| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08641512B2 |
Apparatus for dice table games
An apparatus for dice table games aims to dynamically increase odds of a dice table game. The apparatus includes an electronic display panel which has at least one display zone to indicate a corresponding betting area and display dynamic raised odds. Banker can give a player a payout for his/her bet according to the dynamic raised odds. By providing the dynamic raised odds which might be greater than the payout odds of the betting area, the expected value of the dice table game is higher and players can expect extra awards from the disc table game, thus the appeal of the dice table game increases. As a result higher utilization of dice table game can be achieved and idle time can be reduced to avoid wastes. |
| US08641507B2 |
Tournament qualification and characteristics in a gaming system
A gaming system is disclosed that provides game play in a tournament in exchange for monetary input per game played. The gaming system includes: a game server, a plurality of game units, and a tournament administration controller. Each game unit is a game of chance or other game that does not rely primarily on the skill of the player. The casino-based game units enable the play of linked wheel games. The tournament administration controller enables an operator to designate tournament characteristics. |
| US08641505B2 |
Gaming system, gaming device, and method for providing a directional symbol evaluation game
In one embodiment, a gaming system which may randomly generate a plurality of directional symbols. Each directional symbol may have an input direction and an output direction. The gaming system may analyze the generated directional symbols to determine whether any formed sets, chains or sequences of compatible directional symbols are associated with any awards. More specifically, the gaming system may determine whether to form any sets of compatible directional symbols based on if one or more input directions of one or more of the generated directional symbols are compatible with one or more output directions of one or more of the generated directional symbols. The gaming system then may determine and may provide a player an award based on one or more of any formed sets of compatible directional symbols. |
| US08641500B2 |
System and method for an interactive lottery game over a network
A system and method for increasing player odds at the expense of sharing the jackpot. The interactive lottery game consists in forming as many closed groups as possible, i.e., paid lottery entries, by having players wager small amounts in opened groups, i.e., unpaid lottery entries, before the day of the jackpot draw. Three levels of play are controlled by the system: i) random group play, chosen by players to place wagers; ii) customized group play, chosen by players to close specific groups; and iii) interactive group play for players transferring wagers from players' opened groups to other groups according to game strategies. This is a wiser lottery game because represent higher return on investment for players while increasing house profitability. It defines a new interactive lottery game accessible from any portable device or personal computer as long as players are connected to a network. |
| US08641496B2 |
System and method for conducting a game
A game system is provided that conducts a game having one or more players. In the game, players compete in a number of gaming sessions to achieve an ultimate goal. In one example, the ultimate goal is to win a race, with the players' progress in the race being influenced by each players' success within individual game sessions. In one example, at least one of the game sessions is a guts poker game played among a number of players. |
| US08641494B2 |
Ventilation device and frame system
A ventilation device comprises a body (11) having first and second ports (14, 15) and a ventilation passage (13) that extends through the body between the ports to allow airflow through the body. The ventilation device also comprises a noise attenuation device (21) arranged to attenuate noise transmission through the passage in at least one direction from the first to the second port. The noise attenuation device comprises at least one array (22, 23) of noise attenuation tubes disposed in the ventilation body. In one form, the noise attenuation device (21) include two arrays of attenuator tubes disposed on respective opposite sides of the passage (13). The tubes each have a mouth (27) that opens to the passage and a central axis that extends from the mouth in the direction of elongation of that tube. At least some of the tubes in the first array (20) oppose at least some of the tubes in the second array (23) with the central axes of the opposing tubes at the region of their mouths (27) being mutually inclined. |
| US08641491B2 |
Actuating device and heating or air conditioning unit
The invention relates to an actuating device comprising an operating control for positioning actuating elements, in particular in a heating or air conditioning unit and to a heating or air conditioning unit, in particular of a motor vehicle, comprising an actuating device. |
| US08641490B2 |
Vehicle air recirculation control device
An air recirculation control system is basically provided with a thermal sensing arrangement, a blower speed sensing arrangement, a recirculation door actuator and a control device. The thermal sensing arrangement detects a prescribed temperature condition. The blower speed sensing arrangement provides a prescribed blower signal indicative of a prescribed blower speed condition. The recirculation door actuator operates a recirculation door. The control device selectively activates the recirculation door actuator to switch between a normal air intake mode and a recirculation override mode based on the prescribed temperature condition detected by the thermal sensing arrangement and the prescribed blower signal received from the blower speed sensing arrangement. |
| US08641489B2 |
Air conditioning device for a vehicle comprising a network of de-icing ducts
A distribution housing including an upstream portion and a widened downstream portion along the transverse axis relative to the upstream portion, in which an air inlet formed in the upstream portion is adapted to correspond to an outlet of an air conditioning apparatus, first and second outlets formed in the downstream portion are respectively adapted to correspond with a duct network for distributing blown air towards a de-icing board and side louvers, first pipes connect the inlet to the first outlets and extend between separation walls of the ducts and side walls of the housing, and a second pipe connects the inlet to the second outlet and extends at least partially between the duct separation walls. The second pipe opens, on the air inlet side, at the center of the air inlet, and the first pipes open on both sides of the first pipe. The housing has a different profile along the plane between the first and second pipes. |
| US08641487B1 |
Poultry wing segmenting system and method of use
A method of poultry wing segmenting including providing a poultry wing segmenter system having a plurality of spaced shackles which hold the poultry wing suspended by their shoulder joints vertically positioned and presented to a horizontally rotatable wheel which has a plurality of circumferentially spaced lateral notched slots therearound, the rotatable wheel has a pair of annular slots into which cutting blades are positioned, a plurality of wing engaging members and guide members to bias and open the wing joints against cutting blades drawn through the annular to produce separate poultry wing segments of drumette, flat, and tip. |
| US08641483B2 |
Systems with cooperating reruckers for producing encased products and related rerucker assemblies
Systems with reruckers configured to automatically reruck netting in an upstream direction on a netting chute or horn proximate in time to a clipping operation to pull a clipped end portion of the netting snugly against a discharge end of the chute or horn. |
| US08641481B2 |
Reinforced bonded abrasive tools
Bonded abrasive tools, e.g., grinding wheels, can be reinforced using, for instance, one or more fiberglass web(s) having a surface of glass per unit of at least 0.2. Alternatively or in addition, the fiberglass web has a thickness of 2 mm or less. The web can be designed to provide improved adhesion between the fiberglass reinforcement and the mixture employed to form the bonded abrasive tool. In some examples, the middle reinforcement at the neutral zone of the wheel can be eliminated or minimized. |
| US08641480B2 |
Polishing apparatus and polishing method
A polishing apparatus can effectively prevent abrasive particles from falling off a polishing tape during polishing. The polishing apparatus includes: a polishing head for polishing a peripheral portion of a substrate by pressing a surface of a polishing tape, having abrasive particles fixed on the surface, against the peripheral portion of the substrate while allowing the polishing tape to travel in one direction; and a conditioning apparatus, disposed upstream of the polishing head in the traveling direction of the polishing tape, for conditioning the surface of the polishing tape in advance in order to prevent the abrasive particles from falling off the surface of the polishing tape during polishing. |
| US08641477B2 |
Stent and method and device for fabricating the stent
Stent, as well as a method and device for fabricating the stent, wherein the stent has a tubular lattice structure comprising individual struts and at least one strut of which at least one longitudinal section runs with at least one directional component in the radial circumferential direction of the stent, wherein the surface of the longitudinal section facing the outside of the stent is curved only about the longitudinal axis of the stent. According to the invention, the surface of longitudinal section of the strut, which surface faces the inside of the stent, has such a curvature that the strut cross section is fluidically optimized. |
| US08641475B1 |
Bra cup with an air bag
A bra cup with an air bag contains a body including an inner cup portion and an outer cup portion hot pressed together. The inner cup portion has a first elastic layer having a first connecting face for connecting with the outer cup portion. The inner cup portion also has an inner layer hot embossed and connected with the first elastic layer. The outer cup portion has a second elastic layer having a second connecting face for connecting with the inner cup portion. The outer cup portion also has an outer layer hot embossed and connected with the second elastic layer. At least one screen adhesive is connected between the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion of the body. An air bag is connected between the inner cup portion and the outer cup portion of the body. |
| US08641474B2 |
Toy play set
A toy play set comprising a master toy member and two or more accessory toy members. The master toy member comprises a power source, an audio driving circuit and an audio transducer. Each of said accessory toy member is configured to receive power from said master toy member by contact and to provide visual response and/or an audio sound through a speaker located at said master toy member. |
| US08641471B2 |
System and method for toy adoption and marketing
A method, system and toy that provides a product that is represented on a website via a virtual replica of the product. The product has a registration code associated with it. Data associated with the product is electronically stored in the product using an electronic storage medium. A user is registered on the website by associating the user with a user ID. The user ID is associated with the virtual replica of the product by utilizing the registration code. Access is granted to one or more features on the website in connection with the virtual replica of the product subsequent to input and validation of the registration code via the user ID without requiring additional entry of the registration code. |
| US08641469B2 |
Packaging method of light emitting device
A packaging method includes the following steps. A cover substrate is provided. A blocking dam having a first height is formed in the peripheral region of the cover substrate. The blocking dam has a second height after being hardened. A sealant surrounding the blocking dam and having a third height is formed. An encapsulation glue is filled in the active region of the cover substrate, and blocked by the blocking dam. A device substrate is provided, and a compression process is performed on the device substrate and the cover substrate. After the compression process, a buffer space is formed between the blocking dam and the sealant and between the cover substrate and the device substrate to accommodate the encapsulation glue spilling out of the active region of the cover substrate. The sealant is hardened, so that the cover substrate and the device substrate are bonded together through the sealant. |
| US08641466B2 |
Infant water ski apparatus and method
A platform board is shown which allows a small child or infant to learn the art of water skiing. The platform is wide enough to accommodate at least the width of two foot grips located on an upper surface of the platform. A handle bar extending upwardly from the upper surface of the platform from a location in front of the foot grips. The handle bar includes a grip portion which can be adjusted to lie in a horizontal plane at a height which allows the grip portion to be conveniently gripped by a small child or infant. The platform board is manufactured similarly to a surfboard that will support the weight of a child prior to acceleration of an associated towing craft. |
| US08641462B2 |
Outboard motor control apparatus
In an apparatus for controlling operation of an outboard motor having an internal combustion engine and a transmission selectively changeable in gear position to establish speeds including a first speed and a second speed and transmitting power of the engine to the propeller with a gear ratio determined by established speed, it is configured to control operation of the transmission to change the gear position to the first or second speed in response to an outputted speed change command, determine whether an engine speed is continuously equal to or greater than a predetermined speed for a predetermined time period when the speed change command to the first speed is outputted, and when the determination is affirmative, change the gear position from the first speed to the second speed. With this, it becomes possible to mitigate the load on a transmission gear to improve durability of the transmission. |
| US08641460B2 |
Mounting component, electronic device, and mounting method
A mounting component has a conductive member. The conductive member includes a press-fitting unit that is linearly extended and press-fitted in a housing, two electrode portions that are arrayed in a direction in which the press-fitting unit is press-fitted and soldered onto pads, and a connection portion that is extended in parallel with the press-fitting unit to connect the two electrode portions. |
| US08641456B2 |
Connector with grounding and power contacts
A connector comprises an insulative housing having a main body with an inserting cavity and a plurality of contacts received in the insulative housing. The contacts have two grounding contacts and two power contacts, each grounding contact is formed with a plurality of first contacting portion, and each power contact is formed with a plurality of second contacting portion. The first contacting portions of the first and the second grounding contacts are alternately disposed within the inserting cavity and located in a first row, the second contacting portions of the first and the second power contacts are alternately disposed within the inserting cavity and located in a second row, the first row is closer to a front opening of the inserting cavity than the second row. |
| US08641455B2 |
Universal serial bus connector perpendicularly mounted on a printed circuit board
A Universal Serial Bus connector includes an insulating housing which has a base body, a first tongue and a second tongue extending forward from a lower portion and a bottom of the base body, a plurality of first terminals disposed in the first tongue and each having a contact slice, a plurality of second terminals disposed in the second tongue and each having an elastic arm electrically contacting with the corresponding contact slice, and a shell mounted rearward to the base body with the first tongue being located in the shell and the second tongue resisting under the shell. Soldering tails of the second terminals project out from a front end of the second tongue and are transversely in alignment with one another for being soldered onto a printed circuit board so as to make the Universal Serial Bus connector perpendicularly mounted to the printed circuit board. |
| US08641451B2 |
HDMI connector
A HDMI connector includes a metallic housing having two plates respectively extending downward from two opposite sides thereof, an insulated body mounted in the metallic housing, and a plurality of electrically conducting pins installed with the insulated body. The metallic housing has two legs each located in front of a respective one of the plates, each leg being integrally formed by cutting a portion of the metallic housing and bending the portion downward. Each leg has a base portion and a solder portion extending from the base portion to be electrically connected to a printed circuit board, wherein the base portion is formed substantially at a right angle with respect to the solder portion and has a dimension greater than the solder portion. The HDMI connector can save material in manufacturing and increase space availability. |
| US08641450B2 |
USB connector and connecting device with USB connector
A connecting device includes a protecting member, a base, a USB connector, and a covering member. The USB connector is mounted in the base. The covering member is secured to the base and covers the base. The covering member and the base are received and mounted in the protecting member. The USB connector comprises a body for securing a USB cable and a shelter surrounding the body; the shelter comprises a plurality of blocking pieces, and each of the plurality of blocking pieces abuts the protecting member, to prevent EMI from the body. |
| US08641448B2 |
Plug-in connection having shielding
The invention relates to a plug-in connection having shielding, in particular a multi-pin, multi-row plug-in connection comprising a male multipoint connector and a female multipoint connector, the plug-in connection comprising signal contacts, which are arranged in a contact pattern of differential pairs and which form a contact group together with an L-shaped shielding element that surrounds the signal contacts, the contact groups being arranged in rows and columns and adjacent contact groups in adjacent columns being offset from each other by a specifiable length dimension in the longitudinal direction of the columns, the plug-in connection being characterized in that the specified length dimension corresponds to approximately half the distance of two adjacent contact groups in a column. |
| US08641446B1 |
Coaxial probe
A coaxial probe is revealed. A protective sleeve is mounted in a sleeve port of a main sleeve. A leaning flange projecting inward is formed on a bottom end of a sleeve port of the main sleeve. The leaning flange is stopped and positioned by a stopping flange on an upper part of the protective sleeve. A probe is disposed on a sleeve port of the main sleeve and is passed through a sleeve port of a protective hole. Thus the probe is hidden in the protective sleeve. After the protective sleeve being in contact with a coaxial connector to be detected, the probe is moved to project from the protective sleeve for detecting the coaxial connector. Thereby damages of the probe caused by impact force received can be avoided. |
| US08641440B2 |
Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector is provided comprising a female member configured to couple with male member. The female member includes a female receptacle having an opening, and a female terminal is at least partially disposed within the female receptacle. At least one wall of the female receptacle is resiliently deformable to urge the female terminal together with a male terminal of a male member. |
| US08641439B2 |
Electrical connector
A simple structure capable of preventing a cam part of an actuator from coming out of position when the actuator is in an open position. The cam part 12a of the actuator 12 for rotating contacts 13 mounted inside an insulating housing 11 is provided with an engaging surface 12a2 which is a flat surface that faces cam lock protrusions 13a2 of second contact beams 13a when the actuator 12 is in the open position. Upon an external force or the like acting on the cam part 12a to come out of cam rotation recesses 13b3 when the actuator 12 is in the open position, the engaging surface 12a2 of the cam part 12a abuts on and makes locking engagement with the cam lock protrusions 13a2, so that the actuator 12 is prevented from coming out of position. |
| US08641438B2 |
Electronic device having card edge connector
In an electronic device, a slider is disposed in an insertion opening of a housing of a card edge connector. The slider is movable with an insertion operation of a circuit board into the insertion opening from an initial position before the circuit board is inserted to an insertion completed position where the insertion operation of the circuit board is completed by being pushed by the circuit board. When the slider is at the initial position, terminal projections are supported on a support surface of the slider in a resiliently deformed condition so that contacts are separated from an electrode-formed surface of the circuit board. When the slider is at the insertion completed position, the terminal projections are completely separated from the slider and in a state of applying a spring back force of resilient deformation to the circuit board through the contacts. |
| US08641435B2 |
Toy car USB memory storage device
A Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory device capable of being concealed within a housing exterior designed to resemble a toy car. The device has a USB connector, which can slide out of the rear end of the toy car and be inserted into a USB port on a computer to establish a communication link between the computer and the device. The headlights of the toy car will blink, when a connection is established Alternatively, the tires may spin and the sound of a revving car engine will be emitted from the device when the connection is established. The housing is capable of concealing the USB connector inside of the toy car exterior, making the device completely unrecognizable as a USB memory device. Concealment of the device is intended to discourage theft of the USB memory device and the sensitive information contained thereon. |
| US08641434B2 |
Rotatable feedthru insert
An electrical connector feedthru insert assembly may include a connector body having a first leg projecting from the body in a first direction and second and third legs projecting from the body in a second direction substantially opposing the first direction. The first leg may be configured for insertion into a bushing well in a transformer, the bushing well including a conductive stud therein. The first leg may include a longitudinal bore extending therethrough configured for alignment with the conductive stud in the bushing well upon insertion of the first leg into the bushing well, the longitudinal bore having a bolt passage portion and a first shoulder portion. The feedthru insert assembly may further include a bolt sized for insertion into the longitudinal bore and including a tool engagement shoulder portion to engage the first shoulder portion of the longitudinal bore. Application of rotational force to the tool engagement shoulder portion may cause the bolt to threadingly engage the conductive stud. |
| US08641432B2 |
Electrical power connector system including power rail
An electrical connector system includes a plurality of electrical connectors that can be mounted onto a powered rail. Each of the electrical connectors includes a connector housing that retains an electrical contact. The powered rail includes a tapered alignment guide that receives a complementary tapered arm of the connector housing that locates into the alignment guide so as to position the connectors to the rail. |
| US08641428B2 |
Electrical connector and method of making it
The present invention is an electrical connector in which a substrate (such as a printed circuit board or PCB) includes a plurality of apertures (or vias) and some of those apertures are filled with two materials to improve the characteristics of the electrical interconnection. The preferred process of crating the filled vias includes the steps of plating the vias with an electrically-conductive material to create an electrically-conductive path between portions of the substrate and components associated with the substrate and partially filling the apertures, then filling at least a portion of the apertures or vias with a second or different filling material to seal at least apart of the electrically conductive path through the plating. The second filling material may be chosen to provide thermal compensation for the connection. |
| US08641426B2 |
Coach board
A coach board has a mounting board, a transparent film, an attractive board and a box. The transparent film is connected to the mounting board so as to form an interlayer space between the transparent film and the mounting board. The attractive board is removably inserted into the interlayer space between the transparent film and the mounting board and has a court layer. The court layer is attached to the attractive board, is visible via the transparent film and is protected by the transparent film. The box is mounted on the mounting board and receives multiple magnets inside. Therefore, a coach can instruct tactics to players easily by putting the magnets on the transparent film corresponding to the court layer of the attractive board. |
| US08641423B2 |
Circumcision testing and training model
A model of an adult penis is provided for use in practicing and testing various circumcision procedures. The model includes a form in the approximate shape of an adult penis and a removable and replaceable practice foreskin positionable over the form. The form includes a glans component and a base component. A tube of flexible material is provided to form the artificial foreskin over the glans and base components. A method of forming an practice foreskin for use in testing and training a practitioner in circumcision procedures is also disclosed. |
| US08641422B2 |
Bone augmentation training system
