| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08633424B2 |
Disengaging pressurizer blower in max heat setting to improve cabin heating
An HVAC system for a work vehicle having an operator compartment for a vehicle operator, the system including a heating system, a compartment pressurizer blower, a compartment recirculation blower, a temperature sensor, and an operating mode switch, each operably coupled to an electronic circuit, wherein the circuit is configured to reduce pressurizer blower output when the operator selects high output from the heating system under certain predetermined temperature and conditions and operating modes to improve HVAC system performance. |
| US08633422B2 |
Welding gun having non-threading contact tip
A welding gun adapted to secure a contact tip within the welding gun without threading the contact tip and without the use of tools. The contact tip may be adapted to abut a surface of a first member disposed within the welding gun. The surface may be a surface of a gas diffuser. The surface may be adapted to abut the contact tip. The contact tip also may be adapted for abutment with a second member to urge the contact tip toward the first member. The second member may be a portion of a nozzle adapted to abut the contact tip to urge the contact tip toward the surface of the first member. A method of assembling a welding gun also is provided. The method may include disposing a contact tip between a first and a second member and capturing the contact tip between the first and second members. |
| US08633421B2 |
Laser processing apparatus and method
A laser processing apparatus includes a stage unit moving a substrate having a plurality of work sections along longitudinal and lateral axes and rotating the substrate at a predetermined angle about a rotational axis, a laser beam oscillating unit oscillating laser beams to process holes in the substrate, a camera unit taking and providing an image of each of the work sections, and a controller correcting a processing location data using the image taken by the camera unit to allow the laser oscillating unit and the scanner unit to accurately process the holes in the substrate. |
| US08633420B2 |
Laser machining systems and methods with debris extraction
Laser machining systems and methods may include debris removal systems to remove debris generated by the machining process and/or outgassing or filtration systems to remove harmful gases and filter and recycle air within the system. The laser machining systems and methods may be used to scribe one or more lines in large flat workpieces such as solar panels. In particular, laser machining systems and methods may be used to scribe lines in thin film photovoltaic (PV) solar panels with accuracy, high speed and reduced cost. |
| US08633418B2 |
Spark plug manufacturing method
There is provided manufacturing method of a spark plug that includes a center electrode and a ground electrode with a discharge gap left therebetween. At least one of the center electrode and the ground electrode has an electrode body containing a base metal and a noble metal tip welded to the electrode body. The spark plug manufacturing method includes a laser welding step for welding the noble metal tip and the electrode body by placing the noble metal tip at a given position on the electrode body, irradiating a pulsed laser onto the noble metal tip and the electrode body and thereby sequentially forming welding spots corresponding to pulses of the laser in a circumferential direction of the noble metal tip, wherein at least one of the laser pulses is an initially increasing type laser pulse having a laser intensity waveform in which a laser intensity increases with time during a predetermined initial period from a pulse start time. |
| US08633411B2 |
Side button structure for electronic device
A side button structure includes a housing with switches, and a button assembly moveably fixed on the housing; the button assembly includes a flexible pin and at least one pressing blocks, the flexible pin passing through the pressing blocks. Pressing the button assembly enables the flexible pin to deform, the button assembly to move to the housing, and the pressing blocks to attach to the switches. |
| US08633409B2 |
Waterproof structure of wire leading portion
There is provided a waterproof structure of a wire leading portion. A rubber cap is assembled with wire connected to a circuit board. A housing accommodates the circuit board. A packing holder is accommodated next to the circuit board through an opening of the housing. A packing is assembled on an outer periphery of the packing holder to be in close contact with an inner surface of the housing. The packing holder includes: a rubber cap secession prevention wall formed in a direction that crosses an accommodation direction; a wire insertion hole formed to penetrate the wall; and a rubber cap accommodation chamber communicating with the wire insertion hole and continuing to an inner surface of the wall. The inner surface of the wall and a cross-section of the circuit board are formed to hold the rubber cap that is accommodated in the rubber cap accommodation chamber. |
| US08633408B2 |
Miniature housing and support arrangement having at least one miniature housing
A miniature housing, in whose housing body there is located an element emitting or receiving electromagnetic radiation, comprises at least two electrical terminal means projecting laterally beyond the housing body. The passage side of the miniature housing, through which the element emits or receives, is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the mounting plane of the miniature housing. The electrical terminal means of the miniature housing projecting laterally beyond the housing body are connected electrically conductively to conductors, which bring about direct contacting with the emitting or receiving element. The contacting faces of the terminal means are thus arranged substantially perpendicular to the passage side of the miniature housing. As a result of this arrangement the miniature housing may be embedded at least in part in a support, such that the miniature housing is no longer of any significance to the thickness of a lighting device. |
| US08633407B2 |
Semiconductor device capable of switching operation modes
A semiconductor device includes a substrate, a first pad that is formed above the substrate, a second pad that is formed above the substrate, an external terminal that is connected with the second pad, and a circuit that judges whether or not the first pad is connected with the external terminal, wherein a distance between the first pad and a side of the substrate opposed to the external terminal is different from a distance between the second pad and the side. |
| US08633404B2 |
Gangable nail plate
A nail plate is attached to the outer surface of a wall stud to protect a utility from penetration by nails or other fasteners driven through a wall surface. The nail plate has a substantially rectangular shape with a width corresponding to the width of the stud. The nail plate has a first and second longitudinal ends with nail tabs for attaching the nail plate to the stud. The ends of the nail plate have at least one recess and at least one protruding portion where the protruding portion can mate with a recess of an adjacent nail plate is ganged together. The nail plates can have coupling members to couple a plurality of nail plates in series in an end to end fashion. The longitudinal ends of the nail plate enable the ends to abut each other with no open portions that can allow a fastener to pass though. In one embodiment the nail tabs extend in a longitudinal direction with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the nail plate. In another embodiment the nail tabs extend in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal dimension of the nail plate. |
| US08633395B2 |
Multilayer wiring board
A multilayer wiring board 100 comprises a first wiring region 101 where wirings 103a and insulating layers 104a and 104b are alternately laminated, and a second wiring region 102 where a thickness H2 of an insulating layer 104 is twice or more a thickness H1 of the insulating layer in the first wiring region 101 and a width W2 of a wiring 103b is twice or more a width W1 of the wiring in the first wiring region 101. The first wiring region 101 and the second wiring region 102 are integrally formed on the same board. |
| US08633394B2 |
Flexible printed circuit board
A FPCB includes a signal layer, a ground layer, and a dielectric layer lying between the signal layer and the ground layer. At least one high speed signal transmission line is formed on the signal layer. The ground layer has a copper-removed area corresponding to the transmission line. Two ground lines are symmetrically disposed at two opposite sides of the signal transmission line and substantially parallel to the signal transmission line, each ground line and the signal transmission line is spaced at a first predetermined distance. Each ground line and the signal transmission line are spaced at a first predetermined distance. |
| US08633392B2 |
Circuit board with high-density circuit patterns
A circuit board including: an insulator having a trench; a first circuit pattern formed to bury a portion of the trench; and a second circuit pattern formed on a surface of the insulator having the trench formed therein. |
| US08633388B2 |
Attaching structure of banding band
An attaching wall 82 is interposed between first and second walls 81a, 81b. A banding band 9 is inserted from a first gap 83a provided between the attaching wall 82 and the first wall 81a to a second gap 83b provided between the attaching wall 82 and the second wall 81b, there by the banding band 9 is attached to the attaching wall 82. A through-hole 8 is provided on the attaching wall 82. A first guide wall 85a inclined toward the attaching wall 82 as extended toward the second wall 81b is arranged at a position facing the through-hole 84. Further, a second guide wall 85b inclined toward the attaching wall 82 as extended toward the second wall 81b is arranged at a position facing the second gap 83b. |
| US08633387B2 |
Electrical line for motor vehicles
An electrical line (1) for motor vehicles is provided having at least two insulated electrical conductors (4, 5) which are combined to form one unit. The line is connected to a sensor (3)at one end. The conductors (4, 5) are surrounded by a prefabricated plastic tube (6). Parts (7), integrally belonging to the tube (6), are positioned on the outside along the course of the tube (6) as fastening devices for securing the line (1) at predefined fixed points of a motor vehicle. At those fixed points, fastening parts are present that are configured to connect with and that complement the parts (7) of the tube (6). |
| US08633386B2 |
Cable management device and server using same
A cable management device includes a shell, a driving assembly and a cover. The shell includes a first coil winder and a second coil winder. The driving assembly is slidably fixed to the shell, the driving assembly including a sliding rack and a rotating rack. The cover is releasably latched to the shell. The cable assembly includes a first end, a second end and a coil section. The first end is fixed to the driving assembly, the second end is fixed to the shell. The coil section is wound onto the first coil winder and the second coil winder. When the driving assembly is slid out of the shell, the driving assembly stretches the coil section, and the rotating rack rotates relative to the sliding rack, bending the cable assembly. |
| US08633381B2 |
Termination unit for multi-phase superconductor cable
A termination unit for a multi-phase superconductor cable has, for each phase, a cylindrical modular element (1, 2, 3) having a thermally insulating external envelope (1A, 2A, 3A) containing a superconductor cable portion (7, 8, 9) contained in an internal envelope (1B, 2B, 3B) containing a cooling fluid. A branch element (4, 5, 6) of each phase, provided with an electrical connection element (4A, 5A, 6A), is arranged at the end of each said modular element, where each branch element (4, 5, 6) is directly connected to the corresponding cable portion (7, 8, 9) and only the electrical connection element (4A, 5A, 6A) projecting from the modular elements (1, 2, 3). |
| US08633379B2 |
Solar cell
A solar cell is discussed. The solar cell includes a substrate having a first conductivity type and made of a crystalline semiconductor; an emitter region having a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type, and forming a p-n junction with the substrate; a surface field region having the first conductivity type and being separated from the emitter region; a first electrode connected to the emitter region; and a second electrode connected to the surface field region, wherein at least one of the emitter region and the surface field region includes a plurality of semiconductor portions, and at least one of the plurality of semiconductor portion is a crystalline semiconductor portion. |
| US08633365B2 |
Instrument and speaker lift stand
Improvements in a lifting stand are presented. The lift stand is for a musical instrument stand or to elevate a speaker and that rigidly supports a sousaphone brass type instruments or speaker in an in a stored and in a playable or elevated position. The stand supports all or the majority of the weight of the instrument or speaker in a static position to relieve the weight of the musical instrument or speaker. The stand has legs that are extendable to rest on multiple levels as might be found in a stadium. The stand further has a securing mechanism that gently grasps a tubular section to hold the musical instrument. The musical instrument stand is collapsible to fit within or can be carried with the case of the sousaphone or other brass instrument. The speaker stand can be easily collapsed for transportation and storage. |
| US08633360B1 |
Soybean variety XB49K12
A novel soybean variety, designated XB49K12 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB49K12, cells from soybean variety XB49K12, plants of soybean XB49K12, and plant parts of soybean variety XB49K12. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB49K12 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB49K12, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB49K12, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB49K12. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB49K12 are further provided. |
| US08633359B2 |
Soybean cultivar S100316
A soybean cultivar designated S100316 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S100316, to the plants of soybean cultivar S100316, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S100316, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S100316. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100316. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100316, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S100316 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08633358B2 |
Lettuce line RS16893282
The invention provides seed and plants of the lettuce line designated RS16893282. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of lettuce line RS16893282, and to methods for producing a lettuce plant produced by crossing a plant of lettuce line RS16893282 with itself or with another lettuce plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of lettuce line RS16893282, including the gametes of such plants. |
| US08633357B2 |
Lettuce line RX 06460500
The invention provides seed and plants of the lettuce line designated RX 06460500. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of lettuce line RX 06460500, and to methods for producing a lettuce plant produced by crossing a plant of lettuce line RX 06460500 with itself or with another lettuce plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of lettuce line RX 06460500, including the gametes of such plants. |
| US08633345B2 |
Process for preparing isobutene by cleaving MTBE-containing mixtures
A process for preparing isobutene including cleaving a mixture obtained from an MTBE-containing feedstock and/or an MTBE-containing stream, affording a stream of reaction products consisting of isobutene, methanol, MTBE and by-products, the latter consisting of a1) high boilers having a boiling range above 55° C. at a pressure of 0.1 MPa; a2) medium boilers having a boiling range of 12 to 55° C. at a pressure of 0.1 MPa; and a3) low boilers having a boiling range below 12° C. at a pressure of 0.1 MPa; distillatively separating into a stream which contains the isobutene product and low boilers, and a stream which contains MTBE, methanol, medium boilers and high boilers; distillatively separating to obtain an MTBE-containing stream and a methanol-containing high boiler stream; recycling an MTBE-containing stream in which the medium boilers being removed completely or partially before recycling. |
| US08633338B2 |
Production of myrtanal from beta-pinene epoxide
The present invention refers to a process for the production of myrtanal from β-pinene epoxide that comprises at least of putting this epoxide in contact with a microporous and crystalline catalyst with pores of a diameter of at least 0.52 nm with an empirical formula for the calcinated and dehydrated form of Hw(MwTixSnyZrzSi1-w-x-y-z)O2 where M is at least a metal with valence+3 selected from Al, B, Ga, Fe, Cr and combinations of these; w is a molar fraction of M with a value of between 0 and 2(x+y+z); x is a molar fraction of titanium and has a value of between 0 and 0.06; y is a molar fraction of tin and has a value of between 0 and 0.06; z is a molar fraction of zirconium and has a value of between 0 and 0.06; and where at least one of the three values “x”, “y” or “z” is different from zero. In the present invention, the microporous and crystalline catalyst preferably has pores of at least 0.52 nm and has a crystalline structure with an X-ray diffractogram of a zeolite beta. |
| US08633337B2 |
Method and synthesis
The present invention provides a method for the preparation of a radiolabeled guanidine derivative, in particular wherein the radiolabeled guanidine derivative is a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer. Certain intermediates useful in said method are also provided, as well as means for carrying out said method in an automated fashion. The method of the invention provides advantages over known methods for the preparation of radiolabeled guanidine derivatives. |
| US08633334B2 |
Method for preparing trifluoromethanesulphinic acid
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a highly pure trifluoromethanesulphinic acid. The method of the invention for preparing a highly pure trifluoromethanesulphinic acid, starting from an aqueous mixture comprising a trifluoromethanesulphinic acid salt, a trifluoroacetic acid salt and saline impurities resulting from the method for preparing same, is characterized in that said mixture is subjected to the following operations: —acidification such that the trifluoroacetic acid salt and the triflinic acid salt are released in an acid form, —separation of the trifluoroacetic acid and trifluoromethanesulphinic acid by distillation enabling the trifluoroacetic acid to be recovered at the top of the distillation and the trifluoromethanesulphinic acid to be recovered at the bottom of the distillation, —separation by distillation of the trifluoromethanesulphinic acid present in the distillation residue previously obtained. |
| US08633328B2 |
Method of making fluorinated alkoxy carboxylic acids and precursors thereof
Provided are saturated partially fluorinated alkoxy carboxylic acids or salts thereof and methods of preparation. |
| US08633327B2 |
Process for preparing divinylarene dioxides
A process for preparing a divinylarene dioxide including reacting (a) at least one divinylarene; and (b) at least one peracid oxidant compound, under conditions to form a divinylarene dioxide product; wherein the peracid oxidant compound is capable of providing an increased yield of a divinylarene dioxide product. |
| US08633326B2 |
Method for preparing taxane derivatives
Provided is a method for preparing a taxane derivative, comprising: carrying out condensation of a phenylisoserine derivatives having a protective group introduced thereto or a mixture of isomers thereof, as a side chain, with a baccatin III derivative or 10-deacetyl-baccatin III derivative to obtain a mixture of isomers; separating the isomers via chromatography; and carrying out a reversion of the stereochemical structure of a selectively separated isomer, which is suitable for producing a taxane derivative in a large scale with high yield. |
| US08633325B2 |
Method for making insect repellent composition
Dihydronepetalactone, a minor natural constituent of the essential oil of catmints (Nepeta spp.) such as Nepeta cataria, has been identified as an effective insect repellent compound. Synthesis of dihydronepetalactone may be achieved by hydrogenation of nepetalactone, the major constituent of catmint essential oils. This compound, which also has fragrance properties, may be used commercially for its insect repellent properties, and methods for making an composition thereof are disclosed. |
| US08633324B2 |
Denibulin di-hydrochloride
MN-029 di-hydrochloride (MN-029.2HCl, Formula 2) is a potent vascular targeting agent. The present invention focuses on the synthesis and characterization of the di-hydrochloride salt MN-029 and the preparation of pharmaceutically acceptable formulations thereof. Methods are disclosed of using the compound and formulations thereof in the treatment of diseases that rely on the generation of neovasculature by angiogenesis for disease progression. |
| US08633323B2 |
Process for preparing bis(thiohydrazide amides)
Disclosed herein are methods of preparing a bis(thio-hydrazide amides) compounds of the following structural formula: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and R13 are defined herein. |
| US08633322B2 |
Alkynyl derivatives useful as DPP-1 inhibitors
The present invention is directed to novel alkynyl derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in the treatment of disorders and conditions modulated by DPP-1. |
| US08633316B2 |
Producing method of nitrogen containing condensed heterocyclic compound
Provided is a method for producing a nitrogen-containing condensed heterocyclic compound containing the step of: reacting a compound represented by Formula (1a) or Formula (1b) with a compound represented by Formula (2) under existence of cupper or a cupper ion, and a ligand to produce a nitrogen-containing condensed heterocyclic compound represented by Formula (3a) or Formula (3b): |
| US08633312B2 |
Dibenzocycloheptatone derivatives and pharmaceutical agents containing said compounds
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula I wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, X and Y have the meanings given in the description. The compounds have an action which is immunomodulating and inhibits or regulates the release of IL-1β and/or TNF-α. They can therefore be used for treatment of diseases connected with a disturbance in the immune system. |
| US08633308B2 |
Compounds for preventing or treating viral infections and methods of use thereof
Described herein are compounds and methods that prevent the viral infection of cells. The compounds and methods described herein minimize viral resistance and maximize the number of targeted viruses. Additionally, the compounds and methods minimize the toxicity toward uninfected cells. |
| US08633293B2 |
Self-repairing polymer
A polymer includes a reaction product of an epoxy resin, a first crosslinking agent, and a second crosslinking agent. The first crosslinking agent is reactive with the epoxy resin and has a first molecular weight. The second crosslinking agent is reactive with the epoxy resin and has a second molecular weight of at least 2.5 times greater than the first molecular weight. The polymer has a first phase having a first glass transition temperature at which the polymer is transformable between a first shape and a second shape. The second crosslinking agent is crystallizable within the polymer and thereby has a melting temperature that is detectable within the polymer. |
| US08633292B2 |
Polyurethane-based photochromic optical materials
A photochromic composition for making optical materials comprising a polyurethane prepolymer formed by combining an isocyanate and a compound having an active hydrogen containing group, a polysilsequioxane and a photochromic compound. The photochromic composition may also include a monomer that has both an active hydrogen containing group and an unsaturated group. The polysilsesquioxane is incorporated as a copolymer and/or as a polysilsequioxane-chemically modified polyurethane. |
| US08633290B2 |
Optical resin, optical resin composition, optical film, and film
An optical resin comprises a copolymer of 4-methyl-1-pentene and at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-1-pentene, 3-methyl-1-butene and 4,4-dimethyl-1-pentene. The content of a constituent unit (a) derived from 4-methyl-1-pentene is equal to or more than 60 mol % and equal to or less than 99 mol %, and the total content of a constituent unit (b) derived from at least one monomer selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-1-pentene, 3-methyl-1-butene and 4,4-dimethyl-1-pentene is equal to or more than 1 mol % and equal to or less than 40 mol %. |
| US08633288B2 |
Fluorinated ether compounds and methods of using the same
Compounds represented by formula (Rf-Q-X)s—Z. Each Rf is independently a partially fluorinated or fully fluorinated group selected from Rfa-(O)r—CHF—(CF2)n—; [Rfb-(O)tC(L)H—CF2—O]m—W—; CF3CFH—O—(CF2)p—; CF3—(O—CF2)z—; and CF3—O—(CF2)3—O—CF2—. Methods of reducing surface tension of a liquid, making foams, and treating a surface using the compounds are also disclosed. |
| US08633287B2 |
Olefin polymerization process
A polymerization process for copolymerizing ethylene and a series of α-olefins to form a branched polyethylene, in which the series of α-olefins is generated in-situ by an ethylene oligomerization catalyst, is improved if the oligomerization catalyst has a Schulz-Flory constant of about 0.30 to about 0.55. This makes very little higher molecular weight α-olefins, which allows for easy removal of unpolymerized α-olefins from the polyolefin product. |
| US08633283B2 |
Process for producing blends made of polylactides (PLAS) and of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUS)
Blends made of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) and of polylactides (PLAs) are produced via A) reaction of at least one thermoplastic polyurethane with at least one diisocyanate or one diisocyanate prepolymer which has at least two isocyanate groups, or a mixture thereof, in the melt, with reduction of the molar mass of the thermoplastic polyurethane and with formation of a thermoplastic polyurethane having an excess of isocyanate end groups, B) introduction of at least one polylactide into the melt of the stage A) product, and reaction of the stage A) product with the polylactide at a temperature below 190° C., C) cooling of the resultant blend, where no polyols are used in stages A) to C). |
| US08633280B2 |
Methods of modifying polymers with highly active and selective metathesis catalysts
The present invention provides methods of depolymerizing and hydrogenating polymers using a transition metal catalyst represented by formula Ia or Ib: where the structural variables are defined herein. |
| US08633278B2 |
Bimolecular inverse emulsion polymer
The invention relates to novel, stable bi-molecular cationic inverse emulsion polymers (W/O) with both different molecular weights and cationic activities that are assembled via an “in situ” emulsion polymerization of a high molecular weight cationic polymer in the presence of a low molecular weight polymer in the aqueous phase. The low molecular cationic polymer is produced in a pre-polymerization in solution. The novel, stable cationic water-in-oil emulsion is easy invertible and useful as flocculant, dewatering aid and retention aid in papermaking. |
| US08633277B2 |
Methods for forming polymer-drug conjugates
Methods for preparing polymer-drug conjugates are provided. The disclosed methods involve polymeric reagents comprising a moiety of atoms arranged in a specific order, wherein the moiety is positioned between a water-soluble polymer and a reactive group. Related methods, compositions, preparations, and so forth are also provided. |
| US08633271B2 |
Plastic part, specifically a cage for a bearing, consisting of a radiation-crosslinkable plastic material, and method for the production thereof
A plastic part, especially a bearing part, specifically a cage for receiving rolling bodies of a bearing. The body of the plastic part is essentially made of a radiation-crosslinkable plastic material. Pigments that undergo a visible change during the irradiation are mixed in with the plastic material. Also, a method is disclosed for producing a plastic part, especially a bearing part, specifically a cage for receiving rolling bodies of a bearing the plastic part that has a body made of a radiation-crosslinkable plastic material. |
| US08633268B2 |
Synthetic polyisoprene foley catheter
An indwelling urinary drainage catheter (12, 110) includes synthetic polyisoprene rubber (SPIR). Advantageously, the SPIR catheter can meet the tensile and resiliency requirements of Foley applications while avoiding the risk of allergic reactions in sensitive patients. The SPIR comprises an accelerator system that uses a carbamate as the only accelerator, a guanidine as the only accelerator, a combination of guanidine and carbamate accelerators, a combination of carbamate and thiazole accelerators, or a combination of guanidine, carbamate and thiazole accelerators. |
| US08633265B2 |
UV stabilization of isosorbide polycarbonates
Provided herein are polymeric compositions that are suitable protected from UV-induced discoloration and degradation. Such resins comprise an isosorbide polymer and one or more hindered amines. These resin compositions are useful in the manufacture of various shaped, formed and/or molded articles. |
| US08633260B2 |
Polymer compound comprising dye and curable resin composition comprising same
The present invention relates to a polymer compound including a dye, and a curable resin composition including the same. The polymer compound including the dye according to the present invention may exhibit characteristics such as excellent heat resistance, solubility, coating uniformity, chemical resistance and the like by introducing a single molecule type dye into a side chain of a polymer binder to be modified into a polymer form and applying the modified polymer to a curable composition. |
| US08633256B2 |
Control of the melt flow rate of polyolefin mixtures recovered from post-consumer durable goods
A process for creating polyolefin blends from waste streams with controlled rheological properties can include processing a waste stream to make a mixture comprising a mixture comprising polypropylene and polyethylene and compounding the mixture with one or more peroxides or nitroxides to produce a polyolefin blend. For example, a process can include: determining the required melt flow rate of the end product; determining the ratio of polyethylene to polypropylene to achieve the required melt flow rate; effecting a separation of polypropylene from polyethylene to achieve the desired composition; determining the amount of peroxide or peroxide concentrate required to increase the melt flow rate to the required level; melt compounding the mixture; evaluating the melt flow rate of the product; and adjusting the composition of polyethyelene and polypropylene or the amount of peroxide added if necessary to achieve the required melt flow rate. |
| US08633248B2 |
Parenteral selenomethionine for production of selenium-rich foods
A formulation for parenteral administration which includes selenomethionine and at least one oil-based vehicle. The formulation is used for elevating the selenium levels in the blood, milk and/or meat of an animal. These products (i.e. milk and meat) and the formulation itself are used to meet the selenium nutritional requirement for growth and health in a selenium deficient animal. |
| US08633247B2 |
Method for decreasing cartilage damage in dogs
A method for modulating enzymatic degradation of articular cartilage in a dog comprises administering to the dog an enzymatic degradation modulating effective amount of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), for example as a component of a food composition. By practice of the method in a dog having arthritis, mobility of the dog can be increased, weight bearing in an arthritic limb can be increased, and/or pain associated with arthritis can be reduced. |
| US08633246B2 |
Omega-3 fatty acids for osteoarthritis
Methods for restoring a more nearly normal joint function in an osteoarthritic dog and methods for decreasing the likelihood of a dog developing osteoarthritis involve administering to the dogs a composition containing an effective concentration of the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). |
| US08633244B2 |
Cosmetic compositions comprising esters based on 2-propylheptanol
The invention relates to the use of esters of 2-propylheptanol with benzoic acid and/or benzoic acid derivatives in cosmetic and/or pharmaceutical preparations. The compounds are distinguished by their particularly light sensory impression. |
| US08633243B2 |
Forms of CDDO methyl ester
A triterpenoid compound, methyl 2-cyano-3,12-dioxoleana-1,9(11)-dien-28-oate (CDDO methyl ester), has a non-crystalline, glassy solid form and a non-hydrous crystalline form that can prepared, for example, from a saturated methanol solution. The glassy form displays an enhanced bioavailability over the non-hydrous crystalline form. Each form of CDDO methyl ester is a superior candidate for use, typically in solid dosage form, for treating a variety of disease states, generally associated with inflammation. |
| US08633242B2 |
Benzylidene indanones and processes for preparation and use thereof
The present invention relates to benzylidene indanones of general formula 1. The compounds exhibited tubulin polymerisation inhibition. A series of compounds 2-benzylidene 3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) indanones having general formula 1 were synthesized from gallic acid through a chemical process. 2-(3,4-Methylenedioxybenzylidine), 3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl), 4,5,6-trimethoxyindanone (8), a representative compound of this series possessing the molecular formula C29H28O9, was synthesized from gallic acid and exhibits potent anticancer activity. Compound 8 was evaluated for acute oral activity in Swiss albino mice and found to be safe up to 300 mg/kg body weight. The anticancer activity of the compounds has been determined, in order to obtain new potent and cost effective molecules using an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. |
| US08633240B2 |
Paclitaxel trihydrates and methods of making thereof
Novel paclitaxel trihydrates. The paclitaxel trihydrates described herein are obtained by recrystallizing paclitaxel from a water/alcohol solution. Such recrystallization is known in the art to yield the one previously known paclitaxel crystalline trihydrate polymorph. Formation of the novel paclitaxel trihydrates described herein is induced by subjecting paclitaxel trihydrate crystals to an elevated pressure. As evidenced by NMR spectra, the novel paclitaxel trihydrates described herein have three-dimensional structures and/or water coordination geometry structures that are distinct from any previously known paclitaxel trihydrate. |
| US08633239B2 |
Process for the preparation of eletriptan
The present invention relates to a novel process for the preparation of (R)-3-((1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)methyl)-5-(2-(phenylsulfonyl)ethyl)-1H-indole and its intermediates thereof. |
| US08633236B2 |
Compounds, compositions and methods
Compounds useful for treating cellular proliferative diseases and disorders by modulating the activity of KSP are disclosed. |
| US08633235B2 |
Benzimidazole derivatives, compositions containing them, preparation thereof and uses thereof
Compounds of Formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 are as defined in the specification as well as salts and pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds are prepared. They are useful in therapy, in particular in the management of pain. |
| US08633233B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating anxiety
Methods of treating a TRPC5 mediated disorder in a subject by administering an effective amount of a TRPC5 antagonist, such as a compound disclosed herein, are described. |
| US08633232B2 |
Compounds, compositions and methods of using same for modulating uric acid levels
Described herein are compounds useful in the modulation of blood uric acid levels, formulations containing them and methods of making and using them. In some embodiments, the compounds described herein are used in the treatment or prevention of disorders related to aberrant levels of uric acid. |
| US08633230B2 |
Viral hepatitis treatment
The present disclosure relates to methods for treating viral hepatitis, compounds useful in the treatment of viral hepatitis, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. In one embodiment, pharmaceutical compositions comprising nitazoxanide, tizoxanide, or derivatives and/or mixtures thereof are provided, as well as methods of treating hepatitis C using such compositions. |
| US08633227B2 |
Synthesis and novel salt forms of (R)-3-((E)-pyrrolidin-3-yl)vinyl)-5-tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy)pyridine
The present invention relates to (R)-3-((E)-2-(pyrrolidin-3-yl)vinyl)-5-(tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy)pyridine, its salt forms, and to processes for the commercial-scale production of these compounds in sufficient purity and quality for use in pharmaceutical compositions. |
| US08633224B2 |
Hemiasterlin derivatives and uses thereof in the treatment of cancer
The present invention provides compounds having formula (I): and additionally provides methods for the synthesis thereof and methods for the use thereof in the treatment of cancer, wherein R1-R7, X1, X2, R, Q, and n are as defined herein. |
| US08633223B2 |
Process for preparation of 2-methyl-2′-phenylpropionic acid derivatives and novel intermediate compounds
The present invention relates to a process for preparing 2-methyl-2′-phenylpropionic acid derivatives showing antihistamine activity in more simplified way, intermediate compounds and their preparation processes used therefor. According to the present invention, pharmaceutically useful 2-methyl-2′-phenylpropionic acid derivatives can be prepared with high yield and purity on industrial scale. |
| US08633221B2 |
Method of enhancing lysosomal α-galactosidase A
A method of enhancing the activity of lysosomal α-Galactosidase A (α-Gal A) in mammalian cells and for treatment of Fabry disease by administration of 1-deoxy-galactonojirimycin and related compounds. |
| US08633220B2 |
Therapeutic agents for ocular hypertension
This invention provides well defined 6-alkyl or hydroxyalkyl-1-naphthamide or quinoline compounds for treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension. |
| US08633212B2 |
Inhibitors of beta-secretase
The present invention is directed to a compound represented by the following structural formula or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Pharmaceutical compositions and method of use of the compounds are also described. |
| US08633208B2 |
6-1H-imidazo-quinazoline and quinolines derivatives, new MAO inhibitors and imidazoline receptor ligands
The present invention is directed to 6-(1H-imidazo-1-yl)-2-aryl and 2-heteroaryl quinazoline and quinolines derivatives, compounds of formula (I), their pharmaceutical acceptable salts and solvates and corresponding pharmaceutical compositions, that acts as Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) inhibitors and Imidazoline Receptor ligands: wherein: X is independently selected from —CH group or a nitrogen atom (—N), W is independently selected from an aryl group, an heteroaryl group, or a benzocondensed heteroaryl group such as 1,3-benzodioxole, benzofuran, 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran, benzothiophene, 2,3-dihydrobenzothiophene, indole, 2,3-dihydroindole, benzimidazole, benzoxazole, benzothiazole, 2H-3,4-dihydrobenzopyran, [1,4]-benzodioxine, 2,3-dihydro-[1,4]-benzodioxine (1,4-benzodioxan). R1 is independently selected from hydrogen (—H), C1-C4 alkyl, hydroxymethyl (—CH2OH), aminomethyl (—CH2NH2), alkylaminomethyl [CH2NH(R2)], or di-alkylaminomethyl [CH2N(R2)2], trifluoromethyl (—CF3). Compounds of formula (I) elicited a pharmacological profile suitable for the clinical treatment of depression and related disorders, Parkinson disease, drug abuse, and morphine tolerance and dependence. |
| US08633203B2 |
Use of pterocarpans as active anti-cellulite ingredients
The invention relates to a cosmetic, dermatological or pharmaceutical preparation, containing one, two or more compounds of formula (I) and/or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a compound of this type, (i) for use in a method for preventing, treating or reducing cellulite, and/or (ii) in an adequate quantity to reduce the lipid quantity contained in subcutaneous fat tissue, and/or to inhibit the differentiation of preadipocytes, and/or to inhibit the lipogenesis in adipocytes, wherein the radicals R1 to R8, independently of one another, signify hydrogen, hydroxy or C1-C4-alkoxy, and/or two adjacent radicals together form a methylenedioxy group. |
| US08633202B2 |
Crystalline levofolinic acid and process for its preparation
The present invention relates to stable crystalline (6S)—N(5)-formyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolic acid, commonly referred to as levofolinic acid, in essentially pure 6S diastereomeric form, and to a process for its preparation. |
| US08633199B2 |
Medicine consisting of concomitant use or combination of DPP-IV inhibitor and other diabetic medicine
The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medicine which is excellent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, diabetic complications or impaired glucose tolerance. The present invention provides a medicine characterized in that a compound represented by the following general formula (I), a salt thereof, or a solvate thereof, and at least one kind of other diabetic medicine: (wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each a hydrogen atom, a trifluoromethyl group or a C1-3 alkyl group). |
| US08633196B2 |
