a first opening and a second opening. The first and second openings each have a peripheral edge. The peripheral edge of the first opening is configured to engage the outer surface of the tube spout fitment. The peripheral edge of the second opening is pressed onto itself and sealed so as to form a flattened edge. The method includes the steps mounting the removable cap onto the tube spout fitment. Filling the pouch, and sealing the second opening of the removable cap so as to form a flattened edge. |
| US08573442B2 |
Method and device for inventory control of a dispensed liquid
A method and device are provided for controlling and reconciling a liquid inventory, such as a volume of liquid dispensed from a container. The device secures a pour spout for dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a container opening, such that the spout may not be removed without detection. The device includes a counting mechanism to count and indicate the total number of pours from the container for use in sales and inventory reconciliation. |
| US08573441B2 |
Integrated valve regulator assembly and system for the controlled storage and dispensing of a hazardous material
The present invention provides for an integrated valve regulator assembly that comprises an integral body having a base portion that includes an axis for mounting on and coaxially with the neck portion of a pressurized source vessel and an assembly outlet, a defined internal passage in the integral body that extends through and between the base portion of the integral body and the assembly outlet, a sub-atmospheric pressure regulator assembled within the integral body of the integrated valve regulator assembly, an isolation valve positioned within the defined internal passage of the integral body and located downstream from and in communication with the sub-atmospheric pressure regulator, and a filling port disposed between the axis for mounting on and coaxially with the neck portion of the pressurized source vessel and the sub-atmospheric pressure regulator. The present invention further provides for a system for the controlled storage and dispensing of a hazardous material at sub-atmospheric pressure that comprises a pressurized source vessel and the integrated valve regulator assembly of the present invention. The present invention further provides for an additional integrated valve regulator assembly as described with the exception that the pressure regulator utilized is for super-atmospheric pressure conditions and also a system that comprises a pressurized source vessel and the integrated valve regulator assembly that includes a super-atmospheric pressure regulator. |
| US08573439B2 |
Sheet metal container with hermetically affixed end walls
The arrangement is applied to a container which includes a peripheral side wall having an upper end portion and a lower end portion in which are applied respective end walls, each including a median panel and a peripheral skirt, one of the upper end portion and lower end portion and the peripheral skirt being provided with at least one circumferential rib turned to the other of said parts, the other part being provided with a circumferential groove conformed to be fitted onto the circumferential rib upon the fitting of said end wall in the interior of one of the upper end portion and lower end portion of the peripheral side wall, said circumferential rib and circumferential groove forming, therebetween, a circumferential gap (F) in the interior of which is compressed an elastic sealing element. |
| US08573437B1 |
Food plate and beverage container holder
A beverage container holder is provided, consisting of an elongated body having a planar upper support surface having alternative engagement mechanisms on opposing ends and at a mid-point thereof. At one end an aperture is formed, having a support suspended therein to receive and retain a beverage container—cup, glass or can. At an opposing end and at a midpoint of the planar upper support surface, a pair of apertures cooperates with the thumb and fingers of a user's hand, to position and secure a food plate against an upper surface of the beverage container holder. The thumb and fingers extend through the apertures from a position below the holder, and in gripping the food plate, the user is also grasping the holder—which in turn may be carrying a beverage container held within the beverage-receiving aperture. |
| US08573435B2 |
Method of making a container
A polyhedron disposable container formed from flexible weldable plastic film and a method of forming the same are provided. The container has opposite ends and an openings that accommodates a port at the center of at least one of such ends. The container also has multiple sides and an opening on at least one such side located midway between the edges of such side. |
| US08573433B2 |
Stackable and collapsible container
Structures, methods, and systems associated with a stackable and collapsible container are provided. One structure includes a stackable and collapsible container having at least four non-collapsible, load bearing vertical support members attached to vertical walls of the container and capable of supporting the weight of other containers. A top surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. A bottom surface is included having a number of sections which include a pivotal connection to one another and which are collapsible about the pivotal connection to an interior of the container. The top and the bottom surfaces of the container can be fixedly positioned in a number of collapsed states. |
| US08573431B2 |
Beverage container closure with venting
A beverage container closure that is adapted for closing an open end of a beverage container. The lid is selectively couplable to the beverage container and includes a selectively openable stopper that when closed, creates a fluid-tight seal between the beverage container and the environment. The stopper may be selectively opened by a user pressing a button disposed on a side of the beverage container closure. The stopper is subsequently automatically closed when the user releases the button. Thus, the user may open and close the beverage container closure using a single hand without the need to remove the beverage container closure from the beverage container. The beverage container closure includes a venting mechanism configured to vent the beverage container before the stopper is opened when the user depresses the button, thereby allowing pressure in the beverage container to equalize before the stopper is opened. |
| US08573426B2 |
Pharmaceutical waste disposal assembly
A pharmaceutical waste disposal assembly (10) includes a receiver body (19), a receiver guide (62), a fluid absorber (70) and a fluid distributor (64). The receiver body (19) receives fluid pharmaceutical waste. The receiver guide (62) guides the fluid pharmaceutical waste into the receiver body (19). The fluid absorber (70) is positioned within the receiver body (19), and is adapted to absorb at least a portion of the fluid pharmaceutical waste that is received by the receiver body (19). The fluid distributor (64) is coupled to the receiver guide (62), and extends at least partially into the fluid absorber (70) so that the fluid distributor (64) distributes the fluid pharmaceutical waste within the fluid absorber (70). The fluid distributor (64) includes a plurality of distributor apertures (278) that allow the fluid pharmaceutical waste to flow from the receiver guide (62) to the fluid absorber (70). |
| US08573423B2 |
Resealable closures
A closure comprising a solid colour spout and a transparent overcap is adapted to be sealed to a container neck by means of a double-sided foil. The overcap has a depending valve, which engages with the spout to hold these components together prior to assembly to the container. The spout has a flange adapted to seat on a rim of the container neck and an annular wall that is received within the container neck. The foil is welded to the flange and is also used to weld the closure to a rim of a container neck of standard threaded design. The overcap can screw to an external thread on the container neck. The primary ex-factory seal is provided by welding the assembled closure to the neck. The secondary seal is provided by the engagement of the overcap valve with the spout. The invention discloses an improved method of assembly. |
| US08573419B2 |
Swing drive system for cranes
A crane includes i) a lower structure comprising ground engaging members ii) an upper structure rotatably connected to the lower structure such that the upper structure can swing with respect to the lower structure, wherein one of the lower structure and upper structure comprises a first structure having a ring gear having teeth on a surface thereof, and the other of the lower structure and upper structure comprises a second structure; and iii) a boom pivotally mounted on the upper structure. The crane further includes a drive system comprising at least two pinion gears mounted on a common frame and in driving contact with the ring gear teeth; and a link connecting the frame to the second structure with two pivot axes between the frame and the second structure. |
| US08573417B1 |
Mobile clothesline
A mobile clothesline provides mobility and is easy to set up and break down, making it ideal for areas with limited space, for example, while not requiring tools for assembly. The mobile clothesline offers an energy efficient alternative to using an electric or gas dryer. The mobile clothesline includes first and second wheeled bases having a receptacle for holding a retractable clothesline post. The post may include a plurality of arms that may extend outward from the post or may be folded in against the post. A retractable line may extend from the arms on one of the posts to interconnect with a receptacle on the arm on the other post. |
| US08573416B2 |
Adjustable shelf assembly
An adjustable shelf assembly including an elongated frame and a first shelf and a second shelf attached to the frame. The frame has a first end and a second end, and generally extends in a first plane. At least a portion of the first and second shelves extends in a second plane generally perpendicular to the first plane. The first and second shelves are separately transversely movable in the second plane relative to the frame. The shelf assembly is in an open position when the first and second shelves are transversely moved away and spaced apart from each other in the second plane, a generally vacant space is formed between the first and second shelves. The shelf assembly is in a closed position when the first and second shelves are positioned proximate to each other. |
| US08573414B2 |
Eyewear display system
The present invention provides a lockable eyewear display system. Embodiments of the system include a frame holder on which the eyewear is placed, a locking mechanism that secures the eyewear to the holder, and a key that enables a user to holder unlock and to remove the eyewear from the holder. In one embodiment, frame holder includes an articulating joint allowing at least a portion of the holder and eyewear to be swiveled. The frame holder is removably attachable to a display rod of the system configured to hold a plurality of frame holders. The display rod includes a lock in one embodiment to prevent removal of the frame holders from the rod without use of a specially configured access key. The display rod is mountable to a surface of a fixture or display object such as a rack or furniture. |
| US08573413B2 |
Anti-theft hand tool rack
A hand tool rack comprising main frame, positioning members and cover frame. The main frame includes two side panels and a mediate portion between the side panels. Each side panel has hook trough and lump. The positioning members mount on the mediate portion and allow hand tool to position. The cover frame has two brace pieces, and each brace piece has hook and guiding slot. When the brace pieces are hooked with the side panels, each hook is clipped into the corresponding hook trough and each lump is lodged into the corresponding guiding slot. Therefore, the hand tool rack is ensured to be anti-theft and user-friendly. |
| US08573411B2 |
Merchandise hanger and method of use
A retail assembly includes a product assembly for retail sale and a hanger. The product assembly defines rear surface and a footprint. The hanger includes an elongated plate, a hinge, and an extension member. The elongated plate defines a first elongated edge and a front surface coupled to the rear surface of the product assembly. The hinge extends from the first elongated edge. The extension member extends from the hinge in an opposite direction as the elongated plate and defines a support surface for interacting with a retail display. The hanger rotates about the hinge between an unfolded position and a folded position. When the hanger is in one of the folded position and the unfolded position, the extension member is maintained within the footprint of the product assembly. When the hanger is in the other position, the extension member extends outside the footprint of the product assembly. |
| US08573410B2 |
Collapsible dish drying rack
A collapsible dish drying rack is provided. A plurality of shaped wires is rotatably mounted on two arms attached to a pivotable first wire support members and on a second wire support member. The first wire support member is pivoted upwardly to raise the shaped wires and pivoted downwardly to lower the shaped wire thereby to position the wires between the wire support members in a relatively flat position. An outside surface of the pivotable first support member can function as a cutting board. |
| US08573404B2 |
Continuous particle and macro-molecular zeta potential measurements using field flow fractionation combined micro-electrophoresis
In one general aspect, an instrument for measuring characteristics of particles suspended in a fluid is disclosed. It includes a closed wall surface defining a fractionation channel having a input opening, an output opening, and a flow axis that spans downstream from the input opening for the channel to the output opening. A force application subsystem has a force application output oriented perpendicular to at least part of the flow axis of the fractionation channel. A particle characteristic measurement subsystem is located hydraulically downstream from at least a portion of the closed wall surface defining the fractionation channel, and includes a sensor positioned to sense a property of the suspended particles in the potential measurement subsystem as well as a signal output responsive to the sensor. A result processor has a signal input responsive to the signal output of the particle characteristic measurement subsystem, zeta potential processing logic responsive to the particle characteristic measurement subsystem, and a particle characteristic signal output responsive to the particle characteristic processing logic. |
| US08573402B2 |
Reusable dispensing receptacle system with preservative attributes
This invention relates to containers for the storage and dispensing of materials which evaporate, deteriorate or oxidize when exposed to air. A reusable dispensing receptacle system with preservative attributes is comprised of four essential components. The invention by combination includes a vessel, a follower or partition to separate contents from direct exposure to convecting ambient void air within the vessel, a volumetrically adjustable insert to displace ambient air from the vessel, and a lid. The system is simple in construction, and intuitive in use. The system is easily handled and is intended for use in any setting. The system provides a solution for extending the freshness and usability of liquid or pour-able dry contents after the seal of an original package has been broken. This combination eliminates convoluted, intricate, and costly means in favor of those that are reliable, simple, re-usable, and affordable. These four components may be combined to further simplify the invention. |
| US08573398B2 |
Refillable flexible sheet dispenser
A flexible sheet container is provided that permits a user to quickly and easily feed a leading sheet. The container has a base portion that defines a storage area and a top covering the base portion. The top includes an opening into the storage area through which individual flexible sheets are dispensed. A pair of opposing flaps is pivotally attached to the top at their first ends and each extends toward the dispensing opening with its second end. The complementary second ends of the flaps together further define the dispensing opening while in a dispensing position. The flaps pivot inward toward the storage area to provide access through the opening into the storage area. As such, to feed a leading flexible sheet, a user may rotate the flaps inward, grab a leading flexible sheet, and pull it through the opening. During dispensing, the flaps rotate outward and retain subsequent sheets. |
| US08573397B1 |
Retail phone package
A thermoformed package that is specially adapted to allow a cell phone (or similar product) to be partially packaged at one time and place, and then at a later time adapted for sale as a finished product with a particular brand (from a variety of brands or trademarks), and/or with a particular service plan (from a variety of rate plans or payment terms and/or languages) and/or with a particular language (or other localization) at a second time and place. |
| US08573386B2 |
System of devices for transporting rod shaped elements in production arrangement of tobacco industry
System having a transitory store (S), in the inlet zone (5) of which, there are disposed fillers (4) for compartment trays, to which rod shaped elements are delivered by in-feed conveyors (3) in form of mass flow from making machines (1), and each machine is assigned with a separate filler (4). In the outlet zone (9) of the store (S) there are disposed unloaders (8) for said trays, and rod shaped elements are delivered by out-feed conveyors (10) in form of mass flow to processing machines (2), and each machine (2) is assigned with a separate unloader (8). On the trajectory of each out-feed conveyor (10) there is situated an emptying hopper (11) co-operating with a mobile filler (12) for compartment trays. Moreover in the inlet zone (5) of the store (S) there is situated a filler (4′) for compartment trays, connected to an unloader (6) for one chamber trays with an in-feed conveyor (3′), and an in-feed conveyor (14), and in the outlet zone (9) there is situated an out-feed conveyor (15). |
| US08573385B2 |
Cleaning apparatus for escalator rails
An exemplary cleaning apparatus (100) for escalator rails includes an insertion receiver (110) installed in a separation space between step chain rollers (3a). At least one cleaning belt (120) extends from the insertion receiver (110), for at least partially wrapping around the step chain rollers (3a). A retaining fixture (130) secures ends of the at least one cleaning belt (120) in a fixed position relative to the insertion receiver (110). |
| US08573384B2 |
Bulk material conveyor belt scraper having a dust skirt and method of using the same
An improved bulk material conveyor belt scraper comprises a skirt that shields mounting surfaces from the bulk material dust. By shielding the mounting surfaces from bulk material dust, such dust does not interfere with the replacement of the scraper blade. The belt scraper also comprises an improved securing mechanism for attaching belt scrapers to belt scraper mounts. The improved securing mechanism comprises pegs that have an elongate transverse cross-section that more evenly distributes bearing loads between the belt scrapers and their respective mounts. This eliminates local yielding that can cause belt scrapers to become loose over time. |
| US08573380B2 |
Article accumulation table for a conveyor installation
A planar table for accumulating items for conveying equipment, including: two parallel planar inlet and outlet conveyors that are driven in opposite directions so as to longitudinally move the items. The planar conveyors form an item transit area that has a variable receiving surface, and a diverting member for transferring the items, arranged on the inlet conveyor, to the outlet conveyor. The diverting member is shaped as a curved wall arranged on a longitudinally movable carriage. The wall extends substantially over the entire width of the inlet conveyor, between a side chute and a structure arranged between the two conveyors and on which the carriage is attached. There is an area for feeding items onto the outlet conveyor, the feeding area is arranged outside said transit area. |
| US08573374B2 |
Hydrodynamic torque converter
The invention relates to a hydrodynamic torque converter having an impeller wheel, a turbine wheel and an oscillation damper which is accommodated in the converter housing, and a converter lockup clutch. Two damper stages are arranged here as a serial damper between the output hub of the torque converter and the converter lockup clutch, and a damper stage is arranged between the turbine wheel and the output hub. In order to improve the damping properties, a rotary oscillation absorber is additionally provided which is arranged between the dampers and is also connected to the turbine wheel in a rotationally fixed fashion. |
| US08573368B2 |
Motor driven parking brake actuator system for mower
A parking brake actuator system for an outdoor power equipment unit, such as a riding lawn mower, comprises a reversible electric motor that drives a gear reduction assembly. The gear reduction assembly rotates an output shaft at a speed slower than the speed of rotation of the motor. The output shaft has opposite ends that are linked by a pair of actuating rods to a pair of parking brakes. As the motor is rotated in reverse rotary directions, the connecting portions of the rods that are coupled to the parking brakes are moved in opposite, straight line directions to move the parking brakes between brake disengaged and brake engaged positions. |
| US08573364B2 |
Automated elevator fixture addressing
An exemplary method of automatically addressing a plurality of fixtures in an elevator system includes establishing a shared communication link between a central controller and the plurality of fixtures. The method includes determining whether a selected elevator device operation is performed at a location of a fixture and enabling the corresponding fixture to receive initializing information, such as addressing information. The central controller broadcasts the initializing information over the communication link for automatically providing the initializing information to the enabled, corresponding fixture. By enabling only one fixture at a time, based on the selected elevator device operation, the central controller is able to accurately address each of the fixtures individually even though the initializing information is broadcast over the shared link. |
| US08573363B2 |
Apparatus for guiding a vehicle onto a service lift using a machine vision wheel alignment system
An apparatus is provided for guiding a vehicle onto a service lift having a pair of runways for receiving the wheels of the vehicle. In one embodiment, a machine vision wheel alignment system including an image sensor, a processor, and a display provides a visual display of the vehicle and the runways to guide an operator of the vehicle to drive the vehicle wheels onto the runways. In other embodiments, a pair of runway targets and a vehicle target are viewed by a pair of image sensors of a machine vision wheel alignment system. Image signals from the image sensors are processed to determine respective positions of the runways and to monitor a position of the vehicle relative to the runways, and a visual reference is displayed to guide an operator of the vehicle. |
| US08573362B2 |
Device and method for the lubrication of a chain drive
An application device and a method of use for the lubrication of a chain drive, more preferably for motorcycle chain drives or the like, includes a rail device. The rail device having a longitudinal side that can be brought to bear against a chain of the chain drive. The rail device includes a contact region formed of a consumable solid lubricant that can be applied to the chain and that can be brought in contact with the chain. |
| US08573361B2 |
Lubricating structure of a rotational shaft oil sealing portion
A lubricating structure of a rotational shaft oil sealing portion includes a casing, a rotational shaft rotatably retained by the casing, an annular space defined between the casing and the rotational shaft, an annular oil seal retained by the casing at one axial end of the annular space and sealing a clearance between the casing and the rotational shaft, the annular oil seal defining an oil seal chamber at the other axial end of the annular space, an oil supply passage, an oil drain passage, and an oil groove formed at the inner peripheral wall of the casing by cutting away the inner peripheral wall into a crescent shape in a circumferential direction, the oil supply passage communicating with the oil groove at a circumferentially center portion of the oil groove, wherein pressurized lubricating oil is supplied to the oil groove via the oil supply passage. |
| US08573357B1 |
Acoustical door
An acoustical door comprising an inner core assembly includes a spacer frame having a first set of spacer strips extending along a first direction and a second set of spacer strips extending along a second direction. The inner core assembly further includes first and second core layers positioned within the spacer frame. The second core layer is constructed of a material dissimilar from the first core layer. The acoustical door further comprises a multi-layer skin spaced apart from the inner core assembly. The multi-layer skin includes a sheet constructed of lead. The acoustical door also includes a spacer coupling the multi-layer skin and the inner core assembly around a mutual periphery. An air space is defined within the mutual periphery and between the multi-layer skin and the inner core assembly such that the multi-layer skin is configured to flex independent of the inner core assembly. |
| US08573356B1 |
Adjustable device for acoustic modification
An adjustable sound panel having a sound diffusing element and a sound absorbing element. |
| US08573352B2 |
Electric power steering apparatus
As a quotient, which is produced when the value of an assistive current for causing an electric motor to generate an assistive torque is divided by the value of a steering torque detected by a steering torque sensor, becomes greater, a greater phase-lag compensation (smaller phase-lead compensation) is performed on the steering torque detected by the steering torque sensor. Within a region in which the steering sensation is reduced, a greater phase-lead compensation is performed. |
| US08573349B2 |
Forklift
In order to decrease the number of handling components of a parking brake unit without increasing a length of a wheel base, there is provided a forklift including a main input shaft which is rotationally driven by a hydraulic motor, a differential input shaft which rotates by the rotation of the main input shaft, and a differential mechanism which is provided between the differential input shaft and a front axle, the forklift being configured to run by transmitting power of the hydraulic motor to the front axle through the main input shaft, the differential input shaft, and the differential mechanism, wherein an idle shaft is disposed so as to be parallel to the differential input shaft, a power transmission mechanism obtained by meshing gears and is interposed between the differential input shaft and the idle shaft, and then a parking brake unit is provided in the idle shaft. |
| US08573348B2 |
Power train, vehicle and methods
A powertrain is adapted to drive ground-engaging elements disposed along longitudinally-opposing sides of a vehicle. The powertrain includes at least one engine, a first electric machine, a second electric machine, a third electric machine, a first differential mechanism and a second differential mechanism. The engine and first electric machine are operatively connected to the first and second differential mechanisms. The second electric machine is operatively connected to the first differential mechanism and the third electric machine is operatively connected to the second differential mechanism. The first and second differential mechanisms are each operatively connected to drivably engage one or more ground-engaging elements disposed on a different one of the longitudinally-opposing sides of the associated vehicle. A vehicle including such a powertrain as well as methods of using the same are also included. |
| US08573345B2 |
Ground level servicing of large work vehicles
A work vehicle includes a chassis, an engine compartment and an engine. The engine compartment is carried by the chassis and defined by a plurality of upstanding walls, one of which includes an openable access panel. The engine is carried by the chassis and includes a plurality of service points positioned inside and adjacent to the access panel for servicing the engine by a person positioned outside the access panel. |
| US08573341B2 |
Wheelchair suspension
The present invention provides a suspension for a conveyance that is capable of traversing obstacles and rough terrain. The suspension includes a frame, a pivot arm, a front caster, a drive assembly and a rear caster. The pivot arm and the drive assembly are coupled and decoupled based on movement of the drive assembly. |
| US08573338B2 |
Self-powered vehicle with selectable operational modes
There is provided a battery powered golf cart with selectable dual operative modes, walk-behind/ride-on modes, including three units: a drive/riding unit, a golf bag support unit, and a front caster wheel assembly. The three units are interconnected for cooperative association in the two operative modes by a bar linkage system, having two stable positions. |
| US08573334B2 |
Rotation device for load transporting apparatus
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a load transporting apparatus that is capable of being steered while transporting a load across a base surface. In particular, the load transporting apparatus includes a roller track configured to support movement of a roller assembly, and a support foot that is connected to the roller track with a pin connector. During load transport, the support foot can be maintained in a substantially similar position relative to a frame structure supporting the load even when the transport movement is not in a parallel direction to the orientation of the support foot. |
| US08573330B2 |
Highly wear resistant diamond insert with improved transition structure
An insert for a drill bit may include a metallic carbide body; an outer layer of polycrystalline diamond material on the outermost end of the insert, the polycrystalline diamond material comprising a plurality of interconnected first diamond grains and a first binder material in interstitial regions between the interconnected first diamond grains; and at least one transition layer between the metallic carbide body and the outer layer, the at least one transition layer comprising a composite of second diamond grains, first metal carbide particles, and a second binder material, wherein the second diamond grains have a larger grain size than the first diamond grains. |
| US08573329B2 |
Rotation inhibiting apparatus
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus to inhibit rotation within a drilling rig. The apparatus may include a first member connected to a first component of the drilling rig, and a second member connected to the first member and connected to a second component of the drilling rig, the second component configured to move vertically with respect to the first component. The first member is configured to move vertically with respect to the second member and the first member and the second member substantially inhibit rotation between each other. The apparatus may include a rotational adjustment system, in which the rotational adjustment system is used to connect with one of the components of the drilling rig. |
| US08573328B1 |
Hydrocarbon well completion system and method of completing a hydrocarbon well
The present apparatus and method of use allows a blow out preventer to be installed as a unit with a section of casing, and does not require the blow out preventer to be removed as subsequent strings of casing are installed, thus efficiently utilizing drilling rig time. The present invention further allows a casing string to be landed and cemented in place, and then the drilling rig may move off the location, without a permanent wellhead housing attached to the well. The primary apparatus utilized in the invention is a tubular connector which suspends a string of casing during cementing, and which receives a casing plug for sealing the well when drilling operations have been completed. When completion operations commence, a permanent wellhead housing is attached to the tubular connector utilizing a unique metal to metal seal. |