The disclosed apparatuses, methods, and systems provide for simulations of real-life bone graft procedures. One embodiment is a model that includes a base in the shape of at least a portion of a maxillary or mandibular dental arch, and includes a defect on its surface. The model also includes a multi-layer tissue model configured to overlay at least a portion of the base in a covering relationship with the defect and surrounding tissue. The multi-layer tissue model includes a gingival simulating layer, connective tissue simulating layer, and two adhesive layers. The first of the two adhesive layers connects the connective tissue simulating layer to the gingival simulating layer, and the second adhesive layer, affixed to the connective tissue simulating layer opposite the first layer, is configured to adhere the multi-layer tissue model to the base. The multi-layer tissue model also includes a removable backing covering the second adhesive layer. |
| US08641420B2 |
Enhancement of live and simulated participant interaction in simulators
A simulated participant system is configured to interoperate with existing simulators to create an integrated simulation platform with enhanced capabilities to provide, on a readily-scalable basis, simulated participants of one or more different types that are based on dynamically constructed virtual models of live simulation participants. The system observes live participants as they train with a simulator using a closed-loop, self-training configuration by continuously monitoring conversations and actions to create and maintain the virtual models on-the-fly. The virtual models may then be utilized to generate simulated participants to stand in for the live participants when they are absent from future simulator training sessions. Because a simulated participant was virtually modeled from observations of a live participant, the simulated behaviors, as expressed by actions and responses, can typically closely match the expected behavior of the absent live participant. |
| US08641416B2 |
Syringe and method for dosed dispensing of materials
A syringe (1) for dosed dispensing of material, in particular of free-flowing and/or pasty dental material, includes a sleeve (10) for accommodating material and a piston (15) which can be inserted into the sleeve (10) and which has a piston member (15′), a frictional engagement element (25) which abuts an inner wall (35) of the sleeve (10), and an elastic element (30) coupling the frictional engagement element (25) and the piston 10 member (15′), wherein the sleeve (10) and the piston (15) inserted into the sleeve define an inner sleeve chamber (70) for accommodating the material, wherein the elastic element (30) can be tensioned, on insertion of the piston (15) and/or of the piston member (15′) into the sleeve (10), by means of a relative lag of the frictional engagement element (25) in relation to the piston member (15′), 15 wherein by relaxing the elastic element (30) it is possible for the piston member (15′) to be expelled at least partially from the sleeve (10) while the frictional engagement element (25) remains motionless, in order to increase the volume of the inner sleeve chamber (70). A corresponding method dispenses a material using a piston (15) and a frictionally engaging elastic element (20). |
| US08641413B2 |
Device for producing stable and augmented flame
A device for producing a stable and augmented flame includes a fluid-inducing assembly and a shield. The fluid-inducing assembly includes a flow-diverting mechanism defining a flow-intake end and a flow-accelerating end and includes a plurality of vanes extending from the flow-intake end to the flow-accelerating end. The plurality of vanes is circumferentially disposed and spaced from one another. Furthermore, two vanes include a space defined therebetween, and the space defines a passage which is spiral-shaped. The flow-diverting mechanism further includes a covering member with an enclosed circumferential edge circumferentially surrounded. Thus, each vane in the flow-accelerating end is encircled by the covering member, and each vane in the flow-intake end is exposed to outside and not covered by the covering member. In addition, the shield is hollow and is disposed above the fluid-inducing assembly. |
| US08641411B2 |
Method and apparatus for directing exhaust gas through a fuel-fired burner of an emission abatement assembly
A method of operating an emission abatement assembly includes separating the exhaust gas flow entering through the gas inlet port of the fuel-fired burner into a combustion flow which is advanced through the combustion chamber, and a bypass flow which bypasses the combustion chamber. An emission abatement assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08641410B2 |
Mold for footwear bottoms
A mold devised for molding of footwear bottoms, composed of overlapping layers made with expandible reticulable polyolefin material, as well as for molding of other manufactures with monolithic structure composed of overlapping layers of expandible reticulable polyolefin materials. |
| US08641407B2 |
Tubing expansion
A tubing expansion device is adapted to be advanced axially, without rotation, through tubing to be expanded. The device comprises a body and a plurality of expansion members mounted on the body, the expansion members being independently radially movable. The expansion members may be rotatable, or may be non-rotating. |
| US08641406B2 |
Device and partial mold for the production of rotor blades for wind power plants and methods for the production
A device for the production of rotor blades (1) for wind power plants with a multi-part manufacturing mold (20, 21, 22) for a rotor blade (1) that along a longitudinal extension, which extends from a rotor blade root (2) substantially to a rotor blade tip (3), has at least one area in which the rotor blade (1) has an aerodynamic airfoil section (4), which has an airfoil leading edge (5) and an airfoil trailing edge (6) that are connected via a suction side (8) and a pressure side (7) of the airfoil section (4), wherein at least two partial molds (21, 22; 34, 35) are provided for at least two shell parts (23, 24; 36, 37) of a rotor blade (1), of which a first shell part (23; 36, 37) and a second shell part (24; 36, 37) substantially lying flat on each other in the area of the airfoil trailing edge (6) are to be connected together. A corresponding partial mold (21, 22; 34, 35), and a method for the production of manufacturing molds (20) for rotor blades (1) and to the production of a rotor blade (1) are also disclosed. |
| US08641399B2 |
Injection molding system having a digital displacement pump
Injection molding system (20, 220, 320, 420) having hydraulic circuit (50, 250, 350, 450) for motivating hydraulic actuator (36, 38) comprising: pump motor (52); and digital displacement pump (54, 354A, 354B, 454A, 454B) having: piston assemblies (102A, 102B, 102C, 102D) actuatable by pump motor (52), piston assembly including: pair of inlet and outlets operable to be individually opened and closed at selective rate independently of actuation of each piston assembly; at least one hydraulic actuator (36, 38) operably coupled on each of rod side (64, 66) and cylinder side (58, 74) to first subset of the plurality of piston assemblies (102B, 102D) and second subset of the plurality of piston assemblies (102A, 102C), respectively. |
| US08641393B2 |
Thermally compensated scroll machine
A compressor may include first and second scroll members and a compensation member. The first scroll member may include a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending therefrom. The second scroll member may include a second end plate and a second spiral wrap. The second end plate may be positioned proximate to a distal end of the first spiral wrap. The first end plate may be positioned proximate to a distal end of the second spiral wrap. The compensation member may engage the first scroll member and having a first reaction to a temperature change causing the first scroll member to maintain a sealed relationship between the first end plate and the distal end of the second spiral wrap. |
| US08641392B2 |
Scroll compressor bodies with scroll tip seals and extended thrust region
A scroll compressor includes scroll compressor bodies with axial tip seals projecting from the respective scroll ribs of fixed and movable scroll compressor bodies. An extended thrust region is provided in surrounding relation to an inner axial tip sealing region to provide for carrying thrust loads in the event that the scroll compressor bodies are forced axially together. Part of the thrust region may carry a tip seal, while another part may be free of a tip seal. This provides for at least a nominal reverse operation capability. |
| US08641390B2 |
Linear rod pump apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for pumping fluids, such as water and/or hydrocarbons, from a subterranean formation or reservoir, include a linear rod pump having a mechanical rack and pinion drive arrangement, adapted for attachment to a pumping mechanism, such as the polished rod at the top of a rod string in a hydrocarbon well. The rack gear, of the rack and pinion drive arrangement, is adapted for connection to, and movement with, the polished rod. The pinion gear does not translate with the rack gear, and is driven by a reversible motor for affecting up and down reciprocating motion of the rack gear and pumping mechanism. Some forms of the invention include a compressible gas counter-balance arrangement. Some forms of the invention include an electronic drive configured for dealing with electric power generated by the motor during a portion of the pumping cycle. |
| US08641388B2 |
Household electric appliance having a piezoelectric pump
The invention relates to an electric household appliance comprising a pump having a pumping chamber (11) including a movable wall formed by a diaphragm (12) made of an electrically conductive material comprising an inner surface covered with at least one layer (21) made of an electrically insulating material, and an outer surface, in contact with a piezoelectric actuator (13), characterized in that power is supplied to said piezoelectric actuator (13) by the voltage of a domestic power grid without inserting an insulation transformer therebetween, and in that said inner surface of the metal diaphragm (12) is covered by at least one first electrically insulating layer (21), having flame retardant properties, and by two additional electrically insulating layers (22, 23) of a lower thickness. |
| US08641383B2 |
Pump and pump control circuit apparatus and method
Embodiments of the invention provide a method of controlling a pump. The method includes sensing a pressure in the pump and entering a low-flow mode when the sensed pressure in the pump is greater than a low pressure threshold. The method also includes reducing power to the pump when the sensed pressure is greater than a shut-off pressure during the low-flow mode and there is flow through the pump until the sensed pressure is less than the shut-off pressure. The method further includes turning the pump off when in the low-flow mode the sensed pressure is greater than the shut-off pressure and there is no flow through the pump. |
| US08641382B2 |
Turbocharger
A turbocharger includes a plurality of blades (7; 7′) which are arranged in a turbine casing (2). Each blade has the following: a profile underside (8; 8′) and a profile top side (9; 9′) which determine the blade thickness, a blade leading edge (10; 10′) at a first intersection of the blade underside (8; 8′) and the blade top side (9; 9′), a blade trailing edge (11; 11′) at a second intersection of the blade underside (8; 8′) and the blade top side (9; 9′), a profile center line (12; 12′) which is defined by the blade underside (8; 8′) and the blade top side (9; 9′) and runs between them from the blade leading edge (10; 11′) to the blade trailing edge (11; 11′), and in which the profile center line (12; 12′) runs in a wave-like manner. |
| US08641378B2 |
Impeller for water pump
A present invention's object is to maintain a discharge performance by making a discharge flow rate constant in a low rotation region of an engine rotation speed and to reduce the discharge flow rate in a high rotation region. The present invention consists of a housing case, an impeller base provided with plural holes and plural elliptical elongated holes, a vane body provided with a rotary shaft on an inner peripheral side and a rocking shaft on an outer peripheral side, a plate cam in which an elongated groove is formed on an outer peripheral side of a disc portion and a single torsion spring. The spring and the plate cam are housed in the housing case and the impeller base. The rotary shaft is inserted rotatably into the holes, and the rocking shaft is movably inserted into the elliptical elongated holes and the elongated groove. |
| US08641377B1 |
Industrial turbine blade with platform cooling
A turbine rotor blade for an industrial gas turbine engine with a platform cooling circuit that flows from the suction side of the platform and around both the leading edge and trailing edge of the platform, and then along the pressure side platform to cover the entire platform surface. The cooling air flows along smaller diameter cooling holes that cover substantially the entire pressure side platform surface and is then discharged out through openings onto the pressure side mate-face. |
| US08641376B2 |
Wind turbine and method of deicing wind turbine blade
A wind turbine is provided with a rotor including a plurality of blades and a deicing unit. The deicing unit performs a deicing operation only on one(s) of the plurality of blades, which has an azimuth angle within a predetermined range. The predetermined range is within a range from 90 to 270 degrees, and includes 180 degrees. Therefore, ice scattering is suppressed in deicing the wind turbine blades. |
| US08641374B2 |
Cleaning and inspecting apparatus for wind turbine and related methods
A maintenance apparatus is provided for use with a wind turbine that has a tower, a hub supported by the tower, and a plurality of blades extending outwardly from the hub. The maintenance apparatus has a mounting element that is configured to be secured to the tower and to be selectively movable along the length thereof. A robotic arm is coupled to the mounting element, and a blade-engaging device is coupled to the robotic arm and is configured to engage one of the blades to effect a maintenance task thereon. |
| US08641372B2 |
Charging device
The invention relates to a charging device (1), more preferably an exhaust gas turbocharger for a motor vehicle, which turbine geometry comprises guide blades (5) rotatably mounted in a blade bearing ring (4), wherein the blade bearing ring (4) with a side is directly exposed to a hot gas flow (12) while the side of the blade bearing ring (4) facing away from this is only indirectly exposed to the hot gas flow (12). It is substantial to the invention that the blade bearing ring (4) on its side directly exposed to the hot gas flow (12) is produced of a different material than on its side only indirectly exposed to the hot gas flow (12) wherein the two materials with regard to their heat expansion coefficients are selected in such a manner that the blade bearing ring (4) at preferentially all occurring operating temperatures expands evenly without warping. |
| US08641354B2 |
In-building storage apparatus and method of taking article out of the same
The in-building storage apparatus includes a guide rail mounted in a storage space in which articles are stored, and making slidal movement in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which main rails extend, a platform car including a travelling section for running on the guide rail, and a lifting/lowering section which lifts or lowers an article, suspenders each of which suspends an article at such a height that the platform car can pass therebelow, and a control unit having functions of causing the guide rail to make slidal movement, causing the platform car to move along the guide rail, causing the lifting/lowering section to lift or lower for taking a target article out of the suspenders, and causing a target article to be suspended by the suspenders. |
| US08641353B2 |
System for storing and retrieving shoes
The system for storing and retrieving shoes includes a cabinet defining a housing enclosing storage units. The housing defines a central shaft for raising and lowering shoe trays, and defines two columns of storage rack units for the shoe trays on opposite sides of the central shaft. A portal at the base of the central shaft provides access for placing shoes on a shoe tray and retrieving the shoes from the cabinet. A long support arm is movable horizontally to align a shoe tray in either the left or the right column of rack units. A short support arm is movable vertically on the long arm to align the shoe tray vertically, and has clips for grasping and releasing the shoe trays. An electronic control system controls movement of the two arms, and issues a card or claim check identifying the storage rack unit for later retrieval of the shoes. |
| US08641344B1 |
Panel fastener
A fastener has an integral retention mechanism, which is affixed to the fastener without the need for EDM slots along the length of the fastener. The integral retention mechanism reliably secures the fastener to a panel until it is desired to remove the fastener, in which case the fastener may be easily disengaged without any additional tools. The fastener has an axial aperture having an opening in the tip of the fastener, and axially aligned openings along opposing sides of the fastener which penetrate through to the axial aperture. A u-shaped spring mechanism is disposed within the axial aperture, with a portion of each leg outwardly extendable through the axially aligned openings to provide a retention mechanism. |
| US08641343B2 |
Threaded connector for pole, machinery and structural elements
Threaded connectors for securing a structure such as a post or pole to a support are disclosed. In one embodiment, an anchor has a passageway that is threaded for at least a portion of its length. An elongate connecting member has a relatively wide central section and threaded first and second sections extending from opposite sides of the central section. The first section is threadable into the passageway to secure the connecting member to the anchor. The connecting member is formed with a turning formation at its outer end so that it can be engaged with a turning tool in order to thread the connecting member into or out of the passageway. A nut is part of the connector and can be threaded onto the second section in order to secure the structure. Another version of the connector has a flanged nut having a flange spaced from the outer end of the nut, which is threadable onto a threaded connecting member. The nut is formed with a turning formation for engagement with a tool so that the nut can be turned to adjust the nut's position. |
| US08641341B2 |
Bolt retention apparatus and method
A unitized component assembly includes an component having an aperture, and a plurality of discrete projections extending into the aperture and spaced apart from one another about the perimeter of the aperture, and a fastener having a head and a shank extending from the head. The shank includes a necked portion and a threaded portion adjacent the necked portion. The shank is positioned in the aperture such that the necked portion is in facing relationship with the projections. The threaded portion is engageable with the projections to provide an axial stop for limiting movement of the fastener relative to the component. |
| US08641340B1 |
Cargo netting system
The present invention is a single piece cargo net having a semi-rigid center section for centering, and includes a pair of opposed short side sections having a plurality of spaced vertical straps extending from the center section. The invention further includes a pair of opposed long side sections having a plurality of spaced vertical straps extending from said center section. The invention further includes an integral storage bag that easily opens and separates for deploying the single piece net. |
| US08641337B2 |
Method of forming parts on a CNC machine
A method of forming a part from a workpiece mountable on a porous spoil-board on the worktable of a CNC machine having means for applying a negative pressure on the underside of the workpiece, providing a pressure differential across the mounted workpiece, and a cutting tool displaceable along x, y and z axes, including programming the controller of the machine to generate a cutting pattern, computing the area of the part, comparing the computed area value of the part with a predetermined area value and positioning the cutting tool along the Z-axis to provide less than a through cut of the workpiece where the computed area value is less than the predetermined area value and providing a through cut when a computed area value exceeds the predetermined area value, mounting the workpiece on the worktable, actuating the negative pressure applying means and operating the machine to execute such program. |
| US08641331B2 |
Milling cutting insert
The invention relates to a milling cutting insert having a square or triangular shaped cutting face delimited in the plan view by a peripheral cutting edge having linear cutting edges (10) and curved cutting corners (11). According to the invention, each of the cutting edges (10) comprises an inclined region (10a) sloping toward a cutting corner (11), extending beyond the tangential point (14) determined by the point at which the linear cutting edge (10) transitions into a curved cutting corner (11), wherein adjacent thereto the cutting edge (10b) rises prior to the point (24) determined by a cutting corner angle bisector (15), wherein said rising region (10b) extends to a cutting edge maximum (17) on the other side of the cutting corner (11) on the adjacent cutting edge (10), which is linear in plan view, from where the cutting edge (10) continues, again inclined and sloping downward, resulting in a rotationally symmetric form having identically shaped cutting edges. |
| US08641326B2 |
Method of replacing an underground pipe section
An improved method for replacing existing underground sewer pipe is accomplished without excavation, pipe bursting, or pipe reaming. First, vertical sight holes are drilled into the ground and through the existing pipe. Slurry material from the vertical hole drilling fills the old pipe. Then, a pilot hole is drilled in a first direction through the old pipe. Then, a reaming tool is pulled in the opposite direction so as to enlarge the pilot hole and grind out the old pipe, while simultaneously pulling the new pipe into position behind the reaming tool. The broken old pipe and slurry are vacuumed out of the vertical relief holes. |
| US08641321B2 |
Road finishing machine
A road finishing machine having an extendable screed and including an actuation instrument manually movable by the operator for adjusting the speed of a hydraulic movement actuator of the extendable screed. |
| US08641315B2 |
Furniture connecting piece
A kind of furniture connecting piece includes a base and a screw. The base has opposite upper surface and lower surface, opposite two side surfaces, and opposite front surface and back surface. The lower surface of the base is provided with a gapped groove extending to the upper surface of the base, and the gapped groove runs through the front surface and the back surface of the base. The upper surface of the base is provided with a screw hole communicating with the gapped groove. The screw passes through the screw hole and is partially contained within the gapped groove. The furniture connecting piece not only avoids suffering damage in the process of mounting the screw but also strengthens the installation intensity between the furniture connecting piece and the furniture component by setting the gapped groove in the screw hole. |
| US08641307B2 |
Printer having guided print zone
A printer is provided having a printhead assembly having a carrier frame, a pagewidth printhead with a corresponding pagewidth print zone defined by a plane adjacent the printhead assembly mounted at a base of the carrier frame, an approach guide mounted to the carrier frame on a first side of the printhead and an exit guide mounted to the carrier frame on a second side of the printhead, and a feed mechanism for continuously feeding a web of print media through the print zone. The web is unsupported in the print zone and is guided therethrough by the guides. The approach guide curves about the carrier frame base to terminate upstream with a leading angular edge abutting with the web such that the natural path of the web is deflected downwards and around the approach guide, and the exit guide curves about the carrier frame base to terminate downstream. |
| US08641299B2 |
Optical connector
An optical connector includes an optical element to be optically connected to an optical fiber; and an optical component. The optical component includes an element fixation part configured to fix the optical element to the optical component; a ferrule attachment part to which a ferrule having the optical fiber connected thereto is to be attached; and a lens to face the optical fiber when the ferrule is attached to the ferrule attachment part. The optical element is positioned relative to the optical fiber in response to attachment of the ferrule to the ferrule attachment part. |
| US08641294B2 |
Interface assembly, consolidation tooling and method of mounting an interface assembly to a substrate
An assembly, in particular for interfacing an embedded element, in particular a waveguide, at the surface of a substrate, such as a composite panel which forms part of a vehicle, typically an aircraft, to an external module, consolidation tooling for mounting an assembly to a substrate, and a method of mounting an assembly to a substrate. |
| US08641291B2 |
Comb-shaped resin retainer and roller bearing
A comb-shaped resin retainer includes an annular section and a plurality of pillar sections which protrude to one side in the axial direction from one side of the annular section. A gap between the pillar sections, adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction serves as a pocket for retaining a cylindrical roller. A side face of the pillar section which serves as the inner face of the pocket is formed in a recessed shape. Each pillar section is tilted so as to become closer to the retainer axial center as the pillar section extends toward the tip of the pillar section. A flat portion is provided on the side face of the pillar section which serves as the inner face of the pocket. The flat portion continues axially from the tip portion of the pillar section to the base end portion thereof. |
| US08641288B2 |
Rolling bearing, in particular radial needle bearing having a labyrinth seal
