| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08617170B2 |
Customized patient-specific computer controlled cutting system and method
A customized patient-specific orthopaedic surgical system including a first surgical block, a second surgical block, and a computer-controlled milling machine. The first surgical block includes a first bone-facing surface having a first customized patient-specific negative contour to receive a first corresponding contour of a bone of a patient and a first mounting surface. The second surgical block includes a second bone-facing surface having a second customized patient-specific negative contour to receive a second corresponding contour of the bone of the patient and a second mounting surface to be separately mated with the first mounting surface. The computer-controlled milling machine includes a third mounting surface to be separately mated with the first mounting surface of the first surgical block. |
| US08617168B2 |
Oval tibia guide
A guide apparatus having a body having a central axis defined therethrough and a first channel and a second channel formed therethrough, a handle coupled to the body, the handle having a locking mechanism configured to prevent movement of the body relative to the handle in a first direction along the central axis of the body, and an arm coupled to the handle, the arm configured to engage at least a portion of a bone. |
| US08617163B2 |
Methods, systems and devices for carpal tunnel release
Described herein are methods, systems and devices for cutting a ligament of a patient. In some embodiments, the method may include the steps of advancing a cannulated probe into a patient, advancing the distal end of the tissue modification device assembly posteriorly through the skin of the patient such that it exits the patient, exposing at least one tissue modification element of the tissue modification device assembly, and reciprocating at least a portion of the tissue modification device assembly by alternately pulling on proximal and distal portions of the tissue modification device assembly to draw the at least one tissue modification element across the ligament to cut the ligament, in some embodiments, the system may include a probe, a tissue modification device, and a sheath. The tissue modification device may include a proximal handle, at least one tissue modification element configured cut ligament, and a sharp distal tip. |
| US08617160B2 |
Dynamic intramedullary hardware
An intramedullary nail comprising an outer tubular sheath, a flexible rod and a driver element mobile within the sheath longitudinally with an engagement element formed out of the wall of the tubular sheath. After the nail has been inserted, distal end first, into the intramedullary cavity, the flexible rod is pulled, thereby engendering the driver element to advance the engagement element into the cortical bone, thus keeping the intramedullary nail in position within the intramedullary cavity. |
| US08617154B2 |
Current-fed push-pull converter with passive voltage clamp
An electrosurgical generator configured to output radio frequency (RF) energy having a current-source type behavior is provided. The generator has a buck converter having a voltage source, at least one switch and an inductor. The generator also has an RF stage configured to output the RF energy. A sensor circuit configured to measure at least one parameter of the RF energy and a controller configured to receive the measured parameter from the sensor circuit and control the output of the electrosurgical generator based on the measured parameter may also be provided in the electrosurgical generator. |
| US08617153B2 |
Tunable microwave ablation probe
An electromagnetic surgical ablation probe having a tunable helical antenna element is disclosed. The probe includes a coaxial feedline having an inner conductor coaxially disposed within a dielectric, and an outer conductor coaxially disposed around the dielectric. The inner conductor and dielectric extend distally beyond a distal end of the outer conductor. A helical antenna element is operably coupled to a distal end of the inner conductor. During use, the antenna may be tuned by changing at least one dimension of the helical antenna element. Embodiments are presented wherein a dimensions of the helical antenna element is changed by state change of a shape memory alloy, by a change in temperature, by activation of a piston by fluidic pressure, by linear motion of a conical tip, and by a manual screw-type adjustment. |
| US08617152B2 |
Ablation system with feedback
Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for the ablation of tissue and treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. An ablation system includes an ablation catheter that has an array of ablation elements and a location element, an esophageal probe also including a location element, and an interface unit that provides energy to the ablation catheter. The distance between the location elements, determined by calculating means of the system, can be used by the system to set or modify one or more system parameters. |
| US08617151B2 |
System and method of controlling power delivery to a surgical instrument
A thermal surgical instrument having a system to control the delivery of power from an energy source to active element located on a tip. The system for controlling delivery to the tip may include a control algorithm which uses one or more measurements, such as tip current, SWR, and rapid changes in reflected power, to manage power without affecting cutting efficacy, and in a manner that may be imperceptible by a surgeon. The system may utilize a state machine to determine the current environment in which the tip may be in. Power delivered to the tip may be selectively managed according to a fixed power index or a repeatedly executed power profile. |
| US08617150B2 |
Reflectance-facilitated ultrasound treatment
Apparatus is provided that includes an ultrasound ablation system, which includes a reflection-facilitation element, configured to be placed at an extramyocardial site of a subject, and to provide an extramyocardial reflective region. The system further includes an ultrasound tool, which comprises at least one ultrasound transducer configured to be positioned within a heart chamber of the subject, and to ablate myocardial tissue by applying ultrasound energy to the myocardial tissue such that at least a portion of the transmitted energy is reflected by the reflective region onto the myocardial tissue. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08617148B2 |
Tissue ablation device with photoacoustic lesion formation feedback
A tissue ablation device employs one or more energy emitters (21) and one or more photoacoustic sensors (22) in a cooperative arrangement for applying a tissue ablation therapy to a tissue (60). In operation, the energy emitters (21) emit a tissue ablation beam (TA) into a target portion of the tissue (60) to form a lesion (61) therein, and alternatively or concurrently emit a photoexcitation beam (PE) into the target portion of the tissue (60) to excite a photoacoustic response from the tissue (60). The photoacoustic sensor(s) (22) sense the photoacoustic response of the tissue (60). |
| US08617143B2 |
Therapeutic agent delivery systems and devices
Devices, systems and methods for delivering pre-determined quantities of an active ingredient to a biological system are provided. In various embodiments, a device for controlled release of an active ingredient is provided, including a release aperture operably associated with a deflectable member, a base with a porous membrane substrate layer, and at least one chamber juxtaposed between the release aperture and the porous membrane layer. The chamber may contain a matrix including one or more active ingredients and an agent that expands when contacted with an aqueous solution. The device is suitable for implantation in a biological system and can be used for delayed and/or time release of specific drug dosages for various indications. |
| US08617140B2 |
System for percutaneously administering reduced pressure treatment using balloon dissection
A reduced pressure delivery system for applying reduced pressure tissue treatment to a tissue site is provided. The system includes a manifold delivery tube and a balloon having an inner space. The balloon is capable of assuming collapsed and expanded positions. The system further includes a manifold having a plurality of flow channels. The manifold is disposed within the inner space of the balloon. A sharp tip is configured to be delivered within the manifold delivery tube to puncture the balloon. |
| US08617133B2 |
Multi-chamber container
A multi-chamber container includes a medical bag made of a flexible film for storing medicines, and an outlet port mounted to the bag for discharging medicines. The bag has partition wall dividing the bag into compartments for medicines, the wall has welded portion separated by pressing to the bag, the port has extended portion extending to inside the bag and closure member integral with the port and having U-shaped profile, the member has sealed point connected to the bag such that the member is opened by expansion of the bag when the wall separates, the extended portion has recess and thin wall portion connecting to the member, the thin wall portion is broken by the expansion of the bag such that the member is pulled by the sealed point, hinges at the recess and is opened, and the sealed point is positioned away from the recess and toward the wall. |
| US08617127B2 |
Medicament injection apparatus
A medicament injection device in which the time elapsed is calculated from the end of a predetermined period during which medicament is permitted to disperse subsequent to completion of an injection stroke. The medicament injection device is particularly suitable for use by those with diabetes in which once a desired dosage of medicament has been selected and expelled from the medicament cartridge into the body of the patient, the injected medicament is allowed to disperse locally from the injection site within the patient's body before the needle arrangement is removed from the patient's body. |
| US08617118B1 |
Safety needle and method of making same
Improvements in a safety hypodermic needle and a method of making the same are disclosed. The improvements relate to a commercial embodiment of a patented safety needle and comprise a tubular member extruded from a flexible elastomeric or rubber-like polymeric material. The tubular member is extruded with two ribs extending from the outer wall of the tubular member and spaced apart 90° circumferentially. The wall of the tubular member is provided with through cuts to form a cutout on one wall portion and an elongated lever on the opposite wall portion in the 90° space between the ribs. The cuts separate the wall of the tubular member into two outwardly flexible arms, each having a single rib thereon adjacent an edge of the arm. One end of the tubular member is stretched over the needle hub of a hypodermic needle and the other end is stretched over a needle cup which houses the sharp needle point. The needle cup is provided with a needle opening through which the needle extends during use. After use the flexible arms automatically return the needle cup into a protective position housing the needle point. Latching mechanisms are provided on the hub and lever for releasably holding the arms in a “cocked” position or for permanently holding the arms in a disabled or “safe” condition to prevent inadvertent needle sticks. |
| US08617111B2 |
Rotational orientation indicating hollow needle assembly
A rotational orientation indicating hollow needle assembly having a needle, stylet, and hub. A hub sidewall has at least one external surface with at least one humanly tactilely discernible surface feature indicating the rotational relationship between the hub and the needle. Any portion of any of the assembly may bear indicia, or may be color-coded, to represent the size (gauge) of the needle, or needle type as an additional guide. In an exemplary embodiment the hub may be configured with two bevel face orientation features and two bevel orthogonal orientation features alternately spaced in a radial manner about the hub. An operator pinching the hub between a thumb and forefinger thus immediately feels these orientation features. When the assembly is rotated between the thumb and forefinger, these differing orientation features rotate as well, and the difference in tactile sensation immediately alerts the operator to the position of the needle bevel. |
| US08617104B2 |
Drug coated balloon catheter
The present invention relates to balloon catheters for treating a luminal system of a patient. Specifically, the invention relates to catheters having a flexible membrane positioned at a distal portion of the catheter, the flexible membrane retained in a substantially unexposed conformation prior to deployment. Preferably the flexible membrane is capable of delivering a therapeutic agent to a localized environment when deployed to an exposed conformation. |
| US08617103B2 |
Angled tip catheter
A catheter having improved ability to cross body passage obstructions and that more easily allows backloading of a guidewire into the lumen of the catheter is comprised of a tip, a shaft, and a lumen. The distal end of the catheter tip is oriented at an angle other than 90° to the lengthwise axis of the catheter tip. A guidewire may be easily backloaded into the elongated catheter lumen at the location of the angled catheter tip. |
| US08617102B2 |
Robotic catheter system and methods
The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises a second instrument base removably coupleable to the instrument driver and is threaded through the sheath instrument working lumen. The guide instrument also defines a guide instrument working lumen. The tool is threaded through the guide instrument working lumen. For this embodiment of the apparatus, the sheath instrument and guide instrument are independently controllable relative to each other. |
| US08617096B2 |
Ultrasound catheter devices and methods
Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Generally, an ultrasound catheter device includes an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and a distal head coupled with the transmission member and positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting occlusions. A proximal housing of the catheter device may include one or more features for dissipating heat from the ultrasound transmission wire, such as a fluid inlet aperture for passage of fluid, use of heat conductive materials in the proximal housing, surface features to increase the housing's surface area, heat conductive members disposed adjacent the transmission member and the like. Various irrigation fluids may be used, such as cooled, oxygen supersaturated or lubricious fluids. |
| US08617095B2 |
Pancreatic exocrine secretion diversion apparatus and method
A method and apparatus for treating a patient's health condition by diverting pancreatic exocrine secretions include a flow diverter of material compatible with chronic residence within a small intestine of the patient. The flow diverter has a cover end and a discharge end. The flow diverter is sized to be placed within the small intestine with the discharge end placed distally from said cover end and with said flow diverter further sized so permit passage of chyme through the small intestine and past the flow diverter. The cover end is sized to cover a discharge papilla of the pancreatic duct. The diverter is adapted to divert at least a portion of pancreatic exocrine secretion from the papilla to the distal discharge end. |
| US08617092B2 |
Stabilizing belt
A stabilizing belt for use by a person in need of assisted mobility or in recreation, the stabilizing belt comprising a pad, a belt to secure the pad to a wearer, and a pair of handles attached to the pad. The pad may be uniquely contoured to provide support and comfort for the wearer. A strap may be provided for added security and comfort. The belt may further comprise handle supports for reinforcement, a cover for durability, and a pocket for versatility. |
| US08617090B2 |
Oral care device
An oral care device suitable for use in providing a beneficial effect to an oral cavity of a mammal, which device includes means for providing reciprocation of a liquid effective for providing the beneficial effect of the oral cavity when the liquid is contacted with a plurality of surfaces thereof under conditions effective to provide the beneficial effect. |
| US08617089B2 |
Inducing tactile stimulation of musical tonal frequencies
Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures include beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers. |
| US08617088B2 |
Medical guide wire assembly
Medical guide wire assembly comprising a guide wire having a proximal end and a distal end, at least one physiology parameter sensor, and that the proximal end of the guide-wire is provided with an elongated connector part, having connection electrodes, for insertion into a connector housing provided with an elongated tubing adapted to achieve electrical and mechanical connection to the elongated connector part, the connector housing is in its turn electrically or wirelessly connectable to a physiology monitor. The guide wire is provided with a core wire running essentially along the entire guide wire. A sensor signal processing circuitry is arranged in connection with the physiological sensor and is adapted to generate a processed sensor signal in response of a sensed parameter. The sensor signal processing circuitry comprises a modulation unit arranged to modulate the processed sensor signal and to generate a modulated sensor signal. The assembly comprises exactly two micro-cables that are connected to the sensor signal processing circuitry, the micro-cables run along the guide wire and are connected to the connection electrodes of the connector part, wherein one of the core wire and the two micro-cables are actively used when transferring the processed and modulated sensor signal to the connector housing. |
| US08617086B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for full-thickness hollow organ biopsy
A method for obtaining a full thickness biopsy of the wall of a hollow organ, comprising obtaining an apparatus comprising a cannula comprising a proximal cannula end comprising a cutting edge; and a distal cannula end comprising a biased spring, the biased spring being coupled to a needle carrier and a releasable lock; and a needle disposed within the cannula and carried on the needle carrier, the needle comprising: a tip; a flange; a notch portion comprising a notch thickness; and a shaft comprising a shaft thickness; where the shaft thickness is greater than the notch thickness and the releasable lock is configured to hold the cannula in a withdrawn position relative to the needle; obtaining a patient having skin, a first wall, and a second wall; creating an incision through the skin of the patient; inserting the apparatus into the incision; advancing the apparatus through the first wall and the second wall; withdrawing the cannula relative to the needle; locking the cannula with the releasable lock; aligning the notch portion such that the notch portion straddles the second wall; releasing the releasable lock such that the cutting edge of the cannula passes completely through the second wall creating a full-thickness biopsy; and withdrawing the apparatus from the patient. |
| US08617084B2 |
Control module interface for MRI biopsy device
A biopsy system includes a biopsy device, a control module, a control module interface, at least one wireless data communication link, and an encoder. The biopsy device is operable to capture a tissue sample and includes a reusable portion and a disposable portion. The reusable portion includes an MR compatible motor. The disposable portion is adapted to be releasably joined with the reusable portion. The control module interface is configured to provide an interface between the control module and the reusable portion of the biopsy device. The at least one wireless data communication link includes a first data link configured to permit communication of data between the reusable portion of the biopsy device and the control module interface. The encoder is operationally coupled with the MR compatible motor. |
| US08617082B2 |
Heart sounds-based pacing optimization
An implantable medical device receives both heart sound and electrogram signals. A processor within the implantable medical device extracts physiologically relevant information from both the heart sound signal and the electrogram signal. Based on the extracted physiologically relevant information a set of pacing parameters is evaluated. In certain examples, the values of the pacing parameters may be changed by the implantable medical device in response to the physiologically relevant information extracted from the heart sound signal and the electrogram signal. |
| US08617079B2 |
Echogenic medical needle
There is disclosed a medical needle comprising a needle shaft that defines a longitudinal axis, a tip formed at one end of the shaft, and an ultrasonic reflector formed in an outer surface of the needle shaft. The reflector comprises a first reflector surface that is at an angle of no more than 35° to the longitudinal axis of the shaft and that faces towards the tip, and at least one additional reflector surface that forms an angle to the first reflector surface within the range of 75° to 105°, and that is substantially concave in a direction towards the first reflector surface. |
| US08617078B2 |
Ultrasonic transducer and ultrasonic diagnostic device using same
In an ultrasonic transducer comprising a first electrode, a first insulating film disposed on the first electrode, a hollow part provided above the first insulating film and disposed between surfaces above and below the hollow part, a second insulating film disposed above the hollow part, and a second electrode disposed on the second insulating film, a first conductive film disposed on a side of the surface below the hollow part and a second conductive film disposed on a side of the surface above the hollow part are provided, the first conductive film and the second conductive film are disposed so that they overlap with a region in which the surfaces above and below the hollow part contact with each other as seen from above when the transducer is driven, and they do not overlap with each other in the region as seen from above. |
| US08617077B2 |
Ultrasound application device
A high power ultrasound application device (1) is provided which comprises a hand-held applicator (3). The applicator comprises a converter element (5) for converting electric signals into ultrasound waves; a treatment head (6) configured to apply ultrasound waves from the converter element to a subject to be treated; a handle (8) for holding and manipulating the applicator; and an oscillator circuit (9) arranged in the applicator and comprising one or more electronic components (10A, 10B) configured to be energized by a power source and to generate an output signal to drive the converter element. The oscillator circuit is in thermal contact with the handle, and the handle comprises a heat conductivity and thermal coefficient such that, when manually held by an operator in normal use, a heat conductive channel is provided between at least a portion of the circuit and the operator. |
| US08617069B2 |
Health monitor
Methods and devices to detect analyte in body fluid are provided. Embodiments include enhanced analyte monitoring devices and systems. |
| US08617065B2 |
Networked system for interactive communication and remote monitoring of individuals
A system for remotely monitoring an individual. The system includes a server system for generating a script program from a set of queries. The script program is executable by a remote apparatus that displays information and/or a set of queries to the individual through a user interface. Responses to the queries that are entered through the user interface together with individual identification information are sent from the remote apparatus to the server system across a communication network. The server system also includes an automated answering service for providing a series of questions from a stored set of questions for an individual at the remote apparatus to respond to, storing responses to each provided question in the series of questions and providing a service based on the individual's response to the questions. |
| US08617060B2 |
Endoscope light source apparatus and endoscope system
An endoscope light source apparatus includes a turret provided with a first optical filter and a second optical filter for transmitting an illuminating light, an instruction section in which an operation instruction of the turret is inputted, a drive section that drives the turret, a first detector that detects a position of the turret, a first detected portion for identifying a position of the first optical filter, a second detected portion for identifying a position of the second optical filter, a second detector that optically detects a position of the first or the second detected portion, and a turret control section that outputs a drive signal to the drive section to move the turret until the first or the second detected portion is detected by the second detector and stop the turret in response to the first or the second detected portion being detected. |
| US08617058B2 |
Displaying image data from a scanner capsule
An ingestible image scanning pill captures high resolution images of the GI tract as it passes through. Images communicated externally have exact location determination. Image processing software discards duplicate information and stitches images together, line scan by line scan, to replicate a complete GI tract as if it were stretched out in a straight line. A fully linear image is displayed to a medical professional as if the GI tract had been stretched in a straight line, cut open, laid flat out on a bench for viewing—all without making any incisions in a live patient. |
| US08617057B2 |
Endoscope system
An endoscope system includes an spouting portion spouting a fluorescent agent and a cleaning liquid, a light source portion emitting excitation light and irradiation light having different spectral characteristics, an optical system transmitting the excitation light or the irradiation light to the object, an image capture portion disposed in a section inserted into the coelom and picking up fluorescence and light having a different spectrum band that are emitted from the object, a spectroscopic portion disposed in an optical pass between the image capture portion and an end of the inserted section and restraining light having the same spectrum band as the excitation light from entering the image capture portion, and a control portion allowing the light source portion to emit excitation light at least once after the spouting portion spouts the fluorescent agent onto the object and before the spouting portion spouts the cleaning liquid. |
| US08617056B2 |
Endoscope
Provided is an endoscope with a handle and an endoscope shaft connected to the handle, which has a bendable section and a rigid section, adjoining it, with a support extending in the longitudinal direction of the endoscope shaft, wherein the bendable section has a flexible outer tube the end of which facing the rigid section rests on the support, wherein a fixing sleeve is connected to the end section and covers the end of the outer tube facing the rigid section such that said end is clamped for fixing between the fixing sleeve and the support. |
| US08617052B2 |
Penile prosthetic system and pump having inlet valve with high velocity closure mechanism
A pump connected to a reservoir and a cylinder of an implantable penile prosthesis includes a pump body and an inlet valve assembly. The pump body has a pump bulb connected to the pump body, where the pump bulb is operable to move fluid between the reservoir and the cylinder. The inlet valve assembly includes a valve and a tubular sleeve that provides an exit valve seat. The inlet valve assembly is disposed in an inlet channel of the pump body and operable to allow a portion of fluid to be drawn from the reservoir through the tubular sleeve and through the inlet channel to the pump bulb for delivery into the cylinder. |
| US08617051B2 |
Cardiac support device delivery tool with release mechanism
An apparatus for placing a cardiac support device (CSD) on a heart. The apparatus includes a body, a deployment mechanism on the body for supporting the CSD in an open position for placement on the heart, and a release mechanism coupled to the deployment mechanism for releasably mounting the CSD to the deployment mechanism. The release mechanism includes a release element for releasably engaging the CSD, and a release actuator coupled to the release element for actuating the release element to release the CSD. |
| US08617048B2 |
System for implanting an implant and method thereof
A system for implanting an implant and method thereof is disclosed. In general overview, the system includes an implant, an envelope enclosing the implant, a delivery assembly and an attachment piece for attaching the envelope or implant to the delivery assembly. The envelope may include a drug coating, positioning aids, and means to ease envelope removal. In one embodiment, the delivery assembly is employed for implant and/or envelope delivery inside the patient's body. In another embodiment, the delivery assembly and an attachment piece are employed to deliver the implant or the envelope inside the patient's body. |
| US08617041B2 |
Automated sample workcell and method of operation
Illustrative embodiments of automated sample workcells and methods of operation are disclosed. The methods may include receiving a first plurality of samples, each of the first plurality of samples being linked to a requested analysis selected from among a plurality of analysis types; assigning at least one centrifugation parameter to each of the first plurality of samples in response to the requested analysis linked to that sample; loading a second plurality of samples into a centrifuge, the second plurality of samples being selected from among the first plurality of samples and comprising samples that have been assigned at least two different centrifugation parameters; determining a centrifugation parameter of highest centrifugation intensity from among the at least two different centrifugation parameters assigned to samples in the second plurality of samples; and centrifuging the second plurality of samples according to a centrifugation protocol comprising the centrifugation parameter of highest centrifugation intensity. |
| US08617040B2 |
Folding apparatus and method of folding a product
An apparatus for folding products has a conveying member configured to hold a first portion and a second portion of the product and to release the first portion while continuing to hold the second portion. The conveying member is configured to convey the product at a conveying speed. A folding assembly is disposed adjacent the conveying member. The folding assembly is configured to receive the first portion of the product from the conveying member while moving generally at the conveying speed, to decelerate relative to the conveying member while holding the first portion thereto thereby causing the product to fold about the fold axis, and to place the first portion of the product into contact with the second portion such that the first portion overlies the second portion. |
| US08617037B2 |
Overspeed trainer system
A single-handed overspeed trainer system that detachably tethers an athlete to a trainer through a substantially quiet, non-hook and loop material, release structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the athlete wears a belt with a substantially rigid loop extending therefrom. The trainer holds one end of a tether that contains a retractable pin toward its opposite end. The pin holds the rigid loop of the belt until the pin is retracted by the trainer, preferably when the tether's handle is released by the trainer. |
| US08617035B2 |
Physical therapy rehabilitation apparatus
An exercise device, comprising an elongate member which has a pair of end regions with a pair of opposed end portions. Each end portion has a body wherein each body has one of a pair of opposed first end faces and at least a pair of first weighted segments. Each of the weighted segments is removably attachable to the elongate member and/or a corresponding end portion in an operative position. Each first weighted segment also has a second end face which abuts the first end face in the operative position. Each body has a first exterior surface region including and anchor portion for attaching thereto at least one elongate resilient portion at one end of the resilient portion and to a fixed object at the opposing end. A method for using the device is also provided. |
| US08617034B2 |
Rotary type punching exerciser
A rotary type punching exerciser is disclosed. The rotary type punching exerciser includes a punchball, a support arm to support the punchball, the support arm being adjustable in length in a direction in which one end of the support arm extends, to enable adjustment of a punching cycle of the punchball, a support bar to support the other end of the support arm such that the support arm is rotatable by 360 degrees, the support bar being adjustable in length in a vertical direction, to enable adjustment of a punching height of the punchball, and a pedestal to support the support bar. With the use of the rotary type punching exerciser, a user can anticipate a movement path of the punchball, which allows the user to easily successively punch the punchball. |
| US08617033B2 |
Exercise apparatuses and methods of using the same
An exercise apparatus includes a pair of step-up apparatuses wearable on feet of a user. Each step-up apparatus is configurable between an expanded configuration and a compressed configuration to simulate a selected motion when the user wearing the pair of step-up apparatuses travels by foot. One of the step-up apparatuses moves towards the expanded configuration while the other step-up apparatus moves towards the compressed configuration. |
| US08617021B1 |
Multiple speed transmission
A family of transmissions produces at least eight forward and one reverse speed ratio by selective engagement of various combinations of three clutches or brakes. Each transmission includes two fixed gearing arrangements that establish fixed speed relationships between an input shaft, and output shaft, and four other elements. Specifically, the input shaft is constrained to rotate at a speed between that of the first and second elements while the output shaft is constrained to rotate at a speed between that of the third and fourth elements. Additional gearing, clutches, and brakes establish specified selective speed relationships among these elements. |
| US08617016B2 |
Low noise pulley
Low-noise pulleys and methods of constructing low-noise pulleys are disclosed. In a first aspect, first and second pluralities of arms extending radially outward from the outer hub to the outer rim are angularly offset from each other about the axis of rotation to eliminate symmetry across the lateral midline of the pulley. In a second aspect, the radially outermost ends of a plurality of arms are arcuately spaced apart according to a pitch sequence describing a pseudo-random pattern of relative spacings so as to reduce or eliminate rotational symmetry of the pulley. In a third aspect, features of the first and second aspects are combined, and in one embodiment, first and second pluralities of arms are, respectively, approximately oppositely canted so as to vary the arcuate spacings of the laterally outermost ends of the arms. |
| US08617011B2 |
Sport ball with indented casing
A sport ball may incorporate a casing that includes a plurality of joined panels. At least one of the panels may have a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer. The casing defines at least one indentation in the exterior surface, and the first layer is bonded to the third layer adjacent to the indentation. In some configurations, the casing may also define at least one indentations in a surface of the third layer, which may correspond in location with the indentation in the exterior surface. Additionally, the sport ball may include an intermediate structure and a bladder located within the casing. |
| US08617008B2 |
Training devices for trajectory-based sports
Methods and apparatus related to improving player performance for trajectory-based sports are described. In particular, sporting devices are described that can be utilized to improve player performance in basketball. The sporting devices can include a camera-based system configured to capture and analyze the trajectory of a shot taken by a player. The camera-based system can be configured to provide feedback that allows a player to optimize the trajectory mechanics associated with shooting a basketball. In one embodiment, the camera-based system can be used in conjunction with a training aid that is attached to a basketball rim. The training aid can be configured to improve the trajectory mechanics of individuals utilizing the modified basketball rim to practice their shooting. |
| US08617001B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head has a main body including a top portion, a bottom portion opposite the top portion, a striking face, a rear portion opposite the striking face. The striking face has a striking face plane and a striking face outer periphery that is coplanar with the striking face plane. The striking face outer periphery has an outer periphery heel portion, an outer periphery toe portion opposite the outer periphery heel portion, an outer periphery top portion, and an outer periphery bottom portion opposite the outer periphery top portion. The striking face also has a recess extending rearward from the striking face plane, and the recess includes a recess periphery coplanar with the striking face plane. The striking face further has an insert disposed within the recess. The striking face additionally has a minimum periphery width separating the striking face outer periphery and the recess periphery. The periphery width is no greater than 1.25 mm. |
| US08617000B2 |
Metal wood golf club head having externally protruding weights
A metal wood golf club with externally protruding weights that improves the performance of a golf club head is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention discloses a metal wood type golf club head that is capable of pushing the boundaries of performance all while maintaining the size and shape of a classic pear shaped golf club. |
| US08616999B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head with an increased moment of inertia (MOI) about the X axis and the Z axis. Generally, the MOI about the Z axis is at least about 4400 g·cm2 and the MOI about the X axis is at least about 2500 g·cm2. The radius of the bulge of the club face is increased while the radius of the roll is reduced to compensate for the gear effect produced by the increased MOIs. The bulge curvature is generally between about 0.016 cm−1 and about 0.028 cm−1, and the roll curvature is between about 0.033 cm−1 and about 0.066 cm−1. The roll curvature is greater than the bulge curvature. |
| US08616994B2 |
Multi-function golf tool
A multi-purpose golf accessory that incorporates various golfing related functions is disclosed. The golf accessory may comprise a retractable divot fork, a ball marker, a level, a cleaning pad, a nylon brush, a stroke counter, or any combination thereof. The divot fork may be attached to a brush head that comprises one or more brushes, an abrasive brush, an abrasive surface for maintaining golf balls, or any combination thereof. The brush head may be attached within a brush head cover that comprises a counter, tee holders, therapeutic magnets, or any combination thereof. The multi-purpose golf accessory and the brush cover are configured to be attachable to a golfer's belt, other piece of clothing, or a golf bag for convenient carry. |
| US08616987B2 |
Cross groove type constant velocity joint
A constant velocity joint for a drive system includes: an outer joint member and an inner joint member, each having a plurality of ball grooves, the ball grooves consisting of a first group of grooves of a skewed groove shape with a first skew angle other than zero and alternately arranged in opposite directions relative to an axis of rotation of the outer and inner joint members, and a second group of grooves of a skewed groove shape with a second skew angle other than zero and alternately arranged in opposite directions relative to an axis of rotation of the outer and inner joint members, the second skew angle less than the first skew angle. In addition to the differentiated skew angles, the contact angles of the balls in the first and second group of grooves may also be differentiated. |
| US08616981B1 |
Systems, methods, and devices for playing wagering games with location-triggered game features
Gaming devices, gaming systems, methods of conducting wagering games, and computer programs for executing wagering games are disclosed. A gaming system for playing a wagering game is disclosed which includes one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by at least one of the processors, cause the gaming system to: receive an indication of a physical location of a mobile computing device; determine if the physical location of the mobile computing device corresponds to or is within a predetermined proximity of a designated hotspot location; and, if so, determine a location-based gaming feature associated with the designated hotspot location and automatically triggering the location-based gaming feature without requiring an input from a user of the mobile computing device. Automatically triggering the location-based gaming feature includes, in some embodiments, initiating play of at least a portion of the wagering game. |
| US08616978B2 |
Managing wagering game applications and events
A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include managing multiple instances of gaming applications associated with a wagering game client device and determining event data from the multiple instances of gaming applications. The operations can further include aggregating the event data into an event repository and determining that a requesting application requests some portion of the event data. The operations can further include opening a communication channel between the event data repository and the requesting application, formatting the requested portion of the event data in a format understandable to the requesting application, and communicating the requested portion of the event data to the requesting application via the communication channel. The operations can further include receiving response event data from the requesting application and presenting the response event data on a presentation device associated with the wagering game client device. |
| US08616977B2 |
Game performance determination by incremental revenue
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods of determining the performance of a gaming device by analyzing the incremental revenue generated by the gaming device. This method may include identifying an analysis period, recording game performance data for a set of gaming devices and a test gaming device during the analysis period, and comparing the recorded data to historical gaming data for the set of gaming devices. Some examples of this method may also include developing parameters for the analysis period and using those developed parameters to normalize the recorded game data for the analysis period prior to comparing the recorded data to the historical gaming data. |
| US08616970B2 |
System and method for managing a multiplicity of text messages in an online game
A system and method for providing text of interest to a player from text messages in an online game is provided. A player profile for a player participating in an online game is maintained. Text messages from sources in the online game are received substantially simultaneously within a buffer for a limited text area of a display during an online game session. A main conversation in which the player is involved with one of the sources from the text messages is identified and removed from the buffer. The text messages in the buffer not identified as the main conversation are analyzed for text of interest to the player included in the player profile. The text of interest is provided in the limited text area in the display interspersed with the main conversation concurrent to receipt of each text message within which the text of interest was included. |
| US08616969B2 |
Gaming machine with LED display that is an integral part of game play
An embodiment of a gaming machine has at least two gaming states; and an LED (light emitting diode) display having at least one of two colors respectively associated with the at least two gaming states. The at least two colors may be esthetic or mood producing colors that increase game play. The LED display may emit a color of the at least two colors that is associated with a current gaming state of the at least two gaming states. The LED display may emit a color of the at least two colors or an animation that may be part of the current game play of the gaming machine. |
| US08616965B2 |
Gaming machine accepting side bet and playing method thereof
A gaming machine executing the processing of (A) accepting an input for placing a normal bet; (B) accepting an input for placing a side bet different from the normal bet, (C) starting a card game and displaying a player initial card on a display; (D) determining a result of a side game based on the player initial card, when a side bet has been placed; and (E) offering a first payout based on the result of the side game, advancing the card game to determine a result of the card game, and offering a second payout based on the result of the card game. |
| US08616959B2 |
Server based gaming system having system triggered loyalty award sequences
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming tables. In one embodiment, the gaming system provides players with one or more loyalty incentives, such as one or more loyalty awards, utilizing one or more loyalty incentive award sequences. In one embodiment, the gaming system determines a loyalty award to provide to a player and then determines an appropriate loyalty award sequence to utilize to provide the player the determined loyalty award, wherein the loyalty award sequence is determined based on the individual gaming table at which that the player is currently playing. |
| US08616956B2 |
Gaming system with play enhancement icons
A gaming system comprises a wager input device for receiving a wager and a display for displaying a wagering game having a plurality of reels comprised of a plurality of symbols. A controller operates to (i) detect receipt of the wager; (ii) activate a play of the wagering game by spinning the reels on the display; (iii) display at least one play enhancement icon on the display; (iv) cause the spinning reels to stop and the display to display a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game; and (v) enhance the randomly selected outcome of the wagering game in response to the at least one play enhancement icon on the display at any time including at least one of before spinning the reels on the display, during spinning the reels on the display, and after spinning the reels on the display. |