| US08573327B2 |
Apparatus and methods for estimating tool inclination using bit-based gamma ray sensors
A drill bit made according to one embodiment may include a bit body having a longitudinal axis, a plurality of gamma sensors placed in the bit body, at least two gamma ray sensors in the plurality of sensors are spaced-apart from each other along the longitudinal axis of the bit body, wherein each such sensor in the plurality of sensors is configured to detect gamma rays from the formation during drilling of the wellbore and to provide signals representative of the detected gamma rays, and a circuit configured to process at least partially the signals from each of the at least two gamma ray sensors for estimating an inclination of the bit body relative to the longitudinal axis. |
| US08573318B2 |
Fire extinguisher nozzle
An extinguisher for minimizing fires includes a container for holding an extinguishing fluid, a propellant disposed within the container for expelling the fluid from the container if desired, and a nozzle for directing the fluid towards a fire. The nozzle has an input for receiving the fluid from the container and an outlet for directing the fluid towards the fire. The nozzle includes an expansion chamber disposed between the input and the outlet of the nozzle. The nozzle outlet has a restrictor for restricting flow of the fluid from the expansion chamber. |
| US08573316B2 |
Concealed horizontal sidewall sprinkler
A horizontal sidewall fire protection sprinkler has a deflector having a vertical face, transverse to the fluid flow from the output orifice, and a horizontal shelf positioned above and perpendicular to the vertical face. A portion of the horizontal shelf extends in the fluid flow direction by a first length, with respect to the vertical face, and this first length is less than about half of the total length of the horizontal shelf in the fluid flow direction. The sprinkler may be installed in a support cup having a raised mounting platform configured to receive the sprinkler body and a cylindrical outer surface. A horizontal or pendent fire protection sprinkler has a body having an output orifice and a flange and a seal cap to seal a flow of fluid from the output orifice and a thermally-responsive element positioned to releasably retain the seal cap. Housing members extend through and from the flange of the sprinkler body, and contain rods, each of which extends through the flange. A deflector is connected to ends of the rods. |
| US08573315B1 |
Self-testing and self-calibrating fire sprinkler system, method of installation and method of use
A Self-Testing and Self-Setting residential fire pump system for residential fire protection. The system is designed to boost pressure into a residential sprinkler system when water supply is insufficient to meet the sprinkler system's design requirements. The system comprises an in-line vertical multi-stage, centrifugal pump connected to an electric motor with horsepower ranges from ¾ to 10, a flow rate range of 15 gpm-200 gpm, and pressure ranges of 20 psi-238 psi. The system also comprises a controller assembly which is programmed to Self-Test and Self-Calibrate to most residential fire sprinkler systems with the push of a button, and a manifold made from brass or stainless steel pipe fittings connected to the pump's suction and discharge ports, allowing water to flow from an existing water supply through the pump to either the test loop or existing residential fire sprinkler system. The pump and controller can be mounted on an ABS base. |
| US08573314B2 |
Packer system with reduced friction during actuation
A technique involves a packer formed as an expandable packer with an internal expandable bladder. A mechanical structure is deployed around the expandable bladder, and an anti-extrusion layer is located between the internal, expandable bladder and the mechanical structure. A separate protective layer is positioned between the internal, expandable bladder and the mechanical structure to reduce friction. |
| US08573306B2 |
Apparatus and method for recovering fluids from a well and/or injecting fluids into a well
Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retro-fitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. |
| US08573305B2 |
Pull-head release mechanism for bend stiffener connector
An automatic release system for a riser includes a guide funnel assembly that receives a shaft coupled to the riser. A pull-head is located inside at least a portion of the shaft and coupled to the shaft. The pull-head is coupled to a pulling mechanism. One or more spring-loaded dogs are mounted on the outside of the shaft. The dogs radially move in and out through one or more openings in the shaft aligned with the dogs and engage a groove on the pull-head when radially moved in through the openings. One or more stopper mechanisms are mounted on the outside of the shaft and aligned with the dogs. In a first position, the stopper mechanisms inhibit the dogs from disengaging from the groove in the pull-head. In a second position, the stopper mechanisms allow the dogs to disengage from the groove in the pull-head. |
| US08573302B2 |
Surfactants and friction reducing polymers for the reduction of water blocks and gas condensates and associated methods
Improved treatment fluids and methods for use in subterranean operations including the treatment of low permeability shale formations. In one embodiment the methods comprise: providing a treatment fluid comprising an aqueous base fluid and a controlled wetting system that comprises: a water soluble polymer having a charge, a surfactant having an opposite charge, and a compatibilizer; and introducing the treatment fluid into a subterranean formation. |
| US08573294B2 |
Cable bypass and method for controlled entry of a tubing string and a cable adjacent thereto
A system and methodology for controlled entry of a tubing string, and cable adjacent thereto, into a wellbore. A stationary housing is fit to a wellhead and has a bore in communication with the wellbore. The cable can be laterally displaced from the bore into a cable access formed into the housing's side wall for fitting a sealing assembly to the bore and engages a sealing surface therein. The sealing assembly seals tubulars passing therethrough. The cable access interrupts the sealing surface. A cable bypass sub is fit to the cable access and permits the cable to extend sealingly from above the sealing surface to the wellbore wherein the cable bypasses the sealing assembly and sealing surface. A seal reconstitutes the interrupted portion of the sealing surface at the cable access. |
| US08573293B1 |
Dual rubber cartridge
A housing of a dual rubber cartridge attaches at least one rubber to an inner barrel for rotation with the inner barrel. A first rubber and a second rubber may attach to the housing for quick installation of the rubbers. The user removes the housing to remove and replace the two rubbers. |
| US08573291B2 |
Compact radial counterflow recuperator
An annular design heat exchanger is formed from an arrangement of wedge-shaped stacks of wafers. Each wafer includes sheets of material separated by peripheral and supporting walls that define interior flow channels through which a first fluid can flow. Holes in the sheets provide inlets and outlets to the channels, and walls surrounding the holes mate with neighboring wafers in the stack, forming integral inlet and outlet manifolds, while ensuring uniform spacing between the wafers. A second fluid can flow around the manifolds and through the spaces between the wafers in a counterflow pattern. In the annular assembly, the manifolds are oriented substantially axially, and the flow channels are oriented substantially radially. The heat exchanger can be formed from a ceramic material, and can be incorporated into an engine assembly or a heat-recirculating combustor. |
| US08573289B1 |
Micro-architected materials for heat exchanger applications
A Heat Exchanger comprising a three-dimensional ordered microstructure material within a shell. The three-dimensional ordered microstructure material has dimensions that allow for large surface area to volume ratios, between 300 and 15000 m2/m3. Alternatively the three-dimensional ordered microstructure may have an open volume fraction between 0.4 and 0.6. The three-dimensional ordered microstructure may be comprised of hollow truss elements and partially filled with a thermally conductive material or a fluid. The Heat Exchanger has a heat transfer coefficient multiplied by the surface area to volume ratio between 3.7*107 and 7*109 Watts per M3K. |
| US08573287B2 |
Plate heat exchanger
The invention relates to a plate heat exchanger with a plate packet including a plurality of heat exchanger plates, which are stacked onto each other. The heat exchanger plates form first plate interspaces for a first medium and second plate interspaces for a second medium. The plate package has a space which is disposed inside a first inlet and a first outlet. Structure is arranged for creating, for each of the first plate interspaces, an inlet opening for the first medium from the space into the first plate interspaces and an outlet opening for the first medium from the first plate interspaces to the space. |
| US08573286B2 |
Heat exchanger for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, comprising a first flow path (1), a deflection region (13) located downstream of the first flow path (1) and a second flow path (2) that is located downstream of the deflection region (13). The first and second flow paths (1, 2) can be traversed by a fluid to be cooled and can be surrounded by a coolant to dissipate heat. The second flow path (2) has a flow resistance that differs from that of the first flow path (1). |
| US08573280B2 |
Press cushion for a hydraulic press
A press cushion (7, 17, 27) for a hydraulic press (1) including a first layer (9, 19, 39) which is impermeable to fluids and includes an elastomeric material and fibers connected therewith; a second layer (10, 20, 40) connected with the first layer (9, 19, 39), wherein the second layer is also impermeable to fluids, wherein the first layer (9, 19, 39) is provided with a plurality of channels (15, 22, 28, 36) on its side oriented towards the second layer (10, 20, 40), wherein the channels include a material that is flow-capable at least at the operating temperature of the press (1). Additionally the channels (15) are closed fluid tight at least through the second layer (10, 20, 40). |
| US08573279B2 |
Coating film transfer tool
A coating film transfer tool in which refills can be replaced and which can be switched between a useable state and a non-useable state through a pushing operation includes a case main body accommodating a refill having a front case and a rear case. The rear case is detachably attached to the front case. An opening from which a transfer head can project is formed at a front end of the front case. The rear case has a push mechanism having an elastic member configured to cause the transfer member to appear from and disappear into the opening, a push button which operates the push mechanism, and an engagement portion extending to the front from the push mechanism that moves in a front-to-rear direction within the case main body in response to the push mechanism. The engagement portion attaches near a rear end of the refill to support the refill. |
| US08573277B2 |
Coating film transfer tool
There is provided a coating film transfer tool with a reduced number of components and a high degree of design freedom, including a feed spool, a transfer head, a take-up spool, a transfer portion case that holds the feed spool, the transfer head and the take-up spool, a slip member that pivotally supports the feed spool and is loosely fitted in the transfer portion case, a feed-side gear securely fitted on the slip member in a position lying between the feed spool and the slip member, and a take-up-side gear that rotates together with the take-up spool. In the coating film transfer tool a rotation of the feed spool is transmitted to the take-up spool by the gears. The coating film transfer tool further includes a load adjusting means and a rotational speed adjusting means. |
| US08573273B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire has a plurality of recesses provided on the surface of each figures of a first indication portion. The recesses are provided so as to extend in the tire circumferential direction and are aligned side by side with each other in a direction crossing the extending direction. One end side and the other end side in the width direction of each recess are formed by curved surfaces of which a center of curvature is disposed at the outside in the tire width direction. Therefore, gradation of brightness occurs on the curved surface on the each recess. The gradation on the each recess changes depending on the viewing direction or the lighting direction. Therefore, each figure in the first indication portion looks three-dimensionally and can become more conspicuous than the other portions of a side wall. |
| US08573272B2 |
Self-supporting pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire includes a carcass, a tread, a belt reinforcing structure located radially outward of the carcass and radially inward of the tread, and an insert located in each sidewall. Each insert comprises a plurality of separate rib members. The carcass includes a reinforcing ply structure extending between a pair of bead portions and a pair of sidewalls. Each sidewall is located radially outward of one of the pair of bead portions. |
| US08573270B2 |
Self-inflating tire and pressure regulator
A self-inflating tire assembly includes an air tube connected to a tire and defining an air passageway, the air tube being composed of a flexible material operative to allow an air tube segment opposite a tire footprint to flatten, closing the passageway, and resiliently unflatten into an original configuration. The air tube is sequentially flattened by the tire footprint in a direction opposite to a tire direction of rotation to pump air along the passageway to a regulator device. The regulator device regulates the inlet air flow to the air tube and the outlet air flow to the tire cavity. |
| US08573269B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having continuous ribs and a block row
A pneumatic tire including five land portions in a tread surface 1 by providing four main grooves in a ground contact region of the tread surface, wherein positions and groove widths of the main grooves are specified together with only one land portion positioned outermost on a vehicle outer side when mounted on a vehicle being formed into a block row, and the other land portions being formed into ribs, and a groove area proportion of the tread surface is larger on a vehicle inner side than the vehicle outer side with a tire equator and center lines of some of the land portions as boundaries. |
| US08573263B2 |
Apparatus and method for custom cosmetic dispensing
Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed. |
| US08573262B2 |
System and method for automatically adjusting an ORVR compatible stage II vapor recovery system to maintain a desired air-to-liquid (A/L) ratio
A system and method for automatically adjusting an ORVR-compatible Stage II vapor recovery system to maintain the air-to-liquid (A/L) ratio within desired tolerances or limits to meet regulatory and/or other requirements. An air flow sensor (AFS) or vapor flow meter measures the amount of recovered vapor for a dispensing point to calculate the recovery efficiency of the system in the form of the A/L ratio. Volume or flow rate measurements can be used. ORVR fueling transactions are either minimized or excluded from the A/L ratio, so that the A/L ratio is not artificially lowered due to a blocked or altered recovery. The A/L ratio is then compared to a desired or nominal A/L ratio. Adjustments to the recovery system are made within prescribed safety tolerances if the A/L ratio differs from the desired ratio. |
| US08573261B2 |
Woven multi-layer fabrics and methods of fabricating same
A multi-layer ballistic woven fabric, including an upper woven layer having upper warp yarns and upper weft yarns that are interwoven together to form the upper woven layer. The multi-layer ballistic woven fabric also includes a lower woven layer having lower warp yarns and lower weft yarns that are interwoven together, and a plurality of securing yarns, each securing yarn interwoven with at least some of the upper yarns and some of the lower yarns so as to secure the upper and lower woven layers together. At least one of the securing yarns is woven underneath a first lower weft yarn, then above a second upper weft yarn adjacent the first lower weft yarn, then underneath a third lower weft yarn adjacent the second upper weft yarn and then above a fourth upper weft yarn adjacent the third lower weft yarn. |
| US08573260B2 |
Corrugated metal pipe
A metal pipe of single piece includes a wall formed of a single corrugated metal sheet. The sheet has opposing first and second edges extending longitudinally along the sheet. The wall includes a seam formed by abutting portions of the first and second edges. The seam extends helically about and along a length of the wall. The wall has an interior wall side and an opposing exterior wall side. The metal sheet has an interior wall side and an opposing exterior wall side. The interior wall side defines an inner wall surface of the wall, and the exterior wall side defines an outer wall surface of the wall. The sheet has a sinusoidal cross-sectional profile defining 5 corrugation peaks at the inner wall surface and 5 corrugation peaks at the outer wall surface. The sheet has a flattened sheet width of approximately 27¼ inches and a finished sheet width of approximately 23 inches. |
| US08573258B2 |
Faucet
A faucet has a hollow main body. The main body has a mounting section, an extending section, at least one inlet and a passage. The mounting section has a top and a bottom. The extending section is mounted securely on the top of the mounting section and has an extending direction and at least one elongated outlet. The at least one elongated outlet is formed in the extending section and has a maximal length along the extending direction of the extending section. The at least one inlet is formed in the bottom of the mounting section. The passage is formed in the main body and communicates with the at least one elongated outlet and the at least one inlet. Because the elongated outlets are elongated along the extending direction of the extending section, an efflux from the elongated outlet can conform to hands of users and enhance washing efficiency. |
| US08573256B2 |
Revolving switching device
A revolving switch device with a sleeve and an operating handle comprising: a body with two inlet holes, a first water passage and an installation hole connected between the upper inlet hole and said first water passage; a plug, sealed and mounted in the installation hole, is capable of revolving between a first and second position, said plug having an outer revolving surface with an arc groove, and the bottom of said plug is concave to form a second water passage, said outer revolving surface of said plug has a connecting hole, which having an inner end for connecting said second water passage and an outer end in the outer revolving surface. When the plug occupies the first position, said arc groove connects the upper inlet hole and first water passage. In the second position, the lower inlet connects to the outer end of the connecting hole. |
| US08573255B2 |
Valve assembly for high-pressure fluid reservoir
A valve assembly is disclosed for controlling fluid flow between two reservoirs. The valve assembly includes a relief valve arranged inside the housing and configured to open a first fluid flow path when the first reservoir is above a first predetermined pressure value. |
| US08573253B2 |
Valve assembly for gas container
There is disclosed a valve assembly for a gas container capable of appropriately discharging a gas from the gas container, even if a valve of a discharge passage has a failure or the like. The valve assembly for the gas container disposed at the gas container has, as passages which allow the inside of the gas container to communicate with the outside, a filling passage which fills the gas container with the gas and a discharge passage which discharges the gas. Furthermore, the valve assembly has a filling-side valve disposed at the filling passage and configured to close this passage, a discharge-side valve disposed at the discharge passage and configured to close this passage, a communication path which connects a downstream side of the discharge-side valve to a downstream side of the filling-side valve, and a shut-off valve disposed at the communication path. When the discharge-side valve does not open due to the failure or the like, the shut-off valve is opened to allow the gas to flow through the filling passage, the communication path and the discharge passage in this order. |
| US08573251B2 |
Flow rate control valve
A flow rate control valve, wherein the flow rate control valve is provided with a first circular tube section having first and second ports formed on a body forming the flow rate control valve, and also with a plate section mounted to the upper part of the first circular tube section through a mounting section. The plate section is provided to only one end side of the first circular tube section, is supported on the mounting section in a cantilever manner, and is formed flat. |
| US08573249B2 |
Relief valve for oil pump
A relief valve for an oil pump, may include a housing defining a relief space, a plunger slidably disposed in the relief space and dividing the relief space into a housing chamber and a plunger chamber, an elastic member elastically supporting the plunger and being compressed by oil pressure of the main gallery, wherein the oil pressure of the main gallery may be relatively lower than an oil pressure under a warm-up state of the engine, a locator disposed under the plunger and supporting the elastic member, a plug coupled to a lower portion of the housing under the relief space and supporting the locator such that a modulus of elasticity in the elastic member may be changed by a change in seat position of the elastic member, and a negative pressure supplier selectively generating negative vacuum pressure in the locator such that a height of the locator changes. |
| US08573246B2 |
Automatic filling termination device and cryogenic vessel with the same
An automatic filling termination device and a cryogenic vessel are provided including a body with a chamber, defined in the cryogenic vessel and provided with an inlet, communicated with the inlet for filling cryogenic medium into the chamber, and an outlet, arranged on the top wall of the body for discharging the cryogenic medium in the chamber into the cryogenic vessel; a flow termination member blocking the outlet, defined in the chamber of the body and has a predetermined weight to not be floated in the cryogenic medium; a floater, located outside the body and moving up and down when the liquid level of the cryogenic medium as filled into the cryogenic vessel is changed; and a connection, penetrated through the outlet to connect the flow termination member with the floater, wherein the outlet internal diameter is greater than the connection outer diameter by a predetermined dimension. |
| US08573245B1 |
Fuel manifold for turbine
A fuel manifold for turbine engines, such as the large turbines used for generating electrical power, has a housing with straight internal porting for routing fuel and purge media streams to the combustion area of the turbine. A pressure balanced fuel valve regulates fuel using a poppet actuator. A piston section of the actuator dynamically seals off actuation pressure from the fuel. A valve section of the actuator dynamically seals off a vented area from the fuel and regulates fuel flow through the valve. The piston section has internal porting to a collector tube within the vented area for directing media leaked past the piston seal(s) to a vent port, and thereby prevent mixing of the fuel and actuation media. |
| US08573241B2 |
Systems and processes for field-initiated fluid regulation testing
Systems and processes may provide field-initiated testing and/or control of fluid regulatory systems. In one aspect, a fluid regulatory testing system may include a field test initiator and a fluid regulator control system. The field test initiator may alter control signal delivered to the fluid regulator control system upon activation of a user input device. The fluid regulator control system may receive control signals from the field test initiator and generate fluid regulator control signals. The fluid regulator control system may also detect whether a control signal has been altered, and initiate a fluid regulator testing sequence, if the control signal has been altered. The fluid regulator control system may include a latch mode. When a latch mode is commenced, generation of fluid regulator control signals based on received control signals and/or alteration of a position of a fluid regulator may be inhibited. |
| US08573239B2 |
Collapsible, portable structure
A collapsible portable structure which may provide a play environment for children has side walling defining an upright corner region with a free side edge and a canopy which straddles the corner region. The canopy may provide a roof-like cover or at least a partial enclosure. The side walling is formed by at least one continuous loop of a flexible coilable rod supporting a flexible fabric panel. Thus there may be one curved or angular panel, or two adjoining panels or panel sections. The canopy is of flexile fabric and is attached to the fabric of the side walling at a location spaced inwardly from the free edge of the side walling. The canopy is supported separately from the side walling panels by at least one separate pole. A ground sheet may optionally be provided extending across the corner region between the lower edges of the side walling. |
| US08573237B2 |
Apparatus and method for cleaning heat exchangers
A tool for cleaning heat exchangers may include a fluid flow control valve, a hollow elongated stem attached to the valve and a hollow fan head attached to the hollow stem. The fan head may have a fan-head axis oriented at an oblique angle relative to a stem axis of the stem. |
| US08573234B2 |
Process and system for removing printing in metallic packages
Process and system for removing printing in metallic packages used in drinks, food and other applications in general, comprising the removal of ink before the cure thereof, by means of spray with ink remover liquid and non abrasive friction. Preferably, said liquid is an alkaline aqueous solution, which is sprayed onto the package surface simultaneously with the friction thereof with a soft and non abrasive element. In a preferred embodiment, said friction results in the rotation of the package around the longitudinal axis thereof, which is mounted on a rotative support, and the soft non abrasive element in contact with the surface thereof keeps motionless. |
| US08573233B2 |
Cosmetic container with transparent window
A cosmetic container with a transparent window has a main base, a cover with the transparent window and mounted on the main base, a lateral movement base mounted between the main base and the cover, a longitudinal movement base mounted on the main base and a transmission element connecting to the lateral and longitudinal movement bases. The transparent window allows a user to recognize kinds and colors of cosmetics that are mounted on the lateral movement base therethrough. When the transmission element is driven by the longitudinal movement base, the transmission element drives the lateral movement base consequently to push the lateral and longitudinal movement bases outwardly. Thus, it is easy to open or close the cosmetic container with only one hand. |
| US08573227B2 |
Treatment of cellulite and adipose tissue with mid-infrared radiation
A method and apparatus that will alter the fibrous strands in the fatty layers of the skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue. Electromagnetic energy is used to selectively shrink or alternatively photoacoustically ablate the collagen in the constricting bands of connective tissue that causes the dimpled appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue while avoiding damage to the surrounding fatty cells. |
| US08573225B2 |
Methods and devices for retaining surgical instruments and cables within sterile fields
The subject devices and methods retain surgical instruments and sterile portions of any accompanying cables within sterile surgical fields. One such surgical device includes a surgical instrument for performing surgical procedures within a sterile field. A cable is attached to the surgical instrument for connecting the surgical instrument located within the sterile field to support equipment located outside the sterile field. A self-retracting coil is operatively connected to the surgical instrument. The self-retracting coil is adapted and configured to be anchored within the sterile field to ensure that the surgical instrument and the sterile portion of the cable remain within the sterile field during performance of the surgical procedure. |
| US08573224B2 |
Custom-molded oral appliance and method of forming
A method for forming a custom-molded oral appliance for positioning a user's jaw proximate to centric occlusion is disclosed. The method includes heating a thin sheet of material comprising a polycaprolactone polymer. The thin sheet of material is positioned within the user's mouth. The user's jaw is positioned proximate to centric occlusion. The thin sheet of material is molded around at least respective portions of the user's upper and lower dental arches such that each of the respective portions of the user's upper and lower dental arches form respective impressions on opposite sides of the thin sheet of material. The thin sheet of material is transitioned to a substantially non-deformable state. |
| US08573222B2 |
Intrauterine device and inserter for the same
An inserter for placing a T-shaped intrauterine device inside a patient's uterus and a T-shaped intrauterine device are disclosed. The inserter includes a sleeve part and a plunger part, the sleeve part includes a tube and a first engaging member and the plunger part includes a rod, a handle attached to the rod and a second engaging member. The first and the second engaging members are configured for reversibly engaging the sleeve part and the plunger part to temporarily lock the relative position between the tube and the rod. The T-shaped intrauterine device includes a pair of wings having a relaxed extended configuration and a contracted folded configuration and an elongated contraceptive body suspended from a junction between the wings. |
| US08573216B2 |
Vertical drop out box method and apparatus
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for storing breathing masks in a tall and narrow space and deploying the masks from that space. The apparatus may be embodied as a removable cartridge containing a breathing mask assembly housed within a frame. The cartridge is comprised of a first side and second side which can move relative to the frame. The first side includes a hinge. In operation, the cartridge slides relative to the frame and rotatably opens via the hinge after the cartridge substantially exits the frame. A breathing mask is released to a user after the first and second halves rotatably separate. |
| US08573214B2 |
Cushion for patient interface
A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal. |
| US08573205B2 |
Ventilation method and control of a ventilator based on same
The invention provides an improved ventilation method and method for controlling a ventilator apparatus in accordance with same. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method of controlling a ventilator apparatus comprising the steps of placing a ventilator in a mode capable of adjusting airway pressure (P) and time (T), monitoring expiratory gas flow, analyzing the expiratory gas flow over time (T) to establish an expiratory gas flow pattern, and setting and/or adjusting a low time (T2) based on the expiratory gas flow pattern. Alternatively, the present invention relates to a method of controlling a ventilator apparatus comprising the steps of placing a ventilator in a mode capable of adjusting airway pressure (P) and time (T), and setting a low airway pressure (P2) of substantially zero cmH2O. |
| US08573204B2 |
Metering device for the inhalation of a pulverulent substance