Benzenesulfonamide compounds, method for synthesizing same, and use thereof in medicine as well as in cosmetics
Benzenesulfonamide compounds having a structure of formula (I) are described. Also described, are methods for synthesizing the compounds and to the use thereof in pharmaceutical compositions for human or veterinary medicine and in cosmetic compositions. |
| US08633192B2 |
Compositions and uses thereof
Compositions and their use in the treatment or prevention of hyperglycemia and related diseases or disorders are disclosed. |
| US08633190B2 |
Spirolactam derivatives and uses of same
The present invention provides spirolactam derivatives of formula (I): wherein R1-R7 are as defined herein; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and pharmaceutical compositions and uses of the same. |
| US08633189B2 |
Modulators of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator
The present invention relates to modulators of ATP-Binding Cassette (“ABC”) transporters or fragments thereof, including Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator, compositions thereof, and methods therewith. The present invention also relates to methods of treating diseases using such CFTR modulators. |
| US08633187B2 |
Quinoline derivatives as PI3 kinase inhibitors
Invented is a method of inhibiting the activity/function of PI3 kinases using quinoline derivatives. Also invented is a method of treating one or more disease states selected from: autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, allergy, asthma, pancreatitis, multiorgan failure, kidney diseases, platelet aggregation, cancer, sperm motility, transplantation rejection, graft rejection and lung injuries by the administration of quinoline derivatives. |
| US08633185B2 |
Pyrrolobenzodiazepines
Compounds of the formula I: or solvate thereof, wherein: R2 is an optionally substituted C5-20 aryl group; R6 and R9 are independently selected from H, R, OH, OR, SH, SR, NH2, NHR, NRR′, nitro, Me3Sn and halo; where R and R′ are independently selected from optionally substituted C1-12 alkyl, C3-20 heterocyclyl and C5-20 aryl groups; R7 is selected from H, R, OH, OR, SH, SR, NH2, NHR, NHRR′, nitro, Me3Sn and halo; R″ is a C3-12 alkylene group, which chain may be interrupted by one or more heteroatoms and/or aromatic rings; X is selected from O, S, or NH; z is 2 or 3; M is a monovalent pharmaceutically acceptable cation; R2′, R6′, R7′, R9′, X′ and M′ are selected from the same groups as R2, R6, R7, R9, X and M respectively, or M and M′ may together represent a divalent pharmaceutically acceptable cation. |
| US08633181B2 |
Treatment of cutaneous hemangioma
This invention concerns a method of treating hemangiomas with a beta blocker by applying the beta blocker onto the hemangiomas directly. The invention also concerns a combination therapy by using a beta blocker along with a corticosteroid or an alpha adrenergic receptor agonist for the treatment of hemangiomas. |
| US08633178B2 |
Natural combination hormone replacement formulations and therapies
Estrogen and progesterone replacement therapies are provided herein. Among others, the following formulations are provided herein: solubilized estradiol without progesterone; micronized progesterone without estradiol; micronized progesterone with partially solubilized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone; solubilized estradiol with micronized progesterone in combination with partially solubilized progesterone; and solubilized estradiol with solubilized progesterone. |
| US08633177B2 |
Nitroxyl (HNO) releasing compounds and uses thereof in treating diseases
Disclosed is a compound of the formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: (I) in which R1, R2, R3, and R4 are defined herein and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Further provided is a method of treating various disorders, such as a disorder selected from the group consisting of a cardiovascular disorder, cancer, chronic pain, alcohol dependence, and inflammation in a patient comprising administering an effective amount of a compound or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of formula (I). |
| US08633174B2 |
Compounds for use in the treatment of cancer
Pharmaceutical compositions comprise a first compound of Formula I or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, and a cyto-protective amount of a manganese chelate of N,N′-dipyridoxyl ethylenediamine-N,N′-diacetic acid (MnPLED): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and X are defined in the specification. |
| US08633173B2 |
Preparation and uses of 1,2,4-triazolo [1,5a] pyridine derivatives
This application relates, in part, to compounds of the general Formula I and/or salts thereof, wherein X, R1A, R1B, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as defined herein. The application also relates to compositions and methods of inhibiting at least JAK2 in subjects in recognized need thereof for the treatment of diseases or disorders for which inhibition of at least JAK2 is indicated. |
| US08633172B2 |
Cyclodextrin nanotechnology for ophthalmic drug delivery
The invention provides an ophthalmic composition which is an aqueous suspension comprising drug, cyclodextrin and water, the composition having an aqueous phase of from about 0.1% (w/v) to about 90% (w/v) of the drug in solution, as dissolved free drug and as dissolved drug/cyclodextrin complex(es), and a solid phase of from about 10% (w/v) to about 99.9% (w/v) of the drug as solid drug/cyclodextrin particles, suspended in the aqueous phase; the size of the solid particles being from about 10 nm to about 1 mm, the drug/cyclodextrin particles being capable of dissolving in aqueous tear fluid within 24 hours of application to the eye surface. The aqueous eye suspension can be in the form of eye drops, eye gel or eye mist. Further, the invention provides a method for treating a condition of the posterior segment and/or anterior segment of the eye comprising applying to the eye surface, in an amount which delivers to said segment or segments a therapeutically effective amount of a drug suitable for treating said condition, an ophthalmic composition which is as defined above. Nasal compositions and methods and ophthalmic and nasal compositions in powder form are also provided. |
| US08633170B2 |
Therapy-enhancing glucan
This invention provides a composition comprising an effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of antibodies. This invention further provides the above compositions and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. This invention also provides a method for treating a subject with cancer comprising administrating the above-described composition to the subject. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of vaccines. This invention also provides a method of treating a subject comprising administrating the above pharmaceutical composition to the subject. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing efficacy of natural antibodies. This invention provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing host immunity. This invention also provides a composition comprising effective amount of glucan capable of enhancing the action of an agent in preventing tissue rejection. |
| US08633169B2 |
Antiviral topical formulations in the form of a bio-adhesive gel
The invention relates to topical formulations in the form of a bioadhesive hydrophilic gel comprising acyclovir as active ingredient, Sodium hyaluronate and an acrylic polymer. Said formulations improve the local administration of acyclovir in the treatment of herpes infections, because they possess good properties of adherence to the mucosa and high resistance to physiological removal mechanisms. |
| US08633167B2 |
Method for the protection of trees
The present invention provides a method for the prevention/treatment of bark beetle and/or wood borer infestation of trees comprising treatment of the tree with a composition comprising a macroyclic lactone. |
| US08633166B2 |
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus active metabolites
This present provides kaempferol-3-(2-E,3-Z-di-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-(2-Z-3-E-di-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, and kaempferol-3-(2,3-di-Z-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside compounds useful as a new class of anti-bacterial agents. These compounds are extracted from Platanus occidentalis. These compounds were found to exhibit anti-bacterial activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). |
| US08633161B2 |
Therapeutic agents for the treatment of leukemia
The invention provides for methods of treating a mammal who has a BCR/ABL-mediated leukemia, including chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), particularly the blast crisis stage of CML, Philadelphia-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph′-ALL), and refractory leukemias. The invention also provides for compounds for the treatment of these leukemias and methods of identifying anti-leukemic agents. |
| US08633157B2 |
Glycopegylated erythropoietin
The present invention provides conjugates between erythropoietin and PEG moieties. The conjugates are linked via an intact glycosyl linking group interposed between and covalently attached to the peptide and the modifying group. The conjugates are formed from glycosylated peptides by the action of a glycosyltransferase. The glycosyltransferase ligates a modified sugar moiety onto a glycosyl residue on the peptide. Also provided are methods for preparing the conjugates, methods for treating various disease conditions with the conjugates, and pharmaceutical formulations including the conjugates. |
| US08633155B2 |
Methods of using angiopoietin-like 4 protein to stimulate proliferation of pre-adipocytes
ANGPTL4 compositions and methods of using such compositions, and agonists or antagonists thereof, for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases or disorders are included, including methods to modulate cell proliferation, cell adhesion, and cell migration. |
| US08633154B2 |
Cyclodepsipeptides with antineoplastic activity and methods of using to inhibit cancer and microbial growth
The present invention is directed to cyclodepsipeptide compounds having antineoplastic and/or antimicrobial activity, preferably Kitastatin 1. The present invention is further directed to methods of inhibiting cancer cell growth and/or microbial growth in a host inflicted therewith by administering cyclodepsipeptide compounds to the inflicted host. |
| US08633152B2 |
Process for making micro-sized protein particles
A process of making micro-sized protein particles comprising the step of drying nano-sized protein particles suspended in a liquid medium under conditions to agglomerate the nano-sized protein particles and thereby form micro-sized protein particles. |
| US08633151B2 |
Ghrelin analogs
The invention comprises peptidyl analogs that possess agonist or antagonist ghrelin activity, along with therapeutic and non-therapeutic uses thereof. |
| US08633139B2 |
Methods of screening complex protein libraries to identify altered properties
The invention provides methods of making designed and constructed protein (e.g., antibody) libraries and libraries resulting from the same. |
| US08633128B2 |
Lacunary Keggin type heteropolyanion based on tungsten for hydrocracking
The invention describes a heteropolycompound constituted by a nickel salt of a lacunary Keggin type heteropolyanion comprising tungsten in its structure, with formula: Nix+y/2AW11-yO39-5/2y, zH2O wherein Ni is nickel, A is selected from phosphorus, silicon and boron, W is tungsten, O is oxygen, y=0 or 2, x=3.5 if A is phosphorus, x=4 if A is silicon, x=4.5 if A is boron, and x=m/2+2 for the rest, and z is a number in the range 0 to 36, in which said heteropolycompound has no nickel atom in substitution for a tungsten atom in its structure, said nickel atoms being placed in the counter-ion position in the structure of said compound. |
| US08633126B2 |
Three and four atom bridged dicarbonate compounds as internal donors in catalysts for polypropylene manufacture
A solid, hydrocarbon-insoluble, catalyst component useful in polymerizing olefins, said catalyst component containing magnesium, titanium, and halogen, and further containing an internal electron donor having a structure: [R1—O—C(O)—O—]xR2 wherein R1 is independently at each occurrence, an aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon, or substituted hydrocarbon group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms; x is 2-4; and R2 is an aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbon, or substituted hydrocarbon group containing from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, provided that there are from 3 to 4 atoms in the shortest chain connecting a first R1—O—C(O)—O— group and a second R1—O—C(O)—O— group. |
| US08633122B2 |
Method of manufacturing anode for in-situ sintering for molten carbonate fuel cell
Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing an anode for in-situ sintering for a molten carbonate fuel cell, in which an anode green sheet is prepared using a slurry, and then a reinforcing layer is placed on the anode green sheet and then pressed, thereby improving the mechanical stability of a fuel cell stack and the long term stability of an anode, and an anode manufactured using the method. |
| US08633121B2 |
Fluorophosphate glass, glass material for press molding, optical element blank, optical element, processes for production of same, and process for production of glass moldings
The present invention provide a fluorophosphate glass comprising 3 to 25 cation % of P5+, more than 30 cation % and 40 cation % or less of Al3+, 0.5 to 20 cation % of Li+ and 65 anion % or more of F− as glass ingredients, and having a liquid phase temperature of 700° C. or less. The fluorophosphate glass of the present invention has ultra low dispersibility and stability, and is preferably used for glass materials for press molding, optical element blanks and optical elements. |
| US08633118B2 |
Method of forming thin metal and semi-metal layers by thermal remote oxygen scavenging
Methods for forming thin metal and semi-metal layers by thermal remote oxygen scavenging are described. In one embodiment, the method includes forming an oxide layer containing a metal or a semi-metal on a substrate, where the semi-metal excludes silicon, forming a diffusion layer on the oxide layer, forming an oxygen scavenging layer on the diffusion layer, and performing an anneal that reduces the oxide layer to a corresponding metal or semi-metal layer by oxygen diffusion from the oxide layer to the oxygen scavenging layer. |
| US08633116B2 |
Dry etching method
A dry etching method includes a first step and a second step. The first step includes generating a first plasma from a gas mixture, which includes an oxidation gas and a fluorine containing gas, and performing anisotropic etching with the first plasma on a silicon layer to form a recess in the silicon layer. The second step includes alternately repeating an organic film forming process whereby an organic film is deposited on the inner surface of the recess with a second plasma, and an etching process whereby the recess covered with the organic film is anisotropically etched with the first plasma. When an etching stopper layer is exposed from a part of the bottom surface of the recess formed in the first step, the first step is switched to the second step. |
| US08633106B2 |
Heterojunction bipolar transistors and methods of manufacture
Semiconductor structures and methods of manufacture semiconductors are provided which relate to heterojunction bipolar transistors. The method includes forming two devices connected by metal wires on a same wiring level. The metal wire of a first of the two devices is formed by selectively forming a metal cap layer on copper wiring structures. |
| US08633103B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of the same
In order to achieve the highly reliable and highly functional semiconductor device capable of the high-speed transmission by stacking thin chips and substrates, a connecting process and a connecting structure capable of making a solid connection at a low temperature with a low load and maintaining the shape of a connecting portion even if the connecting portion is heated in the stacking process and the subsequent mounting process are provided. In a semiconductor device in which semiconductor chips or wiring boards on which semiconductor chips are mounted are stacked, a connecting structure between electrodes of the stacked semiconductor chips or wiring boards includes a pair of electrodes mainly made of Cu and a solder layer made of Sn—In based alloy sandwiched between the electrodes, and Sn—Cu—Ni intermetallic compounds are dispersed in the solder layer. |
| US08633100B2 |
Method of manufacturing integrated circuit packaging system with support structure
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a substrate; forming a connection post on the substrate, the connection post having a post top and a post side; mounting an integrated circuit die on the substrate, the integrated circuit die having a top die surface; molding an encapsulation on the integrated circuit die and the connection post; and forming a connector recess in the encapsulation by removing the encapsulation around the connection post exposing a portion of the post side. |
| US08633092B2 |
Quantum well device
An apparatus includes a primary planar quantum well and a planar distribution of dopant atoms. The primary planar quantum well is formed by a lower barrier layer, a central well layer on the lower barrier layer, and an upper barrier layer on the central well layer. Each of the layers is a semiconductor layer. One of the barrier layers has a secondary planar quantum well and is located between the planar distribution of dopant atoms and the central well layer. The primary planar quantum well may be undoped or substantially undoped, e.g., intrinsic semiconductor. |
| US08633091B2 |
Chip package and fabrication method thereof
A chip package includes a substrate having a pad region, a device region, and a remained scribe region located at a periphery of the substrate; a signal and an EMI ground pads disposed on the pad region; a first and a second openings penetrating into the substrate to expose the signal and the EMI ground pads, respectively; a first and a second conducting layers located in the first and the second openings and electrically connecting the signal and the EMI ground pads, respectively, wherein the first conducting layer and the signal pad are separated from a periphery of the remained scribe region, and wherein a portion of the second conducting layer and/or the EMI ground pad extend(s) to a periphery of the remained scribe region; and a third conducting layer surrounding the periphery of the remained scribe region to electrically connect the second conducting layer and/or the EMI ground pad. |
| US08633090B2 |
Method for forming substrate with buried insulating layer
A method for forming an edge-chamfered substrate with a buried insulating layer is provided, which comprises the following steps: providing a first substrate (S10); forming an etching mask layer on surfaces of the first substrate, wherein said etching mask layer is formed on the whole surfaces of the first substrate (S11); chamfering a glazed surface of the first substrate and the etching mask layer thereon by the edge grinding (S12); by rotary etching, etching the first substrate which is exposed by the edge grinding on the etching mask layer (S13); providing a second substrate (S14); and bonding the first substrate to the second substrate with a buried insulating layer (S15). The method avoids the edge collapses and the changes of the warp degree in subsequent processes. |
| US08633089B2 |
Die bonding method utilizing rotary wafer table
An array of semiconductor components, comprising a first plurality of semiconductor components and a second plurality of semiconductor components held on a carrier, is bonded onto one or more substrates. The first plurality of semiconductor components is first located for pick-up by a transfer device, and each semiconductor component comprised in the first plurality of semiconductor components is picked up with the transfer device and is bonded onto a respective bonding position on the one or more substrates. After the first plurality of semiconductor components have been picked up and bonded, the carrier is rotated and the second plurality of semiconductor components is located for pick-up by the transfer device. Thereafter, each semiconductor component comprised in the second plurality of semiconductor components is picked up with the transfer device and is bonded onto a respective bonding position on the one or more substrates. |
| US08633086B2 |
Power devices having reduced on-resistance and methods of their manufacture
A method for forming a support structure for supporting and handling a semiconductor wafer containing vertical FETs formed at the front surface thereof is provided. In one embodiment, a semiconductor wafer is provided having a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface comprises one or more dies separated by dicing lines. The wafer is thinned to a predetermined thickness. A plurality of patterned metal features are formed on a thinned rear surface to provide support for the wafer, wherein each of the plurality of patterned metal features covers substantially one die, leaving the dicing lines substantially uncovered. The wafer is thereafter diced along the dicing lines to separate the one or more dies for later chip packaging. |
| US08633085B2 |
Dual-depth self-aligned isolation structure for a back gate electrode
Doped semiconductor back gate regions self-aligned to active regions are formed by first patterning a top semiconductor layer and a buried insulator layer to form stacks of a buried insulator portion and a semiconductor portion. Oxygen is implanted into an underlying semiconductor layer at an angle so that oxygen-implanted regions are formed in areas that are not shaded by the stack or masking structures thereupon. The oxygen implanted portions are converted into deep trench isolation structures that are self-aligned to sidewalls of the active regions, which are the semiconductor portions in the stacks. Dopant ions are implanted into the portions of the underlying semiconductor layer between the deep trench isolation structures to form doped semiconductor back gate regions. A shallow trench isolation structure is formed on the deep trench isolation structures and between the stacks. |
| US08633078B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor device is formed with a gate pattern formed on a substrate, and a recrystallized region having a stacking fault defect in the substrate at one side of the gate pattern. The semiconductor device can have a reduced leakage current and improved channel conductivity. |
| US08633073B2 |
Method of forming semiconductor device
A method of forming a semiconductor device includes the following processes. A first groove is formed in a semiconductor substrate. A first conductive film is formed in the first groove and over the semiconductor substrate. The first conductive film is planarized over the semiconductor substrate. The planarized first conductive film is selectively etched to have the planarized first conductive film remain in a lower portion of the first groove. |
| US08633069B2 |
Array substrate and manufacturing method thereof, active display
A manufacturing method for an array substrate comprising: sequentially forming a gate metal film, a gate insulating layer and an active layer film; applying photoresist, and patterning the photoresist; etching the stacked layers corresponding to a photoresist-completely-removed region; ashing to remove the photoresist in a photoresist-partially-remained region and remain a part of photoresist in a photoresist-completely-remained region, etching the gate insulating layer and the active layer film in the photoresist-partially-remained region; forming an insulating layer film; lifting off the photoresist and the insulating layer film thereon; forming a conductive film, and patterning the conductive film to from a source electrode, a drain electrode, a data line, a pixel electrode and an active layer channel. |
| US08633066B2 |
Thin film transistor with reduced edge slope angle, array substrate and having the thin film transistor and manufacturing method thereof
A thin film transistor is provided, which comprises at least an active layer, a source electrode and a drain electrode, wherein the source electrode and the drain electrode are located on the active layer and spaced apart from each other; a channel is defined in the active layer between the source electrode and the drain electrode; edges of the active layer are aligned with outer edges of the source electrode and the drain electrode, the outer edge of the source electrode is an edge of the source electrode opposite to the drain electrode, and the outer edge of the drain electrode is an edge of the drain electrode opposite to the source electrode. Also, a method of manufacturing a thin film transistor is provided. |
| US08633062B2 |
Integrated circuit package system with integral inner lead and paddle and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit package system includes: forming a paddle, an outer lead, and an inner lead between the paddle and the outer lead; forming a non-vertical paddle edge of the paddle and a non-vertical lead edge of the inner lead facing the non-vertical paddle edge; and encapsulating an integrated circuit die over the paddle. |
| US08633056B2 |
Integrated circuit package system and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit package system includes forming a substrate with a device thereover, forming an encapsulation having a planar top surface to cover the device and the substrate spanning to an extraction side of the encapsulation, and forming a recess in the encapsulation from the planar top surface. |
| US08633055B2 |
Graphene field effect transistor
Manufacturing a semiconductor structure including: forming a seed material on a sidewall of a mandrel; forming a graphene field effect transistor (FET) on the seed material; and removing the seed material. |
| US08633050B2 |
Solar cell, and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a solar cell having an effective minority charge carrier lifetime (τeff) of at least 500 μs, said method comprising: providing a semiconductor wafer; and passivating a surface of said wafer by ALD-depositing a metal oxide layer on said surface by sequentially and alternatingly: (iii) exposing said surface to a first precursor, resulting in a coverage of the surface with the first precursor, and (iv) exposing said surface to a second precursor, resulting in a coverage of the surface with the second precursor, wherein at least one of steps (i) and (ii) is stopped before the coverage of the surface reaches a saturation level. |
| US08633045B2 |
Method for making epitaxial structure
A method for making epitaxial structure is provided. The method includes providing a substrate having an epitaxial growth surface, placing a carbon nanotube layer on the epitaxial growth surface, and epitaxially growing an epitaxial layer on the epitaxial growth surface. The carbon nanotube layer can be a carbon nanotube film drawn from a carbon nanotube array and including a plurality of successive and oriented carbon nanotubes joined end-to-end by van der Waals attractive force therebetween. |
| US08633039B2 |
Methods of combinatorial processing for screening multiple samples on a semiconductor substrate
In embodiments of the current invention, methods of combinatorial processing and a test chip for use in these methods are described. These methods and test chips enable the efficient development of materials, processes, and process sequence integration schemes for semiconductor manufacturing processes. In general, the methods simplify the processing sequence of forming devices or partially formed devices on a test chip such that the devices can be tested immediately after formation. The immediate testing allows for the high throughput testing of varied materials, processes, or process sequences on the test chip. The test chip has multiple site isolated regions where each of the regions is varied from one another and the test chip is designed to enable high throughput testing of the different regions. |
| US08633038B2 |
Manufacturing method of semiconductor integrated circuit device
In wafer probe inspection for a flip-chip semiconductor device having a solder bump, electric test may be performed at a high temperature by causing a probe needle to directly contact a solder bump over a wafer. The inventors have examined such high temperature probe tests in various ways and revealed the following problems. When a high temperature probe test is performed at 90° C. or higher using a palladium alloy probe needle, tin diffusion due to a solder bump occurs at the needle point to raise resistance, resulting in causing open failure. According to the invention of the present application, at least the tip of a palladium-based probe needle has mainly a granular grain structure in a high temperature probe test performed with the palladium-based probe needle contacting a solder bump electrode over a semiconductor wafer. |
| US08633036B2 |
Manufacturing method of ferroelectric capacitor
Provided is a ferroelectric memory including a silicon substrate, a transistor formed on the silicon substrate, and a ferroelectric capacitor formed above the transistor. The ferroelectric capacitor includes a lower electrode, a ferroelectric film formed on the lower electrode, an upper electrode formed on the ferroelectric film, and a metal film formed on the upper electrode. |
| US08633032B2 |
Nucleic acid extraction kit, nucleic acid extraction method, and nucleic acid extraction apparatus
A nucleic acid extraction kit, which enables the nucleic acid extraction operation to be accomplished safely without causing contamination, and in which the complex preparation of reagents and the disposal treatments that are performed before and after the nucleic acid extraction operation can be performed rapidly and simply, with the extraction performed in an automated manner. The nucleic acid extraction kit includes: a container including reagent wells that each store at least a reagent, a sample well into which a biological sample is introduced, a waste liquid well, and a collection well in which an extracted nucleic acid is collected, and an extraction filter cartridge equipped with an extraction filter for separating and extracting a nucleic acid from the biological sample, wherein the extraction filter cartridge is formed in a manner that enables the extraction filter cartridge to be supported on the waste liquid well and the collection well. |
| US08633030B2 |
Polypeptides having carboxypeptidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having carboxypeptidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US08633029B2 |
Agent for improving gene transfer efficiency to mammalian cells
Provided is an efficiency improving agent for gene transfer to mammalian cells, a method for improving efficiency of gene transfer to mammalian cells, and a method for transforming mammalian cells. The method is characterized in that tRNA is used in combination with a lipofection reagent. Preferably, the agent may be used so that the tRNA concentration in a lipofection solution falls within the range of 3 to 50 μg/mL, and the concentration in a culture is approximately 1/10. More preferably, tRNA and PEG may be used in combination with a lipofection reagent. According to the present invention, gene transfer to mammalian cells with high efficiency can be achieved. |
| US08633024B2 |
PDX1 expressing endoderm
Disclosed herein are cell cultures comprising PDX1-positive endoderm cells and methods of producing the same. Also disclosed herein are cell populations comprising substantially purified PDX1-positive endoderm cells as well as methods for enriching, isolating and purifying PDX1-positive endoderm cells from other cell types. Methods of identifying differentiation factors capable of promoting the differentiation of endoderm cells, such as PDX1-positive foregut endoderm cells and PDX1-negative definitive endoderm cells, are also disclosed. |
| US08633018B2 |
Fusion protein containing a single-stranded DNA binding protein and methods for expression and purification of the same
The present invention provides an expression vector comprising a promoter and a polynucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein. The present invention further provides a method for purification of an interest protein. The present invention also provides a fusion protein comprising a single-stranded DNA binding protein and an interest protein or polypeptide fused directly or indirectly with the COOH-terminus or NH2-terminus of the single-stranded DNA binding protein, wherein said fusion protein is capable of binding to single-stranded DNA. |
| US08633017B2 |
Device, a system and a method for monitoring and/or cultivation of microscopic objects
The present invention relates to a device, a system and a method for performing monitoring and/or cultivation of microscopic objects. Microscopic objects are in particular microscopic organisms like bacteria and cell cultures, such as cultivation objects like tissue samples and embryos, providing optimal and safe cultivation conditions for incubation during embryo development and for facilitating the selection of optimal embryos to be used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) by facilitating embryo handling for automated digital imaging and time-lapse microscopy. |
| US08633015B2 |
Flow-based thermocycling system with thermoelectric cooler
Thermocycling system, including methods and apparatus, for performing a flow-based reaction on a sample in fluid. The system may include a plurality of segments defining at least two temperature regions, and also may include a plurality of heating elements configured to maintain each temperature region at a different desired temperature. At least one of the heating elements may be a thermoelectric cooler operatively disposed to transfer heat to and/or from a temperature region The system further may include a fluid channel extending along a helical path that passes through the temperature regions multiple times such that fluid flowing in the channel is heated and cooled cyclically. |
| US08633014B2 |
Device for biochemical processing and analysis of a sample
A device including a sample compartment, a coil and an arm for mechanical manipulation of a sample vessel placed in the sample compartment and containing a sample is described. In at least one embodiment, the coil is surrounding the sample compartment and the sample compartment has an opening for insertion and removal of the sample vessel. A method, using the device according to at least one embodiment of the invention for detection of magnetic permeability, relative magnetic permeability or relative magnetic susceptibility, is also described. |
| US08633007B2 |
Diagnosis of endometritis
The present invention relates to methods for diagnosing and treatment of a dormant infection of at least one pathogen. The invention further relates to a composition comprising an anti-dormancy factor as well as to said composition for use in a method of diagnosis or treatment and also to a method for manufacturing said composition. The invention further relates to a kit of parts comprising, inter alia, said composition. The invention also relates to a method for activating a dormant infection. |
| US08633004B1 |
Method and system for harvesting hydrothermal energy
A method for extracting fuel gases from an underwater plume emitted from an underwater hydrothermal vent includes the step of collecting via an underwater fluid collector an underwater plume emitted from the hydrothermal vent. The underwater plume includes methane and hydrogen. The method further includes a step of directing a first fluid containing the underwater plume into a first inlet of a first underwater heat exchanger and a second fluid into a second inlet of the first underwater heat exchanger. The second fluid at the second inlet is at a temperature sufficiently lower than the temperature of the first fluid to transfer sufficient heat therebetween to form methane hydrate and hydrogen-methane hydrate in the first fluid. The method further includes the step of conveying the methane hydrate and hydrogen-methane hydrate to the surface of the water body via a duct connected to a first outlet of the first heat exchanger. |
| US08633000B2 |
Process for the production of L-Citrulline
Processes for producing a suitable purity grade of L-Citrulline are disclosed. The processes can include contacting crude L-Citrulline in an aqueous solution with an adsorptive medium at a temperature above approximately 50° C. and below the temperature of denaturement for the L-Citrulline for an interval sufficient to remove at least one contaminant from the L-Citrulline. The processes can also include concentrating the dissolved L-Citrulline relative to the aqueous solution. |
| US08632996B2 |
Method for producing recombinant antibody and antibody fragment thereof
A recombinant antibody or the antibody fragment thereof which specifically reacts with an extracellular domain of human CCR4; a DNA which encodes the recombinant antibody or the antibody fragment thereof; a method for producing the recombinant antibody or the antibody fragment thereof; a method for immunologically detecting CCR4, a method for immunologically detecting a cell which expressed CCR4 on the cell surface, a method for depleting a cell which expresses CCR4 on the cell surface, and a method for inhibiting production of Th2 cytokine, which comprise using the recombinant antibody according or antibody fragment thereof; a therapeutic or diagnostic agent for Th2-mediated immune diseases; and a therapeutic or diagnostic agent for a blood cancer. |
| US08632985B2 |
Binding molecules for the treatment of myeloid cell malignancies
Provided is a human C-type lectin, binding molecules that specifically bind to the human C-type lectin, nucleic acid molecules encoding the binding molecules or the human C-type lectin, compositions comprising the binding molecules or the human C-type lectin and methods of identifying or producing the binding molecules. The human C-type lectin is specifically expressed on myeloid cells and binding molecules capable of specifically binding to the human C-type lectin can be used in the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of neoplastic disorders and diseases. |
| US08632983B2 |
Biomarkers for pancreatic cancer and diagnostic methods
Methods and related kits for differentiating pancreatic cancer from a benign pancreatic disease. The method includes assaying a patient biological sample for a total level of CA 19-9 antigen and for a glycan level in specific mucin(s), and comparing the total level of CA 19-9 antigen and the glycan level in the specific mucin(s) to statistically validated thresholds, wherein a different level of total CA 19-9 antigen in the patient biological sample as compared to a statistically validated threshold and a different level of glycan level in the specific mucin(s) as compared to statistically validated thresholds indicate pancreatic cancer in the patient rather than a benign pancreatic disease. |
| US08632981B2 |
Method for a rapid test
Disclosed is a method for a rapid test. In accordance with an embodiment, a particle reagent is placed into a separate sample or reagent receptacle or test tube, in which the particle reagent reacts with one or several analytes in the liquid sample, and the particle reagent is put into contact with the rapid test device, in which a visible signal is formed by the particle reagent. |
| US08632977B2 |
Annealing control primer and its uses
The present invention relates to an annealing control primer for improving annealing specificity in nucleic acid amplification and its applications to all fields of nucleic acid amplification-involved technology. The present primer comprises (a) a 3′-end portion having a hybridizing nucleotide sequence substantially complementary to a site on a template nucleic acid to hybridize therewith; (b) a 5′-end portion having a pre-selected arbitrary nucleotide sequence; and (c) a regulator portion positioned between said 3′-end portion and said 5′-end portion comprising at least one universal base or non-discriminatory base analog, whereby said regulator portion is capable of regulating an annealing portion of said primer in association with annealing temperature. |
| US08632972B2 |
Methods and compositions for identifying RNA-binding proteins
The present invention includes compositions, methods and kits for the identification of a polypeptide that binds to a predetermined RNA sequence. The invention comprises, in part, a photoreactive moiety to aid in identification of such a polypeptide. |
| US08632966B2 |
Detection of biological molecules by differential partitioning of enzyme substrates and products
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting a biological molecule associated with enzyme activity in a sample. The invention is applicable to detecting a microorganism associated with an enzyme in a sample such as water, food, soil, or a biological sample. According to a preferred embodiment of the method of the invention, a sample containing an enzyme of interest or a microorganism associated with the enzyme is combined with a suitable substrate, and a fluorescent product of the enzyme-substrate reaction is selectively detected. The fluorescent product is detected with a partitioning element or optical probe/partitioning element of the invention. In one embodiment the partitioning element provides for partitioning of only the fluorescent product molecule into the probe. The invention also provides an automated system for monitoring for biological contamination of water or other samples. |
| US08632963B2 |
Method for improving cell permeability to foreign particles
The present invention provides a method for allowing foreign particles to penetrate, very efficiently, the cell wall, cell membrane, organelle membrane and/or nuclear membrane of a cell and hybridizing or binding to the complimentary target in the cell. The cells may be from a culture or from specimens obtained from a patient. The foreign particle can be a probe consisting of, for example, either individually or in any combination of two or more of the following: DNA, RNA, peptide nucleic acids (PNA), glycopeptides, lipopeptides, glycolipids or prions. The target is a cell, a cell component or, preferably, a pathogen or pathogen component. The pathogen can be, for example, bacteria, fungi, yeast or viruses. |