A radial needle rolling bearing, which has a thin-walled outer sleeve with radial rims that are axially inwardly directed on both sides, a plurality of needle bearings rolling on the inner lateral area of the sleeve and on the outer lateral area of the shaft to be supported, and a cage guiding the bearing needles in the circumferential direction in an evenly spaced manner. At least on one side, in addition to the needle cage, an additional stop disc is inserted into the needle sleeve. The disc is delimits axial movability of the needle cage together with a radial rim or a further stop disc inserted into the sleeve. Between the stop disc and the other radial rim, a sealing element is arranged, which seals the bearing. The sealing element is a labyrinth seal, which can be assembled from two individual mutually engaging sealing rings that have complimentary profile cross-sections. |
| US08641285B2 |
Sliding bearing, process for producing a sliding bearing and use of a sliding bearing
A sliding bearing (10) having a bearing body (11) which receives a shaft (1) in a guide bore (26) and is fabricated by a noncutting production process, wherein the bearing body (11) serves for at least indirect arrangement in a preferably fixedly arranged element (2), in particular a housing. According to the invention, it is provided that the bearing body (11) is provided on its outer circumference with a receptacle (14) for an elastic bearing element (12) for bearing against the fixed element (2). |
| US08641282B2 |
Seismic isolation bearing
A seismic isolation bearing has a lower plate and an upper plate separated by a slider. The lower plate has an upward facing concave surface. The upper plate has a downward facing concave surface. The slider includes a first member and a second member separated by a shock absorbing pad. The first member has an upper convex surface that slides along the concave surface of the upper plate. The second member has a lower convex surface that slides along the concave surface of the lower plate. In the event of an earthquake, the lower plate and the upper plate are intended to move relative to each other via the slider to dissipate the horizontal seismic energy. In addition, the shock absorbing pad can deform to absorb the vertical seismic energy. Thus, the seismic isolation bearing can increase its ability to isolate seismic energy. |
| US08641278B2 |
Automatic gripping device with extremely flexible hooks
An automatic gripping closure device comprising a first element with hooks comprising a first base band and at least two first hooks originating from the first band and placed in at least one row of first hooks (9), each first hook being delimited by two faces (11, 12) that are mutually opposed and transverse to the direction of the at least one row of first hooks and at least one coupling portion (13, 14) protruding laterally from the stem, preferably at the top of the latter, while extending in a direction transverse to the direction of the row, and a second element with hooks comprising a second base band and at least two second hooks originating from the second band and placed in at least one row. |
| US08641274B2 |
Polarization-maintaining fiber and optical fiber sensor using same
The polarization-maintaining fiber of the invention includes a core (1) made of germanium doped silica glass; a stress-applying part (3) made of boron doped silica glass; a cladding (2) made of pure silica glass; and a polyimide coating layer (4) with a thickness of 10 μm or less that surrounds the outer periphery of the cladding (2). |
| US08641270B2 |
Method for hydrocarbon dew point temperature measurement and device for carrying out said method
The invention relates to a field of measuring engineering.For increase in speed, sensitivity and accuracy of measurement of a hydrocarbon dew point, a method for hydrocarbon dew point temperature measurement is provided, comprising feeding gas to be studied onto a cooled element with a condensation surface onto which a light flux is directed at an angle providing its reflection in the observation aperture, a cooling of condensation surface of a cooled element and registering the value of the light flux reflected from the condensation surface, advent of the hydrocarbon dew point being determined on the basis of the registered value, and as a material for condensation surface of a cooled element use silicon.The device for hydrocarbon dew point temperature measurement contains a cooled element (4) with condensation surface contained in a housing (1), having openings (2) and (3) for an input and an exit of the gas to be studied, a cooler (5), the temperature sensor (6), the light source (7), located in such a manner that a light flux from it is directed after reflection from condensation surface of a cooled element (4) to the observation aperture (8) on the registrar (9) of the reflected beams, and the cooled element (4) with condensation surface is made from dielectric with refraction factor greater than refraction factor of liquid hydrocarbons. |
| US08641268B2 |
Platform escapement for a timepiece
Platform escapement assembly (1) comprising a balance (3) with a roller (4), a balance spring (5), and escape wheel (6) controlled by a pallet lever (7) cooperating with said roller (4).An escapement bridge (10) comprises, on both sides of a bottom surface (11), first (20) and second (21) spacers respectively comprising first (22) and second (23) bearing surfaces for receiving first (24) and second (25) complementary surfaces of a balance cock (30) on both sides of a top surface (11A), and said top surface (11A) is more flexible in bending than said bottom surface (11), so as to allow mobility, as a result of a perpendicular force applied to said top surface (11A), of said first complementary surface (24) relative to said first bearing surface (22) when said second complementary surface (25) is locked in position on said second bearing (23) surface. |
| US08641267B2 |
Fluidic conduit with repeated disturbance of laminar flow
A fluidic device, the fluidic device comprising a planar fluidic conduit for conducting a fluid, wherein the fluidic conduit has a plurality of fluidic disturbance features located along at least a section of the fluidic conduit for disturbing a laminar flow of the fluid along the section. |
| US08641265B2 |
Perfected cylindrical tank for the thermal treatment of a food mixture in general and machine for the production of food mixtures equipped with this cylindrical tank
The invention relates to a cylindrical tank for the thermal treatment of a food product, of the type including heating and/or cooling means of the food product, in addition to a mixer housed so as to be revolving in its interior. The tank has a cylindrical mantle, closed by a rear bottom and a front cover, there also being means (for feeding the product inside the tank. At least one temperature sensor of the food product is also situated in correspondence with this cover, with a sensitive part which, when the cover is closed, is in contact with the product contained in the tank. |
| US08641264B2 |
Paint producing method and paint producing system
The present invention provides a method for producing paint and a system for producing paint, which enable, in a paint-producing process, moderate stirring and dispersive mixing without causing entrainment of air bubbles, and are also economically advantageous and easier to clean. The system includes a tank 2 for receiving a paint material to be mixed and dispersed, a pump 3 for sucking part of the paint material in the tank 2 and discharging the sucked paint material into the remaining part of the paint material in the tank 2, and a flow path reduction area 5 disposed between the pump 3 and a paint material discharge outlet 4, the discharge outlet 4 being positioned so as to be submerged in the paint material in the tank. This achieves the stirring, mixing, and dispersion. |
| US08641250B2 |
Illuminated component for a vehicle
A user interface assembly (100, 104, 200) for operating a system within a vehicle (10) is disclosed that comprises a base (110, 210) and a user interface (100, 104, 200) supported at the base (110, 210) and configured to be selectively actuated for operating the system. The user interface includes a first portion and a second portion. The interface assembly also comprises a light source (140, 240) configured to provide light into the first portion of user interface (100, 104, 200). The user interface (100, 104, 200) is configured to function as a conduit for the light directed into the first portion so that the light can be emitted from the second portion of the user interface (100, 104, 200). |
| US08641243B1 |
LED retrofit luminaire
A retrofit light emitting diode (LED) lighting luminaire designed to have detachable and replaceable components for convenience and low cost in the luminaire maintenance including a heat dissipation member that includes detachable upper and lower sections with aligned radially extending fins, and a driver retained within the luminaire. The LED chip is retained against a surface of the lower heat dissipation member so that heat from the LED is transmitted to the radially extending fins to thereby effectively cool the LED lighting source and driver. |
| US08641241B2 |
Gimbaled LED array module
Gimbaled LED array module. In an aspect, In an LED mounting assembly is provided for directing light emitted from an LED array. The LED mounting assembly includes a gimbaled assembly configured to receive the LED array and to allow for positioning the LED array to direct the light emitted from the LED array. The LED mounting assembly also includes a body portion configured to receive the gimbaled assembly, and a connector coupled to the body portion, the connector configured to provide at least one of an electrical connection and a mechanical connection for the mounting assembly. |
| US08641237B2 |
LED light bulb providing high heat dissipation efficiency
An LED light bulb includes a lamp shell, a light emitting assembly and a power receiving base. The lamp shell includes a light transmissive portion and a holding portion. The light emitting assembly includes a light source baseboard located in the light transmissive portion and a circuit board connecting to the light source baseboard. The circuit board is surrounded by a heat sink. The heat sink includes a heat collecting section and a holding section extended from the heat collecting section into the power receiving base such that the power receiving base fully encases the heat sink without exposing. The inner surface of the power receiving base connects to the outer surface of the holding section so that heat generated by the light source baseboard is absorbed by the heat collecting section and transmitted via the holding section to the power receiving base for dissipating. |
| US08641235B2 |
Light, light fixture assembly, and patient module for use in a medical setting
A patient module for use in a medical setting is provided. The patient module includes a patient seating assembly and at least one of a medical instrument for use in providing treatment to a patient. At least one member having an articulated joint is provided. The member has a first end configured for engagement with a structure and a second end configured for engagement with a light for illuminating a treatment area of the patient. A display screen is carried by the light for displaying images for viewing by the patient. The display screen may be integrally formed with the light within a housing. |
| US08641229B2 |
Waterproof flexible and rigid LED lighting systems and devices
The present invention relates to lighting strips and more particularly to flexible lighting systems and devices, which are waterproof. The lighting strips are modular and are capable of being physically and electrically connected with one another to provide lighting systems that are waterproof and adaptable to many situations. Included in embodiments of the invention are modular lighting strips comprising: a non-conductive substrate strip comprising an electrical circuit; a plurality of high brightness LEDs operably connected to the electrical circuit; a colloid layer comprising polyurethane resin providing a waterproof coating over the substrate, the circuit, and the LEDs; and a plug at one end and a socket at an opposing end of the substrate which is integrally formed with the strip to provide for waterproof electrical interconnection of two or more circuits or to a power supply. The lighting strips of the invention can be used in particular for back lighting, accent lighting, aisle or path lighting, contour lighting, elegant interior decoration, holiday decorations, or landscape lighting. |
| US08641219B1 |
High efficiency rear lit waveguide
The present invention is directed to a display assembly. The display assembly includes a display panel and a backlight module. The backlight module may be operationally coupled to the display panel and may include a light source and light guide. The light guide may be operationally coupled to the light source. The light guide may include a top surface (oriented towards the display panel) and a bottom surface (oriented towards the light source). The light source may provide a plurality of light rays to the light guide via the bottom surface of the light guide, thereby providing a rear lit wave guide (ex.—a rear lit light guide). Further, the light guide may receive the plurality of light rays and direct them, via the top surface of the light guide, to the display panel for illuminating the display panel. |
| US08641212B2 |
Anti-reflection film and display device including the same, and manufacturing method of anti-reflection film and master film therefor
An anti-reflection film and a display device including the same, and a manufacturing method of an anti-reflection film and a master film therefor. The anti-reflection film includes an anti-glare and anti-reflection layer, a surface of the anti-glare and anti-reflection layer having an anti-glare pattern for scattering incident light and an anti-reflection pattern. |
| US08641208B2 |
Refractive optics and projection display apparatus
Disclosed are a projection display apparatus and a projection optics provided in the projection display apparatus. The projection optics has a refractive optics and a reflective optics. In the refractive optics, a lens (non-circular lens) provided on a reflective optics side has a non-circular shape forming part of an imaginary circular region whose center is an optical axis center of the refractive optics. In other words, the non-circular lens has a shape of a cut-out portion of an imaginary circular lens having an optical axis center coinciding with the optical axis center of the refractive optics. |
| US08641207B2 |
Projection-type image display device and projection-type image display system
A projection-type image display device includes an image light generator configured to generate image light, a projection optics configured to project the image light onto a screen. The projection optics includes a reflection mirror configured to reflect the image light toward the screen, the image light outputted from the image light generator. A projection-type image display device includes a protective cover provided on an optical path of the image light reflected by the reflection mirror. The protective cover has a transmissive region transmitting the image light reflected by the reflection mirror. |
| US08641206B2 |
Projector having a movable tilted aperture and cut filter
A projector includes a light source device which emits an illumination light; an aperture disposed with a tilt with respect to a plane perpendicular to a center axis of the illumination light, provided with an opening section which transmits a part of the illumination light, and block a rest of the illumination light; a pair of first and second lens arrays which divides the illumination light from the light source device into a plurality of partial light; and an overlapping lens which overlaps the illumination light transmitted through the first and second lens arrays, wherein the aperture is disposed on a light path between the light source device and the overlapping lens. |
| US08641205B2 |
Light source device having first light source, second light source, and control section to control drive timing of first light source and second light source such that drive pattern of second light source is inversion of drive pattern of first light source, and projection apparatus and projection method which utilize said light source device
A light source device includes a first light source configured to emit light within a first wavelength band, a second light source configured to emit light within a second wavelength band, and a light source control section configured to control drive timing of the first light source with a first drive pattern, and to control drive timing of the second light source with a second drive pattern which is an inverted pattern of the first drive pattern of the first light source, such that a light emission period for light-source light using light emitted by the second light source is positioned between light emission periods for the light-source light emitted by the first light source, and such that a frequency of the light-source light using light emitted by the second light source is higher than a frequency of light emitted by the first light source. |
| US08641204B2 |
Projector and method for registration adjustment
A projector including: a light source; a light modulation device modulating a light emitted from the light source in accordance with an image signal for each of colored lights for color display; a projection optical system projecting each of the colored lights modulated by the light modulation device; an operation accepting section; a registration adjustment section performing correction of the image signal corresponding to each of the colored lights based on an operation accepted by the operation accepting section so that a displacement occurring in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction in a projection screen between the colored lights is reduced, and supply the light modulation device with the image signal corrected if the displacement occurs; and a correction direction display control section displaying a correction direction, in which the correction of the image signal is performed, as an icon indicating a direction. |
| US08641199B2 |
Projector
A projector includes an outer housing having an exhaust port, a louver board configured to rotate to an open position in which the louver board opens the exhaust port or to a close position in which the louver board closes the exhaust port, and a drive mechanism configured to rotate the louver board and includes a moving member that rotates the louver board to the open position or the close position by moving rectilinearly. The louver board includes a projecting section configured to engage the moving member. The positions of the projecting section in the open position and in the close position are set so as to be located on opposite sides of a virtual plane which includes a rotation axis of the louver board and is perpendicular to a direction in which the moving member moves. |
| US08641198B2 |
3-D image night light gun
Herein featured is a Night Light which can be held by a user that displays three dimensional projected images. The Night Light also equipped with an additional 3-D lens attachment allows the user added viewing fun of the projected images. The all light calm mode feature allows the user to illuminate the Night Light in the event that a user needs illumination quickly or as a stand alone Night Light. |
| US08641194B2 |
System for in vivo analysis of tear film in the human eye via phase shifting interferometry
An in vivo method of characterizing dynamic tear films has been developed using a near infrared phase-shifting interferometer. This interferometer continuously measures light reflected from the tear film, allowing precision analysis of the dynamic surface topography. Movies showing the tear film behavior may be generated along with quantitative metrics describing the tear film surface as it changes in time. |
| US08641184B2 |
Conveying mechanism and recording apparatus including the same
Provided is a recording medium conveying mechanism including an endless center conveying belt and endless side conveying belts, the endless center conveying belt and the endless side conveying belts being looped over a driving roller to be driven by a motor, a driven roller and a tension roller. The center conveying belt is positioned in a center in a width direction of a recording medium to be conveyed, and the side conveying belts are positioned on opposite sides in a width direction of the center conveying belt, respectively. The center conveying belt includes a material with a high elastic modulus while the side conveying belts include a material with a low elastic modulus, and a biasing member for providing a tension to the center conveying belt and the side conveying belts is provided on a shaft of the tension roller. |
| US08641181B2 |
Image forming method
Provided is an image forming method including applying an ink that forms an image by inkjetting an ink composition containing coloring particles, a water-soluble polymerizable compound, a polymerization initiator and water onto a recording medium in which a base paper, a first layer containing a binder, and a second layer containing a white pigment are layered in this order, and a Cobb water absorption degree on a surface of the first layer placed on the base paper is 5.0 g/m2 or less as measured by a water absorption degree test according to JIS P8140 with a contact time of 15 seconds, and a water absorption amount on a surface of the second layer is 2 mL/m2 to 8 mL/m2 as measured by a Bristow method with a contact time of 0.5 seconds. |
| US08641179B2 |
Ink jet recording apparatus
According to one embodiment, an ink jet recording apparatus includes an ink jet head, a first tank arranged above the ink jet head and configured to store ink to be supplied to the ink jet head, a first tank valve that opens and closes in order to switch the inside of the first tank to be opened to or shut off from the atmosphere, a second tank arranged below the ink jet head and configured to store the ink collected from the ink jet head, a second tank valve that opens and closes in order to switch the inside of the second tank to be opened to or shut off from the atmosphere, a pipe configured to connect the ink jet head, the first tank, and the second tank and form a part of a circulation shape, a pump provided in the pipe between the first tank and the second tank, a passive pressure adjusting device connected to the second tank, arranged below the first tank, and configured to generate negative pressure using the gravity, and a third tank valve provided between the second tank and the passive pressure adjusting device. |
| US08641178B1 |
Ink receptacle for collecting and controllably releasing purged ink
An ink recirculation system has been developed to enable controlled release of ink collected in an ink receptacle into a printhead. The ink receptacle includes an indentation in a substantially planar surface and is configured to receive ink in the indentation from a printhead. The indentation has a shape that enables the ink receptacle to release ink at varying rates as a pivot angle of the ink receptacle is varied by a positioning system. The shape of the indentation enables the receptacle to dose ink into an ink reservoir in the printhead at known rates to control the amount of ink recycled to the printhead. |
| US08641177B2 |
Diaphragm valve for printhead
A diaphragm valve for distributing ink from an ink source to a media width inkjet printhead, the valve having a body, a plurality of ports on the body for connection to the ink source and printhead, a chamber within the body via which the ports are able to be interconnected, a diaphragm pad having seals for sealing respective ones of the ports and a selection device for manipulating the diaphragm pad to selectively seal and un-seal the ports to establish interconnection between the ports thereby allowing ink flow therebetween. |
| US08641172B2 |
Liquid discharge head
A liquid discharge head includes first and second element substrates including: a discharge port array; energy generating elements; and electric contacts electrically connected to the energy generating elements and including first and second electric contacts disposed linearly along one end and the other end. The first and second element substrates are configured such that a distance between the gravity center of the first electric contact and that of a discharge port provided at an end of the discharge port array on the first electric contacts side is different from a distance between the gravity center of the second electric contact and that of a discharge port provided at an end of the discharge port array on the second electric contacts side. The first electric contacts of the first element substrate and the second electric contacts of the second element substrates are disposed linearly, and vice versa. |
| US08641171B2 |
Forming nozzles
Fluid ejection nozzles having a tapered section leading to a straight walled bore are described. Both the tapered section of the nozzle and the straight walled bore are formed from a single side of semiconductor layer so that the tapered section and the bore are aligned with one another, even when an array of nozzles are formed across a die and multiple dies are formed on a semiconductor substrate. |
| US08641170B2 |
Liquid ejection device and liquid ejection method
A liquid ejection device includes a head and a liquid-receiving section. The head has a plurality of nozzles configured and arranged to eject a liquid. The liquid-receiving section has a sloped face for receiving a liquid ejected from the nozzles when flushing is carried out by the head. The sloped face is formed on an elongated member and is configured and arranged to receive the liquid ejected downward from the nozzles. The nozzles forming at least one nozzle row extending in a direction along a longitudinal direction of the elongated member. The head being configured and arranged to carry out the flushing while travelling above the sloped face. |
| US08641167B2 |
Maintenance apparatus having rotatable wiper for printhead
A maintenance apparatus for a printhead, the apparatus having a rotatable shaft; a porous material about the shaft; and a mechanism for rotating the shaft so that the porous material rotates against the printhead, the porous material being configured to absorb fluid from the printhead during the rotation. |
| US08641165B2 |
Inkjet image recorder and method for correction of belt conveyance