A dosing device can be activated by a vacuum air stream of a user for the inhalation of a powder substance, particularly medicine, which is arranged in a supply chamber and which can be brought out of the same into an open emptying-ready position by a dosing chamber of a dosing rod when the mouthpiece-closure cap is removed. In particular, in order to improve dispensing, the provision of two air paths, of which one serves to open and empty the dosing chamber, and/or the second air path penetrates directly into a ring chamber in order to mix with the air flow containing the substance. |
| US08573203B2 |
Nebulizer having flow meter function
In accordance with non-limiting examples, a nebulizer includes a main body comprising an air channel section and further comprising a mixing chamber and a venturi positioned to be placed within the patient's oral cavity and configured to receive medicine and air and mix the medicine and air within the mixing chamber and receive the air flow through the venturi and cause the medicine entering the mixing chamber to be atomized by the action of air flowing through the venturi. An air flow sensor is associated with the main body and configured to measure the air flow created by the patient's one of at least inhaling and exhaling air. |
| US08573200B2 |
Magnetic coupling assembly and method of using same
A magnetic coupling assembly for use in coupling portions of a gas deliver system. The magnetic coupling assembly includes a first member and a second member to be coupled together. The attractive forces between the first plurality of magnetic elements on the first member and a second plurality of magnetic elements on the second member join these member. The poles of magnetic elements in the first and second plurality of magnetic elements is opposite that of an adjacent magnetic element. The first and second members are easily detached from one another simply by rotating the first member relative to the second member such that the magnetic poles of the magnetic elements in each plurality of magnetic elements become unaligned, causing an weakening of the attractive forces. |
| US08573199B2 |
Ultrasonic in situ respiratory mask testing process and mask
A respiratory mask includes a mask body with a perimeter. The mask has a use position wherein the mask body covers at least the mouth and nose and the perimeter is in contact with the face surrounding at least the mouth and nose. At least one ultrasonic sensor is supported on the mask body in detecting proximity to the perimeter. The ultrasonic sensor is operable to detect ultrasound. The ultrasonic sensor allows leakage around the perimeter of the mask body to be detected. |
| US08573197B2 |
Powder dispersion apparatus, method of making and using the apparatus, and components that can be used on the apparatus and other devices
Methods and apparatuses for the pulmonary delivery of a composition, such as methods and apparatuses for dispersing dry powder medicaments for inhalation by a patient. Elements or aspects of the apparatuses, including receptacle puncturing mechanisms, deoccluding devices, receptacle impacting devices, and receptacle lock devices or systems. |
| US08573193B2 |
Bow stabilizing systems and methods
A bow stabilizing and shock dampening assembly that, in various embodiments, comprises: (1) one or more dampener supports; (2) a support structure for supporting the one or more dampener supports; and (3) an attachment mechanism that is adapted for selectively attaching the bow stabilizing and shock dampening assembly to a bow. In particular embodiments, the support structure extends between the dampener support and the attachment mechanism, and each dampener support is adapted to maintain a respective dampener in a plane that is at least substantially parallel to a central axis of the bow stabilizing and shock dampening assembly. |
| US08573192B2 |
Portable cocking device
A portable device for drawing the bowstring of a crossbow. The cocking device may be designed to prevent the uneven drawing of the crossbow and may eliminate the complex installation process typically required to retro-fit an existing crossbow with known cocking devices. |
| US08573189B2 |
Method for operating an internal combustion engine, computer program product, computer program, and control and/or regulation device for an internal combustion engine
In a method for operating an internal combustion engine, a computer program product, a computer program, and a control and/or regulation device for the internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine is allowed to be operated using an enriched air/fuel mixture, without exceeding a rich combustion limit of the internal combustion engine. In the process, a setpoint value for a variable characterizing the air/fuel mixture is specified in at least one operating state of the internal combustion engine. A value of at least one variable characterizing the quality of combustion is determined. The determined value for the at least one variable characterizing the quality of combustion is compared to a first specified threshold value. If the determined value for the at least one variable characterizing the quality of combustion deviates from the first specified threshold value by an amount that exceeds a second specified threshold value, then the setpoint value is corrected. |
| US08573184B2 |
Control apparatus for controlling intake air flow, fuel injection amount, and ignition timing at each cylinder of a multi-cylinder engine
An engine control apparatus having a unit for calculating the mean value of the angular acceleration with respect to each cylinder; a unit for calculating the variance of the angular acceleration with respect to each cylinder; a unit for estimating the torque and the air/fuel ratio with respect to each cylinder on the basis of the mean value and the variance; and a unit for controlling at least one of the intake air amount, the fuel injection amount and the ignition timing with respect to each cylinder on the basis of the estimated torque and air/fuel ratio. |
| US08573183B2 |
System and method for fuel tank tube routing and valve placement to prevent fuel leaks into evaporative emissions system
Systems and methods for fuel tank tube routing and valve placement to prevent fuel leaks into the evaporative emissions system are disclosed. An embodiment provides a vehicle fuel tank venting system that uses strategically placed valves and a low profile tube routing to prevent the leakage of liquid fuel to an evaporative emission system in the event of a valve failure. In one aspect, a first and second outlet valve may be positioned such that at least one of the valves is above a full fuel level for a desired range of fuel tank tilted positions. Among the desired range, when the first valve is submerged in fuel, at least a portion of the first outlet tube may be above the full fuel level, and when the second valve is submerged, at least a portion of the second outlet tube may be above the full fuel level. |
| US08573181B2 |
Throttle control systems and methods for internal combustion engines to reduce throttle oscillations
A throttle control system includes a pressure comparison module and a throttle plate control module. The pressure comparison module determines an inlet pressure upstream from a throttle body and an outlet pressure downstream from the throttle body. The throttle plate control module controls a position of a throttle plate based on the inlet pressure and the outlet pressure. |
| US08573180B2 |
Method and device for correlating cylinder charge and maximum intake valve lift of internal combustion engine
A method for determining a cylinder charge of an internal-combustion engine having valves with a variable valve gear, may include determining a maximum intake valve lift, calculating a standardized cylinder charge relative to at least one of a defined intake spread of an intake valve opening phase and a defined exhaust spread of an exhaust valve opening phase, as a function of the maximum intake valve lift, determining an overlap value, which characterizes an actual overlap of the intake valve opening phase and the exhaust valve opening phase, and determining a corrected cylinder charge based on the standardized cylinder charge and the overlap value. |
| US08573178B2 |
Sleeve valve assembly
A sleeve valve assembly. The assembly includes a valve seat, a sleeve valve and an oil path-defining piece. The sleeve valve includes a distal end with a cavity. The distal end contacts the valve seat when the sleeve valve is located in a closed position. The oil path-defining piece includes an inlet port, an outlet port and a plurality of cooling passages. The flange of the sleeve valve is slidably in contact with the oil path-defining piece such that cooling fluid travelling into the inlet port and through the cooling passages enters into the cavity before exiting out the exit port. |
| US08573171B2 |
Lost motion valve control apparatus
A valve control device for an internal combustion engine with an engine valve and a camshaft having a cam profile including a first lift profile is disclosed. The device includes a first body and second body. The device is configurable in first and second configurations. When in the first configuration, relative movement between the first and second body, caused when said first lift profile engages a cam engagement surface, inhibits a valve actuating linkage from actuating said engine valve. Embodiments of the device include a means which, when in the second configuration, prevents relative movement between the first and second bodies when the first lift profile engages the cam engagement surface to enable the valve actuating linkage to actuate said engine valve, and when the device is in the second configuration, the means may be arranged so substantially all of the force exerted as the valve is actuated is compressive. |
| US08573168B2 |
Hydraulic pressure valve apparatus
A hydraulic pressure valve apparatus includes a housing of which a first chamber and a second chamber are formed therein, wherein a diameter of the second chamber is bigger than that of the first chamber, a first piston disposed within the first chamber, an elastic portion disposed within the first chamber for elastically supporting the first piston and a second piston disposed within the second chamber and connected to a valve. |
| US08573165B2 |
Actuating device of a recirculation pump for a cooling circuit of an internal combustion engine
Actuating device for a recirculation pump of a cooling circuit of an internal combustion engine comprising a pulley suitable for being rotationally driven by the engine, a driven shaft for driving the pump and an electromagnetically controlled coupling interposed between the pulley and the driven shaft, in which the electromagnetic coupling comprises an electromagnet, coupling mechanism controlled by the electromagnet and mobile between an engagement position in which the pulley is connected to the driven shaft and a disengagement position, and an elastic member for maintaining an engagement member in the engaged position when the electromagnet is not energized. |
| US08573163B2 |
Cooling device for vehicle
When the temperature of coolant in an engine is greater than or equal to a half-warm-up determination value, an engine cooling control section opens a valve to mix the coolant in two coolant circuits. Accordingly, even if the temperature of the coolant in the engine fluctuates due to mixing coolants at different temperatures, such fluctuation occurs in a temperature range lower than the determination value for the warm-up completion of the engine. This prevents a control procedure for the time before the warm-up completion and a control procedure for the time after such completion from being performed in a repeating, alternating manner. As a result, when the coolant circulating in the first coolant circuit and the coolant circulating in the second coolant circuit are mixed together, control that should be performed based on the coolant temperature in the engine is carried out without hindrance. |
| US08573160B1 |
Sanitary pet walking system
A sanitary pet walking system for providing a lit walking path while safely restraining the pet and further providing a sanitary system for managing pet feces features a hollow base having a light located on a base first end terminating end. The system features a handle with a power switch on a base top and a retractable leash located on a base bottom. A disposable glove designed to pick up pet feces is constructed from a water resistant material. The glove features a first plastic zipper component located on a glove face close to a glove terminating end and a mating second plastic zipper component located opposed to the first plastic zipper component on a glove back close to the glove terminating end. |
| US08573158B2 |
Crate for transporting animals
A crate for transporting a plurality of animals particularly horses is formed by a rectangular container to be placed on a supporting base and defined by two side panels and two end panels connected edge to edge. Each panel is defined by a frame comprising upstanding end posts and top and bottom cross rails and a sheet attached to the frame to at least partly close the frame and thus confine the animals within the container. The sheet of at least the side panels is bent to form a horizontally extending outwardly bulged section at least partly along the panel at a height on the panel spaced from a bottom edge and from a top edge and arranged at a height on the panel of the order of 4 feet from the base to receive the body of the animals when standing on the base to provide additional room for the animals without increasing the footprint of the crate. |
| US08573157B2 |
Indexed feed dispensing mechanism
An improved livestock feeder provided with an adjustable feed dispensing mechanism including control levers which are operatively connected to the feed metering gates to control the flow of feed to livestock. The dispensing mechanism features a control lever which engage an array of indexing holes formed in the feeder to position the feed gate within the opening to adjust the amount of feed dispensed from the hopper. The dispensing mechanism includes a graduated scale corresponding to each of the index holes to provide a standard setting for the feeder which can be utilized by an animal producer to supply of feed flow at a given stage in the animal's life cycle to obtain a desired growth rate. |
| US08573156B2 |
Dual hopper animal feeder device
An animal feeding device for feeding animals, including wildlife, is disclosed. The animal feeding device includes a first storage compartment and a second storage compartment inside the first storage compartment. Both storage compartments have openings on the upper ends thereof. The first and second storage compartments have feed assemblies engaged to the lower end thereof, to provide a first feed from a first storage compartment to a first feed assembly, and a second feed from a second storage compartment to a second feed assembly. In this manner, two different types of feed may be poured into one device, but kept separate, a first feed, for example, in a first storage compartment, and a second feed in a second storage compartment. Moreover, a first and second feeding assembly can be engaged with the first or second storage means and below the first and second storage means to gravity feed the first feed to the first feed assembly and the second feed to the second feed assembly. By having two different feeds kept separate, two different types of animals can be fed. |
| US08573152B2 |
Showerhead electrode
A showerhead electrode, a gasket set and an assembly thereof in plasma reaction chamber for etching semiconductor substrates are provided with improved a gas injection hole pattern, positioning accuracy and reduced warping, which leads to enhanced uniformity of plasma processing rate. A method of assembling the inner electrode and gasket set to a supporting member includes simultaneous engagement of cam locks. |
| US08573148B2 |
System for coating a stent
A systems and method for reducing coating defects on a stent may involve a support apparatus comprising wire cage for carrying a stent. The support apparatus may have no structure that extends inside the stent. A support apparatus may include a plurality of wires that pass through the stent but do not pass through the midplane of the stent. A support apparatus may contact only the proximal ends of the stent. The method may involve keeping the stent in motion during a spray coating process to prevent the stent from having a point remain in continuous contact with a support apparatus. |
| US08573144B2 |
Agricultural exhaust conditioning system
An exhaust conditioning system for use with a tractor towing an air seeding implement comprises an exhaust duct arranged to communicate exhaust emissions from the engine of the tractor to the seed fan of the air seeding implement. A condenser receives the exhaust emissions of the exhaust duct therethrough between the engine and the seed fan. A condenser fan cools a surface of the condenser. A computer controller controllably varies a rate of at least one of the condenser fan, the seed fan or revolutions per minute of the engine responsive to a sensed temperature of the exhaust emissions to maintain the temperature of the exhaust emissions within a selected temperature range and such that the exhaust emissions are arranged to influence germination of the seeds either by humidity, oxidised organic matter or bio-char. |
| US08573139B2 |
Table
A table may include a table top and a leg assembly. The leg assembly may be moved between use and storage positions, and the movement of the leg assembly may move a cross member between a first position in which the cross member resists folding of the table top and a second position in which the cross member facilitates folding and unfolding of the table top. The table top may include first and second sections with portions that overlap and/or interlock when the table top is unfolded. When the table top is in the unfolded position, movement of the leg assembly towards the use position may move the cross member towards the overlapping and/or interlocking portions, which may move the overlapping and/or interlocking portions towards each other. When moved towards each other, the overlapping and/or interlocking portions may be securely connected. |
| US08573135B2 |
Load support device made of cardboard material that can withstand pressure forces exerted thereon
Load support device of cardboard material. The load support device includes at least one block element having a polygonal shape, at least two vertical walls, a horizontal base, an upper load receiving surface, and at least one locking fold arranged in at least one corner of the block element. The locking fold is formed by at least two lateral vertical contact sections of the block element such that the block element, in an area of the locking fold, provides load support and the locking fold functions as reinforcement. A reinforcing locking wedge element made of a same material as said at least one block element is utilized and includes a base and four portions. At least one of the four portions is structured and arranged to strengthen and lock a position of the at least one locking fold. |
| US08573133B2 |
Passenger transport installation comprising independent vehicles travelling on tracks and hauled by cables, and method for transporting passengers
A public passenger transport installation includes two end stations connected via two tracks for inbound and outbound travels. At each station, both tracks join into a common single connector track section via a switch. Each of the tracks is associated with at least two endless cables, which extend from one of the station to the other one, and more precisely from one of the connector track section to the other. The endless cables associated with one track run in parallel to one another, and are laterally offset with respect to one another by a given distance, which is constant along the track and at the stations. Vehicles provided with releasable clamps can be individually coupled to the cables. Each clamp is movable between at least four indexed lateral positions, each corresponding to one of the cables on the connector track section. Each cable can be individually driven at continuously variable speed between standstill and a cruising speed. |
| US08573128B2 |
Multi component reactive metal penetrators, and their method of manufacture
A penetrator comprising a layered composite of at least one high density metal and at least one reactive metal material such as a reactive metal. |
| US08573124B2 |
Electronic safe/arm system and methods of use thereof
An ordnance firing system is disclosed that includes a reusable electronics module and an ordnance module, each enclosed in a separate, sealed housing. The electronics module housing encloses firing electronics for electrically triggering initiation of a detonator in the ordnance module. The electronics module detachably connects to the ordnance modules via a connector which extends away from the electronics module housing. The housing of the ordnance module is constructed to be blast-resistant to prevent detonation of the detonator from rendering the electronics module inoperable. |
| US08573122B1 |
Full function initiator with integrated planar switch
A switch device having a base, a first electrically conductive pad coupled to the base, a second electrically conductive pad coupled to the base, a first electrically conductive projection and a second electrically conductive projection. The second electrically conductive pad is spaced apart from the first electrically conductive pad by a first predetermined distance. The first electrically conductive projection is coupled to the first electrically conductive pad and extends into the first gap. The second electrically conductive projection is coupled to the second electrically conductive pad and extends into the first gap. The second electrically conductive projection is spaced apart from the first electrically conductive projection by a second predetermined distance. The first and second electrically conductive projections form an electrical interface. |
| US08573121B2 |
Methods, apparatus, and systems for erasing ink history from ink transfer roll in digital offset systems
A digital offset inking system includes an ink chamber that contains ink, and deposits ink onto an inking member. The ink is transferred to an ink transfer member, which is then transferred to an image transfer member. An ink removal member removes leftover or excess ink from the ink removal member. A cleaning member cleans the ink removal member. |
| US08573117B2 |
Charbroiler and method of charbroiling
A charbroiler having both heated grids and at least one radiant heater and a method of charbroiling a food product are disclosed. Each heat source of the charbroiler may be an independently regulated heat source. The independently regulated heat sources may be adjusted to each contribute to the overall cooking of a food product in a cooking cycle. Each of the independently regulated heat sources may be any heat source capable of being regulated either manually or automatically by a cooking control system. |
| US08573116B2 |
Heating device with an integrated thermoblock for a beverage preparation machine
An in-line heating device for a liquid food or beverage preparation machine in which liquid is circulated through the heating device and then guided into a brewing chamber. This heating device includes a thermoblock with a metal mass that incorporates an inlet, an outlet and a heating chamber extending therebetween to form a passage for guiding the liquid circulating through the mass, with the mass arranged to accumulate heat and to supply heat to the liquid; and one or more electric components that are rigidly secured onto or into the thermoblock and that are connected to a printed circuit board or a flex-print arranged to control the thermoblock. The electric components are rigidly connected to the printed circuit board or flex-print, in particular via rigid connector pins or blades or rigid plug and socket members. |
| US08573115B2 |
Brewed beverage appliance and method
A beverage assembly includes a housing having a liquid reservoir, an inlet portion formed in the housing, a beverage container configured to be removably accommodated within the inlet portion and having a fracturable seal and containing a beverage ingredient of a first size, a grinding mechanism positioned within the housing and in fluid communication with the inlet portion, and a piercing assembly positioned within the housing, wherein the piercing assembly selectively pierces the fracturable seal thereby causing said beverage ingredient to enter the grinding mechanism. The grinding mechanism selectively transforms the beverage ingredient from the first size to a second size, the second size being smaller than the first size. The beverage assembly further includes a brewing area disposed beneath the grinding assembly and configured to removably accommodate the beverage container after the beverage container has been pierced by the piercing assembly. |
| US08573111B2 |
Active implement down force system with automatic latching of tractor power beyond pressure
A load sense connection is provided between the implement rockshaft cylinders and the load-sensed power source. However, to avoid tractor starting difficulty, a valve structure is provided in the power beyond fluid line to keep the fluid line closed when starting the tractor. This valve structure provides a hydraulic latching function that allows the load-sensed power source to be activated and deactivated depending on the SCV function. The load-sensed power source is activated when the rockshaft cylinder(s) is fully extended and remains activated or latched when the SCV is returned to neutral. The load-sensed power source is deactivated or unlatched when the rockshaft cylinder is retracted. |
| US08573110B2 |
RPG launcher deterrent
A counter offensive weapon system is provided for use on a vehicle to fire upon and neutralize those launching projectiles, including RPG's, at the vehicle. A muzzle flash detected by an on-board monitoring device allows the distance and direction to the projectile launch site to be calculated so that an offensive weapon may be immediately deployed to the projectile launch site to neutralize the enemy weapon and shooter. An air burst munition is programmed to detonate just prior to reaching the measured distance to create a conical dispersion of fragments that are effective at destroying weapons such as RPG tubes. A related method for protecting a vehicle and launching counter offensive weapons is also provided. |
| US08573109B2 |
Ammunition canister and feed system
An armament system for aircraft includes an ammunition system and a mount system for a machine gun. The ammunition system includes an ammunition canister and feed system, the canister having a pair of brackets releasably coupled to a pair of receivers supported by a vertical mounting surface. |
| US08573104B2 |
Miter detent override mechanism
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a miter saw comprising a base with a plurality of detents, a rotatable table mounted to the base, the table having a front handle portion configured to enable a user to angularly adjust the position of the table relative to the base, a detent system mounted to the table and comprising a moveable lever with a gripping portion and a detent pin on the opposite end thereof selectively engaging the detents, and a detent override mechanism for retaining the lever and detent pin out of engagement with the detents, the override mechanism comprising a moveable button positioned on the top of the handle portion, whereby a user can grasp the handle portion and gripping portion with one hand and move the button with the thumb to retain the lever and associated detent pin out of engagement with any of the detents. |
| US08573100B2 |
Loading magazine with moveable channel system for loading and unloading automatic lathes
The present invention relates to a loading magazine for guiding bar material on an automatic lathe with at least one spindle head that is displaceable in the longitudinal direction. According to the invention, the channel system of a loading magazine of this type is guided on a linear axis and coupled to at least one spindle head, which can be moved in a longitudinal manner, of the automatic lathe such that the bar-guiding channel system can be moved synchronously with the spindle head in drag operation. The formation zones for vibrations in the transition region between the loading magazine and automatic lathe are thus reduced. |
| US08573094B2 |
Oil filter wrench
An oil filter wrench includes a flexible stainless steel band having a pattern of sputtered alloy material coating at least part of the inside surface of the band to enhance the gripping ability of the oil filter wrench as the band is tightened above the outside surface of a cylindrical canister during removal or installation of the oil filter canister. |
| US08573092B2 |
Rotating actuator with a variable latching profile
Disclosed is a rotating actuator with a variable latching profile, the rotating actuator having a housing, a rotary knob and a rotary shaft connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the rotary knob, and also at least two latching contours connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the rotary shaft, one support per latching contour, on which support at least one latching element is arranged, the latching element engaging in the latching contour assigned to the support, and which support is mounted rotatably about the rotary shaft, and at least one locking device per support, by means of which the support can be locked relative to the housing. |
| US08573090B2 |
Remote-controlled actuator
A remote controlled actuator includes a spindle for holding a tool, a spindle guide section of an elongated configuration, a distal end member rotatably supporting the spindle, and a drive unit housing connected to a base end of the spindle guide section. The distal end member is fitted to the spindle guide section for alteration in attitude. The spindle guide section includes an outer shell pipe, a rotary shaft, and guide pipe. Within the guide pipe, an attitude altering member is inserted to alter the attitude of the distal end member. A connection device detachably connects the spindle guide section with the drive unit housing. |
| US08573089B2 |
Speed change operation apparatus for stepless speed changer device
A speed change operation apparatus includes a pivotal body operatively connected to a trunnion shaft to be pivotally displaced in response to an operational displacement by an operational tool, a positioning body operatively coupled with the pivotal body so as to be pivotally displaced in response to a pivotal displacement of the pivotal body, a main urging mechanism for applying an urging force to the pivotal body via the positioning body for returning the pivotal body from an operational position to the neutral position, and an auxiliary urging mechanism for applying an auxiliary urging force to the pivotal body for returning the pivotal body from the operational position to the neutral position. |
| US08573087B2 |
Hypoid gears with low shaft angles
A gear pair set comprising low shaft angle and offset bevel gears and a method for their manufacture including determination of the appropriate gear and pinion blanks and the basic machine settings for their manufacture. The pair of bevel gears comprises a first member and a second member wherein the members of the pair have a shaft angle in the range of greater than 0° to 30°, preferably greater than 0° to 20°, and have an offset in the range of greater than zero to the sum of half the mean pitch diameters of the two members of the bevel gear pair. |
| US08573081B2 |
Shaft part formed with a rolling groove
A shaft part is formed with a rolling groove (5) on which rolling elements (4) roll. At least the rolling groove (5) is induction hardened with no generation of black colored oxidized scale after the induction hardening. A surface of the induction hardened rolling groove (5) is used “as is” as a rolling surface. The surface roughness Ra of the induction hardened surface “as is” of the rolling groove (5) is less than 1.0. The ratio of effective hardened depth of a hardened layer is between 0.15 and 0.45. |
| US08573078B2 |
System and method for positioning a sensor
A system for positioning a sensor through an inner barrier and an outer barrier includes a first collar configured for engagement with the inner or outer barriers, a collapsible coupling, and a sensor support connected to the collapsible coupling. The collapsible coupling or the sensor support is in sealing engagement with the first collar, and the first collar, collapsible coupling, and sensor support define a passage therethrough. A method for positioning a sensor includes engaging a first collar to at least one of the inner barrier or the outer barrier and inserting a sensor support connected to a collapsible coupling through the outer barrier. The method further includes connecting the sensor support or the collapsible coupling to the first collar and inserting the sensor through the sensor support. |