| US08632961B2 |
Flexographic processing solution and use
A processing solution (or developer) has been designed for use to washout non-polymerized photopolymer compositions to prepare flexographic printing plates having flexographic relief images. This processing solution includes one or more esters of monobasic carboxylic acids represented by one or both of Structures (I) and (II) defined herein and one or more aliphatic or aromatic alcohols. |
| US08632959B2 |
Flexographic printing plate assembly
A printing plate assembly for use in flexographic printing application is provided which includes an integral carrier layer, one or more cushion layers, and one or more photopolymer layers. The photopolymer layer(s) in the integral assembly are provided with relief images using digital imaging photopolymerization, which eliminates the need for a back exposure step and provides a precise relief depth for the plate. |
| US08632958B2 |
Method of controlling surface roughness of a flexographic printing plate
A method of controlling surface roughness of the relief surface of a flexographic printing element during thermal processing is provided. An imaged and exposed relief image printing element is thermally developed to remove the portions of at least one layer of photopolymer that are not crosslinked and cured by a) heating the at least one layer of photopolymer to soften uncured portions of the at least one layer of photopolymer; b) causing contact between the at least one layer of photopolymer and a blotting material; and c) separating the blotting material from the at least one layer of photopolymer. Thereafter, a smooth material is inserted between the surface of the at least one layer of photopolymer and the blotting material. In the alternative, a polymeric film is laminated onto the relief image printing element using heat and pressure. |
| US08632956B2 |
Process for producing photosensitive resin plate and relief printing plate having recessed and projected pattern, and plate surface treating liquid used in the process
The present invention provides a process for producing a photosensitive resin plate or relief printing plate having a recessed and projected pattern, which comprises the steps of: making a liquid containing an ink-repellent component (A) and a curing component (B) attach to the plate surface of the photosensitive resin plate or relief printing plate having a recessed and projected pattern prior to the post-treatment step or during the post-treatment step, wherein the ink-repellent component (A) comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of silicon-based compounds, fluorine-based compounds and paraffin-based compounds, and provides a treatment liquid which is suitable for the process for producing the photosensitive resin plate or the relief printing plate having the recessed and projected pattern. |
| US08632954B2 |
Method for making a lithographic printer plate precursor
A method for making a lithographic printing plate precursor is disclosed comprising the steps of a. providing a lithographic printing plate precursor including a support having a hydrophilic surface or which is provided with a hydrophilic layer, a photopolymerizable coating comprising a photopolymerizable composition, and an overcoat layer comprising a water soluble low molecular weight acid, wherein said overcoat layer has a surface pH-value ranging between 1 to 6; b. image-wise exposing the precursor; c. optionally heating the exposed precursor; d. processing the obtained precursor by applying a gum solution and optionally brushing the precursor, and/or by mounting the precursor on a plate cylinder of a lithographic printing press and rotating the plate cylinder while feeding dampening liquid and/or ink to the coating. The printing plate obtained after imaging and processing in an off-press configuration with a gum solution or in an on-press configuration with fountain solution and ink shows an improved roll-up performance in the start-up of a printing process on a printing press. |
| US08632951B2 |
Positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser and process for making lithographic printing plate
A positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser is provided that includes, layered sequentially above a support, a lower layer and an upper layer, the lower layer and/or the upper layer including an infrared absorbing agent, either the lower layer comprising an alkali-soluble group-containing graft copolymer or the upper layer comprising a sulfonamide group-, active imide group-, and/or amide group-containing graft copolymer, and the graft copolymer being a polyurethane resin having as a graft chain an ethylenically unsaturated monomer-derived constitutional unit. There is also provided a process for making a lithographic printing plate, the process including in sequence an exposure step of imagewise exposing by means of an infrared laser the positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser and a development step of developing using an aqueous alkali solution with a pH of 8.5 to 10.8. |
| US08632950B2 |
Cyanine dyes and lithographic printing plate precursors comprising such dyes
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes a cyanine dye, characterized in that the cyanine dye includes two different chromophoric groups, a chromophoric group that has its main absorption in the infrared region and another chromophoric group that has its main absorption in the visible light region. The cyanine dye has preferably a structure according to Formula I: |
| US08632949B2 |
Lithographic printing plate support and presensitized plate
A presensitized plate bringing about the lithographic printing plate which exhibits a high resistance to scumming and in which formation of bulges causing image dropouts is suppressed is provided with the lithographic printing plate support which includes an aluminum plate and an anodized film of aluminum provided on the aluminum plate, and has a micropore extending in the anodized film in the direction of depth from a film surface opposite with a film surface facing the aluminum plate. The micropore is sealed at least partially on its inside with protrusions made of boehmite, and the protrusions made of boehmite which are located on the anodized film have a mean height of less than 15 nm. |
| US08632941B2 |
Negative-working lithographic printing plate precursors with IR dyes
A lithographic printing plate precursor comprises an imageable layer comprising a free radically polymerizable component, an initiator composition capable of generating free radicals upon exposure to imaging infrared radiation, an infrared radiation absorbing dye that is defined by Structure (I) shown in the disclosure, which dyes comprise one or more ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable groups in an organic group that is attached to the methine chain. These infrared radiation absorbing dyes exhibit a reduced tendency to crystallize in the imageable layers in the presence of tetraaryl borate counter anions and therefore provide improved shelf life. |
| US08632940B2 |
Aluminum substrates and lithographic printing plate precursors
Electrochemically grained and anodized aluminum supports are treated with a post-treatment coating solution containing a polymer derived at least in part from vinyl phosphonic acid and phosphoric acid. This post-treated support is useful as substrates in the preparation of lithographic printing plate precursors. The post-treatment substrate treatment enables wide latitude in manufacturing and compatibility with silicate-free developers to achieve negligible background staining and oxide attack. |
| US08632938B2 |
Actinic-ray- or radiation-sensitive resin composition and method of forming pattern using the composition
According to one embodiment, an actinic-ray- or radiation-sensitive resin composition comprises a hydrophobic resin (HR) containing a fluorine atom, wherein the hydrophobic resin (HR) comprises any of repeating units (a) of general formula (I) or (II) below: |
| US08632936B2 |
Process for production of electrophotographic toner
A method for producing an electrophotographic toner, including steps of: (1) preparing a thermally treated resin particle dispersion by retaining, for one hour or longer at a temperature satisfying the formula: (melting point of the crystalline polyester (a1)−35) (° C.) |
| US08632933B2 |
Developer for electrostatic latent image development and image forming method
A developer for electrostatic latent image development including a positively chargeable toner and a fatty acid metal salt is used, in which the fatty acid metal salt is a metal salt selected from the group consisting of zinc, calcium, and magnesium salts of fatty acids of 12 to 20 carbon atoms and has a certain volume average particle diameter and particle size distribution. |
| US08632930B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing dark field double dipole lithography (DDL)
A method of generating complementary masks for use in a dark field double dipole imaging process. The method includes the steps of identifying a target pattern having a plurality of features, including horizontal and vertical features; generating a horizontal mask based on the target pattern, where the horizontal mask includes low contrast vertical features. The generation of the horizontal mask includes the steps of optimizing the bias of the low contrast vertical features contained in the horizontal mask; and applying assist features to the horizontal mask. The method further includes generating a vertical mask based on the target pattern, where the vertical mask contains low contrast horizontal features. The generation of the vertical mask includes the steps of optimizing the bias of low contrast horizontal features contained in the vertical mask; and applying assist features to the vertical mask. |
| US08632927B2 |
Membraneless fuel cell and method of operating same
A direct fuel cell comprises a cathode comprising electroactive catalyst material; and an anode assembly comprising an anode having a porous layer and electroactive catalyst material in the porous layer. The electrode characteristics of the anode assembly are selected so that fuel supplied to the anode is reacted within the anode so that cross-over from the anode to the cathode does not have more than a 10% negative effect on voltage or a 25 mV voltage loss when at peak power and steady state conditions. The anode and cathode each have a first major surface facing each other in non-electrical contact and without a microporous separator or ion exchange membrane therebetween. |
| US08632924B2 |
Solid oxide fuel cells and manufacturing method thereof
Provided are a solid oxide fuel cell and a method of manufacturing the same. The solid oxide fuel cell in which at least one or more unit modules are stacked and integrated with each other includes first and second solid electrolyte layers in which each of the unit modules includes a plurality of fuel electrodes spaced a predetermined distance from each other and each having a strip shape and first and second supports each including a plurality of slits each having the same strip shape as that of each of the fuel electrodes. The first and second solid electrolyte layers overlap with each other on lower and upper sides of the first support so that the fuel electrodes face each other within the slits of the first support, and the second support overlaps with a lower side of the first or second solid electrolyte layer overlapping with the lower side of the first support so that the slits of the second support are disposed perpendicular to the slits of the first support. The slits of the first and second supports define fuel paths and air paths, respectively. |
| US08632919B2 |
Electrolyte of high temperature property and overcharge-prevention property and secondary battery employed with the same
Provided is a secondary battery electrolyte having improved high temperature properties and overcharge-prevention properties, particularly improved overcharge-prevention properties under high voltage/high current conditions, in conjunction with a minimized deterioration of the battery performance, by adding 3 to 5% by weight of cyclohexyl benzene (CHB) and 0.2 to 1.5% by weight of 2-fluoro biphenyl (2-FBP) as overcharge-preventing additives to an electrolyte of a lithium secondary battery. |
| US08632917B2 |
Organic electrolyte solution including vinyl-based compound and lithium battery using the same
An organic electrolyte solution includes a lithium salt; an organic solvent including a high permittivity solvent and a low boiling solvent; and a vinyl-based compound represented by Formula 1 below, wherein m and n are each independently integers of 1 to 10; X1, X2, and X3 each independently represent O, S, or NR9; and R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, and R9 are represented in the detailed description. The organic electrolyte solution of the present invention and a lithium battery using the same suppress degradation of an electrolyte, providing improved cycle properties and life span thereof. |
| US08632913B2 |
Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes a can having an open end and housing an electrode assembly; a cap assembly sealing the open end of the can; and an insulating case located between the electrode assembly and the cap assembly, the insulating case comprising folding protrusions protruding from a peripheral surface of the insulating case and oriented such that a first side of the folding protrusion contacts the insulating case and a second side of the folding protrusion contacts the can. |
| US08632902B2 |
Device for retaining a battery
A device is provided for retaining a battery in a motor vehicle and has a receptacle element for receiving a battery, a bracket element, which at least partially encloses the receptacle element and/or the battery, and a fixing element, which is fastenable on the bracket element, the battery being fixed inside the receptacle element using the fixing element. It is thus possible to provide a device for retaining a battery which offers the greatest possible protection for the battery even in case of an accident. |
| US08632901B2 |
Dish shaped and pressure equalizing electrodes for electrochemical batteries
A stacked battery has at least two cell segments arranged in a stack. Each cell segment may have a first electrode unit having a first active material electrode, a second electrode unit having a second active material electrode, and an electrolyte layer between the active material electrodes. One or more gaskets may be included in each cell segment to seal the electrolyte within the cell segment. The electrode units may be “dish shaped” and may contain a pressure equalization valve to reduce electrode unit deflection and improve pressure equalization between cell segments. The pressure equalization valve may allow a gas to diffuse through adjacent cell segments and may substantially prevent electrolyte from diffusing through. |
| US08632896B2 |
Radiation-curable vinyl chloride copolymer, radiation-curable composition, and magnetic recording medium
An aspect of the present invention relates to a radiation-curable vinyl chloride copolymer, which comprises a structural unit denoted by general formula (1): wherein, in general formula (1), R1 denotes a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, and L1 denotes a divalent linking group denoted by formula (2), formula (3), or general formula (4): wherein, in general formula (4), R41 denotes a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. |
| US08632894B2 |
Substrate for electronic device, method for manufacturing the substrate for electronic device, electronic device provided with the substrate for electronic device, and electronic equipment provided with the electronic device
A substrate for an electronic device having high carrier transport ability, a method for manufacturing a substrate for an electronic device which can manufacture such a substrate for an electronic device, an electronic device provided with the substrate for an electronic device and having improved properties, and electronic equipment having high reliability are provided. A substrate for an electronic device includes a light emitting layer (organic semiconductor layer), a cathode (inorganic layer), and an intermediate layer provided between the light emitting layer and the cathode so as to make contact with both of the light emitting layer and the cathode. The intermediate layer is constituted of a compound (1) represented by a general formula R—X—O-M as a main component thereof. In the general formula, the R is a hydrocarbon group, the X is any one of binding groups comprising a single bond, a carbonyl group and a sulfonyl group, and the M is any one of a hydrogen atom and a metal atom. Molecules of this compound (1) are oriented along a thickness direction of the intermediate layer in a state that each hydrocarbon group R is positioned on the side of the light emitting layer and each atom M is positioned on the side of the cathode. |
| US08632893B2 |
Organic compound and organic electroluminescence device employing the same
Organic compounds and organic electroluminescence devices employing the same are provided. The organic compound has a chemical structure represented as follows: wherein R are each independently an hydrogen, or a C1-8 alkyl group, and wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an hydrogen, or a C1-8 alkyl group, R3 is a hydrogen, and R1 and R2 are not hydrogen group simultaneously; or wherein R1 and R2 link together with the carbon atoms bonded thereto to form a phenyl group; wherein R2 and R3 link together with the carbon atoms bonded thereto to form a phenyl group. |
| US08632892B2 |
Organic electronic material, organic electronic device, and organic electroluminescent device
An object of the present invention is to provide an organic electronic material that can be easily formed into a multilayer structure. A further object of the present invention is to provide an organic electronic device and an organic EL device that exhibit a better emission efficiency and a better emission lifetime than heretofore achieved. In order to achieve these objects, an organic electronic material is provided, the material includes a polymer or oligomer that has at least one polymerizable substituent and a hole-transporting repeat unit. |
| US08632882B2 |
Dialkoxymagnesium granules and method for their synthesis
Dialkoxymagnesium granules having spherical or ellipsoidal particle shapes with a mean particle size, represented by D50, in the range of 60-200 μm, a bulk specific gravity of 0.2-0.7 g/ml, having numerous interior pores with pore sizes of 0.1-5 μm as observed with a TEM, and having a particle size distribution, represented by (D90−D10)/D50, of no greater than 1. Granular metallic magnesium and an alcohol are added continuously or intermittently in divided portions to a reaction system of the metallic magnesium and alcohol while circulating the alcohol for reaction. Large-sized dialkoxymagnesium granules are obtained with a uniform particle size distribution and containing no fine powder. |
| US08632873B2 |
Aligned nanoarray and method for fabricating the same
An elongated nanostructure is formed on a planar surface of a substrate such that the nanostructure is oriented generally perpendicularly to the surface. The nanostructure is then felled onto the surface such that it is oriented generally parallel to the surface. |
| US08632872B2 |
Ceramic honeycomb structure
There is provided a ceramic honeycomb structure usable as a catalyst substrate and being improved warm-up properties and thermal insulation properties, and being excellent in exhaust gas purification performance; by employing larger heat capacity and larger thermal conductivity compared with a material of the partition walls in at least one of insides and surfaces of the respective partition walls. |
| US08632870B2 |
Recording layer for optical information recording medium and optical information recording medium
An optical information recording medium includes a recording layer capable of recording information signals on the basis of application of light, wherein the recording layer contains an oxide of metal X and an oxide of metal Y, the metal X is at least one type selected from the group consisting of tungsten and molybdenum, and the metal Y is at least one type selected from the group consisting of copper, manganese, nickel, and silver. |
| US08632866B2 |
Polyester laminates
A polyester laminate including at least one polyester layer C and at least one layer selected from the group consisting of a resin layer D and a paper layer E. The polyester layer C is made of a polyester resin A in which from 5 to 80 mol % of the total diol units is a diol unit having a cyclic acetal structure. The resin layer D is made of a resin other than the polyester resin A. At least one surface layer of the polyester laminate is the resin layer C. The polyester laminate is particularly suited as a container for preserving food because of its excellent heat sealability and high fragrance preservation. |
| US08632865B2 |
Heat-shrinkable polyester film
A heat-shrinkable polyester film having a heat-shrinkage change per degree Celsius (%/° C.) along the main shrinkage direction of 1.5 to 3.0 in the range of 60° C. to 70° C., 2.5 to 3.5 in the range of 70° C. to 80° C., 1.0 to 2.0 in the range of 80° C. to 90° C., and 0.1 to 1.0 in the range of 90° C. to 100° C., has a good appearance quality after shrinkage and thus suitable for a wrapping material, particularly a label for a bottle. |
| US08632864B2 |
Decorative surface finish and method of forming same
A decorative metal finish for a part with a non-conductive surface where the non-conductive surface is lightly roughened to improve its adherence capabilities. A thin metal layer is electrolessly deposited on the lightly roughened surface to provide a bright durable metal finish on the non-conductive surface. An translucent finish is deposited over the thin metal layer to provide protection for the metal finish. |
| US08632862B2 |
Vertical alignment layer and liquid crystal display including the same
A liquid crystal display includes: a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other; a pair of field generating electrodes disposed on the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and including liquid crystal molecules having positive dielectric anisotropy; and at least one alignment layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein the alignment layer includes a main chain and at least one side chain connected to the main chain, and the side chain includes a vertical functional group or a polar group. |
| US08632860B2 |
Method of preparation of multifunctional technical textile by plasma-treatment
Disclosed is a method for preparing a multifunctional technical textile that exhibits multiple functional properties comprising flame or fire-retardancy, EMI shielding, anti-odorous property, UV protection, oil-repellency, anti-soiling property, antimicrobial property, anti-creasing property, water-proof, and antistatic property. The method comprises washing a textile product in a water solution comprising water mixed with a predetermined quantity of non-ionic detergent, storing the textile product at a predetermined temperature and a predetermined relative humidity, and subjecting the textile product to plasma treatment by placing the same in a plasma stream within a reaction chamber. |
| US08632853B2 |
Use of nitrogen-containing ligands in atomic layer deposition methods
Methods for deposition of elemental metal films on surfaces using metal coordination complexes comprising nitrogen-containing ligands are provided. Also provided are nitrogen-containing ligands useful in the methods of the invention and metal coordination complexes comprising these ligands. |
| US08632847B2 |
Methods of manufacture of bioresorbable and durable stents with grooved lumenal surfaces for enhanced re-endothelialization
Methods of making bioabsorbable stents with grooved lumenal surfaces for enhanced re-endothelialization are disclosed. Methods include molding grooves on the lumenal surface of coated bioresorbable and durable stents. Methods further include molding grooves on lumenal surfaces of a bioresorbable tube and forming a scaffold from the tube. |
| US08632846B2 |
Apparatus and methods for loading a drug eluting medical device
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for loading a therapeutic substance or drug within a lumenal space of a hollow wire having a plurality of side openings along a length thereof that forms a hollow drug-eluting stent with a plurality of side drug delivery openings. Loading a drug within the lumenal space of the hollow stent includes a drug filling step, in which the drug is mixed with a solvent or dispersion medium. The lumenal space may be filled with the drug solution or suspension in a reverse fill process and/or a forward fill process. After the drug filling step, a solvent or dispersion medium extracting step is performed to extract the solvent or dispersion medium from within the lumenal space such that only the drug remains within the hollow stent. A stent cleaning step may be performed to an exterior surface of the hollow stent. |
| US08632841B2 |
Systems and methods for rotating and coating an implantable device
A method for applying a coating to an implantable device is disclosed. The method includes positioning an implantable device relative to an ultrasonic material delivery apparatus. The implantable device is rotated at a relative speed. The relative speed may be more than 120 revolutions per minute. An application material is applied to the implantable device using the ultrasonic material delivery apparatus. The relative speed may be sufficient to reduce the size of at least a portion of droplets of the application material. A system for rotating an implantable device is disclosed. The system includes an implantable device and a rotation system configured to rotate the implantable device. A longitudinal axis of the implantable device and a longitudinal axis of a rotation member of the rotation system may be offset a desired dimension. An inside diameter of the implantable device may be larger than an outside diameter of a rotation member. |
| US08632838B2 |
Articles having non-fouling surfaces and processes for preparing the same including pretreatment of articles
Processes are described herein for preparing medical devices and other articles having a low-fouling surface on a substrate comprising a polymeric surface. The polymeric surface material may possess a range of polymeric backbones and substituents while providing the articles with a highly efficient, biocompatible, and non-fouling surface. The processes involve treating the substrate to reduce the concentration of chemical species on the surface of or in the substrate without altering the bulk physical properties of the device or article, and thereafter forming a grafted polymer layer on the treated substrate surface. |
| US08632837B2 |
Direct fluid coating of drug eluting balloon
A system and method for coating an expandable member of a medical device comprises providing a dispenser in fluid communication with a fluid source with the dispenser having at least one outlet to dispense fluid of the fluid source therefrom. The outlet(s) of the dispenser is positioned proximate a surface of an expandable member, with relative movement between the outlet(s) and the surface of the expandable member established along a coating path, and fluid is dispensed from the dispenser to form a substantially continuous bead of fluid between the at least one outlet and the surface of the expandable member along the coating path, and simultaneously drying the fluid while dispensing the fluid from the dispenser to control flow of fluid on the surface of the expandable member. The fluid source can include a variety of therapeutic agents. |
| US08632834B2 |
Edible energy composition
An energy composition includes a methylated xanthine, a choline derivative, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable. The energy composition may also include vitamins, amino acids, preservatives, and the like. |
| US08632832B2 |
Direct dissolution
The present disclosure describes a method for the continuous dissolution of e.g. crystalline astaxanthin or canthaxanthin suspension in oil, by applying heat for a predetermined period using an in-line or optionally batch wise-process, followed by cooling the heated solution with an oil phase or heat exchanger. The resulting oil solution may be used as such or added directly to feed components which are turned into feed compositions by extrusion, compaction or granulation. Alternatively the oil solution is spray coated or directly loaded to extruded or compacted pellets and granulates. The disclosure avoids using formulated carotenoids prepared by known multi-step production methods requiring solvents, solvent removal, cooling and emulsification with an aqueous phase or precipitation and recovery steps. Thus the present invention is a more economical, efficient and environmentally friendly method to add nutrients and colorants to feed compositions instead of using colloid dispersed particulate hydrocolloid compositions. |
| US08632830B2 |
Fish fodder for freshwater fish and use of such fodder
A rearing fodder of extruded fodder type, comprising proteins, fats and carbohydrates, for freshwater fish, wherein the fish is larger than 2 grams, and wherein the freshwater has a content of CO2 being above 5 milligrams/liter, wherein the fodder has an increased content of at least one of the minerals: phosphate (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na) and magnesium (Mg) beyond what exists naturally in the used protein raw materials, fat raw materials and carbohydrate raw materials, wherein the collective amount of minerals in the extruded fodder is at least 10%, on a dry substance basis, of the total weight of the fodder, and wherein one or more of the minerals phosphate (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na) and magnesium (Mg) is/are added beyond what exist in the used protein raw materials, fat raw materials and carbohydrate raw materials. |
| US08632828B2 |
Chinese herbal medicine composition used for antiinflammation, detumescence and acesodyne, and preparation method and use thereof
A Chinese herbal medicine composition used for antiinflammation, detumescence and acesodyne, comprising first type medicinal material and second type medicinal material. The first type medicinal material includes Rhizoma Bletillae, Cortex Cinnamomi, Radix Angelicae Formosanae, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Paeonia Lactiflora, Rhizoma Notopterygii, Radix Linderae, Glycyrrhizae, Radix Angelicae Pubescentis, and Radix Et Rhizoma Rhei. The second type medicinal material includes one, two, or three selected from the group consisting of Zingiber Officinale, Olibanum, and Myrrha. The preparation method for the Chinese herbal medicine composition includes adding the first type medicinal material and the second type medicinal material into a container with organic solvent, heating, filtering, and then condensing the filtrate into an extractum. |
| US08632824B2 |
Process of obtaining thylakoids from photosynthetic organisms; plant fractions obtained from the process; pure thylakoids; and methods of use of thylakoids as ROS scavengers, photo-protectors, biosensors, biofilters and bioreactors
This invention relates to a process by which an extract comprising integral thylakoids is obtained. The resulting extract is a potent dynamic antioxidant useful as a ROS (reactive oxygen species) scavenger. This extract is intended to be used for the treatment or prevention of diseases involving the generation of ROS, such as inflammatory diseases or cancer. This extract also finds a use as a solar screen because of its capacity to capture UV radiations and to dissipate the solar energy into heat. |
| US08632822B2 |
Combination of an oxidant and a photoactivator for the healing of wounds
There is provided wound healing composition which comprises at least one oxidant, at least one photoactivator capable of actuating the oxidant and at least one healing factor chosen from hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and allantoin in association with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In addition, a method of topically treating wounds using at least one oxidant and at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant followed by illumination of said photosensitizer is disclosed. |
| US08632815B2 |
Process for nanoemulsification of curcumin and derivatives of curcumin
A process for nanomulsification of highly lipophillic polyphenols compounds using non-ionic surfactant and a non-ionic co-solvent with the help of sonar energy, to enhance the aqueous solubility is disclosed herein. |
| US08632810B2 |
Hydrocolloid composition
A therapeutic composition is described comprising a particulate dispersion of a hydrocolloid in a low water activity anti-microbial matrix. The composition may also contain any or all of a sequestrant, excipient, carrier and surfactant. The hydrocolloid may be naturally occurring, semisynthetic or synthetic. The invention extends to a method of producing a therapeutic composition. The composition is prepared by mixing a low water activity anti-microbial matrix with hydrocolloid particles at a temperature that will not cause degradation of the matrix. The method may also include the addition of other components such as excipients, sequestrants, carriers and surfactants and other agents. The invention extends to methods for treating a human or animal subject by applying or administering the composition to the subject subject in a therapeutically effective dose. |
| US08632809B2 |
Water insoluble polymer matrix for drug delivery
Disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition comprising (a) a bioerodible water insoluble polymer matrix comprising a polyester polymer, wherein the polymer matrix has a melting point of less than 60° C. and (b) an active agent dispersed within the polymer matrix, wherein the composition is formulated to controllably release the active agent for a pre -determined period of time to a target site. Also disclosed are methods of treating a disease or condition with the disclosed compositions. |
| US08632802B2 |
Device for transdermal administration of drugs including acrylic polymers
A transdermal delivery system is provided where the drug delivery rates, onset and profiles of at least one active agent are controlled by selectively manipulating the monomeric make up of an acrylic-based polymer in the transdermal drug delivery system. The drug carrier composition may be comprised of (a) one or more acrylic-based polymers having one or more different monomers selected from the group consisting of hard and soft monomers; (b) one or more silicone-based polymers; and (c) one or more active agents where the device provides a desired solubility for the active agent and controls drug delivery rates, onset and profiles of at least one active agent. |
| US08632797B2 |
Targeted delivery of therapeutic agents with lyophilized matrices
Embodiments of surgical grafts, and methods, for the delivery of therapeutic agents to a target tissue via acellular matrices, are described. In some embodiments, nonviable matrices are successful in preventing or lessening adhesion formation by guiding tissue repair and remodeling, while also providing the target tissue with therapeutic agents that can act as repair and remodeling factors. An exemplary method to modulate flexor tendon healing and provide elimination or reduction of fibrotic adhesions involves loading a freeze-dried flexor digitorum longus allograft with recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors for the targeted and transient expression of growth/differentiation factor 5 (GDF5). |
| US08632796B2 |
Calcium phosphate/sulfate-based bone implant composition
A bone implant composition, the composition comprising calcium sulphate and slowly soluble source of calcium, orthophosphate and hydroxyl ions. The composition may be provided in powder or granulated form. |
| US08632792B2 |
Cooling sensation agent composition and sensory stimulation agent composition
A cooling sensation agent composition with a prolonged cool sensation effect is provided comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of aceia or ketal derivatives of 3-(1-menthoxy)propan-1,2-diol represented by Formula (1), single or mixed carbonic esters ol one or two kinds ol alcohols represented by Formula (2), and carboxylic esters represented by Formula (4). A sensory stimulation agoni composition, a flavor or fragrance composition, a beverage or food product, a perfume or cosmetic product, a toiletry product, a daily utensil product or grocery, a fiber, a fiber product, a cloth or a medicine comprising the cooling sensation agent composition; a production method thereof; a cooling processing method of a fiber, fiber product or a cloth, comprising compounding the cooling sensation agent; and new compounds are also provided. |
| US08632786B2 |
Dose and localization of botulinum toxins in skin and muscle
A novel dosing regimen for the administration of botulinum toxin based on the pattern, quantity, and location of neuromuscular junctions in the target tissue. Because the number of neuromuscular junctions in a target tissue remains generally stable throughout life and because the pharmacological effect of botulinum toxin is localized at the neuromuscular junction, dosing efficacy is unaffected by muscle mass, age of the patient, or body weight. |
| US08632785B2 |
Clostridial toxin pharmaceutical composition containing a gelatin fragment
A botulinum toxin pharmaceutical formulation comprising a botulinum toxin and a low molecular weight recombinant or native gelatin fragment suitable for administration to a human patient, and methods for treating patients with various diseases and afflictions using the formulation. |
| US08632780B2 |
Human complement C3 derivates with cobra venom factor-like function
A modified human complement C3 protein (C3) is disclosed comprising a substitution of a portion of a human C3 protein, with a corresponding portion of a Cobra Venom Factor protein (CVF) which results in a human C3 protein with CVF functions, but with substantially reduced immunogenicity. Advantageously, the C3 protein can be manipulated to contain at least one of the following CVF functions: increased stability of the C3 convertase and increased resistance to the actions of factors H and/or I. A large number of hybrid C3 proteins containing substitutions in the C-terminal portion of the alpha chain of C3 are presented and tested for the above functions. Methods of treatment of diseases such as reperfusion injury, autoimmune diseases, and other diseases of increased complement activation are presented as well as methods of increasing the effectiveness of gene therapeutics and other therapeutics. |
| US08632777B2 |
Monoclonal antibodies and single chain antibody fragments against cell-surface prostate specific membrane antigen as diagnostic and therapeutic tools for prostate cancer
Isolated monoclonal antibodies or an antigen binding portion thereof which bind to prostate specific membrane antigen in its native form occurring on the surface of tumor cells characterized in that it is linked to a label or a cytotoxic agent or constructed as a part of a bispecific antibody or a recombinant diabody. |
| US08632775B2 |
Apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies
The present application relates to apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies, nucleic acid encoding the same, therapeutic compositions thereof, and their use in the treatment of IgE-mediated disorders. |
| US08632773B2 |
Antibody composition with altered Fab sialylation
The present invention relates to a population of antibodies enriched from an antibody preparation, wherein the enriched population of antibodies has an altered amount of sialylation in the Fab region of the antibodies as compared to the antibody preparation prior to enrichment. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of enriching a population of antibodies from an antibody preparation, wherein the enriched population of antibodies has an altered amount of sialylation in the Fab region of the antibodies as compared to the antibody preparation prior to enrichment. The present invention also relates to the population of antibodies of the invention for use in medicine, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the populations of antibodies of the invention and the use of the population of antibodies of the invention in the prevention and/or treatment of atherosclerosis, cancer and infections such as bacterial, viral or fungal infections. |
| US08632771B2 |
High molecular weight derivatives of vitamin K-dependent polypeptides
Modifications of vitamin K-dependent polypeptides that lead to enhanced protein function on a weight or molar basis and/or increase of protein lifetime in the circulation are described. Both objectives are important for using vitamin K-dependent polypeptides for pro- and anti-coagulation therapies, as well as for other uses in the circulation. |
| US08632766B2 |
Strain composition of the Lactobacillus genus and the application of strain composition of the Lactobacillus genus
A subject of the invention is a composition containing strains Lactobacillus fermentum 57A, Lactobacillus plantarum 57B and Lactobacillus gasseri 57C of special characteristics such as a feature of strong diversified affinity for the digestive tract and vaginal epithelia enabling the colonization of the vagina and anus after the crossover through intestines as well as the feature of co-aggregation enabling for synergetic activity. The subject of the invention is also the application of the composition for restoration of the natural bacterial flora of the vagina and anus. |
| US08632764B2 |
Directed evolution and in vivo panning of virus vectors
The present invention provides methods of achieving directed evolution of viruses by in vivo screening or “panning” to identify viruses comprising scrambled AAV capsids having characteristics of interest, e.g., tropism profile and/or neutralization profile (e.g., ability to evade neutralizing antibodies). The invention also provides scrambled AAV capsids and virus particles comprising the same. |
| US08632762B2 |
Hair conditioning composition