Provided are an ink-jet image recorder for recording an image precisely and a method for correction of belt conveyance mechanisms by controlling the roller drive on the basis of fluctuation of the conveyance rate caused by a particular failure in the endless belt. In the belt conveyor mechanism of the ink-jet image recorder, the method for correction of the belt conveyance comprises a position detection step (Step S1) for detecting a specified position on the endless belt; a measurement step for measuring the rotation rate of the roller; a position calculation step (Step S4) for specifying a position on the endless belt; a calculation step (Step S5) for calculating the corrected conveyance rate; in the error-causing region where a conveyance error is caused by the endless belt during movement of the endless belt, by addition to the position of the endless belt, of the amount of correction of the conveyance rate of the endless belt calculated from the conveyance error corresponding to the error-causing region; and a driving rate calculation step (Step S6) for adjusting the motor driving rate in accordance with the corrected conveyance rate. |
| US08641164B2 |
Corrected value calculation method and printing device
A density correction value calculation method for a printing device comprising: (A) determining the density of each pixel column composed of pixels aligned in the intersecting direction in a duty determination pattern, and also determining the density of each pixel column in the duty determination pattern; (B) specifying the total duty for which the lowest density of the pixel column densities of the overlapping regions is equal to or greater than the lowest density in the pixel columns of the non-overlapping regions; and (C) calculating a density correction value of the pixel columns using a density correction pattern formed with the specified total duty, and also calculating a density correction value so that the lowest density of the pixel column densities of the density correction pattern is a reference. |
| US08641159B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
Provided is a liquid ejecting apparatus including: a first nozzle array in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting a liquid is lined up in a predetermined direction; a second nozzle array in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting a liquid is lined up in the predetermined direction; and a controller which determines whether or not correction is performed based on a ruled-line direction and the number of dots in a ruled-line width direction, when a ruled line is printed by forming dots by the first nozzle array and then forming dots by the second nozzle array. |
| US08641155B2 |
Modular furniture system
A modular furniture system is provided. The system includes surface members, junctions, and connectors. Each connector has two engagement portions. The surface members and junctions each include one or more channels for receiving a connector, the channels are shaped to slidingly attach with an engagement portion of a connector. The channels are positioned so that the connectors being used to interconnect a surface member to a junction or a surface member to another surface member to assemble the modular furniture system. |
| US08641152B2 |
Method and system for brake control
Methods and systems are provided to reduce a hard brake pedal feel. A brake control variable is adjusted in anticipation of a hard pedal condition to increase hydraulic brake line pressure and maintain a normal pedal feel. A pedal force is inferred from brake line pressure relative to brake booster vacuum. |
| US08641150B2 |
In situ co-development of oil shale with mineral recovery
A method of producing hydrocarbon fluids from a subsurface organic-rich rock formation, for example an oil shale formation, in which the oil shale formation contains water-soluble minerals, for example nahcolite, is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of heating the organic-rich rock formation in situ. Optionally, this heating step may be performed prior to any substantial removal of water-soluble minerals from the organic-rich rock formation. In accordance with the method, the heating of the organic-rich rock formation both pyrolyzes at least a portion of the formation hydrocarbons, for example kerogen, to create hydrocarbon fluids, and converts at least a portion of the water-soluble minerals, for example, converts nahcolite to soda ash. Thereafter, the hydrocarbon fluids are produced from the formation. |
| US08641149B2 |
Ratcheting vehicle head restraint assembly
A ratcheting pivot mechanism for coupling a head rest portion of a vehicle head restraint assembly to a post portion of a vehicle head restraint assembly includes a first pivot arm, a second pivot arm pivotably connected to the first pivot arm, a movable ratchet member pivotably connected to the second pivot arm, and a spring disposed between the second pivot arm and the movable ratchet member. The first pivot arm has a fixed ratchet member, which the movable ratchet member is configured to selectively engage. The spring is configured to apply an engaging force to the movable ratchet member when the movable ratchet member is in a first position, and configured to apply a disengaging force to the movable ratchet member when the movable ratchet member is in a second position. |
| US08641147B2 |
Procedure chair with interchangeable headrests
A patient procedures chair is provided with a system that permits ready interchangeability of patient headrests with ease of positioning and locking in position while at the same time guarding against inadvertent axial removal. |
| US08641146B2 |
Vehicle seat reclining apparatus
A vehicle seat reclining apparatus comprises a base member to be connected to one of a seat cushion and a seat back, a rotation member which is to be connected to the other of the seat cushion and seat back, which is arranged to rotate relative to the base member and which includes an internal gear, a regulating member to regulate axial movement of the rotation member relative to the base member, and a locking setup which includes an external gear and which is arranged to move between a lock position to engage the external gear with the internal gear and an unlock position for disengagement. The base member includes an outer circumferential portion defining a circular recess, the rotation member includes an outer circumferential portion including a cylindrical portion fit rotatably in the outer circumferential portion of the base member. The outer circumferential portion of the rotation member further includes a flange portion which projects radially outwards from the cylindrical portion, which is placed axially between the regulating member and the outer circumferential portion of the base member and which includes a side surface facing away from the base member and servings as a sliding regulation surface set in sliding contact with the regulating member. |
| US08641140B2 |
Vehicle safety seat
A vehicle safety seat (104, 202, 302, 502, 802) includes a seat bottom (120, 210, 310, 504, 810) that is movable substantially instantly from a substantially horizontal normal orientation for normal traveling to a deployed angled orientation contemporaneously with a vehicle crash. The deployed safety seat shifts a seat occupant (102) into a protective posture to reduce accelerations, loads and moments of force on various parts of the occupant's body. In preferred embodiments, the seat bottom is deployed into its angled orientation by lowering the rear (124, 312, 507, 812) of the seat bottom, causing the seat bottom to pivot about a front pivot (174, 220, 320, 518, 820) at the front of the seat bottom. Typically, a vehicle safety seat includes a backrest (130, 240, 360, 550, 840). In some embodiments, a backrest (130, 240, 360, 550) is movable downwards and/or rearwards simultaneously with movement of the seat bottom. |
| US08641135B2 |
Sill panel
A sill panel made of plastic extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and is connected to the vehicle body. The sill panel is of an arched configuration and has an upper, upright fastening flange, which is connected to the vehicle body by fastening devices. Vertically oriented, upwardly open slots are provided in the fastening flange, between the fastening devices. |
| US08641133B1 |
High strength lightweight vehicle and an improved method for producing same
A high-strength-per-unit-weight spaceframe-like vehicle has a front subassembly, a core frame and a rear subassembly configured to be bolted together, forming a spaceframe core platform. A roof structure assembly of formed, extruded or stamped components is bolted to the spaceframe core platform in a common plane and height. Closure panels common to a vehicle family style are provided, and non-load bearing colored panels defines the vehicle body color. A vehicle assembly method includes bolting together a plurality of subassemblies, bolting a roof structure assembly to the core platform, installing at a plant closure panels common to a vehicle family style, and thereafter installing a series of non-structural colored panels defining the vehicle body color and having only aesthetic and aerodynamic functionalities as the last assembly step in the plant or optionally at the point of sale or the other location outside the plant. |
| US08641131B2 |
Frame structure for vehicle
In a frame structure for a vehicle having a reinforcement body provided inside a frame body, the frame body comprises a first face portion and a second face portion extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to a rotational-axis direction of a bending moment occurring when a torsional load acts on a vehicle body, and third face portions positioned between the first and second face portions, and the reinforcement body comprises third-face connection portions connected to the third face portions, a first-face connection portion connected to the first face portion at a corner portion, a first-face non-contact portion provided away from the first face portion, a second-face connection portion connected to the second face portion at a corner portion, and a second-face non-contact portion provided away from the second face portion. |
| US08641130B2 |
Vehicle cowl cover
A vehicle cowl cover includes a main body and a first yielding portion. The main body includes a first lateral end portion defining a first end edge and a second lateral end portion defining a second end edge. The first yielding portion is attached along a majority of the first end edge such that the first yielding portion at least partially forms a first end surface of the first lateral end portion. The first yielding portion has a first elasticity greater than a second elasticity of the main body. |
| US08641125B2 |
Sensor installations for motorized vehicle doors
An obstruction detection system using a safety switch with a plurality of sensors is provided. The sensors include a sensing element molded in a casing and separated from an adjacent sensor by one of a plurality of connectors. A clip has a strip portion and a first attachment arm extending at an angle from the strip portion. A second attachment arm extends from the strip portion. A barb leg is disposed at an angle relative to the strip portion. The barb leg has a first leg end and a second leg end opposite the first leg end with the barb leg connected at the first leg end to the second attachment arm and the second leg end is disposed toward and spaced apart from the strip portion. |
| US08641123B1 |
System for covering a vehicle platform
A system for covering a vehicle platform defining opposed ends. End elements are mountable to the vehicle platform adjacent its ends and a tarpaulin attachment element extends therebetween. A tarpaulin defines a tarpaulin movable end and a tarpaulin fixed portion extending in a parallel and spaced apart relationship relative to each other, the tarpaulin fixed portion being secured to the tarpaulin attachment element. An end rod is mounted to the tarpaulin adjacent the tarpaulin movable end and a support member is mounted to the tarpaulin a location intermediate the tarpaulin fixed portion and movable end. An actuator moves the tarpaulin between tarpaulin retracted and extended configurations. In the tarpaulin retracted configuration, at least part of the tarpaulin is wound around the end rod. In the tarpaulin extended configuration, the tarpaulin is unwound from the end rod and extends along the end elements, the support member abutting against the end elements. |
| US08641121B2 |
Mounting device for use with portable electronic instruments
An improved mounting mechanism for mounting and holding electronic and other devices in vehicles which increases safety in a vehicular and improves the ability of an operator to incorporate the captured device in their instrument scan. In one embodiment, the improved mounting mechanism captures a device and holds it in a housing using mounting holes located or attached to a panel while allowing for easy removal of the portable device, efficient cable capture, and proper viewing angles. Another embodiment provides an alternate mounting scheme for attaching to an instrument panel. |
| US08641118B2 |
Vehicle body structure
A vehicle body structure includes a roof ditch and an elongated molding member that convers the roof ditch. Each of a plurality of fastening members extends upward from a recessed support surface of the roof ditch to a level that is below upper edges of first and second wall surfaces of the roof ditch. The molding member includes a main section and a plurality of attachment structures. The main section and the attachment structures are formed unitarily as a single monolithic element. The main section is located between upper edges of the first and second wall surfaces and laterally conceals the roof ditch. The attachment structures extending from the main section into the roof ditch and including a bottom wall defining an opening fixedly receiving a corresponding one of the fastening members. |
| US08641115B2 |
Under-actuated robotic finger with joint locking mechanism
The present invention relates to an under-actuated robotic finger with joint locking mechanisms, including: a base body; a first finger part coupled rotatably to the base body; a second finger part coupled rotatably to the first finger part; a first hinge part adapted to rotatably connect the base body and the first finger part; a second hinge part adapted to rotatably connect the first finger part and the second finger part; a first locking mechanism adapted to restrict the rotation of the first finger part; and a second locking mechanism adapted to restrict the rotation of the second finger part. |
| US08641114B2 |
Robot hand
A robot hand which can be formed in the shape of a human hand and improves maintenance performance, and generates fingertip force is provided. A robot hand (1) of the present invention is provided with a hand section (3) and an arm section (5). The hand section (3) corresponds to the portion of a human hand which is forward from the wrist thereof. The arm section (5) is provided with a drive device (d5) including a plurality of motors and generates driving torque for driving each movable section of the hand section (3). The hand section (3) and the arm section (5) are configured in such a manner that a group (g36) of wrist-mounted pulleys which are first driving torque transmitting members coaxially arranged and a group (r5) of arm pulleys which are second driving torque transmitting members coaxially arranged transmit driving torque generated by the drive device (d5) to each movable section of the hand section (3) via gears meshing with each other. |
| US08641113B1 |
Gripping device for tubular objects
A selectably operable passive gripping device for gripping tubular materials has an elastomeric element which is provided with integrally bonded segmented end rings to prevent the extrusion of the elastomer when it is subjected to high compressive loads. The elastomeric element is molded so that its as-molded gripping surface interferes with the surface of tubular objects to be gripped. The elastomeric gripping element is mounted and supported by a structural element or housing and allows axial flow communication through the gripped tubular objects. The gripping device is used to lift tubular objects such as a tubular string used in oil field applications. |
| US08641109B2 |
Pet shovel
A pet shovel has an elongated handle, a shovel head and a bag mounting frame disposed between the shovel head and a distal end of the elongated handle. The frame forms an opening between the shovel head and the distal end of the elongated handle. The bag mounting frame is adapted to retain a mouth of a bag open disposed between the shovel head and the distal end of the elongated handle in the opening between the shovel head and the distal end of the elongated handle. A bag body support extends from a bottom of the elongated handle to receive a body of the bag mounted on the bag mounting frame to form a sump in an end of the bag, distal from the shovel head and the mouth of the bag. |
| US08641105B2 |
Securing mechanisms for partitions, partition systems including same, and related methods
Partition systems comprise a first post member attached to a foldable partition, a securing mechanism attached to the first post member and comprising at least one permanent magnet switch configured to selectively apply a significant attractive magnetic force, and at least another post member comprising a material responsive to the applied significant attractive magnetic force of the at least one permanent magnet switch. Methods of securing a partition system comprise bringing a first post member of a foldable partition proximate at least another post member; and manipulating the at least one permanent magnet switch attached to the first post member to selectively apply a significant attractive magnetic force to the at least another post member. |
| US08641100B2 |
Threaded tubular connection which is leak-proof under internal and external successive pressure loads
A threaded tubular connection that is leak-proof for internal and external successive pressure loads including a male element and a female element. At least one of the male or female elements includes a lip between the threading and the free end of the element. The lip includes a first zone with a peripheral surface turned towards the other element on which a first metallic sealing surface is disposed that can be radially interference fitted against a corresponding second metallic sealing surface disposed on the other element. The lip includes a second zone located axially between the first zone and the corresponding threading. The radial stiffness of the second zone is less than that of the first zone and that of a third zone adjacent to the second zone in the direction of the threading, and the second zone can be radially deformed by a pressure exerted thereon. |
| US08641095B2 |
Steering column device
A steering column device includes a fixed member and a movable member disposed between a jacket and a mount bracket. The fixed member is located on a mount bracket side, and the movable member is located on a jacket side. The fixed member and the movable member include a lock member and a lock tooth disposed to face each other. The lock member includes an elastic claw having elasticity to achieve engagement with and disengagement from the lock tooth. |
| US08641092B2 |
Valve device and airbag comprising such a valve device, and method for operating such a valve device
A valve mechanism for a gaseous medium of an airbag is provided. The valve mechanism includes a first and second layer, which respectively include a passage opening that is substantially closed in a closed position of the valve mechanism by a corresponding cover region of the other respective layer. An adjusting element in the form of a tube with an adjustable volume provides a temporary passage position of the valve mechanism by lifting one of the cover regions of the corresponding layer from the corresponding passage opening. |
| US08641086B2 |
Seat cushion airbag device
A seat cushion airbag device mountable to a vehicle seat that includes: a seat section including a seat cushion supported by a support section; and a blower duct having an outlet provided below the seat cushion so as to allow air-conditioning air to be ejected upward. The cushion airbag device includes an airbag, at least a part of which is inflated with an inflating fluid such that a seat surface of the seat section is bulged out. The airbag includes a folded portion. Before the airbag is inflated with the inflating fluid, the airbag is disposed at a position on a front side of the outlet while the folded portion is folded such that the outlet is exposed from the airbag. When the airbag is inflated, the folded portion is deployed so as to extend to a position on a rear side of the outlet. |
| US08641079B2 |
Multi-axle vehicle suspension system
A multi-axle vehicle suspension system comprising a first torsion axle mounted to a first suspension pivot member, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to a vehicle frame, a second torsion axle mounted to a second suspension pivot member, the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, a pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member, and the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member. |
| US08641075B1 |
Anti-sway trailer hitch and method
An anti-sway hitch having a ball mount housing which defines a channel and a trunnion pivotally positioned within the channel. The hitch also has a spring, a first engagement member, and a second engagement member with the spring mounted on the first member within the ball mount housing and the first member engaging the second member. The hitch further includes a post positioned within the ball mount housing and the engagement members positioned on the post wherein rotation of the trunnion causes corresponding rotation of the post and the first member. A method of towing a trailer with an anti-sway hitch is also provided. |
| US08641074B2 |
Oscillating kingpin structure for grain trailer
A rocking trailer kingpin assembly for a grain trailer constructed of aluminum or light weight steel includes an upper subframe mounted to the trailer body with a pivotable lower subframe hinged to the upper subframe. The lower subframe includes a skid plate from which a kingpin extends such that the kingpin can be received in the fifth wheel coupling of a truck tractor. |
| US08641068B1 |
Decorative side bar for a motor vehicle
A side bar made according to this invention includes a rail that forms a channel which receives a clip. The clip is moveable along the channel to any vehicle or step mounting point desired. Once in its desired location, the clip helps to secure the rail to the bracket. When the rail is secured to a vehicle frame, the rail hides the vehicle mounting brackets from view and, when fully assembled with a step, hides the step mounting bracket from view. Because the mounting brackets are not visible, and because the step is complementary in shape to the rail, the rail gives the appearance of supporting the step. |
| US08641065B2 |
Battery-powered towing tractor
The battery-powered towing tractor includes a front wheel, a rear wheel, a body, a battery, a member plate, a front reinforcing plate and a rear reinforcing plate. The body has a floor formed between the front wheel and the rear wheel. The battery is disposed in the body at a position between the front wheel and the floor. The member plate extends in width direction of the body for compartmenting a rear end of the floor in the body. The front reinforcing plate is joined to a front surface of the member plate. The rear reinforcing plate is joined to a rear surface of the member plate. The front reinforcing plate and the rear reinforcing plate are opposed across the member plate. |
| US08641062B2 |
Lift axle suspension systems incorporating compression coil springs
A lift axle suspension system is provided with a frame bracket member connectable to a vehicle frame, an upper control arm, and a lower control arm. Each control arm has a first end and a second end, with the first end of each control arm being pivotally connected to the frame bracket member. The suspension system also includes an axle connecting member connectable to an axle, with the second end of each control arm being pivotally connected to the axle connecting member. A compression coil spring having a first end connected to the lower control arm and a second end connected to the upper control arm serves as a lift mechanism for lifting and lowering the axle connected to the axle connecting member. The compression coil spring may encircle at least a portion of and be substantially coaxial with the lower control arm. |
| US08641060B2 |
Coffee caddy
A support device for moving an item on a surface. A main body includes a panel and a sidewall. A handle assembly engages the main body and includes a first transportation mechanism. The support device includes a resistance portion on the main body for engaging a surface and resisting movement of the support device when in a resistive mode. The handle mechanism lowers the first transportation mechanism to engage the surface and disengage the resistance portion from the surface in a transportive mode to encourage movement of the support device and the item supported thereon. |
| US08641058B2 |
Hand truck brake
The hand truck brake provides automatic braking for a hand truck as it negotiates a stairway or other uneven surface. The brake is adaptable to various types of hand trucks, including powered stair-climbing trucks. The brake includes two major assemblies. The first is a reciprocating plunger having a distal roller that travels along the surface. When the roller travels over the nose of a stairway tread, the plunger extends to actuate the brake. The second major assembly is a rotary cam rotated by the plunger as it extends. The cam has an extension and a brake shoe, the brake shoe engaging the underlying surface to stop the hand truck when the cam is rotated to its brake-engaging position. The assembly automatically retracts when the hand truck is oriented vertically. Additional controls are provided for the operator to extend or retract the brake mechanism. |
| US08641057B2 |
Wagon
A wagon includes a wagon pan including a wagon pan sidewall and a footwell including a footwell sidewall and a bottom. The wagon pan and footwell are adapted to be shipped in a nesting configuration and fastened together with the wagon pan on top of the footwell to form a body of the wagon. A handle and a number of are wheels adapted to be connected to the body of the wagon. The handle and wheels may also be shipped in a nested configuration with respect to the footwell. |
| US08641053B2 |
Actuator assembly
An actuator assembly for use in an active suspension includes a drive assembly having a first portion and a second portion configured to translate relative to each other. The first portion is coupled to a sprung mass and the second portion is coupled to an unsprung mass. The actuator assembly includes an air spring assembly disposed about the drive assembly having a first portion disposed in proximity to the sprung mass and a second portion disposed in proximity to the unsprung mass, the air spring assembly defining an air volume pressurized at an air pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. The actuator assembly includes a cooling assembly having a set of drive assembly channels disposed within the air volume and in thermal communication with the drive assembly and a pump disposed in fluid communication with the set of drive assembly channels. |