| US08616955B2 |
Gaming machine with runs of symbols populated with identical symbols during spinning of reels
A gaming machine comprising a processor configured to execute a game displaying a matrix of symbol containing elements having a plurality of rows and a plurality columns; at least one column of said matrix comprising a portion of a simulated rotatable reel of a plurality of said symbol containing elements; said simulated rotatable reel comprising sections of symbol containing elements displaying a plurality of symbols; said simulated rotatable reel including at least one section in which a consecutive run of two or more of said symbol containing elements is populated by a first identical symbol so that, said first identical symbol being used for a first play of said game, a second identical symbol being randomly selected, the first identical symbol being replaced by the second identical symbol in said consecutive run of two or more of said symbol containing elements, said second identical symbol being used for a second play of said game. |
| US08616950B2 |
Bonus game having bonus pots for card hands obtained by player
In a gaming machine having virtual reels, conventional instant wins are awarded as well as virtual playing cards. In one embodiment, the cards are dealt only if a special symbol is displayed on the stopped reels. In another embodiment, cards are dealt only during a bonus round. Dealt playing cards are accumulated until the player has a full hand of cards. A different bonus pot is accumulated for various types of poker hands achievable. The pots may be progressively increased based on a percentage of wagers made in a network of gaming machines. After the player is dealt the full set of cards, the best poker hand is determined, and the associated pot is awarded to the player. The pot is then set at a starting value. The bonus game is then terminated. The player is motivated to continue playing to complete a hand and win a large pot. |
| US08616938B1 |
Hand-held blade sharpener
A battery-powered, hand-held blade sharpener features a self-adjusting set of guide rollers which widen to accommodate the thickness of the blade being sharpened. First and second semi-circular face plates mount sets of guide rollers, one of the face plates is mounted for pivotal movement and sprig-biased to a “closed jaw” position which the thickness of the blade opens as necessary. |
| US08616934B1 |
Dart tip device
An alternative dart tip device comprising first and second impact plates, the impact plates being positioned parallel to each other and the second impact plate being attached to a dart; a connecting means for connecting the impact plates and allowing the impact plates to be moved between a contact position and a non-contact position; a cap attachable to a top surface of the bottom impact plate; and a shaft having a first end attached to a bottom surface of the first impact plate and a second end extending downwardly toward the cap; wherein when the dart is thrown and impacts an object, the shaft penetrates the cap which causes the cap to explode. |
| US08616933B2 |
Dynamo powered toy
A toy is provided that has a dynamo for converting manual movement into an electrical charge for the dynamo located within a housing. A miniature vehicle is induced to locomote through receipt of the electrical charge. A dock is provided for selectively creating an electrical coupling of the vehicle to the dynamo to transfer the electrical charge and decoupling to allow the vehicle to locomote. A charge storage device and an electrical motor in the vehicle allow for prolonged vehicle locomotion separate from the charge transfer by the dynamo. A toy is also provided that has a dynamo for converting manual movement into an electrical charge, the dynamo located within a housing. The dynamo transfers an electrical charge to a wheeled miniature vehicle through an electrically conductive circuit about which the vehicle travels. Additional amusement functions of LED light output or speaker auditory output are optionally provided. |
| US08616929B2 |
Vessel propulsion apparatus
A vessel propulsion apparatus includes a second shaft that is inserted in a first driven gear and in a second driven gear, that is connected to a dog clutch, and that is arranged to undergo a thrust. The vessel propulsion apparatus includes a first bearing disposed between the first driven gear and the second shaft, a second bearing disposed between the second driven gear and the second shaft, and a case to which a thrust applied to the second shaft is transmitted via the first bearing and the first driven gear or via the second bearing and the second driven gear. The vessel propulsion apparatus includes an adjusting member disposed between the second shaft and at least one of the first driven gear and the second driven gear and arranged to apply a preload onto the first bearing and the second bearing. |
| US08616926B2 |
Solid wire terminal
A solid wire terminal (200) provides at least six locations of contact with respect to the electrical engagement of a conductive solid wire (232) with the solid wire terminal (200). The terminal (200) includes an electrical receptacle (202) having elongated upper arms (208) connected by an upper bridge (214), and elongated lower arms (216) connected by a lower bridge (222). The arms (208, 216) include half cylinder sections (224, 226) with inner surfaces (228, 230) which contact the conductive solid wire (232) when inserted between the upper bridge (214) and lower bridge (222). The solid wire terminal (200) is thus electrically connected to the conductive solid wire (232) along a longitudinal axis of the solid wire (232). |
| US08616923B2 |
Electrical connectors having open-ended conductors
Electrical connector including a plurality of mating conductors. Each of the mating conductors extends between an engagement portion and an interior portion. The engagement portions of the mating conductors are configured to engage contacts of the mating connector. The engagement portions are located proximate to one another at a first nodal region. The interior portions are located proximate to one another at a second nodal region. The electrical connector also includes a first open-ended conductor electrically connected to the engagement portion of a first mating conductor of the plurality of mating conductors and extending from the first nodal region. The electrical connector also includes a second open-ended conductor electrically connected to the interior portion of a second mating conductor of the plurality of mating conductors and extending from the second nodal region. The first open-ended conductor is capacitively coupled to the second open-ended conductor. |
| US08616919B2 |
Attachment system for electrical connector
An electrical connector includes at least one leadframe assembly, including a leadframe housing that carries a plurality of electrical contacts, and an external component, such as an electrically conductive plate, configured to be attached to the leadframe housing. The leadframe assembly includes an attachment system that includes an alignment assembly configured to align the electrically conductive plate with the leadframe housing as the plate is attached to the housing, and an attachment assembly that can be mated to attach the plate to the leadframe housing. The attachment assembly can be provided without creating any openings in the plate. |
| US08616917B2 |
Panel module and power input connector fixing structure thereof
A fixing structure used for fixing a power input connector on a bracket is provided. The power input connector includes a socket body and a notch part. The fixing structure includes first and second fixing elements. The first fixing element has a first coupling portion and an opening. The second fixing element has a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion, and a supporting portion connected with the notch part to fix the power input connector. The first fixing element covers the second fixing element and the power input connector, and the socket body is exposed from the opening. First and second fixing elements are fixed on the bracket to provide a first supporting force to balance a first force pulling the power input connector away from the bracket, and a second supporting force to balance a second force pressing the power input connector towards the bracket. |
| US08616915B2 |
Wire-free, unibody jumper
Wire-free, unibody jumpers that may be used with crimp terminals. These jumpers may connect two or more adjacent or nearby crimp terminal openings in a plug housing. One example may provide a jumper that is formed from a single piece of metal or other conductive material. In this example, a form may be stamped from a sheet of metal or other conductive material. A jumper may be made by folding or bending the stamped form. The jumper may then be inserted into two or more adjacent or nearby crimp terminal openings in a crimp terminal plug housing. In various examples, the folding or bending of the stamped form may be done in various ways. |
| US08616913B2 |
Systems and methods of coupling electrical conductors
Systems and methods are provided fir coupling a plurality of electrical conductors, such as wires. A connector is provided including a plurality of bores or channels formed into a preferably unitary connector body, wherein at least a portion of one or more of the bores or channels intersects at least a portion of another of the bores or channels. The bores or channels are preferably formed along bore axes, which may be coplanar. A method according to the present invention includes inserting an insulated electrical conductor into a connector body and rotating a conductive rotational member threaded into a bore or channel formed in a connector body so as to electrically contact the conductive portion of the insulated conductor and at least one other electrically conductive surface. |
| US08616912B1 |
Electrical outlet and a cord releasably mounted to a ladder
An electrical outlet assembly includes a housing that has a back panel and a perimeter wall coupled to and extending from a perimeter edge of the back panel. The perimeter wall has a distal edge relative to the back panel. The distal edge of the perimeter wall defines an outlet opening into the interior of the housing. An electrical outlet is positioned within the interior of the housing. An electrical cord is electrically coupled to the electrical outlet. The electrical cord extends from the housing so that a medial section of the electrical cord is positioned outside of the interior of the housing. A fastener is coupled to the housing. The fastener couples the housing to the ladder. A plurality of straps is coupled to the medial section of the electrical cord. Each of the straps is configured for coupling the electrical cord to the ladder. |
| US08616911B2 |
Power line connector apparatus including a rib and resilient retaining ring
A power line connector apparatus and a method of coupling a first power line connector to a second power line connector are provided. Embodiments include a first power line connector comprising an outer casing that includes a groove that forms a recessed space annularly around the outer casing, the groove opening radially outward from the outer casing; a second power line connector comprising an electrical contact housing including a rib that forms a recessed space annularly along the inner walls of the electrical contact housing; and a resilient retaining ring located at least partially within the recessed space of the groove, the ring compressing against the inner walls of the electrical contact housing as the first connector is inserted into the electrical contact housing of the second connector, the ring uncompressing within the recessed space of the rib as the first connector is fully inserted into the housing. |
| US08616908B2 |
Electrical connector with a cap with a sacrificial conductor
An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body for receiving a power cable and having at least one T-end having a bore therein. An adapter is configured to be received within the bore in the at least one T-end, wherein the adapter comprises a conductive core coupled to the power cable. A sacrificial cap is configured to engage a portion of the adapter extending from the at least one T-end. The sacrificial cap comprises a sacrificial conductor that is coupled to the conductive core of the adapter and configured to be cut through to confirm that the electrical connector assembly has been de-energized. |
| US08616901B2 |
Circuit board assembly, board device, and method for assembling circuit board assembly
The invention has an object to provide a circuit board assembly for a circuit board, the circuit board assembly having a contact and a housing. The housing includes a contact holding plate having a receiving passageway located in a surface of the contact holding plate disposed perpendicular to a surface of a circuit board, and a contact securing portion. The contact includes a press-fit into and held by the contact securing portion of the receiving passageway, and having a board insertion portion positioned perpendicular to the surface of the circuit board inserted into the receiving passageway from a side of the board insertion portion with respect to the contact holding plate, and a housing insertion section extending in parallel to the surface of the circuit board inserted into the receiving passageway from a side of the board insertion portion with respect to the contact holding plate. |
| US08616900B1 |
Disk drive having a top cover with an electrical connector latch
A disk drive, for electrical coupling to a host electrical connector of a host electronic system, includes a disk drive base. A top cover is attached to the disk drive base and a disk is rotably attached to the disk drive base. The top cover and the disk drive base together enclose the disk. A disk drive printed circuit board is also attached to the disk drive base. The disk drive printed circuit board includes a disk drive electrical connector. The disk drive electrical connector is configured to mate with the host electrical connector. The top cover includes a latching feature to retain the host electrical connector. |
| US08616899B1 |
Contact type of electric connection building block
A contact type of electric connection building block includes a base, electric connection posts and a top cover. The base includes recesses defined in a bottom thereof and a circuit board disposed on a top thereof. First and second connection circuits and an electronic component are formed on the circuit board. The electric connection posts are mounted on the circuit board. Each electric connection post has an exterior sheath and an interior post disposed in and insulated from the exterior sheath. The exterior sheath and the interior post each is made of a conductive material and includes a contact portion. The contact portions of the exterior sheath and the interior post are located at the same level and respectively connected with the first and second connection circuits. The top cover is mounted on the base. |
| US08616897B2 |
Slip-ring unit
A slip-ring unit includes a first and a second group of components which are arranged in a manner allowing rotation relative to each other about an axis. The first group of components includes a slip-ring brush which is secured to a holder that is mounted between two components which are offset relative to each other in the direction of the axis. The second group of components includes at least one slip ring. The holder and at least one of the components each have an effective area by which a form-locking connection is produced between the holder and the at least one component. Forces having a directional component parallel to the axis are transmittable by the form-locking connection. |
| US08616895B2 |
System and method for monitoring a physiological condition
The invention describes a system and method for allowing an individual to view an educational program remotely. In the preferred embodiment, the invention is used as a healthcare education system. The system comprises a file server which is connected to a database holding the educational programs. A remote interface connected to the file server allows an administrator to assign educational programs to an individual. The remote interface also includes a memory card writer which records the individual's identification code and the address of the file server on a memory card. The individual is given the memory card to take home. When the individual places the memory card in the memory card reader of a multimedia processor, the processor uses the file server address to automatically connect to the file server. The file server receives the individual's identification code from the processor, retrieves the corresponding educational program from the database, and sends the program to the processor to be displayed. After the individual has watched the educational program, completion data in the form of the date and time the program was watched, or the individual's response, is sent from the multimedia processor to the file server. The completion data can then be viewed by the administrator on a report screen. |
| US08616888B2 |
Defining an insertion indicator
Methods and apparatuses to define an insertion indicator on a Braille device are described. Information about an insertion indicator at a location on a display device is received. An output associated with the insertion indicator is provided to a Braille device. The output to the Braille device reproduces the location of the insertion indicator on the display device. The output associated with the insertion indicator may be provided to at least two cells of the Braille device. The output to the Braille device may be provided to raise a first dot of a first Braille cell on the Braille device, wherein the first Braille cell corresponds to a second location that precedes the first location on the display device. A Braille caption panel may be displayed on a display device, the Braille caption panel includes a simulation of the output associated with the insertion indicator on the Braille device. |
| US08616884B1 |
Integrated live and simulation environment system for an aircraft
A method and apparatus for training in an aircraft. A display system is associated with an aircraft. A sensor system is associated with the aircraft. A training processor is configured to be connected to the aircraft. The training processor is configured generate constructive data for a number of simulation objects and generate simulation sensor data using the constructive data. The training processor is further configured to present the simulation sensor data with live sensor data generated by the sensor system for an aircraft on a display system in the aircraft. |
| US08616883B2 |
Simulation control system for an integrated live and simulation environment for an aircraft
A method and apparatus for managing a simulation. Information about the simulation is received over a wireless communications link with a computer system in an aircraft. The information is received during running of the simulation and identifies a performance of the computer system running the simulation. The running of the simulation is controlled based on the performance of the computer system. |
| US08616875B2 |
Light guide plate stamp and method of manufacturing the same
A stamp includes a metal supporting layer, a pattern forming layer and an adhesive layer. The metal supporting layer has a first thermal conductivity. The pattern forming layer is disposed on the metal supporting layer and has a surface with a molding pattern formed thereon. The adhesive layer is disposed between the metal supporting layer and the pattern forming layer to couple the pattern forming layer to the metal supporting layer, and has a second thermal conductivity lower than the first thermal conductivity. Thus, strength of the stamp may be improved, and deformation of the stamp during the process of manufacturing a light guide plate may be reduced or prevented. |
| US08616874B2 |
Pattern transferring apparatus and pattern transferring method
A pattern transferring apparatus is disclosed which can prevent damage to a transferred pattern and realize fast mold release regardless of the type of resist. The pattern transferring apparatus transfers a pattern formed on a mold to an object by bringing the mold into contact with the apparatus has a deformer which causes deformation in the mold for releasing the mold from the object. The apparatus transfers a pattern formed on a mold to a photo-curing resin by bringing the mold into contact with the photo-curing resin and applying light thereto to cure the photo-curing resin. The apparatus has an optical system which applies light at an irradiation light intensity to a non-transfer area other than a transfer area where the pattern is to be transferred in the photo-curing resin, the intensity being different from an irradiation light intensity of light applied to the transfer area. |
| US08616872B2 |
Three-dimensional modeling apparatus, method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object and three-dimensional object
Provided is a three-dimensional modeling apparatus including a supply mechanism, a deposition area, a variable mechanism, a discharge mechanism, and a control means. The supply mechanism supplies a powder material. In the deposition area, the supplied powder material is deposited. The variable mechanism varies a volume of the deposition area per a predetermined layer thickness, and thus the powder material is deposited per the predetermined layer thickness in the deposition area. The discharge mechanism discharges liquid for forming a three-dimensional object to the deposited powder material, the liquid being capable of hardening the powder material. The control means causes the discharge mechanism to discharge the liquid to the powder material, to thereby form a main body being an object being as a target to be modeled and a frame body being an object to be formed in a periphery of the main body, of the three-dimensional object. |
| US08616869B2 |
In-mold labeling apparatus and method
An in-mold labeling apparatus for an injection-molded product includes a label magazine, a handling tool, an injection mold, and a controller. The injection mold has a suction port disposed in the mold cavity. A pin may be fixedly or movably disposed in the suction port. A method of in-mold labeling an injection-molded product includes applying a static charge to the label using the handling tool, activating the suction port in the mold cavity, deactivating a suction port of the handling tool, and activating the injection molding. |
| US08616868B2 |
Sealant mold fixture for a domed cap
A sealant mold for sealing a domed nutplate unit particularly at a lower region about an adhesively attached interface with a substrate such as an aircraft fuel tank wall. The sealant mold is formed from a lightweight plastic material, and includes an inner cap in combination with an outer skirt to define a gap or trough for receiving and supporting a metered quantity of a curable sealant material. The mold is fitted onto a dome of the nutplate unit with an inner cap inboard edge landed onto a dome shoulder. The outer skirt is then displaced downwardly about the landed inner cap to extrude the sealant material about the lower region of the nutplate unit particularly such as the adhesively attached interface with the substrate. The sealant material is allowed to cure, after which the sealant mold can be stripped quickly and easily from the cured sealant material. |
| US08616866B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing cutting inserts
A method for manufacturing a cutting insert green body from a sinterable powder, a tool set for manufacturing the cutting insert green body by that method and the green body manufactured by the tool set. The tool set has axially moving upper and lower punches and radially moving side punches. The side punches move slidably on die rods. The side punches and die rods move in channels in a base body on which a cover plate is mounted. The upper and lower punches move in through holes in the cover plate and base body, respectively. The die rods are stationary during compaction of the sinterable powder. The upper, lower and side punches form surfaces of the green body and the die rods form some of the edges of the green body. The green body can have undercuts and the edges formed by the die rods can be non-linear in shape. |
| US08616864B2 |
Axial flow fan
An axial flow fan provided herein allows for a wide range of selection for placement of the fan and wiring of the lead wires. The axial flow fan includes a first lead wire engaging portion 17 configured to be engaged with a plurality of lead wires 15 such that the lead wires are pulled out therefrom into an outer space OS defined between a first flange 21 and a second flange 23 of a fan housing 3, a second lead wire engaging portion 19 configured to be engaged with the plurality of lead wires 15 such that the lead wires, which have been engaged with the first lead wire engaging portion 17 and pulled out therefrom into the outer space OS, are then pulled out toward the other side in the axial direction where the second flange 23 is positioned, and a third lead wire engaging portion 27 configured to be engaged with the plurality of lead wires 15 such that the lead wires, which have been engaged with the first lead wire engaging portion 17 and pulled out therefrom into the outer space OS, are then pulled out in the axial direction toward one side where the first flange 21 is positioned. The third lead wire engaging portion 27 is formed in the first flange 21 at a given distance from the first lead wire engaging portion 17. |
| US08616859B2 |
Fan
The invention relates to a fan, particularly for cooling an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, having an attachment unit, an electric drive motor, and a fan wheel rotating about the fan axis, wherein the attachment unit has a frame, from which bars protrude that cross through an air opening, said bars carrying an attachment element serving to attach the drive motor. The invention proposes that each of the bars (6) have a cross-sectional contour, wherein at least one cross bar (18) extending laterally in the direction of the fan axis (9) is configured between end regions (14, 15) of the bar (6) extending in the direction of the fan axis (9), defining a bar width (b). |
| US08616858B2 |
Dual positive displacement pump pressure regulating control
A hydraulic system, including fluid flow generated by a primary pump and a secondary pump, utilizes a regulator control assembly to control fluid flow from each of the primary and secondary pumps such that a desired fluid flow and pressure is maintained at the outlet for varying actuator demands. The regulator control assembly controls the transition from using only the primary pump, to using both the primary and secondary pumps to provide a desired fluid flow and pressure through the outlet to the actuator. |
| US08616854B2 |
Nose cone assembly
A nose cone assembly for a gas turbine engine is disclosed herein. The nose cone assembly includes a spinner body having an outer surface and extending axially between an upstream portion generally tapering to a truncated first end and a base portion generally cylindrical in cross-section at a second end. The nose cone assembly also includes a flange positioned radially inward of the outer surface and axially adjacent to the base portion. The nose cone assembly also includes a plurality of first apertures defined in the flange for removably connecting the spinner body to a fan of a gas turbine engine. The nose cone assembly also includes a second aperture defined in the spinner body through which all of the plurality of first apertures can be accessed for attaching or removing the nose cone assembly from the fan. |
| US08616852B2 |
Welding repair method of an integrally bladed rotor
A method of repairing a rotor blade, for example on an integrally bladed rotor, includes preparing a surface on a damaged area of the blade. The blade has first and second airfoil surfaces adjoining the prepared surface that are spaced apart a distance. An edge of a patch abuts the prepared surface to provide a weld interface defining a welding plane. First and second cover sheets respectively overlap the first and second airfoil surfaces. The first and second cover sheets adjoin the edge and the first and second airfoil surfaces. The blade, patch and first and second cover sheets are welded along the welding plane providing a welded joint at the weld interface. The first and second cover sheets are substantially unsecured to the first and second airfoil surfaces subsequent to the welding operation. |
| US08616847B2 |
Abrasive coated preform for a turbine blade tip
A squealer tip preform having a coating including an abrasive is disclosed. The squealer tip may be separately formed from a generally elongated blade to which the squealer tip preform is configured to be attached. The squealer tip may be configured such that an outer surface of the squealer tip preform is generally aligned with an outer side surface of the turbine blade defining a cross-sectional profile of the turbine blade. Forming the squealer tip preform with an abrasive coating separate from the turbine blade greatly reduces costs and improves efficiency as compared with conventional systems. |
| US08616845B1 |
Turbine blade with tip cooling circuit
A turbine rotor blade with a forward flowing serpentine flow cooling circuit in the airfoil and a serpentine flow cooling circuit formed within the blade tip formed in series to provide cooling air flow through the airfoil and then through the blade tip. Cooling air from the airfoil serpentine circuit is bled off to provide cooling of the trailing edge region through T/E exit slots. The tip serpentine cooling circuit includes legs on the pressure and suction side walls with tip edge cooling holes to provide layers of film cooling air for the blade tip rails. A separate cooling air circuit is used in the leading edge region to provide convection cooling, impingement cooling and film cooling for the leading edge region. |
| US08616843B2 |
Turbo machinery
Turbo machinery comprising an impeller and a diffuser positioned on a downstream side of the impeller that a channel wall surface of the diffuser is composed of a pair of a shroud side diffuser plate and a hub side diffuser plate which surface each other and a channel width is formed so as to be increased downstream, characterized in that guide vanes in a circular arc shape lower in height than the channel width are installed in a line of a plurality of vanes on both channel walls of the shroud side diffuser plate and hub side diffuser plate of the diffuser, and a total of vane heights of the two guide vanes at an outlet of the diffuser is set so as to be within a range from 30 to 70% of the channel width at the outlet of the diffuser. |
| US08616838B2 |
Systems and apparatus relating to compressor operation in turbine engines
A compressor of a turbine engine, the compressor including stator blades with shrouds, the shrouds being surrounded, at least in part, by rotating structure and forming a shroud cavity therebetween, the compressor including: a plurality of tangential flow inducers disposed within the shroud cavity; wherein each tangential flow inducer comprises a surface disposed on the rotating structure that is configured such that, when rotated, induces a tangential directional component to and/or increases the velocity of a flow of leakage exiting the shroud cavity. |
| US08616836B2 |
Diffuser using detachable vanes
A system, in certain embodiments, includes a plurality of detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes attached to a diffuser plate of a centrifugal compressor. In certain embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may be attached to the diffuser plate using threaded fasteners. In addition, dowel pins may be used to align the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes with respect to the diffuser plate. However, in other embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include a tab configured to fit securely within a groove in the diffuser plate. In addition, the tabs of the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include indentions that mate with extensions extending from the diffuser plate, wherein the tabs may slide into slots between the extensions and the grooves of the diffuser plate. |
| US08616835B2 |
Gas turbine
A gas turbine including exhaust chamber defined by a cylindrical casing wall and a bearing case that supports a bearing part of a rotor in the casing wall, struts provided at equal intervals in circumferential direction of the bearing case and extending in tangential direction of the bearing case to couple the casing wall and the bearing case, a diffuser unit having an outer diffuser at the inner periphery of the casing wall and an inner diffuser at the outer periphery of the bearing case, a cooling chamber in which the outer diffuser and the inner diffuser are coupled by a strut cover, led to a portion between the casing wall and the outer diffuser, a portion between the bearing case and the inner diffuser, and the insides of the strut cover, and a partition wall that covers the outer periphery of the bearing case. |
| US08616833B2 |
Method and device for counteracting wear and tear around a guide vane
A method and a device to counteract wear about a guide vane (16) from a particle bearing drive water, the guide vane (16) being arranged in a guide vane housing (14) in a water turbine (1), and where the method comprises: —routing a supply channel (36) for water cleaner than the drive water to the attachment point area between the guide vane (16) and the guide vane housing (14); and—leading water cleaner than the drive water to flow through a slit (28) where the slit (28) at least partly encircles the guide vane (16). |
| US08616832B2 |
Turbine assemblies with impingement cooling
A gas turbine engine assembly includes a housing including an annular duct wall that at least partially defines a mainstream hot gas flow path; a stator assembly with a stator vane extending into the mainstream gas flow; and a turbine rotor assembly upstream of the stator assembly and defining a turbine cavity with the stator assembly. The turbine rotor assembly includes a rotor disk having a forward side and an aft side, a rotor platform positioned on a periphery of the rotor disk, the rotor platform defining an aft flow discourager, a rotor blade mounted on the rotor platform extending into the mainstream gas flow, and an aft seal plate mounted on the aft side of the rotor disk. The aft seal plate has a radius such that the aft seal plate protects the rotor disk from hot gas ingestion. |
| US08616830B2 |
Hydraulic power generating apparatus
The apparatus includes a water collecting plate 6 which collects water into a water inflow opening 8 while intercepting and accumulating water flowing through a waterway, and a movable gate 5 which is capable of changing flow cross-sectional area of water flow acting to the top ends of rotor blades 33 of a vertical axis turbine 3 as inflowing from the water inflow opening 8. Here, owing to changing of flow cross-sectional area with opening and closing of the movable gate 5, a flow rate can be adjusted by changing a water level at the upstream side and opening area of an orifice hole and operation of the rotor blades 33 can be stopped by blocking water passing toward the vertical axis turbine 3. |
| US08616827B2 |
Turbine blade tip clearance system
A system for adjusting a clearance between blade tips of a turbine and a shroud assembly encircling the turbine in a turbine engine is disclosed herein. The system includes a first fluid passageway operable to extend from a first source of fluid at a variable pressure to a shroud assembly of a turbine engine. The first fluid passageway directs a first stream of fluid to the shroud assembly. The system also includes a first valve positioned along the first fluid passageway and moveable between open and closed configurations. The first valve is biased to the open configuration and moved to the closed configuration passively and directly by a first predetermined level of pressure of the first stream of fluid. During periods of relatively low power production of the turbine engine, the first valve is in the open configuration and moves to the closed configuration when power production of the turbine engine increases from relatively low power production. |
| US08616823B1 |
Bin sweep collector ring assembly
In one aspect, the disclosure describes an apparatus comprising an auger section having an auger and a drive unit containing a motor for driving the auger. A collector ring housing containing a collector ring is positioned between the auger section and the drive unit. In another aspect, the disclosure describes an apparatus for attachment to a floor grate. The apparatus includes a pivot stand attached to a top surface of the floor grate, the pivot stand defining a vertical pivot axis. A collector ring has a first stationary portion and a second rotatable portion, with the stationary portion attached to the pivot stand. A housing surrounds the collector ring, and the housing and second rotatable portion of the collector ring rotate together about the pivot axis. |
| US08616821B2 |
Integrated apparatus to assure wafer quality and manufacturability
The present disclosure provides a system and method for processing a semiconductor substrate wherein a substrate is received at a load lock interface. The substrate is transferred from the load lock interface to a process module using a first module configured for unprocessed substrates. A manufacturing process is performed on the substrate within the process module. Thereafter, the substrate is transferred from the process module to the load lock interface using a second module configured for processed substrates. |
| US08616819B1 |
Lock system
A lock system having a bolt wherein a plurality of locking tabs are along a length of the bolt spaced a distance apart, a first track is along a portion of the length of the bolt, an inner nut having an inner channel, wherein threading is on an outer surface of the inner nut and a first mating tab is in the inner channel, the first mating tab slides along the first track as the inner nut slides over the bolt and the first mating tab can slide between a pair of locking tabs on the bolt when the inner nut is rotated in a first or second direction to secure the inner nut in a position along the length of the bolt, and an outer nut having an inner channel with threading and is adapted to removably thread onto the inner nut. |
| US08616816B2 |
Screw for composite/plastic materials
A fastener for composite or plastic material having a dense composition employs a head which has a socket and a recessed underside and a lower rim. In one embodiment, the shank has an upper portion with an enlarged diameter and a left hand thread while the lower portion has a tri-lobed configuration and is traversed by a right hand thread. The right hand thread may have a plurality of notches which, in one embodiment, are arranged in a spiral array. One embodiment of a fastener has longitudinally spaced rings which project from an enlarged diameter portion of the shank. The lower portion of the shank has a thread with a plurality of notches. The rings have a major diameter and spacing greater than the major diameter and spacing of the thread. |
| US08616813B2 |
Strap for a vehicle side curtain or load restraint
A strap that includes a casing, and a plurality of stuffer strands that extend lengthwise through the casing. The stuffer strands are located between two layers of the casing and are arranged in at least two sets. The stuffer strands resist elongation of the strap in response to tensile forces applied in the elongate direction of the strap, and have a maximum elongation at break of less than 7.5%. |
| US08616807B2 |
Two-stage mechanically-stabilized retaining earth wall and method
A two-stage retaining wall and related systems and methods are disclosed. The wall may include a welded-wire earth wall comprising a plurality of generally horizontal bars. The wall may include a foundation spaced apart from the welded-wire earth wall. The wall may include a plurality of concrete panels positioned on the foundation to form a concrete wall. Each concrete panel may include at least one pair of loop anchors disposed on a back face, wherein the back face faces the welded-wire earth wall. The wall may also include a plurality of connector assemblies, each of which may include a rebar hook and a threaded bar. The rebar hook is adapted for engagement with the generally horizontal bars on the welded-wire earth wall. A first end of the threaded bar may be threadably engaged with the rebar hook and a second end of the threaded bar may be adapted for connection to one of the pair of loop anchors. Each threaded bar is preferably connected to a pair of loop anchors on each of the concrete panels in a substantially horizontal plane. |
| US08616806B2 |
Riser support system for use with an offshore platform
A riser support system for use in a body of water comprises a buoyant and ballastable support structure and a plurality of substantially vertical and rigid risers each of which is attached to the inside of the support structure at a location below the center of buoyancy of the support structure and below the surface of the body of water. Usually, each riser passes through the inside of a single tube in the support structure. Typically, the riser support system is used to support a plurality of risers and their surface wellheads inside the hull of an offshore platform, usually in such a manner that the axial movement of the risers and support structure is independent of the axial movement of the hull. |
| US08616803B2 |
Paving stone having stone flanks oriented preferably perpendicular to the laying plane
The present invention relates to a paving stone having stone flanks which are oriented perpendicular to the laying plane, and wherein the paving stone has interlocking elements of a stone flank of an adjacent paving stone. |
| US08616798B2 |
Report cover
A cover (10) is disclosed for holding objects such as papers and reports. The cover (10) is formed of a member (20) having a front cover (22), a spine (24) and a back cover (26). A first portion (32) and a second portion (38) are folded over to encapsulate a prong fastener (12). The second portion (38) is then fastened to the back cover (26) with adhesive tape (58). The first and second portions (32, 38) can be part of a fastener assembly (70) having a third portion (72) that is secured to the inner surface (62) of the back cover (26). In a modification, a flap (128) can be hinged to the side of the back cover (126). |
| US08616796B2 |
Dual purpose toilet brush
A household device. One household device comprises a rod and a chamber extending from the rod, the chamber is configured to contain one dispensing element, the one dispensing element is configured for dispensing materials that are dissolvable in water. The chamber further includes at least one opening configured to allow the dispensing material to contact water and thereby dispense the dispensing material when in contact with water. The household device additionally includes one mounting clip attached to at least one of the rod and the chamber. The mounting clip is configured for mounting the rod and chamber to a household implement that periodically fills with water. |
| US08616791B2 |
Rotationally deployed actuator devices
A method for making an actuator device includes forming a substantially planar structure, including an outer frame with a latch foot, a fixed frame coupled to the outer frame, a latch mass coupled to the fixed frame, a latch block coupled to the latch mass by a latch block flexure, a moveable frame coupled to the outer frame, and an actuator incorporating a plurality of interdigitated teeth alternately attached to the fixed and moving frames. For operation, the latch mass is rotated downward until an upper surface of the latch block is disposed below and held in latching contact with a lower surface of the latch foot by the latch block flexure. |
| US08616790B2 |
Image pickup apparatus and interchangeable lens
When communication is made between a camera and an interchangeable lens by a conventional synchronization method, an operation for checking Busy is required between communications, and operating performances of the camera and interchangeable lens may not be occasionally improved. Provided is a camera and interchangeable lens system in which a communication method between a camera and an interchangeable lens can be changed to one of synchronous communication and asynchronous communication. The synchronous communication is made first while the camera serves as a master. The camera measures a time interval of a signal pulse output from the lens at a predetermined time interval in response to a command from the camera to the interchangeable lens for change of the communication to the asynchronous communication. The camera determines a baud rate for the asynchronous communication and then changes the communication method between the camera and the interchangeable lens to the asynchronous communication. |
| US08616781B2 |
Expanded beam optical connector
An expanded beam optical connector includes a housing and an expanded beam lens being mounted in the housing. The connector is operable to axially align the expanded beam lens and a terminated optical fiber so that the expanded beam lens is configured to be in optical communication with the optical fiber. |
| US08616780B2 |
Bearing adjuster assembly
A bearing adjuster assembly is provided. The bearing adjuster assembly may have a housing, a bearing, an adjuster ring, a retainer ring, and a seal assembly. The adjuster ring exerts a force upon the bearing. The retainer ring inhibits rotation of the adjuster ring. The seal assembly inhibits movement of the retainer ring. |
| US08616778B2 |
Rolling bearing apparatus
A rolling bearing apparatus capable of restraining the residence of air bubbles in the water-cooling jacket while curbing the running cost and the production cost is provided. A rolling bearing apparatus is configured to include a rolling bearing, and a housing which houses the rolling and in which a water-cooling jacket into which cooling water is introduced. By forming the bottom portion of the water-cooling jacket by an inclined surface in the axial direction, it is possible to preferably rectify the cooling water in the water-cooling jacket and therefore effectively restrain the residence of air bubbles without increasing the amount of water supplied to the water-cooling jacket. |
| US08616774B2 |
Sliding bearing
A sliding bearing 1 is formed into a cylindrical shape by placing abutting surfaces 11A and 12A of a pair of half-bearings 11 and 12 so as to abut against each other. Two foreign substance discharging grooves 5 and 5′ inclined with respect to an axial direction of the sliding bearing 1 are formed on a sliding surface 3 adjacent to an inner circumferential edge 4 of the abutting surfaces 11A and 12A. When a lubricant is supplied to the sliding surface 3, a foreign substance 6 mixed in the lubricant is trapped by foreign substance discharging grooves 5 and 5′ and then discharged out of the sliding bearing 1 from ends 5A and 5B (5A′ and 5B′) open to end faces 7 and 8. |