| US08573072B2 |
Method for removing a fluid substance from a sealed collection device
A method for removing a fluid substance from a sealed collection device comprising a cap and a fluid-holding vessel, where the method aids in venting air from the collection device when the cap is penetrated by a fluid transfer device used to withdraw a fluid substance from the vessel. Venting is aided by incorporating a pause step between penetrating the cap and contacting the fluid substance held by the vessel with the fluid transfer device or by contacting the cap at a slower speed than the fluid transfer device enters the collection device after the cap has been penetrated. |
| US08573070B2 |
Force and normality sensing for end effector clamp
A robotic system comprises an end effector including an electromagnetic clamp, a force sensor attached to the end effector for measuring force exerted by the clamp against a work piece surface, and a plurality of normality sensors. The normality sensors are positioned about the force sensor to determine whether the clamp is normal to the surface before the force sensor makes contact with the surface. |
| US08573068B2 |
Method and apparatus for coupling a case to a vibrating flow meter
A vibrating flow meter (205) is provided. The vibrating flow meter (205) comprises a flow conduit (210) including a first end portion (211) and a second end portion (212). The vibrating flow meter (205) further includes a case (300) surrounding at least a portion of the flow conduit (210). The vibrating flow meter (205) also includes a first case connect (290). The first case connect (290) comprises a first portion (295) coupled to the first end portion (211) of the flow conduit (210) and one or more deformable members (292, 293, 294) extending radially from the first portion (295) and coupled to the case (300) such that the first end portion (211) can rotate about a conduit axis (X). |
| US08573067B2 |
Flow meter including a balance member
A flow meter (200) is provided that comprises a curved flow tube (203) and a balance member (250). The balance member (250) is positioned such that a centerline (341) of the balance member (250) lies on a plane of a centerline (340) of the curved flow tube (203). The flow meter (200) also includes a driver (104) including a first driver component (104a) and a second driver component (104b). The first driver component (104a) is coupled to the curved flow tube (203) while the second driver component (104b) is coupled to the balance member (250) proximate the first driver component (104a). The flow meter (200) also includes at least a first pick-off sensor (105). The first pick-off sensor (105) includes a first pick-off component (105a) and a second pick-off component (105b). The first pick-off component (105a) is coupled to the curved flow tube (203) while the second pick-off component (105b) is coupled to the balance member (250) proximate the first pick-off component (105a). |
| US08573066B2 |
Fluidic oscillator flowmeter for use with a subterranean well
A fluidic oscillator can include a fluid switch, at least two fluid paths from the fluid switch, and a sensor which measures a frequency of fluctuations in flow through the fluidic oscillator. A method of measuring a flow rate of a fluid can include flowing the fluid through a fluidic oscillator, a majority of the fluid flowing alternately via at least two fluid paths from a fluid switch of the fluidic oscillator, and a sensor detecting a frequency of the flow alternating between the fluid paths. Another fluidic oscillator can include a fluid input, at least two fluid paths from the fluid input to respective fluid outputs, whereby a majority of fluid which flows through the fluidic oscillator flows alternately via the fluid paths, and a sensor which detects pressure fluctuations due to the flow alternating between the fluid paths. |
| US08573063B2 |
Height adjustment structure of printed circuit board and height adjustment method thereof
A height adjustment structure of printed circuit board and the adjustment method thereof are disclosed. The height adjustment structure includes an electronic device main body, a circuit board body and an adjusting component. The electronic device main body includes at least one fixing part. The circuit board body is disposed on a surface of the electronic device main body at which the fixing part is located. The circuit board body includes at least one stuck part, wherein the stuck part is disposed along the edge of the circuit board body and corresponds to the fixing part; further, the stuck part recesses inwards into the circuit board body to form a U shape. One end of the adjusting component movably penetrates the fixing part and being screw locked thereon, and another end of the adjusting component is embedded to the stuck part. |
| US08573059B2 |
Acceleration sensor having an electrode bridge
A capacitive micromechanical acceleration sensor has a substrate and a micromechanical functional layer situated above the substrate. A seismic mass, a suspension and fixed electrodes are situated in the micromechanical functional layer. The fixed electrodes are electrically connected to one another on a first and second side, respectively, of the suspension using buried conductor tracks. The fixed electrodes are connected to one another between the first and second side of the suspension using first and second conductors in the micromechanical functional layer. |
| US08573058B2 |
Acceleration sensor and electronic device
An acceleration sensor includes: a support member; a fixed electrode provided on the support member; a movable unit; a movable electrode provided on the movable unit and disposed opposed to the fixed electrode to generate capacity; and a projection extending from the opposed surface of at least either the fixed electrode or the movable electrode in one direction within the surface. |
| US08573057B2 |
Sensor mount vibration reduction
Techniques are provided for reducing mount vibration in an inertial rate sensor (IRS). For example, if oscillation in an IRS's vibratory members, vibrating along a first axis, cause displacement in the IRS's mount along a second axis, the vibratory members can be aligned so that the vibratory members have some component of movement along the second axis during oscillation. This component of movement can help reduce the displacement of the IRS's mount along the second axis. It can further reduce sensitivity to changes in the boundary conditions of an IRS (e.g., vibrations and other movements at the mount from forces external to the IRS). Vibratory members further can have portions of increased mass at the vibratory members' tips, which can impact the alignment of the vibratory members. These examples, however, are not exhaustive. |
| US08573049B1 |
Rain gauge and irrigation system
A rain gauge includes an orifice which is of a diameter generating water drops of uniform mass. A sensor below the orifice senses individual water drops. An adapter for an irrigation controller having a master valve output and a rain switch input and a system therefor includes a rain gauge input, a weather station input receiving Evapotranspiration data (ET) and an input from the master valve output receiving irrigation program cycles. A routine for updating the current water balance value by reducing the sum of the rainfall and the irrigation cycles by the value of ET is used with an output to the rain switch input responsive to the determination of the current water balance value. A maximum water balance value and a minimum water balance value are maintained to compare with the current water balance value to control the irrigation program. |
| US08573048B2 |
Method and apparatus for analying fracture fluids in a drilling operation
An apparatus for testing a drilling fluid includes a vessel having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a pair of opposed impermeable platens disposed within the vessel. The apparatus further includes a test fluid container in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, and a collection container in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. Additionally, the system includes a data acquisition device configured to receive data from at least one of the vessel, the test fluid container, and the collection container. Also, a method for determining sealing characteristics of a drilling fluid includes injecting a test fluid having a fluid loss control material from a test fluid container to a vessel, the vessel having a first impermeable platen and a second impermeable platen with a gap between the two platens. The methods further includes measuring a fracture tip fluid loss through the gap. |
| US08573045B2 |
Indirect tire pressure monitoring systems and methods
Embodiments relate to indirect tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMSs) and methods that utilize anti-lock braking system (ABS) signals. In embodiments, information from the ABS Hall signal is obtained before pulse forming. The information can be analyzed for resonance within the ABS sensor. In some embodiments, the digitized information can be modulated onto the conventional ABS wheel speed clock signal for transmission to and analysis by the indirect TPMS electronic control unit (ECU). According to embodiments, additional information about higher-order harmonics of the wheel rotation can be provided to the TPMS ECU, which can then calculate a more accurate estimation of tire pressure while reducing warning latency. |
| US08573041B2 |
Mass air flow measurement device
An arrangement of a mass intake air flow measurement device suitable for integrating a humidity sensing device as well as a temperature sensing device and a pressure sensing device is provided. A second bypass passage 501 bypassing a bypass passage 205 is formed and a humidity sensing device 500 is mounted in the second bypass passage 501. A second bypass passage inlet 502 and a second bypass passage outlet 503 formed in a wall surface of the bypass passage 205 are opened parallel to the direction of flow of air flowing in the bypass passage 205. |
| US08573040B2 |
Method for determining air filter condition
A sensor that is designed for determining ambient pressure for purposes of derating an internal combustion engine at high altitudes, is used to determine the condition of the air filter by taking pressure measurements in the intake manifold before and after the engine is started, with the difference then being an indication of the condition of the air filter. |
| US08573037B2 |
Method for determining emission values of a gas turbine, and apparatus for carrying out said method
A method of determining emission values of a gas turbine, includes the following steps: a test run is performed on the gas turbine; operational parameters of the gas turbine are determined during the test run; first emission values are determined during the test run; an association between the operational parameters and the first emission values is stored; and during operation, operational parameters of the gas turbine are determined; and second emission values are determined in accordance with the stored association between the operational parameters and the first emission values. |
| US08573036B2 |
Surface texture measuring instrument
A surface texture measuring instrument includes a force sensor (1), an actuator (11) and a detector (12). The surface texture measuring instrument further includes: a scanning controller (54) that collects a detection signal from the force sensor (1) and drives the actuator such that the detecting signal coincides with a target measurement value; a touch signal generator (51) that generates a touch signal when the detection signal from the force sensor (1) coincides with the target measurement value; and a measurement value collecting unit (55) that collects a measurement value from a counter (26) at a predetermined time interval in a state where a fluctuation range of the detection signal from the force sensor (1) is within a preset range when a scanning controller is in operation, the latch counter (52) collecting a measurement value from a latch counter (52) each time the touch signal is generated in a state where the detection signal from the force sensor (1) oscillates and an amplitude exceeds the preset range. |
| US08573032B2 |
Underwater method and apparatus for detecting leaks in a metallic tank or pit liner plate
A leak detecting apparatus for detecting flaws in a surface submerged in liquid is provided that includes a vacuum head for contacting the surface and forming a vacuum chamber filled with liquid between the surface and the vacuum head, the vacuum head including a multi-surface elastomer seal for contacting the surface; and a vacuum generator for pulling gas through a flaw in the surface into the vacuum head and to the gas separation chamber so as to displace the liquid from the gas separation chamber. A method for detecting flaws in a surface submerged in liquid is also provided. |
| US08573031B2 |
Tunable multiwalled nanotube resonator
A tunable nanoscale resonator has potential applications in precise mass, force, position, and frequency measurement. One embodiment of this device consists of a specially prepared multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) suspended between a metal electrode and a mobile, piezoelectrically controlled contact. By harnessing a unique telescoping ability of MWNTs, one may controllably slide an inner nanotube core from its outer nanotube casing, effectively changing its length and thereby changing the tuning of its resonance frequency. Resonant energy transfer may be used with a nanoresonator to detect molecules at a specific target oscillation frequency, without the use of a chemical label, to provide label-free chemical species detection. |
| US08573029B2 |
Method for sending a falling body in a falling-body viscometer, falling-body sending device, and falling-body viscometer provided therewith
A configuration capable of suppressing a variation in the measurement result of a falling body viscometer is proposed. Provided is a method of sending a falling body of a falling body viscometer when sending the falling body loaded in a loading unit of a loading holder into a measured substance, in which the falling body of the falling body viscometer is sent out in a manner such that the falling body is sent out from the loading unit by pressing the falling body using an extruding pin, thereby suppressing a variation in the measurement result. |
| US08573027B2 |
Methods and devices for determination of flow reservoir volume
A novel enhanced flow metering device is adapted for disposing into a flow material reservoir a known volume of flow material whereby software used in conjunction with a pressure sensor may be calibrated. Additionally, by measuring the known amount of flow material returning to the flow material reservoir, checks are quickly made to ensure the pressure sensor is behaving as expected. |
| US08573026B2 |
Method for ascertaining volume—or mass—flow of a medium
A method for ascertaining volume- or mass-flow of a medium in a pipeline, or measuring tube, of radius (r) via a sound entrainment method, wherein ultrasonic measuring signals are transmitted and/or received along a plurality of defined sound paths (m). During a calibration phase, successive, different flow profiles (v(r)) of a measured medium are established in the pipeline, or in the measuring tube, and wherein, for each flow profile (v(r)), a defined volume flow, or a defined mass flow, is ascertained, wherein, on the basis of measured values (vx(r1) . . . vx(rm)) ascertained in the separate measuring paths (m), each flow profile (v(r)) established in the pipeline, or in the measuring tube, is described by a characteristic parameter set (a1, . . . , an with nεN) and wherein, for each flow profile (V(r)), on the basis of the defined volume- or mass-flow and on the basis of the measured volume- or mass-flow, a flow-profile-dependent correction factor MF(a1, . . . , an) is calculated, and wherein, subsequently in measurement operation, a volume- or mass-flow ascertained via the parameter set (a1, . . . , an, with nεN) is corrected with the flow-profile-dependent correction factor MF(a1, . . . , an) determined during the calibration phase. |
| US08573025B2 |
Hot stretch forming die having distortion-minimizing characteristics
A hot stretch wrap forming die typically includes a rigid backing section, a series of spaced ribs extending forward from the backing section, and an elongated face sheet secured to the ribs forward of the backing section with a convex forward-facing die face. The ribs elastically deflect during thermal expansion of the face sheet when a heated metal bar is forced against the die face so that the metal bar transfers heat to the face sheet. The die typically includes stiff ribs secured to the backing section and the face sheet which provide substantially fixed points for the face sheet during its thermal expansion. The face sheet may include several face sheet segments which together from the die face. The face sheet may also include contour plates which form respective portions of the die face and which may be used to adjust the specific contour of the die face. |
| US08573023B2 |
Press-molded product and method of manufacturing same
Methods and apparatuses for manufacturing a press-molded product with a preform including a pair of side wall portions and a connecting wall portion are taught. The preform is pressed with a mold until at least one wall portion is bent toward a gap within the mold, and a plate thickness is increased at the at least one wall portion and the connecting wall portion by pressing other wall portions. |
| US08573022B2 |
Method for making enhanced heat transfer surfaces
The invention relates to enhanced heat transfer surfaces and methods and tools for making enhanced heat transfer surface. Certain embodiments include a boiling surface that include a plurality of primary grooves, protrusions and secondary grooves to form boiling cavities. The boiling surface may be formed by using a tool for cutting the inner surface of a tube. The tool has a tool axis and at least one tip with a cutting edge and a lifting edge. Methods for making a boiling surface are also disclosed, including cutting through the inner surface of a tube to form primary grooves, then cutting and lifting the inner surface to form protrusions and secondary grooves. |
| US08573017B2 |
Device for handling and/or transporting back-up rolls and/or work rolls of a roll stand at least in pairs
The invention relates to a device for handling and/or transporting back-up rolls and/or work rolls (4a, 4b) of a roll stand, preferably at least in pairs, especially in sets, between the roll stand arranged in a roll ball and a roll workshop, and in the roll workshop. Said device comprise a roll-changing pit that extends transversely to the roll direction of the roll stand, form the roll stand towards the roll workshop, and has displacement devices for at least one pair or set of dismantled back-up or work rolls (4a, 4b), and a roll-changing stand (8) that is arranged transversely to the roll-changing pit in the roll workshop and can be moved across said pit in or away from the roll direction of the roll stand. The aim of the invention is to enable the time required for a back-up roll change to be reduced and the back-up roll change to be simplified. To this end, the roll-changing stand (8) comprises two roll-receiving regions (13, 14) that have an especially U-shaped cross-section and are arranged at a distance from each other in the roll direction of the roll stand, said regions each comprising both bearing surfaces (15, 16) for receiving work rolls (4a, 4b) and bearing surfaces (17, 18) for receiving back-up rolls. |
| US08573016B2 |
Compression rolling mill having a drive unit
The invention relates to a compression rolling mill for compressing a metal strand sideways, having a pair of mutually engaging rollers (9, 10), arranged perpendicular to the center axes, connected to a rotary drive (31, 32; 34) by means of articulated shafts (29, 30), characterized in that the two rollers (9, 10) are connected to the rotary drive (31, 32; 34) by means of a gearbox (27, 28) adjustable together with the rollers (9, 10) and by means of articulated shafts (29, 30) each connected to one of the two gearboxes (27, 28), wherein the articulated shafts (29, 30) are inclined at an acute angle to the horizontal. |
| US08573015B2 |
Rolling mill and rolling method
The present invention relates to the providing of a rolling mill that makes it possible to more accurately control the shape of a plate material than has hitherto been possible, and to a rolling method, and is a rolling mill that rolls a plate material using vertical work rolls, and that includes: a coolant jet spray unit that has a plurality of nozzles that are arranged at predetermined intervals in the direction of the rotation axis of the work rolls, and that sprays jets of coolant from the respective nozzles onto the work rolls; a roll temperature estimation unit that estimates a mean temperature of the work rolls; a coolant temperature detection unit that detects a temperature of the coolant; a shape detection unit that detects the shape in the width direction of the rolled plate material; a shape deviation calculation unit that calculates an amount of deviation between a plate material shape detected by the shape detection unit and a target shape; and a shape control unit that controls the shape of the plate material by controlling the spray quantity and/or temperature of the coolant which is sprayed from the coolant jet spray unit based on a difference between the mean temperature of the work rolls and the temperature of the coolant, and on the amount of deviation between the plate material shape and the target shape. |
| US08573013B2 |
Method and device for adjusting a flexer station during the rounding of metal sheets
During the bending of sheet metal sections (1, 2) in particular for forming can edges using a bending machine, the sheet metal is pre-treated at a flexing station (50) before reaching the bending station. The contact position (x, y, y′) of a sheet on a measuring plate (38) is measured and the signal representing the contact position is reproduced on a display (25), enabling the operator to adjust at least one element (7, 8, 9, 20) of the flexing station in accordance with the deviation of the actual contact position from the target contact position, either manually or by means of a drive. The signal can also be used to automatically adjust at least one element of the flexing station. |
| US08573005B2 |
Apparatus and method for mass producing 3D articles from 2D glass-containing sheets
An apparatus for mass production of 3D articles from 2D glass-containing sheets includes a heating section having a heating station that includes a heating chamber adapted to receive a 2D glass-containing sheet, a pneumatic bearing system proximate to the heating chamber for suspending the 2D glass-containing sheet inside the heating chamber, and a heater system proximate to the heating chamber for supplying heat to the heating chamber. A forming section downstream of the heating section has a forming station that includes a mold system adapted to shape a heated 2D glass-containing sheet into a 3D article. A cooling section downstream of the forming section has a cooling chamber adapted to controllably cool off one or more 3D articles. A method of mass producing 3D articles from 2D glass-containing sheets involves use of the apparatus. |
| US08572999B2 |
Refrigerator
An ice maker is installed at a refrigerating chamber, and an ice bank is installed at a door of the refrigerating chamber. A cooling air duct extends along a wall surface of the refrigerating chamber and is positioned on an upper side of the ice bank so that ice stored in the inside of an ice bank is prevented from sticking to each other due to the melting of ice. |
| US08572997B2 |
Positioning foot unit of a domestic appliance
An adjustment foot unit of a domestic appliance, in particular an adjustment foot unit of a refrigerator unit and/or freezer unit, has a vertical adjustment device having a rotatable rod and a spindle rotatably supported in a housing and having a thread at least sectionally, with the rod and the spindle being connected to one another such that a rotation of the rod results in a rotation of the spindle, having an adjustment unit, in particular a nut, which is arranged rotationally fixedly and has a thread which is in engagement with the thread of the spindle as well as having a foot part displaceable relative to the housing, with the foot part and/or the adjustment unit having a sloped plane in which the adjustment unit is in contact with the foot part. |
| US08572992B2 |
Method for recovery and recharge of blend refrigerants with blend sent for reclamation
A refrigerant recovery unit that diverts blended refrigerant withdrawn out of a refrigerant system to an external tank outside the refrigerant recovery unit for reclamation includes a recovery circuit coupled on one end to the refrigerant system and coupled on another end to the external tank, a controller in communication with the recovery circuit for controlling a transfer of the refrigerant withdrawn from the refrigerant system to the external tank, and a valve operatively engaged with the controller and the recovery circuit and operable to transfer the refrigerant withdrawn from the refrigerant system to the external tank for recycling or reclamation. |
| US08572988B2 |
Cold trap and vacuum evacuation apparatus
A cold trap includes a refrigerator and a cold panel that is thermally connected with the refrigerator to be cooled. A rough surface is formed on the cold panel. The cold trap is arranged, for example, in an evacuation channel for connecting a vacuum chamber with a turbo-molecular pump in order to freeze and capture, on a surface thereof, part of a gas that is to be sucked and pumped into the turbo-molecular pump from the vacuum chamber through the evacuation channel. |
| US08572986B2 |
Retainer for suspended thermal protection elements in a gas turbine engine
A hanger system includes a pin with a head section which defines a pin axis. A clip assembly captures the head section to permit movement of the pin within a hanger in a direction transverse to the pin axis. A fastener which retains the clip assembly to the hanger. |
| US08572985B2 |
Air filtration system for gas turbine engine pneumatic system
A gas turbine engine pneumatic system for controlling an air bleed valve includes a variable orifice device for controllably discharging air from the pneumatic system in order to reduce a maximum air pressure applied to the air bleed valve, to a predetermined level. A filter device is provided to filter the air discharged from the variable orifice. |
| US08572983B2 |
Gas turbine engine component with impingement and diffusive cooling
A gas turbine engine component includes a gas path wall having a first surface and second surface and an impingement baffle having impingement holes for directing cooling fluid onto the first surface of the gas path wall. A cooling hole extends through the gas path wall. The cooling hole continuously diverges from an inlet in the first surface to an outlet in the second surface such that cross-sectional area of the cooling hole increases continuously from the inlet to the outlet. A longitudinal ridge divides the cooling hole into lobes. |
| US08572978B2 |
Fuel injector and aerodynamic flow device
A gas turbine engine includes a reverse flow annular combustor having a liner with opposing ends. One end includes apertures configured to receive compressed air, and an outlet is provided at the other end and is configured to connect to a turbine nozzle. A fuel injector extends through the liner at a base and axially between the apertures and the outlet. The fuel injector includes a housing extending from the base to a dome and provides an exterior surface surrounding an injector cavity. The exterior surface has forward and rearward surfaces respectively facing the apertures and the outlet and provides shapes that are different than one another to influence and improve the aerodynamic flow field of the gas mixture (i.e., air, fuel and combustion-products) within the combustor volume. |
| US08572976B2 |
Reduced stress internal manifold heat shield attachment
A fuel manifold assembly for a gas turbine engine fuel system comprises a fuel manifold at least partly enclosed by a heat shield, the internal manifold being made of a first material having a first coefficient of thermal expansion, and the heat shield being made of a second material having a second coefficient of thermal expansion that is lower than the first coefficient of thermal expansion. |
| US08572974B2 |
Variable speed and displacement electric fluid delivery system for a gas turbine engine
A fluid delivery system in a gas turbine engine includes an electric motor, a first fluid pump system and a second fluid pump system. The electric motor operates at a variable speed. The first pump system includes a first pump driven by the motor to deliver a first fluid to the gas turbine engine. The second pump system includes a second pump driven by the motor to deliver a second fluid to the gas turbine engine, the second pump having a variable displacement. |
| US08572973B2 |
Apparatus and method for generating power and refrigeration from low-grade heat
An apparatus and a method generate power and refrigeration from low-grade heat. The apparatus includes a heating module, a power generator module, an ejector, a heat exchanger, a condenser module, a low-temperature evaporator, a reservoir, a pressure pump and two direction controllable three-way valves. The heating module includes a heat source and a boiler. The power generator module includes an expansion turbine and a power generator. The condenser module includes a condenser and a cooling tower. The method is that the direction controllable three-way valves are operated to change the flow directions of the working fluid for executing a power generation and refrigeration mode, a power generation mode, a refrigeration mode or an idle mode. |
| US08572968B2 |
Solar thermal power plants
A solar thermal power plant is provided comprising a solar collection system and a steam-electric power plant. The solar collection system comprises one or more tube radiation absorbers containing a thermal fluid therewithin, the system being configured to heat the thermal fluid by passing the thermal fluid through the one or more tube radiation absorbers while the absorbers are irradiated with solar radiation. The steam-electric power plant comprises an intermediate-pressure steam turbine, a low-pressure steam turbine, at least one additional steam turbine having an inlet pressure higher than that of the intermediate-pressure steam turbine, and piping containing a working fluid. Each turbine is associated with a heat exchange system adapted to transfer heat from the thermal fluid to the working fluid. |
| US08572966B2 |
Heat engine apparatus and method
A heat engine apparatus for use in association with a borehole and a method of operating a heat engine in association with a borehole. The apparatus includes a first heat exchanger assembly in fluid communication with a proximal segment of the borehole, a second heat exchanger assembly in fluid communication with a distal segment of the borehole, a circulation barrier for providing a seal between the apparatus and the borehole in order to isolate the proximal segment of the borehole and the distal segment of the borehole from each other, and a heat engine associated with the first heat exchanger assembly and the second heat exchanger assembly, wherein the heat engine is a gas phase closed cycle thermodynamic heat engine. The first heat exchanger assembly, the second heat exchanger assembly, the circulation barrier and the heat engine are all adapted to be inserted in the borehole. |
| US08572965B2 |
High-temperature radiator storage yard generating apparatus
A chimney has a lower portion substantially in the shape of a pyramid and an upper portion forming a cylindrical portion that extends with a predetermined dimension upwardly and is provided in a ceiling portion of a building of a coil yard that is used for temporary storage of the hot-rolled coil which is an intermediate iron and steel product acting as a high-temperature heat radiator that is manufactured using the hot-rolling equipment of an iron and steel mill. A power generating turbine is provided at a predetermined position in the cylindrical portion. An intake duct is provided on a lower end portion of the side walls of the building. Hot-rolled coils that are in a high-temperature condition after manufacture are successively imported into the coil yard and accumulated and stored until transfer to a subsequent processing step. An ascending airflow is generated by sequential heating of air introduced into the building from the intake duct using heat retained in the hot-rolled coils. The power generating turbines are rotated by the ascending airflow passing through the cylindrical portion of the chimney to thereby execute wind power generation. As a result, the heat retained in the high-temperature heat radiator manufactured by introduction of heat can be efficiently used. |