| US08641052B2 |
Suspension device
A suspension device (S) as a solution for the problem of the present invention includes: an active suspension unit (U) equipped with a linear actuator (A) and a first fluid pressure damper (D1) connected to the actuator (A) to extend and retract in the same direction; and a second fluid pressure damper (D2) arranged in parallel with the active suspension unit (U). |
| US08641051B2 |
Vehicle suspension system and a method of control
A vehicle suspension system and a method of control. The system may include an air cylinder, an air spring piston, and an air spring. The air spring piston may be positioned with respect to the air spring with the air cylinder. |
| US08641050B2 |
Apparatus for moving a non-ambulatory individual up and down steps
An apparatus for transporting a non-ambulatory individual up and down steps includes a seat for the non-ambulatory individual, two front wheels and two larger back wheels positioned under the seat. The apparatus can be used to move up steps through an operator by tilting the apparatus back and moving the apparatus such that the large rear wheels roll towards the steps. When descending steps, the seated occupant can be lowered through successive steps to a lower floor or incorporated landing by tilting the apparatus and moving the rear wheels down the steps. The apparatus includes extension rods which may be extended to stabilize the apparatus while moving up or down steps. |
| US08641049B2 |
Tool-less blade clamping apparatus for a reciprocating tool
Several preferred embodiments are disclosed for a tool-less blade clamping apparatus for a reciprocating tool of the type which has a reciprocating plunger which has a tool attachment receiving slot for receiving a tool attachment of the type that has a shank portion. The clamping apparatus has an unclamped position and a clamped position. In the unclamped position, a tool attachment can be easily inserted and when it is in its clamped position, the tool attachment is securely retained. The preferred embodiments have at least one spring biasing the apparatus toward the clamped position, a releasable retaining mechanism for holding the apparatus in its unclamped position after being placed in that position. When the blade shank portion is inserted into the slot a predetermined distance, the shoulders of the shank portion release the retaining mechanism to move it to its clamped position. When a blade is to be removed, the clamping apparatus needs only to be moved to its unclamped position by manually rotating the outer sleeve or collar, and the blade is normally ejected from the mechanism by contact with the blade shoulders as it reaches its unclamped position. |
| US08641041B2 |
Printing medium supplying apparatus and image forming apparatus having the same
A printing medium supplying apparatus for an image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body, and a printing medium aligning unit which is disposed on the apparatus main body to move between an aligning position at which the printing medium aligning unit aligns a printing medium and a distanced position at which the printing medium aligning unit is distanced from the aligning position. |
| US08641040B2 |
Kiosk-installable printer with duplex path utilized to deliver printed media sheets to lower front exterior of printer
An image forming device includes an image formation path extending from an entrance end adjacent to a source of supply of media sheets, past an image forming station, to an exit end adjacent to a top collection site adapted to receive media sheets, a duplex path extending from an inlet end adjacent the top collection site to an outlet end adjacent a lower front opening in the device, a media sheet directing mechanism disposed between the exit end of the image formation path, top collection site and inlet end of the duplex path and selectively operable to deliver printed media sheets to the top collection site or the inlet end of the duplex path, and a deflector mechanism between the lower front opening and the outlet end of the duplex path and operable to divert printed media sheets from the duplex path through the lower front opening to exterior of the device. |
| US08641039B2 |
Document handling
Apparatus for handling documents comprises an inlet 30 for receiving documents, a transfer means for transferring documents from the inlet to a secure or securable location and deposit means, wherein the transfer means is operable, in use, to transfer documents between the inlet and a deposit position adjacent the securable location, said deposit means comprises a plunger 50 and movable members 523b, 523c wherein the movable members 523b, 523c are arranged to move along the plunger 50 as the plunger 50 urges documents into the securable location. |
| US08641036B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet accommodating unit which is detachably attached to an apparatus main body and configured to accommodate sheets, a sheet stacking unit which is provided in the sheet accommodating unit and can move while supporting the sheet, a sheet feeding unit configured to feed the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit, and a lift unit configured to move the sheet stacking unit toward the sheet feeding unit, wherein, before feeding of the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit by the sheet feeding unit, the lift unit increases and then reduces press contact force between the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit and the sheet feeding unit. |
| US08641032B2 |
Recording device
A sheet cassette includes a lower stage side tray that accommodates a sheet, an upper stage side tray that is slidable with respect to the lower stage side tray on an upper portion of the lower stage side tray and accommodates the sheet, and a discharged sheet tray that is slidable with respect to the upper stage side tray, is displaceable to a position to receive the sheet discharged after being recorded on, and covers an upper portion of the upper stage side tray. The upper stage side tray and the discharged sheet tray are configured to be driven by a driving unit, and the discharged sheet tray is displaced by the driving unit to a position to receive the sheet. |
| US08641030B2 |
Control apparatus for controlling stapling and image forming apparatus for controlling stapling
A control apparatus that controls a stapling unit configured to staple sheets includes a control unit configured to determine a turning-over direction of sheets to be stapled by the stapling unit and to determine a maximum number of staplable sheets according to the determined turning-over direction. |
| US08641026B2 |
Fuel nozzle servicing tool
A tool for servicing a fuel dispensing nozzle, said tool comprising a substantially semicircular base plate with two uprights protruding from the top to receive a fuel pump nozzle therein; said base plate being formed to fit on the mouth of a bucket and substantially cover the mouth of said bucket, while leaving open a portion of the bucket; said base plate having on its bottom surface protruding guides to ensure a snug fit on the mouth of said bucket; so that a fuel dispensing nozzle may be easily secured for separation from a hose and residual fuel may be easily drained from said nozzle and said hose. |
| US08641024B1 |
Methods and apparatus for clamping tools
The present invention is directed generally to tools that are high quality, strong, and lightweight. For example, various tools such as clamps may be made using parts containing a compound or alloy including magnesium. Magnesium may be for cast or extruded parts. In one embodiment, an “F” style clamp may be made with one or both of the two cooperating jaw members or sections being cast from a magnesium compound or alloy. In one variation, the “F” style clamp may include a shaft made from extruded magnesium. In another embodiment, a “C” style clamp may be made with the “C” shaped frame being cast from a magnesium compound or alloy. In a further embodiment, a bar clamp having trigger indexing may be made with one or both of two jaw members or sections being cast from a magnesium compound or alloy. In a variation, the bar may be an extruded magnesium. |
| US08641022B2 |
Front fork
In a front fork, a throttle flow path is provided between a hole which is provided in an inner tube and is communicated with an annular gap chamber, and a lower oil chamber in an outer periphery of a hollow pipe. |
| US08641019B2 |
Mixing device for mixing water and water vapor in a diversion station
A diversion station is provided. The diversion station makes it possible to particularly effectively cool diverted water vapor by mixing it with water. The diversion station includes a mixing device, which comprises a so-called static mixer that is substantially made of a wire mesh. The wire mesh is produced by at least one wire that is substantially interlaced into loops. In the intended installation situation, the mixer is installed upstream of a water injection with regard to a flow direction specified by the water vapor such that the mixture of water and water vapor flows through the loops. |
| US08641017B2 |
Device for absorption of gas or vapour in a liquid and method for reintroducing vapour or gas in the liquid from which the gas or vapour orginates
Device for absorption of at least one component chosen among gas and vapor in a liquid based on an ejector principle, comprising a mixing zone in the form of a substantially straight tube (5) immediately downstream of the ejector (1). The device comprises an ejector (1) with central liquid passage (2) and a substantially annular, sectioned aperture (4) for gas/vapor. The gas aperture (4) generally surrounds the central liquid passage (2) and the annular, sectioned aperture (4) for gas/vapor is designed in a manner to cause the gas/vapor to enter the mixing zone with a velocity component that is inclined to the periphery surface of the tube to thereby provide a helical flow (6) downstream of the ejector (1). |
| US08641014B2 |
Gate valve
In one embodiment, a gate valve is provided that includes a seal plate disposed in a housing. An inflatable biasing member is retained on a first side of the seal plate and is positioned to surround a first opening formed through the housing. A ring seal is retained on a second side of the plate opposite the first side and is positioned to surround a second opening formed through the housing. At least one of the inflatable biasing member and the ring seal are adapted to create a vacuum seal around the first and second openings, respectively, when the inflatable biasing member is inflated. |
| US08641011B2 |
Solenoid with armature having frontal recess
A solenoid comprises at least one armature supported in an armature space. The armature space is encircled by a coil carrying a number of windings which can be loaded with current. The magnetic field generated by it moves the armature against the core. The armature acts on a pin. The armature has on its front seen in the direction of movement a recess in which a structural part is set. The pin is supported on the structural part. |
| US08641007B2 |
Exhibiting rack
An exhibiting rack for loading a billboard or bulletin board is disclosed. The rack includes a fixed frame and a movable frame. The movable frame is mounted by a board to be exhibited and linearly slidable against the fixed frame. The movable frame is disposed on the fixed frame and an extension stem is disposed therebetween. A fixed end and action end of the extension stem are connected to the fixed frame and movable frame, respectively. The extension stem exerts a force on the movable frame to support the movable frame with a board to a desired height. |
| US08641006B2 |
Hands-free capture hood support device and method
A hands-free support device and method for supporting an airflow hood relative to an airflow register is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a support device operably attached to the airflow hood and configured to support the airflow hood relative to a first surface proximate the register. The support device is configured to engage a second surface spaced away from the first surface. |
| US08641003B2 |
Shelving end brackets with interchangeable pieces for supporting hang rods of different sizes
According to various aspects of the present disclosure, exemplary embodiments are disclosed of systems and methods for supporting hang rods and shelves from support surfaces, such as the walls of a closet or cabinet. In an exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes a pair of end brackets and a plurality of different pairs of interchangeable pieces configured to be selectively coupled to the pair of end brackets. Each pair of interchangeable pieces when selectively coupled to the end brackets, respectively, is operable for supporting a different hang rod from the support surface when the end brackets are coupled to the support surface. |
| US08641001B2 |
Wall mounting system
A wall hanging system is provided for mounting of heavy, high cantilever load objects to an upright wall, such as a big game trophy comprising a backer board with a central opening. The system includes a bracket secured to the rear face of backer board and having a forwardly extending housing. The housing includes an arcuate, inclined, hanging wall section defining a mounting recess. The system also has a hanger including an inclined, arcuate, upper, support surface, which is received within the recess such that the hanging and support surfaces are disposed in mating engagement throughout a fore-and-aft depth of at least about one-quarter inch, and through an arc of at least about 120°. |
| US08640996B2 |
Multiple direction railroad gate release mechanism
An example includes an apparatus for releasing a railroad gate in at least two directions. The example includes a primary pivot member and a secondary pivot member pivotally connected to the primary pivot member, with one end of the railroad crossing connectable to the secondary pivot member. In the example the primary pivot member is rotable around a primary pivot of the apparatus, the primary pivot member rotable in a first direction against a first spring bias and in a second direction, opposite the first direction, against a second spring bias other than the first spring bias, andwherein the secondary pivot member is rotable around a secondary pivot of the apparatus, the secondary pivot member rotable in the first direction against a third spring bias other than the first spring bias and the second spring bias. |
| US08640992B2 |
Drill-elastic and flexurally rigid rod element for the support and guidance of a movable flap relative to a wing of an aircraft
A drill-elastic and flexurally rigid rod element (10) for supporting and guiding a movable flap (24) relatively to a wing (26) of an aircraft, wherein the rod element encompasses a cross-shaped profile cross section and first and second fastening sections (20, 22) and is made of a fiber composite material and the rod element can be fastened to the wing in a fixed manner via the first fastening sections (20) and to the flap (24) via the second fastening sections (22). The rod element and the fastening sections are laminated from a plurality of unidirectional, preimpregnated fibrous layers—prepreg layers—which are bonded to one another in the area of the fastening sections as well as in the cross-shaped cross section core area (28) and which are separated from one another in each case by a separating film inserted between the prepreg layers outside of the areas. |
| US08640988B2 |
Landing gear with composite leaf spring
An aircraft landing gear comprising: an arm mounted to a pivot and carrying one or more wheel assemblies; and a composite leaf spring which is coupled to the arm and arranged to provide a resilient biasing force which opposes rotation of the arm about the pivot. The arm can be made relatively stiff in comparison with the leaf spring, so that load is transferred directly into the pivot without a large amount of bending of the leg. The leaf spring shock absorber typically has a reduced part count compared with a conventional oleo-pneumatic shock absorber. By forming the leaf spring from a composite material, its weight is significantly reduced in comparison with a conventional metal spring, making it suitable for use on a relatively large aircraft. |
| US08640983B2 |
Rotor hub and controls for multi-bladed rotor system
A rotor system for a rotorcraft includes a rotor hub having a plurality of rotor blade pairs mechanically coupled to a rotor mast. A pitch link assembly is mechanically coupled to each rotor blade pair for controlling the pitch angle of each rotor blade pair in tandem. Each rotor blade pair has an upper rotor blade and a lower rotor blade. The plurality of rotor blade pairs rotor in a single direction and about a single axis of rotation. |
| US08640982B2 |
Strip material dispensing device
An apparatus for dispensing strip materials onto one or more moving substrates includes a frame extending transversally of the substrate path that supports guide arms. Each guide arm includes pulleys for dispensing strip materials and is able to be moved along the frame by a friction drive system, which includes crank shafts, pulleys, and cables. Each guide arm can be held in position by a friction braking system, which includes members that are pressed against components of the drive system to frictionally prevent motion. A position feedback system measures and displays the location of the guide arms. A substrate tracking and adjustment system tracks the position of the substrate as it moves side to side from a normal path and automatically adjusts the position of the frame along a guide track to maintain the guide arms in a desired position in relation to the substrate. |
| US08640978B2 |
Irrigation sprinkler nozzle with enhanced close-in water distribution
An improved irrigation sprinkler nozzle is provided for enhanced short range or close-in distribution of water for irrigating vegetation and the like positioned relatively close to the sprinkler. The improved sprinkler nozzle includes a nozzle passage for outward projection of a water stream, at least a portion of which is defined by a generally vertically oriented, fan-shaped spray pattern. A lower margin of the nozzle passage defining this fan-shaped pattern is lined with a plurality of forwardly extending ramps each formed with a selected width and a different declination angle. A portion of the water discharged through the nozzle passage is forced and guided downwardly along these ramps for enhanced close-in distribution of water near the sprinkler. |
| US08640977B2 |
Push-button for a system for dispensing a liquid under pressure
A push-button for a dispensing system for a liquid under pressure, the push-button includes a body having a mounting well on a delivery tube for the liquid under pressure and a housing in communication with the well, the housing being provided with an anvil around which a spraying nozzle is mounted in such a way as to form a dispensing path of the fluid between the housing and a vortex unit including a vortex chamber provided with a dispensing orifice as well as at least one supply channel of the chamber, the nozzle having a proximal wall wherein is formed a print of the vortex unit and the anvil having a distal wall whereon the proximal wall of the nozzle is pressing against in order to delimit the vortex unit between them, the distal wall having a recess which is formed across from the print of the vortex chamber, the maximum depth of the recess being between 25% and 300% of the minimum depth of the print of the supply channels. |
| US08640976B2 |
Spray gun having mechanism for internally swirling and breaking up a fluid
The present technique provides a system and method for improving atomization in a spray coating device by internally mixing and breaking up a desired coating fluid prior to atomization. In one embodiment, a flow barrier is disposed in the spray coating device downstream of an internal fluid valve and upstream of a fluid exit. The flow barrier may have a plurality of passages configured to direct fluid streams to create a fluid swirling and rotating motion around a central axis of a central flow path to facilitate fluid mixing and breakup. The plurality of passages may direct the fluid streams toward a surface, and may be angled substantially toward one another or diverging from one another. Embodiments of the spray coating device may further include an atomization mechanism adapted to facilitate formation of a spray of the fluid flowing from the fluid exit. The resulting spray coating has refined characteristics, such as reduced mottling. |
| US08640970B2 |
Air quality control system
The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for improving air quality. In one exemplary embodiment, the invention provides an air quality control system for maintaining or improving air quality within a room. The air quality control system includes a fan in fluid communication with a room. The fan is configured to vent air from within the room to control air quality therein. The air quality control system further includes a fluid flow sensor located proximate to a conduit. The fluid flow sensor is in communication with a wireless transmitter configured to generate a signal based upon fluid flow through the conduit. The air quality control system also includes a receiver configured to receive the wireless signal generated by the wireless transmitter, wherein the receiver is in communication with the fan to cause activation of the fan based upon the signal generated by the wireless transmitter. |
| US08640969B2 |
Thermostatic mixing valve for a domestic heating system
The invention relates to a thermostatic mixing valve comprising a hollow body having a first inlet, a second inlet, and an outlet in fluid communication with the first inlet and/or the second inlet via a mixing chamber. The flow through the valve is controlled by an axially extending thermostatic actuator comprising a stem, an enlarged portion and a heat sensitive bulb, said bulb extending into the mixing chamber. The thermostatic actuator is axially displaced between a first end position in which only the first inlet is connected to the outlet and a second end position in which only the second inlet is connected to the outlet. The thermostatic actuator is displaced in a sleeve member arranged to restrict the flow of water from the second inlet past the enlarged portion of the thermostatic actuator during its axial displacement until the thermostatic actuator reaches the second end position. |
| US08640967B2 |
Network system, cable set, and method and program for controlling network system
A network system for operating multiple printers in different locations includes an RFID tag or print information that is arranged at a location where the printer is used and stores location information for identifying the location. The system further includes a printer provided with location information read capability for electromagnetically reading the location information stored in the RFID tag or optically reading the location information stored in the print information. The system associates the read location information with a network address and assigns the associated network address to the printer that has the location information. |
| US08640962B2 |
Radiofrequency identification device and method for producing said device
The radio-frequency identification device includes embedded in an envelope a substrate on one face of which an antenna is produced and a chip connected to the antenna is positioned, a potting locally covering the substrate face level with the chip, an intermediate layer made of a magnetic superconductor material placed against the substrate on the antenna side, the intermediate layer having dimensions greater than those of the antenna so as to be able to cover the antenna and having a cavity arranged so that the potting and the chip can be approximately completely housed therein. |
| US08640958B2 |
Indicia reading terminal including optical filter
Embodiments of the present invention comprise an indicia reading terminal that is operatively configured to decode visible and non-visible decodable indicia. The terminal can comprise an excitation illumination module for illuminating the decodable indicia with light that has a wavelength selected so as to permit the decodable indicia to emit light. The terminal can also comprise a filter module with an optical filter that has filter regions configured to pass certain wavelengths of light. The terminal can also comprise an image sensor module with an image sensor located so as to receive light emitted from the decodable indicia from the filter region. |
| US08640957B2 |
Method and apparatus for locating bar codes including QR codes
A method for identifying a QR code in an image includes inputting an image, and using one or more computer processor to identify edges in the image; create an edge count image; label connected regions in the edge count image; create a candidate region list; for each individual candidate in the candidate region list: find regions that overlap with the region in the individual candidate; group regions that overlap into a group of overlapped regions; for each group: merge the overlapped regions into a merged region; add each merged region to the candidate region list to form a new candidate region list; and perform decoding of a QR code in each region in the new candidate region list. |
| US08640956B2 |
Accessing content via a matrix code
A system for accessing content corresponding to a matrix barcode, such as a video and/or audio content. The system may include a mobile computing device in communication with a content receiver. The mobile computing device may be configured to capture the matrix barcode, for example, via using an optical component and/or barcode scanner to record and/or scan the matrix barcode. The mobile computing device may also include a network interface component configured to transmit the matrix barcode to the content receiver. The content receiver may then receive the matrix barcode from the mobile computing device. The content receiver may include a processor to determine and/or access the content corresponding to the matrix barcode. The content receiver may then transmit the content to a display device. |
| US08640953B2 |
Decoding system running on a mobile device and coupled to a payment system that includes at least one of, a user database, a product database and a transaction database