| US08616771B2 |
Fluid dynamic bearing device
A flatness of a part of a component formed of a resin material that faces a thrust bearing gap is easily increased. A housing (7) is injection-molded using a resin material and has a bottomed-cylindrical shape integrally including a cylindrical side portion (7a) and a flat bottom portion (7b). The resin material to be used for the injection molding of the housing (7) contains, as filler, a reinforcing fiber having a fiber diameter of 6 to 8 μm and an aspect ratio of 10 to 40. |
| US08616770B2 |
Bearing apparatuses, systems including same, and related methods
In an embodiment, a bearing apparatus comprises a first bearing assembly including a plurality of circumferentially-spaced first bearing elements each of which includes a first bearing surface. The bearing apparatus further includes a second bearing assembly including a plurality of circumferentially-spaced second bearing elements each of which includes a second bearing surface oriented to engage the first bearing surfaces of the first bearing assembly during operation. At least one of the second bearing elements may be circumferentially spaced from an adjacent one of the second bearing elements by a lateral spacing greater than a lateral dimension of the at least one of the second bearing elements. |
| US08616761B2 |
Control system for and method of combining materials
An apparatus and method for combining multiple materials. The multiple materials may include both a major material and one or more minor materials. The major and minor materials are added at transient or steady state flow rates, depending upon a command from a control signal. The actual flow rates track the commanded flow rates, but deviate by an error. The claimed arrangement provides an instantaneous and time-based error believed to be unobtainable in the prior art. |
| US08616760B2 |
Control system for and method of combining materials
An apparatus and method for combining multiple materials into a stream. The multiple materials may include both a major material and one or more minor materials. The minor materials are added using inlet tubes. The major and minor materials are added at transient or steady state flow rates, depending upon a command from a control signal. The apparatus and method utilize a control system which does not have flow control valves, flow control feedback loops or a dynamic mix tank. The actual flow rates track the commanded flow rates, but deviate by an error. The claimed arrangement provides a time-based error believed to be unobtainable in the prior art. |
| US08616756B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a touch panel includes a projection on the upper part of a front frame for holding a display element. The inner side face of the projection is opposed to the side part of the touch panel. The side part of the touch panel comes into contact with the inner side face of the projection thus positioning the touch panel into a desired position. |
| US08616753B2 |
Optical sheet and method of manufacturing the same
An optical sheet includes a light-passing base sheet, a plurality of light-passing first patterns formed on a front major surface of the base sheet, and a plurality of light-passing second patterns formed on a rear major surface of the base sheet. The first patterns protrude from the front surface of the base sheet, a top portion of each of the second patterns makes contact with the rear surface of the second patterns while a larger lower surface of each of the second patterns is exposed to serve as a light receiving surface. Voids having relatively low refractive indices are formed between the light-passing second patterns. The optical sheet employs just one base sheet in one embodiment, thereby reducing a manufacturing cost of the optical sheet. |
| US08616751B2 |
Light guide for coupling differently shaped light source and receiver
A light guide for interfacing between a light source having a light emitting surface with a first shape and a light receiver with a light receiving surface of a second shape. The light guide has a light emitting end having a first shape of substantially the same size as the first shape of the light emitting surface. A light receiving end has a second shape of substantially the same size as the second shape of the light receiving surface. A free form body between the light emitting end and the light receiving end causes a transition between the first and second shape. |
| US08616749B2 |
Planar light-emitting device
A planar light-emitting device includes a first reflecting surface, a rectangular support disposed adjacent to the first reflecting surface, light sources each including a light-emitting surface and disposed along, at least one side portion of the rectangular support, and a lens including a light-receiving surface disposed to face the light-emitting surfaces of the light sources, and configured to introduce light emitted from the light sources into a space that is demarcated by at least the first reflecting surface and the rectangular support. |
| US08616743B2 |
Projection module for vehicles
Projection module for a light unit of a vehicle having a reflector, a light source assigned to the reflector, a shutter connected to the reflector in a detachable manner, a lens holder holding a lens and being detachably connected to the shutter, and a carrier frame detachably connected to the reflector for the connection to a housing of the light unit, wherein the carrier frame is connected to the lens holder to form an integrally formed basic carrier part having, on a side facing the reflector, positioning means for the positioning of the shutter and screw fastening means for the screwable connection with a front edge of the reflector. |
| US08616739B2 |
Vandal resistant lighting fixture and method of manufacture thereof
A vandal resistant lighting fixture including a base with a first side wall and a flange extending from the first side wall; a cover having a second side wall having interior and exterior peripheries and a cap extending from the second side wall, the cap having an opening through which light from an illumination source may pass; a securing mechanism rotatably securing the cover to the base when the cover is rotated in a first direction relative to the base to a secured position; and/or a magnetically operable latching mechanism having latched and unlatched positions. With the cover in the secured position, the latching mechanism prevents rotation of the cover in a second direction opposite the first direction when the latching mechanism is in the latched position. A corresponding magnetic key may be configured to provide a magnetic force to toggle the latching mechanism between the latched and unlatched settings. |
| US08616733B1 |
Light emitting diode optical system and related methods
A light emitting diode (LED) optical system. Implementations may include an LED coupled with a printed circuit board and an optic. The optic may include a first end and a second end opposing the first end. The optic may also include a first optical stage including the first end and a second optical stage including the second end. The first optical stage may include a total internal reflector and a second optical stage includes an upper reflector located at the second end. The optic may be coupled over the LED at the first end. The second optical stage may be configured to emulate a point light source for an outer lens coupled over the LED optical system using light emitted from the LED. |
| US08616731B2 |
Stage light fixture and light fixture assembly comprising said stage light fixture
A stage light fixture is provided with a main body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an outer surface; a light source arranged inside the main body at a first end of the main body and suitable to emit a light beam substantially along the axis; and with an objective lens arranged at a second end of the main body; the main body is provided with a plurality of inserts to fix to the outer surface, by means of a magnetic coupling, a filter suitable to intercept the light beam which crosses the objective lens; the inserts are made of a magnetic material and/or of a metallic material suitable to be attracted by a magnetic material. |
| US08616730B2 |
Vapor-tight lighting fixture
This invention provides a vapor-tight luminaire that maintains a moisture-proof, sealed lower housing for the light-producing lamps (fluorescent lights, LED arrays, etc.) while isolating the electronic components in a separate, upper housing that is spaced apart from, and largely thermally isolated from, the lamps. The lamp housing comprises a unitary non-penetrated tubular lens with one or more removable end caps, sealed by gaskets. The lamp assembly is slidably mounted within the lower housing so that it is readily removable and replaceable with another assembly of the same or different type. The electronics in the upper housing is readily accessible and replaceable by removing a top cover that encloses a three sided channel member. The upper housing is metal and desirably enhances heat exchange with the environment. The two housings are held together by a pair of opposing end cap structures that include a housing end and a removable end cap. The housing end includes an upper plate that is fastened against an adjacent end of the upper housing's channel member. This compresses gaskets that stand between the respective ends of the lens and a lower ring on each housing end. The electronics of the upper housing is interconnected via a wiring harness connector to an end connector in on the lamp assembly. The wiring harness passes between the two housings free of penetration of the lens. |
| US08616728B2 |
Array solid state lighting device package
A solid state light (SSL) including solid state emitters (SSEs), and methods of manufacturing SSLs are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an SSL comprises a support having a first portion and a second portion inward of the second portion. A first set of first SSEs having a first performance specification rating can be located at the first portion, and a second set of second SSEs having a second performance specification rating different than the first performance specification rating can be located at the second portion. The first and second sets of SSEs can emit a desired output across the SSL. |
| US08616727B2 |
Bulb-type LED lamp having a widened luminous distribution via a fastened waveguide
According to one embodiment, an LED lamp includes an LED module and a light guide. The LED module includes a plurality of LEDs annularly arranged and mounted on a front surface of a board, and an opening provided in the board at an inside surrounded by the LEDs. The light guide is engaged and fastened to the opening from the front surface side of the board. The light guide guides part of light emitted by the LEDs, and emits the light guided from the front surface side to a rear surface side over an outer edge part of the board. |
| US08616726B2 |
LED lamp assembly
A LED lamp assembly includes a rectangular electrical box formed of two symmetrical U-shaped frame panels that are detachably fastened together by a tongue-and-groove joint and holding therein a control circuit board that is affixed to two parallel mounting grooves in one U-shaped frame panel by screw nails, a back cover plate and a bracket affixed to the electrical box at two opposite sides for mounting, and an elongated, rectangular light source unit affixed to the bracket and controllable by the control circuit board to emit light. |
| US08616725B2 |
LED spherical light fixtures with enhanced heat dissipation
A deep submersible light fixture includes a substantially spherical exterior housing made of metal. The housing has a hollow interior and a first aperture extending through a front side of the housing. The first aperture communicates with the hollow interior of the housing. At least one LED is mounted inside the first aperture adjacent to the hollow interior of the housing. A transparent window extends across the first aperture. A seal is situated between a periphery of the window and the housing adjacent the first aperture for providing resistance to the entry of water into the hollow interior of the housing. An electrical connector extends through a second aperture in a rear side of the housing. |
| US08616724B2 |
Solid state directional lamp including retroreflective, multi-element directional lamp optic
A solid state directional lamp is disclosed. The lamp comprises a reflector and a plurality of solid state light emitters directing light rays towards the reflector. For each solid state light emitter of the plurality of solid state light emitters, the reflector defines a segmented parabola and a mirrored wall associated with the light emitter. Each solid state light emitter is positioned in the lamp at a focal point of the segmented parabola associated with the solid state light emitter. For each solid state light, the mirrored wall associated with the solid state light emitter directs light rays from the solid state light emitter into the segmented parabola associated with the same solid state light emitter. |
| US08616712B2 |
Nonsymmetric optical system and design method for nonsymmetric optical system
A new family of truly nonsymmetric optical systems that exploit a new fabrication degree of freedom enabled by the introduction of slow-servos to diamond machining; surfaces whose departure from a sphere varies both radially and azimuthally in the aperture, and associated design method. |
| US08616708B2 |
Fluorescent wheel, light source device and projector
A fluorescent wheel comprising a base with a reflective surface and a flat bottom surface, and a fluorescent layer disposed on the reflective surface of the base such that the reflective surface of the base directs, outward from the wheel, fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent layer due to its excitation by exciting light. The reflective surface of the base has an array of minute reflective structures formed thereon so as to reflect, outward from the reflective surface, fluorescence emitted substantially parallel to the flat bottom surface of the base from the fluorescent layer. |
| US08616707B2 |
Projector with cooling mechanism
A projector includes: a housing; an optical element accommodated in the housing; and an air supply unit configured to generate a flow of cooling air for cooling a cooling target element including the optical element, a dustproof area into which the cooling air can be introduced from the outside of the housing via a dustproof filter is formed inside the housing, the optical element is accommodated in the dustproof area of the housing, and the air supply unit includes a first air supply unit configured to introduce the cooling air from the outside of the housing to the dustproof area via the dustproof filter, and a second air supply unit accommodated in the dustproof area and configured to supply the cooling air introduced to the dustproof area by the first air supply unit toward the optical element. |
| US08616701B2 |
Hand-held portable printer
A hand-held labeler/printer for printing and applying labels is described. The labeler/printer has a keyboard, a display, a scanner, and a battery-containing handle. The labeler/printer is user-friendly and compact. The labeler/printer can be easily loaded with label and webs of different widths. The labeler/printer has a discharge area along its front for the carrier web. Also described are various charging cradles and controllers for the labeler/printers. |
| US08616700B2 |
Hand-held portable printer
A hand-held labeler/printer for printing and applying labels is described. The labeler/printer has a keyboard, a display, a scanner, and a battery-containing handle. The labeler/printer is user-friendly and compact. The labeler/printer can be easily loaded with label and webs of different widths. The labeler/printer has a discharge area along its front for the carrier web. Also described are various charging cradles and controllers for the labeler/printers. |
| US08616699B2 |
Hand-held portable printer
A hand-held labeler/printer for printing and applying labels is described. The labeler/printer has a keyboard, a display, a scanner, and a battery-containing handle. The labeler/printer is user-friendly and compact. The labeler/printer can be easily loaded with label and webs of different widths. The labeler/printer has a discharge area along its front for the carrier web. Also described are various charging cradles and controllers for the labeler/printers. |
| US08616698B2 |
Method for evaluating pigment ink for ink-jet recording and method for producing pigment ink for ink-jet recording
An evaluation method for evaluating a pigment ink for ink-jet recording used together with a dye ink and containing a pigment and water includes an aggregation property evaluation method for the pigment in which 10 parts by weight of an aqueous sodium chloride solution is added to 100 parts by weight of the pigment ink; the evaluation method including first aggregation property evaluation adding an X wt % aqueous sodium chloride solution; and second aggregation property evaluation adding a Y wt % aqueous sodium chloride solution; wherein concentrations of the aqueous sodium chloride solutions are set to fulfill the following condition in the first and second aggregation property evaluations: 1.0≦X |
| US08616694B2 |
Ink jet recording method, and record made by the same
An ink jet recording method includes making a record on a recording medium having micropores using an ink composition containing a glitter pigment. The glitter pigment has an average particle diameter in the range of 1 nm to 100 nm, inclusive, and the recording medium has an average micropore diameter in the range of 3 nm to 200 nm, inclusive. |
| US08616692B2 |
Printer
A printer reduces the amount of ink wastefully consumed by purging bubbles from the ink supply path. The printer has a bubble collection unit 35 that holds bubbles in the ink supply path 21 and has at least two ink paths, a first channel 26 and second channel 27, formed in the ink supply path 21 through which ink flows to the nozzles that eject ink droplets. A bubble detection unit 37 detects if the amount of bubbles in the bubble collection unit 35 has reached a specific level. A bubble discharge unit 41 discharges bubbles from the bubble collection unit 35 based on the detection result from the bubble detection unit 37. When the bubble detection unit 37 discharge bubbles from the bubble collection unit 35, ink flows through both the first path and the second path. When printing on a print medium, ink only flows through the first path. |
| US08616687B2 |
Cartridge and method of manufacturing thereof
A cartridge includes a main body with a chamber formed therein that receives an imaging material, a circuit board having at least one opening formed through the circuit board; and an electrode disposed on the circuit board. The main body includes a support surface that supports the circuit board, a first protrusion protruding from the support surface and that contacting a first surface of the circuit board. The first surface of the circuit board extends in a direction perpendicular to the support surface. The main body also includes a second protrusion protruding from the support surface and disposed in the at least one opening. The second protrusion includes an end portion that covers a portion of the circuit board. In addition, a method for manufacturing the cartridge. |
| US08616686B2 |
Cartridge and method of manufacturing thereof
A cartridge includes a main body having a chamber formed therein for receiving an imaging material, a circuit board having a first opening and a second opening formed through the circuit board, and an electrode disposed on the circuit board. The main body includes a support surface that supports the circuit board; a first protrusion and a second protrusion protruding from the support surface, such that a portion of the first protrusion is disposed in the first opening of the circuit board and a portion of the second protrusion is disposed in the second opening of the circuit board, and a third protrusion protruding from the support surface. A portion of the third protrusion contacts a first surface of the circuit board facing away from the support surface. A method for manufacturing the cartridge. |
| US08616684B2 |
Liquid-ejecting head, liquid-ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric element
A liquid-ejecting head includes a pressure-generating chamber that communicates with a nozzle opening and a piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element includes a first electrode; a piezoelectric body layer formed on the first electrode; and a second electrode formed on the piezoelectric body layer on a side opposite the first electrode. In the liquid-ejecting head, the piezoelectric body layer has a perovskite structure and an insulating property, and an A-site and an oxygen site of the perovskite structure respectively include a vacancy formed by losing an A-site metal and a vacancy formed by losing an oxygen atom, each of the vacancies including a hydrogen atom. |
| US08616682B2 |
Liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head, comprises a pressure generation chamber communicating with a nozzle opening and a piezoelectric element having a piezoelectric layer and an electrodes. The piezoelectric layer is a perovskite type complex oxide containing bismuth, iron, and cerium. The piezoelectric layer contains the cerium in a proportion of 0.01 molar ratio or more and 0.13 molar ratio or lower based on the total amount of the bismuth and the cerium. |
| US08616681B2 |
Liquid ejecting head unit and liquid ejecting apparatus
A recording head includes flange portions to which spacers are anchored on both sides of the recording head with a head case therebetween. Spacer attachment holes are provided in the flange portions in the center of the width direction orthogonal to a nozzle row in the recording head, and a round hole and an oblong hole relative to the spacers are provided in the flange portions in positions that are distanced from a center line in the width direction. Positioning holes for the flange portions are provided in the spacers in positions that correspond to the round hole and the oblong hole in the flange portions, and the spacers are anchored to the flange portions on both sides so as to be oriented symmetrically to each other, in a positioned state in which the positions of the positioning holes are aligned with the round hole and the oblong hole. |
| US08616678B2 |
Multiple monochromatic print cartridge printing system
A color ink printing system, includes a plurality of print head cartridges, each extending across a direction of print media propagation and spaced apart along the direction of print media propagation; a print head chassis for supporting the plurality of print head cartridges, the print head chassis actuable between a printing position, a transition position, and a maintenance position; a maintenance chassis for supporting a plurality of maintenance cradles, the maintenance chassis actuable between a storage position and an operational position; and a platen on which the print media is supported and propagated. Each of the plurality of print head cartridges is held stationary with respect to a platen on which print media is propagated to effect printing on the print media. Each of the plurality of print head cartridges is a monochrome print head cartridge ejecting a fluid different to the remaining plurality of print head cartridges. |
| US08616673B2 |
Method of controlling print density
A method of controlling print density in a printing system includes gathering first data from a first sensor; gathering second data from a second sensor; comparing the first data to the second data; if the first data correlates to the second data no action is required; if the first data deviates from the second data; determine a confidence level for each sensor; identify the sensor with the lowest confidence level; and take corrective action. |
| US08616670B2 |
Image forming method and ink jet recording device
An image forming method, including: a first process for ejecting liquid droplets of a radiation curable ink composition onto a recording medium from an ejection head capable of ejecting the radiation curable ink composition using an ink jet recording device; and a second process for irradiating the liquid droplets with active radiation by an irradiation measure capable of emitting the active radiation, in which, among the liquid droplets of the radiation curable ink composition irradiated with the active radiation, a difference of the total irradiation energy of a liquid droplet having the highest total irradiation energy of the active radiation and a liquid droplet having the lowest total irradiation energy of the active radiation in the second process is 30% or more and 50% or lower of the irradiation energy (E90) [mJ/cm2] required for curing 90% of the radiation curable ink composition. |
| US08616669B2 |
Control device, method and program for manufacturing transfer medium
A control device is adapted to control a recording device provided with a nozzle for discharging a color ink and a nozzle for discharging an adhesive fluid. The control device is configured to generate color image data representing a color image made up from color dots formed by the color ink, to generate adhesion image data representing an adhesion image made up from adhesion dots, which are dots formed by the adhesive fluid, wherein the adhesion image data is generated such that the adhesion dots are arranged so that the adhesive fluid is applied at an amount that corresponds to the amount of the color ink applied per unit area and the adhesion dots are arranged so that, when the amount of the color ink applied per unit area is zero, the amount of the adhesive fluid applied differs between inside and outside of a region of the adhesion image. |
| US08616668B2 |
Image processing apparatus, printing apparatus, and image processing method
Provided are an image processing apparatus and an image processing method capable of reducing color unevenness due to variations in ejection characteristics among a plurality of nozzles when printing an image using a plurality of inks. To that end, a first image which is made up a color with noticeable color unevenness and similar colors is printed onto a print medium. The user then specifies a color and a nozzle position where color unevenness has occurred. On the basis of these results, parameters are set for a correction table referenced by are MCS processor. In so doing, it becomes possible to address the factor causing the color unevenness, and mitigate the effects of color unevenness in a focused way without incurring increases in processor load, memory requirements, or processing time as compared to the case of calibrating all lattice points. |
| US08616666B2 |
Multicolor electronic devices and processes of forming the same by printing
There is provided a method of printing a regular array of rows of subpixels on a workpiece. The subpixels have c different colors and have a subpixel pitch s. A printing head has z nozzles arranged in a row with a spacing p, where z=n1(c) and p=n2(s), the printhead being at a first position relative to the workpiece. There are c different printing inks, one for each of the c colors, and each of the printing inks is supplied to the nozzles in a regular alternating pattern. The method includes steps of printing a first set of z rows of subpixels with the printing head; moving the workpiece laterally relative to the printing head by a distance d1, where d1=n3(s); printing a second set of z rows of subpixels with the printing head; repeating the printing steps for a total of n2 sets of z rows of subpixels. Variables include: c, an integer greater than 1; n1, n2, and n3 which are the same or different and are independently selected from integers greater than 0, with the proviso that n2 is not a multiple of c. |
| US08616658B2 |
Wheel and hub assembly
A hub assembly includes a retainer housing, a retaining member, a biasing element, and an occlusion. The retainer housing includes a wheel mounting sleeve and a pin sleeve. The wheel mounting sleeve includes an axle bore configured to receive an axle. The pin sleeve has a first end and a second end. The pin sleeve includes a conduit between the first end and the second end. The first end is in fluid communication with the axle bore. The retaining member and the biasing element are in the conduit. The retaining member is configured to engage a groove in an axle. The biasing element is configured to bias the retaining member towards the axle bore. The occlusion is proximate to the second end of the pin sleeve. The occlusion is configured to inhibit the retaining member from exiting the conduit at least prior to coupling the hub assembly to a wheel. |
| US08616657B2 |
Wheel assembly
A hub assembly includes a retainer housing, a retaining member, a biasing element, and a restraining element. The retainer housing includes an axle bore configured to receive an axle and a pin sleeve. The pin sleeve includes a first end in fluid communication with the axle bore, a second end, and a conduit between the first end and the second end. The retaining member is in the conduit and is configured to operatively engage a groove in an axle. The biasing element is in the conduit and is configured to bias the retaining member towards the axle bore. The restraining element is configured to prevent the retaining member from exiting the second end of the pin sleeve at least prior to coupling the hub assembly to a wheel. A wheel assembly can include the hub assembly and a wheel. |
| US08616656B2 |
Ploughing device for mining and plough body for said device
A ploughing device for mining, with a ploughing tool having a plurality of plough bodies being interconnected by means of detachable coupling members, and with a longwall conveyor forming a plough guiding means, wherein at least one ploughing body is provided with pivotable cutter carriers. In order to have a ploughing device for mining different seam thicknesses in an efficient manner even and with low number of spare parts to be stored, the ploughing tool has three plough bodies, one forming a central ploughing body, at the end of which are connected a first and second lateral ploughing body by means of a first and second coupling members, wherein the coupling members in each case consist of a toggle bolt with toggle shaft and toggle heads being insertable on open-edged toggle pockets on the bodies. |
| US08616655B2 |
Assembly of mesh cushion in a mesh chair and assembling method thereof
In an assembly of a mesh cushion in a mesh chair and an assembling method thereof, a mesh member can be strongly fixed to a frame, enough tension can be provided to the mesh member with a simple scheme, and the edge of the mesh member can be prevented from being worn away, since the mesh type cushion assembly of a chair includes: a mesh member; a middle member fixing the edge of the mesh member; a frame and a cover that are assembled with each other so as to fix the middle member to between the frame and the cover; a tension part disposed between the frame and the cover so as to provide the mesh member with tension when the frame and the cover are assembled with each other; and a coupling unit coupling the frame and the cover to each other, and wherein, the mesh member is positioned between the frame and the cover. |
| US08616648B2 |
Vehicle seat and recliner fitting for vehicle seat
A vehicle seat is provided, in particular motor vehicle seat, including a seat part (3) and a backrest (4) which are connected by recliner fittings (5) that are connected together by a shaft (7) connected to a hand lever (9) for unlocking each recliner fitting to adjust an angle of the backrest relative to the seat base. The fitting has a first fitting part (11) and a second fitting part (12) mounted to be rotatable relative to each other about an axis of rotation. The second fitting part has inwardly facing toothing which extends along at least a portion of an arc. A locking device with a driving element 27 is connected to the shaft and locking elements movable in response to rotation of the shaft. |
| US08616640B2 |
Chair
A chair includes a base that has a generally U-shaped member. The generally U-shaped member is comprised of a front member attached to a first end portion and a second end portion. A seat is supported on the base and is moveable from an upright position to a reclined position. A first resilient member is attached to the first end portion of the generally U-shaped member. A second resilient is attached to the second end portion of the generally U-shaped member. End portions of the first and second resilient members are attached to the seat adjacent to a rear portion of the seat. The first and second resilient members are sized and configured to resiliently move or flex such that the seat is positioned at the reclined position when a user sits on the seat. |
| US08616637B2 |
Seat support assembly
Described are seat support assemblies comprising at least one of a pitch reducer assembly, a fitting assembly, an energy absorption assembly, and an integrated leg assembly. The pitch reducer assembly may include a pitch reducer housing, at least one pitch riser, and at least one pitch stop. The integrated leg assembly may include a forward leg and an aft leg, where the forward leg is coupled to the pitch reducer assembly. The fitting assembly may include a pair of forward housing mating components and a pair of aft housing mating components, where the pairs of mating components are coupled to the forward and aft legs, respectively. The energy absorption assembly may include a tubular member, a die slidingly coupled to the tubular member, and a die holder coupled to the die, wherein the die holder has a hemispherical outer surface that is configured to pivotally mate with a passenger seat housing and rotate about an arc of rotation relative to the tubular member. |
| US08616636B2 |
Vehicle seat
In a vehicle seat, first and second front links as well as first and second rear links are pivotally connected between a seat cushion frame and a floor of vehicle. The first front link has one pivot point pivotally connected with a drive pinion rotatably supported in one side of the seat cushion frame and another pivot point disposed forwardly of that one pivot point. Likewise, the second front link has one pivot point pivotally connected with the other side of the seat cushion frame and another pivot point disposed forwardly of that one pivot point. A first connecting link element is pivotally connected between the afore-said another pivot point of the first front link and the first rear link. A second connecting link element is pivotally connected between the afore-said another pivot point of the second front link and the second rear link. |
| US08616631B2 |
Seat pan assembly
Embodiments of the present invention include a passenger seat with a seat frame having at least one coupling projection and a seat pan assembly having at least one coupling retainer. The coupling retainer is configured to releasably engage the coupling projection via at least one locking device. The seat pan assembly is disengaged from the passenger seat by removing the locking device, disengaging the coupling retainer, and rotating the seat pan assembly to an open position. |
| US08616629B2 |
Seating apparatus
The present invention relates to a seating apparatus, and more particularly to a combined table and chair. We describe a seating apparatus comprising a table (25), a chair (26) and a table base (16) wherein the table comprises a table top (10) and a table leg (11) defining an axis about which axis said table top is rotatable with respect to the table base; wherein the chair is mounted for rotation with said table top about said axis. In a preferred embodiment, the chair comprises a seat (21) and a chair frame (31) upon which the seat is mounted, wherein the frame includes at least one floor-engaging leg (22). Preferably, the table leg has upper and lower ends, the lower end being mounted for rotation upon the table base and the chair frame is mounted upon the table leg at a point intermediate the upper and lower ends thereof. More preferably, the chair frame is mounted substantially adjacent the lower end of the table leg. |
| US08616628B2 |
Multiple configuration tables and bars
There is provided a reconfigurable furniture assembly having a substantially planar surface member movable about a horizontal axis in an endless manner, a support member holding the substantially planar surface over the ground surface, and a plurality of assigned location around the planar surface member for individuals to occupy and face a portion of the planar surface member. A drive element moves the planar surface member and assigned locations about a horizontal axis. |
| US08616624B2 |
Seat structure and vehicle
In a seat, in a state in which tilting of a back main frame around a tilting center is locked by a reclining mechanism, a lower end of a back joint link is turnably joined to a vehicle side. Thus, turning of a first link, a back sub frame and the back joint link is locked, and operation of a back link mechanism is locked. Therefore, a supporting rigidity from rear side of a back side portion can be enhanced by the back link mechanism (the back sub frame), and a crew sitting in the seat can be thoroughly retained. |
| US08616622B2 |
Energy management hood bumper
A hood bumper assembly for automotive vehicle hoods is provided that can manage impact energy from a collision with a pedestrian. The hood bumper assembly may have a bumper with a cushion that is threaded to a retainer attached to the vehicle frame. The threaded engagement between the bumper and the retainer may have a percentage of thread engagement that is less than industry standards so that the threads skip without substantially deforming when an impact load is applied to the vehicle hood. |
| US08616621B2 |
Potted panel latch system
A method of preparing and a finished panel and latch combination, wherein the panel and latch mounting combination are seamless and attractive. |
| US08616616B2 |
Side skirt for a pulled vehicle
The present invention relates to a device for minimizing the aerodynamic drag that results when tractors, trailers, rigid trucks, lorries, and other vehicles are moving through air. In particular the invention relates to a plate-shaped flow conductor having a front edge, a lower edge, a rear edge and an upper edge. The flow conductor is mountable along the upper edge in a substantially vertical position to a body portion of a pulled vehicle of a vehicle combination of at least two pivotally connected vehicles. When mounted the flow conductor extends at least partially under the body portion in a longitudinal direction of the pulled vehicle. Characteristic for the flow conductor according to the invention is that the flow conductor comprises locally in conjunction with the front edge a thickened portion, which has a streamlined outer contour in a cross section transversally to the front edge. |
| US08616614B2 |
Armrest structure for vehicle and setting method of armrest height for vehicle
An armrest structure for a vehicle of the present invention comprises a first armrest to support an elbow of one of arms of a passenger seated in a seat and a second armrest to support an elbow of the other arm of the passenger. A horizontal distance W1 between a vertically-extending seat center line of the seat and an elbow's support position at the first armrest is greater than a horizontal distance W2 between the vertically-extending seat center line and an elbow's support position at the second armrest, and a height H1 of the elbow's support position at the first armrest is greater than a height H2 of the elbow's support position at the second armrest. Accordingly, the passenger's elbows can be properly supported at the armrests on both sides, in a seat width direction, of the seat. |
| US08616611B2 |
Door module for a vehicle door, and mounting method
A door assembly for a vehicle includes a door frame and a door lock. A force transmitting mechanism has one end connected to the door lock and another end is premounted on a door module housing. The door module housing is mounted to the door frame and a trim panel secured to the door frame. A method includes the steps of premounting the door module to the door frame, securing the door panel to the door frame and connecting an door opening mechanism to the force transmitting mechanism. |
| US08616609B2 |
Fuel lid structure
The present invention prevents a lock pin from coming out of a lock hole even if a fuel lid locked in a bolted manner by intrusion of the lock pin into the lock hole is pushed toward a vehicle body. A second lock hole is formed in an inner peripheral wall of the lock hole and a protruding portion formed on the lock pin is engaged in the second lock hole when the fuel lid is pushed toward the vehicle body. |
| US08616608B1 |
Two-piece assembly for a wrapped panel having a hole or unique feature
The present invention can include a panel assembly and method to make the panel assembly to be installed in an instrument panel, the panel assembly having a front panel and a side panel. The front panel and side panel can be covered with a flexible covering. The flexible covering on the front panel and the flexible covering on the side panel can be wrapped around the respective panel in a joint area where the front panel and side panel meet. A compression force in the joint area can help secure the flexible coverings. The front panel and/or the side panel can also have one or more attachment means, such as clips, fastener holes and the like for attaching the panel assembly to the instrument panel. |
| US08616607B2 |
Instrument panel assembly
The instrument panel assembly for an automotive vehicle includes an instrument panel and a component. The instrument panel includes an exterior surface and a cutout portion having a base which is recessed from the exterior surface. The cutout portion includes an inner wall extending between the base and the exterior surface of the instrument panel. The component attaches to the instrument panel. The component includes an engagement portion located at a distal end. The distal end of the engagement portion is at least partially received within the cutout portion of the instrument panel. The engagement of the distal end of the engagement portion of the component within the cutout portion of the instrument panel provides a continuous contact between the outer surface of the engagement portion and the inner wall of the cutout portion. |
| US08616604B2 |
Emergency vehicle patient transport systems
Emergency vehicle patient transport systems are disclosed. In one embodiment, an emergency vehicle patient transport system includes: a loading passage providing access to an interior of an emergency vehicle; one or more tracks coupled to a floor of the emergency vehicle, a ceiling of the emergency vehicle, a wall of the emergency vehicle or combinations thereof wherein, a travel path is delineated by the one or more tracks; and a chair slidingly engaged with the one or more tracks, and vertically positioned between the floor and the ceiling. The chair locks in one or more set positions. And, the one or more set positions are selected from a group consisting of an airway care position, an extended airway care position, a procedural care position, a responder position, a patient care position, and a patient load position. |
| US08616599B2 |
Hand and robot
A hand according to an embodiment includes a pair of supporting units, a pair of capturing claws, an opening-and-closing mechanism, and a reciprocating mechanism. The pair of capturing claws are supported on the inner surfaces of the pair of respective supporting units and capture a part. The opening-and-closing mechanism opens and closes the pair of supporting units along a reciprocating axis intersecting with longitudinal directions of the supporting units. The reciprocating mechanism causes the pair of capturing claws to rotate about the reciprocating axis to change the direction of each tip of the capturing claws. |
| US08616595B2 |
Actuator assembly for a vehicle door latch
An actuator assembly for a vehicle door latch includes, but is not limited to, a pushable member. The actuator assembly further includes a mounting member connected to the pushable member and configured for connection to a vehicle door. The mounting member is further configured to mount the pushable member to the vehicle door in a manner that enables the pushable member to be pushed from a closed position to an open position. The actuator assembly further includes a latch engaging member connected to the mounting member and configured for engagement with a latch of the vehicle door. The latch engaging member is configured to move the latch from a latched position to an unlatched position when the pushable member moves from the closed position to the open position, whereby the user is enabled to both unlatch the vehicle door and open the vehicle door with a single pushing movement. |
| US08616594B2 |
Device for operating a door latch in a vehicle
An action with a handle on a vehicle is transmitted to an operational unit in a door, and then to a locking-unlocking unit via a first action-transmitting member. The locking-unlocking unit allows the door latch to disengage from a striker of the vehicle via a second action-transmitting member. The door of the vehicle opens. |
| US08616591B2 |
Push plate assembly
A push plate assembly (10) that may be used for driving a bolting mechanism is disclosed. The push plate assembly (10) may be included as part of a push pad assembly or panic bar assembly, such as may be fitted to single or multipoint bolt mechanisms, for example, those fitted to emergency exit doors. The push plate assembly comprises a housing (32), a push plate (36), a slide plate (45) and a drive cam (55). The drive cam (55) is arranged to rotate within the housing so as to rotationally drive a bolt mechanism. |
| US08616590B2 |
Hydraulic tensioning flange connector
Hydraulic flange connectors connect two flange components together, and hydraulic pressure applied to ports in connector holes of one of the flanges tension the flange studs and crush the gasket between the flange components. Each connector has a piston that dispose in the connector hole and can move therein when hydraulic pressure is applied through the port by a pump. A first stud connected to the piston extends beyond one open end of the hole for connection to a first nut, while a second stud connected to the piston extending beyond another open end of the to the second flange component for connection to a second nut. A retainer having seals threads in this other open end of the hole and seals between the hole and the second stud. |
| US08616582B2 |
Booklet with ultra removable adhesive label
An ultra removable booklet with label for application to media is described. The booklet with label includes a release liner, an ultra removable adhesive layer, a paper stock layer, a booklet, an adhesive layer, and a clear plastic cover layer. The clear plastic cover layer has the adhesive layer applied to a bottom surface thereof and the bottom surface is positioned over the booklet. The booklet is positioned over the paper stock. The ultra removable adhesive layer is attached to the lower surface of the paper stock. The release liner is applied to the ultra removable adhesive layer. A process for forming an ultra removable booklet with label for application to media is also described. |