| US08572964B2 |
Method for recuperating energy from an exhaust gas flow and motor vehicle
In a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine providing a hot exhaust gas flow which is used as heat source for a Clausius-Rankine cycle process, wherein a pump is provided in the cycle for pumping, pressurizing and circulating an operating fluid, the pumping operation is controlled by a controller depending on the exhaust gas mass flow through an evaporator and possibly also the exhaust gas temperature to vaporize the operating fluid and expanding the vapor under pressure in an expander while generating energy. The vapor is condensed in a condenser to form a condensate which is again returned to the pump. |
| US08572953B2 |
Vehicle exhaust waste heat utilizing system having a heating pipe mechanism
A vehicle exhaust waste heat utilizing system includes a heating pipe mechanism heated by an exhaust device to boil raw water, a raw-water containing mechanism, a boiled-water conveying mechanism, and a boiled-water processing mechanism. The raw-water containing mechanism supplies raw water into the heating pipe mechanism. The boiled-water conveying mechanism conveys boiled water flowing from the heating pipe mechanism. The boiled-water processing mechanism receives and stores the boiled water flowing from the boiled-water conveying mechanism. |
| US08572952B2 |
Diesel particulate filter control
Methods and systems are provided for managing particulate emissions in an engine including a particulate filter and a CO2 sensor downstream of the filter. A CO2 sensor may be used to infer the presence of particulate matter in the exhaust, downstream of the filter. By sensing particulate matter in the post-filter exhaust, filter degradation may be identified. |
| US08572945B2 |
High voltage multiple phase power supply
To explore deeper expanses of space, rocket ships need rockets that can last twice as long as conventional rockets. Modern rockets use the electric field to attract and accelerate charged particles out and away from the combustion chamber. Space qualified components to increase the electric field are difficult to obtain. Various embodiments of the present subject matter use multiple phases of an input signal into the power supply to cause the output DC voltage signal to be substantially smooth. These smoother signals reduce the voltage requirements of the output diodes and capacitors thereby making them easier to obtain. |
| US08572944B2 |
Prime mover for an exhaust gas recirculation system
A portion of the exhaust generated by a turbomachine is recirculated through an inlet portion by an exhaust gas recirculation system. The system reduces the level of constituents within the exhaust before the exhaust is recirculated. The turbomachine may be utilized to drive the exhaust gas through the system. |
| US08572942B2 |
Curved profile seed pans
A seed pan apparatus has an elongated seed pan plate with parallel right and left edges, a curved configuration and a pointed front end. An engagement mechanism attaches the plate to a harvester cutting header such that the plate is above two adjacent guard fingers, such that an open slot is defined between the right edge of one plate and the left edge of an adjacent plate and the edges of the slot are in proximity to the outer edges of the guard fingers under the adjacent plates. The point is offset to make one front tapering edge forming the point longer than the other. The inclination, height, and fore and aft position of the seed pan plate can be adjusted. |
| US08572938B2 |
Header height control with closed center pump
An agricultural combine has a header height control circuit supplied with hydraulic fluid from a closed center pump. The pump has a variable displacement. The pump displacement is controlled by a control line connected to the pump. The control line is supplied with fluid from the feederhouse lift cylinders that passes through a valve. The valve supplies hydraulic fluid at the feederhouse lift cylinders to the control line of the pump. Upon receiving fluid from the valve the closed center pump rapidly changes its outlet pressure to match the pressure in the feederhouse lift cylinders and thus reduces the response time of the closed center pump. |
| US08572936B2 |
Sealing jaw for producing sealed packages of a food product
A sealing jaw for producing sealed packages of a food product from a tube of packaging material fed along a path, the jaw having a first work surface which interacts with a second work surface on a counter-jaw to grip the packaging material and form a sealing strip crosswise to the path. One of the jaw and counter-jaw defines an anvil, and the other defines a heating device which interacts with the anvil to form the strip. The first surface has at least two projections elongated along respective first axes, and which, when forming the strip, compress respective areas of the packaging material against the second surface; and at least one cavity which extends along one of the first axes, is interposed between the projections along a second axis crosswise to the first axis, and is located laterally with respect to a central plane of the first work surface. |
| US08572935B2 |
Assemblage of and method of assembling reams of paper on a pallet
An assemblage of reams of paper includes a plurality of layers of reams of paper. The plurality of layers includes a first layer having a first arrangement of reams, a second layer having a second arrangement of reams disposed on top of the first layer, and a third layer having a third arrangement of reams disposed on top of the second layer. The second arrangement is different from the first arrangement so as to form interlocking first and second layers, and the third arrangement is different from the second arrangement, so as to form interlocking second and third layers. |
| US08572934B2 |
Food portioning system
A system for providing single portion viscous or semi-viscous food products utilizes an indexing conveyor to serially dispense pieces of top packaging material thereon, deliver a precise volume of the single serve food product, deposit a top packaging material piece thereon, press the sandwiched layer together to form the final shape of the food product and, optionally, heat seal the top and bottom material pieces to enclose the food product. Optional system layouts include cooling and/or oxygen depleted zones and multiple lane operation and serially adjacent rows of system components wherein the indexing conveyor moves forward by two increments at each indexing cycle. |
| US08572933B2 |
Method for manufacturing soft capsule and apparatus for manufacturing the same
An apparatus for manufacturing a soft capsule containing a filling coated with a shell portion formed of a shell-sheet, having a sheet molding section forming a shell-sheet having an almost uniform thickness from a molten shell material, a capsule molding section feeding shell-sheets between a pair of die rolls and joining the shell sheets, and a filling supply section supplying a filling to the shell-sheets in time for joining the shell-sheets, in which the sheet molding section has a dryer equipped with a medium wavelength infrared heater; the shell-sheet is irradiated with a medium wavelength infrared ray from the heater to thereby obtain an almost uniform thickness, an appropriate viscosity, and moisture content; and the sheet of this state is fed to the capsule molding section. |
| US08572931B2 |
Wrapping mechanism for applying adjacent rolls of wrapping material to a large round bale
A bale wrapping mechanism for feeding bale surface wrapping material to an inlet of a baling chamber containing a bale to be wrapped includes a support arrangement for supporting a plurality of wrapping material supply rolls disposed with their adjacent ends either overlapping each other or disposed in axially aligned or end-to-end relationship with each other. In the case of overlapping ends, the adjacent runs of material respectively emanating from the plurality of supply rolls overlap each other and are applied to the circumference of a bale being wrapped in an overlapped arrangement. In the case of axially aligned supply rolls and when the wrapping material is a spreadable net material, a material spreading arrangement is located between the supply rolls and an inlet to the baling chamber and acts to spread the net so that adjacent runs of wrapping material respectively emanating from the plurality of material supply rolls overlap each other and remain overlapped as they are applied to the bale. |
| US08572930B2 |
Single layered web beam for a drywall suspended ceiling
A balanced, single-layered web beam for a grid in a drywall suspended ceiling, wherein opposing flanges at the bottom of the web are cantilevered directly from the bottom of the web. When the flanges are equally loaded by the drywall sheets, the resultant load on the beam passes through the vertical plane of the web, so the beam does not twist or bend. |
| US08572926B2 |
Lattice tower and an erection method for a wind turbine with a lattice tower
A method of erecting a wind turbine comprising the following steps: Providing the hub (9), the blades (11), the nacelle (13) and a lattice tower (15) comprising first and second sections (21, 27) pivotally connected along an axis (17) at a height H, in which the tower lower part, below height H, is composed by the second section (27), including the tower lower and upper legs (31, 33) and a first part (23) of the first section (21) and in which the tower upper part, above height H, is composed by a second part (25) of the first section (21). Assembling on ground the wind turbine, with the nacelle (13) resting on a carrier (19). Raising the second section (27) and fixing the upper legs (33) to second foundation corners (43). Raising the first section (21) and fixing its first part (23) to the second section (27). |
| US08572920B2 |
Self-centering ceiling panel
A panel for a drop ceiling is made of a semi-rigid but resilient material such as spring steel and includes corner clips adapted to cooperate with the inverted T-shaped stringers of a drop ceiling support system so that the panel is self-centering between opposing stringers and is spring biased into a clamped relationship with horizontal flanges of the inverted T-shape stringers to prevent the panel from moving up and down. The corner clips are also designed to transfer any horizontal compressive shear force in the mounting system to vertical edges of the panel so as not to undesirably bow the flat base of the panel. |
| US08572917B2 |
Underlayment with improved drainage
An underlayment with improved drainage is disclosed. Particularly, the invention relates to an underlayment board having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the board further includes a top edge and a bottom edge and includes at least one channel defined in the first surface with each of the at least one channel extending from the top edge to the bottom edge to form a drainage path therebetween. More particularly, the underlayment board can include at least one funnel defined proximate at least the top edge or the bottom edge, wherein the at least one funnel is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the at least one channel. A method of finishing an exterior of a structural substrate and a building assembly are also disclosed. |
| US08572916B2 |
Masonry unit systems and methods
Some embodiments of masonry blocks can be used to form a wall system that provides an improved resistance to moisture penetration that might otherwise advance to an interior surface of the wall. In particular embodiments, some or all of the masonry blocks in the wall system may be equipped with one or more moisture drainage elements formed in a surface of the respective masonry block. |
| US08572912B2 |
Cover profile for floors
A cover profile (1) for floors for adaptation to different applications is described, having at least one cover flange (10), having a fastening attachment (9), which divides the cover flange (10) into two legs (12, 13), on the bottom side of the cover flange (10), and having at least one bending groove (14), which is parallel to the profile axis, on the bottom side of at least one of the legs (12, 13), which are preferably of different widths. In order to provide advantageous design conditions, it is proposed that the cover flange (10) carry a coating (11), which forms a film hinge (16), on its outer side opposite to the fastening attachment (9) in the area of the bending groove (14), and the two leg sections on both sides of the bending groove (14) be supported against one another by a hinge block (19). |
| US08572910B2 |
Cap-on-cap mounting block
A wall-mounting block or frame is used to mount fixtures to exterior building walls having siding. The wall-mounting block includes two major parts, a first or base section and a second or holding section which are both configured as cap-like structures detachably connected to each other with integrated, adjustable connectors. The present design eliminates the need for special hardware to attach the holding section to the base section, and helps prevent awkward mounting situations. |
| US08572909B2 |
Flat roof solar racking system
A flat roof racking system configured for receiving solar panels having electrically conductive frames, the racking system comprising substantially parallelly disposed panel support structures, spacer bars and retaining and grounding clips pairs, each panel support structure comprises a first end, a second end, a top member having a first channel section connected to a second channel section and two ends, and a bottom member having a channel section and two ends. The first and second channel sections are disposed in a plane but at an angle from one another and each end of the bottom member is fixedly connected to an end of the top member such that the top member is configured to make a first tilt angle at the first end with the bottom member and a second tilt angle at the second end with the bottom member. |
| US08572907B2 |
Attachment system of photovoltaic cell to fluoropolymer structural membrane
The invention describes an extensible membrane system to which a photovoltaic device is removably attached via hook and loop fabric, or equivalent thereof. |
| US08572906B2 |
Solar cell module
A solar cell module 1a is constituted from a main frame member 10a and a sub-frame member 20a that hold a solar cell panel 9. The main frame member 10a is constituted from a main outer wall 11, a main holding upper piece 12, a main holding lower piece 13, and a main bottom piece 16 and, also, the sub-frame member 20a is constituted from a sub-outer wall 21, a sub-holding upper piece 22, a sub-holding lower piece 23, a sub-base piece 24, a sub-inner wall 25, and a sub-bottom piece 26. Then, the main bottom piece 16 and the sub-bottom piece 26 are formed so as not to collide with each other, such that the projecting position heights of the pieces are different. |
| US08572902B2 |
Method for installation of roof insulation and membrane roofing
A method for installing roof insulation includes adhering the insulation to a covering membrane material or retaining the insulation by an overlapping cross-bar, track or joint. Elongate cables stretch across the insulation and membrane material to secure the insulation and membrane material to roof deck. |
| US08572898B2 |
Method for assembling flush glass assembly
A method for assembling an automobile door is provided that comprise providing a lower frame comprising a movable glass piece disposed within an inner panel and an outer panel, a daylight opening module comprising a glass guide, a retaining structure having a channel to slideably retain the glass guide and first and second openings. The method also includes sliding the module downward until a portion of the module contacts the inner panel. The method further includes securing the module to the inner panel. |
| US08572897B2 |
Weatherstrip cinch clip
A weatherstrip cinch clip for an automobile including a substantially vertically aligned first wall, a substantially vertically aligned second wall extending substantially perpendicularly to the first wall, and a substantially horizontally aligned prong extending away from the second wall in a direction substantially parallel to the first wall, wherein the prong is configured to extend substantially within a prong receiving aperture. |
| US08572896B2 |
Linear drive for sliding doors or the like
A linear drive for sliding doors, particularly linear drives based on linear motors. A linear drive, for at least one part which is movable along a movement path, particularly a sliding door leaf, has at least one linear motor for the at least one part. A stator part of the linear motor is received in a receiving profile so as to be prevented from falling out. The receiving profile is constructed to be arranged at a fastening device, which is arranged in turn on the installation side of a wall portion or top portion. Accordingly, the stator part and receiving profile form a module or unit, which can be mounted in its entirety. Therefore, a person performing the mounting can use the receiving profile for mounting, which helps to reduce the risk of damaging the stator part. |
| US08572895B2 |
Receiver/emitter cover utilizing active material actuation
A system for protecting an emitter/receiver device, including a cover and an active material actuator operable to selectively cause the cover to move between default protective and open positions, wherein the actuator includes at least one active material element, such as an SMA wire configured to cause the retraction of the cover and present a heating net when activated, and an activation signal source, and preferably further including at least one pulley and/or jack mechanism configured to redirect a displacement force vector, synchronization means, an antagonistic element for biasing the cover towards the protective or open position, and a controller presenting overheating protection through control logic. |
| US08572892B1 |
Self-closing hanging system
A self-closing hanging system includes an entrance, a base support member located at one side of the entrance, a bearing arrangement attached to the base support member, a support arm attached to the base support member, a bumper assembly defined by at least one bumper frame member pivotably fastened to the gate surface member at a gate fulcrum, an at least one bumper contact element fastened to the at least one bumper frame member, the at least one bumper contact element is capable of axial rotation about the at least one bumper frame member, and a counter-balance assembly extending from the first bumper frame member to the second bumper frame member. |
| US08572889B1 |
Aerated and water conditioned container for live bait
A bait bucket with aerating and cooling functions is particularly adapted for use with live bait and includes an inner bucket, an outer bucket, and an insulated tube. A bottom exterior of the inner bucket includes a water cooling system which provides a cooling and an oxygenating function to the quantity of water contained within the inner bait bucket. The outer bucket includes a fan and a vent which provide circulation and additional cooling to water cooling system. |
| US08572887B2 |
Collapsible luring dredge device
A collapsible luring dredge device includes a hub assembly having a plurality of separate hub sections each adapted to hold an extended spreader bar and together joined into a stacked unit assembled along a central axis with a pair of spring-loaded detents disposed within the stacked unit on opposite sides of the central axis. Inner surfaces of the hub sections at each end of the hub assembly are formed with a plurality of concave cavities arranged in a circular pattern intended to engage the detents as the hub sections are selectively rotated about the central axis. The hub assembly may thus be moved through a set of registered positions between a deployed configuration wherein the spreader bars are maintained in a substantially radial pattern for trolling use and a folded configuration wherein the bars are substantially aligned for storage. |
| US08572883B2 |
Pull-thru firearm cleaning system and method
A firearm cleaning device comprises a flexible cable and threaded coupling assembly, to which a plurality of components may be attached individually or in combination for optimal configuration based on cleaning need and firearm type. A spear-point piercing adapter may be threadably attached to a cable with a coupling portion fixed thereto. The piercing adapter includes a threaded shank with a sharp tip, on which a cleaning patch is speared and a jag is threadably attached thereto, thereby sandwiching the cleaning patch between a body of the piercing adapter and the jag. The cleaning device and various components and attachments can be packaged and sold as a single compact device, which provides mobility for field use, configurability for use with a wide range of firearm types, and cost savings due to fewer components and reduced packaging size. |
| US08572876B2 |
Systems and methods for detecting use of an electronic control device
A system detects that an electronic control device for inhibiting use of skeletal muscles by a human or animal target has been used. The system includes a radio receiver and a circuit. The electronic control device causes a radio signal when used. The circuit detects a plurality of properties of a received radio signal and outputs a signal in response to comparing the received properties to expected properties. |
| US08572874B2 |
Artwork protection device
An artwork protection device (2) having a set of brackets (1) that mount into a wall (18) which support a clear protective cover (14) over the front of a piece of hanging artwork (16). Each bracket has a footing (3) with a proximal end (4) and a distal end (5). The proximal end is attached to the wall using a screw, a bolt and a wall anchor and so forth. An extension (8) having a distal end (9) and a proximal end (10) that attaches to the distal end of the footing. The proximal end of the extension preferably has a recessed edge (12) that is placed through an aperture (13) located on a periphery of the protective cover. A cap (15) attaches to the proximal end of the extension, thereby locking the protective cover in place. The device allows a user to easily remove the protective cover and bracket extensions when the user wants to fully display the painting and to attach the caps directly to the footings to give an aesthetic appearance to the footings. |
| US08572871B2 |
Ironing system
The invention relates to an ironing iron including a sole plate (1), wherein at least one V-shaped recess (6) is placed, said recess (6) being particularly defined by a removable insert (2) forming a contour relative to the plane of the sole plate (1) and comprising at least one steam outlet (3), the recess further communicating with at least one steam inlet (7). |
| US08572867B2 |
Fluid-filled chamber with a reinforcing element
Several sole components and a method of manufacturing those sole components are disclosed. In general, each sole component includes a fluid-filled bladder and a reinforcing element extending around a portion of the bladder. The reinforcing element is bonded to the exterior of the bladder, and may be recessed into the bladder. In some configurations, the reinforcing element is die-cut from a sheet of polymer material, and the reinforcing element may exhibit a layered configuration. In manufacturing the sole component, the reinforcing element may be located within a mold, and the polymer material forming the bladder may be bonded to the reinforcing element during the molding process. |
| US08572865B2 |
Apparatus and method for using a hybrid dryer tub for airflow improvement
An apparatus includes a mechanical refrigeration cycle arrangement having a working fluid and an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion device, cooperatively interconnected and containing the working fluid. The apparatus also includes a sensor located to sense at least one parameter, a controller coupled to said sensor and said compressor, a drum to receive clothes to be dried, wherein a rear portion of the drum is equipped with multiple perforations, and a perimeter portion of the drum is equipped with multiple perforations, and a duct and fan arrangement configured to pass air over said condenser and through said drum, wherein the duct and fan arrangement is configured to facilitate airflow through the perforations on the rear portion of the drum into the drum, and out of the drum through the perforations on the perimeter portion of the drum to enable an increased airflow without an increased power input. |
| US08572858B2 |
Portable coordinate measurement machine having a removable external sensor
A portable articulated arm coordinate measurement machine is provided. The coordinate measurement machine includes a manually positionable articulated arm having opposed first and second ends. The articulated arm includes a plurality of arm segments, each including encoder configured to produce a signal corresponding to an angle of rotation. A base section is connected to the second end. A measurement probe is connected to the first end. The measurement probe receives an externally mounted sensor having an attachment ring, the measurement probe having an alignment surface and external threading. A retaining ring having internal threading is threadably receives the external threading; the retaining ring further couples the attachment ring to the surface. An electrical circuit is configured to receive the signal and to provide data corresponding to a coordinate of the externally mounted sensor, the data based at least in part on the signal. |
| US08572857B2 |
Apparatus for measuring objects
An apparatus for measuring objects includes a base plate for supporting an object to be measured and includes a probe. The probe is movable relative to the object by means of an actuator to sample the object in a contacting manner, wherein the probe carries, and in particular supports in a mount, a sampling body, in particular an elongate sampling body, whose front end is designed as a measuring tip for a contact with the object. The probe is arranged beneath the base plate, wherein at least one recess is provided in the base plate for leading through at least one section of the sampling body. |
| US08572852B1 |
Safety cutting device
A safety cutting device comprises, in an exemplary embodiment, a housing, a longitudinally movable blade positioned within the housing, and a longitudinally movable guard positioned substantially adjacent the blade. Additionally, the device provides a means for substantially preventing the blade from extending through a first end of the housing when the guard is in a retracted position, such that the blade is incapable of extending out of the housing without first extending the guard. In further embodiments, the device provides a pair of longitudinally movable guards flanking the blade and configured for selectively moving independent of one another, thereby allowing both right- and left-handed users to operate the device without having to change any settings or reconfigure the orientation of the guards or blade. In such further embodiments, the blade is substantially prevented from extending without at least one of the guards first being moved out of the retracted position. |
| US08572842B2 |
Method for thermally enhancing injection of power cables
A method for enhancing the dielectric properties of at least one in-service electrical cable section having a central stranded conductor encased in a polymeric insulation jacket and having an interstitial void volume in the region of the conductor. The method includes filling the interstitial void volume with at least one dielectric property-enhancing fluid and then confining the fluid within the interstitial void volume at a residual pressure greater than about 50 psig, with the pressure being imposed along the entire length of the cable section and being below the elastic limit of the insulation jacket. The cable section is heated by imposing a potential of no more than about 500 volts across the conductor during at least a portion of the time required to complete the other described steps. |
| US08572839B2 |
Fabrication method for multi-piece board
A fabrication method for a multi-piece board having a frame part and multi piece parts each having a printed wiring board includes producing the frame part having a first coupling portion, and the multi-piece parts including piece parts each having a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion at a production panel with at least the frame part and the piece parts being separated from each other, separating the frame part and the multi-piece parts from the production panel, and coupling the first coupling portion to the second coupling portion to couple the frame part and the piece parts and combine the frame part and the multi piece parts so as to yield the multi-piece board. |
| US08572832B2 |
Apparatus for compressing an expandable medical device
Various systems for compressing and loading an expandable medical device into a sheath are disclosed. One system comprises an array of moveable blades radially disposed about a central axis and forming a radially contractible aperture. The blade array includes at least a first plurality of blades and a second plurality of blades. The first plurality of blades is independently moveable with respect to the second plurality of blades. Additional aspects of the invention include methods of using the various compressor systems to compress and load an expandable medical device into a sheath. |
| US08572831B2 |
Disassembling an item by means of RF energy
Technologies are generally described for providing inductively removable assembly bonding. Inductive elements may be placed strategically at bonding locations between two or more coupled components. At disassembly time, the elements may be heated through Radio Frequency (RF) energy causing the bonds to break and components to separate. For example, inductive elements placed near plastic stake bonds between dissimilar materials in an electronic device may be employed to separate the dissimilar materials during a recycling process. According to some examples, the elements may also be heated through a directly applied electric current via a network of connections designed into the assembly. |
| US08572826B2 |
Method and device for in-line surface treatment of slabs
A method and a device for improving the outer surface quality by an in-line outer surface treatment of slabs, which are produced in a continuous process from strand casting to hot rolling, with a heating furnace arranged between a CSP-casting machine and a hot rolling train. A defined surface of the slab with a layer thickness per slab side of up to 4 mm is oxidized in a targeted manner by an oxidation device. An oxidation treatment of the slab surface is combined with the following processing in-line method steps: prior to the oxidation treatment the outer surface of the slab is freed of naturally occurring scale by a scale washer, after the oxidation treatment a created oxidation layer as well as the newly formed scale is cooled, mechanically broken up in a roll pair and removed from the surface of the slab by a scale washer. |
| US08572825B2 |
Method for producing piezoelectric composite substrate and method for producing piezoelectric element
A method for producing a piezoelectric composite substrate with satisfactory productivity controls the inclination of the crystal axis and the polar axis of a single-crystal thin film and prevents an adverse effect due to pyroelectricity in a production process. The method for producing a piezoelectric composite substrate provided with a plurality of piezoelectric materials includes an ion-implantation step, a bonding step, and a separation step. In the ion-implantation step, H+ ions are implanted into a piezoelectric single crystal material. In the bonding step, the piezoelectric single crystal material is bonded to a piezoelectric single crystal material. At this time, the polarity of the polar surface of the piezoelectric single crystal material is opposite to the polarity of the polar surface of the piezoelectric single crystal material, the polar surfaces being bonded to each other. In the separation step, a separation layer of the piezoelectric single crystal material is divided by heating to separate a piezoelectric single-crystal thin film. |
| US08572824B2 |
Method for manufacturing quartz crystal unit and quartz crystal oscillator having the quartz crystal unit