A decoding system runs on a mobile device and is coupled to a payment system. The decoding engine decodes signals produced from a read of a first party's financial transaction card. A transaction engine runs on the mobile device and is coupled to the decoding engine. The transaction engine receives as its input decoded first party's financial transaction card information from the decoding engine. A payment system, in communication with the transaction engine, includes at least one of, a user database, a product database, and transaction database. |
| US08640952B2 |
Mobile code decoding fault recovery via history data analysis
An apparatus and method for mobile code decoding fault recovery are provided. The method includes scanning a mobile code, decoding the mobile code, when the mobile code is not decoded successfully, storing a decoded portion of the mobile code as a partially decoded mobile code, and decoding the mobile code based on a sequence alignment algorithm and a predetermined number of partially decoded mobile codes, and providing the decoded mobile code to the mobile device. |
| US08640951B2 |
Electronic delivery of admission tickets direct to a purchaser
Electronic delivery of counterfeit-resistant documents exchangeable for value such as admission tickets, gift certificates, coupons, vouchers, etc. directly to the person who ordered the documents over an open communications network such at the Internet. A first party orders a document from a second party, and the second party electronically delivers the ordered, counterfeit-resistant document to a device designated by the first party. For example, the document may be electronically ordered using a PC, and a printer coupled to the PC may print the document. In one embodiment, the first party transmits unsolicited offers over the open communications network The document may be made counterfeit resistant by assigning unique information to each document of a given type, e.g., admission tickets, and checking the uniqueness of a document and whether the unique information was previously read prior to allowing it to be exchanged for value. |
| US08640941B2 |
Fine grained Ni-based alloys for resistance to stress corrosion cracking and methods for their design
A class of nickel based alloys having a fine grain structure resistant to stress corrosion cracking, and methods of alloy design to produce further alloys within the class are presented. The alloys act as suitable welding materials in similar applications to that of Alloy 622. The fine-grained structure of these novel alloys may also be advantageous for other reasons as well such as wear, impact, abrasion, corrosion, etc. These alloys have similar phases to Alloy 622 in that they are composed primarily of austenitic nickel, however the phase morphology is a much finer grained structure opposed to the long dendritic grains common to Alloy 622 when it is subject to cooling rates from a liquid state inherent to the welding process. |
| US08640933B1 |
Vehicle cargo rack
A cargo rack secured to the roof of the vehicle wherein a portion of the cargo rack is operable to be extended beyond the rear roof-line of the vehicle and subsequently placed in an angular position with respect to the roof of the vehicle in order to facilitate the loading of objects within the cargo rack. The cargo rack further includes a first support rail and a second support rail that are securely mounted to the roof of the vehicle. A luggage frame is movably secured to the first support rail and second support rail. The first support rail and the second support rail further include extension members that facilitate the rearward movement of the luggage frame. A front lock is integrally secured to the first support rail and second support rail and is operable to maintain the luggage frame in a secure position. A rear lock is further included and is adjacent to and generally perpendicular with the luggage frame and functions to engage a portion thereof. |
| US08640930B2 |
Vent tube apparatus and method
A venting apparatus for a liquid dispensing container adapted to hold a quantity of liquid having a liquid level within the liquid dispensing container. The venting apparatus includes a vent that has an aperture through which gas can exit the liquid dispensing container, a float, a liquid barrier carried by the float, and a flexible tube connecting the vent and the float. The flexible tube establishes fluid communication for gas through the vent and the liquid barrier between an interior space within the liquid dispensing container located above the liquid level and an exterior of the liquid dispensing container. |
| US08640927B2 |
Dosing-device
The invention relates to a measuring device with a container of the aromatic liquid. Dosing-device includes a spout for the release of aroma, and a pump to pump up the aromatic liquid from the container to a cushion, where the aroma from the cushion is delivered to the spout. In one embodiment the dosing-device comprises two spouts separated from each other by a distance proportioned to the nostrils and where the spouts stand out from the container for insertion into the nostrils. This design is particularly well suited to deliver aroma to the nose. The dosing-device is designed to interact with a lid with plugs arranged to seal the spouts. This way the aroma is kept concentrated until its lid is removed for dosing. |
| US08640925B1 |
Divot fill/repair apparatus
A divot fill/repair apparatus for filling and repairing divots in the turf. The divot fill/repair apparatus includes a container assembly capable of being carried on a user's back, and a dispensing assembly being supported by the container assembly for dispensing fill material to fill and/or repair divots. |
| US08640924B2 |
Lifting and rotating water reservoir with attached water bottle for dispensing of water from water cooler
A water dispensing apparatus includes a lifting system and a water reservoir. The apparatus automatically installs a water bottle by lowering and inverting the water reservoir atop a water bottle, coupling the water reservoir to the water bottle, and raising and inverting the water reservoir with the water bottle coupled therewith. One or more compartments are filled with water from the inverted water bottle, and water is dispensed from each compartment through a dispenser. Multiple compartments may be included in the water reservoir, with the water in one compartment being electrically cooled and water in another compartment being electrically heated. |
| US08640918B2 |
Refillable material transfer system
A material transfer system for storing, transferring and dispensing viscous material, such as fluids and liquids, includes a material containment vessel with an upper region incorporating a motive force and a bottom region with a material ingress and egress opening. A diconical or other shaped force transfer device is located in the material containment area. The force transfer device is an energy transducer when the material containment is filled with highly viscous materials, such as adhesives, sealants, mastics or lubricating greases. The force transfer device serves as an integral part of a level indicator for both viscous fluids and lower viscosity liquids. The viscous material itself forms a seal between the interface region of the force transfer device and the inside wall of the fluid vessel. Vertical stabilizing elements may extend outward from the force transfer device. |
| US08640916B2 |
Sensor dispenser device and method of use
Disclosed herein are electrochemical sensor dispensing methods and apparatus. The sensors dispensers can include an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal, the elongate body including a proximally positioned dispensing surface with an opening for dispensing a sensor. A storage chamber having a series of connected sensors is positioned distally and can feed a proximally positioned sensor feeder mechanism. The feeder mechanism includes an elongate member having a first end and second end, the second end adapted to pivot between a sensor engaging position and a sensor feeding position. |
| US08640915B2 |
Gumball machine that dispenses multiple gumballs
A gumball machine has a gumball container that holds a plurality of gumballs, a neck portion coupled to the gumball container and having an actuator and a gumball dispensing assembly that is coupled to the actuator for simultaneously releasing a plurality of gumballs from the gumball container when the actuator is actuated. The gumball machine also has a plurality of cylindrical supports, each having an upper end coupled to the neck portion, and a lower end having a side opening. A base is coupled to the lower end of each cylindrical support and has a bottom portion that is seated on a surface. Each side opening of each cylindrical support is positioned adjacent a ramp such that a gumball travelling through the cylindrical support is dispensed via the side opening to the ramp. |
| US08640912B2 |
Box with foldable sidewalls and locking mechanisms with overload protection
A foldable box includes a floor and two longitudinal and transverse side exterior walls each lying opposite in pairs and foldable relative to the floor, each longitudinal side exterior walls including a protrusion at a transverse side end extending toward the transverse side exterior walls when upfolded, limiting foldability of the transverse side exterior walls to the outside. Each transverse side exterior wall including a locking mechanism at the outside of the transverse side exterior wall, including when upfolded, a snap-in element movable in a vertical direction relative to the floor surface, latchable with the protrusion. The protrusion and/or the snap-in element includes contact surfaces, inclined relative to the vertical direction when upfolded wherein the locking mechanism opens against a spring pretensioning when exceeding a predetermined inward force acting upon the transverse side exterior wall. |
| US08640910B2 |
Pressure container
A pressure container comprising a plastic container core (2) for storing a fluid under pressure, a support sheath (3) surrounding the plastic container core (2), a connection piece (4) formed at the plastic container core (2) and having an opening (5) for filling in and discharging the fluid from the plastic container core (2), a connection body (6) arranged radially outside the connection piece (4) and having a bore (7), a valve body (8) having a fluid duct (9) for conducting the fluid in and out through the opening (5) in the connection piece (4), wherein the valve body (8) is arranged in the opening (5) of the connection piece (4) and in the bore (7) of the connection body (6), wherein the connection body (4) has at least one radially inside annular groove (12) and a second seal (13) is arranged in the at least one radially inside annular groove (12), so that the second seal (13) rests radially outside on the connection piece (4). |
| US08640907B1 |
Retrofit for floating roof tanks
Floating roof tanks typically have a leg-actuated pressure-vacuum vent to provide relief upon emptying or filling the space below the roof. This vent leg must hit prior to other legs requiring additional working capital inventory (heel). This retrofit non-leg actuated pressure vacuum (P-V) vent reduces inventory. This P-V vent retrofit provides necessary pressure or vacuum management and at less required tank bottom inventory. The retrofit vent also eliminates the leg-actuated P-V vent. |
| US08640906B2 |
Multipurpose cooking stove container
A multipurpose cooking stove container is described having a cavity for storing items such as cleaning products and hand sanitizer. The cooking stove container may further comprise a paper towel support and mounting bracket for attachment to a cooking stove or side shelf of a cooking stove. The cooking stove container may also be configured to be resistant to environmental elements such as rain, wind, dust, pollen and the like. A tray portion may be used for storing items and a removable cup may be inserted into the tray for more secure storage of smaller items. The cooking stove container may in one embodiment comprise a front and back member that are attached about a pivot. The front member may pivot to allow access to the inside cavity. |
| US08640905B2 |
Container
A container includes a container body defining a container cavity, the container includes a container top configured to create at least two container openings via at least partial depression of at least two container portions into the cavity defined by the container body. |
| US08640902B2 |
Drinking container vent system and method
The present invention relates to a drinking apparatus including a vent system that removably connects to a drinking container. The vent system is used to form a variety of leak free and essentially vacuum-free drinking containers. The vent system, includes a closure member and a valve, and may be used with an anti-bubble tube. The closure member may be a single member or may be formed of two portions. The valve may be coupled thereto or integrally formed therewith. The anti-bubble tube and valve function as a diving bell to generally prevent liquid from entering the anti-bubble tube. |
| US08640896B2 |
Angle adjustment of a jib system
Method for adjusting the angle of a jib system of a crane, comprising the steps of providing two jib units of the jib system, which can be variably arranged with respect to their longitudinal axes in an angle position in relation to one another, arranging connecting links attached to the jib units in such a way that the longitudinal axes of the jib units are parallel in a starting angle position, starting openings and target openings of the connecting links are aligned with one another pairwise to insert a connecting element connecting the jib units, the aligned starting openings being connected with the connecting element, relieving the connecting element connecting the aligned starting openings, removing the first connecting element, connecting a pair of the aligned target openings with the connecting element, and arranging the jib units in a target angle position which is different from the starting angle position. |
| US08640895B2 |
Drum tensioning method and apparatus for load hoist wire rope
A drum tensioning method is provided for operating a crane having a continuously reeved load hoist line, with a first end of the load hoist line connected to a first drum and a second end of the load hoist line connected to a second drum, with the load hoist line reeved through boom sheaves and a hook block. The method includes the steps of applying a hold-back force to the second drum; applying a winding force to the first drum greater than the hold back force on the second drum; and applying the winding and hold back forces while limiting movement of the hook block, thereby spooling the load hoist line from the second drum through the boom sheaves and hook block to the first drum while maintaining tension in the load hoist line such that the load hoist line is wound under more tension on the first drum than it had previously been wound on the second drum. |
| US08640889B2 |
Utility storage rack
The present invention improves upon storage racks with a design that accepts and organizes a plurality of bottles, cans, and other objects of varying size. The device comprises a four-sided frame having a plurality of apertures forming container members spaced thereon and adapted to hold objects of varying size. The interior frame includes a plurality of container support brackets that provide support to both the frame, and a plurality of objects stored therein. The device further comprises a plurality of apertures spaced about the front face, which creates a pegboard surface that can accept a variety of attachments for hanging objects therefrom. The present invention can further be mounted to a vertical support wall, thereby preventing the device from taking up floor our countertop space, which can then be utilized for other purposes. |
| US08640871B2 |
Stackable merchandise trays
Rugged stackable merchandise tray containers are provided with right-angled mounting tabs at the inner corners of the top panel of two load supporting casing formed at the two ends of the tray container. The right-angled mounting tabs are engageable with rectangular mounting openings formed at the bottom of the bottom panel when two tray containers are stacked one on top of another. The mounting provide resistance to accidental external impact exerted to the stack. At least one trapezoidal shape pull-out tabs are also provided at the edge portion of the bottom panel, which are engageable with aligned mounting slots formed at the top panel of the load supporting casings to provide further securement of the stacked tray containers as well as enhanced resistance to external impact to the stack. |
| US08640868B2 |
Case assembly and method for covering and protecting a portable device
A case assembly for a portable device is provided that has a first sleeve member, a second sleeve member and a customized plate member. The first sleeve member is mated with the second sleeve member to encase the portable device. The customized plate member is configured and arranged to connect with the first sleeve member and the second sleeve member. |
| US08640865B2 |
Cap for storing materials separate from a body of liquid and facilitating subsequent mixing of the materials and the liquid
A closure attachable over the opening of a container that selectively facilitates mixing of a component (e.g., supplement, vitamins, etc.) of any appropriate form (e.g., powders, flakes, liquids) with a liquid in the container to create a mixture. In one aspect, the closure includes a body, a storage compartment within the body, a nozzle movably received on the annular wall, a cap receivable over a portion of the body and the nozzle, an annular pull strip surrounding the body and spacing the first end of the cap from an outer collar of the body, and a plunger disposed within the storage compartment that is adapted to selectively break a seal to allow for mixing between the component and the liquid. |
| US08640860B2 |
Device for gripping a blow-moulding container preform
Device (1) for gripping an object such as a blow-molding container preform (3), comprising: a guiding body (12); a stop body (13), mounted so as to move axially relative to the guiding body (12) along an axis (4) of the device, intended to be aligned with the object (3) to be gripped; a mandrel support (7), equipped with a gripping mandrel (15), able to move axially relative to the guiding body (12) and having a plunge-in travel (8) going from a set-back position to a plunged-in position in which the mandrel (15) is capable of gripping the object (3). The stop body (13) has, together with the mandrel support (7), a system of support stops (18, 19) arranged so that the mandrel support (7) drives the stop body (13) axially onto a terminal portion of the plunge-in travel (8). The device (1) includes a return means (34, 36) mounted between the guiding body (13) and the stop body, for the purpose of driving the stop body along an axial set-back direction opposite direction of plunge-in travel. |
| US08640855B2 |
Apparatus and method for passive dust control in a transfer chute
A dust control apparatus and method for a bulk material handling transfer system having a chute comprising a pathway there through for handling varying volumes of bulk material flowing through the chute using gravity flow. A self-adjusting air restrictor gate is mounted in the chute for engaging the upper surface of flowing bulk material through the chute for restricting the air pathway during material volume flow variations to reduce dust emissions. The gate member contacts the upper surface of flowing bulk material and moves up and down in response to the flow of bulk material through the chute to restrict the flow of air to reduce dust. A counterweight mechanism and a damper helps maintain controlled contact of the air restrictor gate with the upper surface of bulk material flowing through the chute. |
| US08640850B2 |
Device for the acceptance of coins
A device for the acceptance of coins which allows the acceptance of individual coins as well as the acceptance of various coins for further processing of the coins, whereby the device includes a laterally moveable holding fixture. The holding fixture has a side with a coin insertion slot, and a receptacle area for the reception of a plurality of coins. |
| US08640847B2 |
Packaging apparatus
A packaging apparatus includes a chute, a moving member, and a control unit. The chute encloses a passage space, and has a slit formed in a first portion. Items to be packaged are supplied from an upper apparatus to the passage space. The first portion surrounds a first space. The first space is part of the passage space, where the items targeted to be packaged, readily become clogged. The moving member is configured to move into the first space and withdraw from the first space through the slit. The control unit causes the moving member to enter the first space after the items targeted to be packaged have passed through the first space. |
| US08640845B2 |
Clutch driving device
A clutch driving device includes a pair of first and second roller wing arms horizontally moving to both sides by moving body moving forward/backward on an axial center line of an actuator and a roller inclined cam surface defining a move path of a pivot is formed such that first and second roller wing arms horizontally move to both sides from the axial center line of actuator, on the surface of a lever generating a stroke at a release bearing. Therefore, the lever can be lifted above a clutch engagement gap where a sufficient stroke is generated at the release bearing engaging a clutch, such that it is possible to achieve sufficient performance even if the output of actuator is reduced by the amount of energy consumption which is relative reduced. |
| US08640844B2 |
Dry clutch
In a dry clutch, the space between dry-clutch plates and a bearing, which bearing is interposed between a first piston and a second piston, is blocked off. Also provided is a structure for supplying the bearing with lubricating oil, and thus it is possible to provide the dry clutch, without causing upsizing the bearing. |
| US08640838B2 |
Torque compensation method and system
A system and method of compensating for torque converter slip in a motor vehicle include measuring rotational speeds of an engine crankshaft and mainshaft, as well as measuring operating temperatures of a fluid associated with the motor vehicle. Engine output torque is adjusted as required by controlling some combination of ignition timing, intake air flow, fuel injection, and accessory load. |
| US08640830B2 |
Hydraulic system for double stacker industrial truck
The invention relates to hydraulic system for an double stacker truck comprising a pump for providing hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic system and a first hydraulic lifting cylinder for moving a first load carriage and a second hydraulic lifting cylinder for moving a second load carriage of the truck, the hydraulic lifting system is characterized in a flow divider for dividing the flow of hydraulic fluid between the first and the second hydraulic cylinder and a first directional valve which is arranged open in a first direction for leading hydraulic fluid to the first lifting cylinder or to open in a second direction for leading hydraulic fluid to the second hydraulic cylinder. The invention also relates to a double stacker truck comprising a hydraulic system for moving the load carriages of the truck. |
| US08640829B2 |
Hydraulic elevator system
The hydraulic elevator system has several configurations, each incorporating the hydraulic motor and pump at the lower end of the hydraulic ram and cylinder assembly. A first embodiment utilizes a wet pump and motor assembly at the lower end of the cylinder, with the volume between the cylinder and casing providing a hydraulic reservoir. A second embodiment provides a dry pump and motor installed at the lower end of the cylinder below the surrounding casing and hydraulic reservoir. A third embodiment attaches the pump and motor to the lower end of the hydraulic ram, with the pump and motor traveling up and down with the ram during operation. Further systems facilitating the installation and removal of the hydraulic cylinder and attached components for maintenance are also provided. |
| US08640822B2 |
Exhaust muffler
An exhaust muffler includes a pair of base members disposed substantially parallel to one another and defining an exhaust entry and exhaust exit. At least one wall member is coupled to the base members. The at least one wall member is intermediate the base members and intermediate the entry and exit. The at least one wall member includes a linear portion coupled to a semicircular portion. |
| US08640819B2 |
Enclosure, assembly and method for reducing noise from a pump and mass spectrometry system
The invention provides a noise reducing enclosure for reducing the noise from a vacuum pump, e.g. a roughing pump of a high vacuum system, the vacuum pump having a long axis and the enclosure comprising a noise dampening material and being shaped to radially enclose the vacuum pump along its long axis and being axially open at each end. Airflow is permitted through the enclosure in use and optional integrated cooling means on the pump may assist cooling of the pump. The invention also provides an assembly of the pump and enclosure, a method for reducing the noise from a vacuum pump using the enclosure and a mass spectrometry system comprising: a mass spectrometer having one or more chambers therein which in operation are held under vacuum; and a vacuum pumping system for producing said vacuum, the vacuum pumping system comprising at least one vacuum pump which has a long axis and wherein the mass spectrometry system further comprises a noise reducing enclosure for radially enclosing the vacuum pump along its long axis, wherein the enclosure is axially open at each end. |
| US08640815B2 |
Boot assembly
A boot assembly includes a boot and a retention band. The retention band includes a ring, a lever attached to the ring and a clasp associated with the ring and configured for selective engagement with the lever. The boot includes an annular wall defining a hollow interior configured to receive a portion of a drive assembly of a vehicle. The boot further includes a rib, the rib being integral with the annular wall and extending radially outwardly from the annular wall. The rib and the annular wall cooperate to define an annular channel that is configured to receive the retention band. The rib extends radially outwardly beyond the ring, the lever and the clasp of the retention band when the retention band is seated within the annular channel. |
| US08640812B2 |
Electric drive axle configuration