The present invention is a hair conditioning composition includes approximately 40,000 IU of Vitamin E oil from 2 fl. oz., approximately 2 fl. oz. of 100% pure Australian tea tree oil, approximately 4 fl. oz. of Jojoba oil, approximately 32 oz. of pure extra virgin organic coconut oil with 62 percent MCT's and approximately 4 fl. oz. of 100 percent cold pressed sweet almond oil. The hair conditioning composition also includes approximately 4 fl. oz. of 100 percent pure Vitamin E, approximately 16 fl. oz. of cold pressed paraben free hexane free castor oil, approximately 16 fl. oz. of 100 percent moisturizing sweet almond oil and a plurality of avocados and whole aloe Vera plants weighing approximately 10 pounds of 100 percent pure fresh cut whole grown aloe Vera fresh plants. |
| US08632761B2 |
Hair cosmetic
The present invention relates to a hair cosmetic composition including a surfactant and a cationized hydroxypropyl cellulose, wherein the cationized hydroxypropyl cellulose contains a main chain derived from an anhydroglucose represented by the following general formula (1) and has a cationized ethyleneoxy group substitution degree of from 0.01 to 2.5 and a propyleneoxy group substitution degree of from 0.1 to 2.8, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are each independently a substituent group including a cationized ethyleneoxy group and a propyleneoxy group; and n represents an average polymerization degree of the anhydroglucose and is a number of from 50 to 5000. The hair cosmetic composition of the present invention exhibits a less stickiness after use and is capable of imparting excellent run fingers through hair, coating feel and manageability to hair. |
| US08632760B2 |
Method of enhancing hair growth
Methods and compositions for stimulating the growth of hair are disclosed wherein said compositions include a cyclopentane heptanoic acid, 2-cycloalkyl or arylalkyl compound represented by the formula I wherein the dashed bonds represent a single or double bond which can be in the cis or trans configuration, A, B, Z, X, R1 and R2 are as defined in the specification. Such compositions are used in treating the skin or scalp of a human or non-human animal. Bimatoprost is preferred for this treatment. |
| US08632756B1 |
Antiperspirant compositions and methods for preparing antiperspirant compositions
Antiperspirant compositions are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, an antiperspirant composition includes an active antiperspirant compound and a structurant compound. The structurant compound includes a polyethylene having an average molecular weight of about 450 Daltons to about 580 Daltons and a polydispersity of greater than or equal to about 1.03. The polyethylene has a melting temperature of less than about 78° C. |
| US08632755B2 |
Consumer noticeable improvement in wetness protection
Antiperspirant compositions comprising: (a) from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight of the composition, of a high-efficacy antiperspirant active; (b) from about 0.1% to about 35% by weight of the composition, of a thickening agent; (c) from about 10% to about 99% by weight of the composition, of an anhydrous liquid carrier; (d) from about 5 ppm to about 20% by weight of the composition, of a primary fragrance; and (e) from at least about 5 ppm by weight of the composition, of a secondary fragrance that is distinct from the primary fragrance and is included in a surfactant-free, water-releasable matrix, which renders the secondary fragrance within the matrix substantially odorless prior to aqueous activation, wherein the antiperspirant composition is substantially devoid of a malodor reducing agent. |
| US08632750B2 |
Methods for recommending neurophysiological disorder therapy
Neurophysiologic information such as quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) is used in a method for classifying, diagnosing, and treating physiologic brain imbalances. Neurophysiologic information is also used to guide sample selection in clinical tests for psychopharmacologic drug candidates. Finally, neurophysiologic information is used for remotely assessing and treating patients with physiologic brain imbalances. |
| US08632749B2 |
Two photon tracer, method for the preparation thereof and the use thereof in screening anticancer agents
Disclosed herein are compounds useful as two-photon tracers. Also, methods are provided for visualizing intracellular glucose uptake, screening anticancer agents, and diagnosing cancer using the compounds. They exhibit preferential uptake by cancer cells, penetrability sufficient to allow bright section images, high water solubility, high pH resistance and low toxicity in addition to applicability to living cells in deep tissues over a long period of time. |
| US08632747B2 |
Method for producing sodium tungstate, method for collecting tungsten, apparatus for producing sodium tungstate, and method for producing sodium tungstate aqueous solution
Provided are a method for producing sodium tungstate by supplying an oxidant made of sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite to bring a tungsten containing material and the oxidant into contact with each other in an atmosphere containing oxygen to thereby continuously produce a reaction product; a method for collecting tungsten using the method; and an apparatus for producing sodium tungstate. Also provided are a method for producing a sodium tungstate aqueous solution in which a reductant is introduced into a melt containing the above-described reaction product which is then dissolved in water; and a method for collecting tungsten using the method. |
| US08632746B1 |
Process for the manufacturing of ferric sulfate from column oxidation of ferrous sulfate
A process for producing ferric sulfate has the steps of reacting iron and water and sulfuric acid within a digester so as to produce a blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate, forming a column having an interior volume and an upper end in which the column has inert random packing material therein, passing the blend of the ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate to the upper end of the column, introducing oxygen into the column at the upper end of the column, intimately mixing the oxygen with the blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate by gravity flowing the oxygen and the blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate downwardly through said random packing material in said column, and discharging the ferric sulfate from the interior volume of the column. |
| US08632743B2 |
Synthesis of carbon nitrides from carbon dioxide
Provided are methods of converting carbon dioxide to carbon nitrides. In a first reaction, carbon dioxide may be reacted with metal nitrides, such as Li3N, to form carbon nitrides in a fast and exothermic reaction. Also provided are methods of using product metal cyanamides from the first reaction to subsequently generate additional carbon nitrides. |
| US08632742B2 |
Methods of controlling mercury emission
Disclosed are methods for controlling, mercury emissions, and more particularly, to methods for controlling mercury re-emissions from a wet flue gas desulfurizer used in a combustion process. A method of controlling mercury re-emission from a combustion process includes measuring either mercury concentration, oxidation-reduction, potential (ORP), and/or sulfide concentration within a scrubber liquor of a wet flue gas desulpherizer (wFGD); correlating the mercury concentration, ORP, and /or sulfide concentration with an amount of mercury re-emission additive required in the scrubber liquor to reduce and/or prevent mercury re-emission to a selected level; and adjusting the rate of addition of mercury re-emission additive into the scrubber liquor to attain the selected level of mercury re-emission. |
| US08632739B2 |
Apparatus and methods for processing biological samples and a reservoir therefor
An apparatus for processing at least one biological sample accommodated on at least one carrier member (15) in a chamber includes, at least one reservoir (18) able to accommodate a fluid on a surface inside the chamber adjacent to and/or facing a substantial part of the at least one biological sample. The apparatus may comprise a bottom member (12) arranged to support at least one carrier member (15) carrying at least one biological sample and a lid (14) including at least one fluid reservoir (18). The reservoir filled with water provides humidity to the chamber and impedes drying out of the sample. |
| US08632736B2 |
Float and tube system for separating a suspension with an internal trap
This disclosure is directed to systems for separating a target analyte from a suspension. A suspension is added to a tube. A float is also added to the tube, and the tube, float, and suspension are centrifuged together, causing the constituent components of the suspension to separate into different layers along the axial length of the tube according to their specific gravities. The float has a specific gravity that positions the float at approximately the same level as a layer containing the target analyte, when the tube, float and sample are centrifuged. Prior to isolation, the material may be located between an outer surface of the float and an inner surface of the tube, or within a central bore that extends longitudinally through the float. The target analyte may then be drawn into a compartment within the float, thereby isolating the target analyte from the other suspension constituents. |
| US08632735B2 |
System and method for titrating liquids
A system for titrating liquids, with a syringe or tip, comprising a holding device and at least one tag and a metering equipment, comprising an additional holding device for holding the syringe or tip on the holding device, a reading device for reading the tag of the syringe or tip held by the additional holding device, a driving device having a motor, which is detachably coupled with a plunger of the syringe when the same is held by the additional holding device, or which is coupled with a plunger which is arranged in a cylinder which is coupled with the tip via a fluid conduit, when the same is held by the additional holding device, an operating device for operating the metering equipment and a control device, connected with the operating device, the reading device and the driving device, which controls the movement of the plunger depending of the tag of the inserted syringe or tip. |
| US08632733B2 |
Device and kit for collecting body fluids
The present invention provides for a device and a kit for collecting body fluids. The device includes a body fluid collection portion comprising a body fluid absorbing material. The body fluid connecting portion has a free edge and is hingedly connected at the edge opposite to the free edge to a first support panel and a second support panel. A base panel is hingedly connected to the first support panel or the second support panel. In a first folded condition the body fluid collection portion is sandwiched between the first support panel and the second support panel in a substantially face contacting relationship. The device for collecting body fluids is configured to be folded from the first folded condition into a second folded condition, wherein the body fluid collection portion is exposed so that by grasping the device for collecting body fluids by means of a handle formed by the first support panel, the second support panel and optionally the base panel the body fluid collection portion can be inserted into a sample container containing a body fluid to be sampled. Moreover, the device for collecting body fluids is configured to be folded from the second folded condition into a drying or triangle configuration, wherein the first support panel, the second support panel and the base panel form the three sides of a triangle such that the body fluid collection portion is suspended from its hinged connection with the first and second support panels and arranged within the space defined by the first and second support panels and the base panel. |
| US08632729B2 |
Fixed bed mixed gas/liquid phase reactor and mixed gas/liquid phase reaction process using the same
The present invention provides a fixed bed reactor for carrying out a mixed gas/liquid phase reaction, wherein the reactor has a piping structure composed of microchannels, the cross-sectional area of the fixed bed is 0.0001 cm2 to 0.008 cm2 and a single or parallely arranged two or more fixed beds, and the reactor has, in addition to the fixed beds, a gas phase distribution portion, a portion for introducing the gas phase to the fixed bed, a liquid phase distribution portion, a portion for introducing the liquid phase to the fixed bed, a packing material introduction portion and a fluid merging portion, a gas/liquid mixed phase reaction process for carrying out a gas/liquid mixed phase reaction using the fixed bed reactor described above, and further a process for producing hydrogen peroxide in which the reaction is started and stopped in a reducing atmosphere, and the present invention further provides a novel fixed bed gas/liquid mixed phase reactor which makes it possible to carry out gas/liquid mixed phase reactions stably and under steady state conditions by using microchannels. |
| US08632728B2 |
Ultraviolet sterilizer for water pipe and water way type
An ultraviolet ray sterilizer for a water pipe and a waterway featuring a plurality of circular flow ways that are formed, and an ultraviolet lamp is provided at the center of the flow ways, thus removing a sterilization dead zone where sterilization is not performed. |
| US08632723B2 |
Manufacturing method for preferentially-oriented oxide ceramics, preferentially-oriented oxide ceramics, piezoelectric element, liquid discharge head, ultrasonic motor, and dust removing device
Provided is a manufacturing method for preferentially-oriented oxide ceramics having a high degree of crystal orientation. The manufacturing method includes: obtaining slurry containing an oxide crystal B having magnetic anisotropy; applying a magnetic field to the oxide crystal B, and obtaining a compact of the oxide crystal B; and subjecting the compact to oxidation treatment to obtain preferentially-oriented oxide ceramics including a compact of an oxide crystal C having a crystal system that is different from a crystal system of one of a part and a whole of the oxide crystal B. By (1) reacting raw materials, (2) reducing the oxide crystal A, or (3) keeping the oxide crystal A at high temperature and quenching the oxide crystal A, the oxide crystal B is obtained to be used in the slurry. |
| US08632721B2 |
Electrospinning in a controlled gaseous environment
Apparatus and method for producing fibrous materials in which the apparatus includes an extrusion element configured to electrospin a substance from which the fibers are to be composed by an electric field extraction of the substance from a tip of the extrusion element, a collector disposed from the extrusion element and configured to collect the fibers, a chamber enclosing the collector and the extrusion element, and a control mechanism configured to control a gaseous environment in which the fibers are to be electrospun. The apparatus and method provide a way to produce a fiber collection having a plurality of nanofibers disposed in relation to each other. The nanofibers in the fiber collection are preferentially oriented along a longitudinal axis of the fiber collection. |
| US08632718B2 |
Method for forming tapered products
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for forming molded tapered products, such as masonry blocks, whereby high quality finished products are removed from their mold without the need for complex machinery for demolding. The mold may include one or more mold cavities having one or more movable cavity walls. The movable cavity walls may include an end liner having a planar product forming surface capable of moving from a vertical position to an angled position. Tapered products may be formed by moving the mold towards a pallet so that the pallet engages with the end liner and causes the end liner to move from the vertical position to the angled position. Moldable material may then be introduced into the mold cavity and may be allowed to remain in the mold cavity until it is self-sustaining. |
| US08632714B2 |
Mold structures, and method of transfer of fine structures
A mold and a pattern transfer method using the same for a nanoprinting technology. The mold can be released from a substrate accurately and easily. The mold, which is used for forming a fine pattern on a substrate using a press machine, comprises a release mechanism. |
| US08632705B2 |
Method for preparing a porous nuclear fuel based on at least one minor actinide
A method for manufacturing a porous fuel comprising uranium, optionally plutonium and at least one minor actinide is provided. The method may comprise the following successive steps: a) a step for compacting as pellets a mixture of powders comprising uranium oxide, optionally plutonium oxide and at least one oxide of a minor actinide, at least one portion of the uranium oxide being in the form of triuranium octaoxide U3O8, the other portion being in the form of uranium dioxide UO2; b) a step for reducing at least one portion of the triuranium octaoxide U3O8 into uranium dioxide UO2. |
| US08632701B2 |
Proton conductive hybrid material, and catalyst layer for fuel cell using the same
This invention provides an organic-inorganic hybrid material, which can exhibit high proton conductivity in a wide temperature range of a low temperature to a high temperature, a proton conductive material, which has a small particle diameter, that is, has a particle diameter capable of reaching pores of primary particles of carbon powder or the like, and has controlled particle diameters, a catalyst layer containing these materials for a fuel cell and an electrolyte film containing these materials for a fuel cell, and a fuel cell. The proton conductive hybrid material comprises proton conductive inorganic nanoparticles and a proton conductive polymer, wherein the Stokes particle diameter of the proton conductive hybrid material by dynamic light scattering is not more than 20 nm. |
| US08632699B2 |
Fugitive viscosity and stability modifiers for carbon nanotube compositions
The invention is directed to carbon nanotube-containing compositions that have increased viscosity and stability. In particular, the invention is directed to methods for manufacturing carbon nanotube films and layers that provide superior electrical properties. |
| US08632693B2 |
Wetting agent for semiconductors, and polishing composition and polishing method employing it
To provide a wetting agent for semiconductors and a polishing composition whereby the wettability of a semiconductor substrate surface can be improved, and microdefects such as particle attachments can be remarkably reduced.A wetting agent for semiconductors, comprising a water soluble polymer compound having a low viscosity and water, and a polishing composition. A 0.3 wt % aqueous solution of the water soluble polymer compound has a viscosity of less than 10 mPa·s at 25° C. |
| US08632691B2 |
Interface treatment method for germanium-based device
Disclosed herein is an interface treatment method for germanium-based device, which belongs to the field of manufacturing technologies of ultra large scaled integrated (ULSI) circuits. In the method, the natural oxide layer on the surface of the germanium-based substrate is removed by using a concentrated hydrochloric acid solution having a mass percentage concentration of 15%˜36%, and dangling bonds of the surface are performed a passivation treatment by using a diluted hydrochloric acid solution having a mass percentage concentration of 5%˜10% so as to form a stable passivation layer on the surface. This method makes a good foundation for depositing a high-K (high dielectric constant) gate dielectric on the surface of the germanium-based substrate after cleaning and passivating, enhances quality of the interface between the gate dielectric and the substrate, and improves the electrical performance of germanium-based MOS device. |
| US08632689B2 |
Temperature control with stacked proportioning valve
A stacked proportioning valve having a body with at least two sets of ports disposed at different positions along a longitudinal length of the body, each set of ports including at least three ports at different angular positions to couple to fluid conduits, a rotor disposed in the valve body has at least two sections stacked along the longitudinal length, each section comprising three fluid channels in longitudinal alignment with one of the sets of ports, and a drive shaft affixed to the rotor, the drive shaft to rotate the rotor over angular positions to fluidly couple together pairs of ports in each of the sets of ports synchronously as a function of the rotor's angular position. In embodiments a component of a plasma processing chamber, such as a plasma etch chamber is fluidly coupled by the stack proportioning valve to reservoirs of both a hot and cold chiller. |
| US08632687B2 |
Method for electron beam induced etching of layers contaminated with gallium
The invention relates to a method for electron beam induced etching of a layer contaminated with gallium, with the method steps of providing at least one first halogenated compound as an etching gas at the position at which an electron beam impacts on the layer, and providing at least one second halogenated compound as a precursor gas for removing of the gallium from this position. |
| US08632684B2 |
Device for separating ferromagnetic particles from a suspension
A device for separating ferromagnetic particles from a suspension has a reactor (2) through which the suspension can flow, with at least one magnet (3, 4) arranged on the outside of the reactor (2), wherein the reactor (2) has an interior space (7) and an exterior space (8) surrounding the former, wherein the interior space (7) and exterior space (8) are separated from one another by an insert (6), and the insert (6) has at least one opening (9, 10) near the at least one magnet (3, 4). |
| US08632683B2 |
Parenteral administration of pyrophosphate for prevention or treatment of phosphate or pyrophosphate depletion
A pharmaceutical composition for therapeutic administration of pyrophosphate for phosphate repletion may be in either liquid or solid form and may be usable as or usable for preparing a hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis solution containing a pyrophosphate compound present in an amount that provides a concentration in the dialysis solution equivalent to an inorganic phosphorus concentration of at least 0.5 mg per deciliter. |
| US08632682B2 |
Method and apparatus for repositioning flow elements in a tapered flow structure
A method for operating a tapered flow pressure driven arrangement containing a plurality of membrane modules, which comprises positioning said membrane modules in at least two successively arranged flow stages, such that the number of membrane modules operating in parallel in a given flow stage is greater than their number in the consecutive flow stage, passing a feed stream through a flow stage to generate a permeate and a concentrate, directing said concentrate to the consecutive flow stage and passing said concentrate therethrough, while periodically replacing one or more of the membrane modules belonging to said consecutive flow stage with one or more membrane modules belonging to the previous flow stage, wherein the periodicity of said replacement is such that the surface of membranes disposed in said consecutive flow stage is exposed to super-saturation conditions associated with the passage of said concentrate for a period of time that is shorter than the time required for said concentrate to precipitate therefrom one or more sparingly soluble salts and/or minerals, onto the surface of the membranes in said consecutive flow stage under said super-saturation conditions, or before deposit of organic substances can occur in the first of said two or more successively arranged flow stages. An apparatus for carrying out the aforementioned method is also provided. |
| US08632678B2 |
Filter apparatus and method of removing organic waste
A filtration apparatus including an annular filter surrounding a waste treatment chamber, a first turbine drawing liquid up within the chamber and a second turbine driving liquid outwardly through the filter. In the method of treating organic waste, the chamber includes an ultraviolet lamp and a cylindrical baffle surrounding the chamber having a mirrored surface. The disclosed apparatus further includes anodic and cathodic plates surrounding the filter. |
| US08632677B2 |
Aquarium bottom cleaner system
An aquarium cleaner system for cleaning the bottom surface of an aquarium. The system has a suction means with a suction body. The suction body has an open enlarged lower end, an open upper end and a propeller system. There is also a filter with an opening fluidly connected to the open upper end of the suction body, an impurities entrapment surface and a fluid return surface. There is further provided a controller for turning on or off the suction means according to a preprogrammed schedule and a random position effecter, such that when a new cleaning position is desired, the suction means is terminated for a first predetermined duration so that the suction body causes the aquarium bottom cleaner to rise from the current cleaning position before turning on the suction means for a second predetermined duration. |
| US08632676B2 |
Liquid filter assembly; components; and methods
A liquid filter assembly is provided. The preferred assembly includes a serviceable filter cartridge having a primary filter section and a secondary or bypass filter section. The preferred assembly includes a bypass valve arrangement and a suction filter arrangement. A valve, to allow flow from an interior of the assembly to a reservoir if needed, is provided. Preferred serviceable filter cartridges are shown. |
| US08632671B2 |
Method for measuring carbon nanotubes taken-up by a plurality of living cells
The present invention provides methods, apparatuses and kits for determining the presence and the concentration of nanoparticles in a given area, solution or region via cellular uptake and/or adsorption monitored through laboratory equipment. For example, the present invention provides a method of quantifying one or more nanoparticles by incubating a nanoparticle solution comprising one or more nanoparticles with one or more cells; isolating the one or more cells; lysing the one or more cells to release a cell lysate; separating the cell lysate electrophoretically on a gel; digitizing the gel to form a gel image; quantifying the nanoparticle intensity in the gel image; and correlating the nanoparticle intensity to a cell-associated nanoparticle concentration. |
| US08632668B2 |
Deterioration signal generation device for oxygen sensor
A deterioration signal generation device for an oxygen sensor having a power supply different than a power supply connected to an external device, including a connection unit for electrically connecting the ground lines of the respective power supplies; a first acquisition unit for electrically connecting to a first output line at a reference potential side and to a second output line at a sensor potential side of the oxygen sensor, to obtain first and second potentials, respectively; an operation unit that calculates a first differential value between the first and second potentials; a processing unit that performs an operation on the first differential value; a second acquisition unit that acquires a third potential of a first input line at a reference potential side of the external device; and an output unit that generates the deterioration signal by superposing the second differential value on the third potential. |
| US08632667B2 |
Deterioration signal generation device for oxygen sensor
A deterioration signal generation device for an oxygen sensor having a power supply different than a power supply connected to an external device, including a connection unit for electrically connecting the ground lines of the respective power supplies; a first acquisition unit for electrically connecting to a first output line at a reference potential side and to a second output line at a sensor potential side of the oxygen sensor, to obtain first and second potentials, respectively; an operation unit that calculates a first differential value between the first and second potentials; a processing unit that performs an operation on the first differential value; a second acquisition unit that acquires a third potential of a first input line at a reference potential side of the external device; and an output unit that generates the deterioration signal by superposing the second differential value on the third potential. |
| US08632664B2 |
Test meter for use with a dual chamber, multi-analyte test strip with opposing electrodes
A test meter for use with a dual-chamber, multi-analyte test strip includes a test strip receiving module and a signal processing module. The test strip receiving module has a first electrical connector configured for contacting a first analyte contact pad of a first working electrode of the test strip; a second electrical connector configured for contacting a second analyte contact pad of a second working electrode of the test strip, a third electrical connector configured for contacting a first counter/reference contact pad of a first counter/reference electrode layer of the test strip, and a fourth electrical connector configured for contacting a second counter/reference contact pad of a second counter/reference electrode layer of the test strip. The signal processing module is configured to receive a first signal via the first electrical connector and the third electrical connector and employ the first signal for the determination of a first analyte (such as glucose) in a bodily fluid sample (for example, whole blood sample) applied to the dual-chamber, multi-analyte test strip. Moreover, the signal processing module is also configured to receive a second signal via the second electrical connector and fourth electrical connector and employ the second signal for the determination of a second analyte (e.g., a ketone analyte) in the bodily fluid sample applied to the dual-chamber, multi-analyte test strip. Furthermore, the third and fourth electrical contacts provide contact in an opposing manner. |
| US08632662B2 |
Apparatus and method for stabilization of a moving sheet relative to a sensor
A sheet of material is received at a sensor assembly, which includes a sensor operable to measure a property of the sheet. An air flow is generated that is substantially tangential to the sheet in order to at least partially control a position of the sheet relative to the sensor assembly. For example, the sheet may be associated with an upstream boundary layer of air and a downstream boundary layer of air. At least part of the air from the upstream boundary layer could be removed and used to provide an air flow forming at least part of the downstream boundary layer. Also, the air flow could be provided between a surface of the sensor assembly and the sheet to at least partially control a distance of the sheet from the surface of the sensor assembly and/or an angle at which the sheet passes the surface of the sensor assembly. |
| US08632657B2 |
Method for treating liquid flows at a chemical pulp mill
A method for treating liquid flows at a chemical pulp mill including at least an alkaline cooking process for producing pulp, treatment of brown stock generated in the cooking, a bleaching plant using ECF-bleaching, in which chloride-containing effluents are formed, an effluent purification plant for treating bleaching plant effluents and other effluents generated at the mill. At least a portion of the effluents is returned after the purification to the pulp production line as source of process water. More than one treatment line is arranged at the effluent purification plant for the mill effluents and effluents with different chemical compositions are purified in separate treatment lines so that the quality and amount of purified water from each treatment line is suitable for use in a stage or stages of the production process, whereto purified effluent is returned. |
| US08632656B2 |
Method for treating liquid flows at a chemical pulp mill
A method for treating liquid flows at a chemical pulp mill including at least an alkaline cooking process for producing pulp, brown stock treatment with essentially closed liquid cycles, a pulp bleaching plant using ECF-bleaching, a chemical recovery plant comprising a chemical recovery boiler, and effluent purification. Chloride-containing bleaching plant effluents are led to the effluent purification, where they are treated in order to decrease the organic matter content thereof. At least 20% of the purified effluent is returned to a pulp mill process and purified effluent is used in a last washing stage included in brown stock treatment. In the brown stock treatment the liquid flow is passed counter-currently to evaporation, wherefrom it is led for treatment to a recovery boiler process, wherein a separation process for chlorides is arranged for controlling the chloride level of the liquor cycle. |
| US08632655B2 |
Method in connection with the washing of pulp at a chemical pulp mill
A method in connection with washing of pulp at a chemical pulp mill including at least an alkaline cooking process utilizing cooking liquor for producing pulp, brown stock treatment with essentially closed liquid cycles, in which the last washing device is a washing device based on pressing of pulp, a press or a washing press, a pulp bleaching plant using ECF-bleaching, wherein chloride-containing effluents are formed, a chemical recovery plant and effluent purification. The liquid flows generated at a chemical pulp mill are efficiently circulated without disturbing the main process and minimizing the emissions from the mill. Purified effluent in the amount of at least 1 m3/adt pulp is introduced into the dilution after the press or washing press, whereby the effluent is passed from the dilution into the first process stage of the bleaching. |
| US08632653B2 |
Method of manufacturing curved composite structural elements
A method of manufacturing curved composite structural elements can include fabricating a web ply in a flat curve over a removable substrate and laying up the ply on a curved web surface of a manufacturing tool. The method also can include laying up a diagonal ply with fibers oriented at +/−45° from the centerline of the web surface. The method further can include cutting a unidirectional composite tape into segments and laying up the tape segments to form a cross ply with a fiber orientation normal to the centerline of the web surface. One or both edges of the diagonal and cross plies may be folded over one or two sides of the manufacturing tool to form one or two flange surfaces. Additionally, a cap ply can be laid up on one or both flange surfaces using composite tape. The structural element layup can then be inspected and any excess composite material can be trimmed away. |
| US08632652B2 |
Method for manufacturing separator, separator manufactured therefrom and method for manufacturing electrochemical device having the same
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a separator for an electrochemical device. The method contributes to formation of a separator with good bondability to electrodes and prevents inorganic particles from detaching during an assembling process of an electrochemical device. |
| US08632651B1 |
Plasma surface treatment of composites for bonding
A method for bonding composites together that is fast and effective, and can be applied to any structure regardless of its size and shape, and its related product are disclosed. The method comprises first subjecting at least a part of a composite work piece to a low-temperature, atmospheric pressure plasma, wherein the reactive gas from the plasma is projected out of the device and onto the surface of the composite work piece, then applying an adhesive to the surface of the treated composite work piece, and joining the composite work piece together with a second work piece. The adhesive may be cured such that it forms a strong, permanent bond. The atmospheric plasma delivery device may be translated over the composite surface by hand or with a robot. The plasma device may be self-contained and portable, and can be moved to a location that is convenient for treating the composites. |
| US08632650B2 |
V-ribbed belt and method for manufacturing same
A V-ribbed belt that includes a ribbed surface covered with fabric is provided. The fabric is stretchable in two predetermined directions. A method for manufacturing the V-ribbed belt is also provided. The method includes placing a belt matrix about a mandrel, placing a fabric about the external circumference of the belt matrix which wraps around the mandrel, placing the mandrel inside a shell having a plurality of grooves on the internal circumference, expanding the belt matrix and the fabric toward the internal circumference of the shell and thus pressing the fabric onto the internal circumference having the multi-ribbed structure, and curing the belt matrix with the fabric. The fabric is stretchable to accommodate itself to the multi-ribbed structure. |
| US08632649B2 |
Method of fabricating pneumatic tire and pneumatic tire
An object is to reduce a cycle time for fabricating a low rolling resistance pneumatic tire and to provide the same pneumatic tire. As a means therefor, in building a tread portion by winding spirally a rubber strip material whose cross section is divided into a first region made of a conductive rubber and a second region made of a non-conductive rubber in a tire circumferential direction in a partially overlapping fashion by the use of an extruding machine which extrudes continuously the rubber strip material, an area ratio of the first region relative to the cross section of the rubber strip material is made to change in a tire width direction. |
| US08632646B2 |
Method for joining pipes and junction structure for joining pipes
A method for joining pipes in which a first pipe in which at least one portion to be engaged is sunk inward to an inner circumferential surface side provided in an outer circumferential surface of an end portion of the first pipe, and a second pipe made of thermoplastic resin are joined together. The method includes: inserting an end portion of the first pipe into an end portion of the second pipe; and as a result of a component that transmits ultrasonic waves against an outer circumferential surface of the second pipe that corresponds to the portion to be engaged of the inserted first pipe, softening the second pipe by the ultrasonic waves so that an engaging portion is formed which is made to protrude into the portion to be engaged and is positioned on the inner circumferential surface of the first pipe. |
| US08632645B2 |
Manufacturing method and manufacturing apparatus of insulation cap
A manufacturing method of an insulation cap, includes the steps of: supplying an elongated tube from a tube supplying unit to a tube placing table; moving a tube press-fastening portion and a welding body portion towards the tube placing table so as to press-fasten a press-fastening position of the tube placed on the tube placing table and to press-contact a press-contacting position of the tube placed on the tube placing table; performing a welding process with respect to the press-contacting position of the tube; moving the tube placing table during the welding process to feed the tube in a tube feeding direction by a specified amount; blanking the tube subjected to the welding process after feeding the tube to form the insulation cap; and discharging the formed insulation cap from a blanking position. |
| US08632641B2 |
High-alloy cold work die steel
The present invention encloses a kind of the high-alloy cold work die steel wherein the steel in wt % consisting of: C 1.0˜2.5, Si≦1.3, Mn≦1.5, Cr 6.0˜15.0, V≦2.5, B 0.01˜0.4, and the balance is Fe with unavoidable impurities. The hardness and toughness of the die steel of the present invention are the same as Cr12MoV or Cr12Mo1V1, and even exceed them. And, the steel does not contain Mo with high price, the cost is lower than Cr12MoV or Cr12Mo1V1 accordingly, and the die steel of the present invention has a longer usage life, which is specially applied to make cold work moulds with high accuracy and long use life. |
| US08632640B2 |
Dishwasher
The present invention relates to a dish-washer (1) having a single push-button (3) which is utilized by the user to select all of the programs. |
| US08632638B2 |
Method for cleaning deposits from an engine fuel delivery system
Disclosed is a method for cleaning deposits from one or more parts of an engine fuel delivery system, the method comprising introducing into the engine fuel delivery system a cleaning composition comprising (a) one or more aromatic hydrocarbon solvents; and (b) one or more propylene glycol ethers. |
| US08632636B1 |
Wet wiper articles and methods for cleaning removable dental appliances
A wet wiper for cleaning accumulated oral debris from removable dental appliances. The wet wiper comprises a water insoluble substrate and a physiologically acceptable cleansing composition. Methods for cleaning removable dental appliances are also provided, such methods comprising the step of contacting, for a time sufficient to reduce oral debris, the removable dental appliances, with a wet wiper of the present invention. |
| US08632635B2 |
Vapor deposition apparatus and vapor deposition method
A vapor deposition apparatus includes a linear head including a plurality of nozzles, and an angle controller controlling an inclined angle of the linear head. The angle of inclination of the linear head can be varied so as to position different portions of the linear head at different distances from the surface of a substrate. |
| US08632630B2 |
Thermal ink jet ink composition
A thermal ink jet ink composition includes one or more volatile organic solvents, wherein the one or more volatile organic solvents are selected from C1-C4 alcohols, C3-C6 ketones, C3-C6 esters, C4-C8 ethers, and mixtures thereof; one or more humectants, wherein the humectants are present in an amount not more than 30% by weight of the ink composition; one or more binder resins; and one or more dyes. The ink composition is suitable for use in a thermal ink jet printer and the ink composition has a slow rate of kogation such that it is capable of being printed at least 10 million drops per nozzle from the thermal ink jet printer before drop weight of the ink composition is reduced by more than 10%. |
| US08632629B2 |
Water-based ink set for ink-jet recording, ink-jet recording method, and ink-jet recording apparatus