| US08616579B2 |
Side airbag
A side airbag capable of fully absorbing impact directed to a chest region while keeping an arm from being pressed against the chest region due to inflation is provided. A side airbag 30, an arm facing section 38 which faces an arm H2 of the occupant H in an inflated state has a dented shape and serves to push up the arm H2 to a position where the arm H2 does not overlap a chest H3 region of the occupant. |
| US08616574B2 |
Compact ergonomic mobility chair
The present invention provides an ergonomic mobility chair comprising a frame, two primary wheels and at least one secondary load-bearing rolling point device. The primary wheels are usable for hand propulsion of the chair and positioned forward of the center of gravity of the chair. The primary wheels are mounted on a collapsible axle structure coupled to the frame. The at least one secondary load-bearing rolling point device is positioned aft of the center of gravity of the chair and coupled to the frame. A seat and two knee supports are coupled to the frame, the seat and the knee supports being arranged with respect to one another so as to position a user of the chair in a kneeling, upright, and generally neutral physiologic position. The seat and the knee supports each comprise at least a comfort cushion support coupled to the frame of the chair. |
| US08616573B1 |
Manual wheelchair travels straight on sloped sidewalk surfaces
Sloped-for-rain urban sidewalks are horrible for wheelchair users because of the constant veering-off threat caused by gravity. Anybody who tries to self-propel a wheelchair on a city sidewalk for the first time is in for a rude awakening—the user must use one hand to steer by retarding one wheel, and that makes propelling inefficient, difficult and frustrating, to say nothing of the dangerous veering-off threat. Applicant's solution (undiscovered heretofore (centuries)) is to provide joining means to couple and uncouple the drive wheels. The joining means, when coupled, causes the two drive wheels to rotate in unison preventing the wheelchair from veering-off so that it travels straight when traversing a sloped surface, and when uncoupled allowing the two drive wheels to rotate at different speeds to allow turning. Joining means comprises: slip-clutch, gear configuration or the like, and may be automatic or user controlled. |
| US08616569B2 |
Arrangement of a stabilizer on a wheel suspension for motor vehicles
The invention relates to an arrangement of a stabilizer (44), which is configured in two parts, on a wheel suspension for a motor vehicle, characterized in that the stabilizer parts (43) thereof can be rotated relative to one another in the same or opposite direction by means of an associated motor/gear unit (46). Each stabilizer part (43) comprises a hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar (49) whose end on the gear side (45) is connected to a gear output (50a) and whose end distal from the gear is connected for drive purposes to an inner torsion bar (47) which is guided through the hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar (49) and out of the end (45) on the gear side of the hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar. The inner torsion bar (47) is directly or indirectly connected to an output lever (41) which is articulated on a wheel suspension element (16). According to the invention, the gear (50) of the motor/gear unit is disposed with its gear output (50a) between the actuator motor (48) and the output lever (41) in the transverse direction of the vehicle (y). |
| US08616568B2 |
Structure of vehicle subframe
A structure of a vehicle subframe mounted to a vehicle, in which a wheel hub may be connected to a vehicle body through a lower arm and an upper arm disposed below and above one another, and in which the lower arm may be coupled in a traverse direction of the vehicle may include a plate-shaped body mounted to a lower portion of the vehicle body, and having the lower arm mounted thereon in the traverse direction of the vehicle, and a mounting bracket protruding from the body upwards wherein the upper arm may be pivotally coupled to an upper portion of the mounting bracket. |
| US08616567B2 |
Vehicle suspension apparatus
It is an object to effectively enhance rigidity of a subframe installed to couple a pair of right and left wheel suspension members, with a simple structure, and allow a stabilizer to be adequately installed. A subframe (3) installed to couple a pair of right and left wheel suspension members (2) together comprises a cross member (31) provided with a lateral-link support portion (14, 18) supporting an end of the lateral link (5, 6), a pair of right and left side members (33) each extending from a respective one of opposite vehicle-widthwise outer ends of the cross member (31), in a vehicle longitudinal direction; and a pair of right and left reinforcing members (35) each reinforcing a coupling section between the lateral-link support portion (14, 18) of the cross member (31) or a vicinity thereof, and a respective one of the side members (33). A stabilizer (10) is installed above the cross member (31) to extend in a vehicle widthwise direction in such a manner as to couple the right and left wheel suspension members 2, and each of the reinforcing members (35) is provided with a stabilizer support section torsionably supporting the stabilizer (10). |
| US08616566B2 |
Head plate for vehicle axle
A vehicle axle is provided with a main body defined by the combination of a channel having an inverted U-shaped configuration and a bottom plate. The ends of the main body are curved upwardly to define a pair of gooseneck portions. Axle head sections are formed at the ends of the axle and are closed off by end extensions extending from the front and rear walls of the channel and a cover flap extension extending from the top wall of the channel. A head plate having a rounded back edge and/or a pocket is inserted within the space between the cover flap and the top edges of the end extensions. |
| US08616559B2 |
Key for quick change for turret pocket
In an embodiment, there is a turret pocket key that includes a first slider block, a second slider block, a third slider block and a fourth slider block. The slider blocks are retained such that the slider blocks are adapted to move relative to one another, the key is adapted to move the first slider block and/or the fourth slider block to draw the first slider block and the fourth slider block relatively towards each other, and when the first slider block and the fourth slider block are drawn relatively towards each other, the second slider block and the third slider block move outward in a direction normal to the relative direction of movement of the first slider block towards the fourth slider block. |
| US08616557B2 |
Multilayer gasket with segmented integral stopper feature
A multilayer metal gasket (40) having first (28) and second (30) functional layers. Each layer (28, 30) includes an opening (34, 38). Sealing beads (42, 44) are formed in each layer (28, 30) and, preferably, arranged to contact each other in crest-to-crest orientation to perfect a seal therebetween. A stopper feature (54) is provided to restrict compression of the sealing beads (42, 44) in use. The stopper feature (54) is arranged in a generally circular pattern and is composed of a plurality of discrete nesting embossments (56) which are closely spaced to one another but do not touch. Each discrete nesting embossment (56) is substantially identical in shape to the next adjacent discrete nesting embossment (56) but oriented approximately 180 degrees therefrom. The embossments (56) may be formed entirely on one of the functional layers (28, 30) or on both functional layers. |
| US08616556B2 |
Combined oil ring
A combined oil ring includes an oil ring having upper and lower rails formed integrally at an outer circumferential side of the oil ring to slide on a cylinder wall; a coil expander installed at an inner circumferential side of the oil ring to force the oil ring radially outwards; and a side rail installed at an upper side of the oil ring and having no torsion along an axial direction of the oil ring. |
| US08616555B2 |
Packing assembly for reciprocating pumps
A packing assembly adapted to be mounted on and seal a reciprocating shaft includes a packing nut, an elastomeric sealing member releasably coupled to the packing nut, and a keeper to facilitate the releasable coupling between the elastomeric sealing member and the packing nut, wherein the entire assembly is removable from the reciprocating shaft as a unit. |
| US08616554B2 |
Low and reverse pressure application hydrodynamic pressurizing seals
The present invention relates to circumferential seal ring segments positioned around a rotating shaft so as to prevent fluids from leaking from a lubricant sump during both low and high pressure conditions. The circumferential seal is comprised of a plurality of adjoining annular ring segments facing the rotating shaft. Each sealing ring segment includes a dead end circumferential groove on a shaft-side face of each sealing ring such that, when the segments are joined, the circumferential dead end groove of each segment extends arcuately in the direction of shaft rotation. At least one additional groove is contained on the shaft-side face of each sealing ring segment. The additional groove(s) directs and creates pressurized air within the dead end circumferential groove, either directly or indirectly maintaining a seal between the ring segments and the shaft. A bleed hole may also be provided to create a seal between each sealing segment. |
| US08616553B1 |
Basketball game assembly with ball blocking device
A basketball game assembly includes a backboard, a hoop mounted on a front side of the backboard and a ball blocking device. The ball blocking device includes a shaft, a blocking member and a driving arrangement. The shaft at its rear end is rotatably mounted to the backboard. The blocking member is connected to a front end of the shaft and disposed adjacent to a front edge of the hoop. The driving arrangement is configured to rotate the shaft so as to have the blocking member move to a blocking position higher than the hoop or depart from the blocking position. |
| US08616552B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for an automatic card handling device and communication networks including same
An automatic card handling device, automatic card handling devices within a network, and methods of use are disclosed. An automatic card handling device includes a shuffling apparatus with a controller and configured to deliver a set of shuffled cards, and a communication module operably coupled to the controller. The communication module is configured for establishing an electronic communication with a local or world-wide network and thereafter sending and receiving information related to the operation of the automatic card handling device across the network. A network of automatic card handling devices may include a plurality of automatic card shufflers. The network may also include at least one server operably coupled to the plurality of automatic card shufflers. In addition, the server may be operably coupled to a service center through a world-wide network. |
| US08616550B2 |
Sheet transport device and image forming apparatus
Disclosed is a sheet transport device including a main body, a first transport path through which a transported sheet passes, a second transport path through which the sheet that passes through the first transport path and is reversed in a transport direction thereof passes, having a curved portion on a downstream side thereof, a first guiding member that forms a first guiding surface of the second transport path, and a second guiding member that forms a second guiding surface opposite to the guiding surface, wherein the first guiding member is supported to be rotatable between a guiding posture where the sheet is guided and an open posture that rotates from the guiding posture to open the guiding surfaces, and an interval between the first guiding member and the second guiding member in the open posture is greater than that in the guiding posture. |
| US08616548B2 |
Sheet conveying device and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying device includes a blocking member having a blocking surface with which a leading end of a sheet that is being conveyed comes into contact for obliquity correction. The blocking member is rotated by being pushed by the sheet against an urging force of a positioning unit that positions the blocking member to be in the standby position. The blocking member is rotatable to be in a sheet-passage-allowing orientation in which the sheet is allowed to pass. When a trailing end of the sheet that is being conveyed has passed the blocking member, the blocking member that is in the sheet-passage-allowing orientation rotates in a same direction as a sheet conveyance direction and is positioned to be in a standby position. |
| US08616546B2 |
Sheet feeder and image forming apparatus having stacker with elevation unit
A sheet feeder includes a stacker that accommodates multiple sheets of recording media, an elevation unit disposed in a downstream portion of the stacker in a sheet feeding direction and which ascends to lift a leading edge portion of the sheet in the sheet feeding direction, a rotary feeding member disposed facing the elevating unit and forming a nip in which the leading edge portion of the sheet is clamped together with the elevation unit when the elevation unit ascends, and a guide unit disposed adjacent to an outer circumference of the feeding member, facing an upper side of the leading edge portion of the sheet. The guide unit guides the leading edge portion of the sheet toward the nip between the feeding member and the elevation unit. |
| US08616545B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A link member is rotatably supported by a lifting plate. When the lifting plate moves upward and downward, the movement of the link member is guided by a guide portion provided on a link guide hole. Before sheet feeding starts, the movement of the link member is regulated by a holding portion provided on a lower end of the guide portion so as to hold the lifting plate in a standby position against a biasing force of a feed spring. When the sheet is fed, a feed cam rotating integrally with a feed roller presses the link member to release the link member from being locked by the holding portion of the link guide hole to thereby make the link member movable along the guide portion. |
| US08616544B2 |
Document feeder, document reader, and image forming apparatus with improved accuracy of document skew correction
A document feeder feeds document sheets one by one from a stack on a tray by pressing one or more pick-up rollers against an uppermost document sheet and guiding one widthwise edge of the document sheet. The width direction is perpendicular to a document transport direction. The document feeder includes: a document size obtainer that obtains size information indicating a width of the document sheet; and a center-of-contact shifting mechanism that shifts a center of contact of each pick-up roller along an axial direction of the pick-up roller according to the obtained size information. The center of contact is a central point of an area where the pick-up roller is in contact with the document sheet. Each pick-up roller is in a barrel shape. The center-of-contact shifting mechanism shifts the center of contact of each pick-up roller by axially tilting the pick-up roller relative to the document surface. |
| US08616542B2 |
Print-medium post-treatment apparatus and control method thereof
A print-medium post-treatment apparatus and a control method thereof, to increase the number of print media stacked on a bookbinding stack tray by controlling operation of a conveyor belt. The a print-medium post-treatment apparatus includes a bookbinding stack tray including a tray sensor to sense a print medium and a conveyor belt to move the print medium, and a controller to move the print medium in a given discharge direction by operating the conveyor belt in a first direction if the tray sensor senses the print medium moved onto the bookbinding stack tray and to move the print medium in an opposite direction of the discharge direction by operating the conveyor belt in a second direction so as to reduce a distance between a previously discharged print medium and a subsequently discharged print medium. |
| US08616540B2 |
Trailer hitch attachment
Embodiments of the present invention provide a jaw apparatus that is tied to a stable anchor (e.g., a vehicle) and that holds wood off the ground in a stable manner to enable cutting by a user. The jaw apparatus can include a main shaft that defines a shaft axis. The main shaft can have a first end and a second end. The first end of the main shaft can have an insertion portion that is configured to be inserted into a trailer-hitch-like receptacle (e.g., a trailer hitch receptacle). The jaw apparatus can include an indentation structure coupled to the second end of the main shaft. The indentation structure can form an indentation, which can have interior surfaces. The interior surfaces can extend upwardly and away from the main shaft. The interior surfaces can be configured to exert upward force on the piece of wood when received in the jaw apparatus. The jaw apparatus can include one or more bars coupled to the main shaft at a bar connection location between the first and second ends of the main shaft. Each of the one or more bars can extend upwardly and away from the main shaft in a direction toward the second end of the main shaft. Each of the one or more bars can have a downward facing surface configured to exert downward force on the piece of wood when received in the jaw apparatus. |
| US08616536B2 |
Active dynamic vibration absorber apparatus for vehicle
An active dynamic vibration absorber apparatus for a vehicle that may be mounted to a frame of the vehicle and vibrates when power may be supplied to attenuate vibration of the vehicle, may include a housing, an upper spring and a lower spring, and a yoke assembly disposed between the upper spring and the lower spring which may be plates arranged in parallel, and selectively vibrates up/down in the housing, wherein the yoke assembly has an upper protrusion and a lower protrusion that protrude from the top and the bottom thereof, respectively, the upper protrusion being fastened to the center of the upper spring through the housing, and the lower protrusion being fastened to the center of the lower spring in the housing. |
| US08616535B2 |
Active vibration isolation support system
A yoke of an actuator of an active vibration isolation support system, which controls an internal pressure of a liquid chamber by reciprocally oscillating a movable core by energizing a coil, includes a cylindrical portion and a flange portion. The cylindrical portion is disposed on an outer side of the yoke in a radial direction and faces an inner peripheral surface of the coil, while the flange portion faces an end surface of the coil. The yoke further includes an inner inclined surface formed in an inner side of an intersection of the cylindrical portion and the flange portion, and inclined in such a manner that an outer side thereof in the radial direction with respect to an axis of an actuator inclines upward. Accordingly, the vector of a magnetic flux generated through the energization of the coil can be oriented toward the movable core from the flange portion of the yoke via the inner inclined surface thereof. The magnetic flux is thus allowed to flow smoothly from the yoke to the movable core, so that the efficiency of the magnetic circuit is enhanced. As a result, the operational response of the actuator can be improved. |
| US08616531B2 |
Pivoting fencing apparatus and fencing system
A fencing apparatus for preventing animals from climbing over a fence, which includes a plurality of first and corresponding second elongated members, is provided. Each of the first and second elongated members pivot relative to each other from a first stationary position to a second variable position. A flexible plastic netting is connected to and extends across the plurality of first and second elongated members. When connected to a vertically extending fence, the fencing apparatus extends from the vertically extending fence such that the second elongated member pivots downwardly upon being subject to a load e.g., by the weight of a climbing animal. |
| US08616528B2 |
Integrated hydraulic motor and winch
Hydraulic powered assemblies 10 and 110 are disclosed. The assembly 10 includes a support unit 12, a hydraulic motor 14, and a driven member 16 that is integral with the hydraulic motor 14. The hydraulic motor 14 includes a power group 32 that includes six gerotor power units 34a-34f. Each gerotor power unit 34a-34f includes an inner rotor 40 that is fixed to a stationary through-shaft 24 and an outer rotor 42 that is mounted for hypocycloidal movement relative to the inner rotor 40. The driven member 16 includes segments 51 that support the outer rotors 40 within the segments 51. The segments 51 carry a winch cable receiving member 60 when the assembly 10 is used as a winch. The hydraulic powered assembly 110 is an alternative embodiment that includes two power groups 131 and 132. The power groups 131 and 133 may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. |
| US08616525B2 |
Valve for separating product media in the pipes of a product-carrying system
The invention relates to a valve for separating product media in pipes of a product-carrying system. The valve comprises a valve housing and a valve body arranged in a valve housing interior. The valve has a drive element which is movable in the axial direction, is connected to the valve body and is intended for moving the valve body. The valve further comprises a sealing diaphragm for sealing a valve housing interior on the drive side. The sealing diaphragm has a radially extending diaphragm body with a radially inner opening through which the drive element reaches. The diaphragm body has a radially outer edge region and a radially inner edge region which surrounds the radially inner opening. The radially outer edge region is clamped radially and the radially inner edge region is clamped axially. The sealing diaphragm is manufactured from a dimensionally stable material which is thermally resistant up to at least approximately 130° C. |
| US08616518B2 |
Stair forming method and apparatus
A stairway forming system includes a plurality of stacked, elongate stair riser form carriers, the carriers being longitudinally displaceable relative to one another. An anchoring unit anchors at least a lowermost riser form carrier in position relative to a substrate. A positioning assembly is attached to at least one of the riser form carriers and cooperates with the remaining riser form carriers for displacing the carriers in unison relative to one other to adopt a staggered operative configuration approximating an angle of the stairway to be formed. |
| US08616515B2 |
Slide rail device for vehicle
The slide rail device includes a lock release lever which switches a locking mechanism between a slide restriction state and a slide restriction release state by rotating in the vertical direction and includes a rail-incorporated portion positioned between an upper rail and a bottom wall of a lower rail, a rotational contact portion which is formed on an upper surface of the rail-incorporated portion and contacts a roof surface of the upper rail, and a biaser which is installed in the rail-incorporated portion and the upper rail and biases the rotational contact portion toward the roof surface. |
| US08616511B2 |
Apparatus and method for mounting a bimini top
A quick-release swivel fork assembly for pivotably supporting a remote member. The quick-release swivel fork assembly includes a first portion, a body portion releasably coupled to the first portion, a pin supported by the body portion, and a latch member coupled to the body portion. The body portion is rotatable relative to the first portion about a first axis, while separation along the first axis is prevented. The pin defines a second axis for rotatably mounting the remote member. The latch member is biased to a first position in which the latch member blocks separation of the body portion from the first portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The latch member is operable to selectively enable separation of the body portion from the first portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis. |
| US08616508B1 |
Tripod adapter for hand-held mobile media devices
A portable mobile media device adapter to enable secure and adjustable mounting of a mobile media device on a standard tripod or other supporting devices to allow hands-free viewing and operation of the mobile media device. The portable mobile media device adapter consists essentially of a snap-on shell portion; a flat tablet portion which has one flat surface and one decorated surface, the flat surface adhered to the outside surface of the snap-on shell portion, the decorated surface further has a surface aperture, one threaded nut further having a threaded through hole disposed permanently within the flat tablet portion; and an elongated kick stand assembly having a top end and a bottom end, the top end further has one horizontal threaded through hole and one matching threaded bolt wherein the matching threaded bolt fastens the top end to the threaded nut of the flat tablet portion, the bottom end further has an elongated bottom threaded bolt extending downwardly therefrom. |
| US08616507B2 |
Panel mounting assembly
A clamp, assembly and method for connecting a panel to a vehicle including longitudinally opposed end portions that are initially snap-fit in a loose slip-fit orientation to a vehicle support in order to adjustably fit the panel and finally coupled in a non-slip-fit orientation about a periphery of the contour of the vehicle support to fix the panel. |
| US08616502B1 |
Deployable solar panel assembly for spacecraft
A deployable solar panel assembly including a housing, a solar panel receivable in the housing, and first and second support structures disposed on the housing proximate the lateral edges of the solar panel. The first and second support structures each include an extension member connected to the housing and a pair of tethering members pivotably connected to the housing on opposite sides of the housing. The pair of tethering members are foldable against the housing and, upon deployment, a distal end of each tethering member projects outward from the opposite sides of the housing. The distal end of a deployed solar panel is supported in an extended position by the extension member, and supported against displacement out of the plane of the panel by tethers connected to the distal ends of the pair of tethering members. Spacecraft employing the deployable solar panel assembly and methods of deploying the assembly are also disclosed. |
| US08616501B2 |
Pre-installed adaptable supply network for aeroplanes
An aircraft structure is provided that includes, but is not limited to structural elements, a first multitude of lines that are in a fixed manner connected to structural elements, a second multitude of lines that are in a fixed manner connected to structural elements and whose longitudinal direction intersects the longitudinal direction of the first multitude of lines so that the longitudinal directions of the lines form a network that covers the aircraft structure at least in some sections, and connecting elements in order to, in the state of the structural elements installed in the aircraft structure, connect selected lines of the first multitude to selected lines of the second multitude of selected points of intersection of the network in order to in this way form transmission lines, such as lines for electricity transmission and/or data transmission. Furthermore, a method is provided for manufacturing such an aircraft structure. |
| US08616500B2 |
Diamond shaped window for composite and/or metallic airframe
An aircraft fuselage may include a barrel section having a side region. The fuselage may include a first cutout and a second cutout formed in the side region in side-by-side relation to one another. The fuselage may provide a direct load path extending along the barrel section. The load path may extend substantially continuously from a lower portion of the side region generally under the first cutout to an upper portion of the side region generally over the second cutout. |
| US08616498B2 |
Aircraft insulation systems and methods
In one of the embodiments of the disclosure, there is provided an aircraft insulation system and method for providing fire penetration resistance and/or thermal and acoustic protection. The aircraft insulation system comprises one or more insulation blankets, each having an inboard side and an outboard side. The aircraft insulation system further comprises a fire penetration resistant cover material having a heat seal adhesive, wherein the fire penetration resistant cover material covers the outboard side of the one or more insulation blankets. The aircraft insulation system further comprises an insulation cover film having a heat seal adhesive, wherein the insulation cover film covers the inboard side of the one or more insulation blankets. The aircraft insulation system further comprises a thermal heat seal that joins the fire penetration resistant cover material and the insulation cover film together to form a continuous insulation blanket assembly. |
| US08616496B2 |
Systems and methods for a self-deploying vehicle drag device
Embodiments of the invention relate to systems and methods for a self-deploying vehicle drag device. In one embodiment, a drag device for a vehicle can be provided. The drag device can include a chute body, wherein the chute body is connected to the vehicle. The drag device can also include at least one collapsible member mounted to the chute body, wherein the at least one collapsible member and chute body are maintained in respective compressed configurations until deployed. Furthermore, the drag device can include at least one device adapted to release the chute body from the vehicle, wherein the chute body and the at least one collapsible member are deployed in expanded configurations with respect to the vehicle. |
| US08616495B2 |
Hydraulic circuit for actuating an undercarriage, and methods of deploying and raising an undercarriage using such a circuit
A hydraulic circuit for actuating an undercarriage, the circuit comprising: a feed line for feeding fluid and a return line; at least one door selector connected to the feed and return lines, the selector feeding door service lines, including an opening line and a closing line for opening and closing the doors; at least one undercarriage selector connected to the feed and return lines, feeding undercarriage service lines including a deployment line and a raising line for deploying and raising the undercarriage; and a door unhooking line and an undercarriage unhooking line. The door unhooking line is connected to at least one undercarriage service line while the undercarriage unhooking line is connected to at least one door service line, the circuit also including means for connecting the door service lines together during a door opening stage, and means for connecting the undercarriage service lines together during an undercarriage deployment stage. |
| US08616494B2 |
Switchable vortex generator and array formed therewith, and uses of the same
The invention relates to a vortex generator (10), in particular for a model (12) in a fluid-dynamic channel. In order to save time during the development of vehicles, in particular aircraft, in particular to save wind tunnel time, it is suggested to configure the vortex generator (10) switchable. Further, the invention relates to various uses of such a switchable vortex generator (10), in particular on models in fluid-dynamic channels and in fluid-dynamic channel tests. |
| US08616490B2 |
Hand dispenser for stretch wrap
A film dispenser for dispensing stretch wrap or other flexible materials. The film dispenser is comprised of a separate inner and outer mold. The inner mold is comprised of slots and extensions, and a collar which fits into the outer mold, and inner ridges of said inner mold fit into a groove on an extended core. The outer mold is comprised of ribs which fit into the slots of the inner mold. |
| US08616488B2 |
Automatic edge guide
A web winding up or unwinding device adapted for a web-form material coating machine comprises a web roll support, the web roll support comprising a web roll changing device, and a web edge guide device, the web edge guide device comprising a sensor device adapted for determining a shifting of a lateral edge of a web of the web-form material to be wound up on or unwound from the web roll arranged on the web roll support, a web roll support displacing device adapted for laterally displacing the web roll support, and a control device adapted for controlling the sensor device and the web roll support displacing device. |
| US08616486B2 |
Continuous feed material dispenser with adjustable brake
A braking assembly used in a dispenser that dispenses a continuous supply of material such as paper. The braking assembly includes a support structure. A first fixed gear is rotatably connected to the support structure. A movable chassis is also connected to the support structure. A second movable gear is held by the chassis and moves with the chassis. Teeth of the first gear and teeth of the second gear intermesh with each other and allow the paper to pass therethrough. The chassis maintains the teeth of the first and second gears in contact with each other while enabling a distance between gears to be adjustable. The assembly further includes a braking mechanism that varies an amount of force required to rotate the gears. |
| US08616484B2 |
Seatbelt retractor
A pretensioner includes a gas generator, a pinion, a tube pipe, a piston ball, a plurality of balls, and a tube cover. The tube pipe includes a tubular part that is formed continuously from one end portion to the other end in order to receive the piston ball and the plurality of balls. A hook portion formed at the other end portion is angled toward the pinion. A tip end part of the hook portion is attached to at least one of a refractor frame and the tube cover. With this construction, a reduction in an engagement amount between the pinion and the balls during operation of the pretensioner can be prevented, and as a result, the pinion can be rotated efficiently. |
| US08616482B2 |
Kitchen appliance
A kitchen appliance comprising a base station (2) having a support surface (6) on an upper portion thereof and a rotatable drive shaft comprising a first coupling part (7) at a free end thereof. The appliance comprises a removable bowl (3) comprising a bottom part that is supported by the support surface (6) during operation and a coupling member (14) supported from said bottom part. The member comprises a second coupling part (15) for coupling with the first coupling part (7). The first coupling part (7) comprises a head (8) with an outer surface (19) with a number of first cam portions (20). The second coupling part (15) comprises a socket (16) for accommodating the head (8), the socket has an inner circumferential surface (23) with a number of second cam portions (24), said first and second cam portions (20, 24) comprise first respectively second cam faces (21, 25), which mate upon accommodation of the head (8) in the socket (16). |
| US08616479B2 |
Roller mill with driven grinding roller
A roller mill includes a grinding table arranged for rotation about a mill axis, at least one grinding roller rotated about a grinding roller axis and in rolling engagement with the grinding table, and at least one pivot lever retaining the grinding roller and having a pivot axis orientated parallel with or inclined relative to the grinding roller axis. A fixed motor is connected to the grinding roller via a drive train to transmit drive power, the drive train including a fixed drive train and a movable drive train. The fixed drive train has a drive element in contact with the movable drive train and arranged coaxially relative to the pivot axis of the pivot lever. The two drive trains may be connected to each other via two bevel wheels arranged so that the axes of the bevel wheels intersect in the pivot axis. |
| US08616476B2 |
Pulper comprising a screening sheet
An individual pulper is used and fibrous material is removed from the pulper in an optimum manner. In order to do this, the screening sheet of a pulper has openings which are disposed in various regions and have different sizes. The regions are concentric to each other. |
| US08616475B1 |
Recovery of lithium ion batteries
The present invention provides a process for recovery of copper, aluminum, carbon and cathode material from spent lithium ion batteries having lithium metal oxide cathode material. The cathode material which is recovered can be regenerated with lithium hydroxide and reused as cathode material. |
| US08616473B2 |
High flow compressed natural gas injector for automotive applications
An injector (10) includes a valve body (16), an armature tube (20) in the valve body, a seal disk (24) carried by the armature tube, a spring (30) associated with the seal disk, a seat (34) defining an outlet. The seat includes a seat surface (38) engaged with the seal disk that is biased by the spring, when the injector is in a closed position, preventing fuel from exiting the outlet. A movable armature (42) is coupled to an end of the armature tube. An adjusting tube (48) engages an end of the spring. An inlet tube (50) defining an inlet has an end surface that is spaced from the periphery of the armature in the closed position. An electromagnetic coil (58) is disposed about a portion of the inlet tube. A flux member (60) is associated with the coil. A housing (62) covers at least a portion of coil. |
| US08616469B2 |
Water-saving shower head with extension utilizing air-pressure
In the present invention, a new air-pressure utilizing water-saving shower head which takes in external air to increase the spray pressure is introduced. According to the present invention, this water-saving shower head comprises, a holding space for water inside, a body that contains an air hole at the bottom to take in the external air, the internal cross-sectional areas decreasing and then increasing, an air intake hole connecting into the air hole of the upper body, a pressure applying unit which mixes the external air coming through the air hole with the novelty of the pressure of the water flow movement, positioned at the front side of upper body and consists of an extended spray tube with multiple spray boards protruding outward. |
| US08616465B2 |
Nozzle body for a liquid droplet spray device
A nozzle body (1) for a liquid droplet spray device is disclosed, wherein the nozzle body is arranged to receive a liquid substance from the liquid droplet spray device, wherein the nozzle body includes: (a) a substrate (2), and (b) a plurality of traversing output nozzles (4, 24, 34) formed in the substrate (2, 22, 32) for ejecting liquid as a low pressure mono-dispersive droplet spray, wherein each traversing output nozzle is arranged to receive the liquid such that the liquid may be expelled from the nozzle body by traversing the output nozzles, wherein the output nozzles (4, 24, 34) have straight and parallel side-walls that have a near vertical profile. The output nozzles are arranged in the substrate such that the density of the output nozzles increases from the center towards the edges of the substrate. |
| US08616462B2 |
Water conserving domestic hot water purge valve
A purge valve comprising a valve body having a valve inlet and a valve outlet and a water flow passage between the valve inlet and the valve outlet; first valve means adapted to set the valve in open position by opening the water flow passage in response to a user's action; second valve means adapted to hold the valve in open position if and until the water flowing through the water flow passage is below a predetermined temperature; third valve means adapted to automatically set the valve in close position when the water flowing through the water flow passage is at the predetermined temperature; and, fourth valve means adapted to alert the user that the valve has closed and water having the predetermined temperature is available at the valve inlet. |
| US08616459B2 |
Suspendable packages with radio frequency identification
A product that comprises a mounting hole or a preform for the mounting hole and a radio frequency identification transponder for wireless identification, said transponder comprising at least an integrated circuit and wiring, wherein the wiring of the transponder at least partly encircles the mounting hole or the preform, is disclosed. The product may be configured to break when the product is ripped between the mounting hole and an edge of the product. Furthermore, the product may operate in two modes depending on whether or not an electrically conductive object is penetrating the mounting hole, and may be configured to be suspended in connection with an electrically conductive hanger by using the mounting hole. In addition, a method to produce such a product is disclosed. To facilitate a different reading distance or operating frequency for a suspended and a free product, a method to change the operating frequency or the reading distance of a radio frequency identification transponder of at least one product comprising a mounting hole is, wherein the method comprises penetrating an electrically conductive object through the mounting hole, is disclosed. In addition, for the electronic article surveillance purposes, a reader device configured to communicate with a radio frequency identification transponder of at least one product comprising a mounting hole wherein the reader device comprises an antenna configured to penetrate the mounting hole is disclosed. |
| US08616449B2 |
Mobile device search mechanism
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. |
| US08616448B2 |
System and method for managing wireless point-of-sale transactions
A system that enables a wireless point-of-sale transaction. In one embodiment the system comprises an account module, an account selection module, a display, an input interface, and a wireless transmitter. The account module stores account information corresponding to a plurality of payment accounts. The account selection module selects a payment account from the plurality of payment accounts as a default payment account for a wireless point-of-sale transaction based on one or more predetermined criteria. The display displays the default payment account to a user. The input interface enables the user to accept the default payment account by the account selection module. The wireless transmitter that wirelessly transmits payment information to a point-of-sale device, wherein the payment information comprises account information associated with the default account when the default payment account is accepted via the input interface. |
| US08616447B2 |
Kiosk
A kiosk has a transaction terminal which is suspended between a pair of uprights. A cover is rotatably positionable between a closed position and an opened position to allow access to said terminal. The cover has a transparent, arcuate hood-like shape. The cover is maintainable in a stable opened position and is automatically returnable to the closed position. A solar array and/or communication equipment may be located above the transaction terminal. |
| US08616446B2 |
Dynamic identity matching in response to threat levels
A dynamic identity matching facility that enables an operator to determine the status of an individual based on identification information contained on an identification record provided by the individual. The operator scans the individual's identification information from the identification record using a scanning device. The facility decodes the scanned identification information and identifies a number of candidates based on the decoded identification information. For each identified candidate, the facility generates a candidate score. Based on the candidate score of each identified candidate, the facility selects a number of the identified candidates for display. The facility displays the selected candidates to the operator along with the candidate's criminal or other acts. |
| US08616445B2 |
Method and system for end user verification of controlled substances
A portable electronic device includes an image capture module that captures a digital image of a symbology that is affixed to a regulated product. The device decodes the symbology to identify an end user functional element which has a public component and a law enforcement component. If the device has received a law enforcement official verification, then the device may use the law enforcement component of the functional element to take a first action. If the device has not received the law enforcement official verification, then the processor device may use the public component of the functional element to take a second action. |
| US08616437B2 |
IC card and IC card system having suspend/resume functions
An IC card and an IC card system are disclosed in which command processing performance is improved by storing current state data related to a first command upon interruption of an execution cycle for the first command by a second command. Upon completion of the second command, the current state information is reloaded and execution of the first command is resumed. |
| US08616432B1 |
Welding purge dam for high air flow environment
A water-degradable purge dam apparatus for purging a weld zone of a pipe assembly comprising first and second pipes having respective first and second ends. A first purge dam subassembly adapted for installation in the first pipe end has a hollow first conduit defining a first air flow pathway. A second purge dam subassembly adapted for installation in the second pipe end has a hollow second conduit defining a second air flow pathway. Each subassembly has one or more air flow blocking plates. A hollow third conduit, defining a third air flow pathway, is interconnectable to the first and second conduits members to span the weld zone. The first, second and third air flow pathways allow pressurized air within the pipes to pass through the purge dam apparatus and the weld zone in a sequestered by-pass zone defined by the first, second and third conduits. |
| US08616430B2 |
Interlocking buttress material retention system
A surgical stapler is provided having a pair of jaws including a staple containing cartridge and an anvil. Buttress material is releasable affixed to the staple containing cartridge and the anvil. One of the jaws includes a pair of longitudinal projections at a first end of the jaw and configured to frictionally engage corresponding slots in a first end the buttress material. One of the jaws includes a post at a second end of the jaw. The buttress material includes a hole in a second end of the buttress material for receipt of the post. |