The present disclosure provides a front axle of a vehicle including a motor disposed near the center of the axle and a shaft coupled at one end thereof to the motor, where the shaft defines a first axis. A first gear is coupled to a second gear, the first gear being coupled to the shaft at an end opposite the motor and being disposed along the first axis. The second gear is disposed along a second axis, where the first axis and second axis are substantially parallel to but spaced from one another. A steering pivot defines a steering axis about which a final drive assembly pivots and a wheel lean pivot defines a lean axis about which the final drive pivots. The lean axis is substantially perpendicular to the steering axis. A constant-velocity joint is disposed at the intersection of the steering axis and lean axis. |
| US08640810B2 |
Control device of electric motorcycle
A battery is disposed close to a through-hole of a swing shaft that pivotally supports a swing arm on a vehicle body frame so as to be freely swingable at a position closer to the front of the vehicle body in the swing arm. An electric motor is disposed close to an axle of a rear wheel at a position closer to the rear of the vehicle body in the swing arm. The control board is disposed at a position outside of the battery in the vehicle width direction, and the heating element board is disposed at a position rearward of the vehicle body with respect to the control board and forward of the vehicle body with respect to the motor. |
| US08640809B2 |
Flywheel assemblies and vehicles including same
A vehicle includes a frame, an engine, a steering assembly, a steerable wheel, a brake system, a flywheel assembly, and a controller. The frame defines a roll axis. The engine is supported by the frame. The steering assembly is pivotally coupled with the frame and is pivotable about a steering axis. The steerable wheel is rotatably coupled with the steering assembly. The flywheel assembly comprises at least one inertial mass and is coupled with the frame. A controller is coupled with the flywheel assembly and is configured to facilitate rotation of said at least one inertial mass. |
| US08640807B2 |
Vehicle
An inverted pendulum type vehicle provided with a body, a pair of wheels and that is attached to the pertinent body and that is arranged in parallel, drive mechanisms and that separately rotate the pertinent pair of wheels and around wheel axes, and a control member that controls the drive mechanisms and, wherein: the body is provided with a base to which the pair of wheels and is attached, a column disposed upright from the base, and a load-supporting part that is attached to the column and that sustains a payload; the column is joined to the base via a shaft that extends in a non-parallel direction relative to the wheel axes, and is provided so as to be capable of sliding around the shaft; and the shaft is provided with an actuator which imparts torque to the column that slides around the shaft with an orientation that is the reverse of the sliding direction of the column. |
| US08640806B2 |
Transport means and a vehicle
A transport means (1) comprising: —at least two wheels (2), —a chassis (3) with a longitudinal axis, which is substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the transport means (1), and —at least one suspension system (4) operationally positioned between the chassis (3) and the wheels (2), wherein each wheel (2) has a wheel rotation axis (5), which is substantially horizontal, wherein the suspension system (4) includes a connection means (22) that interact releasably with a connection means (23) on the chassis (3), and wherein the suspension system (4) has a first orientation, wherein the suspension system (4) has at least one other orientation which is rotated in relation to the first orientation about a suspension rotation axis (6), which is substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chassis (3). |
| US08640803B2 |
Hydraulic excavator
A hydraulic excavator includes a lower travel body, an upper swivel body, a cooling unit, and first and second exterior members. The cooling unit includes a first cooling device disposed facing the first exterior member, and a second cooling device disposed on a side of the first cooling device towards the second exterior member and in midway in an air channel between the second exterior device and a cooling fan. The second cooling device extends in a direction intersecting a direction in which the first cooling device extends. The first and second exterior members have first and second openings in portions that overlap the first and second cooling devices in a height direction, respectively. A lower edge of one of the first opening and the second opening disposed at a higher position is positioned higher than an upper edge of the other of the first opening and the second opening. |
| US08640795B2 |
Shock reduction tool for a downhole electronics package
A tool string disposed in at least one tubular having upper and lower threaded connections to connect to a drill string. The tool string includes a shock reduction tool, which includes an anchoring tail piece axially and rotationally fixed to the at least one tubular. A universal bore hole orientation (UBHO) muleshoe sub is disposed at an upper end of the shock reduction tool. A downhole electronics package coupled to the UBHO muleshoe sub. |
| US08640792B2 |
Flexible directional drilling apparatus and related methods
A bottom hole assembly to directionally drill a subterranean formation includes a drill bit, a stabilizer assembly located proximate to and behind the drill bit, a drilling assembly comprising a drive mechanism and a directional mechanism, and a flex housing integral with the drilling assembly. |
| US08640790B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for motion compensation using wired drill pipe
An apparatus, a system and a method for motion compensation use wired drill pipe to transmit downhole measurements from downhole tools to the surface. The wired drill pipe may transmit control signals from a terminal located at the surface to the downhole tools. In response to the control signals, a motion compensation component may enable the drill string to compensate for motion, such as, for example, heave. The motion compensation component may change a length of the drill string. A downhole tool having arms may be connected to the drill string and the wired drill pipe. The control signals may direct the downhole tool to move between an extended position and a retracted position. |
| US08640786B2 |
Percussive augmenter of rotary drills for operating as a rotary-hammer drill
A percussive augmenter bit includes a connection shaft for mounting the bit onto a rotary drill. In a first modality, an actuator percussively drives the bit, and an electric slip-ring provides power to the actuator while being rotated by the drill. Hammering action from the actuator and rotation from the drill are applied directly to material being drilled. In a second modality, a percussive augmenter includes an actuator that operates as a hammering mechanism that drives a free mass into the bit creating stress pulses that fracture material that is in contact with the bit. |
| US08640782B2 |
Pressure assisted variable flow clean throat aerial retardant delivery system
An aerial retardant delivery system comprising a retardant tank mountable in the fuselage of an aircraft. The tank includes a pressure opening in fluid communication with the fuselage such that pressure in the fuselage may act on retardant contained in the tank. The tank includes an outlet extending through a sidewall of the aircraft's fuselage, through which retardant may be delivered to a target. The system also includes a discharge gate operative to open and close the outlet. An actuation mechanism is disposed on the exterior of the tank and operatively coupled to the at least one discharge gate. A variable flow controller controls the discharge gate open position in order to provide retardant over a desired area of terrain. A one-way flapper is disposed in the pressure opening and is operative to allow pressure in the fuselage to enter the tank while inhibiting retardant from spilling from the tank. |
| US08640775B2 |
Multi-deployable subsea stack system
Methods for deploying a subsea blowout preventer stack system comprising a lower marine riser package, a blowout preventer stack with a first ram blowout preventer, and an additional blowout preventer package releasably coupled to the blowout preventer stack and comprising a second ram blowout preventer. The subsea blowout preventer stack assembly can be deployed by coupling a drilling riser to the lower marine riser package that is releasably connected to the blowout preventer stack. The lower marine riser package and blowout preventer stack are then toward a subsea wellhead and then landed on the additional blowout preventer package that is coupled to the subsea wellhead. |
| US08640774B1 |
Method of treating a formation
A method of treating a portion of a subterranean formation that includes: providing a water-in-oil emulsion, inverting the water-in-oil emulsion to form a friction reducing treatment solution, and introducing the treatment solution into the portion of the subterranean formation. The water-in-oil emulsion has an oil phase, an aqueous phase and surfactants. The oil phase (O) and an aqueous phase (A) are present at an O/A ratio of from about 1:8 to about 10:1. The oil phase is present as a continuous phase and contains an inert hydrophobic liquid. The aqueous phase is present as a dispersed phase of distinct particles in the oil phase and includes water and a water soluble polymer. The water soluble polymer makes up from 10 to 25 weight percent of the water-in-oil emulsion. The water-in-oil emulsion is inverted by adding it to water to form a friction reducing treatment solution. |
| US08640773B2 |
Method of tracing flow of hydrocarbon from a subterranean reservoir
A method of tracing flow of hydrocarbon from a subterranean reservoir including forming a dispersion, injecting a hydraulic fracturing fluid containing the dispersion down a well penetrating a hydrocarbon reservoir, thereafter collecting a sample of hydrocarbon fluid flowing from the reservoir, and analyzing the sample to determine whether the tracer compound is present in the sample. The dispersion includes a discontinuous condensed phase having a hydrocarbon-soluble tracer compound and a continuous phase which includes an aqueous liquid. |
| US08640766B2 |
Heat exchanger tube
A heat exchanger tube comprising an Al alloy extruded tube, and a flux layer including Si powder, Zn-containing flux, and binder formed on an outer surface of the Al alloy extruded tube, wherein an amount of the Si powder applied on the Al alloy extruded tube is in a range of 1 g/m2 or more and 5 g/m2 or less, an amount of the Zn containing flux applied on the Al alloy extruded tube is in a range of 3 g/m2 or more and 20 g/m2 or less, and the Si powder has a particle diameter distribution such that 99% particle diameter is 5 μm or more and 20 μm or less, and an amount of coarse particle having a diameter of not smaller than 5 times (D99) is less than 1 ppm by volume. |
| US08640762B2 |
Blind slat controller with braking function
A blind slat controller with braking function for rotating and locating blind slats at a certain light obstruction angle. The blind slat controller includes and a base seat and a cord reel having a protruding push body. The push body serves to push a coiled spring to unbind or bind a hub section of the base seat, whereby the cord reel is permitted to rotate or is braked and prevented from rotating. When unbound, a slat control rod can be driven and rotated to control the rotational angle of the blind slats. After the blind slats are rotated to a predetermined light obstruction angle, the cord reel stops rotating. At this time, due to the coiled spring's own elasticity, the coiled spring is restored to again bind the hub section. Accordingly, the cord reel is prevented from rotating to locate the blind slats at the predetermined light obstruction angle. |
| US08640761B2 |
Systems and method for a barrier with interchangeable panels
A method and system for a barrier system configured to controllably block egress from and ingress to a predetermined area is provided. The barrier system includes a barrier panel that is removable from the barrier system and replaceable with another different barrier panel selectable by a user. |
| US08640758B1 |
Tracer wire applicator apparatus and method
A tracer wire applicator preferably includes a base frame, a wire spindle, a tape spindle and a pipe roller. The base frame preferably includes a base frame member, a support frame member and an upper frame member. One end of the upper frame member is removably secured to one end of the base frame member. One end of the support frame member is removably attached to the base frame member and the other end is attached to the upper frame member. The pipe roller is rotatably retained on the other end of the base frame member. The tape spindle extends from the base frame member to rotatably receive a roll of tape. A wire spindle extends from the base frame member to rotatably receive a wire reel. A wire guide tube is preferably retained by the upper frame member. |
| US08640757B2 |
Composite material layup including trim-on-the-fly
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for manufacturing multiple layer composite structures and structures containing components made of multiple layer composite structures, comprising dispensing layers of composite material, trimming each layer to its final shape as it is being dispensed, and positioning it properly with respect to prior layers in the part lay-up. |
| US08640755B2 |
Securing mechanism and method for wafer bonder
Disclosed are various features associated with a securing mechanism for a wafer bonder. In certain situations, operation of securing mechanisms can generate undesirable particles and debris, and some them can be introduced to a wafer being bonded. In certain implementations, a securing mechanism can be configured to reduce the likelihood of such particles and debris being introduced to the wafer. |
| US08640747B2 |
Medicine filling device
A medicine filling device for filling empty vials of different shapes and sizes with medicine without having to replace any members or having to perform any special operations is disclosed. More specifically, the medicine filling device is provided with a first transfer means to transfer an empty vial B stored within a stocker while the vial B is positioned on a side, a vial lifter (second transfer means) to hold the transferred vial B in an upright position and to move said vial B towards a medicine filling unit, and a vial orientation detection means to detect the orientation of the vial B which was removed from the stocker by the first transfer means. The first transfer means is provided with a reversal mechanism and the vial B is supplied to the vial lifter from the first transfer means while the bottom of the vial B faces a vial guiding means. |
| US08640745B2 |
Tire repair device containing tire cement
A tire repair device comprises: a bottle body 10 containing tire cement, and a bottle cap 20 formed at an opening of the bottle body 10. A tire cement guiding tube is provided in the bottle cap 20, in which the guiding tube includes a first tube section 21 axially parallel to the bottle body 10 and a second tube section 22 perpendicular to the first section 21 of the tube. The second tube section 22 connects with an end of a fluid transfer tube 30, and a connector 40 is formed at the other end of the fluid transfer tube 30, and the connector is connected to a tire to deliver tire cement from the bottle body 10 to damaged areas of the tire. A step 25 is formed along the inside wall between an entrance 211 of the first tube section 21 and an entrance 221 of the second tube section 22. A rubber plug 24 is provided between the step 25 and the entrance 211 of the first tube section 21; and the connecting point of the second tube section 22 and the first tube section 21 is located between the step 25 and the end 212 of the first tube section 21. |
| US08640741B2 |
Woven papermaker fabric, in particular a forming fabric
A woven papermaker fabric having a first woven fabric layer made of first threads and having a second woven fabric layer made of second threads, the two woven fabric layers being connected by binder threads formed by structural second threads at binder points and having knuckles having peaks constituting a peak plane parallel to a paper side plane, and the first threads forming knuckles with concave inner bends, the points of which lying nearest to the paper side plane constituting an inner plane, wherein the tension of the first threads extending transversely to the binder threads is such that the peak plane is nearer to the paper side plane than the inner plane thereby causing lateral deflections of at least one of the first threads. |
| US08640737B2 |
Apparatus and method for sealing pipes and underground structures
An apparatus and method for sealing pipes or underground structures is provided. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. In another embodiment, a manhole is sealed by the use of a sealing member, a mechanical fastener, and a manhole liner. |
| US08640734B2 |
Manufacturing method of flow passage network and flow passage network using the same
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a manufacturing method of a flow passage network and a flow passage network for minimizing energy loss occurring during fluid flow, and there are effects in which flow loss is reduced during fluid transport and the energy efficiency of flow passages increases by optimizing geometric factors of flow passages on the basis of biomimetic techniques and theoretical formulae of fluid mechanics. Further, it is effective in manufacturing microfluidics in which laminar flow with a low Reynolds number is dominant. |
| US08640729B2 |
Method and apparatus for automatic fluid shut-off
An automatic shut-off valve shuts off fluid flow in the event of abnormal amounts of fluid flow. A rotor inside the valve turns when fluid flows through the valve. The rotor causes a pneumatic pump to operate and cause increased air pressure. The increased air pressure causes a shut-off piston to move to a closed position when a predetermined air pressure is achieved. The shut-off valve also includes an adjustable bleeder needle to slowly bleed off air pressure when the fluid flow stops and thereby resets the valve. A detent is provided for holding the shut-off piston in the open position. A detent spring and compression bolt are provided for adjusting force on the detent. The shut-off valve is manually closed using a trip arm connected to the detent. The shut-off piston is reset by actuating a reset plunger that moves the piston back to the open position. |
| US08640727B2 |
Dopant gas generating device
The present invention relates to a dopant gas generating device for supplying the dopant gas to the ion mobility spectrometry instrument, comprising: a doping container; an air inlet having an inlet end connecting with an upstream side of a carrier gas passage and an outlet end connecting with the doping container; an air outlet having an entrance end connecting with the doping container and an exit end connecting with an downstream side of the carrier gas passage; a dopant gas generating unit for releasing the dopant gas, wherein the dopant gas generating unit is disposed within the doping container. Through disposing the dopant gas generating unit, which is used for releasing the dopant gas, within the doping container, the dopant gas in the present invention is applicable with not only a solid state dopant, but also a liquid state dopant. |
| US08640726B2 |
Cold and hot water balancing valve structure
A cold and hot water balancing valve assembly which can fit common standard specifications. The bottom ends of the cold and hot water through holes of the high legged seat are configured with a water inlet pipe set housing groove for fitting an eccentrically positioned assembled water inlet pipe set, which are made up of cold and hot water tubes. When the meshing edges of the cold and hot water tubes are joined together, a balancing valve housing space is defined inside to hold a cold and hot water balancing valve unit. The cold and hot water balancing valve assembly dramatically reduces the production cost of cold-hot balancing valves while realizing the cold and hot water balancing function. |
| US08640725B2 |
Connector for transferring fluid and method of use
A connector for transferring fluid and method therefor. The connector may have a first port, a second port, and a third port which may be coupled together at a main channel with a first valve element therein controlling fluid flow through the first port. The first valve element is supported by a valve element support positioned between the first port and the third port, and the second port joins the main channel to provide a fluid path around the first valve element and through the third port. |
| US08640724B2 |
Valve control system and valve control method
A valve control system includes general-purpose valves arranged in a pipe that allows the flow of fluid, first and second sensors, and a safety controller. The general-purpose valves are valves that can be opened and closed according to electric signals, and may be, e.g., solenoid valves, respectively. The first and second sensors are sensors that detect a state of fluid flowing from the corresponding valves, and are formed of, e.g., pressure switches, respectively. The safety controller may satisfy safety standards, and outputs signals for controlling the valves based on signals provided from the first and second sensors, respectively. |
| US08640722B2 |
Rail skirt system
The rail skirt system includes a top rail, a skirt that hangs from the top rail, formed from rail bar members connected together at their inner ends by a middle connector tube connectable to a locking support leg, to provide support for the top rail on a side of a shelter. The outer ends of the rail bar members are connected to legs of the shelter by fixed corner connecting brackets. |
| US08640719B2 |
Bottle cleaning machine
A bottle cleaning machine and to a method for cleaning bottles with a bottle transporting device for transporting the bottles to be cleaned and with spraying nozzles. The bottle transporting device is configured such that the bottles are transported past the spraying nozzles along a substantially spiral transportation path, and preferably about a horizontal axis. |
| US08640718B2 |
Vehicle spray washer with lighted spray arm
A spray-type car wash system includes an overhead carriage which can move longitudinally the length of a wash bay. A pair of laterally opposed spray arms depend from the carriage. During vehicle entry into the bay, LED-based lights running down the length of each arm are caused to flash to help the driver center a vehicle between the arms. Cushioning and breakaway features protect the arms from damage. A single-arm system is also disclosed. A double-light, stationary support system is also disclosed. |
| US08640717B2 |
Multipurpose sequential droplet applicator
Embodiments of this device or method repeatedly apply droplets of two or more liquids by means of nozzles of fixed relative direction in an alternate or sequential manner to a target location on a surface for removing material from the surface, adding material to the surface, or using the surface to biphasically catalyze a reaction of components of the liquids. The droplets have essentially no contact with one another before reaching the surface (FIG. 12A thru 13H). The effect of the droplets on the target surface can be modified by a continuous or interrupted flow of air or other gas to the target surface (FIG. 27A thru 29H), or by application of radiations such as sonic or ultrasonic radiation, or various frequencies of electromagnetic radiation, to the target surface, or some combination of these. Means may be included for adjusting the temperature of the liquids and gasses. |
| US08640716B2 |
Cosmetic applicator
An object of the present invention is to provide a cosmetic applicator in which a surface of a wide, flat spatula projecting from a shaft includes an application portion formed from flock but the flock does not peel due to friction with a wiping part even after repeated use. In a cosmetic applicator in which electrostatic flocking is implemented on a surface of a spatula formed by forming an application portion in a flat plate shape, forming a root portion in a columnar shape attached to a shaft, and gradually deforming the columnar root portion and the flat application portion from the columnar shape into the plate shape, a projecting portion that projects outward beyond an outer diameter of the shaft is formed on the spatula between the root portion and the application portion, and a part not subjected to flocking is provided between the projecting portion and the root portion. |
| US08640714B2 |
Oral chewable tobacco product and method of manufacture thereof
An oral chewable tobacco product includes a gum composition in an amount of about 30% to about 70% by weight based on the weight of the oral chewable tobacco product and tobacco powder in an amount of about 30% to about 70% by weight based on the weight of the oral chewable tobacco product. The gum composition includes at least one environmentally biodegradable polymer in an amount of about 20% to about 95% by weight based on the weight of the gum composition and at least one softener in an amount of about 5% to about 80% by weight based on the weight of the gum composition. |
| US08640712B2 |
Bolus
A bolus for monitoring the parameters of an animal. The bolus will sense selective parameters and will send signals representative of those parameters to a receiver. The bolus includes sensors for sensing a number of parameters such as temperature, pH and movement. The power of the signal inside the animal is greater than that outside the animal since the signal is attenuated by the structure of the animal. |
| US08640708B2 |
Restraining glove
The present invention is a restraining glove that includes a base glove with a mitt portion and a bottom portion, a hook and loop strap with a hook portion and a loop portion and a belt loop disposed on the bottom portion of the base glove. The restraining glove also includes a crease disposed on the hook and loop strap, the crease is accommodated and received by the belt loop when the hook and loop strap is wrapped around the belt strap and a mesh portion that covers the top of the mitt portion of the base glove, the mesh portion provides a high degree of comfort to the user. |
| US08640705B2 |
Anti-snoring device