A water-based ink set for ink jet recording, includes: a water-based black ink which contains a black colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent, the black colorant containing self-dispersible carbon black; and a water-based magenta ink which contains a magenta colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent, the magenta colorant containing a dye represented by the general formula (1); wherein the water-soluble organic solvent includes a penetrant of which amount is 0.5% by weight to 3.5% by weight of the water-based magenta ink. |
| US08632626B2 |
System and method for processing flue gas
A system and System for removing CO2 from an input gas stream. The system comprises a carboniser segment configured such that a solid sorbent reacts therein with the input gas stream to remove CO2 from the input gas stream; a calciner segment configured such that the solid sorbent from the carboniser segment reacts therein to release the CO2 into a substantially pure gas stream; a heat exchanger unit for exchanging heat between the carboniser and calciner segments; a first conditioning unit for controlling a CO2 partial pressure in the carboniser segment; and a second conditioning unit for controlling a CO2 partial pressure in the calciner segment; wherein the first and second conditioning units are configured such that a difference between the CO2 partial pressures in the carboniser and calciner segments respectively is controlled such that heat is provided from the carboniser to the calciner through the heat exchanging unit. |
| US08632625B2 |
Method and apparatus for liberating gases from drilling fluid
A gas trap includes a sample enclosure, a bubbler enclosure, an agitator, and a brushless, DC motor. The sample enclosure has a liquid inlet, a gas sample outlet, and a sample enclosure wall with a sample enclosure wall portion and a shared wall portion. The bubbler enclosure has a bubbler air inlet, a bubbler air outlet, and a bubbler enclosure wall with a bubbler enclosure wall portion and the shared wall portion. The sample and bubbler enclosures are fluidly coupled through the shared wall portion so that sufficiently pressurized bubbler air entering through the bubbler air inlet maintains the drilling fluid in the sample enclosure at a level determined by the location of the bubbler air outlet when the liquid inlet and the bubbler air outlet are both submerged in the drilling fluid. |
| US08632624B2 |
Fluid trap and method of separating fluids
A fluid trap apparatus includes an inlet configured to receive a flow of composite fluid into the apparatus. The composite fluid contains at least a first fluid and a second fluid. An outer wall defines an interior chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed within the interior chamber. The flow diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid to circulate through the interior chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid separate as the composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber. A method of separating a first fluid from a second fluid includes introducing a flow of composite fluid into a separate chamber. A pressure gradient is created within the separation chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed in a flow path between an inlet and an outlet. The flow diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid within the separation chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid are separated. |
| US08632619B2 |
Filter element, in particular for filtering exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine
A filter element, in particular for filtering exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine, includes mutually parallel flow channels, at least two filter segments being provided which each have a subset of flow channels, the filter segments having a spacing from one another and being interconnected via connecting device(s) arranged integrally with the filter segments. |
| US08632611B2 |
Hair colouring methods and compositions thereof
The present invention relates to a method for coloring hair wherein a hair coloring composition is applied to the hair roots. The hair coloring composition is then diluted with a dilutant component and the diluted hair coloring composition is applied to the hair lengths and tips. |
| US08632608B2 |
Treatment of bioprosthetic tissues to mitigate post implantation calcification
Bioprosthetic tissues are treated by immersing or otherwise contacting fixed, unfixed or partially fixed tissue with a glutaraldehyde solution that has previously been heat-treated or pH adjusted prior to its contact with the tissue. The prior heat treating or pH adjustment of the glutaraldehyde solution causes its free aldehyde concentration to decrease by about 25% or more, preferably by as much as 50%, and allows a “stabilized” glutaraldehyde solution to be obtained at the desired concentration and pH for an optimal fixation of the tissue at high or low temperature. This treatment results in a decrease in the tissue's propensity to calcify after being implanted within the body of a human or animal patient. |
| US08632607B2 |
Strapless prosthetic arm
Permanent magnets or electromagnets or a combination of such magnets are provided to retain a prosthetic device on an extremity or limb, such as an amputated arm. The prosthesis utilizes the opposing forces, which are developed by virtue of like magnetic poles being in proximity to each other, to urge the prosthesis to remain attached to the extremity. The prosthesis is prevented from rotation by virtue of a centering force that is provided by an attachment magnet in the prosthesis being placed between two implanted magnets. A removable mounting ring is placed over the prosthesis to maintain it on the extremity. |
| US08632605B2 |
Elongated lung volume reduction devices, methods, and systems
A lung volume reduction system is disclosed comprising an elongate implantable device adapted to be delivered to a lung airway of a patient in a delivery configuration and to change to a deployed configuration to compress lung tissue. The implant may be longer in axial length than an axial length of the target axial region in which it is deployed. Deployment may involve allowing an end of the implant to move relative to surrounding tissue while the implant is progressively deployed. |
| US08632604B2 |
Medical implant device
A medical implant device comprises a substrate (10) having an undulating surface provided by peaks (12) which are separated by recesses (14). The device includes a porous coating layer provided on the undulating surface of the substrate which comprises a plurality of particles (16). The spacing between adjacent peaks on the surface of the substrate is less than the particle size of the particles. The particles are bonded to the peaks on the surface of the substrate and adjacent particles are bonded to one another. |
| US08632601B2 |
Implant
The invention relates to an implant for relieving damaged areas of the surfaces of hip or shoulder joints from stress. Said implant can be introduced into the space between the joint surfaces of the condyle and the socket cooperating in the natural joint. The inventive implant is cup-shaped or cap-shaped, rests in the socket by a convex external face, and sits on the condyle by a concave internal face in the implanted state. The implant comprises at least two articulation layers which are movable relative to each other and encompass articulation surfaces that face one another in the implanted state. |
| US08632600B2 |
Prosthesis with modular extensions
A joint prosthesis system has two implant components and a bearing. One of the implant components has an articulation surface for articulation with the bearing. The other implant component has a mounting surface for supporting the bearing. At least one of the first and second components includes a recess and a stud in the recess. The joint prosthesis also includes an extension mounted on the stud and extending out from the bone-engaging surface to an end. Part of the extension is received in the recess. |
| US08632599B1 |
Knee prosthesis system with side-mounted augments
A modular knee prosthesis system comprises a distal femoral articulation component, a distal augment, a posterior augment and a first connector for securing at least one of the augments to the distal femoral articulation component through a bore in the augment and an opening in the distal femoral articulation component. The distal femoral articulation component has a distal bone-facing surface, a posterior bone-facing surface and an opening. The openings into the bores of the augments are in the medial or lateral side surface of the augment. Both augments can be mounted and removed from the distal femoral articulation component from either the medial or lateral side. |
| US08632594B2 |
Intervertebral device and method of use
An intervertebral disc replacement device is disclosed and includes a first implantable member having a first anchor plate and a concave body detachably coupled to the first anchor plate, and a second implantable member having a second anchor plate and a convex body detachably coupled to the second anchor plate, the convex body configured to engage the concave body in movable relation thereto. |
| US08632593B2 |
Stabilizing vertebrae with expandable spacers
A spinal distracter and stabilizer has resilient, conformable bone contacting sections which are separated by an expandable chamber that extends from one of the sections, and which forms a ratchet with the section, ensuring that once expanded by being filled with a substance, cannot contract absent intervention by a medical practitioner. The stabilizer may be filled with a material which solidifies, after which some or all of the device may biodegrade. The device may also be provided in separable portions to facilitate implantation. The conformable sections distribute the distraction and stabilizing force evenly over the bone surface, reducing the incidence of disruption to the integrity of the bone. |
| US08632591B2 |
Nucleus prostheses
An nucleus prosthesis is disclosed having a plurality of linked segments configured to form, in a closed position, a disc shape. A method includes inserting a plurality of linked segments into an annulus fibrosus and closing the prosthesis so that a first segment inserted into the annulus fibrosus and a last segment inserted into the annulus fibrosus are substantially abutted. Another method includes inserting a plurality of linked segments into an intervertebral disc space and closing the prosthesis so that a first segment inserted into the intervertebral disc space and a last segment inserted into the intervertebral disc space are substantially abutted. |
| US08632584B2 |
Medical implant having a curlable matrix structure and method of use
A medical implant, having a proximal and a distal end, that is preformed to assume a superimposed structure at an implantation site but can be made to take on a volume-reduced form making it possible to introduce it by means of a micro-catheter and a guide wire arranged at the proximal end, with the implant in its superimposed structure assuming the form of a longitudinally open tube and having a mesh structure of interconnected strings or filaments. The implant has a tapering structure at its proximal end where the strings or filaments converge at a connection point. |
| US08632582B2 |
Removable and/or retrievable stents and kits
Stents, kits and methods of using the stents are described herein. The stents may include one or more features that assist in removal and/or retrieval of the stent after deployment. |
| US08632581B2 |
Conformable end sealing stent
Conformable end sealing stent for treating aortic aneurysms with acute angulation having an end portion with a circumference and configured to exert a radial force against an inner wall of the aorta, said end portion comprised of one or more filaments formed into at least three intertwined curved loops, each loop having a first and second end and a curved section which curved section is shaped and sized to extend at least halfway around the circumference. |
| US08632579B2 |
Bifurcated stent and delivery system
Systems for delivering a bifurcated stent to a bifurcation site include catheters and/or bifurcated systems delivered therefrom. A catheter includes a balloon with a bulge region that allows a portion of the stent to be expanded. |
| US08632578B2 |
System for providing heat treatment and heat loss reduction for treating meibomian gland dysfunction
A system for treating meibomian gland dysfunction comprising a heating element that applies heat to the tissue proximate the patient's meibomian glands to provide conductive heat transfer to the meibomian glands, which assists in the expression of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands to restore sufficient sebum flow to the lipid layer to treat dry eye. A force application device may also apply force to tissue proximate the patient's meibomian glands during the application of heat to improve conductive heat transfer and reduce blood flow in tissue that causes convective heat loss, and to help express obstructions from the meibomian gland, including from a channel of the meibomian gland, with reduced discomfort to the patient. Reaching increased temperature levels may improve the melting, loosening, or softening of obstructions or occlusions in the meibomian glands. |
| US08632575B2 |
Low profile fastening assembly
In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fastener assembly that can be used for the fixation or anchoring of orthopedic devices or instruments to bone tissue. In particular, the present invention preferably provides a low profile variable angle or fixed angle fastener assembly that is able to securely connect the orthopedic device to bone tissue. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides a fastener assembly having a locking mechanism that will quickly and easily lock the fastener assembly with respect to the orthopedic device. |
| US08632574B2 |
Reduced component bone plating system
An orthopedic screw system includes a screw with a locking head that can both lockingly engage in a fixed angle threaded screw hole to secure a plate to a bone without compression, and non-lockingly engage at a compression screw hole to provide compression between the plate and the bone. The structure of the system is particularly well adapted to plates and screw of small dimensions, such as screws smaller than 3.5 mm and is capable of providing high compressive force, on the order of 120 lbs of axial load, without significant plastic deformation between the screw and plate. |
| US08632568B2 |
Suture anchor having a suture engaging structure and inserter arrangement
A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed from suture, which structure cooperates with working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor. |
| US08632562B2 |
Embolic protection device
An embolic protection device for deployment in a body vessel is provided for filtering emboli within the body vessel. The embolic protection device generally includes a filter having a plurality of openings formed therethrough and an extraction element configured to be movable with respect to the filter between a non-extraction position and an extraction position. The extraction element is located distally of the filter when in the non-extraction position so as to allow the filter to open into an expanded state to collect the emboli. Additionally, the extraction element is disposed about at least a portion of the filter when in the extraction position so as to close the filter into a collapsed state and to permit the embolic protection device to be extracted from the body vessel. |
| US08632558B2 |
Systems and methods for removal of intravascular leads
Systems and methods for extraction of implanted articles are disclosed. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a system for extraction of an implanted article that includes an elongated member, guide member disposed at a distal section of the elongated member and having a pathway in substantially parallel relationship to the elongated member, through which pathway an implanted article can be accommodated, and a cutting mechanism, situated between the distal section of the elongated member and the guide member, for severing a fibrous adhesion about the implanted article to allow the implanted article to be extracted. |
| US08632557B2 |
Rotational atherectomy device and method to improve abrading efficiency
The invention provides a rotational atherectomy system, device and method having, in various embodiments, a flexible, elongated, rotatable drive shaft with at least one eccentric abrading head attached thereto, wherein the abrading head comprises at least one groove thereon. The eccentric grooved abrading comprises a tissue removing surface—typically an abrasive surface and/or at least one groove. Preferably the eccentric enlarged abrading head has a center of mass spaced radially from the rotational axis of the drive shaft, facilitating the ability of the device to open the stenotic lesion to a diameter substantially larger than the outer diameter of the enlarged abrading head when operated at high speeds. The groove(s) provide improved efficacy in the abrasion of non-calcified and/or soft tissue as well as provide a means for breaking the hydraulic wedge between the abrading head and the stenotic tissue. |
| US08632552B2 |
Method of preparing a femur and tibia in knee arthroplasty
A method of preparing a femur and tibia in surgery on a knee joint using a navigation system and a robotic system. The navigation system tracks movement of the femur and tibia during the surgery. The navigation system may include a plurality of locating devices. The robotic system includes a base, a plurality of arms, and a cutting tool. |
| US08632550B2 |
System and method for providing surgical access to a spine
A system for accessing a spine from a curved postero-lateral approach may include a curved cannula positioned along a curved path from an opening in the skin to a location proximate the spine. A guide member may be first inserted to establish the path between the tissues and fascia, and one or more intermediate cannulas may be temporarily inserted over the guide member to dilate the tissues prior to insertion of the main cannula. An interbody device may be implanted in an intervertebral space through the cannula. The system may include a guide bar removably coupled to a targeting post. The targeting post may be inserted adjacent the spine to provide a target, and the guide bar may be removably attached to the guide member, to guide it along the path to the target location. An external support arm may be secured to any other component of the system. |
| US08632549B2 |
Surgical tool for pectus bar extraction
A pectus bar extraction tool for removing a pectus bar having posterior and anterior sides includes a handle, an engagement member fixed to and extending from the handle for extending from the anterior to the posterior sides of the pectus bar to engage the posterior side of the pectus bar, and a lever arm fixed to and extending from the handle opposite to the engagement member for engaging the pectus bar on the anterior side of the pectus bar. A system and method for removing a pectus bar are also disclosed. |
| US08632545B2 |
Bone plates and bone plate assemblies
The invention relates to bone plate assembly having bone plate and bone screws for compressing and locking of bone plates for stabilizing fractured fragments of a bone. |
| US08632542B2 |
Bone distraction system
A multi-plane bone distraction system including an elongated member with an anchor, slot, rail and anchoring means for use as a distraction device in cutting and either lengthening or shortening a bone. The system is capable of being anchored to one or more bones. |
| US08632538B2 |
Invasive ablation probe with non-coring distal tip
A medical device for delivering RF energy to a target tissue region includes an elongate delivery cannula having a lumen in communication with a distal opening. A deployment member is positioned and longitudinally movable in the lumen. An array of electrode elements are secured to a distal end of the deployment member, the deployment member being movable from a delivery position, in which the electrode elements are positioned within the lumen, to a deployed position, in which the electrode elements extend distally out of the cannula distal opening. A sealing member formed from a bio-compatible material sufficiently rigid to penetrate solid body tissue partially extends from, and substantially seals, the distal cannula opening when the deployment member is in the delivery position. |
| US08632537B2 |
Electrosurgical devices for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy
Monopolar electrosurgery devices adapted for resecting tonsil and adenoid tissue. The devices minimize thermal injury by employing a plasma generated by pulsed electrical signals to precisely and effectively cut or coagulate the tissues. Suction may also be applied to the tissues to enhance the cutting, coagulation, and tissue manipulation functions. The devices include an interchangeable tip that may be switched for another tip, depending on which tip may be more suitable for tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. |
| US08632535B2 |
Interlock and surgical instrument including same
A surgical instrument is disclosed. The instrument includes an end effector comprising a moveable cutting instrument to cut an object and a motor coupled to the end effector. The motor actuates the cutting instrument in response to a current therethrough, causing the cutting instrument to move between a proximal-most position and a distal-most position. The instrument includes an interlock coupled to the end effector and to the motor to prevent actuation of the cutting instrument based on the current through the motor. |
| US08632533B2 |
Fluid-assisted electrosurgical device
The invention provides an electrosurgical device and methods of use thereof. The device comprises a first electrode, a second electrode and at least one fluid outlet. In one embodiment, the first electrode has a distal portion with an electrically conductive spherical surface, the second electrode has a distal portion with an electrically conductive spherical surface, and at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode have a blade portion. |
| US08632532B2 |
Catheter with tissue protecting assembly
A medical probe includes an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, an ablative element mounted to the distal end of the elongate member, and a cage assembly mounted to the distal end of the elongate member, the cage assembly at least partially covers the ablative element. A method of treating tissue in a body includes inserting an ablative element in the body, placing the ablative element adjacent the tissue, and maintaining a distance between the ablative element and the tissue using a protective catheter element that circumscribes at least a portion of the ablative element. |
| US08632529B2 |
Ablation devices and methods of use
Described herein are various methods and devices for delivering cryoablative therapy. One such device includes a cryoablation chamber and a volume displacement chamber. In use, the volume displacement chamber can be expanded to occupy a non-therapeutic volume. |
| US08632527B2 |
Method for generating control data for eye surgery, and eye-surgical treatment device and method
A method for generating control data for an eye-surgical treatment device, which separates tissue layers in the eye cornea by application of a laser device, wherein a contact glass having a contact surface deforms the cornea to conform to the shape of the contact surface during the operation of the laser device. The contact surface is first placed on a cornea apex at a contact surface apex and is then pressed against the same for deforming the cornea. The method includes: generating the control data of the laser device such that the data specifies coordinates of target points located in the cornea for the laser device, and upon generation of the target point coordinates the deformation of the cornea which is present during the operation of the laser device as a result of the contact glass is taken into consideration. The invention provides that the several steps are carried out in consideration of the deformation in order to determine a displacement of a point P in the undeformed cornea caused by the deformation. |
| US08632526B2 |
System and method of interfacing a surgical laser with an eye
A system for interfacing a surgical laser with an eye includes a first sensing element to couple to an output surface of the laser, an interface lens having second sensing element coupled to a first surface of the interface lens, and a detector coupled to the first sensing element. A second surface of the interface lens contacts the eye. The detector determines when the first sensing element contacts the second sensing element. A method for aligning the laser with the eye includes coupling the laser to the patient interface, sensing an electrical change indicating a position of the output surface with the interface lens, comparing the electrical change with a predetermined value to produce a correction, and re-positioning the laser with the correction. |
| US08632522B2 |
Catheter with directed flow design
A catheter includes an elongated catheter body having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A first longitudinally accessible lumen and a second lumen extend side by side within and along the proximal portion, and the first lumen and the second lumen form a single common lumen within the distal portion which extends to a distal end of the distal portion. The first lumen and second lumen are co-axial within the distal portion prior to forming a single common lumen. |
| US08632521B2 |
Syringe assembly
A syringe assembly comprises a syringe barrel having an elongated body defining a chamber for retaining fluid, an open proximal end, a distal end and a frusto-conically shaped tip extending from the distal end and having a passageway therethrough in fluid communication with the chamber. The chamber has an inside diameter of at least 13.5 mm. A stopper is in fluid-tight engagement inside the barrel. An elongated plunger rod extends proximally from the stopper through the open proximal end of the barrel. A flange is positioned at the proximal end of the plunger rod. The flange is shaped and positioned to limit the distal motion of the plunger rod in the barrel by contacting the proximal end of the barrel. A tip cap is releasably connected to the tip for sealing the passageway and the chamber contains injectable liquid. |
| US08632520B2 |
Vein closure and injection kits and methods
Kits, apparatus, devices and methods for treating varicose veins caused by an incompetent venous junction (e.g., the saphenofemoral and/or saphenopopliteal junctions) are disclosed. The kits may include a sheath, a vein closure device, and an injection device. Alternatively, a vein closure device may include an integral injection channel and injection device. Methods may include injecting a vein with a sclerosing agent through a needle that extends in a direction that is not aligned with a longitudinal axis of a sheath or shaft. |
| US08632514B2 |
Laminate with indicia for an absorbent article
The present invention relates to an absorbent article comprising a liquid impervious backsheet formed from a laminate. The liquid impervious backsheet may include at least three layers, a first layer forming the wearer facing side of the backsheet, a second layer forming the garment facing side of the backsheet, and a third layer partially but not fully covering the garment facing surface of the second layer. The first layer may include at least one first indicium on a garment-facing surface thereof and only present on a front half of the backsheet, the at least one first indicium being visible through said second and third layers when looking at the absorbent article from the garment facing side of backsheet. |
| US08632512B2 |
Apparatuses, methods, and compositions for the treatment and prophylaxis of chronic wounds
According to an illustrative embodiment a method to promote healing of a wound is provided comprising contacting the wound with a biologically active composition comprising a lipoic acid derivative and gelatin. In another embodiment a wound dressing is provided comprising a scaffold coated with a biologically active composition comprising a lipoic acid derivative. In a further embodiment, a system is provided for treating a tissue site of a patient, the system comprising a reduced-pressure source to supply reduced pressure, a manifold to distribute reduced pressure to a tissue site and a scaffold coated with a biologically active composition comprising a lipoic acid derivative. Methods for producing such a system and scaffold are also disclosed. |
| US08632510B2 |
Nanochanneled device and related methods
A capsule configured for in vivo refilling of a thereapeutic agent. In certain embodiments, the capsule may contain methotrexate. |
| US08632509B2 |
Injection device with electronic detecting means
An injection device for injecting a dose of drug, e.g. insulin for diabetes treatment, in which energy is stored in a spring member during dose setting. The stored energy is released and used for driving an injection mechanism during injection of a previously set dose. The injection device further comprises means for electronically detecting the amount of a set dose and/or means for electronically detecting the amount of an injected dose. The electronic detecting means allows storage and/or logging of data relating to injections performed using the injection device. |
| US08632508B2 |
Mechanism for injection device
A pressurized injection device comprises a mechanical loading mechanism comprising a double set of rackets (17,18) and ball bearings/pins running in a curved track (20) which enables a resilient element (7) to be pre-stressed by—twisting the two outer house parts of the device relative to each other back and forth. When twisted in one direction one set of rackets (17) engages the teeth of the piston rod (9) connected to the resilient element and when twisted in the opposite direction, the other set of rackets (18) engages same piston rod. The resilient element is set off to engage a plunger of a container holding a drug to be injected by pressing the release button (1), which can be secured by a safety switch. |
| US08632502B2 |
Anchor deployment apparatus
An anchor deployment apparatus for deploying an anchor about a therapy delivery element includes an anchor receiving element having an elongate member having a distal opening and a lumen extending proximally in the elongate member from the distal opening. The lumen of the elongate member is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of a therapy delivery element. The anchor deployment tool further includes an anchor engagement element having (i) a body forming a channel in which the elongate member of the anchor receiving element is axially movable, and (ii) an engagement feature forming at least a part of the channel. The engagement feature is configured to engage the anchor when the anchor is disposed about the elongate member and the elongate member is moved distally relative to the engagement element, and to cause the anchor to move distally along the elongate member when the feature is engaged with the anchor and the elongate member is moved distally relative to the engagement element. The anchor deployment tool also includes an alignment element secured relative to the elongate member and configured to secure the elongate member relative to the body of the anchor engagement element to restrict movement of the elongate member orthogonal to the axis of the channel. The anchor receiving element and the alignment element may be formed from the same or different parts. |
| US08632501B2 |
Device for the rapid injection of local anesthesia through a plurality of needles
This device is a compressible chamber designed to inject a liquid medication through a plurality of needles. It is a self-contained, rapidly deployed device that replaces a classic syringe. It consists of a shallow chamber that is closed on one end and sealed on the other with a sliding elastomeric seal. A rigid ring slides up into the chamber that has multiple small double-ended needles mounted through the periphery of the ring perpendicularly so as to be able to perforate the seal of the chamber with the proximal end and simultaneously penetrate the subcutaneous tissues with the distal end thus allowing medication to flow from the chamber into the tissues when pressure is applied to the top of the chamber. The needles are also imbedded in, or juxtapose to a ring of compressible dye-containing material that serves to conceal the needles and provide demarcation of the area injected. |
| US08632499B2 |
Infusion pump assembly
An infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw. |
| US08632495B2 |
Control valve for a medical suction device, and medical suction device
In a control valve (3) for a medical suction device (1), it is provided that a coupling location (4) of the control valve (3) is includes a guide (8) which, when the control valve (3) is being plugged or fitted into a coupling seat (5) of the medical suction device (1), cooperates with a mating guide piece (9) of the coupling seat (5) for axial guiding and which, in a position turned away from the plugging-in orientation, cooperates with the coupling seat (5) for axially locking the control valve (3) on the coupling seat (5). |
| US08632490B2 |
Insufflation gas warmer and humidifier
An insufflation gas warmer and humidifier apparatus and methods are provided. Insufflation gas is received from a bulky insufflation tubing. Insufflation gas received travels through, in one aspect, a channel or winding flow path, in a passage. The configuration of the passage ensures that the insufflation gas, which travels through the passage, receives sufficient heat and moisture. A humidifying reservoir humidifies the insufflation gas as the insufflation gas is passed to the passage. In one aspect, an oxygenator introduces slight amounts of oxygen into the insufflation gas. A warmer connected to the passage warms the gas in the passage. The warmer, in one aspect, contains a reactive agent that when exposed to air produces heat that is transferred to the passage to warm the insufflation gas within the passage. |
| US08632489B1 |
Implantable medical assembly and methods
An implantable medical assembly includes a cover having a porous chamber. Enclosed within the chamber is a medical device through which aqueous body fluid flows from an outlet of the device into the chamber. The chamber is formed at least in part from a porous material that promotes vascularization and inhibits fibrotic encapsulation upon implantation and that allows aqueous body fluid in the chamber to flow through the porous material into body tissue in which the assembly is implanted. The chamber has a pair of walls that are spaced apart at a first portion of the chamber at or near the outlet and converge at a second portion of the chamber downstream of the outlet. |
| US08632483B2 |
Systems, devices, and methods for mechanically reducing and fixing bone fractures
A frame is sized and configured to support a reduced bone fracture of an individual. A guide assembly on the frame carries a bone fixing device guide that defines a guide path along which a bone fixing device can be advanced into a region of the reduced bone fracture. A linkage system couples the bone fixing device guide to the frame for articulation of the guide path among a plurality of desired orientations with respect to the reduced bone fracture. A guide bushing is included. Which includes packaging that maintains the guide bushing in a sterile condition prior to insertion into the bone fixing device guide. |
| US08632481B2 |
Therapeutic shoe
A therapeutic shoe includes a main body, a sole located at one side of the main body, a vibration layer, and a power generating module. The vibration layer is located between the main body and the sole. The power generating module includes a power generating unit, a rectifying circuit and a vibration device, which are electrically connected in series. The power generating unit generates and induces induced current. The rectifying circuit receives, rectifies, amplifies and processes the induced current from the power generating unit. The vibration device is located at the vibration layer and receives the processed induced current from the rectifying circuit to vibrate according to a predetermined vibration frequency in the vibration layer. |
| US08632480B2 |
Orthopaedic device
A jointexercising device suitable for both lying and sitting patients comprises a tubular frame (11) having an inclined surface (20, 21), and a leg support (31) movable on the surface via an axle (39) and wheels (40). The support is attachable to the axle either via foot portion (33) or leg portion (32), and in either orientation. The inclination of the frame (11) is adjustable. Fences (51) allow leg lifting exercises without disengagement of the wheels (40). |
| US08632479B2 |
Walking trainer
A walking trainer having at least one orthotic, with holding devices for the foot or leg area of a user, which is moved along a preset motion track to execute a natural walking movement. Devices in the form of rolling or gliding means are provided on the underside of the orthotic for allowing the orthotic to glide on a surface below the walking trainer. |
| US08632478B2 |
Pillow with mechanism for simulated respiration
A pillow with simulated respiration includes a pair of impervious panels that are joined together to form a rectangular shaped enclosed body and a mechanism for inflating/deflating the body periodically to simulate an individual's breathing. The pillow may also include a cushion on top of the body with an electric heating pad on top of the cushion together with a pair of vibrators. The vibrators each have an elongated shape and are constructed and dimensioned to message an individual's neck and upper shoulders when the individual's head is placed on the cushion. The pillow also includes a textile cover with a zipper on one side thereof and a satin pillow case. |
| US08632475B2 |
Non-invasive, bedside intra-cranial pressure and brain shift/herniation monitoring unit utilizing early onset auditory evoked responses
An intracranial pressure monitoring system and method. The system includes an auditory stimulation and recording unit, which includes a stimulation controller, a memory for storing waveforms, a device for comparing received waveforms with stored waveforms, and an alarm operable based upon that comparison. The system includes at least one cranial electrode attachable to a patient, and an auditory stimulation device, operable by the stimulation controller. The stimulation device is a pair of acoustic ear inserts, each of which is connected to and operated by an auditory stimulator activated by the stimulation controller. In the method, a patient is auditorially stimulated to evoke a received waveform indicative of intracranial pressure, a comparison is generated by comparing the received waveform with one of an established patient baseline waveform and an established normal waveform, and an alarm is generated responsive to that comparison. |
| US08632473B2 |
Detecting worsening heart failure based on fluid accumulation with respiratory confirmation
A medical device monitors a level of fluid accumulation, e.g., pulmonary edema, and one or more respiratory parameters of the patient to detect worsening heart failure. The medical device may use intrathoracic impedance measurements to monitor both the fluid accumulation and the one or more respiratory parameters. Respiration rate and volume, also referred to as the tidal volume, are examples of respiratory parameters. The medical device examines the one or more respiratory parameters after determining that the fluid accumulation indicates worsening heart failure. In this manner, the medical device uses the one or more respiratory parameters to confirm a determination of worsening heart failure that was made based on the fluid accumulation. |
| US08632472B2 |
Method and apparatus for detection of venous pulsation
Methods and systems for detecting venous pulsation are provided. In one embodiment, a metric of the pulse shape of one or more plethysmographic signals is derived and the presence of venous pulsation is detected based on the metric of pulse shape. Examples, of metrics of pulse shape include a skew metric and a ratio of a minima-to-maxima time over a pulse period interval. In an exemplary embodiment, the presence of venous pulsation is detected based on a metric of the pulse shape of one or more plethysmographic signals and on a phase comparison of the plethysmographic signals. |
| US08632470B2 |
Assessment of pulmonary vascular resistance via pulmonary artery pressure
Methods and systems for assessing pulmonary or systemic vascular resistance in a patient using pressure measurements are disclosed. An illustrative method of measuring pulmonary vascular resistance includes electrically inducing a retrograde pressure pulse within the heart, sensing at least one arterial pressure parameter in response to the retrograde pressure pulse using a pressure sensor located within a pulmonary artery, and computing a value of the pulmonary vascular resistance using the at least one sensed arterial pressure parameter. Data from multiple pulmonary vascular resistance assessments can be taken over an extended period of time within the patient to aid in detecting an underlying cardiac or pulmonary condition such as cardiogenic pulmonary edema. |
| US08632466B2 |
System for processing patient monitoring power and data signals
A device interface selectively acquires patient physiological parameter data. An acquisition processor acquires physiological data from a patient. A communication processor is coupled to an optical communication pathway for receiving optical signals from a source. A conversion processor electrically coupled to the acquisition processor and communication processor converts a first optical power signal at a first frequency and received via the optical communication pathway using the communication processor, to a first electrical signal for providing power to the device interface. The conversion processor converts an optical control signal at a second frequency different from the first frequency and received via the optical communication pathway using the communication processor, to a second electrical signal for providing control data to the acquisition processor directing the acquisition processor to acquire at least one physiological parameter from a patient. |
| US08632461B2 |
System, method and apparatus for navigated therapy and diagnosis