| US08616428B2 |
Surgical tilt anvil assembly
An anvil and anvil delivery system is provided which includes a head assembly and a center rod defining a longitudinal axis. The head assembly defines a transverse axis and is pivotally secured to the rod and movable from an operative position wherein the transverse axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a tilted position wherein the transverse axis defines an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. A flexible tube is secured to the center rod which includes gradations along the length of the tube. The gradations are positioned to provide an indication of a length of the tube remaining in a patient during removal of the tube from the patient. An adapter is secured to one end of the flexible tube and to the center rod. The adapter is configured to secure the anvil assembly to the flexible tube. |
| US08616425B2 |
Vehicle trim panel with clothes hanger feature
A trim panel for an interior upper surface of a roof of a vehicle includes a plurality of hanging features disposed thereon. Each of the hanging features includes a slot defined by the trim panel, and a hanging portion extending across the slot. The hanging portion is configured to support a clothes hanger thereon. The trim panel may extend laterally across a width of the vehicle, transverse to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and may be disposed adjacent a rear closure assembly, such as a hatchback of an SUV or other similar vehicle. |
| US08616422B2 |
Cantilevered snap fit case
A case for holding an electronic device includes a body having a void for holding the electronic device. The void approximately replicates the shape of the electronic device such that a face of the electronic device is not substantially surrounded by the body. The body has tabs configured to contact a portion of the face of the electronic device and hold the electronic device in the void such that it is held in place. The body has a flexible body portion, the flexible body portion defined by a cut in the body, dividing the body into a hinge portion and a main body. The hinge portion is configured to be flexed away from the main body to provide a direction that the electronic device is slidably removed. |
| US08616419B2 |
Reusable containers
A reusable container having a body with an inlet, and an outlet provided with an elongate dispensing spout mounted for pivotal movement between a first position, where the spout overlies a portion of the body, and a second position, where the spout extends away from the body. A valve adjacent the first end of the spout prevents passage of liquid from the body into the spout when the spout is in the first position and allows passage of liquid from the body into the spout when the spout is in the second position. The valve changes between first and second conditions in response to pivotal movement of the spout. The spout includes a first locating portion which engages a second locating portion on the body to retain the spout in the first position. A second valve adjacent the spout is biased to a closed state by a resilient element. |
| US08616418B2 |
Liquid dispensing device equipped with a sealing component
A liquid dispensing device including a sealing component which can take up a liquid release position and a liquid blocking position. The sealing component includes an elastomer part and a rigid part, these parts being fastened to each other when moving. |
| US08616416B2 |
Delivery head
A delivery head and a delivery device having a delivery head, wherein a pivotable actuating element is provided in order to open an outlet valve when the delivery head is actuated. The actuating element is provided with a valve element in order to forcibly open the outlet valve by pivoting the actuating element and/or to move the valve element on a circular path. |
| US08616412B2 |
Beverage dispensing system with a head capable of dispensing plural different beverages
A beverage dispensing system includes a base to which a dispensing head is removably attached without additional fasteners. Beverage-forming liquids are supplied through a plurality of separate conduits in the base. Each base conduit has a normally closed valve that normally blocks fluid flow. The dispensing head has at least one passageway that receives liquid from an associated one of the base conduits. A projection associated with each dispensing head passageway opens the associated conduit valve to allow fluid flow from the base to the head. Dispensing valves in the dispensing head regulate the dispensing of the beverage. By selectively opening the dispensing valves, a plurality of beverages are formed from combinations of one or more liquids. A dispensing head includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening at each end of a passage extending through a body, the inlet opening having a smaller cross-sectional area than the outlet opening. |
| US08616411B1 |
Collapsible tube retaining device
A device for use in dispensing the contents of a collapsible tube comprises a hollow cylindrical member for winding about the tube. The cylindrical member includes an elongated slot for receiving a tail portion of the collapsible tube, as well as a plurality of notches positioned along a periphery of a first end of the cylindrical member. An elastic flexible tether anchors to a second end of the cylindrical member. The tether is positionable between at least one of the plurality of notches contained within the first end of the cylindrical member. After winding, the tether is stretched and positioned between a selected notch, thereby securing the tether to the first end of the cylindrical member and retaining the thusly wound tube in a selected position. The hollow cylinder may also include a floss dispensing member positionable therein, as well as act as a storage compartment. |
| US08616410B2 |
Apparatus for dosing powdery or granulated materials in capsules or the like
Apparatus for dosing powdery or granulated materials in capsules, or the like. The apparatus comprises an engine associated with a transducer controlling chuting means. The engine imparts to the chuting means movements which are proportional to an electric signal controlled by an electronic control unit. The movements of the chuting means, together with the regulation of the spatial position assumed by the chuting means, are such to accurately dose the powdery or granulated material in the bases of the capsules. |
| US08616406B1 |
Flip-top preform for blow molding
A preform for blow molding a plastic container with a flip-top closure includes a container portion and a flip-top closure base portion integrally molded with the container portion. The flip-top closure base portion includes an integrally molded first hinge structure for connecting the flip-top closure base portion to a flip-top closure top to create the flip-top closure for the container. |
| US08616405B2 |
Drink cup lid
A lid is configured to mate with a brim of a cup to form a liquid container. The lid is formed to include a liquid-discharge outlet so that consumers can drink liquid stored in the cup while the lid is mounted on the brim of the cup. The lid comprises a ring-shaped brim mount adapted to mate with the brim of a cup and a central closure surrounded by the ring-shaped brim mount, wherein the central closure includes channel means for conducting any overflow liquid leaking inadvertently out of a cup coupled to the drink cup lid through the liquid-discharge outlet into the raised-liquid collection region formed in the elevated basin downwardly along a first predetermined path on an exterior surface of the elevated basin into the ring-shaped low-elevation liquid-retention channel. |
| US08616403B2 |
Fuel filler port device of fuel tank for straddled vehicle
Disclosed is a fuel filler port device that is of a fuel tank for a straddled vehicle and that can utilize the upper space of the fuel tank without leading to an increase in size of a fuel filler guide tube. The fuel filler port device (60) of a fuel tank for a straddled vehicle is provided with: a fuel filler guide tube (61) that extends from the fuel filler port (53) provided to the upper wall of the fuel tank (16) to the interior of the fuel tank (16), and a flame arrester (62) that is disposed at the bottom of the fuel filler guide tube (61); and the flame arrester (62) is provided in a manner allowing a nozzle (N) of a fuel gun inserted from the fuel filler port (53) to be inserted lower than the upper end of the flame arrester (62). |
| US08616400B2 |
Opening device and method for manufacturing the same, and a packaging container provided with said opening device
An opening device for a packaging container comprises two operational parts: a membrane part ensuring a secure seal of the packaging container and a support part ensuring rigidity for the opening device. The opening device is characterized in that a membrane portion of the membrane part is mechanically attached to the support part to operate as one piece during opening of the packaging container, and the materials of the membrane part and the support part are thermally incompatible. |
| US08616395B2 |
Hot-fill container having vacuum accommodating base and cylindrical portions
A container body and base being lightweight structures designed to accommodate vacuum forces either simultaneously or in sequence. The container body and base each absorb a significant percentage of the vacuum. By utilizing a lightweight base design to absorb a portion of the vacuum forces enables an overall light-weighting, design flexibility, and effective utilization of alternative vacuum absorbing capabilities on the container body. |
| US08616394B2 |
Container cap
An aspect of the invention provides a container cap. The container cap comprises a cap, a handling outer portion, and connecting walls. The cap has a closed end and an open end. The handling outer portion encloses the cap and including recesses and a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of connecting walls connect an outer wall of the cap and an inner wall of the handling outer portion, wherein the connecting walls are disposed radially. The voids are provided between the outer wall of the cap, the inner wall of the holding outer portion, and the connecting walls. |
| US08616393B2 |
Medication delivery control systems and methods
Drug delivery systems and methods involve associating unique keys to patients. Medication intended for a patient is then locked in a container that may only be unlocked with the particular unique key associated with that patient or a master key. The master key may have a counter to count the number of times that it is used, so as to discourage unnecessary use of the master key. The medication containers may be locked with template locks that are subsequently encoded to be unlocked by a particular unique key. |
| US08616392B2 |
Anti-filling anti-spill device for bottleneck, composite sealing cap including said device
Anti-filling device to be attached to the neck of a bottle to be closed by a sealing cap, including attachment means for attachment to the bottleneck, a chamber including a lower lip surrounding a lower orifice and confining a moveable part which forms a valve in conjunction with the lower lip, and an axial distribution duct. The device further includes a moveable axial rod, secured to the anti-filling device, the axial movement of which relative to the device is limited between a low position and a high position, and at least one stopper which is in engagement with the moveable axial rod such that, when the moveable axial rod is located in the low position, the stopper shuts an orifice which is arranged in the chamber. The low position is imposed by a projection attached to the cap, which comes into contact with the moveable axial rod when the cap is attached to the bottleneck. |
| US08616391B2 |
Teat
A teat has a main body, a mouthpiece with a suction opening, and at least one milk channel extending from the main body to the suction opening. During use, the mouthpiece has an upper side directed towards a palate of a baby, and a lower side directed towards the baby's tongue. It is designed, on its upper side, with at least two walls, and with at least one air space arranged between said walls. The at least one air space extends separately from the at least one milk channel. The mouthpiece is designed on the upper side in such a way that this at least one air space inflates in the presence of an underpressure. This allows the palate, tongue and teat to interact in a manner that imitates breastfeeding. |
| US08616390B2 |
Triple chamber bottle and method of manufacturing the same
A bottle including a body portion having a plurality of dividing walls extending from a base portion to a plurality of connection regions; a first chamber for holding a first liquid; a second chamber for holding a second liquid; a third chamber for holding a third liquid; and a removable cap; wherein a height of the plurality of dividing walls is less than an overall height of the body portion and the plurality of connection regions are configured to be a maximum height of the plurality of dividing walls. |
| US08616389B2 |
Over-center spring coupler
A mating cam coupler device includes a coupler head having a first lateral portion and a second lateral portion. A male cam is associated with the first lateral portion. A male cam locking mechanism is disposed within the first lateral portion and is operably connected with the male cam. A female cam is associated with the second lateral portion. A female cam locking mechanism is disposed within the second lateral portion and is operably connected with the female cam. The male cam is positioned to engage the female cam of an opposing coupler and the female cam is positioned to engage the male cam of the opposing coupler and operation of the male cam locking mechanism is triggered by engagement of the male cam with the opposing female cam and operation of the female cam locking mechanism is triggered by engagement of the female cam with the opposing male cam. |
| US08616388B2 |
Adjustable shelving assembly
A shelving assembly including a frame including a plurality of support columns. A shelf unit includes a plurality of sides disposed inside the frame. A gear assembly is disposed adjacent to one of the plurality of sides of the shelf unit. The gear assembly includes a drive shaft, a translational shaft and a translational gear disposed on a distal end of the translational shaft. A vertically-extending toothed rack is positioned on the frame. The vertically-extending toothed rack is operably engaged with the translational gear such that rotation of the drive shaft causes rotation of the translational shaft and rotation of the translational gear, which results in vertical translation of the shelf unit. |
| US08616385B1 |
Dugout organization system
The present invention features a dugout organization system for baseball or softball equipment for use by a participant in a dugout. The system features a generally planar chain link fence panel located in an erect position having a plurality of formed chain link fence wires intertwined to form a mesh chain link fence surface. The system features a base member having a top attachment tongue that projects out and away from a base posterior surface. The top attachment tongue features a top attachment tongue first groove located on a top attachment tongue first side and a top attachment tongue second groove located on an opposing top attachment tongue second side. The base member flares from the top attachment tongue forming a first side shoulder on a base first side and a second side shoulder on a base second side and then tapers approaching a base bottom. |
| US08616384B1 |
Bag clip strip
A rigid strip attached to a vertical surface provides a plurality of ball socket clips which independently hold a balled end of a bag clip to independently retain each bag clip upon the common surface of the strip, the strip being attachable to a vertical surface in a location desired to store a plurality of bags, with each clip being maintained on each attached bag due to each balled end being withdrawn from each respective ball socket clip without disruption of the clip from the retained bag. |
| US08616382B2 |
Server rack
A server rack includes a rectangular rack frame, and two mounting brackets. The rack frame includes four support posts. Each post includes a side attachment flange parallel to a lengthwise direction of the rack frame, and an end attachment flange parallel to a transverse direction of the rack frame. The rack frame defines an access in a front of the rack frame for a server unit sliding into or out of the rack frame. Each of the mounting brackets can be selectively fixed between the side attachment flanges of the corresponding support posts to support the server unit, or between the end attachment flanges of the corresponding support posts to shield the access, thereby preventing air from flowing through the access to decrease heat dissipation efficiency. |
| US08616378B2 |
Method and equipment for conditioning scrap high in plastics
In a method and to an arrangement for treating a light fraction produced during the treatment of plastic-rich waste that is low in metal, at least the following steps are carried out consecutively: the light fraction is stressed by percussion and/or bashing, the light fraction is classified into at least two light fraction classes, at least one light fraction class is separated into at least one dust fraction and at least one other fraction, the separation of the dust fraction taking place over a substantially controlled residence time of the light fraction class in at least one device involved in the separation. Due to the separation of at least one light fraction class into at least one dust fraction and at least one other fraction, the separation of the dust fraction takes place over a substantially controlled residence time of the light fraction class in at least one device involved in the separation, a very pure intermediate product (intermediate fraction) is produced, providing the processability of the intermediate product to be improved in subsequent method steps. Overall, clearly improved material recycling and also energy recovery is obtained. |
| US08616376B2 |
Child resistant container
A container of opening a container is provided. The container includes an outer shell slidably carrying a dispensing cartridge between open and closed states. A cooperating catch arrangement is operably interposed between the outer shell and the dispensing cartridge. The cooperating catch arrangement has a locked state that fixes the dispensing cartridge in the closed state relative to the outer shell and an unlocked state in which the dispensing cartridge is permitted to slide relative to the outer shell from the closed state to the open state. The cooperating catch arrangement is operable to be transitioned from the locked state to the unlocked state by resiliently reducing a width of the outer shell along a compression axis which resiliently expands a thickness of the outer shell along an expansion axis to disengage cooperating catch arrangement. A method of opening includes compressing the outer shell to disengage the cooperating catch arrangement. |
| US08616375B2 |
Packets for treating chemistry
A dishwasher treating packet for use in a dishwasher having a treating chamber comprising a body defining a reservoir, a treating chemistry in the reservoir, and a manual dispenser coupled to the reservoir and selectively operable to dispense at least a portion of the treating chemistry from the reservoir. |
| US08616374B2 |
Pouch having tear strip
A pouch for containing a product, the pouch comprising a first wall (6) and a second wall (8), the first wall and second wall being sealed together in sealed regions (10), the sealed regions substantially surrounding a compartment (12) including a product portion within which a product (2) can be located, the first wall (6) comprising a tear strip (16) extending towards at least a part of the compartment, the tear strip (16) including a tab portion (18) at a proximal end, the tab portion (18) is separated from the compartment region (12) by a sealed region and is located away from edges of the pouch, the tear strip having tear guiding regions (24, 26) in the first wall (6) at first and second opposing edges, the pouch being arranged such that the tab portion (18) can be grasped and a removal force exerted thereon to cause a tear to extend along each of the tear guiding regions (24, 26) so that at least a portion of the tear strip (16) is torn away from the pouch to render the compartment (12) accessible. |
| US08616373B2 |
Reclosable display package and method of use
A reclosable package for packaging an article is provided with a plastic door component and a separate tray that cooperate to form an article containing cavity. The tray may be manufactured from a paper pulp material, such as molded pulp. The door component and tray may be installed between a pair of panels. The door component may include a door portion and a flange portion joined along a hinge. The flange portion may be sandwiched between the panels to hold the door component in place. The door portion may be movable about the hinge to allow the package to be opened and closed. The door portion may interface with the door panel in a way that resists movement of the door portion between the open position and the closed position. The door portion may include snap elements configured to have an interference fit with the door panel. |
| US08616372B2 |
Recyclable blister pack and process of making
A recyclable blister pack system is provided, including a substrate having a dry tack cohesive adhesive layer deposited on one of its surfaces and a blister layer for receiving a product. The properties of the dry tack cohesive are selected so the blister layer is separable from the substrate without leaving substantial substrate residue on the blister layer. This improves the recyclability of the blister layer. |
| US08616371B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesive tape package
A pressure-sensitive adhesive tape package is described in which while easiness in applying the adhesive tape is pursued, an effect of saving in resources can be obtained. The pressure-sensitive adhesive tape package accommodates an adhesive tape having a support and an adhesive agent layer provided on one surface of the support, and includes a release sheet releasably attached to the adhesive agent layer. Moreover, in the pressure-sensitive adhesive tape package, the release sheet is bent along a predetermined bending line with the adhesive tape, and the adhesive tape is sealed inside of the bent release sheet. |
| US08616369B2 |
Golf bag base
A golf bag is disclosed that includes base formed of a flexible material, such as a polymer foam material. The base is formed as a one-piece element, and the base may be flexible such that the golf bag is supportable in an upright position or an inclined position. A flexion line may be formed in the base to promote flexing or pivoting in a specific area, and wear elements may be added to an exterior surface of the base to impart wear-resistance. |
| US08616365B2 |
Double-sealed, bearingless, reciprocating conveyor with slat-supporting guide trough subdecks
A reciprocating slat conveyor includes a plurality of laterally and substantially parallel longitudinal trough-like subdecks and a plurality of longitudinal slats adjacent to and parallel to each other. The slats are in a sliding relationship with a pair of adjacent subdecks and cover the longitudinal space between the pair of adjacent subdecks. The subdecks longitudinally support two adjacent slats at or near a slat longitudinal side edge. The subdecks conduct the movement of the slats, preferably without distinct bearing elements therebetween. Some preferred embodiments include raised double-seal system. |
| US08616363B1 |
Machine for stacking split firewood
Apparatus for stacking sticks of split-firewood has a drum with interior flights as well as a ramp and chute which do not rotate with the drum. The flights partition the inside wall of the drum into a procession of shelves and pockets. Each shelf extends radially between the drum sidewall and an inner edge. The ramp is mounted inside the drum and has an axially extending upper edge disposed to be spaced by a small gap from the shelf edges at about 9 o'clock relative clockwise rotation of the drum. The chute is also mounted partly inside the drum slopes from a top to a discharge end. The chute is mounted relative to the ramp to form a catch zone for sticks sliding off the ramp inside the drum. The chute furthermore extends outside the drum to discharge sticks of split firewood in neat stacks there. |
| US08616362B1 |
Spatially modulated magnetic fields for part selection and alignment on a conveyor belt
A conveyor belt with integrated spatially-modulated magnetic arrays and a vibrating device, and a method for use thereof are described, for sorting and aligning parts. A part which is to be sorted and aligned is provided with a spatially-modulated magnetic array that is complementary to that which is integrated into the conveyor belt. The vibrating device assures that parts placed in arbitrary locations on the conveyor belt will be sufficiently moved to come into magnetic proximity with the magnetic arrays integrated into the conveyor belt. A system of multiple conveyor belts for sorting and/or aligning a number of different parts is disclosed. |
| US08616360B2 |
Lockable removable cassette
A lockable, removable cassette is described. In an implementation, the cassette includes a plastic shell and a currency access door. The cassette may also include a flexible handle and/or an integrated grip. In addition, the cassette may include at least one of an aperture and a transparent window positioned to reveal the contents of the cassette. In an implementation, the cassette includes a stacking mechanism which may include a drive means having non-circular drive gears. |
| US08616356B2 |
Friction clutch device comprising double damping flywheel having secondary assembly fixedly mounted axially relative to reaction plate
A friction clutch device for coupling a first rear motor shaft to a second front forced shaft by allowing free relative axial displacement between the two shafts. The clutch device includes a double shock-absorbing steering wheel having a primary couple input assembly which is fixedly mounted axially to the motor shaft, a secondary couple output assembly which is rotatably connected to a reactive plate of the clutch device which is supported by the forced shaft. An elastic circumferential action member is arranged in a cavity that is peripheral to the primary assembly to rotatably connect the secondary assembly, with circumferential shock absorption, to the primary assembly. The secondary assembly is fixedly mounted axially relative to the reactive plate. |
| US08616355B2 |
Hydraulic control device for automatic transmission
A hydraulic control device used in an automatic transmission includes an oil pump, a working pressure regulating portion, a first lubricant supply passage, a lockup switch mechanism, and a second lubricant supply passage. The oil pump is driven in accordance with rotation of a driving source. The working pressure regulating portion regulates a working pressure based on an oil pressure generated by the oil pump. The first lubricant supply passage supplies a back pressure of the working pressure to a lubricant passage. The lockup switch mechanism turns on/off a lockup clutch of the automatic transmission by switching a supply/discharge path of the working pressure to/from a fluid transmission apparatus of the automatic transmission. The second lubricant supply passage supplies the working pressure to the lubricant passage and is disconnected when a lockup clutch of the automatic transmission is turned on by the lockup switch mechanism. |
| US08616353B2 |
Device for damping the vibration of a structure
A device (10) for damping the vibration of a structure is provided. The device includes a main mass (12) and an auxiliary mass (20) mounted on a support (11) that is suitable for having one end held fixedly in the structure (1). The auxiliary mass (20) includes a threaded member (21) arranged around a drive screw (40) inside a casing (30) fastened to the main mass (12). The device includes manual drive (50) engaging the drive screw (40) to move the auxiliary mass (20) along the drive screw (40). |
| US08616351B2 |
Damper with digital valve
A shock absorber has a compression valve assembly that provides a high damping load during a compression stroke and an extension valve assembly that provides a high damping load during an extension stroke. One or more digital valve assemblies is positioned to work in parallel with the compression valve assembly and the extension valve assembly to provide a lower damping load. The lowering of the damping load is based upon the cross sectional area of flow passages provided by the one or more digital valve assemblies. |
| US08616349B2 |
Disc brake
A disc brake to receive a disc and a brake pad. The disc brake includes an inner pad to produce friction with one side of a disc, an outer pad to produce friction with an opposite side of the disc, and a caliper housing including a cylinder part provided therein with a cylinder to receive a piston to press the inner pad and a finger part provided in front of the cylinder part to press the outer pad. The caliper housing includes a spacer to variably change an interval between the cylinder part and the finger part. |
| US08616348B2 |
Combined vehicle brake with electromechanically operable parking brake and gear for converting a rotary movement into a translational movement
A combined vehicle brake including a hydraulically actuated service brake and an electromechanically actuated parking brake device, a hydraulic operating pressure chamber in a brake housing being defined by a brake piston, which for performing service braking actions can be acted upon by hydraulic pressure fluid, so that the brake piston can be actuated along a piston longitudinal axis in order to produce a braking action, and the parking brake device acting on the brake piston by way of a transmission that translates the rotary motion of an electromechanical actuator into a translational motion and actuates the brake piston to perform parking brake actions and to keep it in the actuated position. Also disclosed is a transmission for translating a rotary motion into a translational motion by way of a screw spindle and a spindle nut, which are in contact with one another by way of multiple rolling elements. |
| US08616346B2 |
Electric disc brake
Disclosed is an electric disc brake including a reduction unit having a transmission function. The electric disc brake includes a piston in the caliper housing such that the piston is movable back and forth to press one frictional pad, a spindle unit including a nut spindle member allowing the piston to move back and forth and a spindle member screwed with the nut spindle member, and a reduction unit coaxially coupled with the spindle unit, and a motor rotating the reduction unit forward and backward. The reduction unit includes a sun gear coupled with a shaft of the motor, a planet gear, a carrier coupled with the planet gear to rotate the spindle member, and first and second internal gears engaged with the planet gear to amplify a rotational force of the motor or transfer the rotational force of the motor to the spindle member without a reduction gear ratio. |
| US08616343B2 |
Linear stopper
A linear stopper including a stopper body having an inclined surface with a wedge-like space between the inclined surface and a surface of the guide member with a gap decreasing gradually toward one side of an extending direction of the guide member; rolling elements that are arranged in said wedge-like space so as to be rollable therein; and rolling element pressing means that presses the rolling elements in a direction to bite into the wedge-like space, so that the rolling elements are forced into pressure contact with the surface of the guide member and the inclined surface of the stopper body. A one-way stopper mechanism restricts the relative movement of the stopper body with respect to said guide member toward a side at which the gap in the wedge-like space is large, but allows the relative movement toward a side at which the gap in the wedge-like space is small. |
| US08616338B2 |
Management of power from multiple sources based on elevator usage patterns
Power distribution is managed in an elevator system including an elevator hoist motor (12), a primary power supply (20), and—an energy storage system (32). A predicted usage pattern for the hoist motor is established based on past hoist motor power demand in the elevator system or in similar elevator systems in similar buildings. A target storage state for the energy storage system is then set based on the predicted usage pattern. Power exchanged between the hoist motor, the primary power supply, and the energy storage system is controlled to address power demand of the hoist motor and to maintain the storage state of the energy storage system at about the target storage state. |
| US08616337B1 |
Automotive lift system
A four post automotive lift system is disclosed wherein each post contains a locking mechanism and adjustable lifting points. Each pair of posts has a transverse beam that is secured by the locking mechanisms and supports the weight of the vehicle. Each of the four posts are positioned on the floor and supported by a structure on the outside side of the lifting device. Each pair of posts on ether side of the vehicle is tied together by a supporting structure. The beam supporting the vehicle is lifted at each of the four posts by a simple lifting device and then locked in place on the post by the locking mechanism. The adjustable lifting point can be placed anywhere along the four posts to extend the range of the simple lifting device as the vehicle is lifted to different heights. |
| US08616336B2 |
Method for a ladder with a ladder leveler
A method for setting a ladder in place includes the steps of leaning a top edge of the ladder against a work surface and swivel shoes on the bottom end of each leg of the ladder onto ground, positioning the ladder until a bubble of a rung of the ladder indicates a level reading. The method also includes the steps of sliding a rectangular closed box section metal leg having a cap which acts as a stop in an upper housing portion, the upper housing portion has two holes side by side, and a lower housing portion spaced apart from the upper housing portion of a housing of the leg attached to a rail of the ladder and inserting a holder through a hole of the two holes of the upper housing portion and a hole of two rows of holes which are set side by side but offset vertically from each other and extend through the leg. |
| US08616332B2 |
Portable vehicle-stabilized mast and fall protection system
Deployable fall protection systems and components are disclosed for protecting against worker falls in cargo handling operations. Workers wearing harnesses are attached to a lifeline supported from overhead, the support being attached to ground-standing mast assemblies stabilized by the weight of a vehicle parked on a foot portion of the mast assembly. |
| US08616329B1 |
Air coupled acoustic aperiodic flat lens
A broadband acoustic lens and method of designing same is provided for focusing an incident acoustic wave. The broadband lens includes a plurality of concentric rings, where each concentric ring of the plurality of concentric rings has a ring width, and a plurality of gaps, where each gap of the plurality of gaps has a spacing. The concentric rings are separated by a spacing corresponding to a gap of the plurality of gaps. The widths of the plurality of concentric rings and the spacings of the plurality of gaps are arranged such that the incident acoustic wave is focused to a spot within a sub-wavelength of the incident acoustic wave in air. The arrangement of the widths of the plurality of concentric rings and spacings of the plurality of gaps is aperiodic. |
| US08616328B2 |
Method and apparatus for wave generation and detection using tensegrity structures
A tensegrity apparatus having multiple tensegrity units for the transmission of solitary waves with adjustable profiles into a material or structure, and the detection of such waves from a material or structure. |
| US08616327B1 |
Portable media player sound deflecting assembly
A portable media player sound deflecting assembly includes a panel that has a front side, a back side, a first edge, a second edge, a bottom edge and an upper edge. A first lateral flange is attached to the first edge. The first lateral flange has a first side abutting the front side. The first lateral flange is angled forward of the front side such that an obtuse angle is formed with the front side and the first lateral edge. The first lateral edge deflects sound from a personal sound emitting apparatus forward of the panel when the personal sound emitting apparatus is positioned on the front side. |
| US08616325B1 |
Drive shaft damper assembly
A drive shaft damper assembly installed onto a drive shaft bearing secured to a drive shaft mounted to a vehicle. The drive shaft bearing assembly includes a bearing collar assembly securely attached to the drive shaft bearing. The drive shaft damper assembly also includes an inner damper assembly, interconnected to the bearing collar assembly, which defines an inner bushing interface, and an outer damper assembly defining an outer bushing interface. A bushing assembly is disposed in an operative engagement between the inner and outer damper assemblies, wherein each of a plurality of bushing members are individually interconnected between the inner bushing interface and the outer bushing interface via corresponding bushing fasteners, the bushing members being removable and replaceable to permit tuning of the operation of the drive shaft. A mounting mechanism is structured to securely attach the outer damper assembly to a portion of the vehicle. |
| US08616322B2 |
Hybrid working machine
Since a stand including a plurality of supports and a top plate is built in on one side of a rear part of an upper frame of an upper rotating body as seen from an operator in a cabin, and a power storage device is installed on the top plate of this stand, the power storage device is arranged at the highest position among all the devices mounted in the upper rotating body. The power storage device is made up of a main body and a casing, and cooled down by taking cooling air into the casing. |
| US08616321B2 |
Control apparatus for motor-assisted bicycle
A control apparatus for a motor-assisted bicycle detects a pedaling torque applied to a crankshaft with a pedaling force sensor, controls a motor unit of the motor-assisted bicycle in a regenerative control process to charge a battery if the torque value of the detected pedaling torque is equal to or smaller than a predetermined level, and controls the motor unit in an assistive control process if the torque value is greater than the predetermined level. The control apparatus includes a storage unit for storing an assisted state and a regenerated state in a single event of use of the motor-assisted bicycle by a user, and a control quantity corrector for correcting a control quantity of the assistive control process and a control quantity of the regenerative control process based on the assisted state and the regenerated state which are stored in the storage unit. |
| US08616316B2 |
Forward structure of a motor vehicle
A forward structure of a motor vehicle is provided that includes, but is not limited to a drive unit and a radiator arrangement for releasing the heat of the drive unit into the environment. The radiator arrangement encompasses at least two cooling unit, which are spatially separated from one another and which are arranged so as to overlap at least area by area in cross direction of the motor vehicle. An imaginary connecting line between the cooling units crosses at least one component of the drive unit. |
| US08616315B2 |
Electric motor and electric vehicle having the same
An electric motor includes a case, a stator disposed in an interior of the case, a rotor including a shaft disposed to be rotatable with respect to the stator, and an oil circulator to contact with oil that is accommodated or stored at the interior of the case, the oil circulator may disperse at least a portion of the oil when the rotor rotates with respect to the stator. Accordingly, outputs can be improved by restraining an increase in the temperature of components. |
| US08616311B2 |
Electrical storage device
An electrical storage device includes: a conductive battery house casing electrically connected to a chassis; a plurality of battery cells held in the battery house casing; and a control unit that comprises a circuit that manages the plurality of battery cells and is mounted on the battery house casing so that a negative terminal of the circuit and the battery house casing are electrically conducting. |
| US08616310B2 |
Apparatus for farming, gardening and landscaping
The instant invention is an electric machine/tractor particularly intended for farming, gardening and landscaping and is nonpolluting and self charging. The tractor accommodates standard farm implements and can supply electrical power to remote areas. To achieve these goals, the machine is comprised of a frame and wheels which are driven independently by hydraulic motors powered by a variable volume, hydrostatic pump that is driven in line, by an electric motor that also drives a hydraulic lift pump and a power-take-off shaft through belts. The hydrostatic pump is controlled by the operator for forward and reverse motion. The electric motor is powered by batteries and the batteries can be recharged by an on-board photoelectric panel. A combination charger/inverter is located aboard the tractor to charge the batteries from any 110V A.C. power outlet or generate 110V A.C. electrical power from the tractor. |
| US08616309B2 |
Wheelchair
A front wheel drive powered wheelchair is provided and may include a support frame, a pair of opposing drive wheels, a pair of drives, and a pair of rear wheels. The frame may include a front portion, a seat post, and two independent arms extending rearward from the front portion. Each drive wheel may be coupled to the front portion of the frame. Each drive may be mounted to the front portion of the frame and may be operatively connected to a respective drive wheel of the pair of drive wheels. Each rear wheel may be coupled to a respective independent arm of the support frame. Each independent arm may be capable of flexing independent of the other. |
| US08616307B2 |
Thermally stable diamond bonded materials and compacts
Thermally stable diamond bonded construction comprise a diamond bonded body including a thermally stable region, comprising a plurality of diamond grains bonded together by a reaction product of the diamond grains with a reactant such as Si, and a polycrystalline diamond region, comprising intercrystalline bonded diamond and a catalyst material. The body further comprises a ceramic compound formed by reaction of an Nb, Zr, Ti, or Mo getter material with a gaseous element generated during HPHT sintering of the diamond bonded body. The diamond bonded body may comprise from 0.1 to 15 percent by weight of the ceramic compound. The diamond bonded body can be formed during a single HPHT process operated at different temperatures when the reactant has a melting temperature above the catalyst material. The construction may include a metallic substrate attached to the diamond bonded body to facilitate use as a wear or cutting element. |
| US08616304B2 |
Bearing assemblies, and bearing apparatuses using the same
Various embodiments relate to bearing assemblies configured to enable removal and replacement of superhard bearing elements, and bearing apparatuses that may utilize such bearing assemblies. The disclosed bearing assemblies may be used in a number of applications, such as downhole motors in subterranean drilling systems, directional drilling systems, roller-cone drill bits, and many other applications. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a support ring and a retention ring assembled with the support ring. The bearing assembly further includes a plurality of superhard bearing elements. The retention ring and at least a number of the superhard bearing element are collectively configured to restrict displacement of the at least a number of the superhard bearing elements. |
| US08616302B2 |
Pulsed electric rock drilling apparatus with non-rotating bit and directional control
The present invention provides for pulsed powered drilling apparatuses and methods. A drilling apparatus is provided comprising a bit having one or more sets of electrodes through which a pulsed voltage is passed through a mineral substrate to create a crushing or drilling action. The electrocrushing drilling process may have, but does not require, rotation of the bit. The electrocrushing drilling process is capable of excavating the hole out beyond the edges of the bit with or without the need of mechanical teeth. |
| US08616301B2 |
Pneumatic hammer mechanism
A pneumatic hammer mechanism is disclosed. The hammer mechanism features: a flying mass, which is movable along an impact axis; an impact surface, which limits a movement of the flying mass along the impact axis in the impact direction; an exciting piston, which limits a movement of the flying mass along the impact axis opposite from the impact direction; a pneumatic chamber between the flying mass and exciting piston; and a drive for periodically moving the exciting piston with a stroke along the impact axis. The flying mass is excited to a periodic movement between the impact surface and a minimum approach of the exciting piston. A length ratio of the maximum length of the pneumatic chamber to the stroke is selected as less than 1.55. |
| US08616296B2 |
Soil aeration device
A mobile soil aeration device including a machine frame, a drive, at least one guide arm that can be moved up and down by the drive and that is pivotably arranged on the machine frame, at least one articulated piercing tool that is coupled to the guide arm, said piercing tool can be lowered into the soil and withdrawn therefrom, a tool holder for the piercing tool, that is mounted about a first pivotable axis in the guide arm that can be displaced up and down by the drive in order to allow the piercing tool to pivot in relation to the guide arm when engaging with the soil. |
| US08616295B2 |
Integrated controls for a fire supression system
A fire suppression system having a foam proportioning system, a water source, and a controller. The foam proportioning system includes a foam tank having at least two types of chemical foamants, a selector valve in fluid communication with the foam tank for selecting one of the at least two types of chemical foamants, a foam pump in fluid communication with the selector valve for supplying the selected chemical foamant to a discharge unit, and a foam controller operatively connected to the foam pump and the selector valve. The water source is connected to the foam proportioning system for mixing water with the selected chemical foamant to form a fire suppression fluid. The controller is operatively connected to the foam proportioning system and includes a one-touch activation control for activating the controller. The controller is also configured to automatically output to the foam controller inputs for configuring the foam pump. |