A method for manufacturing a quartz crystal unit comprises disposing a metal film on a surface of a quartz crystal wafer, disposing a resist on the metal film, forming a tuning fork shape pattern on the surface, etching the quartz crystal wafer to form a quartz crystal tuning fork shape having a base and first and second tines, forming electrodes on opposite side surfaces of the first and second tines so that the electrode of the first tine has an electrical polarity opposite to an electrical polarity of the electrode of the second tine to form a quartz crystal tuning fork resonator that vibrates in a flexural mode of an inverse phase, removing the resist before forming the electrodes, mounting the tuning fork resonator on a mounting portion of the case, disposing a metal or a glass into a through-hole of the case, and adjusting an oscillation frequency of the tuning fork resonator. |
| US08572819B2 |
Enhanced safety hook
An enhanced safety hook includes a hook body, a latch member, an operation handle and a spring member. The hook body includes a hook hole having a hook opening, a hook end formed at a top end thereof, a pin slot at a position below the hook opening, and a guide slot. The latch member includes a main plate and two side plates define an upside-down U-shape frame, a peripheral edge bridged between the two side plates in such a manner that a top end of the latch member constructs a mouth for receiving the hook end, a guide arm connected to the two side frames to couple with the guide slot, and a pin element coupling with the pin slot. The pin element is movably provided in the pin slot in such a manner that the mouth of the latch member is capable of detaching from the hook end, so that the latch member unlocks the hook opening by means of rotation of the pin element in the pin slot, while the guide arm slides in the guide slot for preventing the latch member from having contact with the inner wall of the hook body along the hook hole. The operation handle has a rotation hole for the pin element to pass through so as to enable the pin element to move in the pin slot. The spring member retains the latch member in a position that the latch member tends to lock the hook hole. |
| US08572818B2 |
Connecting assembly for fastening an add-on element on a carrier
A connection assembly for fastening an attaching element on a support (10) comprises a holding clip (16), which can be inserted into a mounting opening (20) of the support (10) and has holders (54) for axially fixing the holding clip (16) to the support (10), and a pin (12), which can be reversibly attached to a coupling piece (14) fastened to the attachment element and inserted into the holding clip (16). The pull-off force of the pin (12) in an intermediate position of the connecting assembly, in which the pin (12) has a first orientation relative to the holding clip (16), is larger than in a mounting position of the connection assembly, in which the pin (12) also has the first orientation and is inserted fully into the holding clip (16). |
| US08572817B2 |
Subsea transfer hook adaptor
A rigid U-shaped structure sized to be closely received on the tip end of the transfer hook. One side of the U-shape of the structure is closed. A padeye is rigidly attached to the end curved portion of the U-shape of the structure. Means for holding the U-shaped structure in position on the tip end of the hook is provided. The holding means may be threaded bores through one or both sides of the U-shaped structure that allow bolts to be threaded through the holes such that they create sufficient friction against the tip end of the transfer hook to hold the U-shaped structure in position. The holes through the U-shaped structure may be unthreaded with threaded nuts rigidly attached to the U-shaped structure such that the nuts are aligned with the holes to allow bolts to exert pressure against the tip end of the transfer hook in the same manner to hold the U-shaped structure in position on the transfer hook. |
| US08572816B2 |
Slide fastener
A slide fastener in which a fastener element has first and second leg portions continuously disposed at both ends of the coupling head is folded in half at its center, and the first leg portion is attached to a coupling element attaching portion of a fastener tape by a sewing thread. A vulnerable portion which is cut out into a V is formed on the bent end face of the coupling head. |
| US08572815B1 |
Universal tie down assembly
A universal tie down assembly includes first and second longitudinal belts comprising reinforced webbing made from a flexible fabric material. Each belt includes a buckle end and an anchor end. The anchor end is a loop of the reinforced webbing. At least one longitudinal slot is woven into an edge of at least one of the belts. The length of the slot is at least as great as the width of the belts. The assembly includes a novel open under load buckle having a receiving part (female part) and an insertion part (male part). The buckle end of one of the belts is adjustably disposed in a belt opening of one of the insertion part and the receiving part and the buckle end of the other of the belts forms a sewn loop that loops through a belt opening of the other of the insertion part and the receiving part. |
| US08572814B2 |
Bag closure
Systems and methods are provided herein that provide for bag cutting and closure. |
| US08572810B2 |
Furniture hinge
A furniture hinge, comprising a fitting part, a hinge cup that is articulated thereto for fastening to furniture parts, and a cushioning apparatus for cushioning a relative movement between the fitting part and the hinge cup, wherein the cushioning apparatus is disposed in or on the hinge cup, wherein the cushioning apparatus comprises a housing having first fastening means, and second fastening means are disposed on the hinge cup, wherein the housing of the cushioning apparatus can be inserted from above into the hinge cup and in the installed position is disposed substantially completely inside the hinge cup, wherein the housing of the cushioning apparatus and the hinge cup can be connected to each other in said installed position by the first and second fastening means. |
| US08572809B2 |
Apparatus for spring-assisted pivoting of a liftgate or door, and method for producing such apparatus
An apparatus for spring-assisted pivoting a liftgate or door against gravity between a closed position and an open position includes a torsion bar spring system with springs arranged in parallel in a meander pattern and connected with one another in fixed rotative engagement. An outer bearing-torsion bar spring and another outer lever-torsion bar spring are each supported in a support bracket of a tracker. The lever-torsion bar spring is connected in fixed rotative engagement with a length-adjustable lever guided in a control cam of the tracker. A coupling rod configured for translatory movement engages with the length-adjustable lever for rotating a hinged lever associated with the liftgate or door. An adjusting device is connected with the bearing-torsion bar spring in fixed rotative engagement and can be variably locked relative to the support bracket. A method for producing such apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US08572800B2 |
Base assembly for sweeper
A floor cleaner has a base assembly which comprises a body composed of an upper casing and a lower casing, a sweeping member mounted on the front side of the body, a steam generating member mounted at the rear side of the body, a pad tray with protrusions formed thereon to which a pad is attached, the protrusions made of a material that is softer than the material of the pad tray, and an attachment/detachment member that attaches and detaches the pad tray to and from the bottom face of the lower casing. |
| US08572798B2 |
Scratch-off card surface remover
A scratch-off card surface remover comprised of a single body assembly. The single body assembly contains a forward extruded scraping tip wherein the tip is a half sphere shape that contains a flat plane scraping edge and of which this shape is directly centered on and extending from the forward area of an elliptical mount formed directly to a middle obtruded hollow barrel hand grip further directly formed to an aft hollow barrel section containing two oppositely correlated perforations for the insertion of a means by which to carry and store the assembly. The horizontal movement of the single body assembly as applied to the surface of a scratch-off card empowers the scraping characteristic of the scraping tip portion of the assembly. |
| US08572789B2 |
Separating apparatus
The present invention relates to a separating apparatus for separating particles from a fluid flow. Particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a vacuum cleaner having such a separating apparatus for removing dust particles from a dust laden airstream. The separating apparatus includes a first cyclonic cleaning stage including at least one cyclone, and an electrostatic filter located downstream of and in fluid communication with the at least one cyclone, wherein at least a portion of the electrostatic filter is located longitudinally through the separating apparatus, at least a portion of the first cyclonic cleaning stage being arranged around the electrostatic filter. |
| US08572788B2 |
Concrete diaphragm including form spanning between spaced-apart longitudinal members
A form or a series of forms for forming the bridge diaphragm from concrete material includes one or more bottom walls having an inner surface thereof abutting a bottom surface of the diaphragm. There is at least a pair of side walls upstanding on the inner surface of the bottom wall or walls at a respective longitudinal edge thereof and has an inner surface thereof abutting a respective side surface of the diaphragm. The at least the pair of side walls define each of a generally open top and a generally hollow interior of the form. There is also means for securely attaching each end of the form or series of forms to one of a side surface of at least one of the pair of longitudinal members and an end of another form for forming the diaphragm from the concrete material. Bracing of upper edges is also provided. |
| US08572787B2 |
Aligned support bridge
A bridge deck suspended from a support beam where the deck describes a laterally curved shape, for example an arch having an apex between two deck ends. The support beam describes a laterally curved shape similar to that of the deck, for example an arch having an apex and two ends opposite to the apex that are secured in a base (foundation) in the ground. The support beam is generally inclined from the support's base foundations to the apex at an angle sufficient to position the support above the deck. The support's relative position, dimensions and shape are such that the majority of the supporting beam is above and approximately horizontally aligned with corresponding points of the deck, thereby allowing suspension cables to extend near vertically between attachment points on the support beam and corresponding attachment points on the aligned portions of the deck. |
| US08572778B2 |
User interface for hospital bed
A user module for a patient support apparatus is provided. The user module has a user interface operably coupled thereto. The user interface includes an input device and an output device. The output device includes a visual display including textual and non-textual elements. The non-textual elements include enhanced, graphical, and animated portions relating to one or more operational features of the patient support or to a person positionable on the patient support. The input device includes one or more touch sensors corresponding to defined regions of the visual display. |
| US08572777B1 |
Adjustable bed base
An adjustable bed base is disclosed in which the adjustable bed base comprises a pair of opposed side members, an adjustable foot assembly and an adjustable head assembly with each assembly comprising a first panel adapted to be connected to one of the opposed side members, a second panel adapted to be connected to the other one of the opposed side members, and a central panel adapted to receive the first panel and the second panel with the first panel and the second panel being movable relative to the central panel to adjust a length of each of the assemblies. |
| US08572776B2 |
Rolling foldout cabinet bed
A rolling foldout cabinet bed has two faces that fold out from a vertical to a horizontal position, thereby creating a surface that can be used for sleeping. When the cabinet is closed, a space within the cabinet stores a foldable innerspring, or other mattress. The two faces can be locked together in the folded position. During deployment, an elastic belt or other retainer and hold the folded mattress to one of the faces, and can also pull the mattress out of the interior space within the bottom of the cabinet. The cabinet also has legs for supporting the faces above the ground when in the opened configuration, and can include wheels that facilitate moving the cabinet quickly and easily moved. |
| US08572775B1 |
Crib
A crib is provided that includes a drop gate that pivots relative to a stationary portion of a wall from an open position to a closed position. The crib may include a hinge that in the closed position of the drop gate forms a cavity therein that has a height that is sufficiently large to enable a finger of a child to extend into the cavity to be adjacent a pivot axis of the hinge, without being pinched by the hinge. Also, the crib may include a stop surface of a latch device that contacts a projection in a cavity of a striker plate to prevent pivoting of the drop gate into an interior space of the crib. The cavity in the striker plate may include sufficiently large spaces above and below the projection to receive a finger of a child therein without the finger being pinched. |
| US08572771B1 |
Device for showering
A device for showering includes a water diverter connectable to a source of water, an overhead showerhead connected with the diverter and a hand-held showerhead connected with said diverter so that the diverter can direct water to the overhead showerhead or to the hand-held showerhead, and a rod-shaped element which is held by the diverter and is provided with a supporting member supporting the hand-held showerhead in a position of non-use. |
| US08572767B2 |
Protective helmet
Technology for protective helmets is provided, with a particular focus on rear opening full-face helmets. Embodiments are primarily focussed on an emergency release mechanism for such helmets, which allows the helmet to be separated into a front and rear shell thereby to facilitate removal from a wearer's head with minimal stress to the neck. |
| US08578509B2 |
Packaging film for product authentication, authentication method and system
A packaging film which contains pigment particles randomly distributed in a low surface-area density is used for the authentication of products. An imaging device is used to record a first digital image of a packaged product. The positional coordinates, and optionally the color values, of the pigment particles contained in the packaging film are determined from the digital image by means of a computer program and an identification code is calculated from the coordinate or color values and stored in a database. To authenticate the product at a later time, a second digital image is recorded and a test code is determined and compared with the recorded identification code. |
| US08578507B2 |
Access permissions entitlement review
A system for operating an enterprise computer network including multiple network objects, said system comprising monitoring and collection functionality for obtaining continuously updated information regarding at least one of access permissions and actual usage of said network objects, and entitlement review by owner functionality operative to present to at least one owner of at least one network object a visually sensible indication of authorization status including a specific indication of users which were not yet authorized by said at least one owner of said at least one network object. |
| US08578502B2 |
Method and system for controlled media sharing in a network
A method for controlling media sharing among a plurality of nodes in a network. The present method is comprised of availing to the network an instance of media content for sharing among the plurality of nodes by a source node communicatively coupled to the network. The present method further includes decrypting the instance of media content from an encryption local to the source node. The present method further includes encrypting the instance of media content into an intermediate encryption. The present method further includes transferring the instance of media content to a node while the instance of media content is in the intermediate encryption. The node is associated with the network. The decrypting and the encrypting and the transferring are in response to receiving a request for the instance of media content from the node. |
| US08578501B1 |
Anonymous social networking with community-based privacy reviews obtained by members
A member of an online community has an online identity published in the online community, and owns an offline identity which is not published there. The member manifests consent to a privacy review of an electronic communication involving the member, to help prevent disclosure of the member's offline identity within the online community. The electronic communication is reviewed by a human privacy reviewer and/or by automatically scanning for privacy concern triggers. Review results are provided to the member, who provides an opinion of the review that is then reflected in a summary of the reviewer's online reputation. |
| US08578495B2 |
System and method for analyzing packed files
A system and method for analyzing executable files on a computer is described. The method in one embodiment includes initiating, with an operating system of the computer, execution of a loader-process; loading, using the loader-process, code of a first executable file into an executable-memory of the computer; and executing the code of the first executable file, wherein the code of the first executable file unpacks other packed-code to generate unpacked code. In addition, the loader-process executes the unpacked code and stops execution of the unpacked code in response to the unpacked code attempting to make a potentially dangerous system call. The unpacked code is analyzed, in response to the unpacked code attempting to make the potentially dangerous system call, to assess whether the first executable file is a pestware file. |
| US08578494B1 |
Security threat detection
A method of detecting a potential security threat on a computing system is provided. The method comprises embedding time series data relating to the computing system within a reconstructed phase space and partitioning the reconstructed phase space into a plurality of regions. The method further comprises generating a first matrix having a plurality of cells. The first matrix comprises a row and a column for each of the plurality of regions. A value stored in each cell is based on a probability that the system will transition from a first region associated with the cell to a second region associated with the cell and a rate of separation of trajectories of the embedded data within at least one of the first region and the second region. The first matrix is generated using a first set of the time series data that is associated with a normal operating condition of the computing system in which the computing system is not under attack from a security threat. The method further comprises generating a second matrix based on a second set of the time series data and comparing the first matrix and the second matrix to detect whether a potential security threat is present on the computing system. |
| US08578493B1 |
Botnet beacon detection
A method and system to detect botnet beaconing event based on a beacon detection rule set to generate a beacon alert, which is in turn used to trigger an elevated exfiltration detection activity by reducing various thresholds in an exfiltration detection rule set. |
| US08578491B2 |
Network based malware detection and reporting
An apparatus, system and method are described for use in detecting the presence of malware on subscribers computers. The apparatus, system and method are network based and may be deployed within an Internet Service Provider (ISP) network. The system may include a plurality of network sensors for receiving and analyzing network traffic to determine the presence of malware. An aggregating apparatus receives alerts of the presence of malware and translates a network identifier of the alert to a subscriber identifier. The aggregating apparatus aggregates alert information and forwards it to a reporting infrastructure that can generate notifications in order to notify a subscriber that malware has been detected on a computer associated with the subscriber. |
| US08578484B2 |
Identification of content
Systems and methods for identifying content in electronic messages are provided. An electronic message may include certain content. The content is detected and analyzed to identify any metadata. The metadata may include a numerical signature characterizing the content. A thumbprint is generated based on the numerical signature. The thumbprint may then be compared to thumbprints of previously received messages. The comparison allows for classification of the electronic message as spam or not spam. |
| US08578482B1 |
Cross-site script detection and prevention
A Web site uses a behavior monitor that operates as a gatekeeper for a browser. The attack injects Web content with malicious executable code that executes on an end user device when the code executes in a browser on the device. A message is received at the monitor from a browser for retrieving Web content; the browser executes on a computing device having sensitive information. The Web content is retrieved from a target Web server and analyzed for XSS. If found, the destination to which some or all of the sensitive information will be sent if the XSS executes is determined. A message is displayed in the browser regarding whether the Web content that was requested should be viewed in the browser. In this manner, execution of the XSS in the browser is prevented. The analyzing and determining steps are performed before the Web content is received by the browser. |
| US08578478B2 |
Clustered file systems for mix of trusted and untrusted nodes
A cluster of computer system nodes share direct read/write access to storage devices via a storage area network using a cluster filesystem. At least one trusted metadata server assigns a mandatory access control label as an extended attribute of each filesystem object regardless of whether required by a client node accessing the filesystem object. The mandatory access control label indicates the sensitivity and integrity of the filesystem object and is used by the trusted metadata server(s) to control access to the filesystem object by all client nodes. |
| US08578476B2 |
System and method for risk assessment of login transactions through password analysis
A system and method is provided for determining a risk associated with a login transaction. A password received during the login attempt and determination is made regarding whether the received password is derived form user information. A risk is determined based on a determination that the received password is derived from the user information. |
| US08578475B2 |
Image forming apparatus, user authentication system, control program and computer-readable storage medium for operating image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus extracts, from image data, authentication data by which a user is identified, sends the extracted authentication data to a control terminal that recognizes a function available to the user identified by the extracted authentication data, and then receives, from the control terminal, available-function data indicative of a result of the recognition. Then, the image forming apparatus chooses, in accordance with the available-function data thus received, a function that is available in the image forming apparatus. This enables the image forming apparatus to validate or invalidate each function in accordance with a user on the basis of the extracted authentication data. |
| US08578471B2 |
Information processing apparatus and security protection method
According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes an input to input a password, a biological authentication device including a storage unit for storing biological information and identification information, and an authentication controller. The authentication controller sets and holds identification information to be stored in the storage unit of the biological authentication device, and permits a password input using the input to be substituted by authentication using the biological authentication device when the identification information held by itself and the identification information stored in the storage unit of the biological authentication device match. The authentication controller includes a setter to perform a setting for the identification information stored in the storage unit of the biological identification device and held by itself, on both conditions of authentication establishment with a registered password entry using the input and authentication establishment using the biological authentication device. |
| US08578469B2 |
Computer system protection
Methods, systems, and computer program products for computer system protection are provided. Embodiments protect against unauthorized access to information on stolen and/or illegally transported computer systems. Embodiments include locking of functionalities within a computer system when the computer system moves outside a designated area. Embodiments include limiting access to functionalities within the computer system based on the location of the computer system. Embodiments of the present invention include allowing variable levels of access protection depending on the location of the computer system. |
| US08578468B1 |
Multi-factor client authentication
A method of client authentication that includes receiving an Internet protocol source address of a client packet and determining a packet origination, a network connection point, and a network path of the client packet. The method further includes comparing the determined packet origination with at least one packet origination associated with the client, comparing the determined network connection point with at least one network connection point associated with the client, and assessing a compatibility between the determined network path and at least one of the determined packet origination or the determined network connection point. The method includes signaling execution of client authentication challenges when either of the two comparisons fails and/or the determined network path is incompatible with at least one of the determined packet origination or the determined network connection point. |
| US08578457B2 |
Process of remote user authentication in computer networks to perform the cellphone-assisted secure transactions
This invention relates to processes of personal user authentication in computer and mobile wireless communications networks to perform transactions including payments. The process provides remote user authentication in various computer networks, the Internet inclusive, to perform secure transactions such as e-commerce and remote banking (on-line banking, remote banking, direct banking, home banking, internet banking, PC banking, phone banking, mobile-banking, WAP-banking, SMS-banking, GSM-banking, TV banking). |
| US08578447B2 |
Method and apparatus for content aware optimized tunneling in a mobility environment
A method, computer readable medium and apparatus for performing content aware optimized tunneling in a communication network are disclosed. For example, the method authenticates a user endpoint device, establishes a tunnel to the user endpoint device if the user endpoint device is authenticated, analyzes content of a data packet transmitted through the tunnel to determine if the tunnel should be re-directed, and re-directs the tunnel to a gateway general packet radio services support node light based upon the content of the data packet. |
| US08578446B2 |
Authentication apparatus and entity device
A configuration including, in authentication contexts, function unit identification information unique to the function unit that has executed an authentication subprocess in entity devices permits an authentication apparatus to specify the function unit that has executed the authentication subprocess in the entity devices. The verifier, therefore, can verify the legitimacy of the authentication subprocess from the authentication context even in the presence of a plurality of function units capable of executing the same authentication subprocess in the entity devices. |
| US08578445B2 |
Micro and macro trust in a decentralized environment
A method and system are disclosed. In one embodiment the method includes calculating a trust level of a first entity. The first entity has a plurality of components. Each component in the first entity has at least the trust level of the first entity. |
| US08578444B2 |
Systems and methods of controlling network access
A new approach to network security includes manipulating an access point such that an initial communication from an external device is passed to a restricted subset of a computing network including a gatekeeper. The gatekeeper is configured to enforce a security policy against the external device before granting access to a less-restricted subset of the computing network. If requirements of the security policy are satisfied, then the gatekeeper reconfigures the access point such that further communication from the external device may be received by elements of the less-restricted subset. Enforcement of the security policy optionally includes performing a security audit of the external device. |
| US08578442B1 |
Enforcing consistent enterprise and cloud security profiles
Consistent enterprise and cloud security profiles are enforced. A domain model describing cloud resource objects associated with an enterprise is defined. Further, a relationship map describing relationships between the objects of the domain model and roles of enterprise users described by local security profiles maintained by the enterprise is specified. The domain model and relationship map collectively form an access policy for the cloud resource objects. Network traffic is monitored to detect network traffic attempting to configure a cloud security profile describing permissions of an enterprise user with respect to cloud resource objects in a manner inconsistent with the access policy. Detected network traffic attempting to configure the cloud security profile in the manner inconsistent with access policy is remediated. |
| US08578430B2 |
Throttling video on demand (VOD) based on usage
A device receives, from one or more of a set-top box (STB) or a user device, usage information associated with video content and high definition video content, and calculates a cost factor, based on the usage information, for a customer associated with one or more of the STB or the user device. The device also compares the cost factor to a threshold, and receives, from one or more of the STB or the user device, a request for free video content. The device further one of provides reduced quality free video content to one or more of the STB or the user device when the cost factor exceeds the threshold, or blocks transmission of free high definition video content to one or more of the STB or the user device when the cost factor exceeds the threshold. |
| US08578427B2 |
Method for swapping channel assignments in a broadcast system
A method of swapping channels in a broadcast system includes a broadcast operation channel management system receiving broadcast operation channel swap data for a first station and a second station. The channel swap data comprises an effective date, a first station identifier and a first position and a second station identifier and a second position. A traffic scheduling system database communicates a first channel mapping data for a first channel to the broadcast operation channel management system. The traffic scheduling system database communicates a second channel mapping for a second channel to the broadcast operation channel management system. The broadcast operation channel updates the first channel mapping to form a first updated first channel mapping by setting a first end date of the first channel mapping to the effective date for the first station and communicating the first updated first channel mapping to the traffic scheduling database. The broadcast operation channel updating the second channel mapping to form a first updated second channel mapping by setting a second end date of the second channel mapping to the effective date for the first station and communicating the first updated second channel mapping to the traffic scheduling database. The broadcast operation channel forms a first new channel mapping for the first station with the effective date as the first start date and forms a second new channel mapping for the second station with the effective date as the second start date. |