The invention provides an image-guided medical instrument that utilizes a tracking device to track the location of at least a portion of the instrument on at least one image of a patient's anatomy. The instrument may include a handle having an operating element, an elongated flexible body member connected to the handle, wherein the body member includes a lumen, a transmission element housed within the lumen of the body member, and a treatment apparatus connected to end of the transmission element, wherein actuation of the operating element actuates the treatment apparatus via the transmission element. The body member also includes at least one sensor element that is utilized by the tracking device to determine position information regarding the treatment apparatus that is used to display the location of the treatment apparatus on the at least one image of the patient's anatomy. |
| US08632460B2 |
Surgical instrument for injecting a drug into prostate tissue
Method and surgical instrument for treating prostate tissue including a surgical instrument having a main body, a needle deployment port, a needle, first and second handles and a lockout release mechanism to limit needle extension. Additionally, a kit includes the surgical instrument, together with a cystoscope, and optionally a syringe and reservoir of ethanol. The method includes needle-less injection and visualizing the ethanol injection by delivering both an echogenic agent and ethanol either by needle or needle-less injection or by providing an ultrasonically visible marker near the tip of the ethanol delivery cannula. The method also includes extending the needle transversely of the instrument housing using a link assembly. |
| US08632458B2 |
Gentle hemorrhoid treatment offering a substantially painless healing
The teachings provided herein are directed to a methods and devices for treating a hemorrhoid in a subject in a manner that produces substantially less post-procedural pain in the subject, the method minimizing or avoiding a removing or a necrosis of a rectal tissue fold. |
| US08632453B2 |
Spacer for sling delivery system
The invention features systems, methods, and devices relating to delivering a sling to an anatomical site in the body of a patient. |
| US08632447B2 |
Chain-type tool magazine
A chain-type magazine includes a box, a chain-type conveyor and a spinning unit. The box includes a port defined therein. The chain-type conveyor includes links connected to one another so that each of the links can be pivoted relative to the other links about two axes in parallel to each other. A tool can be inserted in a holder inserted in each of the links. The spinning unit includes a mounting assembly, an elevating assembly, a rotary claw assembly and a connecting rod. The mounting assembly is connected to the box. The elevating assembly is movably connected to the mounting assembly. The rotary claw assembly is rotationally connected to the mounting assembly for catching a selected one of the links. The connecting rod connects the elevating assembly to the rotary claw assembly. The driving element drives the elevating assembly to spin the rotary claw assembly. |
| US08632446B2 |
Collapsible exercise chair
An exercise chair of the type wherein a user can sit on a seating platform and extend and retract his legs while his feet are resting on a spring-resisted foot rod includes a structure which permits the chairs to be stacked in nested relationship or a structure using foldable support legs for a seating platform allowing the seating platform to be folded into close relationship with a base frame for storage purposes. |
| US08632442B2 |
Weight control apparatus for a weight training machine
Disclosed is a weight control apparatus for a weight training machine. The weight control apparatus includes a plurality of stacks which are fitted to a pair of guides standing upright between supports on a base such that the stacks slidably move up and down, and which have rectangular locking holes; a body arranged on a front surface of the base, in which the body has a plurality of insertion holes corresponding to the locking holes of the stacks and is provided at an upper portion thereof with a holder; and a cover arranged on the front surface of the body and having a plurality of locking pin members inserted into the insertion holes. Each locking pin member includes a rectangular stopper having a recess inwardly recessed, protrusions protruding from both sides of the recess, and locking protrusions protruding from both sides of the stopper; a shaft pin connected to a front end of the stopper; a button arranged on a front end of the shaft pin; and a conical coil spring arranged between the button and the shaft pin. |
| US08632441B2 |
Multi-function exerciser
A multi-function exerciser includes a main frame. Two first universal joint units and two second universal joint units are respectively provided at two sides of the main frame. Two action units are pivotally connected to the first and second universal joint units. The two axes of the first and second universal joint units at the same side are at the same level and perpendicular to each other. Thus, the user can swing forward and rearward as well as left and right when standing on the footrests of the two action units for a forward split and a side split. Besides, because the two axes are at the same level and perpendicular to each other, the user can stand with one foot and lift another foot to do an oval turning for getting strong muscles in the legs. |
| US08632440B2 |
Proprioception training and exercise device
An exercise apparatus includes a substantially flat, rigid platform for supporting a person's weight. A first inflatable tubular support includes a fastener for clamping the platform to a top surface of the first tubular support. A second inflatable tubular support includes a fastener for fastening a top surface of the second inflatable tubular support to a bottom surface of the first inflatable tubular support. The first inflatable tubular support is inflatable to a first inflation pressure and the second inflatable tubular support is inflatable to a second inflation pressure separately and independently from the first inflation pressure to effect a vertical instability and a horizontal instability of the rigid platform relative to a support surface under the second tubular support. |
| US08632436B2 |
Motor assembly for medical equipment
A motor assembly for use in a surgical tool, has a motor and a gear train. The gear train has an output shaft, a fixed ring gear, a movable ring gear, a cover, and a multi-stage planetary gear set. Each gear stage has a sun gear, a carrier, and planet gears mounted on one side of the carrier. The planet gears are in mesh with a sun gear and either the fixed ring gear or the movable ring gear. The movable ring gear has inner teeth formed on an inner peripheral surface and one of the carriers has outer teeth formed on an outer peripheral surface. The movable ring gear is movable between a first position where the movable ring gear is engaged with and non-rotatable relative to the cover and is disengaged from said one carrier, giving the gear train a higher gear reduction ratio, and a second position where the movable ring gear is disengaged from the cover and is engaged with and rotatable with said one carrier and the planet gears adjacent to the other side of said one carrier giving the gear train a lower gear reduction ratio. |
| US08632432B2 |
Flat-belt-like supporting and drive means with tensile carriers
A supporting and drive belt including a belt body or sheathing which encloses tensile carriers. The running surface of the belt can be flat and parallel to the belt back or have trapezium-shaped or semicircular ribs and grooves, wherein the profile of a drive pulley or of a deflecting pulley is approximately complementary to the running surface of the belt. One or more tensile carriers are provided for each rib, wherein the tensile carriers are laid or stranded alternately in the “Z” direction and the “S” direction. |
| US08632430B2 |
Panel configuration for a game ball
A game ball, which may be a soccer ball or a variety of other types of ball. The game ball includes a plurality of pentagonal panels, with each of the pentagonal panels having five convex edges. The game ball also includes a plurality of hexagonal panels, with each of the hexagonal panels having three substantially linear edges and three concave edges. The pentagonal panels and the hexagonal panels are connected along abutting concave edges and convex edges, and the hexagonal panels are connected each other along abutting linear edges. |
| US08632429B2 |
Training basketball
A training game ball is described having cues for visually indicating the rotational alignment of the ball when it is thrown. If the ball is improperly thrown so that the axis of rotation does not stay perpendicular to the direction of flight, then the rotational alignment cue line will appear to wobble as the ball travels. The ball also has a rotational speed cue formed from a plurality of spaced panels arranged parallel with the alignment cue. If the ball is thrown with a high rotational speed, the panels will appear to the player as a solid line. Still further, the ball also includes hand alignment cues for assisting a player in properly positioning his or her hands for throwing the ball. Each of the cues may have a different appearance, so that they may be visually distinguished. |
| US08632426B2 |
Golf ball dimple profile
The present invention concerns a golf ball having dimples with a cross-sectional profile comprising a conical base shape and a spherical cap with a prescribed point of tangency to the cone sidewall. More particularly, the conical profiles of the present invention are defined by three independent parameters: dimple diameter (DD), edge angle (ΦEDGE), and saucer ratio (Sr) which is a measure of the relative curvature of the dimple bottom. These parameters fully define the dimple shape and allow for greater flexibility in constructing a dimple profile versus conventional spherical dimples. Further, conical dimples provide a unique dimple cross-section which is visually distinct. |
| US08632425B2 |
Golf ball
Golf balls including at least one modified dimple group are disclosed. The modified dimple group comprises one or more modified dimples forming an axially symmetric pattern about a Correction Area Centroid located on an axis of symmetry at a latitude greater than 0°, where 0° represents the hemispherical pole and 90° represents the equator. The modified dimples can be altered, for example, by changing dimple coverage, dimple diameter, dimple depth, dimple edge angle, dimple volume, dimple cross-sectional shape, and/or dimple plan shape. Such modifications preferably produce a golf ball that flies more consistently regardless of orientation when struck than a corresponding golf ball without such modifications. |
| US08632421B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head according to one or more aspects of the present invention may include a main cavity having at least one auxiliary cavity and a base surface. An insert may be associated with the base surface and may comprise at least two contact elements, with a bridge member disposed therebetween. Different contact elements of the insert may be disposed in separate respective auxiliary cavities, such that each contact element may be associated with the base surface. The bridge member of the insert may be dissociated from the base surface. Moreover, a surface coating may be selectively applied to the head to permit a durable adhesive bond between the insert and the base surface. |
| US08632412B2 |
Video game title profile awards
Techniques for recognizing the accomplishments of a game player are disclosed herein. In particular, a user identification profile is provided so that digital items awarded to the user for meeting specified performance criteria in a video game or some other event may be associated with such user identification profile. The digital item may be something that is usable within the current video game title, in a later version or the next generation of a particular video game title, or even in a different video game by the same developer. One technique involves receiving an identification representative of the digital item awarded to the user, associating the digital item with the user identification profile corresponding to the user, and storing an indication that the digital item is associated with the user identification profile. In this way, the indication may be utilized to display the digital item in the user identification profile. |
| US08632404B2 |
Game system, game apparatus, storage medium storing game program and game data exchange method
A game system including a plurality of mobile game apparatuses, and a mobile game apparatus that can communicate with another game apparatus that exists within a communicable range by use of a radio communications unit. When a communicated state is established, exchanging conditions for exchanging game data are received and transmitted, and in a case the exchange conditions are coincident with each other, the game data are exchanged. |
| US08632403B2 |
Apparatus and methods for wireless gaming communications
A gaming communication apparatus may include a wireless transceiver and a controller operatively coupled to the wireless transceiver. The controller may be programmed to establish a bidirectional wireless communication link with a gaming apparatus when in proximity to the gaming apparatus, receive a voice command relating to a first gaming function, transmit first gaming function data to the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver, and receive data relating to a second gaming function from the gaming apparatus via the wireless transceiver. The gaming apparatus may include a second wireless transceiver and a second controller operatively coupled to the second wireless transceiver. The second controller may be programmed to receive the first gaming function data via the second wireless transceiver, execute a first gaming function based on the first gaming function data, and transmit the second gaming function data to the wireless communication device via the second wireless transceiver. |
| US08632400B2 |
Gaming device with personality
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to gaming devices that provide audio-visual animated characters in response to game play. The character has a personality that may be encouraging, taunting or another quality. A plurality of expressions of the personality is presented, between one extreme and another, dependant upon the history of game outcomes. |
| US08632393B2 |
Gaming machine with loyalty bonus
A gaming machine is provided, which awards loyalty points to players playing the game who have identified themselves to the machine. The machine is arranged to award loyalty points to the player and to play two game means wherein, the first or base game may be provided by the slot machine game as a stand alone function with no dependence upon a supporting communications network, the second game may be linked game in which a plurality of network connected machines (50) participate with control of the game being provided by a central game controller (60), while the communications network (62) is controlled by a network controller (61). A first game mode is available to all players and a second enhanced game mode is made available to players who have reached a predetermined threshold of loyalty points. |
| US08632388B2 |
Gaming device and method of providing an adjusted paytable for a number of future plays of a game
One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a game operable upon a wager by a player which initially employs an initial or default paytable. The gaming device enables a player to place wagers on plays of the game. The gaming device displays the game outcomes and provides the player with any awards based on the game outcomes in accordance with the default paytable. Upon an occurrence of a triggering event, a bonus mode is triggered. In one embodiment, when the bonus mode is triggered, the gaming device offers to replace the default paytable with a different one of the paytables for a limited number of future plays of the game, if the player agrees to make an additional wager on each of those future plays of the game. If the player chooses to accept the offer, the gaming device determines outcomes and provides any awards for the limited number of future plays in accordance with the new paytable, as long as the player continues placing the additional wager for each of those plays. If the player chooses not to accept the offer to replace the default paytable with a new paytable, the gaming device displays the number of future plays of the game without requiring the additional wager and provides any awards for those plays in accordance with the default paytable. |
| US08632385B2 |
Gaming system with increasing odds of winning
A system and method for operating gaming systems, such as casino gaming systems and methods, is provided with increasing or improving odds of winning. A display device displays a play area or game board having a plurality of interactive regions some of which are winning regions with others being losing regions. A player may select a region for wagering a fixed wager amount. When the player selects a winning region, the player may elect to take the payout or play at least one additional round of play with the payout. The probability of winning in each additional round of play is increased while increasing the payout by the fixed wager amount. When a losing region is selected, the payout accumulated from the rounds of play is lost. The game mechanic provides for long sequences of wins, or winning streaks, to attract players while reducing variance caused by large jackpot payouts. |
| US08632384B1 |
Card game
A method of card game includes a main game and a side game. The main game includes the steps of dealing two cards to a banker and each player; determining a hand strength of each two-card hand and categorizing it in one of a highest special hand class, a paired hand class, and a standard hand class; dealing a third card if necessary; determining a hand strength of each three-card hands; ranking the hand strength; and determining a winner of the main game. After the main game is completed, the side game includes the steps of determining a category of the hand of the banker; determining a single valuation card of the banker; determining the point value and suite of the single valuation card; and determining a winner of the side game. |
| US08632383B2 |
Gaming machine accepting side bet and control method thereof
The gaming machine of the present invention provides a gaming machine that executes the processing of: determining, for each station, a normal game result based on a player card for the station; accepting via each input device an input for a side bet on a normal game in a station other than the station having this input device; determining, when a side bet is placed, a side game result according to the determined normal game result of the station as the side bet target; and offering a first payout based on the normal game result, and a second payout based on the side game result. |
| US08632382B2 |
Vehicle air system assemblies with aircap assemblies
An air system assembly for a vehicle includes a carpet module and an HVAC unit above the carpet module. A floor aircap assembly is associated with the carpet module and has a vertical portion extending upwardly above the carpet module and a horizontal portion extending below the carpet module. |
| US08632381B2 |
Lightweight cabin pressure thrust recovery outflow valve
An aircraft cabin pressure control system outflow thrust recovery valve includes a frame, a valve element, and actuation hardware. The frame, valve element, and at least a portion of the actuation hardware are made of composite material. The actuation hardware is disposed external to the frame. |
| US08632380B2 |
Method and apparatus for removing a sleeve of meat from an animal part having bone with knuckles on each of its opposite ends
A method of removing a sleeve of meat (D) from an animal part having a bone with a first knuckle (B) on one of two opposite ends of an elongate bone shaft (A) and a second knuckle (C) on another of the two opposite ends. The method includes the steps of engaging the bone of the animal part with a part of a meat stripper (13) between its first knuckle (B) and the sleeve of meat (D) and engaging the bone by a knuckle gripper (71) between the part of the meat stripper (13) and the first knuckle (B). The method continues with moving the meat stripper (13) and the knuckle gripper (71) away from one another, while stripping and gathering the sleeve of meat (D) towards the second knuckle (C). In a subsequent step the method discontinues moving away the meat stripper (13) and knuckle gripper (71) from one another upon the part of the meat stripper (13) engaging the second knuckle (C). |
| US08632379B2 |
In-line batching
An installation for processing slaughtered animal parts of slaughtered animals and forming batches each containing one or more slaughtered animal parts includes a conveying system with a single conveying device or with a plurality of conveying devices, at least one slaughtered animal treatment device positioned along the path of the conveying device, a first weighing device for determining the weight of the one or more slaughtered animal parts carried by a product carrier, an installation control device including slaughtered animal part position determining device and memory device, and a batching device which is positioned along the path of the conveying device for forming batches each containing one or more slaughtered animal parts. |
| US08632376B2 |
Robotic game systems and methods
A vehicle chase game includes a first game object and a second game object. A second game object scans for a projected spot on an overhead surface. The second game object detects the projected spot on the overhead surface and gathers location information based on the detected projected spot. The second game object generates a position of a first game object based on the location information. The second game object transfers the position of the first game object to the chase game application program. The chase game application program selects a behavior based on the position of the first game object, where a goal of the behavior is to drive the second game object to intercept the first game object. The chase game application program sends instructions to the second game object's mechanical and electrical systems to execute the selected behaviors. |
| US08632374B2 |
Salvage suit for shipwrecks
The present invention relates to a salvage or safety suit worn by a person escaping a shipwreck. The suit includes a receptacle structured to receive and enclose a person's body and a head opening for entering the receptacle. The receptacle is layered to provide flotation and thermo-insulation properties to the suit. |
| US08632373B2 |
Foldable watercraft fin
Foldable or collapsible watercraft fins are described. Preferred examples of such fins are foldable surfboard, paddleboard, and kayak fins, one or more of which can be attached to a surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak. |
| US08632370B2 |
Amphibious vehicle
An amphibious vehicle includes: a hull (1) having a longitudinal axis; an aquatic propulsion element; a terrestrial propulsion element (5a, 5b) mounted on arms (4a, 4b) pivoting about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hull, and capable of assuming a stowed position when the vehicle moves over water using the aquatic propulsion element, and an extended position in which the vehicle can move on the ground using the terrestrial propulsion element. In the stowed position, the arms (4a, 4b) extend into cavities (3a, 3b) formed in the hull (1), and a portion of the arms (4a, 4b) defines a lid that at least partially closes the cavity (3a, 3b) in the longitudinal direction of the hull bottom (2). |
| US08632366B2 |
Socket with integrated damping resistor
This invention provides a socket for a circuit board that adds function of electrical resistive element to a contact. A socket includes a socket body extending at a longitudinal direction; and a plurality of contacts disposed in two lines along the longitudinal direction of the socket body. When a memory module is connected to the socket body, terminals formed on opposite surfaces of the memory module are electrically and elastically connected by the contacts. The contact includes a contact portion which contacts the terminal, a bent portion for generating an elastic force, and a base portion. The contact is made of a conductive metal having elastic properties, and the contact used for carrying signal is provided with a resistor of an electrical resistive material that is different from the conductive metal. The resistor is connected in a current path between the base portion and the terminal of the memory module. |
| US08632364B2 |
Socket for wedge bulb
Disclosed is a socket for a wedge bulb to maintain excellent grounding performance despite vibration encountered in use. The wedge bulb includes a light emitting element and a connector protruding from a lower end of the light emitting element and provided at each of a front surface and a rear surface thereof with a pair of parallel elastic terminals. The socket includes an elastic supporting terminal unit provided at an inner wall surface of a coupling recess defined in the socket and serving to elastically support the connector inserted into the coupling recess while achieving electrical connection with the electric terminals. Any one of each pair of the electric terminals is pressed and supported by the elastic supporting terminal unit at a different height from the neighboring electric terminal provided at the same surface of the connector and the other electric terminals provided at the opposite surface of the connector. |
| US08632362B2 |
Method and system for improving crosstalk attenuation within a plug/jack connection and between nearby plug/jack combinations
This application describes a jack for improving crosstalk attenuation. The jack has a housing, a foil at least partially surrounding the housing, wherein the foil is made up of a first section separated and conductively isolated from a second section by a gap or made up of a first metalized section separated and conductively isolated from a second metalized section by a non-metalized section whereby common mode noise caused by the capacitive coupling between foils of a series of adjacent jacks is reduced. |
| US08632361B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector is provided in the present invention, including a plurality of electrical terminal groups, a metal housing, a metal positioning seat and a fixing member. The metal housing has a plurality of terminal-receiving grooves, each of which can accommodate two electrical terminal groups. A contact end of the electrical terminal group extends forward within the metal housing, and a connection end of the electrical terminal group extends downward out of the metal housing. The fixing member has a first bending sheet and a second bending sheet, which are perpendicular to each other and respectively connected to the metal housing and the metal positioning seat for fixing the metal positioning seat to the metal housing. The electrical connector of the present invention uses the metal housing to enhance the electromagnetic shielding effect, have a better heat dissipation efficacy and improve the stability of the connection structure. |
| US08632359B2 |
Power input terminal block housing and cover
In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a housing and a cover. The housing can include a surface to receive a terminal block to transmit power to an electrical component. A shroud to be inserted within the electrical component can extend away from the housing surface. The cover can have an end for hingedly attaching to the housing. The cover is pivotable relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the cover and the housing together form an enclosure for the terminal block. |
| US08632353B2 |
Motor programming tool
A motor programming tool is disclosed for associating with a connection block of a motor and sending signals to a programmable controller of the motor, where the connection block includes a plurality of terminals coupled to the controller. The programming tool includes a tool body with an interface generally corresponding with the connection block of the motor, wiring operable to carry the signals, and a plurality of terminal connecting assemblies to associate with the motor terminals. The tool body includes a shiftable locking mechanism operable to selectively secure the tool body relative to the electrical connection block of the motor. The locking mechanism includes a pivotable latch moveable between an open position, wherein the connecting assemblies are freely moveable into and out of contact with the motor terminals, and a closed position, wherein at least a portion of the pivotable latch is in contact with the motor and the connecting assemblies are restricted from moving out of contact with the motor terminals. |
| US08632351B2 |
Cable assembly with a floating connector
A cable assembly (100) comprises a first connector (1), a second connector (2), a housing shroud (3) positioning the first connector (1) and the second connector (2) and a cable (4) connecting with rear ends of the first and the second connectors (1, 2). The cable assembly (100) further comprises two resilient members (15) abutting against an outside of the first connector, a gap (30) is defined between the housing shroud (3) and the first connector (1) so that the first connector can float under a condition that the resilient member resists the first connector. |
| US08632348B2 |
Electrical cord with tamper resistant mechanism
An electrical cord including a plug on a first end and at least one socket on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within the at least one socket, the shutter assembly including a first and second shutter members positioned proximate the cover assembly and each of the first and second shutter members is at least partially aligned with separate cover openings in the cover assembly and being configured to move from a closed position to an open position in response to engaging at least one plug blade, a third shutter member positioned behind the first shutter member, a fourth shutter member positioned behind the second shutter member, and wherein the first and second shutter members pivot from the closed position to the open position and the third and fourth shutter members slide from the closed position to the open position. |
| US08632347B2 |
Safety socket with protective door
The invention discloses a safety socket with protective door comprising a socket panel, a reset spring, a protective door, and a protective door casing installed on the socket panel, wherein the socket panel and the protective door casing are provided with jacks, a partition is arranged inside the protective door casing, the protective door is provided with a through cavity and sleeved on the partition, the reset spring is located in the through cavity and between the partition and the protective door, slopes are arranged on the inner walls of the protective door, two bottom inclined walls are arranged on the lower end of the protective door, a fulcrum is formed at the intersection of the two bottom inclined walls, and limiting lug bosses matched with the jacks on the protective door casing are arranged on the left and right lower ends of the protective door, respectively. |
| US08632343B2 |
Demonstration mannequin for simulating catheter malposition
A demonstration mannequin for simulating insertion of a catheter or other medical device into the body of a patient is disclosed. The mannequin is useful for training clinicians in the placement of a catheter into the patient's vasculature and includes the ability to provide a malposition scenario in which the catheter is deviated from an intended path within the vasculature, resulting in a simulated malposition thereof. In one embodiment, the mannequin comprises a torso body portion and a simulated vasculature disposed within the body. The simulated vasculature is accessible by a medical device, such as a catheter, which can be advanced within the simulated vasculature. The mannequin further includes at least one diversion element that selectively obstructs a portion of the simulated vasculature to block advancement of a distal end of the catheter along an intended path and instead causes diversion of the catheter, thus simulating a catheter malposition scenario. |
| US08632342B2 |
Training system for an article of footwear
A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a shape correcting member to perform various types of skills including passing a ball. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills. |
| US08632341B2 |
Products and methods for providing education with a virtual book
A product and method for providing a read along educational activity to a user are provided. The product is a single data storage medium containing both book information and associated, coordinated audio narration information. The book information comprises visual images of a book, including pages of a book, moving images of the pages being turned, text on the pages of the book, and pictures or illustrations related to the book or story. The user views the book information on a video screen, as if it were an actual book, while listening to the associated and coordinated audio narration. The product also comprises supplemental features to enhance the read along activity and assist in learning. |
| US08632338B2 |
Combat training system and method
A target acquisition apparatus for use in association with a target, includes a weapon activation sensor, an image detector, a modulated light detector, a weapon processor, and a weapon transceiver for detecting activation of the weapon and producing a triggering signal. The weapon processor identifies a predetermined modulation characteristic from detected light radiation, identifies a predetermined spatial configuration within a predetermined portion of an acquired image, determines a local coordinate system, and produces a hit indication. |
| US08632337B2 |
Method and marker element to determine the position of a dental implant
A method and marker element to determine the position of a prosthetic element (2) which is fixed to the jaw (13) of a person, such as a dental implant. An image is formed of the jaw of a reproduction model of this jaw which is provided with the prosthetic element (2), by means of X-rays or magnetic resonance. At least one marker element (3) is then provided on the prosthetic element (2) which produces a strong contrast in imaging techniques. The position of the marker is then formed by X-rays or by magnetic resonance, and the position of the prosthetic element (2) is then derived from the observed position of the marker element (3). |
| US08632325B2 |
Apparatus for shaping plastics material pre-forms with a sterile room
An apparatus for shaping plastics material pre-forms to form plastics material containers includes a conveying device on which a plurality of blowing stations are arranged. Each of these blowing stations has a blow mold inside which a plastics material pre-form is capable of being shaped to form a plastics material container. The apparatus has a clean room inside which the plastics material pre-forms can be conveyed. The region of the conveying device on which the blowing stations are arranged is situated in the clean room, and at least one further region of the conveying device is arranged outside the clean room. |
| US08632324B2 |
Optimized helix angle rotors for roots-style supercharger
A Roots-type blower has first and second meshed, lobed rotors disposed in first and second chambers of a housing. Each lobe has first and second axially facing end surfaces defining a twist angle that is a function, at least partially, of the number of lobes on each rotor, and each lobe further defines a helix angle that is a function of the twist angle and an axial length between the first and second axially facing end surfaces of said lobe. The lobes cooperate with an adjacent surface of the housing to define at least one blowhole that defines a control volume, occurs in a cyclic manner, and moves linearly in a direction toward the outlet port. The blowhole provides communication between adjacent control volumes. |
| US08632321B2 |
Fully submerged integrated electric oil pump
A submersible electric pump includes a housing adapted to be submerged within a fluid to be pumped having apertures extending therethrough. An electric motor stator is positioned within the housing in communication with the apertures and is adapted to be in contact with the fluid. Inner and outer pump rotors are positioned within the housing in meshed engagement with one another to pump fluid when rotated. A plurality of permanent magnets are fixed for rotation with the outer rotor. |
| US08632316B2 |
Air motor having drop tube with knuckle ends
An air motor for a pump assembly including a drop tube communicating between an upper chamber port and a top plate port and including a longitudinal axis that is at an angle of between about 0° and 10° with respect to each of the upper chamber longitudinal axis and the top plate port longitudinal axis. The drop tube has a substantially constant internal diameter, a first generally bulbous end, a second generally bulbous end, and first and second slots defined in the respective first and second bulbous ends. First and second seals are positioned in the respective first and second slots, and the first and second seals air-tightly seal an outer surface of the drop tube within the upper chamber port and the top plate port. |
| US08632314B2 |
Cooling fan driving device and fan rotational speed control method
The invention reduces waste of flow volume of pressurized oil discharged from a hydraulic pump when the rotational speed of a cooling fan is increased to the target rotational speed. The target rotational speed of the cooling fan is set at a target rotational speed setting portion. An acceleration pattern for increasing the cooling fan to the target rotational speed is set at an acceleration pattern setting portion based on the rotational speed of the cooling fan, the target rotational speed set at the target rotational speed setting portion, and magnitude of force due to inertia of the cooling fan and the hydraulic motor. The rotational speed command value calculation portion controls the pressurized oil to be supplied to the hydraulic motor at a flow rate required. Thus, it is possible to reduce wasted relief flow volume. |
| US08632312B2 |
Reinforced blade for wind turbine
The invention introduces a reinforcement of a box girder of a wind turbine blade. The reinforcement prevents the transverse shear distortion of the blade structure, when the blade is loaded during operation. The reinforcement connects the corners diagonally opposite inside the girder, and fixes them in relation to each other. The reinforcement increases the blade's resistance to overall collapse. The reinforcement comprises one or more individual element, such as rods or plates. |
| US08632311B2 |
Flared tip turbine blade
A turbine blade includes an airfoil terminating in a tip. The tip includes a first rib conforming with a concave pressure side of the airfoil, and a second rib conforming with a convex suction side of the airfoil. The second rib is flared outwardly from the suction side. |
| US08632308B2 |
Fluid elastomeric damper assembly including internal pumping mechanism and volume compensator
Rotary wing system with a rotating blade rotating about a rotation axis. The system includes a fluid damper with a damper fluid for controlling a troublesome motion. The fluid damper has an inboard end and an outboard end, the damper inboard end attached to a first rotary wing system inboard member proximate the rotation axis and the outboard end attached to a second rotary wing system outboard member distal from the rotation axis. The fluid damper contains a damper fluid volume in at least a first working chamber which is worked by a relative motion between said first rotary wing system inboard member and said second rotary wing system outboard member to control the troublesome motion. The damper includes a volume compensator channel in fluid communication with the damper fluid, the volume compensator channel including a centrifugal force mass member movable along a volume compensating length of the volume compensating channel, wherein a rotation about the rotation axis forces the centrifugal force mass member towards an outboard end of the volume compensating channel and pushes damper fluid from the volume compensator channel towards the at least first working chamber. |
| US08632305B2 |
Fan assembly
A fan assembly includes a fan, and a fan holder for receiving the fan. The fan holder includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member. A first side of the second mounting member is pivotably attached to the first mounting member. A second side of the second mounting member is locked to the first mounting member to receive the fan between the first and second mounting members. |
| US08632303B2 |
Wind turbine generator
A wind turbine generator includes a tower, at least one blade, a hub supporting the blade, a nacelle supported by the tower and having a duct part with an intake port and an exhaust port, and a heat exchanger provided in the duct part and cooling a cooling medium for a heat-producing component inside the tower or nacelle. The wall of the nacelle has a double wall structure constituted of an inner wall and an outer wall in an area where the duct part is provided. The inner wall forms a bottom surface of the duct part and has a curved portion which curves inward toward a center line of the nacelle with increasing distance from the hub. The duct part increases in cross-section from a side of the intake port to a side of the exhaust port at least in an area where the curved portion is formed. |
| US08632296B1 |
Method and apparatus for loading vessels using rotation
A method and apparatus for rapid loading stacks of items aboard vessels which can include rotating palletized items to depalletize the items, and then placing the items on a lifting robot, lifting the robot and items into the hold of a vessel, removing the items from the robot using a load push lift truck, and then using the load push lift truck to stow the items in a stowage location. The empty robot can be removed from the hold of the vessel and put in a position to receive a another depalletized stack of cartons. In one option the robot has a plurality of fork channels for receiving the blades of a load push lift truck along with receiving the blades or a rotating lift truck. |