| US08616292B2 |
Resettable downhole torque limiter and related methods of use
Disclosed is a torque limiter having driver mandrel and driven axially aligned mandrels, a piston movable into and out of an engaged position wherein the driver and driven mandrels are coupled together to transmit torque there between. Hydraulically locking the movable piston in an engaged position. Disengaging the hydraulic lock when during rotation when a specified torque magnitude is exceeded to allow relative rotation between the mandrels. Resetting the torque limiter by hydraulically locking the piston in the engaging position when relative rotation ceases or is reduced. |
| US08616288B1 |
Velocity analyzer for objects traveling in pipes
A plunger lift system of an oil or gas well and method of use is described. The plunger lift system includes a plunger, a sensor, a flow valve assembly, and a controller. The plunger is positioned within the tube string and travels up and down the string in response to the opening and/or closing of the flow valve assembly. The sensor is connected to the tube string and detects vibrations generated by impacts created by the plunger temporarily catching on gaps in the tube string. The sensor generates a sensor signal in response to the impacts of the plunger which are used by the controller to determine the velocity of the plunger within the tube string. If the velocity of the plunger exceeds a preselected maximum velocity, the controller selectively opens or closes the flow valve assembly to reduce the velocity of the plunger. |
| US08616285B2 |
Step ratchet fracture window system
The present invention is to an internal sleeve slidably received within a tubular housing. The sleeve and outer housing have windows that selectively align. Movement of the sleeve within the housing is controlled by a ball passing through the interior of the sleeve to activate a ratchet that allows the sleeve to move a set amount under the influence of a spring. A split seat at a lower end of the housing traps after a set number of balls have passed through the housing. A number of similar tools can be used to provide openings at various points that include coordinated ratchet steps so that only one tool at a time opens for fracturing or other purposes. A reverse flow causes a ball to impinge upon the next higher ball seat and thereby opening the seat to provide a full bore flow passage through the tool. |
| US08616283B2 |
Process for treating water in heavy oil production using coated heat exchange units
A process for treating a water stream produced in the recovery of heavy oil from geological formations. The process includes use of a heat exchange unit having at least one tube having a multi-layer coating. The multi-layer coating includes a melt flowable copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene adhered to the interior surface or exterior surface of the tube. |
| US08616282B2 |
System and method for determining downhole fluid parameters
Systems and methods for determining at least one parameter of a fluid in a well are provided. The system has a downhole system deployable into the well, and sensor elements to measure fluid parameter(s) of the fluid in the well. Each of the sensor elements is provided with a base and sensors. The base is positionable on the coiled tubing system about the injection port. The sensors are positionable in the base. Each of the sensors are thermally isolated from each other, and are capable of operating as both a heater to heat the fluid, and as a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the fluid. The sensors are operatively interchangeable such that the sensors may selectively heat and measure the temperature of the fluid whereby fluid parameters of the fluid are determined. |
| US08616276B2 |
Remotely activated downhole apparatus and methods
An apparatus includes an impervious body, a sealing element, an energy source, and a trigger. The impervious body is configured to prevent passage of fluid therethrough. The sealing element is disposed about the impervious body. The energy source is operationally connected to the sealing element. The trigger is configured to transfer energy from the energy source to the sealing element. The trigger is activated, at least in part, by receiving a signal transmitted through the impervious body. |
| US08616274B2 |
System and method for remote wellbore servicing operations
A method of servicing a wellbore is provided. The method comprises establishing a communication link between a wellsite and a central control site, wherein the communication link carries sensor, audio, and video data to the central control site and carries command parameters to the wellsite to command wellbore servicing equipment on the wellsite. The data transmitted by the wellsite is analyzed at the central control site, stored in a data store at the central control site, and the results of analysis displayed on a display at the central control site. |
| US08616272B2 |
Downhole water-oil separation arrangement and method
Disclosed herein is a downhole water-oil separation arrangement which includes a body having one or more portions thereof configured to have an affinity to a selected fluid. The body further will include one or more portions thereof that are configured to have an affinity to another fluid. |
| US08616269B2 |
Heat exchanger with multi-plate structure and use thereof
A heat exchanger comprises a plurality of plates (7, 9, 11, 13) each having first (15, 19) and second (17, 21) heat transfer surfaces on reverse sides. The plates are arranged in a stack with spacings between mutually facing heat transfer surfaces of adjacent plates. Alternate spacings in the stack providing respectively, a first fluid path (51, 52) for a first fluid and a second fluid path (57, 59) for a second fluid. The plates are arranged in a plurality of groups, each comprising at least two plates. Pin means are provided in the form of a plurality of groups of pins (23). The pins of each pin group are arranged to bridge plates of a respective plate group. |
| US08616268B2 |
Movable constant temperature circulator assembly
A constant temperature circulator assembly may include a circulator head assembly having a fixed display and a base ring assembly adapted for connection to a container wherein the circulator head assembly movably engages the base ring assembly so that an orientation of the fixed display may be selectively adjusted with respect to the base ring assembly. |
| US08616267B2 |
Heat sink
A fluid-cooled heat sink (1) for electronic components having a heat exchanger (2) which can be associated with at least one electronic component (3), the heat exchanger having at least one channel (6) with an inlet (7) and an outlet (8) for a cooling fluid. The heat exchanger (2) having a first outer surface (4) for contact with the electronic component (3) and a second outer surface (5). The heat sink (1) having a stiffening element (15) operating on the heat exchanger (2) at the second outer surface (5) for associating and pressing the heat exchanger (2) on the electronic component (3). |
| US08616263B2 |
Molding machine and molding process
Disclosed is a molding machine for simultaneously making upper and lower molds with cope and drag flasks, a matchplate, upper and lower squeezing boards, and a lower filling frame. This machine also includes a cylinder for raising and lowering the lower squeezing board, a driving mechanism that includes pneumatic and hydraulic piping systems for driving the cylinder using an air-on-oil system, and a controller for controlling the driving mechanism. The drag flask, the matchplate, the filling frame, and the lower board define a lower molding space, while the matchplate, the upper board, and the cope flask define an upper molding space such that the controller controls the driving mechanism to drive the cylinder at a low pressure. The lower squeezing board is raised to squeeze the molding sand for simultaneously making the two molds such that the controller controls the driving mechanism to drive the cylinder at a high pressure. |
| US08616262B2 |
Adjustable fastening plate for tensioning a flexible sheet by cables without changing the shape thereof
The invention relates to an adjustable fastening plate (1) intended for a fake wall made of a flexible sheet (2) provided, along each of the edges thereof, with at least one loop (3) and a cable (4) placed inside said loops (3), said cables (4) being attached, by means of the slant of said plate (1), to the walls and/or the ceiling of an indoor space for keeping said sheet (2) in position. The invention is remarkable in that it includes a base plate (5) attached to the indoor space, a first arm (6) and a second arm (7) hinged to said base plate (5), first and second slides (8, 9) that each receive a cable (4) and which are slidable along said first and second arms (6, 7) so as to enable the tensioning of said cable (4), and an adjusting means (10) for adjusting the angular distance between the first and second arms (6, 7). |
| US08616257B2 |
Device for preliminary bonding of laminated glass
A device for preliminary bonding superposed curved glass plates together through an interlayer between them by sandwiching and pressing the plates from both outside surfaces of the superposed plates. The device has an upper roll pressing means with plural independent upper rolls arranged in a row along a plate upper surface to press against the upper surface of the plate (G), a lower roll pressing means with plural independent lower rolls arranged in a row along a plate lower surface to press against the lower surface of the plate a curveable lower flexible roll contiguous with the top of each lower roll, and a drive (50) for rotating the lower flexible roll. The curved glass plates are press-bonded together by the upper rolls and the lower flexible roll by the lower roll pressing means pressing the lower flexible roll through the lower rolls against the lower surface of the plate. |
| US08616253B2 |
Tyre for vehicle wheels
A tire for vehicle wheels, in particular for heavy load vehicle wheels, has a tread band including an annular central portion astride an equatorial plane and two annular shoulder portions arranged on axially opposite sides with respect to the annular central portion. The annular central portion is separated from a respective annular shoulder portion by a respective circumferential groove. The annular central portion includes a plurality of blocks arranged along at least one circumferential row between two circumferential grooves and at least one transversal sipe arranged between two circumferentially consecutive blocks. The transversal sipe has a main surface oriented in a substantially radial direction and provided with at least one deformation defining, in the adjacent blocks, respective portions of mutual constraint. The deformation has an overall decreasing width from an axial end of the sipe to a central zone thereof and has a radial extension smaller than that of the aforementioned main surface. |
| US08616252B2 |
Fuel dispensing nozzle with attitude sensing device
A nozzle including a dispensing path configured such that fluid is dispensable therethrough and into a vessel, and a sensing path in which a negative pressure is generated when fluid flows through the dispensing path. The nozzle further includes an attitude sensing device configured to sense an attitude of the nozzle. The attitude sensing device is in fluid communication with the sensing path and includes a ball received in a track. The track includes a generally spherical portion configured to receive the ball therein to generally block the sensing path when the nozzle is raised to a sufficient angle. The spherical portion has a radius generally corresponding to a radius of the ball. |
| US08616251B2 |
Breakaway fuel hose cup
A cup for draining residual fuel from a breakaway hose coupling. The cup features a substantially cylindrical rigid stem extending upward from the floor of the cup reservoir, said stem featuring a cavity for receiving the pin of a breakaway hose valve. When the stem is pressed against the valve pin, the valve is opened, relieving pressure within the hose and releasing residual fuel within the hose. The residual fuel drains directly from the hose into the cup, facilitating safe and convenient disposal of the fuel, which may be poured using an integral pour spout in the cup rim. |
| US08616246B2 |
Insulated pipe and method for preparing the same
The invention provides an insulated pipe-in-pipe assembly comprising (a) at least one inner pipe, (b) an outer pipe disposed around the at least one inner pipe so as to create an annular space between the outer and inner pipes, (c) porous, resilient, compressible material disposed in the annular space, and (d) a remnant of a container that previously was positioned in the annular space and previously held the compressible material in a volume less than the volume of the compressible material in the annular space. The invention also provides a method for making such an insulated pipe-in-pipe assembly. |
| US08616234B2 |
Fluid control valve system and methods
A diaphragm-type control valve having a diaphragm and a valve body is provided preferably for use in the separation of and fluid control between a fluid source and a pressurized gas volume. The diaphragm element and a port in the body together form an intermediate chamber that eliminates the need for a check-valve downstream of the valve. In one preferred embodiment, an inner surface of the valve body defines a chamber having an inlet and an outlet in communication with the chamber, and an elongated seat member defining a groove in communication with the port. A diaphragm member having upper and lower surfaces is disposed within the chamber. The lower surface preferably includes a pair of spaced apart elongated members defining a channel therebetween. The diaphragm member engages the seat member placing the channel in communication with the groove to define an air seat in communication with the port. |
| US08616232B2 |
Fuel cut-off valve
A fuel cut-off valve includes a case having a first opening communicated with the inside of a fuel tank and a second opening communicated with a canister; a lower float that is provided so as to move up and down inside the case and has a first valve member above the lower float; an upper float that is provided so as to move up and down above an upper portion of the lower float and has a second valve member and a third opening communicated with the canister; a first valve seat provided on the upper float, against which the first valve member abuts to close off the third opening; a second valve seat against which the second valve member abuts to close off the second opening; and a guide member that guides the upper float when the upper float moves up and down. |
| US08616231B2 |
Valve device for a compressed air supply device and compressed air supply system
A valve device for a compressed air supply system, includes a control chamber to which compressed air may be supplied, a control piston plate delimiting the control chamber, a control piston that is fixed to the side of the control piston plate facing away from the control chamber. The piston protrudes into a discharge valve chamber of a discharge valve, provided with at least one compressed air connection. A valve head delimits the discharge valve chamber, which can be pressurized with the force of a spring in the direction of a valve seat and which can be lifted from the valve seat by the control piston counter to the force of the spring in order to open the discharge valve. The control piston and a valve housing surrounding the control piston define at least two regeneration valve chambers of a regeneration valve having at least one compressed air connection. The at least two regeneration valve chambers are either separated from each other or connected together in accordance with the position of the control piston. |
| US08616229B2 |
Water stop valve device with rough-in sleeve and method of assembling the same
A new and improved water stop valve assembly includes a water stop valve device having an inlet, an outlet, and a valve handle for actuating the water stop valve device between open and closed positions for controlling fluid flow between the inlet and outlet. A rough-in sleeve member having a front face with an off-set opening for slidably receiving and securing it about a portion of the water stop valve device inlet defining a single valve unit to be installed during a rough-in stage of new and remodeling building construction. The water stop valve device having a remaining portion disposed exteriorly of the front face and always within an outer circumference of the rough-in sleeve member to allow a vanity or cabinet and drywall structure to slide over the entire valve unit and always supported and retained about the rough-in sleeve member by a trim ring. |
| US08616227B1 |
Multilevel microfluidic systems and methods
Multilevel microfluidic devices include a control line that can simultaneously actuate valves for both sample and reagent lines. Microfluidic devices are configured to contain a first reagent in a first chamber and a second reagent in a second chamber, where either or both of the first and second reagents are contained at a desired or selected pressure. Operation of a microfluidic device includes transmitting second reagent from the second chamber to the first chamber, for mixing or contact with the first reagent. Microfluidic device features such as channels, valves, chambers, can be at least partially contained, embedded, or formed by or within one or more layers or levels of an elastomeric block. |
| US08616226B2 |
Shelter with extended eaves
A shelter that includes a slider and a strut mechanism mounted on support posts of the shelter that automatically actuate and extend from the side of the support posts when the shelter is expanded from its collapsed state. The strut mechanism provides support for an eave that extends outside from all or a portion of the perimeter of the shelter defined by the corners of the support posts. An automatic hard-stop mechanism is incorporated into the support posts that prevent the eave sliders and strut mechanisms from becoming over-extended. The support posts are configured and oriented relative to the other components of the shelter frame and shelter boundary so to minimize the footprint or size of the shelter when in the collapsed state. Accordingly, the protected and shaded area offered by the shelter is greatly increased without sacrificing the stability and strength of the shelter, complicating the operation of the shelter, or increasing the weight, storability or cost of the shelter. |
| US08616224B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing a gas mixture to a pair of process chambers
A method and apparatus for supplying a gas mixture to a load lock chamber is described. In one embodiment, the apparatus supplies a gas mixture to a pair of process chambers, comprising a first ozone generator to provide a first gas mixture to a first process chamber, a second ozone generator to provide a second gas mixture to a second process chamber, a first gas source coupled to the first ozone generator via a first mass flow controller and a first gas line, and coupled to the second ozone generator via a second mass flow controller and a second gas line, and a second gas source coupled to the first ozone generator via a third mass flow controller and a third gas line and coupled to the second ozone generator via fourth mass flow controller and a fourth gas line. |
| US08616223B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for applying eyelash extensions
An applicator for use with an eyelash extension system that has a backbone and a backbone surface configured to be joined with a closure surface. A plurality of eyelash extensions are attached to the backbone. The applicator includes a frame having a first end and a second end spaced laterally from the first end, a rail attached to the frame and extending laterally between the first and second ends, and a cam. The cam has a cam surface configured to contact the backbone of the eyelash extension system to urge the backbone to come into contact with the closure as the cam is moved laterally along the rail. |
| US08616221B2 |
Oral pouch product with flavored wrapper
Provided is an oral pouch flavor product with a fibrous flavored wrapper that encloses an inner filling material. Preferably, the fibrous flavored wrapper includes embedded flavorants. The fibrous flavored wrapper may also include a softening agent, colorants, and/or browning inhibitors. The inner material may include non-tobacco, plant material fibers and preferably has a low moisture content so as to prevent the need for preservatives or refrigeration. |
| US08616220B2 |
Intermediate wrapper and method of making
A tobacco product is formed by perforated cigar or shell, the shell comprising a sheet of material with an intermediate sheet, the sheet comprising tobacco leaves and/or homogenized tobacco paper. The cigar or shell is packaged for shipment to an end user or consumer. The cigar or shell remains in the rolled, shaped tube form inside the package. After the cigar or shell is removed from the package, a consumer can fill the cigar or shell with crushed tobacco leaves or other tobacco filler material of a favorite blend, thereby eliminating some steps in the making of a “roll-your-own” tobacco product. A liquid can be added to the cigar or shell to moisturize same. The liquid can include flavoring. |
| US08616215B2 |
System and method for preventing wrong-site surgeries
A container holds at least one surgical implement, has a lock mechanism, and has a signature label that impedes access to the surgical implement until the correct surgical site is confirmed. A method of using the container includes the steps of confirming the correct surgical site, signing the label and removing it from the container, placing the label in the medical record, unlocking the container, removing the implement, and beginning the surgery, wherein the surgical team is forced to pause to confirm the correct surgical site before starting the surgery. Preferably, the container top may be removed and placed between the surgeon and surgical technician to define a no-hands “neutral zone” to avoid being stuck by the sharps. Also, the container preferably includes compartments for storing used sharps and/or a local anesthetic-loaded syringe, and the top may be replaced and secured for safely disposing of the sharps after the surgery. |
| US08616214B2 |
Earplug having a resilient core structure
An earplug for insertion into an ear canal of a user has a front, a back, a side extending between the front and the back, a longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis. A core structure is selectively moveable from an un-deformed position to a deformed, insertable position suitable for insertion of the earplug into the ear canal of the user. A cover covers at least a portion of the core structure and is adapted for contact with the ear canal of the user. An actuator is operatively connected to the core structure for moving the core structure from the un-deformed position to the deformed, insertable position upon application of a force to the actuator. |
| US08616213B2 |
Earplug insertion device
An earplug insertion device can include a housing that is configured to hold a first earplug and a second earplug. The device can also include an ejection mechanism that can be configured to respond to a first user force by ejecting the first earplug from the device in a first ejection motion. The ejection mechanism can also being configured to respond to a second user force by ejecting the second earplug from the device in a second ejection motion. |
| US08616209B2 |
Supplemental gas delivery device for mask assembly
A supplemental gas delivery device is described for a mask assembly having at least one supplemental gas port, the at least one supplemental gas port including an aperture in communication with an interior of the mask assembly. The mask assembly may include an aperture communicating with an interior of the mask assembly, and a cannula for communicating with the supplemental gas port. The cannula is positioned to deliver supplemental gas adjacent to the patient's nares and/or mouth, to increase an efficacy of treatment for the patient by more directly applying the flow of supplemental gas to the patient's nares. An optional bridging portion may be included to provide a connection between supplemental gas port and the cannula. |
| US08616208B2 |
Oral appliance with auto negative pressure control and method thereof
A method for automatically controlling negative pressure supplied in oral cavity, for relieving sleep apnea and snoring is provided. The method includes: sensing a physiological signal from the user and outputting the sensed physiological signal; extracting a physiological status based on said sensed physiological signal; and automatically controlling said negative pressure provided to the user's oral cavity based on said physiological status. |
| US08616206B2 |
Method and apparatus for treating apnea/hypopnea
Methods and/or apparatuses for treating sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are provided. In particular, systems and/or methods are provided which may temporarily boost the pressure of a supply of breathable gas provided by an AutoSet device for the treatment of hypopnea. In certain example embodiments, a supply of breathable is provided to patients to treat apneas and/or hypopneas. The presence and/or absence of apneas and/or hypopneas are detected (e.g. by monitoring the Apnea-Hypopnea Index). When hypopnea events are detected, the pressure of the supply of breathable gas temporarily is increased above the Pcrit and/or CPAP levels, at least during patient inspiration. When the hypopnea events are normalized, the pressure is reduced. In certain example embodiments, the pressure will not be increased when a non-hypopnea event is detected at the same time as a hypopnea event. |
| US08616205B2 |
Respirator with end-of-service-life detection
The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for detecting when respiratory cartridges of a respirator have reached their end-of-service-life. In some instances, two or more respiratory cartridges are removably connectable to a respirator housing, where each of the two or more respiratory cartridges receives ambient air and deliver cleaned air to the respirator housing. One of the respiratory cartridges may be configured to have a lower adsorption capacity than the remaining respirator cartridges. A gas sensor may be situated downstream of the reduced capacity respirator cartridge, and may detect an increased concentration of the targeted gas in the cleaned air delivered by the reduced capacity respiratory cartridge. When detected, an end-of-service-life indication may be provided to the user. |
| US08616202B2 |
Control of humidifier chamber temperature for accurate humidity control
A breathing assistance system is provided for delivering a flow of gases to a user. The system includes a humidifier unit which holds and heats a volume of water, and which in use receives a flow of gases from a gases source via an inlet port. The flow of gases passes through the humidifier and exits via an exit port. The system further having a temperature sensor which measures the temperature of the gases exiting the humidifier unit, an ambient temperature sensor which measures the temperature of gases before they enter the humidifier unit, and a flow sensor which measures the flow rate of the gases stream. The system also has a controller which receives data from the temperature and flow sensors, and which determines a control output in response. The control output is configured to adjust the power to the humidifier unit to achieve a desired output at the humidifier unit exit port. |
| US08616201B2 |
Medicinal inhalation devices and components thereof
A medicinal inhalation device having applied to a surface thereof a composition comprising a multifunctional polyfluoropolyether silane. |
| US08616200B2 |
Reservoir system for gas delivery to a patient
An oxygen delivery system is provided that employs a reservoir for holding oxygen or an oxygen and medicine mixture while the patient is not inhaling. The reservoir generally prevents waste and reduces cost and helps prevent the patient from re-inhaling the previously exhaled gases. |
| US08616194B2 |
Gas-fired furnace and intake manifold for low NOx applications
A gas-fired air conditioning furnace comprises a monolithic intake manifold including an inlet at a first end and a plurality of outlets at a second end opposite the first end. In addition, the furnace comprises a burner assembly including a plurality of burners, each burner is configured to combust an air-fuel mixture at least partially within an interior space of the burner. Further, each burner extends into one of the outlets of the intake manifold. |
| US08616192B2 |
Round brilliant cut gemstone and method for cutting the same
The invention relates to a gemstone (10) comprises a girdle (13), a crown (11) and a pavilion (12). The crown (11) comprises a table (14), eight star facets (15) surrounding the table (14), eight first half facets (16) aligned between the star facets (15), eight second half facets (17) aligned adjacent to the first half facets (16) and sixteen upper girdle facets (20) aligned between the second half facets (17). The pavilion (12) comprises sixteen pavilion main facets (23) and sixteen lower girdle facets (25) aligned between the pavilion main facets (23). The invention also relates to a method of cutting the gemstone. |
| US08616191B2 |
Wire saw and method for producing a wire saw
A wire saw (S) for separating a plurality of ceramic components (11-16) from a ceramic component block (1) has a roller system (2), the roller system has a plurality of deflecting rollers (3-5) guiding a wire (6) to form a wire harp (7), wherein at least one of the deflecting rollers (3) is divided into separate discs (31-36) guiding a single wire winding (61-66) of the wire (6) and being inclined at an adjustable angle (a) of less than 90 DEG to an axle (A) connecting the centers (M1-M6) of the discs (31-36). |
| US08616190B2 |
Cutter
A cutter for cutting a workpiece while using a water includes a housing, an electric motor disposed in the housing, a rotation shaft, a base, and a splashboard. The rotation shaft is supported by the housing for rotatably supporting an end tool driven by the electric motor. The base supports the housing, and has a top surface and a bottom surface to be in contact with the workpiece. The end tool has a part protrudable from the bottom surface. The splashboard section is positioned on the top surface and behind the end tool in a cutting direction. The splashboard section protrudes in a direction away from the top surface and extends in a direction substantially parallel to an axial direction of the rotation shaft. |
| US08616186B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
Various systems and methods are described for an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system coupled to an engine in a vehicle. One example method comprises, calculating an EGR mass flow from a difference between measurements of clean air mass flow and total mass flow, and correcting for a transient mass flow error. |
| US08616185B2 |
Supercharged engine
A supercharged internal combustion engine is disclosed which includes a supercharger operatively connected to the crankshaft via a clutch supported by an intermediate shaft such that torque variations are partially absorbed by the clutch. |
| US08616182B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling an internal combustion engine coupled to a passive selective catalytic reduction aftertreatment system
A direct-injection internal combustion engine is fluidly coupled to a passive SCR system including a three-way catalytic converter upstream to an ammonia-selective catalytic reduction catalyst. Transition from an HCCI combustion mode to an SI combustion mode includes determining a preferred air/fuel ratio to achieve a minimum fuel consumption and maintain combustion stability at an acceptable level for a predetermined engine operating point during the SI combustion mode. A fuel injection timing, an engine spark timing and an engine valve lift are substantially immediately controlled from respective HCCI combustion mode settings to respective SI combustion mode settings. A transition to the preferred air/fuel ratio is coordinated with a transition of an engine valve phase from a respective HCCI combustion mode setting to a respective SI combustion mode phase setting. |
| US08616180B2 |
Automatic idle systems and methods
The present subject matter relates to arrangements and uses for engine speed governors. In particular, an automatic idle system for a small engine can include an engine speed governor for connection to a small engine with a governor shaft rotatable in response to a speed of the engine. A governor linkage can include a first portion for connection to the governor shaft and a second portion for connection to a throttle control of the engine, the first portion being movably connected with or to the second portion. An actuator can be connected to the second portion of the governor linkage, the actuator being movable in response to a load on the engine to move the second portion relative to the first portion. In this configuration, when the engine is in a low-load state, the second portion can be moved relative to the first portion toward a throttle-closed position. |
| US08616176B2 |
Rotary internal combustion engine
A rotary engine includes a compressor assembly and two power assemblies that receive compressed air from the compressor assembly. Each assembly includes at least two intermeshing rotors. The rotors of the compressor assembly compress air, either alone or in an air/fuel mixture, in a compression chamber located in that assembly. The compressed air is transferred to the expansion chambers of the power assemblies, where fuel is ignited to initiate a power stroke. A line bisecting the axes of the rotors of the compressor assembly is inclined at an acute angle relative to a line bisecting the axes of the rotors of the power assemblies. The power assemblies operate 180° out of phase with respect to one another to minimize power fluctuations in the engine. |
| US08616173B2 |
Engine assembly including modified intake port arrangement
An engine assembly may include an engine block, a first piston, a second piston, and a cylinder head. The cylinder head and the engine block may define a first combustion chamber and a second combustion chamber. The cylinder head may define a first intake port and a second intake port. The first intake port may be in communication with the first combustion chamber and may include a first inlet extending through an upper surface of the cylinder head. The second intake port may be in communication with the second combustion chamber and may include a second inlet extending through a side of the cylinder head. |
| US08616172B2 |
Engine balance masses and drives
The present application relates to a drive and balance mass. In one example, an engine includes, a camshaft, a balance shaft disposed within an interior of the camshaft, and a first gear, intermediate the balance shaft and the camshaft and driving the balance shaft to rotate about a first axis substantially parallel to a crankshaft of the engine in a direction opposite of the crankshaft. In another example, a balance mass and drive for an engine includes, a planetary gear set including a sun gear, a ring gear and a plurality of pinions mounted on a carrier, an input coupled to an input gear of the planetary gear set, a balance mass coupled to an output gear of the planetary gear set, the output gear configured to drive the balance mass to rotate about a first axis substantially parallel to the crankshaft in a direction opposite of the crankshaft. |
| US08616170B2 |
Recoil starter
One of the embodiments provides a starter including: a starter case; a rotational torque applying unit; a torque-accumulation spring; a rotating member; a driving pulley; and a rotation regulating mechanism including: a regulating ratchet provided on the driving pulley or the rotating member at a position shifted from a rotation center thereof; and a pressing unit provided on the starter case and urged by a given resilient pressing force to be engaged with the regulating ratchet, wherein, when the rotational torque accumulated in the torque-accumulation spring exceeds the given resilient pressing force, the driving pulley or the rotating member urges back the pressing unit via the regulating ratchet so that the regulating ratchet is disengaged from the pressing unit, to thereby release the rotational torque. |
| US08616168B2 |
Alignment device for use with a tappet
A tappet (10) is movable along an axis. The tappet (10) includes a skirt defining an opening (18) and an alignment device (22) positioned at least partially within the opening (18). The alignment device (22) has a generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape when taken through a plane substantially parallel to the axis and has a non-T-shaped cross-sectional shape when taken through a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis. |
| US08616165B2 |
Arrangement for coupling two components of an internal combustion engine arranged movable relative to each other
An arrangement for coupling two components of an internal combustion engine that are arranged movable relative to each other is provided, in particular, for switching multi-stage valve drives, with at least one coupling element (1) arranged to be movable in one of the components for coupling with the other component to be coupled. Here, at the contact point between the coupling element (1) and the component to be coupled, a force acting on the coupling element (1) during coupling is introduced at an angle relative to the coupling direction (2) of the coupling element (1). |
| US08616161B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine and method for its production
A method for the production of a piston for an internal combustion engine, having a circumferential cooling channel, whereby a blank of a lower piston part is forged, and a blank of an upper piston part is produced, the blanks are pre-machined and joined together to form a piston blank, which is finished to produce a piston. At least one depression or recess is formed into the blank of the lower piston part during the forging process. In the finished piston, the depression forms an opening for a coolant inflow and/or a coolant outflow, or the recess forms an excavation groove for a pin securing ring, respectively. |
| US08616160B2 |
Cooling apparatus for water-cooled engine and method of controlling cooling apparatus for water-cooled engine
A cooling apparatus for a water-cooled engine includes a radiator that cools coolant that has been circulated in the engine; a radiator fan that delivers air to the radiator; a determination portion that determines whether the engine is operated under a high load; and a setting portion. If the determination portion determines that the engine is operated under a high load, the setting portion sets an operation rate of the radiator fan at a time point at which the determination portion determines that the engine is operated under a high load, to a value higher than a normal operation rate at the same coolant temperature as a coolant temperature at the time point. |
| US08616158B2 |
Non-dilution blower apparatus for high efficiency water heater
A blower housing of novel two-piece construction is comprised of first and second housing parts of stamped or drawn sheet metal that are attached together. The two-piece construction provides the housing with two interior portions separated by an interior wall. The interior wall has an opening that is spaced from the aligned exhaust opening of the heater and the output opening of the housing. This creates a winding exhaust gas flow path through the blower housing. The interior wall is also provided with a recessed cavity that receives a portion of a fan rotated by a motor supported by the blower housing. Positioning of at least a portion of the fan in the cavity reduces the overall height dimension of the blower housing and facilitates the retrofitting of the blower housing between an existing exhaust opening of a heater and an axially aligned flue pipe. |
| US08616147B2 |
Pointer illumination
A disclosed instrument cluster includes dial gauges with an illuminated pointer including light reflecting features for uniformly distributing light within the pointer. The light deflecting structure directs light toward tip of the pointer by reflecting the light of each of the first and second sides. The light deflecting structure provides the desired distribution of luminescence by directing light toward the sides surfaces of the pointer. |
| US08616146B2 |
System for indicating an airplane hard landing
An indicator assembly for an aircraft landing gear for providing indication of a hard landing. The indicator assembly including a actuator member movable when the pressure on a shock strut of the aircraft landing gear exceeds a desired load and stroke threshold indicative of a hard landing. A shear pin is coupled to the actuator member which is configured to shear when a desired level of force is applied to at least a portion of the shear pin. A visibly recognizable indictor is moved from a non-indicating position to an indicating position upon shearing of the shear pin. |
| US08616145B1 |
Snap on flag pole
A flagpole having a shaft assembly comprising first and second ends. The first end defines a head. Positioned between the head and the second end is a channel. A snap cap has an exterior sidewall with a top face and an exterior bottom edge. An interior sidewall extends from the top face to an interior bottom wall. The interior bottom wall comprises an edge that protrudes inwardly from the interior sidewall. At least two notches are defined at the top face. The at least two notches extend along the interior sidewall to the interior bottom wall. A clamp assembly has a shaft member with third and fourth ends. The third end extends from the second end. Extending from the fourth end is a connector section that terminates as a clamp. In use, the flagpole is mounted onto a tubular section of vessel to display a flag mounted thereon. |
| US08616142B2 |
Kayak
In one example, a watercraft is provided that includes a body. The body has a hull and a ramp that slopes downwardly toward a back of the hull. Additionally, a reverse chine geometry is incorporated in a portion of the bottom of the hull. Finally, one or more projections extend downward from the bottom of the hull. |
| US08616138B1 |
Shelving system
A shelving system includes stand units, mounting connectors and supporting panels. The stand unit includes vertical portions and a horizontal portion. The vertical portion includes securement holes spaced apart from each other. Each mounting connector includes a main body having a through hole including an elastic securement hook, and the main body each includes a protruding block having parallel positioning holes. Two sides of each supporting panel include locking pins. Each mounting connector is mounted onto the vertical portions of the stand units by securing the securement hook into one of the securement holes of the vertical portions to allow the insertion of the locking pins of the supporting panels into the positioning holes to form directionally extended combinations of supporting panels such that the shelving system is configurable to be of different sizes and levels for storage and can be assembled and disassembled with ease. |
| US08616137B2 |
Extendable tray for an aircraft seat
A tray table system to be mounted onto a seat, particularly in an aircraft, and to an associated aircraft, and a system that includes a retractable tray table having utility-surface dimensions that vary between a storage retracted position and an extended use position. The tray table system includes a tray table including an upper utility surface, and a translation mechanism capable of modifying by translation dimensions of the upper utility surface during movement of the tray table between at least a first general storage position and a second general use position. |
| US08616136B2 |
Keyboard tray tilt
A work station comprises a work platform that may be mounted on a movable carriage. The work platform may support a keyboard tray on a drawer where the drawer may be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. The tray is mounted for pivoting motion in a first direction and a second direction between a lowered position and a raised position. A gear is operatively connected to the tray such that rotation of the tray causes rotation of the gear. A pawl is biased into engagement with the gear to prevent movement of the tray in the second direction to lock the tray in an angular position when the tray is moved in the first direction. A latch disengages the pawl from the gear when the tray reaches the fully raised position to allow the tray to move in the second direction to the lowered position. |
| US08616129B1 |
Cartridge actuator and method of manufacture thereof
A cartridge useful as an activator of other systems, and related method of manufacture. The cartridge's casing includes a fuse delimited by placing a plate at each end staked to the casing for fixing the fuse. This configuration permits precise control of the length of the fuse during manufacture, eliminates the need for separate structures in the casing to aid fuse location, and simplifies manufacture and assembly. This configuration supports the fuse lessening stresses that can lead to fractures. A portion of the casing is thinned by a preselected amount to permit fracturing of the casing to launch the projectile. The projectile may be attached to the cartridge casing more simply, e.g. by screw threading. |
| US08616126B2 |
Apparatus for applying indicia having a large color gamut on web substrates
A contact printing system is disclosed. The contact printing system is provided with a central roll having a plurality of discrete cells disposed upon an outer surface thereof. Each of the plurality of discrete cells is in fluidic communication with a respective fluid delivery channel. Each of the fluid delivery channels are formed in situ with the formation of the central roll and the plurality of cells. |
| US08616124B2 |
Pressure relief valve for a round baler
A pressure-relief valve is provided. The pressure-relief valve having a valve body with a passage that can be closed by a moving closure element. An electromagnet is mounted detachably on the valve body and interacts with an armature in driving connection with the closure element. A spring interacts with the closure element the bias tension of which can be changed by an adjustment element that can be moved manually relative to the valve body. The adjustment element and the valve body are constructed such that a manual change of the bias tension of the spring by means of the adjustment element is then possible only when the electromagnet is detached from the valve body. Also provided is a round baler employing such a pressure-relief valve. |