| US08578424B2 |
Digital broadcasting system and method for transmitting and receiving electronic service guide data in digital broadcasting system
Disclosed are a digital broadcasting system and a method for transmitting and receiving electronic service guide data in a digital broadcasting system, which communicates applications capable of executing content files downloaded through a file download service. The digital broadcasting system includes a digital broadcasting transmitter for broadcasting Electronic Service Guide (ESG) data which includes application information corresponding to respective content files, and a digital broadcasting receiver for receiving the broadcasted ESG data and executing applications corresponding to the respective content files by using the application information included in the ESG data. |
| US08578423B2 |
Interactive television program guide with remote access
An interactive television program guide with remote access is provided. The interactive television program guide is implemented on interactive television program guide equipment. A remote program guide access device is connected to the interactive television program guide equipment by a remote access link to provide a user with remote access to program guide functions. |
| US08578422B2 |
Process for making services in a list in a television system and terminal associated with the process
The invention relates to a process for selecting services in a television system using graphical indications displayed on a screen.The invention comprises in particular the steps of: (a) determining a first list (30) of services, the first list being a subset of a second list; (b) displaying at least a part of the first list, ordered according to a predetermined criterion; (c) selecting a service present in the second list, but not in the first list; (d) displaying a visual indicator (39) marking the relative location, according to the predetermined criterion, of the selected service in the first list (30). The invention also relates to the terminal for the implementation of the process. |
| US08578421B2 |
Headend modeling of data
A data modeling method for modeling data for an electronic program guide (EPG) at a broadcast headend is described. The method includes grouping receiver types according to a first set of characteristics associated with a receiver type, thereby producing a plurality of groups of receivers, assigning a bit number to each group of receivers, providing EPG data, the EPG data including data for display at an EPG, the EPG data being included in a data fragment, evaluating the data fragment and the EPG data included therein according to at least one characteristic from a second set of characteristics, thereby producing a result, adding metadata to the data fragment, the metadata including a bit field including the assigned bit number, the bit number being determined in accordance with the result, the metadata being indicative of at least one characteristic from the first set of characteristics with which a data container and EPG data included therein are associated, and broadcasting the data fragment in the data container. Related methods and apparatus are also described. |
| US08578417B2 |
Information processing device and editing method
An information processing device includes: a storage unit configured to store one or a plurality of content playlists; a virtual playlist generating unit configured to generate a virtual playlist of the content and stored in the storage unit in a manner correlated with the content; a reception unit configured to receive user instructions; an editing unit configured to, in the event of receiving editing instructions as to the content, subject the virtual playlist to editing processing following the editing instructions; and a title display control unit configured to, in the event of receiving a title display instruction for displaying the title of the content on a predetermined display unit, displaying the title of the content based on the virtual playlist which has been subjected to the editing processing by the editing unit. |
| US08578411B1 |
System and method for controlling iTV application behaviors through the use of application profile filters
Controlling the admission of interactive television iTV applications to an iTV application distribution system is accomplished through the use of iTV application profiles that enumerate sets of allowed functions and behaviors for the iTV applications within the distribution system. In general, the profiles comprise filters that enable various functions within the distribution system, and may be applied to the iTV applications according to any of a number of bases. The distribution system includes an interface or console adapted to permit a system operator to create the application profiles and establish rules for attaching the profiles to the iTV applications, and an application profile engine configured to automatically validate the iTV applications against the profiles according to those rules. |
| US08578408B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing directed advertising based on user preferences
A method, apparatus, article of manufacture, and a memory structure for providing advertisements into a streamed media program is disclosed. One embodiment comprises a user computer for accepting user input, the user input directly defining user preferences regarding the presentation of the advertisements in the streamed media program and for inserting advertisements in the streamed media program according to the defined user preferences; and a media program provider communicatively coupled to the user computer, for transmitting the streamed media program to the user computer for presentation to the user on a display communicatively coupled to the user computer. |
| US08578407B1 |
Real time automated unobtrusive ancilliary information insertion into a video
A computerized process for REAL TIME AUTOMATED UNOBTRUSIVE ANCILLIARY INFORMATION INSERTION INTO A VIDEO is described that requires no manual operations by the Source advertising business entity. A USER who has access to any computer hardware device chooses his Selected Video but sees on his Monitor that Selected Video with an Advertising Segment or a User clickable Logo inserted at some position in the video that does not distract from the dynamic content. |
| US08578402B2 |
Front panel of optical disc drive
A front panel of an optical disc drive is provided. The optical disc drive further includes a LED indicator for displaying a working status of the optical disc drive. The front panel includes a light-transmissible zone corresponding to the LED indicator. A thickness of the light-transmissible zone is smaller than an average thickness of the front panel. The light-transmissible zone is integrally formed with the front panel. |
| US08578401B2 |
Scalable integrated high density optical data/media storage delivery system
An apparatus and system for recording, playing, handling, and storing a plurality of media disks in a plurality of configurations and a device for moving any disk into and out of a media disk storage mechanism and into or out of a selected media player/recorder on demand, and a controller for directing operation of the device for moving the disks and controlling selection of operation of the media disk storage mechanism. |
| US08578397B2 |
System and method for supporting a remote isochronous device
A system and method are provided for supporting remote isochronous devices effectively. In one embodiment, first and second computer hosts include first and second virtual interposer logic, first and second send/receive logic and first and second at least partial device driver stacks therein. The first and second send/receive logics are configured to communicate packets between one another, representing commands and data passing between a user-level application at the first host and a peripheral device at the second host. The first and second virtual interposer logics are configured to interface the first and second send/receive logics to the first and second at least partial device driver-stacks within their respective hosts. To achieve low-latency transactions, the system includes speculative write completion functionality and/or speculative read functionality. |
| US08578391B2 |
System and interface for controlling devices
A group of IT devices is divided into zones according to a predetermined condition. An IT managing server that manages the group of IT devices sends a control request for changing the state of IT devices included in one of the zones according to the state of those IT devices under its management. The control request specifies the zone as a control target. A facility managing server that manages a group of facility devices receives the control request and controls a facility device that exerts effect on the zone, which is specified as the control target in the control request. |
| US08578381B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for rapid resource scheduling in a compute farm
Disclosed herein is a method for scheduling computing jobs for a compute farm. The method includes: receiving a plurality of computing jobs at a scheduler; assigning a signature to each computing job based on at least one computing resource requirement of the computing job; storing each computing job in a signature classification corresponding to the signature of the computing job; and scheduling at least one of the plurality of computing jobs for processing in the compute farm as a function of the signature classification. |
| US08578380B1 |
Program concurrency control using condition variables
A condition variable for controlling access to a critical section of computer code by a plurality of concurrently running execution threads comprises a data structure with a head list linking threads in an arrival order and a tail list linking threads in a reverse arrival order. Together, the head and tail lists together indicate which threads are currently blocked on the condition variable. A wait counter indicates how many threads are currently linked in the data structure and a signal counter indicates how many times the condition variable has been signaled for waiting threads that are currently linked in the data structure. The head and tail pointers, as well as the wait and signal counters, may be implemented as fields of a single, atomically updatable data word. |
| US08578379B2 |
Managing memory overload of java virtual machines in web application server systems
The invention relates to memory overload management for Java virtual machines (JVMs) in Web application sever systems. Disclosed is a method and system of memory overload management for a Web application sever system, wherein the Web application sever system comprises multiple JVMs, the method comprising: determining one or more replica shards for which replacement shall be performed; determining one or more target JVMs for storing a corresponding replica shard set including at least one replica shard from the one or more replica shards; and for each target JVM, performing the following: judging whether the free memory of the target JVM is adequate for storing the corresponding replica shard set; if the judging result is negative, performing the following: causing the target JVM to suspend the creation of session until the free memory of the target JVM becomes adequate for storing the corresponding replica shard set. |
| US08578377B2 |
Accelerator and its method for realizing supporting virtual machine migration
A computer-implemented method, an accelerator hardware unit, and an article of manufacture for supporting virtual machine migration. The method includes: acquiring a task request from a task queue of an accelerator hardware unit; extracting identification information of a related virtual machine from the task request; determining whether the identification information of the related virtual machine matches the identification information of a virtual machine to be migrated, where the identification information of a virtual machine to be migrated is recorded in a virtual machine identification information table; and deleting the task request from the task queue if the extracted identification information matches the identification information of a virtual machine to be migrated. |
| US08578376B2 |
Automatically and securely configuring and updating virtual machines
A method and program product for automatically and securely updating software on a virtual machine (VM). A VM coming online in a virtualized server is detected. A current version of the software that is installed on the VM is determined. The current version is determined to not match an updated version of the software available from a remote update server via a network. The updated version of the software is received from the remote update server and via the network without the VM being connected to the network. A confirmation is received indicating that the updated version of the software is installed on the VM. In response to receiving the confirmation, the VM is connected to the network. |
| US08578374B2 |
System and method for managing virtual machines
In some embodiments, a method for virtual machine management includes receiving a request for a first virtual machine from a virtual host. The method also includes comparing the request for the first virtual machine to a policy. The policy includes rules that govern access to a plurality of virtual machines. In addition, the method includes providing the virtual host access to a second virtual machine in response to comparing the request for the first virtual machine to the policy. |
| US08578373B1 |
Techniques for improving performance of a shared storage by identifying transferrable memory structure and reducing the need for performing storage input/output calls
Techniques for improving performance of a shared storage environment are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method for improving performance of a shared storage environment comprising determining a unit of shared storage utilized by an environment to be migrated, retrieving a storage management memory structure of a source computing platform for the unit of the shared storage, transferring the storage management memory structure to a target computing platform, and building a portion of storage management memory for the target computing platform utilizing the transferred storage management memory structure. |
| US08578370B2 |
Managing memory in multiple virtual machines
Virtual machines are managed by obtaining software hierarchy information of a current virtual machine to be installed. Then logical memory assigned to the current virtual machine is divided into a private part and a shared part based at least in part upon existing software hierarchy information of at least one virtual machine already installed and the software hierarchy information of the current virtual machine. Then, the shared part of the logical memory is mapped to shared segments of a physical memory, wherein the shared segments are used by at least one installed virtual machine. |
| US08578368B2 |
Injecting a file from the bios into an operating system
Techniques for the BIOS to install a file into the runtime environment of an operating system of a computer. A system management interrupt (SMI) handler, resident within the BIOS, receives a first request. The SMI handler identifies an address in memory at which a first file is to be stored, and determines how to access a function provided by a kernel of the operating system. The SMI handler calls the function using the address as an argument to create a thread in the runtime environment of the operating system. Upon the SMI handler receiving a request from the thread, the SMI handler stores a second file in the memory of the runtime environment of the operating system. The thread may, but need not, store the second file to a file system provided by the operating system. In this way, the BIOS need not include a driver to the file system. |
| US08578367B2 |
Method for enabling the installation of software applications on locked-down computers
A method for enhancing functionality of locked-down computers by allowing installation of software applications on the locked-down computers operated by users having limited administrator permissions. The method comprises detecting an attempt for installation of a software application on a locked-down computer; generating a virtual software application corresponding to the software application, wherein the virtual software application is generated in a virtual environment; and enabling the execution of the virtual software application in the virtual environment. |
| US08578362B2 |
Method for downloading software to an electronics product
A method for updating software on an electronics system that includes a processor switchable between modes and non-volatile memory includes over-writing original application software stored in an application sector of the memory to store cloned boot software such that original boot software remains in the memory, switching the system to a mode that accesses the cloned boot software, storing a temporary key in a key sector of the non-volatile memory that overrides an original key and is configured to instruct the processor to boot the cloned boot software upon initialization, over-writing the original boot software in the boot sector to store new boot software after storing the temporary key, storing a new key in the memory that is configured to instruct the processor to boot the new boot software upon initialization, erasing the temporary key, and switching the system to a mode that accesses the new boot software. |
| US08578360B1 |
Dynamically updating a computer system and firmware image utilizing an option read only memory (OPROM) data structure
Methods, systems, apparatus, and computer-readable media for dynamically updating a computer system and firmware image utilizing an option ROM (“OPROM”) data structure. When a hardware configuration of a computer system is modified, a corresponding OPROM within the firmware image is modified. An OPROM data structure is created in a firmware image. Each data structure contains identification data corresponding to the data structure as well as an OPROM entry for each OPROM within the firmware image. Each OPROM entry has identification data pointing to the corresponding OPROM and identification data corresponding to the OPROM and associated hardware device. Firmware program modules utilize the OPROM data structure to identify the correct OPROMs for use with the computer system hardware configuration. An application searches for a unique signature associated with the OPROM data structure and modifies OPROM entries as hardware devices and associated OPROMs are added to and removed from the computer system. |
| US08578358B2 |
Macroscalar processor architecture
A macroscalar processor architecture is described herein. In one embodiment, a processor receives instructions of a program loop having a vector block and a sequence block intended to be executed after the vector block, where the processor includes multiple slices and each of the slices is capable of executing an instruction of an iteration of the program loop substantially in parallel. For each iteration of the program loop, the processor executes an instruction of the sequence block using one of the slices while executing instructions of the vector block using a remainder of the slices substantially in parallel. Other methods and apparatuses are also described. |
| US08578357B2 |
Endian conversion tool
In one embodiment of the invention code (e.g., compiler, tool) may generate information so a first code portion, which includes a pointer value in a first endian format (e.g., big endian), can be properly initialized and executed on a platform having a second endian format (e.g., little endian). Also, various embodiments of the invention may identify problematic regions of code (e.g., source code) where a particular byte order is cast away through void pointers. |
| US08578356B1 |
High-level language code sequence optimization for implementing programmable chip designs
Methods and apparatus are provided for implementing a programmable chip using a high-level language. Code sequences such as high-level language software critical loops are converted into read/transform/write (RXW) processes with buffer based flow control between the processes. Having separate read and write processes allows an arbitrary number of sequential reads/writes to occur in any order, subject to buffer size, allowing bursting/sequential transactions that are more efficient than random accesses. |
| US08578355B1 |
Scenario based optimization
Techniques and systems for scenario based optimization can include generating multiple different versions of a program segment based on different respective execution scenarios associated with an execution of a program, the program operable to use the program segment versions. In another aspect, techniques and systems can include executing a program executable associated with multiple different versions of a program segment, analyzing the execution for an indication of at least one of the execution scenarios to select one of the program segment versions based on the indication, and causing the execution to use the selected program segment version during at least a portion of the execution. |
| US08578354B2 |
Link-time resource allocation for a multi-threaded processor architecture
A method comprising: independently compiling a plurality of modules of source code to generate a plurality of respective object modules comprising a plurality of respective parallel threads explicitly designated by a user to be executed in parallel on a target platform; in each of the object modules, inserting at least one symbol indicative of a usage of a resource of the target platform associated with the respective thread; executing a linker to perform a linking process for linking the object modules, wherein the linking process comprises assessing the symbols in conjunction with one another, and based on the assessment generating an indication relating to a usage of the resource required for execution of the threads in parallel. |
| US08578352B1 |
Optimizing object oriented programs using limited customization
A capability for limited customization that utilizes existing virtual dispatch table technology and allows selective customization is provided. Such a capability combines the usage of virtual dispatch tables with both customized and non-customized code to reduce, or even eliminate over-customization. Further, such a capability may employ a runtime system that decides what methods to customize based on several factors including, but not limited to the size of a class hierarchy, the amount of available space for compiled code, and the amount of available time for compilation. |
| US08578351B2 |
Hybrid mechanism for more efficient emulation and method therefor
In a host system, a method for using instruction scheduling to efficiently emulate the operation of a target computing system includes preparing, on the host system, an instruction sequence to interpret an instruction written for execution on the target computing system. An instruction scheduling on the instruction sequence is performed, to achieve an efficient instruction level parallelism, for the host system. A separate and independent instruction sequence is inserted, which, when executed simultaneously with the instruction sequence, performs to copy to a separate location a minimum instruction sequence necessary to execute an intent of an interpreted target instruction, the interpreted target instruction being a translation; and modifies the interpreter code such that a next interpretation of the target instruction results in execution of the translated version, thereby removing execution of interpreter overhead. |
| US08578349B1 |
System, method, and computer readable medium for integrating an original language application with a target language application
A system, method, and computer readable medium for integrating an original language application with a target language application comprises receiving properties related to a source file in the original language application, parsing the source file based on the received properties into a common format for the original language application and the target language application, receiving the parsed source file by a repository module, and placing contents of the received parsed source file on an interface. |
| US08578346B2 |
System and method to validate and repair process flow drawings
Disclosed is a system and method for validating and repairing flow diagrams using a process modeling validation method in conjunction with a process modeling repair method. The process modeling validation method points out structural ambiguities in a flow diagram that can make its automatic interpretation difficult. It also proposes fix to resolve such ambiguities. The method discloses a process semantic annotation scheme that can interpret process semantics in a flow graph implicit in a flow diagram. Further, the validation process compares one or more components of one or more drawings to a set of rules determined by a business process modeling standards and provides a set of semantic errors describing faulty parts of the drawing that do not comply with the business process modeling standards. The process modeling repair method corrects the drawing to ease and enable its automatic interpretation of the flow diagram and make the faulty parts of the drawing comply with the business process modeling standards. |
| US08578340B1 |
Recording and replaying computer program execution with recorded execution event breakpoints
A computer program execution record and replay system providing recorded execution event breakpoints is described. In one embodiment, for example, in the record and replay system, a method for providing recorded execution event breakpoints, the method comprising: recording information about one or more execution events that occur during a recorded execution of a computer program; during a replay execution of the computer program in which a particular execution event of the one or more execution events is faithfully reproduced, determining whether a breakpoint is to be set in the replay execution of the computer program based on the recorded information about the particular execution event; and if the breakpoint is to be set, then setting a breakpoint in the replay execution of the computer program such that the replay execution breaks at a point corresponding to the faithful reproduction of the particular execution event. |
| US08578338B2 |
Game production and regulatory approval systems
Methods and systems for creating, producing, and submitting new wager game packages for approval from regulatory bodies. A game development system includes a creative environment, a production environment, and a submission environment. In the creative environment, new wager game code is developed using pre-approved game components and other components provided by the game provider/publisher. In the production environment, the game code is tested and converted to operate in multiple platforms, to meet the requirements of various jurisdictions, and the like. In the submission environment, the game code and various submission documents are bundled into a game package for submission to a regulatory body. |
| US08578337B2 |
Method and system for quality assurance subscription service
Embodiments pertain generally to a method of providing a quality assurance subscription service for a customer. The method includes determining a new software configuration for the customer and instantiating a test virtual machine based on state information of the customer in a secure location. The method also includes executing the new software configuration on the test virtual machine to verify operational stability of the new software configuration. |
| US08578333B2 |
Method and system for client-side user interface enhancement to enable application integration and portalisation
A system for integrating and interoperating multiple heterogeneous applications, the system comprising: an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to enable human users to define the integration and interoperation points of the multiple applications; a configuration file format based on which the IDE generates specific configuration instances; and a runtime engine that understands configuration files adhering to the file format and performs the necessary integration and interoperation actions on the various constituent applications that have been referred to in the configuration file. |
| US08578327B2 |
Targeted to targetless application converter
A system includes a source database storing a targeted source code having references to hard-coded configuration information. A converter is in communication with the source database and is configured to replace the hard-coded configuration information in the targeted source code with soft-coded configuration information. A method includes searching the targeted source code for references related to hard-coded configuration information, receiving new reference names for the references, each of the new reference names corresponding to at least one of the references and being related to soft-coded configuration information, and replacing the references related to hard-coded configuration information with the corresponding new reference name to generate a targetless source code with the soft-coded configuration information. |
| US08578326B2 |
Localized information-preserving levels in model visualization
Local areas of a visualized modeling language diagram are viewable at different levels of detail without losing information such as model elements and their connectivity. Multiple elements are associated with a group element, which has a visual portion derived from the appearance of a group member element. Connectors between group member elements and non-member elements are suppressed in favor of replacement connectors between the group element and the non-member element(s). The integrity of incoming and outgoing connections to the group is maintained relative to the rest of the model. Ungrouping elements restores the elements to their original state. Grouping can be applied locally to one or more parts of the visual model. |
| US08578325B2 |
Communication virtual machine
A system for automating at least a portion of a communication application development cycle using a communication virtual machine that automatically interfaces with an existing network system and provides an engine for executing designed application models over the existing network system. |
| US08578324B2 |
Variability layer for domain-specific modeling languages
Methods and systems are provided for adding variability support for a modeling language. Developers may utilize the added support to transform a model written in a preexisting domain-specific modeling language for product line development in which there is structural and configurational diversity. A variability layer is incorporated into the model, which permits product developers to better use the language to model product line variants. |
| US08578322B2 |
Method and apparatus for AMS simulation of integrated circuit design
A method to create an integrated circuit that includes digital and analog components comprising: displaying on a computer system display, user input to the computer system that specifies parameter information to determine a binding between an analog circuit design component and a digital circuit design component; saving the user specified parameter information within a file that also specifies at least a portion of the analog circuit design; associating the analog circuit design component a first design block of an integrated circuit that also includes a second digital design block coupled to the first design block; using parameter information to determine a binding between the first analog circuit design component and the first digital circuit design component; saving the determined binding in computer readable storage media. |
| US08578319B2 |
Method and apparatus for designing and manufacturing electronic circuits subject to process variations