| US08632295B2 |
Transporting system, and teaching method in the transporting system
A transporting system includes: a track portion; a plurality of loading platforms, disposed along the track portion, whose positions differ from each other in at least one direction; a plurality of transporting vehicles, each having a travelling device travelling along the track portion and a loading device, for loading transported objects; a first detecting device for detecting a first reference position, of the loading device when a reference transporting vehicle loads the transported object; a second detecting device for detecting a second reference position, of the loading device when each of the other transporting vehicles other than the reference transporting vehicle loads the transported object; and a teaching device for providing information on the position of the loading device with respect to each of the other loading platforms when each of the other transporting vehicles loads the transported object, on the basis of the detected first and second reference positions. |
| US08632293B2 |
Cart for transport and storage of items
A cart for storage of items, such as air passenger luggage, and transport thereof between, e.g., airport sorting apparatus and aircrafts, comprises a chassis and a storage section. The storage section comprises one or more shelves, each of which is inclined with respect to the chassis, to allow items to be moved under the action of gravity between a loading end and an unloading end of the cart. A releasable closure structure is provided at the lower end of the shelf. The closure structure may form a continuation of the shelf when in its non-closing position. The cart is suited for automatic or manual loading and unloading of items. |
| US08632287B2 |
Fastener retainer
A fastener retainer is provided capable of retaining a fastener to a part prior to and during assembly. A first portion engages a fastener flange while leaving a fastener head exposed for assembly tool access. A second portion has flanges that engage the edges of the part. |
| US08632286B2 |
Transportation unit for a wind turbine rotor blade
A transportation system for a wind turbine rotor blade is provided. The transportation system includes a root fixture adapted to receive the root end of the wind turbine rotor blade, and a tip end fixture adapted to receive a tip end of the wind turbine rotor blade. The root fixture and the tip end fixture are provided as separate transportable units. |
| US08632283B2 |
Machine tool
In a machine tool, a support member to which a headstock is mounted movably in an upward-downward direction is movable so as to change a position thereof in a horizontal direction relative to that of a bed. A guide member is provided on the bed and configured to guide the support member. An engageable portion at which the support member is supported by the guide member is located in the support member at a level within a range of upward-downward movement of the headstock along the support member. |
| US08632281B2 |
Mechanically stabilized earth system and method
A system and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structure is provided. A wire facing is composed of horizontal and vertical elements, where a soil reinforcing element is coupled to the wire facing at one or more crimps formed in either of the horizontal or vertical elements. A connection device may be inserted through an opening defined between the soil reinforcing element and the one or more crimps such that the soil reinforcing element may be coupled to the wire facing. A strut may be coupled to the top-most cross wire of the vertical element and the terminal wire of the horizontal element to maintain the vertical element at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal element as backfill is added to the wire facing. |
| US08632277B2 |
Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method
An apparatus and method of connecting an earthen formation to a concrete facing of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structure. A one-piece connector having a stem and a tab, wherein the stem is connected to a soil reinforcing element embedded within the earthen formation and the tab is connected to a facing anchor attached to the concrete facing. The connection allows soil reinforcing mats to swivel in a horizontal plane, but also to shift vertically in reaction to MSE settling or thermal expansion/contraction of an MSE structure. |
| US08632275B2 |
Excavation machine with a pivotable kelly bar
An excavation machine including —a mast having a longitudinal direction, —a bar presenting a first end provided with an excavation tool, and —a carriage movable along the longitudinal direction of the mast and including a first holder member for holding the bar relative to the carriage, the carriage being suitable for moving the bar along the longitudinal direction of the mast. The first holder member is pivotable relative to the carriage and by the fact that the first holder member presents a locked state in which the bar is prevented from moving in translation relative to the carriage, and an unlocked state in which the bar is free to move in translation relative to the carriage. |
| US08632274B2 |
Deployment method for ocean bottom seismometers
A deployment method and system for ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) includes providing a plurality of circular shaped, wireless, self-contained OBS units. The circular shaped OBS units are loaded into a carrier and transported from a surface vessel to the ocean floor where a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is utilized to individually place the plurality of circular OBS units on the ocean floor. Placement of each OBS unit is accomplished by utilizing suction mechanism attached to a robotic arm. The suction mechanism is defined about an axis and employs a suction cup to individually engage each circular shaped OBS unit so that the suction mechanism is coaxially aligned with the OBS unit, and move the OBS unit from a first location to the ocean floor. |
| US08632273B2 |
Water draining pipe and draining method thereof
A water draining method comprises water draining adapted for roads, mountains, mountainsides, protective hillsides, retaining walls, grass slopes, airport runways, highways, football fields, grass slopes, stone dams, embankments, landfills, farms, irrigating and draining systems, characterized in that: a. installing receiving members in a pervious bed; b. arranging draining pipes in the receiving members; c. disposing draining ditches on one or two ends of a drain tube; d. drawing excessive water to the draining pipes by using drawing ports of the drain tube and draining the water into the draining ditch via an end portion of the drain tube. Thereby, the present invention allows to obtain rain collecting, impurities filtering, irrigating, draining, anti-leaking, and warning functions. |
| US08632272B2 |
Outside wrap post coupler accommodating beam rivet
A post coupler is provided with a pair of coupler flanges having rivet receiving apertures for receiving rivets extending from horizontal shelf-supporting beams to facilitate vertical shelf placement in a shelving unit unfettered by the vertical disposition of the post couplers. Apertures in the coupler index with apertures in abutting corner post sections to permit rivet extension therethrough. The reverse bend flanges of the coupler have a length shorter than the overall length of the coupler. |
| US08632270B2 |
Retractable lamp pen
A lamp pen includes a pen body, a refill, a conductive rotating slide, a lamp, and a cartridge holding a battery. The rotating slide is electrically connected to the battery. A conductive bar on a surface of the slide abuts an end of the cartridge, which comprises a helical surface forming higher and auxiliary higher slots disposed at a highest point of the surface. A first lead of the lamp is connected to the battery, and a second lead is affixed within the higher slot. Rotating the slide causes the conductive bar to engage either the higher slot or auxiliary higher slot, pushing the cartridge downward so that the refill extends out of the pen tip. When the higher slot is engaged, the second lead of the lamp connects to the conductive bar, the electric circuit completes, and the lamp illuminates. |
| US08632269B2 |
Oral care instrument including an oral care agent
An oral care instrument includes at least one oral care agent. In one embodiment, the oral care agent can be provided on one or more surfaces of the oral care instrument or included within cavities within the head or in one or more surfaces of a head. In other embodiment, the oral care agent can be provided in or on a thin slab subsequently bonded onto a surface, or applied as a stable coating. The oral care instrument can also be provided with a wear indicator. The oral care agents can be released during one use, during multiple uses, or throughout the life of the instrument. Water, oral secretions and/or chemicals within the mouth can activate the oral care agents. |
| US08632267B2 |
Carbon ribbon recovery device and a printer having the same
A carbon ribbon recovery device includes a carbon ribbon supply roller (100) and a carbon ribbon recovery roller (200). The carbon ribbon recovery roller (200) includes a first clutch plate (211), a second clutch plate (212), a friction element (213), a recovery gear (214) and a spindle (215); the spindle (215) is provided on a frame (400) of a printer to support a carbon ribbon (700); the first clutch plate (211), the second clutch plate (212), the friction element (213) and the recovery gear (214) are arranged in turn on the spindle (215), the first clutch plate (211) rotates in synchronism with the spindle (215); the recovery gear (214), the friction element (213) and the second clutch plate (212) can rotate around the spindle (215); the recovery gear (214) is rotated by a carbon ribbon driving device (300), and to drive the friction element (213) rotating, then to proceed to give the second clutch plate (212) a rotating force in the same direction; the second clutch plate (212) is matched with the first clutch plate (211) when the second clutch (212) rotates in a predetermined direction; the second clutch plate (212) is not matched with the first clutch plate (211) when the second clutch (212) rotates in a direction opposed to the predetermined direction. The present invention also relates to a thermal transfer printer having the carbon recovery device. |
| US08632265B2 |
Shutter device capable of preventing foreign matter from adhering to magnetic sticking surface and camera including shutter device
A shutter device capable of preventing foreign matter from adhering to an attracting surface of an armature to a yoke, without providing an additional member. In a state of the shutter device assembled to a camera body, an attracting surface of the armature, provided on a drive lever, to the yoke that magnetically attracts the armature extends perpendicularly to a bottom surface of the camera body and is disposed closer to the bottom of the camera body than is a pivotal axis of the drive lever. The shutter device releases the armature of the drive lever from a state attracted and held by the yoke to thereby allow the drive lever to pivot by the urging force of a drive spring, whereby said shutter blade is driven in the direction of closing an opening formed in a base plate. |
| US08632263B2 |
Optical module mounting unit and optical module
An optical module includes a module housing body including an electrical connection section for electrically connecting the electronic substrate and the optical module to each other and a housing section for housing the optical module, where the module housing body is mounted on the electronic substrate in such a manner that an electrical connection terminal of the electronic substrate and the electrical connection section is connected to each other and a fixing member for maintaining a state in which an electrical connection terminal of the optical module has contact with the electrical connection section in the module housing body. The optical module is housed in the housing section and is fixed in a removable manner by the fixing member, and the optical waveguide and the optical element are configured to be optically coupled to each other in a state in which the optical module is fixed. |
| US08632261B2 |
Integrated and sealed opto-electronic device assembly
An opto-electronic device assembly adapted for mounted on a mother board includes a case and opto-electronic devices. The case has multiple cavities opening forwards and downwards. Each opto-electronic device includes an optical engine module and an electrical socket. The optical engine module includes an optical engine, an optical transmission interface and an electrical transmission interface with electrical pads. The electrical socket has a plurality of terminals with one ends contacting with PCB and another opposite ends contacting with the electrical pads. Each electrical transmission interface is removeably assembled in the electrical sockets to complete electrical connection between the substrate and the mother board. The opto-electrical devices are received in the cavities in a condition that the optical transmission interfaces exposes to a front open of the case. |
| US08632260B2 |
Strain relief system
A bend limiting system (strain relief (200)) that may be retrofit onto a cable connector (142). The bend limiting system includes a latching ring (102) configured to fit over the cable connector's mating face so that the bend limiting system may be placed into position after the connector is connected to another device. The bend limiter (200) includes three sections. These sections include a latching ring (202) in the front, an elongated cable guide (204) in the middle and a cable retainer (206) at the end. The latching ring portion (202) is of a generally circular shape to engage the mating face of a round complementary connector. |
| US08632258B2 |
Optical connector adapter with shutter
An optical connector adapter allowing a stopper member to be arranged at ends of an insertion hole while being overlaid on a shutter member is provided.In the optical connector adapter, a first base plate of the shutter member is fitted into a bottom wall recess, a second base plate of the stopper member is fitted into the bottom wall recess while being overlaid on the first base plate of the shutter member, first both side plates of the shutter member are fitted into a sidewall recess, and the second both side plates of the stopper member are fitted into the sidewall recess while being overlaid on the first both side plates of the shutter member. |
| US08632255B2 |
Bearing assembly
A bearing assembly includes a first bearing comprising a first inner ring and a second bearing comprising a second inner ring. A sleeve-shaped spacer is disposed between and axially separates the first and second inner rings. An adhesive connects the spacer to the first and second inner rings. |
| US08632254B2 |
Bearing sump with bi-directional stiffness
A bearing sump includes an annular housing having a first axial length that is substantially equivalent to an axial length of the bearing sump; an annular bearing support disposed concentrically within the annular housing and having a second axial length that is less than about 50% of the first axial length; an annular space between the housing and the bearing support; and first and second axial ribs in the form of annular segments having a central angle of less than about 60 degrees and connecting with both the housing and the bearing support. |
| US08632253B2 |
Bearing unit of a shaft of a pressure generating device
A bearing unit rotatably supports a shaft of a pressure generating device, such a boost pressure generating device of an internal combustion engine. The bearing unit includes at least a first rolling-element bearing and a second rolling-element bearing, each rolling-element bearing having an inner ring and an outer ring. An annular space is defined between the respective inner and outer rings and rolling elements are disposed in the annular space. At least one volume element is disposed in the annular space and at least partially fills the annular space in an axial area. |
| US08632251B2 |
Bearing closure/shield for current passage in electric equipment
At least one closure element is arranged between an outer ring and an inner ring of a bearing. The closure element aids in ensuring electric current is kept away from the rolling elements by diverting electric current from the outer ring to the inner ring of the bearing and onto a shaft of an associated machine. The closure element can take the form of either a seal or a shield. The closure element is arranged in the outer ring and contacts at least one of the notches of the inner ring. Preferably, more than one closure element is used. |
| US08632250B2 |
Hybrid lubricating module
A hybrid lubricating module includes a housing and an assembly which consists of at least two elements and has an axial hole run through by a shaft. At least one of the elements has one set of multiple notches on one end surface communicating with an axle hole. The housing has a through axial cavity to encase the assembly. An outer wall surface of the assembly and an inner wall surface of the housing are assembled to each other to form at least one storage chamber to store lubricating media. Multiple notches on at least one adjacent element form at least one set of passages communicating with the axial hole and the at least one storage chamber. |
| US08632245B2 |
Temperature sensor
A temperature sensor is provided that can easily make possible stuffing with the filler or burying of the temperature detector element so that faster temperature response can be achieved. A temperature sensor has a closed-bottom tubular shaped case, a temperature detector element inserted and accommodated in the case, and a filler filled in the case and sealing the temperature detector element. The temperature sensor is provided with a filler flowing portion formed in a relative gap between the case and the temperature detector element along an insertion direction of the temperature detector element and having a gap relative to the temperature detector element larger than that relative to the remainder portion of the gap. |
| US08632236B2 |
LED lighting module and lighting device comprised thereof
A lighting module and lighting device are described. Embodiments of the lighting modules comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs), a power supply, and a waveguide that disperses light from the LEDs to illuminate a lighted side of the lighting module. In one embodiment, the lighting module comprises a substrate, on which the LEDs and power supply are mounted. The substrate includes an interface that permits the lighting module to communicate with an adjacent lighting module when positioned in an array that forms an LED lighting device. |
| US08632235B2 |
Light curing device
The invention relates to a light curing device for dental purposes having a plurality of semiconductor light sources, each light source includes a light-emitting chip, wherein said chips are mounted on a common and chip-cooling substrate. Each chip is surrounded by an individual reflector body connected to the substrate and/or the chip associated therewith, and the reflector bodies of at least two chips are arranged next to one another but are not connected with one another. |
| US08632234B1 |
LED and fiber optic ring pathway light
Pathway and landscape lights, in particular to devices, apparatus, systems and methods of using ground directed pathway and landscape lights with a single or perimeter spaced apart LED (light emitting diode) light sources on a disc mount, with or without an optical fiber arranged in a ring pattern about a perimeter edge of the mount. A light shade lens can have an upper end attached to the lower face of the disc mount, and a bottom end attached to a ground engaging post, so the light emitted from the mount is directed in a 360 degree outwardly expanding direction expanding outward on the ground surface where the ground engaging post is in the center of the 360 degree expanding illumination. A low voltage power source can be used. Alternatively, the light can be solar powered. The light forms uniform light beam emissions without shadow spots effects. |
| US08632232B2 |
Vehicular headlamp having a columnar light guide
A vehicle lamp includes, within a lamp chamber formed by a lamp body and a front cover, a light source, a columnar light guide having an incident portion at the end thereof in the vicinity of the light source, and an annular reflecting portion arranged in the vicinity of the light source side of the incident portion. The columnar light guide guides incident light from the light source, which enters via the incident portion, and irradiates the incident light from a light-emitting portion on a front side. The annular reflecting portion reflects light with a large emission angle, which has not been able to directly enter the incident portion from the light source, toward the incident portion. The light source is arranged on a central axis of the annular reflecting portion. |
| US08632229B2 |
Vehicle headlamp system
A vehicle headlamp system includes a headlamp having multiple control devices and an ECU. Each of the control devices controls a light irradiation condition of the headlamp. The ECU stores vehicle constants, error code information and initialization information corresponding to different types of vehicle, and controls the control devices. When a vehicle type is changed, the ECU selects at least one of the vehicle constants corresponding to the changed vehicle type, clears the stored error code information and the initialization information after selecting the at least one of the vehicle constants, stores initialization information corresponding to the changed vehicle type, and initializes the control devices. The ECU recognizes dependencies between the control devices and, if the control devices include a first control device that is independent, executes normal control by the first control device directly after initializing the first control device. |
| US08632228B2 |
Vehicle headlamp
A vehicle headlamp includes: a lamp outer casing; a lamp unit; a stationary frame; a movable frame that is supported by the stationary frame to be rotatable about a first rotating shaft extending in a lateral direction or a second rotating shaft extending in a vertical direction; a lens unit disposed in the lamp outer casing and supported by the movable frame; a first aiming operation shaft that adjusts an optical axis, and a second aiming operation shaft that adjusts the optical axis. A focal point of the light reflected by a reflector is coincident with a center of the first or second rotating shaft. The lens unit is rotated about the first or second rotating shaft such that a distance between the focal point and the projection lens is constant. The heat sink is positioned on the outside of the lamp outer casing. |
| US08632225B2 |
Optical lens, LED module having the optical lens, and lighting apparatus having the LED module
An optical lens includes: a lens body having an outer surface extending in a longitudinal direction (a first direction) and formed to be symmetrical in a lateral direction (a second direction); and a cavity formed at a lower portion of the lens body and having inner side faces asymmetrical in the longitudinal direction. |
| US08632222B2 |
LED lighting equipment with radiating structure having increased surface area and high ventilation efficiency
Disclosed is LED lighting equipment formed with a radiating structure which can improve the heat radiation effect by having good ventilation and an increased surface area. According to the present invention, the LED lighting equipment comprises: a printed circuit board; a plurality of LEDs which are mounted on the front of the printed circuit board; a radiating structure which supports the printed circuit board, and radiates the heat generated from the plurality of LEDs; a power supply unit which is formed on the rear of the radiating structure, and supplies power to the plurality of LEDs through the printed circuit board; and a cover which protects the plurality of LEDs from the outside, wherein the radiating structure comprises a plate-shaped upper member, a lower member, and a plurality of intermediate members combined between the upper member and the lower member, and each of the plurality of intermediate members includes a body of which the inner part is hollow and a plurality of protrusions which are radially formed on the body. |
| US08632215B2 |
Light emitting diode replacement lamp
In various embodiments, an illumination device includes a housing, a power connector for connecting the illumination device to a power socket and receiving input power, a light emitter for direct illumination disposed within the housing, a circuit for regulating the input power and providing the regulated power to the light emitter, and a decorative illumination element for providing decorative illumination. |
| US08632209B2 |
Hybrid source lighting system
A lighting fixture system, comprising a first illuminant, a secondary illuminant; and a sensor configured to detect a predetermined condition, the sensor being coupled to the first illuminant and the secondary illuminant, the first illuminant and the secondary illuminant comprising different light sources, the sensor configured to cause modulation of the first illuminant and the secondary illuminant in response to detection of the pre-determined condition. |
| US08632205B2 |
LED lighting module using AC power
The present invention relates to an LED lighting module using AC power, where an AC-driven LED lighting is implemented by a simplified rectifier circuit and by adjusting the number of LED elements, without using a dedicated circuit configuration such as SMPS, and the LED modules are arranged in a way to enable a multiplicity of unit modules to be driven with a single power supply. The LED lighting module using AC power contains a power supply which receives AC power; unit modules, each having at least two LED sets connected together, each having one LED element or plural interconnected LED elements driven by an input power; and rectifier circuits, each being separately installed to which the power is input, for rectifying AC power which is input through the power supply when a multiplicity of unit modules form a loop. |
| US08632198B2 |
Flexible LED lighting systems, fixtures and method of installation
A low-voltage LED lighting system, LED lighting fixtures, and a method for installation thereof in which the system includes: (a) at least one LED lighting fixture each having one or more LEDs; (b) at least one remotely-located power driver; and (c) interconnections between the at least one LED fixture and the at least one driver using communication network cabling and standard 8P8C network connectors. Preferred lighting fixtures are recessed lighting fixtures adapted for ceiling mounting. |
| US08632194B2 |
Device for controlling temperature of an optical element
A device serves for controlling temperature of an optical element provided in vacuum atmosphere. The device has a cooling apparatus having a radiational cooling part, arranged apart from the optical element, for cooling the optical element by radiation heat transfer. A controller serves for controlling temperature of the radiational cooling part. Further, the device comprises a heating part for heating the optical element. The heating part is connected to the controller for controlling the temperature of the heating part. The resulting device for controlling temperature in particular can be used with an optical element in a EUV microlithography tool leading to a stable performance of its optics. |
| US08632193B2 |
Active display imaging system provided with an eyecup
An imaging system comprises an active display and a flexible eyecup made of a light-proof material, arranged around the active display and intended to eliminate the leakages of light between the active display and an observer. The imaging system comprises: pumping means capable of creating an air pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the eyecup, means for switching on the active display when a threshold pressure difference, called switching-on pressure Pa, is reached between the inside and the outside of the eyecup. |
| US08632189B2 |
Multiple source high performance stereographic projection system
Multiple source high performance stereographic projection systems are described. One projection system described comprises a first projection channel, a first light source capable of providing light for the first projection channel, and a second light source capable of providing light for the first projection channel, wherein when the projection system is in a first presentation mode the first and second light sources are on, and wherein when the projection system is in a second presentation mode the first light source is on and the second light source is at a reduced power. |
| US08632188B1 |
Scleral contact lens manufacturing
The different illustrative embodiments provide a method, computer program product, and apparatus for manufacturing a scleral contact lens. A number of dimensions for the scleral lens is generated based on a shape of an eye. An alteration to a first wavefront of light caused by the first wavefront of light traveling through a pupil of the eye is identified. A modification configured to be made to a posterior surface of the scleral lens is generated based on the alteration. The modification removes the alteration for a second wavefront of light traveling through the scleral lens and the pupil of the eye. |
| US08632186B2 |
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for detecting and predicting a progression of retinal pathologies
One aspect of the invention provides a method for training a classification algorithm to detect a retinal pathology. The method includes: for a plurality of pseudo two-dimensional data sets of one-dimensional data points, each pseudo two-dimensional data point representing RNFL thickness values for a subject and corresponding index values for the data points: performing fractal analysis on the data set to calculate a plurality of fractal dimensions and calculating a plurality of slopes between each fractal dimension; combining the plurality of slopes for subjects labeled as pathologic into a pathologic data set; combining the plurality of slopes for subjects labeled as healthy into a healthy data set; and applying a linear discriminant function the pathologic data set and the healthy data set; thereby training a classification algorithm to detect the retinal pathology. |
| US08632185B2 |
Intraoperative estimation of intraocular lens power
Apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, including surgical apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, an autorefraction device associated with the surgical apparatus, wherein the autorefraction device is configured to perform autorefraction on the aphakic eye to provide one or more aphakic refraction measurements, and a processor connected to the autorefraction device, wherein the processor is configured to process the aphakic refraction measurements and provide the user of the apparatus with information regarding the power of the intraocular lens. |
| US08632181B2 |
SS OCT interferometry for measuring a sample
An SS OCT interferometry device for measuring a sample, in particular from an eye. The device interferometrically generates a measuring signal and from the signal a depth-resolved contrast signal of the sample by spectral tuning of the central wavelength of the measurement radiation of a measuring signal, and has a control unit for this purpose. The device includes a sample motion detector, which provides a motion signal indicating movement of or in the sample, the control unit uses the motion signal to correct the measuring signal with respect to measuring errors that are caused by a movement of or in the sample before or during the generation of the depth-resolved contrast signal. |
| US08632180B2 |
Automated detection of uveitis using optical coherence tomography
Systems and methods for automatically detecting, classifying and quantifying clumps indicative of inflammation in the eye using optical coherence tomography images are described. Clump detection relies on both intensity and geometric thresholding. Applications of the invention include improved diagnosis, classification and monitoring of inflammatory disease. |
| US08632179B2 |
Diagnostic, prescriptive, and data-gathering system and method for macular pigment deficits and other eye disorders
A macular health measurement and storage system comprises a plurality of macular-pigment measurement machine for measuring macular pigment density in humans, a plurality of computers each of which is associated with a corresponding one the macular-pigment measuring machines, and a central host. The plurality of macular-pigment measurement machines include a device for receiving macular pigment data from a patient, at least one data transfer port, and at least one processor that enables the transfer of the macular pigment data from the transfer port. The plurality of computers include a first port coupled to the data transfer port of the corresponding macular-pigment measurement machine for receiving the macular pigment data. Each of the computers includes a second port for transferring patient data. The central host is coupled to the second ports on each of the plurality of computers. The central host includes a storage device for storing the patient data. |
| US08632178B2 |
Determining physical lengths in an eye using multiple refractive indices
In certain embodiments, determining physical lengths of an eye includes determining an optical length of each segment of a plurality of segments of an axis of the eye, where each segment corresponds to a portion of the eye. A refractive index is determined for each segment. A physical length of each segment is determined according to the optical length and the refractive index of the segment. |
| US08632177B2 |
Method for determining the inset of a progressive addition lens
A method for determining the value of the inset of a progressive addition lens according to a wearer comprising the steps of: providing convergence data, determining from the convergence data the inset of the progressive addition lens considering at least the convergence data and the prismatic effect of the progressive addition lens. |
| US08632176B2 |
Reading glasses with a book compatible temple and hinge combination
Reading glasses are used as a book mark and are framed so that one temple is longer than the opposite temple. This offset permits one arm of the frame to be inserted into the pages of a book from above as a book mark. The elongated temple accommodates the thickness of the spine so that the lens frame sits flat against the spine. Friction between the pages of the book and the inserted arm keep the glasses in place and prevent them from being misplaced. |
| US08632173B2 |
Manifold for a printhead
A printhead assembly is described including multiple printheads, a manifold and multiple inlet tubes. The printheads each include: a fluid inlet to receive fluid into the printhead; and a set of one or more nozzles to deposit fluid on a substrate. The manifold is connected to the printheads and includes: a fluid inlet duct configured to receive fluid for delivery to the printheads; multiple fluid inlet channels for connecting the fluid inlet duct to the printheads; and multiple fluid inlet valves configured to control a flow of fluid from the fluid inlet duct to each of the fluid inlet channels. The inlet tubes each have a proximal end integral to either the manifold or one of the printheads, and a distal end connected to either the manifold or said printhead with a single fluid-tight connection. |
| US08632172B2 |
Ink jet printing
An ink jet printer includes a print head, a gutter, an ink supply system, and a fluid cartridge. The fluid cartridge includes an inner collapsible container for containing a printing fluid. The container includes an outlet for connection to the printer, an outer housing, an electronic storage device, and at least one electrical contact. |
| US08632169B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, piezoelectric element, and method for evaluating piezoelectric layer
A liquid ejecting head includes a piezoelectric element including a piezoelectric layer made of a piezoelectric material and an electrode disposed on the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric material is such that when a diamond conical indenter having an angle α of 136° between opposite faces is pressed into the piezoelectric layer at a load of 5 gf for 5 seconds to form cracks extending from an indentation, using a micro Vickers hardness meter, the length of the cracks from four corners of the indentation is 15 μm or less. |
| US08632166B2 |
Printing device and method of manufacturing a light emitting device
A first pressure generating chamber, which is sealed by a first elastic plate mounted with a first piezoelectric element at one surface, and a second pressure generating chamber, which is sealed by a second elastic plate mounted with a second piezoelectric element at one surface are formed in a casing. The second pressure generating chamber is formed with an opening which is a discharge port. A mixture is discharged from the discharge port. A nozzle formed with an opening jets gas toward a substrate surface, and is provided in the vicinity of the discharge port of the ink head. |
| US08632164B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a platen disposed with a gap from a nozzle plate of a recording head and supporting a recording medium in ejecting, and an platen application voltage generating unit generating an electric field having a direction different from an electric field generated between an individual external electrode of a piezoelectric vibrator and nozzles, between the nozzle plate and the platen, in which the intensity of the electric field generated by the applied-to-plate voltage generating unit is set in between the maximum electric field intensity and the minimum electric field intensity between the individual external electrode and the nozzles. |
| US08632163B2 |
Liquid ejecting head and method for manufacturing the same
A liquid ejecting head includes a liquid ejecting port for ejecting a liquid and a nozzle layer having a liquid channel communicating with the liquid ejecting port. The nozzle layer has two layers: a first layer at the side of the liquid channel having a resin film formed with an acid and a second layer. The first layer has a smaller static contact angle of water as compared with that of the second layer. |
| US08632161B2 |
Liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus including the liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes a common-chamber formation member including a common chamber to supply liquid to pressure chambers communicating nozzles for ejecting liquid droplets, a flexible thin-film member to form part of a wall face of the common chamber, and a thin-film support member bonded to the thin-film member with glue. The support member has an opening or a recessed portion at least partially having a shape that is broad in an area proximal to a first surface of the support member bonded to the thin-film member and becomes narrower as an area of the opening or the recessed portion is more distant from the first surface. The opening or the recessed portion is sealed with the thin-film member. A portion of the thin-film member corresponding to the opening or the recessed portion has the glue on only a periphery area of the portion that contacts the support member. |
| US08632160B2 |
Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets
An image forming apparatus includes recording heads, head holders, a carriage, a guide member, a reference member, and a pressing member. The recording heads have nozzles to eject liquid droplets. The holders hold the recording heads. The carriage is reciprocally movable in a main scanning direction and holding the holders. The guide member is disposed along the main scanning direction to guide the carriage along the main scanning direction. The reference member is disposed parallel to the guide member in the carriage to hold the holders. The pressing member presses at least one of the holders toward at least another of the holders. The holders have reference faces to contact each other in the main scanning direction to determine relative positions of the holders. With the recording heads positioned based on the reference faces of the holders, the recording heads are held by the holders. |
| US08632159B2 |
Mist collection device and liquid ejection device
A mist collection device is adapted to collect a mist of liquid generated by ejecting the liquid from nozzles. A suction section of a suction container includes a suction port having an elongated shape whose length in an arrangement direction of the nozzles is greater than a width in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction. A tube section of the suction container is in communication with the suction section and having a hollow tube shape whose longitudinal direction is parallel to the arrangement direction. An outlet section of the suction container is in communication with an inside of the tube section through a discharge port formed at a lower part of the tube section. A collection container collects the mist by turning it into liquid droplets. A suction device generates an air flow flowing from the suction container to the collection container. |
| US08632158B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus is provided. The liquid ejection apparatus includes two line-type heads, each of which includes an ejection surface having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquid to a recording medium; and two covers provided for the two heads, respectively, and each of the covers being movable relative the corresponding head between a protection position where the cover covers the ejection surface of the corresponding head and a retraction position where the cover does not cover the ejection surface of the corresponding head. Each of the heads includes a first side close to a head other than the corresponding head and a second side away from the head other than the corresponding head. The retraction position of each of the covers is located at the second side of the corresponding head. |
| US08632157B2 |
Inkjet recording device