| US08616123B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for addressing a multitude of kitchen, food preparation, and culinary needs
An apparatus is provided and, in one example embodiment, includes a plurality of holes occupying a center region of the apparatus. The apparatus also includes a perimeter that surrounds the holes such that an end user can grasp the perimeter when utilizing the apparatus. An object may be placed in contact with the holes and the perimeter folded inward toward the center region such that twisting of the apparatus extracts liquid from the object. In more specific embodiments, the holes are substantially equidistant from each other or staggered. The apparatus can be square in shape. In still other embodiments, the apparatus includes a recessed cavity, where the object is placed in the cavity before the twisting operation occurs. |
| US08616118B1 |
Brewer with brew basket having electromagnetic drain hole closure
A beverage brewer (10) having a housing (16, 30) with source of dispense water (37, 39) for mixing with beverage ingredient to produce a freshly brewed beverage has an electromagnet (76) mounted to the housing (30) and a brew basket assembly (32, 34) with a drain plug assembly (49) that is responsive to energization of the electromagnet (76) to actuate a drain plug assembly to move a drain plug (48) out of blocking engagement with a drain hole (61). The drain plug (48) is attached to a lower end of a plug support member (50) that has an upper magnetic responsive end (51) that is received within a hollow core of (54) of the magnet (76) when the brew basket assembly (32, 34) is toolessly mounted to by raising it into operative position where it is held by mating magnetic connectors (72, 74). During use, the elongate plug support member (50) is used as a handle to remove a filter assembly (60) for cleaning. |
| US08616117B2 |
Substance dispensing system
A substance dispensing system comprising in combination:—a disposable container (1) filled with a portion of a substance, the container having a preformed and deformable body with a bottom (2), a peripheral wall (3) adjoining said bottom and having a top end remote from said bottom, an integral circumferential rim (4) extending outwards from the top end of the peripheral wall and defining a filling opening of said container, said disposable container being closed by a cover sheet (5) which is sealed to the circumferential rim by means of a circumferential seal (6), and—a dispensing apparatus (30) comprising a compression device having a cover sheet side support member (15) for the cover sheet side of the container as well as a bottom engaging member (20) for engaging on the bottom of the container, said compression device being adapted to compress the container by reduction of the distance between the cover sheet side support member and the bottom engaging member. |
| US08616115B2 |
Brewing apparatus
A brewing apparatus, in particular for brewed beverage vending machines, the brewing apparatus having a fixed axis; a fixed frame; a reversible drive; and a number of movable driven members all connected directly or indirectly to the drive to only oscillate about the fixed axis and/or move radially with respect to the fixed axis. |
| US08616114B2 |
Piston with central directional oil flow and wrist pin lubrication feature and method of construction thereof
A piston has a piston body extending along a central axis. The piston body has an upper crown portion and a lower crown portion. The upper crown portion has an upper combustion wall and an at least one annular upper rib depending from the upper combustion wall to a free end. The lower crown portion has at least one annular lower rib extending to a free end that is fixed to the at least one upper rib and an inner gallery floor extending radially inwardly relative to the at least one lower rib. The upper crown portion has an upper post depending from the upper combustion wall along the central axis to a free end. The lower crown portion has a lower post extending upwardly from the inner gallery floor along the central axis to a free end. Together, the upper post and the lower post form a labyrinth passage. |
| US08616112B2 |
Breech drive for a weapon
A drive for a weapon is provided, wherein rotational motion of a motor is converted to a forward or reverse motion of the breech in a simple manner using the Scotch yoke principle. In order to allow rest periods of the breech in the end positions, the crank radius is defined by a control cam, which changes when the crank is rotated. The hinge pin of the crank may be externally driven via a pinion shaft. A yoke pin is arranged in a groove of the crank so as to be radially displaceable and carries the breech carrier or the breech in a groove extending transversely to the direction of fire via a sliding block. Two rollers are arranged on the crank pin and run in control cams in the weapon or crank housing. The control cam is subdivided into different sectors/sections, thereby achieving the desired motion of the breech. |
| US08616111B2 |
Balloon with dividing fabric layers and method for braiding over three-dimensional forms
A medical balloon with a variable diameter that is reinforced with continuous fibers woven to form a fabric with a varying number of layers and fiber densities. Portions of the balloon having a relatively smaller diameter are reinforced with a fabric having a reduced fiber density and an increased number of layers to facilitate the placement of the layers. The fabric also includes a braiding pattern that facilitates the transition from a single layer fabric to a multiple layer fabric. Also described is a manufacturing method for the braiding and layering. |
| US08616108B2 |
Guide rail for a portable power tool
A guide rail for a portable power tool includes a releasable connecting device and at least two individual rails which are to be joined together to form a common rail and which can be locked together via the releasable connecting device. The releasable connecting device includes at least one connecting latch on a first individual rail of the at least two individual rails. The connecting latch is adjustable between a locking position and a release position. The connecting latch, for shifting from the locking position into the release position, performs a movement relative to the first individual rail on which the connecting latch is held. The connecting latch is engaged in the locking position with a locking counterpart arranged on a second individual rail of the at least two individual rails. |
| US08616107B2 |
Punching tool
A punching tool has a safety device prevents a punching die from being undesirably released from a guide housing when the punching tool is gripped at the head. The safety device has a base guide body securely mounted relative to the punching die at least with respect to a gripping force direction acting on the punching die and a counter guide body securely mounted relative to the housing at least with respect to the gripping force direction. The guide bodies are designed to ensure a secure interaction in at least one retaining relative circumferential position while allowing release of the punching die from the guide housing in the gripping force direction in a release relative circumferential position displaced relative to the retaining relative circumferential position in the circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis. As a result, an unwanted release of the punching die from the guide housing is securely prevented. |
| US08616103B2 |
Knife blade retraction mechanism for a food article slicing machine
A food article slicing machine includes a slicing station, a food article feed apparatus, and an automated blade retraction mechanism. The food article feed apparatus supports one or more food articles for movement along food article paths intersecting the cutting path. The automated blade retraction mechanism periodically retracts the blade from the cutting plane to make empty cuts during a continuous cutting operation. The retracting mechanism includes a sliding member arranged outside the blade shaft, the sliding member guided for sliding movement and non-rotation and arranged to exert a sliding force on the blade shaft. A linear actuator causes the sliding member to slide and exert a sliding force on the blade shaft to retract the knife blade away from the cutting plane in a direction along the axis of the blade shaft. |
| US08616101B2 |
Process and device for manufacturing a product from strip tape, especially for manufacturing a medicinal and/or active substance-containing product as well as fillable containers or sealed-margin bags
A device for manufacturing a product from strip tape includes a roll that draws off and separates a web of material. The web of material is severed into individual strips in cooperation with a multiple circular knife roll. A vacuum conveyor channel is associated with each strip. The vacuum conveyor channel is designed such that each strip is turned on its way to the channel or through the channel by about 90°. The end of the vacuum conveyor channel brings the strips together at one site to form a unit and at that site there are provided a guide and a transport device for the further transport to conversion equipment. |
| US08616095B2 |
Ratchet hand tool without use of switching member
A hand tool includes a head in which a driving member is received and a pawl is engaged with the driving member. A handle has a substantially round driving end which is rotatably received in a pivoting recess in the head and a pushing member protrudes from the driving end and is engaged with the pawl. The handle includes two contact sides which alternatively contact two outward tapered sidewalls of a driving recess in the driving end when operating the handle. The pawl is shifted to contact the driving member by the teeth at different positions of the pawl when operating the handle to change the driving direction of the driving member. No switching member is connected to the pawl and protrudes from the top surface of the head of the hand tool. |
| US08616087B2 |
Power transmission device
A power transmission device is comprised of a first shaft having a first gear and a second gear and capable of being drivingly coupled with the engine; a second shaft drivingly coupled with the electric motor and the first shaft; a third gear meshing with the first gear to form a first gearing having a first gear ratio; a fourth gear coaxial with the third gear, the fourth gear meshing with the second gear to form a second gearing having a second gear ratio; a third shaft coaxial with both the third gear and the fourth gear, the third shaft being drivingly coupled with the axles; a first clutch configured to selectively connect and disconnect the third gear with the third shaft; and a second clutch configured to selectively connect and disconnect the fourth gear with the third shaft. |
| US08616086B2 |
Harmonic speed reducer for robots
A harmonic speed reducer for robots is provided with a frame, an annular circular spline, a cylindrical flexspline, and an elliptical wave generator. The frame has internal threads each tapped parallel to the center axis line, the threads each extending from a circular spline mounting seat to the inside of the frame. The internal thread in the circular spline mounting seat has a peripheral edge portion at an opening thereof with a recess. The recess is formed so as to have a diameter larger than a diameter of the internal thread. |
| US08616085B2 |
Bicycle crank assembly
A bicycle crank assembly is provided that basically provided with a crank arm that includes a first outer shell, a second outer shell, a first axle supporting member and a second axle supporting member. The first and second outer shells are adhesively attached together to form an interior cavity. The first axle supporting member is disposed at the first axle attachment end of the first outer shell. The first axle supporting member has a first bore with a first splined inner surface at least partially disposed in the interior cavity. The second axle supporting member is disposed at the second axle attachment end of the second outer shell. The second axle supporting member has a second bore with a second splined inner surface aligned with the first splined inner surface of the first bore and at least partially disposed in the interior cavity. |
| US08616078B2 |
Multistage transmission
A gear with an annular member disposed alongside a side wall of an inward protrusion in a manner turnable relative to the side wall. The annular member is formed with abutment projections with inclined surfaces extending in circumferential directions and engaged by engaging pawls. The annular member is urged by return springs in such a manner that the portion of each abutment projection, at least other than the inclined surfaces, overlaps each engaging projection as viewed in axial direction. Each inclined surface of the abutment projection is made up of a bottom-side inclined surface having an inclination angle allowing abutment by the engaging pawls, and a top-side inclined surface having an inclination angle not allowing abutment by the engaging pawls but causing sliding movement of the engaging pawls. The engaging pawls are prevented be imposed with excessive local load when the engaging pawls engage the engaging projections of the gear. |
| US08616074B2 |
In-line piggable wye fitting, apparatus and method
A fitting for inserting a pig into a pipeline. The fitting comprises a cast body having a first end for connecting to a first end of a pipeline and a second end for connecting to a second end of the pipeline. The cast body further comprises a third end arranged at a predetermined angle to the first and second end of the cast body. A retractable guide within the cast body can be at least partially inserted into a run portion of the cast body for delivery or retrieval of the pig. |
| US08616072B2 |
System and methods for sampling materials
Provided herein are systems and methods for storage, retrieval and sampling of materials. |
| US08616068B2 |
Array for sensing and inducing strain in an adhesively bonded joint including magnetostrictive material
Sensing strain in an adhesively bonded joint includes inducing a strain wave in the joint, and sensing a change in local magnetic characteristics in the joint. An array includes a plurality of elements for sensing and inducing a strain wave in selected regions of a structure having the adhesively bonded joint. The elements include at least one micromechanical driver for inducing strain waves in selected regions, a plurality of mechanical sensors for measuring vibrations resulting from the induced strain waves, a plurality of micromagnetic drivers for generating weak magnetic fields over the selected regions, and a plurality of micromagnetic sensors for sensing magnetic responses of the selected regions to the strain waves. |
| US08616067B2 |
Pressure sensor assembly
A pressure sensor assembly is disclosed wherein the substrate to which the pressure sensing die is mounted is decoupled from the package. |
| US08616066B2 |
Electronic readout for piston-type differential pressure gauge
A piston-type differential pressure gauge provides an electronic output for remote monitoring. A linear potentiometer, in communication with a magnetic portion of the piston of the gauge, tracks the location of the piston. Resistance change in the potentiometer can be used by an electronic circuit to provide the electronic output of the differential pressure remotely to a data acquisition system or control electronics. |
| US08616064B2 |
Combination static and dynamic pressure transducer employing a micro-filter
A pressure transducer assembly that uses static pressure compensation to capture low-level dynamic pressures in high temperature environments. The pressure transducer assembly combines a static-dynamic pressure transducer with a micro-filter element to achieve a compact system that can be used in extreme temperature applications where low-level, dynamic pressure measurements are required in a high pressure environment. |
| US08616063B2 |
Method and apparatus for thermal control of a multiple chamber test system
A multiple chamber test system is provided. The multiple chamber test system includes a plurality of test chambers that each include a vibration table. In addition, each of the test chambers is provided with thermally controlled air from a common source. An output plenum for providing thermally controlled air to the test chambers may include a flow control device, to provide the same or similar thermal conditions in each of the test chambers. Where pneumatic actuators are used to impart movement to the vibration tables, the exhaust air from the actuators can be prevented from mixing with the thermally controlled chamber air. |
| US08616058B2 |
Angular velocity detecting device
A high-performance angular rate detecting device is provided. A driving part including a drive frame and a Coriolis frame is levitated by at least two fixing beams which share a fixed end and are extending in a direction orthogonal to a driving direction, thereby vibrating the driving part. Even when a substrate is deformed by mounting or heat fluctuation, internal stress generated to the fixed beam and a supporting beam is small, thereby maintaining a vibrating state such as resonance frequency and vibration amplitude constant. Therefore, a high-performance angular rate detecting device which is robust to changes in mounting environment can be obtained. |
| US08616055B2 |
Mode-matching apparatus and method for micromachined inertial sensors
In an inertial sensor having a resonator and an accelerometer, acceleration signals are induced by resonating at least one shuttle of the resonator in a device plane at a shuttle resonance mode frequency and modulating the motion of the at least one resonator shuttle to induce accelerometer signals from the accelerometer. The motion may be modulated in the device plane or out of the device plane. A shuttle resonance mode and an accelerometer resonance mode may me matched based on the induced accelerometer signals, for example, by providing a feedback signal to the inertial sensor in response to such induced accelerometer signals to substantially nullify the induced accelerometer signals. |
| US08616053B2 |
Method and device for monitoring the fill level of a liquid in a liquid container
A method for monitoring the fill level of a liquid in a liquid container, in particular for monitoring the coolant fill level in a reactor pressure vessel of a pressurized water reactor system, wherein a determination is made about the drop in the liquid level below the installed height of a heated thermal element by way of the temperature difference measured between said heated thermal element and an unheated thermal element associated therewith, both of said elements being disposed in the liquid container, said method comprising the especially reliable triggering of an alarm with a short response time while maintaining a low level of physical and controls engineering complexity when the liquid level to be monitored falls below a critical value. To this end, according to the invention the temporal progression of the temperature difference is continuously monitored for any significant increase, in particular sudden increase, within a time interval of pre-determined duration prior to the respective evaluation time, wherein an alarm signal is issued as soon as the change in the temperature difference within said time interval reaches or exceeds a pre-determined limit value. |
| US08616052B1 |
System and method of visualization of species characterization, dynamics and stratification of the magnetosphere
A system for identifying at least one species in space includes a physical response module for outputting multiple spectral data based on received signals from a target in space; a calibration module for receiving the spectral data and outputting a first dataset, including density of an {x, y, z} coordinate location in space as a function of time, t; and a classification module for receiving the first dataset, and outputting a second dataset including multiple tuples of {x, y, z, t, d} associated with the at least one species, wherein d is density of the at least one species. Also included is an HD processor for receiving the second dataset from the classification module and providing a visual image of the second dataset to a user. |
| US08616051B2 |
Method of analyzing a number of hydrocarbons contained in a drilling fluid, and associated device
The method includes extraction of gases contained in a mud, in order to obtain a gas stream of extracted gases containing hydrocarbons to be analyzed and at least one parasitic compound. The method includes transporting the gas stream through a transport line (54) and passing it through a separation column (121) in order to separate the hydrocarbons to be analyzed according to their elution times in the separation column (121). The parasitic compound is likely to have an elution time in the separation column (121) between the elution time for the first hydrocarbon to be analyzed and the elution time of the final hydrocarbon to be analyzed. The method includes passing the gas stream over a surface (141) for chemical and/or physical interaction with the parasitic compound in order to selectively retain the or each parasitic compound without retaining the hydrocarbons to be analyzed. |
| US08616050B1 |
Bond surface testing apparatus and method
A bond surface testing apparatus includes a solution chamber; a plurality of solutions in the solution chamber, the solution chamber adapted to dispense the solutions onto a bonding surface; an information capture module carried by the solution chamber and adapted to capture information relating to bonding surface properties of the bonding surface; at least one analysis module interfacing with the information capture module and adapted to analyze the bonding surface properties of the bonding surface; and a structural wettability factor prediction module interfacing with the at least one analysis module and adapted to predict a structural wettability factor based on the bonding surface properties. |
| US08616045B2 |
Method and device for deriving the concentration of a gas dissolved in an electrical insulation oil
A method for deriving the concentration of a gas dissolved in an electrical insulating oil (2) comprises the following steps:—preparing a membrane (5) permeable to the gas, interposed between a container (7) of the oil (2) and a measuring chamber (4) that receives a part of the gas through the membrane (5);—measuring the value of gas concentration in the measuring chamber (4);—deriving an estimated value of the concentration of the gas in the oil (2) as a function of the measured value,—the measuring step comprising taking at successive measuring instants a plurality of measurements of the values of gas concentration in the measuring chamber (4);—the deriving step comprising calculating the estimated value of gas concentration in the oil (2), at an instant selected from said measuring instants, according to a non-linear function of the values measured at the selected measuring instant and at one or more of the measuring instants preceding the one selected. |
| US08616043B2 |
Methods and apparatus for calibrating pressure gauges in a substrate processing system
Systems and methods for calibrating pressure gauges in one or more process chambers coupled to a transfer chamber having a transfer volume is disclosed herein. The method includes providing a first pressure in the transfer volume and in a first inner volume of a first process chamber coupled to the transfer chamber, wherein the transfer volume and the first inner volume are fluidly coupled, injecting a calibration gas into the transfer volume to raise a pressure in the transfer volume and in the first inner volume to a second pressure, measuring the second pressure using each of a reference pressure gauge coupled to the transfer chamber and a first pressure gauge coupled to the first process chamber while the transfer volume and the first inner volume are fluidly coupled, and calibrating the first pressure gauge based on a difference in the measured second pressure between the reference pressure gauge and the first pressure gauge. |
| US08616042B2 |
Method and apparatus for calibrating dispensed deposits
A method of calibrating a dispenser of the type having an actuator that is movable over a variable stroke distance includes dispensing a quantity of viscous material from the dispenser by moving the actuator over one of a plurality of stroke distances, weighing the quantity of viscous material, repeating the acts of dispensing and weighing for each of the plurality of stroke distances, and displaying the weight of each of the dispensed quantities to a user using a user interface device. |
| US08616041B2 |
Method for calibrating a sensor system of a measuring bearing for a bearing installation
The invention relates to a method for calibrating a sensor system of at least one measuring bearing for a bearing installation, said method being used to adjust individual measured values of an individual bearing installation using representative reference values of a reference installation. |
| US08616032B2 |
Combined mechanical and electronic key
A combined mechanical and electronic key includes a housing with an edge area having a link configured with grooves, electronics disposed in the housing, a key portion, which has a bearing surface mounted in a rotatable manner about an axis along the link, an activating element in the bearing surface having at least two radially projecting wings and a radially projecting driver, where the activating element is movable between a passive and an active position, the key portion is movable between an inoperative position and an operative position, where in the inoperative and operative positions, in which the activating element occupies the passive position, each wing is in a respective groove, and during the movement between the inoperative and operative positions, in which the activating element occupies the active position, the wings are detached from the grooves, and the driver engages with a contour of the bearing surface. |
| US08616030B2 |
Porthole door for a front-loading laundry appliance, such as a washing machine, a washer-dryer machine, or a laundry dryer
A porthole door for a front-loading laundry appliance includes a door glass, a frame and a centering device. The door glass is curved inward toward an inside of the appliance. The frame includes an inner ring and a cover ring. The centering device is disposed on the frame and configured to bear resiliently against a peripheral edge of the door glass so as to provide a radial force acting on the door glass via the peripheral edge at various locations. The radial force brings the door glass into a centered position within the frame. |
| US08616028B2 |
Stator for BLDC motor and BLDC motor having the stator, power transmission device for washing machine, driving device for washing machine and full automatic washing machine using the same
Provided is a driving device for a full automatic washing machine in which a clutch unit can stop rotation of a dehydration axis without having a particular brake unit, since the clutch unit is closely adhered to a first dehydration axis and a bushing when the rotation of the dehydration axis is controlled according to a wash or dehydration stroke in a full automatic washing machine. In addition, since a clutch coupler of the clutch unit moves at a wash or dehydration stroke in a driving device of a washing machine to thus be attached to and detached from a clutch gear which controls rotation of the first dehydration axis, and to thereby control a rotational force which is transferred to an inner tub, the washing machine is embodied to have a simple clutch coupling structure. Further, a double-rotor and a single-stator of a brushless direct-current (BLDC) motor which is applied to a driving device of a washing machine are insert-molded into a waterproof structure, to thus maximize a contact area of a bulk molding compound (BMC) molding material to thereby maximize durability. |
| US08616024B2 |
Methods for forming grooves and separating strengthened glass substrate sheets
Methods for separating strengthened glass articles from glass substrate sheets and strengthened glass substrate sheets are described herein. In one embodiment, a method of separating a glass article from a glass substrate sheet includes forming at least one groove on at least one surface of the glass substrate sheet. The at least one groove continuously extends around a perimeter of the glass article and extends partially through a thickness of the glass substrate sheet. The method further includes strengthening the glass substrate sheet by a strengthening process and separating the glass article from the glass substrate sheet along the at least one groove such that one or more edges of the glass article are under compressive stress. In another embodiment, a strengthened glass substrate sheet includes an ion exchanged glass having one or more grooves in one or more strengthened surface layers, the one or more grooves defining glass articles. |
| US08616021B2 |
Natural gas liquefaction process
The invention relates to a process for liquefying a gas stream rich in methane, said process comprising: (a) providing said gas stream; (b) withdrawing a portion of said gas stream for use as a refrigerant; (c) compressing said refrigerant; (d) cooling said compressed refrigerant with an ambient temperature cooling fluid; (e) subjecting the cooled, compressed refrigerant to supplemental cooling; (f) expanding the refrigerant of (e) to further cool said refrigerant, thereby producing an expanded, supplementally cooled refrigerant; (g) passing said expanded, supplementally cooled refrigerant to a heat exchange area; and, (h) passing said gas stream of (a) through said heat exchange area to cool at least part of said gas stream by indirect heat exchange with said expanded, supplementally cooled refrigerant, thereby forming a cooled gas stream. In further embodiments for improved efficiencies, additional supplemental cooling may be provided after one or more other compression steps. |
| US08616015B2 |
Cooling circuit for removing waste heat from an electromechanical converter and power generating plant with a cooling circuit of this type
A cooling circuit for removing waste heat from a cooling device of an electromechanical converter is provided. The cooling circuit includes a chilling medium, a cooler for extracting heat from the chilling medium, a return connecting the cooling device of the converter to the cooler and conducts warm chilling medium, a feed connecting the cooler to the cooling device of the converter and conducts cool chilling medium, and an absorption chiller for extracting heat from the chilling medium. The absorption chiller is driven by the heat of the warm chilling medium that is in the return. |
| US08616014B2 |
Compressor having capacity modulation or fluid injection systems
A compressor may include first and second scroll members and first and second pistons. The first scroll member includes a first end plate and a first scroll wrap. The second scroll member includes a second end plate and a second scroll wrap that is intermeshed with the first scroll wrap to define moving fluid pockets. The second end plate may include a first and second passages, first and second recesses, and first and second ports extending through the second end plate and communicating with at least one of the pockets. The first piston may be disposed in the first recess and movable between first and second positions controlling communication between the first passage and the first port. The second piston may be disposed in the second recess and movable between first and second positions controlling communication between at least one of the pockets and said second passage. |
| US08616013B2 |
Ice detecting method and apparatus for a refrigerator
A method of determining a amount of ice collected in a storage container of a refrigerator, the ice being discharged into the storage container by an ice maker having an ice detecting sensor with a heater, the method comprises determining whether or not the ice storage container is full or nearly full of ice by turning on the detecting sensor for a prescribed period of time. In one embodiment, the heater is turned on while the determining step is preformed. In an alternative embodiment, the heater is continuously maintained in an “ON” state. |
| US08616011B2 |
Internal clearing function for a refrigerant recovery/recharge machine
An apparatus and method providing a refrigeration servicing system that comprises a clean refrigerant source, a recovery circuit and a flushing circuit. The recovery circuit can be configured to recover refrigerant from a cooling system. After recovery cycle is completed, the flushing circuit that is coupled to the recovery circuit can flush clean refrigerant through the recovery circuit. A housing can be provided and configured to house the refrigerant source, the recovery circuit and the flushing circuit. |
| US08616010B2 |
Vortex tube enclosure cooler with water barrier
An apparatus for cooling an enclosure provided. The enclosure has at least one opening for receiving cool air and discharging heated air. The apparatus includes a vortex tube with a first end for discharging warm air and a second end for discharging cool air. The apparatus further includes an inlet between the ends of the vortex tube for directing compressed air tangentially into the interior of the vortex tube. A first housing covers the first end of the vortex tube and creates a space through which warm air is channeled to the exterior. The vortex tube is connected by an attachment to the opening of the enclosure so that the vortex tube can discharge cool air into the interior of the enclosure. The apparatus further includes an air outlet conduit at an end of the attachment to facilitate discharge of heated air for the enclosure. Also, the apparatus includes at least one barrier that permits the outflow of warm air from the first housing and heated air from the air outlet conduit while blocking the inflow of moisture and other substances. |
| US08616008B2 |
Non-freezing refrigerator
The present invention discloses a non-freezing refrigerator which can keep the contents in a non-frozen state by an electric field. The non-freezing refrigerator includes a setting unit for selecting and setting a magnitude and frequency of a voltage, a generating unit for generating an electric field according to the voltage having the set magnitude and frequency, and applying the electric field to a storing space for storing the contents, and a freezing cycle for cooling the storing space. The contents are kept in the non-frozen state below a phase transition temperature. |
| US08616002B2 |
Gas turbine premixing systems
Methods and systems are provided for premixing combustion fuel and air within gas turbines. In one embodiment, a combustor includes an upstream mixing panel configured to direct compressed air and combustion fuel through a premixing zone to form a fuel-air mixture. The combustor also includes a downstream mixing panel configured to mix additional combustion fuel with the fuel-air mixture to form a combustion mixture. |
| US08616001B2 |
Driven starter pump and start sequence
Various thermodynamic power-generating cycles are disclosed. A turbopump arranged in the cycles is started and ramped-up using a starter pump arranged in parallel with the main pump of the turbopump. Once the turbopump is able to self-sustain, a series of valves may be manipulated to deactivate the starter pump and direct additional working fluid to a power turbine for generating electrical power. |
| US08615998B2 |
Lubrication device of turbocharger of engine for vehicle
A first turbocharger comprises a first center housing and a first return passage. A second turbocharger comprises a second center housing and a second return passage. The first return passage joins the second return passage at a junction. The length of the second return passage from the second center housing to the junction is longer than that of the first return passage from the first center housing to the junction. A bellows-shaped vibration absorption portion is provided at the second return passage. The first return passage comprises a first upstream return passage and a first downstream return passage, and the first upstream and downstream return passages are connected to each other via the flexible hose. |
| US08615995B2 |
Compensation tank for a hydraulic motor vehicle brake system
A fluid reservoir for a motor vehicle hydraulic brake system, having a housing with at least one fluid chamber, the housing preferably having a housing upper part and a housing lower part, a reservoir warning device for monitoring the reservoir filling level of the fluid reservoir, a filler neck for filling the fluid reservoir, a cap for fluid-tight closure of the filler neck, provisions for pressure balancing of the fluid reservoir and preferably a canister-shaped filling filter arranged in the area of the filler neck and having a wall and a base.In order to provide a cost-effective and easily assembled fluid reservoir, the filling filter, which reliably prevents the ingress of dirt, extends into the fluid chamber and includes a wall molded onto the housing of the fluid reservoir that adjoins the reservoir filler neck. |
| US08615992B2 |
Construction machine
A construction machine includes a negative parking brake whose braking state is released by a supply of hydraulic fluid. It also includes a parking brake hydraulic circuit that is branched from a hydraulic fluid supplying circuit, which supplies the hydraulic fluid to a transmission of the construction machine, and supplies the hydraulic fluid to the parking brake. The parking brake hydraulic circuit includes a check valve that prevents backflow of the hydraulic fluid of the parking brake to the hydraulic fluid supplying circuit, and it includes an operation switching valve, which is provided closer to the parking brake than the check valve, for switching between an activation and a release of the parking brake. The parking brake hydraulic circuit also includes a relief valve, which is interposed between the check valve and the operation switching valve and which discharges the hydraulic fluid of the parking brake when the relief valve is opened. |
| US08615988B2 |
Electrical diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration
An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine includes a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that is disposed downstream of the engine and that filters particulates from the exhaust. An electrical heater is disposed upstream of the DPF and selectively heats the exhaust to initiate combustion of the particulates within the exhaust as it passes therethrough. Heat generated by combustion of the particulates induces combustion of particulates within the DPF. |
| US08615981B2 |
Integrated coal gasification combined cycle facility
An integrated coal gasification combined cycle facility is provided that can prevent a reduction in power generation efficiency even when low-grade coal having a relatively-high moisture content is used. Included are: a gasification section that gasifies supplied coal; a gas power generation section that generates power by using gas supplied from the gasification section; a steam power generation section that generates power by using the heat of exhaust gas discharged from the gas power generation section; and a coal drying unit that dries the coal by using exhaust heat discharged from the steam power generation section and that supplies the dried coal to the gasification section. |
| US08615979B2 |
Cotton denim fabric with a low twist and method of making thereof
A cotton denim fabrics and method of making denim fabrics that are soft, smooth, bright and include a low twist multiple, a sizing at the surface of the yarn with a viscosity such that the sizing remains substantially at the surface of the yarn, and a dyed cored wherein an indigo dye penetrates deeply into the core. |
| US08615976B1 |
Electric motor clutch/brake assembly
A clutch/brake assembly is provided which includes a coil plate non-rotatably captured between the upper housing and the lower housing and having affixed thereon a ring shaped coil, a clutch rotor rotatably secured to the shaft and having a groove configured to accommodate therein the ring shaped coil, and a clutch output assembly having a clutch/brake disc and a clutch output shaft. The clutch/brake disc and the clutch output shaft are attached to one another by a plurality of springs. The clutch/brake assembly may be mounted on a deck of a lawnmower to drive a blade. |
| US08615973B2 |
Packaging machine for producing a multilayer package
The invention relates to a thermoform packaging machine for manufacturing a multilayer package, to methods for manufacturing a multilayer package comprising three or four product layers as well as to multilayer packages comprising three or four product layers. |
| US08615971B2 |
Automatic tablet filling method and system
A system for automatically filling tablets into tablet containers comprising at least one tablet compartment for receiving tablets comprises: reception means (30) for receiving a patient order containing a patient identification (PAT-ID) and at least one prescription comprising prescription data (REZ) regarding the types of tablets to be taken by the patient and instructions for taking said tablets; allocation means (40) for allocating the prescription data (REZ) and patient identification (PAT-ID) to respective tablet containers (1); at least one automatic tablet dispenser (50) containing supplies of a plurality of tablet types for automatically filling at least one tablet compartment of a respective tablet container, wherein the allocation means (40) or the automatic tablet dispenser (50) is/are designed for determining, from the prescription data (REZ), the number of tablets of the respective types of tablets to be taken by a patient at certain times and for allocating a tablet compartment (2) of a tablet container (1) to each determined time for taking the tablets, and the automatic tablet dispenser (50) is designed for filling the tablets thus determined for each determined time for taking them into the tablet compartment (2) of the respective tablet container (1), which compartment has been allocated. |
| US08615967B1 |
Construction element for erecting structure, and method of erecting structure with use thereof
A construction element for erecting a structure has a first panel extending vertically to form a wall and a second panel extending horizontally to form a horizontal partition when they are arranged in an erected structure, the panels together form a three-dimensional configuration and are connected with one another so that in the erected structure they extend perpendicularly to one another and are turnable to include an angle there between to reduce a horizontal extension of the construction element for transportation purposes. |
| US08615964B1 |
Post design for corrosion resistance railing and method for installation
An improved mounting structure for the posts of hand rail systems including a mounting arm member positioned within a sleeve monolithically formed within the inner chamber of the post. The sleeve includes a slit that allows for the outflow of water, thereby limiting corrosion and degrading of the post and mounting structure. A series of nubbed projections create grooves within the surface of the sleeve, to secure the mounting arm into the sleeve in a strong manner. A secure fit limits the amount of liquid trapped within the sleeve reducing corrosion. The mounting arm has smaller dimensions, reducing the chances that the arm comes into contact with support rods embedded within the concrete during installation. By avoiding contact with the support rods, concrete spalling is dramatically reduced, adding to the lifetime of the rail system. |
| US08615960B2 |
Solar collector module
Improvements in the design and construction of solar collector modules. Aspects of the invention include improvements in the layout of a frame for a solar collector module, and in the joining of structural members of the frame at nodes. In one example, a module of a solar collector includes a reflector and a three-dimensional structural frame that supports the reflector. The frame is made up of substantially rigid elongate frame members interconnected at nodes. Improved node connection components include hubs or frame members having tabs for receiving frame member connections. A tab may have a width that is substantial in relation to its height. The frame may incorporate asymmetry in its layout, in the size or presence of frame members, or in the positioning of the nodes. |
| US08615959B2 |
Fastener-less track assembly for supporting wall studs
This application relates to a track assembly for supporting wall studs. The assembly includes an upper track and a lower track each having a base and opposed first and second sidewalls. A plurality of tabs are formed in the track sidewalls at spaced longitudinal intervals. Each tab defines a slot between the tab and an adjacent portion of the sidewall for slidably receiving a wall panel of a stud. The track assembly allows wall studs to be quickly and removably coupled to the tracks without the need for ladders, fasteners or special tools. In one embodiment the assembly is a slip track system permitting deflection of the upper track relative to the lower track after installation of the wall studs. |
| US08615955B2 |
Locking system, floorboard comprising such a locking system, as well as method for making floorboards
A locking system for mechanical joining of floorboards constructed from a body, a rear balancing layer and an upper surface layer. A strip, which is integrally formed with the body of the floorboard and which projects from a joint plane and under an adjoining board has a locking element which engages a locking groove in the rear side of the adjoining board. The joint edge provided with the strip is modified with respect to the balancing layer, for example by means of machining of the balancing layer under the strip, in order to prevent deflection of the strip caused by changes in relative humidity. Also, a floorboard provided with such a locking system, as well as a method for making floorboards with such a locking system. |
| US08615954B1 |
Ridge tile or solar panel attachment system for a roof
An improved solar panel attachment system for a roof and method for its use include a pedestal that has a plurality of protrusions and keyways located along its bottom wall surface and extending along the length of the pedestal. The pedestal is placed into a paddy of foam adhesive laid along a roof underlayment and the keyways receive and engage with the expanding adhesive for bonding the pedestal directly to the roof without the need for mechanical fastening. The protrusions provide spacing between the bottom wall surface and the roof so that an adequate amount of foam adhesive resides between these wall surfaces and those structures. Attaching means are secured to the top wall surface so that the pedestal may be used to securely mount (or secure) a solar panel or other object to a roof. |
| US08615953B2 |
Panel, more particularly floor panel