Methods and apparatus are described in which, at design-time a thorough analysis and exploration is performed to represent a multi-objective “optimal” trade-off point or points, e.g. on Pareto curves, for the relevant cost (C) and constraint criteria. More formally, the trade-off points may e.g. be positions on a hyper-surface in an N-dimensional Pareto search space. The axes represent the relevant cost (C), quality cost (Q) and restriction (R) criteria. Each of these working points is determined by positions for the system operation (determined during the design-time mapping) for a selected set of decision knobs (e.g. the way data are organized in a memory hierarchy). The C-Q-R values are determined based on design-time models that then have to be “average-case” values in order to avoid a too worst-case characterization. At processing time, first a run-time BIST manager performs a functional correctness test, i.e. checks all the modules based on stored self-test sequences and “equivalence checker” hardware. All units that fail are deactivated (so that they cannot consume any power any more) and with a flag the run-time trade-off controllers, e.g. Pareto controllers, are informed that these units are not available any more for the calibration or the mapping. At processing time, also a set of representative working points are “triggered” by an on-chip trade-off calibration manager, e.g. a Pareto calibration manager, that controls a set of monitors which measure the actual C-Q-R values and that calibrates the working points to their actual values. Especially timing monitors require a careful design because correctly calibrated absolute time scales have to be monitored. |
| US08578317B2 |
Routing method for flip chip package and apparatus using the same
Disclosed herein are rouging methods and devices for a flip-chip package. The flip chip includes several outer pads and several inner pads. The routing method includes: setting an outer sequence based on the arrangement order of the outer pads; setting several inner sequences based on the connection relationships between inner pads and the outer pads; calculating the longest common subsequence of each inner sequence and the outer sequence, defining the connection relationships between the inner pads and the outer pads corresponding to the longest common subsequence as direct connections, and defining the connection relationships between the inner pads and the outer pads that do not correspond to the longest common subsequence as detour connections; establishing the routing scheme of the flip chip based on the connection relationships between the inner pads and the outer pads. |
| US08578313B2 |
Pattern-clip-based hotspot database system for layout verification
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that generates a pattern-clip-based hotspot database for performing automatic pattern-clip-based layout verification. During operation, the system receives a list of pattern clips which specify manufacturing hotspots to be avoided in a layout, wherein each pattern clip comprises a set of geometries in proximity to each other. Next, for each pattern clip, the system perturbs the pattern clip to determine a first range of variations for the constituent set of geometries wherein the perturbed pattern clip no longer causes a manufacturing hotspot. The system then extracts a set of correction guidance descriptions from the first range of variations for correcting the pattern clip. Subsequently, the system stores the pattern clip and the set of correction guidance descriptions in the pattern-clip-based hotspot database. |
| US08578305B2 |
Semiconductor devices having tensile and/or compressive strain and methods of manufacturing and design structure
A semiconductor device having a tensile and/or compressive strain applied thereto and methods of manufacturing the semiconductor devices and design structure to enhance channel strain. The method includes forming a gate structure for an NFET and a PFET and forming sidewalls on the gate structure for the NFET and the PFET using a same deposition and etching process. The method also includes providing stress materials in the source and drain regions of the NFET and the PFET. |
| US08578304B1 |
Implementing mulitple mask lithography timing variation mitigation
A method, system and computer program product are provided for implementing multiple mask lithography timing variation mitigation for a multiple mask polysilicon (PC) process. An application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) library includes at least one circuit device for a first mask, and at least one circuit device for a second mask. Critical hold time paths and critical setup time paths are identified in a circuit design. For critical hold time paths, circuit devices in the critical hold time paths are placed on a single mask of either the first mask or the second mask. For critical setup time paths, path delays are reduced by providing a mixture of circuit devices on the first mask and the second mask. |
| US08578301B2 |
Hierarchical events
Systems and methods for the organization of hierarchical events are disclosed. A parent event in a first calendar application workspace classifies a hierarchy of events. A child event child event corresponds to a hierarchy of events. Identification of the parent event and a new child event results in the display of the new child event in a second calendar application workspace, the new child event being a scheduled event in the hierarchy of events that does not indicate a calendaring conflict with the parent event. A collaborative organization environment for discussion concerning the new child event may be provided. |
| US08578299B2 |
Method and computing device in a system for motion detection
A computing device in a system for motion detection comprises an image processing device to determine a motion of an object of interest, and a graphical user interface (GUI) module to drive a virtual role based on the motion determined by the image processing device. The image processing device comprises a foreground extracting module to extract a foreground image from each of a first image of the object of interest taken by a first camera and a second image of the object of interest taken by a second camera, a feature point detecting module to detect feature points in the foreground image, a depth calculating module to calculate the depth of each of the feature points based on disparity images associated with the each feature point, the depth calculating module and the feature point detecting module identifying a three-dimensional (3D) position of each of the feature points, and a motion matching module to identify vectors associated with the 3D positions of the feature points and determine a motion of the object of interest based on the vectors. |
| US08578297B2 |
Method of browsing media items using thumbnails
Disclosed is a method of browsing a set of media items on a display device. A sequence of thumbnail images corresponding to a portion of the set are initially displayed in a looping arrangement. A first thumbnail image of the sequence is displayed at a size larger than other thumbnail images of the sequence. The first thumbnail image corresponds to a focus position in the sequence. The arrangement responds to a user scrolling action to replace display of a second thumbnail image adjacent to an insertion point in the displayed sequence with a third thumbnail image corresponding to a media item of the set not displayed prior to the user action. The method then updates the focus position and insertion point and replaces a display of the first thumbnail image with display of a fourth thumbnail image corresponding to the updated focus position. |
| US08578295B2 |
Placement of items in cascading radial menus
Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for placing menu items in a cascading radial menu. A cascading radial menu may be displayed upon receiving a gesture that causes a screen pointer to select a radial menu item in a first radial menu. The first radial menu item may be associated with a second radial menu. One or more second radial menu items may be placed in the second radial menu based on a direction of movement of the screen pointer in the gesture to select the radial menu item in the first radial menu. |
| US08578288B2 |
Three state icon for operations
A three state icon for a computer is disclosed. The icon prevents inadvertent starting of an operation on a computer. The icon has a first state which conceals a second state. Upon selection of the first state with a computer pointing device (i.e., mouse), the icon will change to the second state. Upon selecting the icon in the second state, the operation on the computer will start. Accordingly, only upon selecting the icon in the first state and then the second state, the operation will commence on the computer thereby preventing accidental startup of the operation. Once the second state has been selected, the icon will change to a third state which indicates that the operation is proceeding on the computer. |
| US08578285B2 |
Methods, apparatus and systems for providing secure information via multiple authorized channels to authenticated users and user devices
Providing secure user-centric information via one or more user platforms operated by one or more users. Multiple channels are configured and implemented, through which information relevant to a given user is presented for user interaction via one or more user platforms associated with the user. A user profile is established identifying user preferences and one or more platform identities. The user profile is managed to grant the user access to specific ones of the multiple channels. In one example, user(s) and user platform(s) are authenticated to receive respective portions of the secure user-centric information based on user identities and platform identities. If authenticated, channel information relating to one or more of the multiple channels is transmitted to one or more users/user platforms, based on information access rights and/or security protocols respectively associated with the corresponding channels, the user(s), and the user platform(s). |
| US08578283B2 |
Suppressing unwanted UI experiences
Methods to allow, suppress, or reformulate a presentation of a UI element invoked by a computer program are provided. One method includes applying an administrator-configurable heuristic to determine whether to allow a native presentation of the UI element, to suppress the native presentation of the UI element, or to enable a reformulated presentation of the UI element. The method further includes one or more of suppressing and reformulating the UI element in accordance with a determination of the heuristic. |
| US08578280B2 |
Method and software for enabling N-way collaborative work over a network of computers
Method, software, and system for efficiently enabling n-way collaborative work using common software over a network of computers. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each participant in a collaborative session starts up a common software application, which includes a collaboration component. This collaboration component is used to establish a common session that includes all interested parties. The collaboration component replicates operations performed on any one instance of said application to all other instances participating in the same session, so the effect is as if all members of the session were sharing a single instance of the application on a single computer. In one aspect, the collaboration component also supports broadcast of audio and video over a computer network, to enable session participants to see and/or hear each other, and further includes other features that support collaborative work. |
| US08578279B2 |
Adaptive infotainment device
The present invention provides an adaptive infotainment device, comprising a display unit, a processing module, and a network module. The processing module is coupled to the display unit to decrypt and process the multi-media content. The network module is coupled to the processing module to receive the multi-media content and selecting paths and accessing nodes. The network module collects the usage log to be processed by the processing module to generate an accumulated user profile to be fused with user default information in a user default unit coupled to the processing module to generate at least one threshold value so that the display unit is capable of displaying the processed multi-media content according to the threshold value. Hence, the user's network behavior can be learned by combining the pre-determined preferences and the past usage preferences so as to generate the most favorable displaying means to enhance the convenience for browsing information. |
| US08578276B2 |
Dynamic adaptive cross-site custom interface
The system includes a user interface module to receive a request to access a dynamic adaptive custom user interface and to generate a dynamic adaptive custom user interface. The user interface module configures the user interface with one or more application modules, where each application module utilizes a data set provided by an application server. The user interface module uses a proxy module to obtain the data set from the application server. The user interface module populates the user interface with the data set from the application server and provides the dynamic adaptive custom user interface having the data set provided by the application server. |
| US08578274B2 |
System and method for aggregating web feeds relevant to a geographical locale from multiple sources
Systems and methods for aggregating web feeds relevant to a geographical locale from multiple sources are disclosed. One embodiment includes, aggregating a web feed using identifier information included in source metadata, parsing the web feed according to mapping information in the source metadata to generate a normalized web feed from the web feed having a data structure specified by the mapping information, determining the geographical locale that is relevant to the web feed, performing filtering on the normalized web feed to determine whether the normalized web feed includes qualified content for publication, and/or publishing the qualified content to be accessible to the user on the user device through a user interface on which the qualified content is depicted as being relevant to the geographical locale. |
| US08578272B2 |
Real-time or near real-time streaming
A user interface (UI) for controlling buffered content of a streaming presentation is disclosed. In one embodiment, the UI includes a time line which represents a length in time of a streaming content that has been buffered at a receiver, such as a client device which retrieves the streaming content by sending one or more URLs, in a playlist file, to a transmitter; an indicator on the time line shows a current playback position within the buffered content at the receiver. |
| US08578269B2 |
Information processing apparatus for performing a layout processing of sub-templates, information processing method and computer-readable medium
An information processing apparatus performs a process of laying out sub-templates to a page to which a repeated page setting is not set. If all the sub-templates are not laid out in the page to which a repeated page setting is not set, the information processing apparatus repeatedly obtains pages to which the repeated page setting is set until all the sub-templates are laid out in the pages. |
| US08578268B2 |
Rendering electronic documents having linked textboxes
A method for rendering an electronic document (ED). The method includes obtaining an intermediate format of the ED having multiple containers corresponding to multiple linked textboxes in the ED; obtaining a data structure including a root node associated with a string for distribution across the multiple linked textboxes and multiple segment nodes including multiple pointers to the multiple containers; executing a traversal of the multiple segment nodes; generating, during the traversal, multiple intermediate pages by applying a layout engine to the multiple containers referenced by the multiple pointers, where the string is distributed across the multiple intermediate pages; and generating a rendered page of the ED by substituting the container with an intermediate page corresponding to the container. |
| US08578267B2 |
Graphic assembly layout with maximum page coverage and minimum content removal
A method for arranging a plurality of graphic elements on a page into a final page layout is described. The method includes identifying a maximum cropping factor (CF) that determines the maximum amount by which a graphic element on the page can be cropped, obtaining a preliminary layout for the graphic elements on the page by, assigning a final area on the page to the preliminary layout, allocating a final area on the page for each graphic element; and fitting each graphic element to its allocated final area. |
| US08578261B1 |
Active preview of hyperlink content in browser supported file-format
In one embodiment, a method is illustrated as including receiving a digital content request relating to digital content accessible using a resource identifier, retrieving the digital content using the resource identifier, converting the digital content into formatted digital content having a file format different from that of the digital content, and compatible to be displayed in a preview frame, and transmitting the formatted digital content. Further, in some embodiments, a method is illustrated as including receiving a search result containing a resource identifier, extracting the resource identifier from the search result, and associating a file format description with the resource identifier, and displaying the search result and the file format description. |
| US08578260B2 |
Apparatus and method for reformatting a report for access by a user in a network appliance
A computer readable storage medium comprises executable instructions to receive a report for access by a user. The report is divided into sections and each section is tokenized based on the user's interests. A section score is calculated for each section in the report. One or more sections are selected for display to the user according to their section scores. The one or more sections are delivered to the user. |
| US08578258B2 |
Method and integrated circuit for increasing the immunity to interference
Disclosed is a method of improving the immunity to interference of an integrated circuit (16) having error signals transferred between a microprocessor chip or multiple processor μC (1) and an additional component (2). For the transfer, a minimum pulse length that is independent of the clock frequency of the microprocessor or the microprocessors is defined, starting from which a signal on an error line having a defined pulse length is interpreted as an error. Also disclosed is an integrated circuit, which is designed so that the above method is implemented. The circuit has a microprocessor chip or multiple processor microcontroller (1) or microprocessor module and an additional component (2) having separately arranged power elements. The circuit also has pulse extending devices and/or signal delaying devices for the output of error pulses (6, 6′) one after the other through at least one error line (3, 4). |
| US08578256B2 |
Low-latency decoder
In one embodiment, a signal-processing receiver has an upstream processor and a low-density parity-check (LDPC) decoder for decoding LDPC-encoded codewords. The upstream processor generates a soft-output value for each bit of the received codewords. The LDPC decoder is implemented to process the soft-output values without having to wait until all of the soft-output values are generated for the current codeword. Further, the LDPC code used to encode the codewords is arranged to support such processing. By processing the soft-output values without having to wait until all of the soft-output values are generated for the current codeword, receivers of the present invention may have a lower latency and higher throughput than prior-art receivers that wait until all of the soft-output values are generated prior to performing LDPC decoding. In another embodiment, the LDPC decoder processes the soft-output values as soon as, and in the order that, they are generated. |
| US08578255B1 |
Priming of metrics used by convolutional decoders
A sequence estimator is described. In one embodiment, the sequence estimator includes a plurality of maximum a posteriori probability (MAP) decoding engines each arranged to process a series of windows of a transmitted signal where state metrics produced for an end of one window by one decoding engine are re-used for the initialization of a state metric calculation process performed by another decoding engine on another window of the signal. |
| US08578250B2 |
Data classification in a wireless communication system
A method of data classification for use in a wireless communication system includes obtaining decoder metrics from a decoder. The decoder metrics correspond to data generated by the decoder. The decoder metrics include a first metric and a second metric. The method also includes classifying the data into a first category if the data fails an error detection check, into a second category if the data passes the error detection check and is determined to be unreliable, or into a third category if the data passes the error detection check and is determined to be reliable. A reliability of the data is determined based on at least one of the decoder metrics and a threshold. |
| US08578249B2 |
LDPC encoding and decoding of packets of variable sizes
Techniques to support low density parity check (LDPC) encoding and decoding are described. An apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to encode or decode a packet based on a base parity check matrix and a set of lifting values. In a particular embodiment, the set of lifting values is limited to lifting values that are each a different power of two. The memory is configured to store parameters associated with the base parity check matrix. |
| US08578248B2 |
Adaptive systems and methods for storing and retrieving data to and from memory cells
Adaptive systems include a memory device including a plurality of memory cells, a data quality monitoring block, and an adaptive data encoding block, the data quality monitoring block and the adaptive data encoding block both being operatively coupled to the memory device. The data quality monitoring block is configured to determine a quality value of a group of one or more memory cells included in the memory device, the determined quality value being indicative of a quality of the group of one or more memory cells. The adaptive data encoding block is configured to select a coding scheme from a plurality of coding schemes to encode data to be written to the group of one or more memory cells in the memory device, the selection of the coding scheme being based at least in part on the determined quality value of the group of one or more memory cells. |
| US08578246B2 |
Data encoding in solid-state storage devices
Methods and apparatus are provided for recording input data in q-level cells of solid-state memory (2), where q>2. Input data words are encoded as respective codewords, each having a plurality of symbols. The coding scheme is such that each symbol can take one of q values corresponding to respective predetermined levels of the q-level cells, and each of the possible input data words is encoded as a codeword with a unique sequence of relative symbol values. The symbols of each codeword are then recorded in respective cells of the solid-state memory by setting each cell to the level corresponding to the recorded symbol value. Input data is thus effectively encoded in the relative positions of cell levels, providing resistance to certain effects of drift noise. |
| US08578243B2 |
Data scrambling schemes for memory devices
A method for data storage includes defining a set of scrambling sequences, each sequence including bits in respective bit positions having bit values, such that a distribution of the bit values in any give bit position satisfies a predefined statistical criterion. Each data word is scrambled using a respective scrambling sequence selected from the set. The scrambled data words are stored in the memory device. |
| US08578237B2 |
Data processing apparatus and data processing method
The present invention relates to a data processing apparatus and a data processing method which can improve the tolerance to errors of data. A demultiplexer replaces, in accordance with an allocation rule for allocating code bits of an LDPC code to symbol bits representative of symbols, mb bits from among the code bits and sets the code bits after the replacement as symbol bits of b symbols. According to the allocation rule, where groups into which the code bits and the symbol bits are to be grouped in response to an error probability thereof are set as code bit groups and symbol bit groups, respectively, a combination of any of the code bit groups and the symbol bit group of the symbol bits to which the code bits of the code bit group are to be allocated and bit numbers of the code bits and the symbols bits are prescribed. |
| US08578236B2 |
Accumulating LDPC (low density parity check) decoder
The accumulating decoding architecture described herein is applicable to LDPC codes operating on a parity check matrix, H, consisting of CSI (Cyclic Shifted Identity) sub-matrices (or matrix sub-blocks) or permuted identity sub-matrices (or matrix sub-blocks). In such a structure, the entire LDPC matrix is broken into square sub-matrices such that each sub-matrix consists of either a CSI sub-matrix or a permuted identity sub-matrix, or a null matrix. The iterative decoding process operates by updating of APP (a posteriori probability) or gamma (γ) values and check edge message (λ) values, and this by updating one or more individual rows within a number of sub-matrix rows (or all sub-matrix or sub-block rows) are processed in parallel. The amount of parallelism is specified by the designer and is typically an integer divisor of the sub-matrix (or sub-block) size. |
| US08578232B2 |
HARQ process continuation after CQI-only report
Techniques for controlling synchronous HARQ retransmissions are disclosed, in which non-adaptive retransmissions scheduled for a first transmission time interval are automatically deferred to a later transmission time interval in the event that a control message prohibiting the retransmission during the first transmission interval is received. In an exemplary method, a NACK message is received (320) in response to a previous data transmission corresponding to a stop-and-wait HARQ process, and a synchronous HARQ retransmission is scheduled (330) for a first transmission interval in response. A control message indicating that data for the stop-and-wait HARQ process may not be sent during the first transmission interval is received, and the synchronous HARQ retransmission is automatically deferred (350) to a second transmission interval, responsive to the control message. An explicit grant is not required to trigger the retransmission during the second transmission interval. |
| US08578227B2 |
Delay test device and system-on-chip having the same
A test device for a system-on-chip includes a sequential logic circuit and a test circuit. The sequential logic circuit generates a test input signal by converting a serial input signal into a parallel format in response to a serial clock signal and a serial enable signal and generates a serial output signal by converting a test output signal into a serial format in response to the serial clock signal and the serial enable signal. The test circuit includes at least one delay unit that is separated from a logic circuit performing original functions of the system-on-chip, performs a delay test on the at least one delay unit using the test input signal in response to a system clock signal and a test enable signal, and provides the test output signal to the sequential logic circuit, where the test output signal representing a result of the delay test. |
| US08578226B2 |
Apparatus and system for implementing variable speed scan testing
In an embodiment of the invention, variable test clock circuitry is provided within an integrated circuit desired to be tested. The variable test clock frequency implements a test clock control register that receives serial test data from a device tester and is configured to serially pass the received test data to scan test chains within the integrated circuit. The test clock control register stores test clock information. The test clock information is provided to a test clock generator where the test clock generator then produces test clock signals at a predetermined frequency. The test clock signal is then provided as a test clock frequency for the scan test chains within the integrated circuit. Methods are also disclosed for operating the variable test clock frequency. |
| US08578225B2 |
One agumentation instruction register coupled to plural TAP instruction registers
An architecture for testing a plurality of circuits on an integrated circuit is described. The architecture includes a TAP Linking Module located between test pins on the integrated circuit and 1149.1 Test Access Ports (TAP) of the plurality of circuits to be tested. The TAP Linking Module operates in response to 1149.1 scan operations from a tester connected to the test pins to selectively switch between 1149.1 TAPs to enable test access between the tester and plurality of circuits. The TAP Linking Module's 1149.1 TAP switching operation is based upon augmenting 1149.1 instruction patterns to affix an additional bit or bits of information which is used by the TAP Linking Module for performing the TAP switching operation. |
| US08578224B2 |
High density flip-flop with asynchronous reset
A master/slave latch includes an input stage, a master latch, a slave latch, and receives an asynchronous clear signal. The input stage is arranged to alternately pass or block a data input signal in response to a clock signal and a gated clock signal. The gated clock signal is the inverse of the clock signal when the asynchronous clear signal is not asserted, and the gated clock signal is not active when the asynchronous clear signal is asserted. The master latch receives and latches the passed data signal in a latched state, clears the latched state in response to the asynchronous clear signal being asserted, and generates a master latch output signal. The slave latch receives and latches the master latch output signal in a latched state. The cleared latched state is passed to the slave latch in response to the asynchronous clear signal being asserted. |
| US08578221B1 |
Method and system for measuring bit error rate and block error rate of device under test
A method is provided for determining a measure of error of a device under test (DUT). The method includes storing baseband data received from the DUT in a storage device, segmenting the baseband data into multiple data segments, determining processing parameters for one data segment of the plurality of data segments, and storing the determined processing parameters for the one data segment. The method further includes retrieving additional data segments of the multiple data segments from the storage device, and processing the additional data segments using the stored processing parameters for the one data segment. The measure of error of the DUT is determined based at least in part on data from the processed additional data segments. |
| US08578216B2 |
Execution history tracing method
An execution history tracing method includes tracing an execution history of a CPU upon executing, in a semiconductor device including the CPU, a program by using the CPU, for one or a tracing target, from outside the semiconductor device via software. The execution history tracing method includes recording, in a buffer, target information as trace information about an execution of the one or the tracing target, for each instruction cycle in which the target information is produced as the execution history; and performing data sorting by using the software to group the trace information about the execution of the one or the tracing target, the trace information being recorded for the each instruction execution cycle, for each of the one or the tracing target. |
| US08578212B2 |
Remote communication system and method
Disclosed is a remote communication system and method. A remote communication system includes a digital protection relay and a remote monitoring system. The digital protection relay stores and maintains fault indices for identifying a predetermined number of faults that have occurred, fault time tags corresponding to the fault indices and fault data corresponding to the fault indices. The remote monitoring system sets a fault index, a fault time tag, a fault data block size to be communicated at a time and a fault data block index for specifying a fault data block to be communicated, and requests the digital protection relay of a fault data block. |
| US08578211B2 |
Real time error detection in multimodal communication systems
Diagnostic data of a multimodal enhanced communication system is processed at a central diagnostic service by normalizing detected errors based on modalities, traffic volumes, and/or individual user patterns such that failures can be efficiently and accurately analyzed across the communication system. Configurable thresholds may be used for modality-specific logs, traffic volume normalized errors, and persistent user adjusted results to optimize alerts issued to administrators. |