An inkjet recording device for ejecting ink onto a recording medium to form an image on the recording medium while a recording head is moved with relative movement to the recording medium in a direction along an upper surface of the recording medium, including: a recording head for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; a heating device for heating the recording medium; a conveyance device for conveying the recording medium having been heated by the heating device to under the recording head; and a cooling device which is provided in a state of insulation from the recording head, and has a cooling surface which is cooled to a temperature lower than a temperature of a nozzle surface of the recording head, wherein the cooling surface and the nozzle surface of the recording head are disposed along a direction of the relative movement and to face the recording medium. |
| US08632149B2 |
Inkjet printhead and method of printing with multiple drop volumes
A printhead and a method of ejecting liquid droplets are provided. The method includes providing a printhead operable to eject liquid drops having a plurality of drop volumes Vi, for i equal to 1 through n, where n≧2, with Vj>Vi when j>i. One of the plurality of drop volumes is a minimum drop volume Vmin, and a difference in drop volumes between successively larger drops equals (Vk+1−Vk) which is less than Vmin, for k equal to 1 through n−1. The method also includes ejecting liquid drops through the printhead. |
| US08632145B2 |
Method and apparatus for printing using a facetted drum
The disclosure generally relates to a method and apparatus for printing from a rotating source. In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosure relates to a facetted drum for simultaneously printing multiple pixels. The facetted drum includes a support structure and a plurality of printheads affixed to the support structure, each printhead having at least one microporous structure for receiving a first quantity of liquid ink having dissolved or suspended film material in a carrier fluid and dispensing a second quantity of ink material substantially free of the carrier fluid. The plurality of printheads are positioned proximal to a substrate to simultaneously print a plurality of spatially-discrete and image-resolved pixels on the substrate. |
| US08632143B2 |
Sliding supports
The present invention relates to sliding supports and particularly sliding supports having two elongate members of channel section and an intermediate member positioned between the elongate members. The invention provides a sliding support with improved manufacturability and load bearing capability by providing an intermediate member of alternative cross-section. |
| US08632142B2 |
Undermount-type sliding apparatus equipped with automatic closing device
A undermount-type sliding apparatus having an automatic closing device includes a movable rail provided under a receptacle and a fixed rail slidably coupled to the movable rail. A housing body is disposed on the fixed rail. A guide wall includes a curved guide portion, which has a curved shape and is spaced apart from one end of a housing space. A linear guide portion is connected to the curved guide portion. A rotary stopper is inserted into and guided by the guide wall while being caught by and released from the movable rail. An elastic member is disposed in the housing body, and is elastically coupled to the rotary stopper. In a closing operation, the rotary stopper catches the movable rail, and is thus automatically closed by elasticity. When positioned in the opening direction, the movable rail is released from the rotary stopper to enable an opening operation. |
| US08632140B2 |
Computer housing structure
A housing structure includes a main cabinet and a fixing mechanism. The main cabinet has an opening formed thereon and includes a side panel and a front panel. A groove is formed on the edge portion of the front panel adjacent to the side panel. A receiving slot is formed on the front panel and adjacent to the groove. The fixing mechanism includes a latch and an elastic member. The latch may be movably disposed on the side panel. A first hook is formed on the latch. When covering the opening with the side panel, the latch is abutted by the front panel. The restoration of the elastic member interlocks the side panel to the front panel securely to close the housing structure. |
| US08632133B2 |
Water sprays for dust control on mining machines
This invention refers to innovative water sprays applications to significantly improve coal and quartz dust control around a continuous miner. Significant dust control is achieved through utilizing different types of sprays at locations on the top and sides of the miner chassis to create water curtains or shrouds of water around zones of high dust concentration and zones of high concentration dust transport. This is called “multiple lines of defense” spray system (MLD.) This invention also provides a method of reducing dust around a continuous miner by configuring a spray system, located at the top or sides of the cutter boom, thereby improving control of respirable dust. |
| US08632132B2 |
Adaptive advance drive control for milling machine
A control system for a construction machine senses the reaction forces applied by the ground surface to a milling drum, and in response to the sensed changes in those reaction forces controls the rate of feeding the milling drum into the ground surface. |
| US08632130B2 |
Chair-specific adjustment device
A chair-specific adjustment device is provided. The device includes a seat support and a base support linked to a gas column on which there is a rotating user-controlled handle. The handle controls the selection of the adjustment device's angular position as well as a safety limit clutch. The rotation of the handle generates traction of a tensional element that moves a limit switch. The limit switch runs transversely to the seat support and is shaped with steps that selectively interact with a limit appendage linked to the base support. The device includes a torsion bar that elastically limits the movement of the base support. As such, the device provides quick and easy adjustment of the backrest extension into various positions. |
| US08632128B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat includes a reclining mechanism having a lock member, which is engaged with a ring member when it is pressed by a cam body, and a walk-in mechanism. A rotating arm, which is rotated by operation of a reclining lever or a walk-in lever, is secured to a center shaft. The reclining lever operates the rotation of the rotating arm by a link lever having a slot. The walk-in lever operates the rotation of the rotating arm independently of the reclining lever. When a seatback is tilted forward by the operation of the walk-in lever, the slide mechanism of the vehicle seat is unlocked, and the entire seat is moved forward. |
| US08632126B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat is provided that includes a seat back frame, a headrest, a pressure receiving member that supports the body of the occupant and moves independently from the headrest, and pivoting members that are disposed in at least one of side portions of the seat back frame, are linked to the pressure receiving member, and can move independently from the headrest under a predetermined impact load. The entirety of the pressure receiving member moves toward the rear of the vehicle under a predetermined impact load that is greater than a normal seating load. |
| US08632125B2 |
Headrest device, method of adjusting headrest position, and vehicle seat
There is provided a headrest device including: a headrest main body that is provided at an upper end portion of a seat back of a seat in which a passenger sits; a pressure/flexure detecting section that is provided at a vehicle front side of the seat back; a headrest moving section; and a control section that estimates a current back-set, that is a distance between a head portion of a passenger and the headrest main body in a horizontal direction, on the basis of at least one of pressure and flexure detected by the pressure/flexure detecting section and a predetermined relationship between back-set and the at least one of pressure and flexure, and controls the headrest moving section to move the headrest main body such that the back-set becomes a predetermined amount. |
| US08632124B2 |
Reclining ride down child seat
The child safety seat includes a seat body having a seat bottom and a seat back. The seat bottom is slidably connected to a first portion of the base and the seat back is slidably connected to a second portion of the base. The seat body is movable relative to the base, namely, between a resting position and ride down position. A dampening member is connected between the seat body and the base for dampening/retarding the movement of the seat body from the resting position to the ride down position. The dampening member is preferably partially oriented yarn that is no longer usable after use, such as in the event of an accident. The recline angle of the seat body relative to the base is adjustable. |
| US08632123B2 |
Ganging cup-holder
A ganging cup-holder 10 is described herein and illustrated by the accompanying figures. The ganging cup-holder 10 is intended for use with two adjacent temporary seating chairs 102 to (1) temporarily secure the two adjacent chairs 102 in a substantially fixed position relative to one another and (2) to provide a convenient location for the placement of items, to prevent damage or loss of items or to prevent spillage of the contents of an item. |
| US08632120B2 |
Universal latch mechanism
A latch mechanism for removably coupling at least one transparent armor assembly being in a vehicle window sill, the at least one transparent armor assembly including a frame that supports at least one transparent armor pane, the latch mechanism includes a latch mechanism assembly, the latch mechanism assembly being selectively operable by a vehicle occupant for effecting release of the at least one transparent armor assembly, such release permitting shifting of the at least one transparent armor assembly from the vehicle window frame to define an egress portal and the latch mechanism having an engaging member for selectively engaging the vehicle window frame, latch mechanism assembly being shiftable relative to the transparent armor assembly frame for accommodating a plurality of varying transparent armor assembly to vehicle window frame relationships. A method for removably coupling at least one transparent armor assembly to a vehicle window sill is further included. |
| US08632116B2 |
Anti-theft device for an access door
A door includes an exterior-facing surface, an inner structure, and a latch mechanism. The door also includes a key-cylinder attached to and accessible from the exterior-facing surface, and adapted to selectively lock and unlock the latch mechanism, and a pawl adapted to be rotated by the key-cylinder to unlock the latch mechanism. Furthermore, the door includes a feature arranged on the inner structure and aligned with the key-cylinder, and a component connected to the key-cylinder, aligned with and extending into the feature without contacting the inner structure. The component is configured to not impede the rotation of the pawl when the component is aligned with the feature. Additionally, the component is configured to restrict angular movement of the key-cylinder with respect to the door, when the key-cylinder is forcibly manipulated thereby causing the component to contact the inner structure. |
| US08632112B2 |
Workpiece displacement system
A method of operation of a workpiece displacement system includes: providing a head including a conduit, a recess port, and a channel, the conduit configured such that its major axis intersects the recess port and the channel; inserting a force distribution member into the recess port; and supplying a negative pressure state through the head and the force distribution member. |
| US08632111B2 |
Apparatus and method for facilitating handling pipe
An apparatus for handling a pipe having a body, the body defining an open throat that is adapted to receive a pipe, a plurality of jaws hingedly mounted to the body that are adapted to engage a pipe while preventing the pipe from engaging the body, each of the jaws defining a concave portion that is adapted to engage the pipe, the apparatus further including respective over-center mechanisms that are arranged between and operatively coupled to the body and each one of the plurality of jaws, each respective over-center mechanism being adapted to inhibit a respective one of the plurality of jaws from closing when jaws are open and to inhibit a respective one of the plurality of jaws from opening and disengaging from a pipe when the jaws are closed on the pipe. |
| US08632109B2 |
Waste retrieval and disposal device and method
A method for disposing of waste material, where the head of a frame is inserted in a bag until a closed front edge of the bag receives a leading edge of the head and the head is at least substantially contained within the bag, with the head fitting loosely within the bag along its side edges. The rear edge of the top panel of the bag is connected to the frame. After the waste material is received on the top panel, and while maintaining the connection between the rear edge of the top panel and the frame, the bag is inverted by moving the rear edge of the bottom panel frontwardly of the head and of the front edge of the bag before moving the rear edge of the bottom panel rearwardly over the top panel, the head and the waste material. |
| US08632108B2 |
Crash box
A crash box for arrangement between a bumper and a longitudinal beam of a motor vehicle body is provided. The crash box is able to be arranged with a fastening profile at least partially overlapping to a mount profile of the longitudinal beam. The crash box has a support element, which penetrates the fastening profile transversely to its profile longitudinal direction (x) and is able to be brought into abutment in a supporting manner with an end section of the mount profile. |
| US08632106B2 |
Drive unit comprising a blocked functional element for a central locking mechanism
A drive unit (1) comprising at least one electric drive motor (2) that moves a functional element (3), wherein the functional element (3) assumes, during its movement, a stop position (4) for switching off an electric drive motor (2), and at least one frictional element (6) cooperating with the functional element (3), wherein the frictional element (6) is disposed along a segment of a motion pathway (5) before the functional element (3) reaches the stop position (4). In addition, a motor vehicle lock (10) having a central locking mechanism (11) with such a drive unit (1). |
| US08632105B2 |
Tension clamp
Tension clamp and a method of clamping with the tension clamp. The tension clamp includes a clamping band formed in an annular manner with two ends adjacent to one another, and a clamping fixture, structured and arranged to connect the two ends to one another, comprising a tightening screw with a screw head and a mounting section and a mating thread element into which the tightening screw is screwable. The mounting section includes at least one flexible region along its length. |
| US08632103B2 |
Lock for cam-and-groove coupler
A lock for a cam-and-groove coupler comprises a collar member positionable around the cam-and-groove coupler. The collar member comprises at least first and second wall portions. The first wall portion is positionable adjacent the first lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the first lever arm to an unsecured position. The second wall portion is positionable adjacent a second lever arm of the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent movement of the second lever arm to the unsecured position. The lock further comprises at least one projection extending inwardly from the collar member and configured to engage the cam-and-groove coupler to prevent the collar member from sliding off of the cam-and-groove coupler. At least one securing member is coupled to the collar member and configured to releasably secure the collar member around the cam-and-groove-coupler. |
| US08632099B2 |
Tank trailer having an air actuated handrail assembly
A handrail assembly for a tank trailer and a yoke assembly for the same. Handrail assembly provides a safety device for an operator walking along a top wall of the tank trailer. The handrail assembly includes a top rail, a plurality of vertical members, a safety wire and, sometimes, a bottom rail. Each yoke assembly secures one of the top and bottom ends of the vertical members to either of the top and bottom rails or to a mounting bracket on the tank. Each yoke assembly includes a base member engaged partially in a bore of the vertical member, and a cradle member engaged with an exterior wall of the top or bottom rails or mounting bracket. Base and cradle members are secured together by a pivot pin. Fluid-actuated cylinders extending between the vertical members and the tank move the handrail assembly between collapsed and expanded positions. |
| US08632098B2 |
Improvements relating to steering assemblies
An adjustable steering column assembly includes a first shroud portion comprising an outer tube, a second shroud portion which comprises an inner tube, and a clamp mechanism that includes a part that is fixed relative to the outer tube, the first and second shroud portions being releasably engaged by the clamp mechanism to selectively permit an amount of relative movement between the first and second shroud portions that is required during adjustment of the steering column assembly, the assembly further including an energy absorbing member which includes a strap that interconnects the inner tube and the part of the clamp bolt assembly, the assembly being so arranged that upon collapse the inner tube moves relative to the clamp assembly whereupon the energy absorbing member is deformed beyond its elastic limit, thereby absorbing energy in the system to control the collapse of the assembly. |
| US08632093B2 |
Airbag protection device for a vehicle occupant restraint system and method of manufacturing an airbag protection device
The invention relates to an airbag protection device (10) for a vehicle occupant restraint system that includes an airbag mounting device (12). The airbag mounting device (12) includes first and second mounting members (14) which are mounted to the vehicle (100) spaced apart from each other and a cross-member (16) made of bent wire. An airbag (22) is mounted to the cross-member (16) in the folded state. |
| US08632092B2 |
Rollator having an adjustable seat orientation
A rollator includes a support frame assembly, a seat having first and second positioning notches, and a backrest unit including a backrest frame having two opposite ends pivoted to the support frame assembly, and a positioning frame having two opposite ends pivoted to the backrest frame. The positioning frame is engageable with a selected one of the first and second positioning notches. The backrest frame cooperates with the seat unit to define a seating space that faces rearward when the positioning frame is engaged with the first positioning notch, and cooperates with the seat unit to define a seating space that faces forward when the positioning frame is engaged with the second positioning notch. |
| US08632091B2 |
Drawbar pin retention device
In an example embodiment, an automatic engaging drawbar pin retention device includes a biased locking plate configured to retain a drawbar pin within a drawbar bore. The locking plate may be movably coupled to a drawbar clevis between a pin-lock to at least partly cover the bore and prevent removal of the drawbar pin and a pin-unlock condition. |
| US08632089B1 |
Mechanism for converting reciprocal motion to rotary motion
A mechanism for converting reciprocal motion to rotary motion. A pair of driving members are mounted to undergo reciprocal up-and-down movement about a first axis. A pair of driving chains are drivingly connected to the respective driving members so that reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members transmits respective driving forces to the driving chains. A driven member is mounted for undergoing rotational motion in one direction of rotation about a second axis different from the first axis. A drive unit transfers, via the driving forces of the driving chains, reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members to rotational motion of the driven member in the one direction of rotation. |
| US08632087B2 |
Energy coil system for vehicles
Exemplary embodiments of a bicycle are provided comprising a bicycle frame having a front wheel support section, a rear wheel support section and a center section. The bicycle includes a rear wheel rotatably coupled to the rear wheel support section. The bicycle further includes a front wheel having a hub rotatably coupled to the front wheel support section, the hub being configured and integrated with an energy coil system that stores energy during a forward revolving movement of the front wheel, and when the energy is fully stored, the energy coil system is locked until selectively released. |
| US08632083B2 |
Drift scooter
A drift scooter comprising a longitudinal frame including opposed leading and trailing end portions. A steering assembly is pivotably disposed on the leading end portion and includes a transverse member with two wheels rotatably supported on opposite ends of the transverse member. A stem is fixed in perpendicular orientation relative to the transverse member and a handlebar is connected to the stem. A rear wheel assembly is pivotably disposed on the trailing end portion, wherein the wheel assembly pivots about an upwardly extending pivot axis. The rear wheel assembly is preferably biased toward a centered position, aligned with a centerline of the frame. A resilient member is connected between the frame and a leading portion of the caster. The resilient member may be in the form of an extension spring. Means for adjusting the tension of the extension spring may also be included. |
| US08632082B2 |
Pallet truck with lift indicator assembly and associated methods
A lift indicator assembly for a pallet truck includes a lift sensor assembly, and a lift status display for determining a lift condition of a load wheel of the pallet truck. The lift sensor assembly is to be carried by a fork of the pallet truck and includes a housing section, and a primary sensor assembly. The primary sensor assembly includes a first primary arm coupled to the housing section, and a first primary contact switch carried by the housing section and adjacent the first primary arm. The first primary contact switch has an engaged position and a disengaged position based on position of the first primary arm. The lift status display determines the lift condition of the load wheel based on position of the first primary contact switch. |
| US08632081B2 |
Transport car with anti-theft protection
A transport car with rollers, all of which are steerable, for which an activatable anti-theft protection is provided. With the anti-theft protection, two or more of the rollers may be fixed in a predetermined steering position whereby the angle which the rollers are fixed at relative to a longitudinal axis of the transport cart is different between the two or more rollers. |
| US08632078B2 |
Vehicle with a leaf spring element for the spring suspension of the vehicle
A vehicle, such as a passenger car, is provided with a vehicle frame having a leaf spring element for the spring suspension of the vehicle, which is mounted on the vehicle frame with two bearing points, which are designed in a manner to adjustably set a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element. The leaf spring element is mounted on a frame of the vehicle with the two bearing points and the bearing points are designed adjustable for setting a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element. |
| US08632074B2 |
Method of forming a brush seal
This invention relates to a method of forming brush seals and to brush seals themselves. Thus a back plate 10, which defines an anchor recess 11, a reservoir recess 12 and a land 13 is laid horizontally. A bristle pack 14 is then laid on top of the back plate 10, so that one end 15 overlies a recess 11 and the other, 16, projects beyond the land 13. The bristles are then clamped in position by clamp 21 and epoxy resin is poured into the recess 11 as indicated by the arrows. A mold is introduced over the recess. Once the resin is cured, the mold can be removed and it will be noted that excess epoxy resin has fallen into the recess 12 preventing resin wicking beyond the land 13 and interfering with the performance of the bristles. |
| US08632071B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus is provided that, even when a recording material is conveyed with a short interval between papers, reduces mistaken detection of a jam without reducing throughput of image formation. To accomplish this, when an interval between papers is not detected by a sensor that is disposed upstream in a conveyance direction but is detected by a sensor that is disposed downstream in the conveyance direction, there is a high possibility of determining that a jam has been generated in which recording material wraps around a fixing roller, but even in such a case, discharge processing is executed normally without a determination that a jam has been generated in which recording material has wrapped around a fixing roller, by using a recording material size and a time period of detection of the interval between papers. |
| US08632069B2 |
Image forming device with recarrying path
An image forming device, comprising: a main body; an image formation unit; and a re-carrying path along which a sheet-like medium on which the image has been formed is carried again to the image formation unit. In this configuration, the re-carrying path comprises: a first path formed to extend downward; a bending part formed to bend from a lower end of the first path toward an upstream side of the image formation unit; and a second path formed to extend from the bending part toward the upstream side of the image formation unit. A pair of re-carrying rollers which carry the sheet-like medium are provided on the second path. A recessed part formed to be recessed downward with respect to a common tangential line of the pair of re-carrying rollers is provided on the second path between the bending part and the pair of re-carrying rollers. |
| US08632059B2 |
Dispersing fragrances
A fragrance disperser in one form includes a single fan that passes air over a wicked single or double fragrance. A second form has the fan reversible to provide two different airstreams that evaporate respective different fragrances one after the other. Where two fragrances are provided, the evaporation may be by respective electrical heaters. A fragrance source may be formed by two sheets joined together to form two chambers each receiving a respective wick and having respective exposed wick portions. The source may incorporate a source of electrical power. An alternative source has a reservoir for fragrance and a wick located in an air passage forming part of the source so that an air flow is guided through the passage past the wick to evaporate fragrance. Where two fragrances are provided, the fragrance sources may be located side-by-side and matching fragrances may have, for example, matching indicia on the sources so that the match can be easily determined visually. |
| US08632057B2 |
Diaphragm carburetor
The present invention provides a diaphragm carburetor wherein heat transferred from the engine to the carburetor through the insulator is reduced to lower the temperature of the carburetor unit and reduce the occurrence of bubbles in the fuel. The carburetor of the present invention is a diaphragm carburetor in which a fuel channel that extends from a pump chamber of the carburetor to a constant-pressure fuel chamber is divided into two branches to form one branch as a main fuel channel connected to the constant-pressure fuel chamber, and the other branch as a fuel circulation channel for passing the fuel through the body side surface of the carburetor on the insulator side, or the body side surface of the insulator on the carburetor side, causing the fuel to make a circuit around the carburetor, and returning the fuel to the fuel tank. |
| US08632055B2 |
Combined car jack and lug wrench assembly
A combined car jack and lug wrench assembly is provided that includes a driving lever configured to be used both to engage a driving head for operating a hydraulic system of the car jack and to be used as a spanner of a lug wrench assembly. The assembly can include a car jack body, a socket storage assembly disposed on the body for housing wrench sockets, and a lever storage assembly disposed on a sidewall of the body configured to secure the driving lever along a sidewall of the body, when not in use. |
| US08632050B2 |
Electromagnetic actuating unit
An electromagnetic actuating unit for a hydraulic valve with a housing and a closure element. The housing at least partially delimits the electromagnetic actuating unit in relation to the surroundings. The closure element is arranged within an introductory opening of the housing. A sealing-means receptacle is formed on a boundary surface between the housing and the closure element. Furthermore, at least one first channel leads into the sealing-means receptacle and is open towards the surroundings of the actuating unit. A sealing element, which is arranged in the sealing-means receptacle is placed into the sealing-means receptacle via the first channel. |
| US08632046B2 |
Mounting apparatus for fan
A mounting apparatus for a fan includes a bracket, two fixing members, two screws, and a shield plate. The bracket includes a fixing plate defining a vent and two first through holes adjacent to opposite ends of a top of the vent. The screws extend through the fixing members and the first through holes of the bracket, in that order, for engaging in an upper portion of the fan arranged behind the fixing plate, with the vent aligning with the fan. A top of the shield plate is rotatably connected between the fixing members. The shield plate hangs vertically by gravity to cover the vent upon a condition that the gravity of the shield plate is not overcome by airflow passing through the vent. |
| US08632045B2 |
Movable base with wheels deployable by reversible driving assembly
A ratchet assembly includes an elongated shaft, a gear housing, a ratcheting member, and an arm. The elongated shaft can have a gear and be supported by the gear housing to allow rotation about a primary axis of the shaft. The ratcheting member can mount in the housing and be biased toward the gear to engage with the gear hindering relative rotation about the shaft axis in a first direction and allowing rotation about the shaft axis in a second direction opposite the first direction. The ratcheting member can rotatably mount within the housing about a second axis. The arm can couple to the gear housing in a first configuration to provide torque to rotate the housing about the shaft axis in the first direction when the arm is pressed downward. The arm can also be coupled to the gear housing in a second configuration to rotate the housing about the shaft axis in a second direction opposite the first direction when the arm is pressed downward. |
| US08632044B2 |
Picture anchor and method
A picture anchor may include a fastener such as a pin, nail or tack and a non-metallic bumper pad connected to the non-sharp end of the fastener. The anchor is adapted so a back surface of the bumper pad may be attached to a back surface of an object for hanging. A user may then press the object for hanging against the mounting surface, such as a drywall surface, to force the sharp end of the fastener to penetrate the surface thereby anchoring the object to the wall. The bumper pad(s) will provide a uniform space between the hanging object and the mounting surface and serve as a shock absorber to prevent the hanging object from vibrating or rattling. |
| US08632042B2 |
Tilt and swivel mounting for monitors and other devices
A tilt and swivel mounting device may include a base member, a first disc in contact with the base member, and a second disc in contact with the first disc. The first disc may be restricted to moving substantially in a first direction relative to the base member. The second disc may be restricted to moving substantially in a second direction, wherein the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction relative to the first disc. A cover may be attached to the base member for housing the first and second discs in an assembly compressible in response to a user rotatable control. A support base may be attached to an axial shaft, and the axial shaft may be axially coupled to the assembly. |
| US08632040B2 |
Low profile mounting of electronic devices
An apparatus that includes a support beam that spans a distance along a first surface of a planar object. The apparatus also includes a mounting bracket that includes a channel shaped to receive at least a portion of the support beam to suspend the mounting bracket from the support beam. The mounting bracket also includes at least one mounting point configured to attach the mounting bracket to an electronic device. The apparatus further includes a trim bezel configured to attach to the electronic device. The trim bezel includes a trim bezel surface. The apparatus additionally includes a set screw coupled to the channel and the support beam. The set screw is configured to adjust a gap between the mounting bracket and the support beam to adjust the bezel surface with respect to a second surface of the planar object. |
| US08632032B2 |
Inverted airfoil pylon for an aircraft
An aircraft including a wing and a pylon, wherein the pylon provides an airfoil inverted for an airfoil of the wing, and an improvement and method for improved flight dynamics for 20 and 30 Series LEARJET® is provided. The improvement includes an increased distance between a leading edge of a wing and an intake of an engine of the aircraft, which reduces drag and increases lift for improved flight dynamics of the aircraft. The inverted airfoil of the pylon negates an influence of the pylon on flight dynamics for improved overall flight dynamics of the aircraft. The method includes steps of removing an original engine from an original pylon, removing the original pylon from the fuselage of the aircraft, and mounting a new pylon in a new location adjacent to the fuselage, wherein the new location is aft of the original location. |
| US08632029B1 |
Material crusher
A material crusher system including a body, a lid, an outlet, and a feed tube disposed through the lid for receiving particulate. The system can include a centrifugal assembly within the body for receiving and crushing the particulate. A motor can be connected to the centrifugal assembly for controlling a rotating plate. A variable frequency drive can be connected to the motor for optimizing a rotation speed of the rotating plate, thereby preventing over-crushing of the particulate. The system can include a plurality of anvil holders disposed around an anvil ring with an anvil in each anvil holder. Each anvil can be impacted by the particulate and a downdraft can carry the particulate from the anvil to the outlet. The system can include a gas purge system for pressurizing a shaft bearing on the motor, enabling for continuous use of the ultrafine material crusher system. |
| US08632023B2 |
Push button mechanism for showerhead control
A shower head includes a push-button operated rotatable valve having a plurality of positions including; a first position in which the shower head allows water to flow to a first function, a second position radially offset from the first position in which the shower head allows water to flow to a second function, a third position radially offset from the first position and the second position and to the first position, in which the shower head allows water to flow trickle through the shower head. |
| US08632021B2 |
Pump head assembly and pressure washer with such pump head assembly
The patent application relates to a pump head assembly. The pump head assembly includes a pump head which at least has a water inlet and a first water outlet between which a pressurizing unit is provided, and the pump head further includes a second water outlet, a throttle orifice is provided between the water inlet and the second water outlet, the throttle orifice is provided with a water outlet end and a water inlet end, the throttle orifice is provide with a liquid suction port, and a one way valve is provided on the liquid suction port. The pump head assembly realizes cleaning liquid suction by self-pressure of tap water, which lowers energy consumption, and effectively and reasonably saves energy sources. |
| US08632016B2 |
RFID chip employing an air gap buffer
An RFID tag incorporating an arched buffer such that the RFID inlay containing the RFID transponder is held away from the mounting surface. This has the advantage of reducing RF signal degradation caused by the electromagnetic properties of the material. |
| US08632013B2 |
Information retrieval using decoded machine-readable optical codes
A method is disclosed for reading a machine-readable optical code encoding information formed in an image that is presented to a user. The method includes using a processor to receive the image with the machine-readable optical code; using a graphic user interface to visually present the received image on a display; using the graphic user interface to receive a user selection of the machine-readable optical code; using a processor to decode the selected machine-readable optical code; and using the graphic user interface to present information referenced by the decoded information on the display. |
| US08632012B2 |
Focus adjustment with MEMS actuator in imaging scanner
A method and apparatus for using in an imaging scanner. The apparatus includes a solid-state imager, an imaging lens assembly comprising a base lens and a MEMS lens, and an electric circuitry operative to transfer the image captured by the solid-state imager to a decoding circuitry. The imaging lens assembly is configured to focus light reflected from the target object onto the array of photosensitive elements in the solid-state imager by passing the light reflected from the target object through the base lens followed by the MEMS lens. |
| US08632009B2 |
Near field magnetic coupling antenna and RFID reader having the same
A near field magnetic coupling antenna may include a plurality of annularly arranged radiators and an annular conductive portion. The annular conductive portion may include a plurality of conductive segments. A first gap may be formed between any two adjacent radiators. Each conductive segment may partially overlap two adjacent radiators and any two adjacent conductive segments may be separated by a second gap. Two adjacent radiators may be associated with a feed point and a ground point, respectively, and the feed point and the ground point may be disposed in the proximity of the first gap. |
| US08632006B2 |
Transaction card package assembly having enhanced security
A transaction card package assembly comprising a transaction card connected to a first panel via a releasable interface, wherein the first panel is affixed to a second panel such that upon releasing the interface, the first panel remains affixed to the second panel and the transaction card is released from the package assembly. |
| US08632003B2 |
Multiple persona information cards
A computer-implemented method can include selecting an information card from a group of identified information cards, selecting a persona from a group of identified personae that are associated with the selected information card, and generating a Request for Security Token (RST) based on the selected information card and the selected persona. |
| US08632002B2 |
Real-time security verification for banking cards
Embodiments of the invention provide a means for verifying that a person using a bank card at a point-of-sale merchant location is in fact a person authorized to use the bank card. In one embodiment of the invention, verification may involve communicating with the mobile device 103 associated with the person authorized to use the bank card. The person authorized to use the bank card may be required to send verification data to the bank card verification system via the mobile device to confirm a purchase. The bank card verification system may not authorize the purchase if the proper verification data is not received from the mobile device. In another embodiment, the bank card verification system may be configured to determine a proximity of the mobile device to the merchant point-of-sale location to verify the purchase. |
| US08631999B2 |
System and method for accepting closed loop cards and codes at a merchant point of sale
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for redeeming a closed loop card/code funded with an amount of money. The system receives from a merchant point of sale an indication of use of a closed loop card/code not issued by the merchant and presented by a consumer, queries and receives a confirmation of an amount of money in an account associated with the closed loop card/code, presents the consumer with an offer to buy the closed loop card/code at a discount price, and upon accepting the offer, closes out the closed loop card/code and pays the discount price to the consumer. Paying the discount price can include applying the discount price to a purchase by the consumer at the merchant. The merchant can provide cash back to the consumer for excess value of the discount price over the consumer's purchase. Merchants can apply more than the discount price. |
| US08631996B2 |
Composite of sheet metal parts
A composite of sheet metal parts on or for a vehicle comprises a first sheet metal part forming a first outer shell region and comprising a first joining region which projects from the first outer shell region via a bent transition towards an inner side of the composite. The composite further comprises a second sheet metal part forming a second outer shell region and comprising a second joining region which projects from the second outer shell region towards the inner side of the composite, the second joining region facing the first joining region. The composite also comprises a welding or soldering seam along which the sheet metal parts are connected, wherein the seam runs along or alongside a flange edge formed in the first joining region at a distance from the first outer shell region, a flange deviating from the first joining region along the flange edge. |