A panel having a core and at least two opposite edges with coupling parts at two opposite edges. The coupling parts of the panels can be coupled to each other by means of a downward movement, such that a locking is obtained in the plane of the panels and perpendicular to the edges, as well as perpendicular to the plane of the panels. The coupling parts at the two edges comprise locking parts ensuring locking in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the panels, and at least one of these locking parts forms part of a flexible portion made in one piece with the core. The flexible portion is bendable at least in the plane of the panel. The panel includes at least one support portion which forms a support against bending of the flexible portion in a direction transverse to the plane of the coupled panels. |
| US08615951B2 |
Slat wall assembly
A slat wall assembly comprising a first slat, an attachment assembly, and a second slat. The first slat includes a body and a lower flange. The body includes an upper edge and a lower edge. The lower flange emanates from the lower edge of the body. The attachment assembly is associable with the lower flange of the first slat and facilitates attachment of the first slat to an existing wall. The second slat includes a body and an upper flange. The body includes an upper edge and a lower edge. The upper flange emanates from the upper edge of the body. The upper flange is configured to be insertable into the lower flange of the first slat and retainable therein. |
| US08615948B2 |
Seismic perimeter brace
A seismic bracket for supporting ends of suspended ceiling grid runners from a wall comprising a stamped sheet metal body, the body having a horizontally extending portion and a vertically extending portion, the vertically extending portion, in its installed position, rising above the top of a standard grid runner a distance at least 1½ times the height of such standard grid runner, the vertically extending portion having two sections generally coextensive in the vertical direction, a first section being integral with the horizontally extending portion and a second section arranged to be in a vertical plane that intersects a vertical plane occupied by the horizontally extending portion, the horizontally extending portion being arranged to support a grid runner to move longitudinally a limited distance, the second section of the vertically extending portion having an aperture for securing the bracket to the wall at a location substantially above the grid tee. |
| US08615942B2 |
Metal header frame for a building wall
An improved metal or steel header frame is provided for use in a metal framed building wall or the like, wherein the header frame is adapted for quick and easy installation to span a framed opening such as a door or window opening in the building wall. The improved header frame includes a pair of metal bracket clips adapted for screw-on and/or bolt-on attachment to a pair of jamb studs disposed at opposite sides of the door or window opening. These bracket clips define support lands for vertically supporting opposite ends of an elongated header stud which can be quickly and easily seated thereon to span the door or window opening, and attached thereto by one or more suitable fasteners such as screws. |
| US08615941B2 |
Photovoltaic module kit including connector assembly for non-penetrating array installation
A PV module kit for non-penetrating rooftop installation, including a plurality of PV modules and a plurality of connectors. Each of the PV modules includes a PV laminate and a frame forming a mounting region assembled thereto. The connectors include a male connector having a male fastener extending from a head, and a female connector having a female fastener assembled within a head. The heads are entirely formed of plastic. The kit provides a mounted array state including a junction at which the mounting region of at least two of the PV modules are aligned and interconnected by engagement of the male connector with the female connector. The so-formed junction is substantially electrically insulated. The plurality of connectors can further include a spacer connector including a head forming a bore sized to slidably receive the male fastener, with all of the connector heads being identical. |
| US08615932B2 |
Barrier element for vehicle door
A barrier element for protecting an interior vehicle door panel comprises a body shaped to fit over the vehicle door interior panel and to block access to at least one of an interior door handle, a lock control and a window control. The barrier element is removably securable to the vehicle door or to the vehicle door panel such that the barrier element can be removed to expose the panel. |
| US08615931B2 |
Low-profile threshold barrier
A low-profile barrier and method of installation is provided including a barrier door located in an opening defined by a frame having a pair of upwardly extending arms connected to a lower cross member. In an un-installed position, the lower cross member has a curvature biasing the upwardly extending arms outward. In an installed position, the curvature of the lower cross member is compressed to zero so that the lower cross member lays flat against a lower surface. |
| US08615929B2 |
Door opening/closing device for ice dispenser in refrigerator
A door opening/closing device for an ice dispenser is disclosed. The door opening/closing device includes a DC motor 1 which is rotated in forward and reverse directions, a 2-staged spur gear 3 meshed with a worm gear 2 installed on a driving shaft, a 3-staged spur gear 4 meshed with the 2-staged spur gear 3, and a fan-shaped output gear 5 meshed with the 3-staged spur gear 4 and rotated in forward and reverse directions by interconnection of the motor 1 and the gears 2, 3 and 4. If the output gear 5 is rotated in the forward direction, a rod-shaped boss 5a pushes and rotates a link lever 6a to press a coil spring 8 wound around an opening/closing link 6 and thus open a door 7. If the output gear 5 is rotated in the reverse direction, the coil spring 8 is released from a pressurized state, and the rod-shaped boss 5a rotates in the reverse direction while abutting against the link lever 6a, so that the door 7 is closed without generating impact and sound. |
| US08615927B2 |
Noncontact obstacle detection system using RFID technology
An obstacle detection system includes a first component and a second component. The motor is configured to move the second component toward the first component. Radio frequency identification tags (RFIDs) are connected to one of the first component and the second component. A controller is operatively connected to the motor and has a transmitter operatively connected to the other of the first component and the second component. The transmitter is operable to create a magnetic field between the first component and the second component. Each of the RFIDs is operable to provide a respective signal in response to the field. The controller is configured to modify power delivery from a power source to the motor when the respective signals received by a receiver change due to at least a portion of the magnetic field being at least partially blocked or attenuated. A method of detecting an obstacle is also provided. |
| US08615924B2 |
Enhanced-stability collapsible A-frame plant support with removable greenhouse cover
An enhanced-stability, A-frame-shaped plant support for the support of plants such as tomato vines, or other fruits and vegetables growing in soil which, while supporting plants laden with heavy fruits or vegetables, is stable and greenhouse tent wind-sail resistant, in part because of a readily usable starting width gauge indicator on detent latch members operable to controlling the ultimate width between pivotable opposing halves of the plant support during installation to a desired depth in the soil. After use, when removed from the soil, the A-frame-shaped plant support collapses, pivoting about preferably hog-ring type interconnection rings between the opposing halves of the plant support for facilitating easy removal from the ground and folding flat for easy storage. |
| US08615920B2 |
Leaderless quick release fishing assembly
A saltwater fishing assembly including a body resembling a forage fish. The body includes a quick connect device that is swivelable relative to a fishing line and is reelable to a fishing rod tip. A quick connection subassembly is connectable to the quick connect device of the body and includes a hook and is releasable with a hooked fish. Methods of using the fishing assembly are also provided. |
| US08615917B2 |
Protective cover for firearm lower receiver
A protective cover for a firearm lower receiver attaches directly and securely to the lower receiver, protecting it from any impact or debris, yet it may still be used with existing firearm protective cases and bags. Forward and rearward assembly pin holes allow securing of the protective cover to the lower receiver with assembly pins. An extrusion on a lower surface of the protective cover is capable of depressing a magazine door of a magazine installed in the lower receiver and may be transparent to allow a user to view contents of the magazine while keeping the contents protected from debris. |
| US08615916B2 |
Thermal barrier for firearms and firearm provided with such a thermal barrier
A thermal barrier (1) for firearms (A) comprising a body (2), optionally substantially cylindrical, made of a ceramic material. The body (2) is shaped and configured for being placed between a respective barrel (C) of a firearm (A) and at least one structure (S) of the firearm (A). The body (2) of the thermal barrier (1) has a first portion (3) suitable for remaining facing the barrel (C) of the respective firearm (A), and a second portion (4) facing the side opposite with respect to the first portion (3), optionally suitable for bearing upon at least one portion of the structure (S) of the firearm (A). |
| US08615910B2 |
Pop-up gift card holder
A holder for receiving and holding a gift card includes one or more pop-up elements that project upward from the inner surfaces of the main body of the holder. When presented for sale, a backer panel bearing a removeably attached gift card projects from the holder and is separable from the holder post-sale by tearing or cutting along perforation line therebetween. The gift card is removed from the backer panel and installed upon a pop-element inside in the holder, the holder is secured in a closed position and the holder is presented to the gift recipient. |
| US08615909B2 |
Steam discharge unit for use in a soleplate of a steam iron
A steam discharge unit (1) comprises a chamber (10) for accommodating a flow of a water-steam mixture and heating the water-steam mixture, an inlet (11) to the chamber (10), and an outlet (12) from the chamber (10). In order to avoid water droplets from exiting the chamber (10) through the outlet (12) along with a flow of steam, special measures are taken, which comprise a barrier (20) arranged inside the chamber (10), in a flow path of a water-steam mixture from the inlet (11) to the outlet (12), and a hydrophobic surface (30) arranged preferably close to the outlet (12). In case water droplets remain inside the chamber (10) and tend to move towards the outlet (12), an actual release of the water droplets from the chamber (10) cannot take place by virtue of the presence of the barrier (20) and the hydrophobic surface (30) as mentioned. |
| US08615906B2 |
Drilling bucket
A drilling bucket adapted to combine with a prime mover vehicle such as an excavator. The drilling bucket includes a floor pivotally combined with the bucket. The floor has an open position wherein collected spoils are emptied from the bucket and a closed position for retaining spoils in the bucket during operation. A release assembly is adapted to securely hold the floor in its closed position until it is actuated to release it to its open position. Some embodiments of the drilling bucket comprise two separate internal cavities. The first cavity is adapted to receive the spoils as the bucket is rotated beneath the ground by the prime mover vehicle. The second cavity is adapted to house portions of the release assembly. The second cavity may serve as a vent which allows air to pass the bucket as the bucket is being raised or lowered in a hole. |
| US08615896B2 |
Clothing dryer
A clothing dryer having a cover structure capable of increasing quantity of air generated from a cooling fan. The clothing dryer includes a first cover covering the cooling fan and a second cover connected to the first cover. A cutoff is provided at a connection area between the first cover and the second cover to branch a flow of air and is positioned below a rotational center of the cooling fan. |
| US08615891B2 |
Razor with a retractable shaving cartridge and razor handle for such a handle
A razor including an elongated shaving cartridge that has at least one blade with a blade edge extending along a transversal axis. The razor includes a razor handle with a handle body having a hollow housing with an opening at its front end and a cartridge carrier that carries the shaving cartridge and is slidably mounted on the handle body between shaving and non-shaving positions. The razor handle also includes an actuator rotatably mounted on the handle body for controlling cartridge carrier motions, and a transmission mechanism that converts actuator rotation into a sliding motion of the cartridge carrier. The opening of the handle body is elongated, with a length sufficient to accommodate the shaving cartridge with the blade edge extending along the transversal axis. In both the shaving and non-shaving positions, and while between the shaving and non-shaving positions, the shaving cartridge extends parallel to the transversal axis. |
| US08615885B2 |
Method for producing the rolling elements of a ball roller bearing
A method for producing, ball rollers. The following method steps are performed to produce the ball rollers: (A) cutting unfinished sections at a defined length from a round wire that has a defined diameter, (B) compression molding ball roller blanks that have end face depressions in the form of a die tool, and (C) grinding the ball roller blanks to the desired final dimensions in a ball grinding machine. The cut-off unfinished sections have a volume by which during compression molding an approximately tangential raceway transition from one ball roller half to the other ball roller half and material fibers extending under the running surfaces of the ball rollers parallel or approximately parallel to the running surfaces arise. In addition, the ball roller blanks are ground to the final dimensions in a horizontal ball grinding machine loaded exclusively with ball roller blanks of the same size. |
| US08615877B2 |
Method of producing a nozzle or a divergent nozzle element made of a composite
A fiber preform is obtained by conforming panels of fiber texture on a former having a surface that reproduces the shape desired for a surface of the nozzle or the nozzle divergent section that is to be made. The panels are bonded together via their mutually contacting edges. A consolidated fiber reinforcement is formed by shaping the fiber preform impregnated with a consolidation composition including a resin. The shaping of the fiber preform is performed between the former and a jacket applied against the impregnated fiber preform so as the consolidated fiber reinforcement has a fiber volume percentage of at least 35%, and a thickness of less than 5 mm over at least a major fraction of its axial dimension. The densification of the fiber reinforcement is continued by chemical vapor infiltration after pyrolyzing the resin so that once densified, a part is obtained that has practically the shape and the wall thickness of the nozzle or the nozzle divergent section that is to be made. |
| US08615875B2 |
Method of manufacturing a blading component
A method of manufacturing a metal blading sector for low-pressure guide vanes of a turbomachine of which at least one blade includes an internal cavity configured to accept or communicate with a gas detection probe and at least one hole formed in the wall constituting a passage for gas from a low-pressure zone of the turbomachine toward the cavity and the probe through the fitting, into a casting mold, of a core corresponding to the cavity and the casting of a molten metal in the cavity of the casting mold. The core includes, for each hole for communication with the cavity, a protrusion penetrating the internal surface of the mold and constituting the only element holding the core in position in the casting mold. |
| US08615871B2 |
Chip mounted wiring substrate
A chip mounted circuit substrate (COF) 4 to be installed on a liquid crystal display panel 1 comprises an arrangement wiring electrodes 42 formed on a base film 41 at a first pitch P1 in a first direction (A-direction) and two of first positioning marks 43 formed at both sides of the arrangement of the wiring electrodes 43 in the first direction. Before installing the COF 4 on the liquid crystal display panel 1 by thermo-compression bonding, the first pitch P1 of the wiring electrodes 42 is selected to be narrower than a second pitch P2 after performing the thermo-compression bonding in consideration with expansion of the base film 41 in the first direction. In addition, a part of each the first positioning mark 43 overlaps a second positioning mark 12 formed on the liquid crystal display panel 1 and protrudes outward from the second positioning mark 12 in the first direction. |
| US08615869B2 |
System for assembling electrical energy modules
A system of assembling storage devices in the form of electrical energy modules includes two pairs of positive and negative terminals for each module, in which each of the pairs of positive and negative terminals is distributed over at least one of the external faces of each module, thus forming a terminal strip of the module. At least one interconnection block can be inserted onto part of each of the terminal strips of two separate modules and itself includes at least two pairs of anchoring points so as to form an assembly block, either by stacking the storage modules or by juxtaposing the same. At least two anchoring points of each interconnection block are in electrical contact, while stiffening the assembly, in a manner complementary to the other anchoring points. |
| US08615867B2 |
Superconductive element and relative preparation process
A superconductive element is described, comprising a rigid support made of a non-superconductive material, said support comprising at least one superconductive track formed by a groove containing a superconductive material having a density equal to at least 85% of the value of its theoretical density, and the process for producing said element. The present invention also relates to the possible uses of the superconductive elements, and also to superconductive devices comprising said superconductive elements. |
| US08615865B2 |
Slip on groove coupling with multiple sealing gasket
Methods, gaskets, and couplings for connecting two pipes are disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of placing the assembled coupling over one end of a pipe, aligning the second pipe with the first pipe, sliding the coupling off the end of the first pipe so that a portion of the coupling is around each pipe, and securing the coupling. |
| US08615864B2 |
Disassembling and recycling a battery
A disassembled battery and methods for disassembling the battery are provided. Holes are formed in an enclosure of the battery and a fluid is injected into the battery to inactivate an electrolyte inside the battery. The enclosure of the battery is then cut to define strips in the enclosure that can be peeled back to expose a core inside the battery. The core can be extracted and recycled. |
| US08615861B2 |
Direct drive variable crimp on flange tool
A crimping assembly is provided for securing a cover part to a structural member. The crimping assembly includes a housing, a drive shaft disposed within the housing and rotatable in a first direction, and a first roller fixedly secured to the drive shaft and rotatable therewith. The crimping assembly also includes a slide shaft disposed within the housing and rotatable in a second direction. A second roller is fixedly secured to the slide shaft and rotatable therewith. A drive mechanism is operably coupled to the drive and slide shafts to roll the first and second rollers over the cover part to secure the cover part to the structural member. A coupling mechanism is operably connected between the drive shaft and the slide shaft to allow movement of the slide shaft towards and away from the drive shaft during operation of the crimping assembly to accommodate variations in flange thickness. |
| US08615860B2 |
Jaw grip force adjustment system for offset and 90 degree pulling heads
The invention provides a system configured to adjust a jaw gripping force of a pulling head. A locking nut is threadedly attached to the pulling head and defines an aperture which extends therethrough. A frame adaptor is at least partially positioned within the aperture of the locking nut. The frame adaptor further receives a portion of the pulling head and a piston of a power tool within an aperture thereof, with the portion and the piston engaging one another within the aperture of the frame adaptor. The portion of the pulling head is operatively associated with a jaw of the pulling head. An adjustment nut is threadedly attached to the frame adaptor. Rotation of the adjustment nut, with the locking nut in an unlocked position, causes the jaw gripping force of the pulling head to either be strengthened or weakened, depending on the direction of rotation. |
| US08615850B2 |
Window adjustment cord safety connector
A window covering cord collection and coordination device of the invention involves two halves of an assembly which acts as an enclosure for collection of upper control lines, and as an attachment for a downwardly extending single actuation line which may be optionally employed. A key projection member fits within a complementary key slot member at a first or upper end of the window covering cord collection and coordination device and which is oriented and designed to disengage upon any significant downward separating force acting upon the series of upper controlled lines which the window covering cord collection and coordination device engages through an upper slot which enables upper controlled lines to exert a separating force against the first and second housing sections which make up the window covering cord collection and coordination device. |
| US08615845B2 |
Vacuum assembly for automobile
The disclosed vacuum cleaner system for an automobile fits in a cavity in the vehicle and has a tank that can be removed in a lateral direction without tools and without detaching the vacuum hose. A circuit board that carries an electronic controller is positioned alongside the motor and extends generally parallel to both the axis of the motor and the lateral direction in which the tank is removed. Cooling air is drawn though a cooling air inlet on the cabin wall to the circuit board, and then one side of the motor, through the center of the motor, to the cooling fan. From there, it is blown into a cavity where it joins exhausted working air from the vacuum and is exhausted from the vehicle through an air release opening that leads to the exterior of the vehicle. |
| US08615842B2 |
Mop bucket and wringer system with ability to reduce liquid movement
A mop bucket system may include a mop bucket to contain fluids, a wringer unit including a wringer cone connected to the mop bucket to remove the fluid from a mop, and a pivotable energy-dissipation device connected to the wringer unit to dissipate energy of the fluid in the wringer unit. The energy dissipation device may pivot between a first position and a second position, and the energy dissipation device may include a aperture. The energy dissipation device may include a notch, and the energy dissipation device may include a sleeve bushing. The energy dissipation device may include a side surface having a curved portion. |
| US08615837B2 |
Motorized drain cleaning machine with speed controller
A drain-cleaning machine comprises a cable, a motor assembly, and a speed control assembly. The cable comprises a longitudinal axis. The motor assembly is configured to rotate the cable about the longitudinal axis of the cable. The motor assembly comprises a motor and a motor control device. The motor is configured to operate at an operating speed that may vary within a range of operating speeds. The motor is configured to produce a substantially constant torque while operating at varying operating speeds across the entire range of operating speeds. The motor is configured to be powered by DC power. The motor control device is configured to receive AC power from an AC power source, convert the AC power into DC power, and communicate the DC power to the motor. The speed control assembly is configured to vary the operating speed of the motor within the range of operating speeds. |
| US08615831B2 |
Self inflating air mattress
A mattress includes a plurality of air cells. Each cell has a low air permeability envelope and a foam inflation structure that defines one or more voids inside the low air permeability envelope. The foam inflation structures expand when unloaded to cause inflation of the one or more voids. When unloaded, the ratio of the volume of the foam inflation structure to the volume of the one or more voids within the low air permeability envelope is not the same in all the cells. |
| US08615830B2 |
Covered pillow having enclosed pocket containing corresponding articles
A pillow system comprises a pillow having a pocket extending inside the pillow that contains one or more articles having a theme which corresponds to the theme of the outer surface of the pillow. The pillow has a top panel and a bottom panel joined at the periphery to define a peripheral edge and cushioning material disposed inside. The outer surface, having a cover theme, substantially covers one or both of the panels. The pocket extends into and is substantially enclosed by the cushioning material. Access to the pocket is through a pocket inlet along a portion of the peripheral edge. A closure mechanism, such as a zipper, at the inlet substantially closes the pocket to enclose the articles inside. The articles have an article theme that corresponds to the cover theme. If desired, the pillow can also have a theme shape that corresponds to the cover and article themes. |
| US08615825B2 |
Liquid drainage system
A liquid drainage system for a sanitary installation has a liquid level sensor for detecting the level of liquid in a drainage receptacle. The sensor employs non-contact sensing, for example an electric field, to detect the liquid level and controls the operating of a drainage pump depending on the detected liquid level. The drainage receptacle may for example be the gulley of a shower tray, or a manifold connected to two or more sinks. |
| US08615824B2 |
Stool collector
A stool collector adapted for being positioned in a use position in which it is secured to a standard water closet or toilet to collect a stool sample delivered by a user, said stool collector comprising a rear piece adapted for being secured between rear halves of a toilet bowl and a tip-up toilet seat, respectively, of said toilet. The stool collector further comprises a front piece adapted for being secured between front halves of said toilet bowl and said tip-up toilet seat, respectively, said front piece comprising two lateral wings enclosing a cut-out adapted to allow for urine from said user to pass through into said toilet bowl in said use position, and an intermediate piece connecting said front and rear pieces and in said use position forming a stool collecting area adapted to receive said stool sample, said front, rear and intermediate pieces being manufactured from a flexible, foldable, biodegradable and highly water soluble paper material, said stool collector thus being suitable for being flushed in a standard water closet. |
| US08615823B2 |
Dual action flushing assembly for toilets
A flusher assembly includes a main body adapted for mounting to a toilet tank; and a flush handle assembly having a shaft rotatably mounted within the main body and operable in a full flush rotation position and a limited flush rotation. The assembly is simple, reliable and efficiently manufactured, and allows selection of full or limited volume flushing of toilets and, thereby, conservation of water. |
| US08615822B2 |
Air pressure activated toilet flushing system
An air activated toilet flush system, including: a toilet bowl; a reservoir; a fluid conduit between the reservoir and the toilet bowl; a system for supplying water into the reservoir; and a system for supplying air into the reservoir, wherein a supply of air into the reservoir causes fluid to flow from the reservoir through the fluid conduit and into the toilet bowl. |
| US08615821B2 |
Actuator having a clutch assembly
A clutch assembly is provided for coupling a drive shaft with a drive arm of an actuator for use with an automatic toilet flushing system, wherein the drive shaft is adapted for rotation via a motor in the actuator. The clutch assembly includes a rotatable body extending between the drive shaft and the drive aim and having a first engaging member. A clutch disk is secured to the drive shaft and includes a second engaging member adapted for cooperating with the first engaging member of the body. A fastener secures the clutch disk to the drive shaft and a biasing member is provided for biasing the body toward the clutch disk. The body is adapted to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member should a predetermined torque on the drive shaft be exceeded to disengage the first and second engaging members and prevent damage to the drive shaft. |
| US08615817B2 |
Protective headgear and protective armour and a method of modifying protective headgear and protective armour
The present invention provides protective headgear comprising a shell (26) having an inwardly facing surface which in use faces the head (10) of a user of the headgear and an outwardly facing surface which in use faces away from the head (10) of a user. An outer layer (28) overlies at least a portion of the outwardly facing surface of the shell (26) and rupturing means (30) is provided for fixedly attaching the outer layer (28) to the remainder of the headgear at one or more locations. The rupturing means (30) is configured so as to fail when a force greater than a selected threshold is received on an outer surface (28) of the headgear which acts in an at least part tangential direction to rotate the headgear and the head (10) of the user. Upon failure of the rupturing means (30) at the one or more locations, the received force causes at least part of the outer layer (28) receiving the force to move relative to the shell (26) in a manner which is similar to the protective movement of the human scalp (18) relative to the skull (16). The present invention also relates to protective armor (100) and to a method of modifying protective headgear and protective armor. |
| US08621660B2 |
Probe shape evaluation method for a scanning probe microscope
Provided is a method of evaluating a probe tip shape in a scanning probe microscope, including: measuring the probe tip shape by a probe shape test sample having a needle-like structure; determining radii of cross-sections at a plurality of distances from the apex; and calculating, based on the distances and the radii, a radius of curvature when the probe tip shape is approximated by a circle. |
| US08621659B2 |
Cantilever for magnetic force microscope and method of manufacturing the same
In a method of manufacturing this cantilever for the magnetic force microscope, a magnetic film is formed on a probe at a tip of the cantilever for the magnetic force microscope. When a non-magnetic rigid protective film is formed around the probe, the film is formed from the front of the probe of the cantilever for the magnetic force microscope at an angle (15° to 45°) and from the back of the probe of the cantilever for the magnetic force microscope in two directions each at an angle in a range of (15° to 30°). |
| US08621656B2 |
Method and apparatus for selecting a security policy
An approach is provided for selecting a security policy. A security policy manager determines, at a device, context information associated with a place. The security policy manager then determines a safety score associated with the place based, at least in part, on the context information and selects a security policy for the device based, at least in part, on the safety score. |
| US08621654B2 |
Using metadata in security tokens to prevent coordinated gaming in a reputation system
To prevent gaming of a reputation system, a security token is generated for a security module using metadata about the client observed during the registration of the security module. The registration server selects metadata for use in generating the security token. The generated security token is provided to identify the client in later transactions. A security server may conduct a transaction with the client and observe metadata about the client during the transaction. The security server also extracts metadata from the security token. The security server correlates the observed metadata during the transaction with the extracted metadata from the security token. Based on the result of the correlation, a security policy is applied. As a result, the metadata in the security token enables stateless verification of the client. |
| US08621653B2 |
Secure location collection and analysis service
A location collection system is described herein that provides a uniform facility for reporting location data to a cloud-based service from a variety of devices, and that provides a uniform facility for accessing aggregated location data collected by the cloud-based service. The system collects location information related to a user and reports the location information to a central service to provide a variety of useful services to the user. By providing a big, secure location vault in the cloud, the system enables big data analytics to be used to allow current and future questions to be asked of this data and to correlate this with other data to enable new scenarios not yet enabled. Thus, the location collection system provides a model to report, gather, and analyze location data across devices and users. |
| US08621652B2 |
Copying a web element with reassigned permissions
Disclosed herein is a computer implemented method and system for copying a web element with reassigned permissions. An element creator creates the web element in a first location in an online environment. The element creator assigns the permissions to one or more of multiple template users for the web element. The element creator defines a copy operation for the web element for a copying user. The definition comprises selecting one or more of the template users for the reassignment of the permissions. The copying user copies the web element to a second location in the online environment by performing the defined copy operation. The permissions of the selected template users are reassigned to the copying user for the copied web element. |
| US08621651B2 |
Enforcing content blackout
A system includes a network interface, a memory, and a processor. The network interface is configured to communicate, over a network, with a user device associated with a user. The memory is configured to store instructions to be executed by the processor. The processor is configured to execute the instructions to: receive, from the user device via the one or more network interfaces, a request for content; initiate an upload of the requested content to the user device in response to the request; receive a request for a license key from the user device in response to the initiation of the upload; determine whether the user device is outside a blackout region associated with the content; generate a license key when the one or more processors determine that the user device is outside the blackout region; and send the license key to the user device. |
| US08621650B2 |
Verification of content possession by an announcing peer in a peer-to-peer content distribution system
A tracker node verifies content possession by a peer node in a peer-to-peer content distribution system. Upon receiving an announcement that a peer node claims to possess a content item, the tracker node in one embodiment obtains the content item, selects a random portion of the content item; formulates a challenge based on the random portion of the content item and determines an expected challenge response. The challenge may comprise, for example, a request for a hash of the random portion (or alternatively, a hash of the random portion and a random seed value). The tracker node issues the challenge to the announcing node and verifies the announcing node's possession of the content item if the challenge response from the announcing node matches the expected challenge response. |
| US08621649B1 |
Providing a security-sensitive environment
A technique provides a security-sensitive environment. The technique involves establishing a first secure channel from a trusted server to a first data source DA. The technique further involves establishing a second secure channel from the trusted server to a second data source DB. The technique further involves, while the trusted server performs a set of collaborative operations in which the trusted server (i) accesses the first data source through the first secure channel (ii) accesses the second data source through the second secure channel, and (iii) generates a set of collaborative results based on information from the first and second data sources (i.e., the output of f(DA,DB)), running a set of security policy compliance operations in the trusted server to inhibit unauthorized leakage of data in the set of collaborative results. |
| US08621648B2 |
Method and system for secure exchange and use of electronic business cards
Some embodiments provide a system that facilitates the use of an electronic business card. During operation, the system obtains one or more permissions for the electronic business card. Next, the system manages use of the electronic business card by a recipient of the electronic business card based on the permissions. |
| US08621647B1 |
Restricting privileges of first privileged process in operating system using second privileged process
Some embodiments provide a system that restricts privileges for a target process in an operating system. During operation, the system receives a request from the target process to restrict the privileges. Next, the system executes a binary that processes the request using services provided by a kernel of the operating system. |
| US08621644B2 |
System and method for protecting data stored on a removable data storage device
A system for protecting data stored in a memory of a removable data storage device is provided. The system includes a personal electronic device, a removable solid state data storage device operatively coupled to the personal electronic device, and a circuit configured to protect data stored in a memory of the data storage device in response to detecting impending removal of the data storage device from the personal electronic device. |
| US08621642B2 |
Method and apparatus for an end user identity protection suite
A method comprising an indicator showing an overall security status of a user. |
| US08621635B2 |
Web page privacy risk detection
Various embodiments enable detection of third party content sources that may pose a privacy risk to a user. In at least some embodiments, webpages navigated to via a browser can be processed to identify third party content sources that provide content for the webpages. Data may be stored to relate the third party content sources to webpages in which the third party content is encountered. The data may then be analyzed to determine when a particular third party is in a position to observe browsing habits of a user. Responsive to determining a privacy risk, notification may be output in a variety of ways to inform a user of potentially risky content. In at least some other embodiments, notification can be made by way of a user interface instrumentality that is automatically presented to a user to inform the user of a potentially risky third party content source. |
| US08621634B2 |
Malware detection based on a predetermined criterion
A computer-implemented method of scanning a plurality of files stored in a memory of a computer for malware. The computer includes a processor. The method includes, for each respective file of said plurality of files in said memory determining, using said processor, whether a relationship between the respective file and stored data satisfies a predetermined criterion. The stored data indicates one or more files determined not to contain malware and for which data associated with each of said one or more files has a predetermined characteristic. If the relationship satisfies the predetermined criterion, the respective file is processed according to said first processing method and if said relationship does not satisfy said predetermined criterion, the respective file is processed according to said second processing method. |
| US08621630B2 |
System, method and device for cloud-based content inspection for mobile devices
A content inspection system provides cloud-based content inspection for mobile devices. The content inspection system includes a content inspection server for receiving a request providing a digital fingerprint of content for evaluation for threats and a data reputation services server for maintaining a threat database. The content inspection system communicates with the mobile device using a service oriented architecture web services based on exchanges of messages between agents of the content inspection system and the mobile device. The content inspection server authenticates the received request belongs to a subscriber, and once the request is authenticated, the data reputation services server operates on the request to determine whether content identified by the digital fingerprint matches pre-existing claims in the threat database. The content inspection system generates a threat evaluation response for the mobile device based on reviewing the threat database for pre-existing claims. |
| US08621629B2 |
System, method, and computer software code for detecting a computer network intrusion in an infrastructure element of a high value target
An intrusion detection system for detecting and defeating unauthorized intrusion within a computer network of an infrastructure element of a high value target, the system including a pre-processor configured to receive data from a computer network of an infrastructure element of a high value target and to output filtered data, a grammar applicator configured to apply grammars produced using a grammar based compression and learning algorithm to the filtered data, a decision making device configured to provide a recommendation based on an input from the grammar applicator as to whether the data in the computer network constitutes an unauthorized intrusion, and an emulator in communication with the decision making device configured to expand a sampling of the filtered data using a polymorphic transformation to allow the decision making device to further analyze the sampled data to determine an unauthorized intrusion. A method and a computer software code are also disclosed. |
| US08621628B2 |
Protecting user mode processes from improper tampering or termination
In one embodiment, a malware protection system may protect a computing system from a malware event. A data storage device 150 may store a watchdog filter driver 240 integrated with an operating system kernel 210. A processor 120 may intercept a process access to an application process 220 with the watchdog filter driver 240 to detect a malware event. The processor 120 may use the watchdog filter driver 240 to determine an originating process for the malware event. |
| US08621627B1 |
Intrusion detection and prevention processing within network interface circuitry
A network interface controller (NIC) is configured to couple a host to a network. The NIC coupled to the host via a host bus, and the host is configured to operate a plurality of virtual machines. The NIC is configured to receive at least one data frame, the at least one data frame including at least a source network address and indication of at least one destination network address; determine if the received data frame is a frame on which additional processing should occur; based on a result of the determining step, cause the frame to be provided to the host, via the host bus, for the host to perform the additional processing; and receive, via the host bus, the frame on which additional processing has been performed and steer the frame to a destination based on the at least one destination address. |
| US08621626B2 |
Detection of code execution exploits
Various embodiments include a method of detecting shell code in an arbitrary file comprising determining where one or more candidate areas exist within an arbitrary file, searching at least one nearby area surrounding each of the one or more candidate areas within the arbitrary file for an instruction candidate, and calculating for any such instruction candidate a statistical probability based on a disassembly of instructions starting at a found offset for the instruction candidate that the disassembled instructions are shellcode. |
| US08621620B2 |
System and method for protecting and securing storage devices using below-operating system trapping
In one embodiment, a system for securing a storage device includes an electronic device comprising a processor, a storage device communicatively coupled to the processor, and a security agent. The security agent is configured to execute at a level below all of the operating systems of the electronic device, intercept a request to access the storage device, identify a requesting entity responsible for initiating the request, and utilize one or more security rules to determine if the request from the requesting entity is authorized. In some embodiments, the security agent is configured to determine whether the request involves a protected area of the storage device. If the request involves a protected area of the storage device, the security agent may be configured to allow the request if the requesting entity is authorized to access the protected area of the storage device. |
| US08621619B2 |
Dynamic code insertion for static analysis based sandboxes
Methods and apparatus for dynamically adding and deleting new code to previously validated application executing in a secured runtime. New code is written to a portion of secured memory not executable by application. New code is validated to ensure it cannot directly call operating system, address memory outside of secured memory, or modify secured memory state. Indirect branch instructions may only target addresses aligned on fixed size boundaries within the secured memory. Validated code is copied to portion of secured memory executable by application in two stage process that ensures partially copied segments cannot be executed. Validated new code can be deleted once all threads reach safe execution point, provided code was previously inserted as unit or contains no internal targets that can be called by code not also being deleted. |