An intraoral anti-snoring device, for shifting the lower jaw forward in relation to the upper jaw, with an upper jaw bar and a lower jaw bar that are both U-shaped and are connected to each other in a hinge joint at their outer flanks facing away from each other via protrusion ties by means of fixing buttons. At each of the two end sections of the protrusion tie, a round hole is provided for accepting the fixing button. The invention proposes a curved design for the protrusion tie, specifically an S-shaped design, with the center section having a cross-sectional contour—at least in part—that permits a temporary change of the distance of the round holes relative to each other by means of an elastic deformation of the protrusion tie in the longitudinal and in transverse direction. Preferably, the center section has an elongated hole that extends from one round hole to the other round hole and has a width that is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the round hole. Due to the resulting longitudinal edge strips that are capable of spring action, the fixing button is able to avoid excessive pressure by moving into the elongated hole. |
| US08640703B2 |
Patient cassette with variable patient circuit volume
A flexible patient cassette that can be optimized for different types of breathing circuits, different drive circuits and different patient categories has a first inlet arranged to be connected to a drive circuit, and at least a second inlet arranged to be connected to a patient connector, the first and second inlets being pneumatically connected with each other through a gas conducting passage constituting a patient circuit having a certain volume. The patient cassette has a volume-varying arrangement for varying the patient circuit volume to allow that volume to be varied in dependence of at least one of the type of breathing circuit in which the patient cassette is used; the type of drive circuit to which the patient cassette is connected; the tidal volume of a patient connected to the patient connector. |
| US08640701B2 |
Carbon dioxide-based bi-level CPAP control
A system and method of providing bi-level CPAP therapy is provided that incorporates an infrared carbon-dioxide sensor to determine whether a patient is inhaling or exhaling. Patient exhalation causes the infrared light to be absorbed, while patient inhalation reduces the presence of carbon-dioxide causes little or no absorption of carbon-dioxide. The level of carbon-dioxide in an associated patient breathing interface is monitored for thresholds that trigger higher CPAP pressure upon inhalation and lower CPAP pressure upon exhalation. |
| US08640695B2 |
Device for dispensing a fluid product
A fluid dispenser device including a body provided with a dispenser orifice; at least one reservoir containing a dose of fluid, such as pharmaceutical powder; a movable support mechanism that receives at least one reservoir, and that is displaceable between a non-dispensing position and a dispensing position. A reservoir-opening mechanism opens a reservoir when actuated and a stressing mechanism that includes an elastically-deformable stressing element, urges the movable support mechanism towards a dispensing position. An inhalation trigger releases a blocking element and which enables the movable support mechanism, together with a reservoir, to be displaced towards the dispensing position at the time a user inhales. |
| US08640693B2 |
Gas mask with a drinking device
A gas mask with a connection piece (11) at a mask body has an adapter (12), which is rotatably received in the connection piece (11). The gas mask has an angle piece (13) outside the mask that connects to a drinking tube (7) for the consumption of food or beverage and has a mouthpiece within the mask to form a drinking device (2). A swivel joint connection is provided between the adapter (12) and angle piece (13) to accomplish the object. |
| US08640687B2 |
Enclosed snow melt system
An upright induction chamber (100) is positioned within a melting tank (24) of a snow melting apparatus (20). The melting tank is filled with melting water. Shredded snow from a hopper assembly (22) is introduced into the upper end of the induction chamber along with heated melting water, to be mixed by an impeller fan pump (110) that is operated to force the melting water at sufficient speed through the induction chamber to overcome the buoyancy of the snow, thereby facilitating uniform distribution of the snow across the induction chamber and good mixing of the snow with the melting water. A portion of the liquid composed of the melted snow and melting water from the induction chamber is expelled from the melting tank, and a portion of the liquid from the induction chamber passes through a heat exchanger (34) positioned within the heating tank to be heated thereby and then re-introduced into the upper portion of the induction chamber. |
| US08640686B2 |
Tile rebate cutting apparatus
A tile rebate cutting apparatus has a guide member, which may be formed by a spirit level, forming a linear guide for a rebate cutting tool, the rebate cutting tool incorporating at least one cutting device, the rebate cutting tool being adapted to engage with said guide member to move along a predetermined line determined by the position of the guide member to enable a cut for a rebate to be made in a ceiling tile. |
| US08640684B2 |
Pneumatic launcher for launching a projectile at a target and a suitable gunsight
Disclosed is a pneumatic launcher and a method for launching projectiles at a target with a distance-dependent launch-power. Also disclosed are a distance-provider and a dynamic gun-sight suitable for use with such a pneumatic launcher. |
| US08640680B2 |
Efficient vacuum for a vehicle
An engine with an efficient selectively operable vacuum source is disclosed. In one example, an electric vacuum pump with oil wetted seals provides vacuum to a vehicle vacuum reservoir while exhausting air to an interior region of the engine, such as the crankcase. The approach may provide for improved efficiency when generating vacuum. |
| US08640677B2 |
Electrostatic air charging system for an internal combustion engine
An electrostatic air charging system that includes a primary electro-forming exciter (PEFE) having a plurality of tubes that define chambers that receive electrically conductive elements to electrostatically charge the air within an air intake assembly. The system further includes an electric conduit that directs low voltage current to the electrically conductive elements. The charging system further also includes a secondary electro-forming exciter (SEFE) within a positive crankcase ventilation system and connected to a ground within a vehicle. The SEFE includes a secondary tube that defines a secondary chamber having a secondary electrically conductive element disposed therein to electrostatically charge the particles within a positive crankcase ventilation system to provide greater combustion efficiency. |
| US08640667B2 |
Fixing structures for intake manifolds
A mounting device can mount an intake manifold to an engine and includes a bending moment applying device applying a bending moment to the intake manifold as the intake manifold is mounted to the engine. |
| US08640663B2 |
Oil pressure control apparatus
An oil pressure control apparatus includes: a pump that ejects oil by being driven by rotation of an engine; a first flow passage interconnecting the pump and a first predetermined portion; a second flow passage branching from the first flow passage and supplying oil to a second predetermined portion; and a flow passage area adjusting portion that adjusts a flow passage area of the second flow passage according to oil pressure in the second flow passage. The flow passage area adjusting portion includes a spool formed such that a first pressure receiving face and a second pressure receiving face having an area smaller than that of the first pressure receiving face oppose each other with the second flow passage interposed therebetween, with the spool moving according to oil pressure in the second flow passage, and a biasing member biasing the spool in a direction toward the second pressure receiving face. |
| US08640659B2 |
Internal combustion engine
The invention relates to an engine (1) including: —a chamber (3) designed to accommodate a working fluid, —a first piston (4) defining the volume of said chamber (3), —a first passage (5) located in said first piston (4) to supply the chamber (3) with working fluid and/or to discharge from the chamber (3) the burned fluid resulting from the combustion of the working fluid, —a first valve (6) mounted on the first piston (4) to monitor the opening and closing of said first passage (5), —an output shaft (8) that engages with the first piston (4) to convert the motion of the first piston (4) into rotational motion of the output shaft (8), characterized in that the output shaft (8) and the first valve (6) engage to convert the motion of output shaft (8) into motion of the first valve (6). |
| US08640657B2 |
Oil supply system for an internal combustion engine
An oil supply system for an internal combustion engine includes an oil pump, a heat exchanger, an oil feed line and two oil outlet lines, for conveying the oil from the oil pump through the oil feed line to the heat exchanger and from the latter through the two oil outlet lines. In a system of this type, there is provision for the internal combustion engine to be configured as a piston engine and for the heat exchanger to be configured as a water/oil heat exchanger, and for one oil outlet line to be connected to oil spray nozzles of the piston engine and for the other oil outlet line to be connected to a main oil line of the piston engine. An oil supply system of this type is distinguished by its simple design and functionality, and permits optimum cooling and lubrication of the relevant components of the engine. |
| US08640644B2 |
Powder spray coating method and device therefor
A powder spraycoating method and powder spraycoating equipment. A dense phase powder pump is used. According to a predetermined conveying-air function in a control unit, different rates of compressed conveying air can be defined for different powder rates. In one predetermined total-air function in the control unit, the sum of total-air rate composed of the rate of compressed conveying air and of the rate of supplemental compressed air can be kept constant even if the rate of compressed conveying air changes. |
| US08640639B2 |
Method for cutting the lower and at least one upper thread and a method for lead-in stitching as well as a device for implementing the method
A method for cutting the lower and at least one upper thread for lead-in embroidering or lead-in sewing is performed with a device including thread catchers (19a-19c) connected with each other in a fixed manner and layered over top of each other, formed of sheet metal, as well as spring and thread tightening plates (31 and 41) arranged above and below the thread catchers, which move back and forth against a blade (29), and a thread wiper unit. The device is exclusively operated by a drive moving back and forth and driving the thread cutting and lead-in stitching unit (5). |
| US08640635B2 |
Corbel repairs of coke ovens
An improved corbel includes a first tier having first blocks and a second tier having second blocks. Each of the first blocks includes a first aperture extending through the block from a first surface to a back surface and a second aperture formed through a top surface of the block, extending into the first aperture. The first blocks are arranged on a substantially planar surface to align the respective first apertures to define a first passageway. Each of the second blocks includes a third aperture extending through the second block from a top surface to a bottom surface. The second blocks are disposed above the first tier to align the third aperture of each of the second blocks with the second aperture of the first blocks to form a second passageway. |
| US08640632B1 |
Utility pad with integrated security cage
A utility pad arrangement for mounting outdoor equipment such as air conditioner condensers thereon, having a flat, plate-like pad body with a plurality of recesses around its periphery. Mounting devices are provided and are shaped to nest within the recesses for optionally adding a security cage formed out of strap-like bars to securely surround the equipment located on the pad body in association with the mounting devices. |
| US08640631B2 |
Side contoured open top hopper railcar with biased door seal and enlarged contoured end door
A railroad open top hopper car comprises a pair of spaced trucks supporting a railcar body, the body comprising a pair of side structures railcar, wherein each including (i) a top chord extending the side structure length, (ii) a plurality of upper side stakes extending from the top chord, (iii) an intermediate side chord extending the side structure length and below the top chord and coupled to the upper side stakes, (iv) a plurality of lower side stakes extending from the intermediate side chord, and (v) a side sill extending the length and below the intermediate side chord and coupled to the lower side stakes. The body forms discharge chutes forming pockets for the body with a plurality of intermediate doors and end doors, wherein the end doors are larger than the intermediate doors. Each door may include a biased door seal. |
| US08640630B2 |
Torsion bar assembly and method, particularly for rail vehicle anti-roll bar
A heavy duty torsion bar assembly, particularly an anti-roll bar assembly for a rail vehicle, includes a lever which is mounted on the bar by an oil injection taper fit, the cooperating surfaces having a drainage groove and being formed to a tolerance of IT7 or better, wherein the final assembled position is determined by a pre-defined axial displacement of the lever from an initial position defined by manual engagement of the two parts. |
| US08640628B2 |
Linear permanent magnet driving system and permanent magnet driving and magnetic suspension roadway system
The invention relates to a linear permanent magnet driving system and a permanent magnet driving maglev train rail system, the linear permanent magnet driving system comprises spiral rotors and stators, wherein at least one of the spiral rotor and the stator adopts the structure having a permanent magnet while the other one adopts the structure having the permanent magnet or a magnetizer; when the spiral rotors are driven by an engine to rotate, linear motion of the spiral rotors is achieved by means of the magnetic force between both, and speed of the linear motion of the spiral rotors can reach supersonic speed at most. By applying the linear permanent magnet driving system to the permanent magnet driving maglev train rail system, the entire rail can avoid the use of both permanent magnet and driving coil, and the construction cost of maglev train rail is equivalent to that of the current high-speed wheel/rail. |
| US08640624B1 |
Low collateral damage air defense projectile
A kinetic energy penetrator with a longitudinal axis may include a forward segment having a lateral surface, a rear surface, and at least one air bleed channel extending from the lateral surface to the rear surface. A second segment may be disposed aft of and torsionally engaged with the forward segment. The second segment may include a front surface adjacent the rear surface of the forward segment. The forward and second segments may each be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis of the penetrator. When the penetrator is in flight, bleed air through the bleed channels may impinge on the front surface of the second segment. The second segment may separate from the front segment. Kinetic energies of each of the forward and second segments may be less than about 75 joules upon impact with a ground surface. |
| US08640623B2 |
Multiple purpose tandem nested projectile
A multiple-purpose projectile assembly includes an anti-personnel projectile, an armor-penetrating projectile, a propellant, a base bleed gas, and a primer. The anti-personnel projectile includes a cavity having a scored surface and is made out of a soft metal. The armor-penetrating projectile is made from a hard metal and is housed partially within the cavity of the anti-personnel projectile prior to firing from a weapon. The propellant and the primer are both housed within the cavity. The firing of the projectile assembly causes the armor-penetrating projectile to drive into the primer, thereby detonating the primer, causing the detonation of the propellant, thereby increasing the pressure of the cavity and causing the two projectiles to separate after the projectile assembly leaves the bore of the weapon. The burning of the propellant releases a base bleed gas that reduces the drag experienced by the anti-personnel projectile. |
| US08640622B2 |
Tandem nested projectile assembly
A projectile assembly 10 includes an individual projectile 20 and a composite projectile 30. The individual projectile 20 has a communicating portion 22. The composite projectile 30 includes at least one flechette 32. Prior to the projection of the projectile assembly 10, the composite projectile 30 is located adjacent to the communicating portion 22 of the individual projectile 20. The individual projectile 20 and the composite projectile 30 are structured and disposed for separating from one another after the initial projection of the projectile assembly 10. |
| US08640619B1 |
Use of polyamide thermal plastics as low cost electronics potting compounds for munitions applications
The present invention is directed to use of a polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound for potting electronic components (ex.—printed circuit boards) of an electronics assembly which is implemented in a munition. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound allows for a gun-hardened electronics assembly. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound also allows for reworkability. For example, during early testing phases of the electronics assembly, the potting material of the present disclosure may be removable (ex.—such as via a hot solvent bath) from the electronics assembly so that the electronics components may be: examined to determine the cause(s) for low yield during testing; and/or fixed, rather than having to rebuild the entire electronics assembly, thereby promoting lower costs of producing the electronics assembly. |
| US08640617B2 |
Multi-drive printed product processing device with verified feedback control
A multi-drive printed product processing device is provided that includes a processing component and a motor driving the processing component. A motor control controls the motor. An encoder measures a position of the motor and sends an encoder feedback signal indicating the position. The motor control receives the encoder feedback signal. An encoder feedback signal verification circuit verifies the integrity of the feedback signal. |
| US08640616B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
The present invention provides a printing apparatus and a printing method capable of washing a printing plate with a high degree of cleanliness. The present invention is a printing apparatus and a printing method, wherein: the printing apparatus comprises a print roll, a coater that is placed below the print roll and forms ink on the print roll, a first base placed above the print roll, a first stage placed on the bottom face of the first base, a first printing plate placed on the bottom face of the first stage, a print object to which the ink formed on the print roll is transcribed, a first stage placed on the top or bottom face of the print object, and a washer for washing the first printing plate; the washer has a washing device; and a spray nozzle of the washing device is directed to the side where the first base exists. |
| US08640609B2 |
Device for pasteurizing a mass of foodstuff
A device for pasteurizing a mass of foodstuff comprises: a feed; at least one first tube, connecting to the feed, of an electrically and magnetically inert material suitable for contact with food; two plate-like electrodes which are situated on either side of the first tube and which are connected to an RF power generator, whereby the mass present in the first tube is heated dielectrically in this first tube; a first jacket filled with a heatable first liquid and extending around the first tube; and heating means which connect to the first tube and in which the hot mass is held at practically constant temperature; at the end of which heating means the hot mass is discharged for further processing, such as cooling, portioning and packaging. |
| US08640608B2 |
Toaster with pivoting lateral door
A toaster with an housing containing at least one toasting chamber accessible from the top, the housing having a side wall that includes a door mounted to pivot about a horizontal axis relative to the rest of the housing, the axis being in a lower part of the housing, the toaster further including at least one bread carriage spaced from the axis so that in the open position of the door, a portion of bread on the carriage projects out of the housing. |
| US08640607B2 |
Bidirectional heating cooker
Provided is an improved bidirectional heating cooker having a cooking pan including a first pan portion whose one portion is cut out open in order to form an incision portion and a second pan portion that is placed at the incision portion of the first pan portion, in a manner that the cooking pan is not formed into a fitting method being fitted with a central supporting pillar through a center hole formed at the center of the cooking pan but formed into a seating method being seated on the upper portion of a lower heating unit, to thereby enable the cooking pan to be easily attached on or detached from the lower heating unit to thus be easily washed, and to thereby allow various types of cooking pans to be easily combined to thus enhance conveniences of use and to be easily replaced with new ones and to be easily combined with other types of cooking pans to thus enable the various types of cooking pans to be used in combination and to accordingly cook different kinds of foods simultaneously. |
| US08640604B2 |
Disposable capsule for drinks
A capsule (1) for the preparation of beverages within dispensing machines, has a sealing film (4) which is perforated at the time of the use when the pressurized infusion water is supplied to the capsule and deforms the film (4), bringing it into contact with underlying perforation means (6) fixed to the same capsule. |
| US08640603B2 |
Device for making tea
Method and device for automatic preparing of tea. A container is provided with a strainer bottom and a closable discharge line downstream of said bottom. In a first step, water is fed in until the strainer bottom is substantially covered with water. Tea leaves, which can absorb the water, are then added. After that, further water is added, and tea can be made. The discharge line is then opened and the ready beverage is discharged, possibly with further water being fed in. The remaining tea leaves are left behind on the surface of the strainer. The container is then split into a container sleeve and strainer bottom, and a brush is placed between them for the purpose of removing the leaves. |
| US08640602B2 |
Fluid pouring type actuator
An actuator is provided whose expansion in the radial direction can be efficiently translated into longitudinal movement when its length is contracted and extended by injecting a fluid into the tubular body. The fluid injection type actuator includes an actuator body, which is an expansion and contraction section of the actuator. The actuator body is constructed of a cylindrical rubber tube and annular fiber groups inserted and extending longitudinally therein. The annular fiber groups are each a group of fibers, such as glass roving fibers having a diameter of about 10 μm, arranged in an annular array along the circumference of the rubber tube. The arrangement allows the rubber tube to be restrained over the entirety of the actuator body longitudinally when it is expanded radially. |
| US08640600B2 |
Hydraulic cylinder cushion device with check ring
A hydraulic cylinder cushion device installed in a hydraulic cylinder provided, in which a rod performs reciprocating movement in a cylinder tube, and which discharges high-pressure hydraulic fluid that is formed in pressure chambers between a piston and a head cover and between the piston and a cover end during a stroke-end operation. The hydraulic cylinder cushion device includes a check ring which is installed in a groove provided on an inner surface of the head cover or the cover end, and moves to one side in the groove so as to close a flow path during rushing into a stroke end while it moves to the other side in the groove so as to open the flow path during an initial operation in the stroke end. |
| US08640596B1 |
Gas extraction system retrofit kit for gun weapon system
A retrofit kit for exhausting gases is provided for removing combustion products from a gun turret. In some embodiments, the combustion products are toxic gases that include ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, and carbon monoxide. The retrofit kit includes a fan and an EMI filter. The fan and the EMI filter are attached to the gun turret with one or more seals that provide both environmental and EMI/RFI protection. In operation, the fan is activated in response to the firing of the gun, and is powered using the power supply provided to the gun turret. In some embodiments, the fan operates for a predetermined time interval after the last operation of the gun. |
| US08640595B2 |
Blast-resistant vehicle hull
A vehicle hull has a longitudinal blast mitigation duct formed between left and right hull portions. The duct includes a first section oriented at a first angle to a longitudinal reference line, and a second section adjacent to the first section and oriented at a second angle to the reference line. The second angle is greater than the first angle to form a diverging surface for a shock wave travelling from the first to the second section. The blast mitigation duct further comprises a second, rearward-oriented diverging surface for a shock wave travelling rearward along the hull. A rib projects generally perpendicular from a joint between the first and second sections and is configured to initiate separation of the shock wave from the hull, thereby reducing the amount of energy transferred to the hull. |
| US08640594B2 |
Blast deflecting shield for ground vehicles and shielded ground vehicles and methods including same
A blast shield for deflecting a blast incident on a ground vehicle includes an impact section having an exterior impact surface to face a source of the blast. The exterior impact surface defines a cross-sectional profile defining a smooth continuous curve. |
| US08640592B1 |
Blast pressure diffuser
A blast diffuser for a structure may include a diffuser assembly. The diffuser assembly may include a plurality of vanes arranged in spaced relation to one anther. The vanes may be configured to redirect airflow of an overpressure wave from a first direction toward the diffuser assembly to a second direction generally parallel to the structure. The vanes may be offset from the structure by an offset distance forming a gap for the airflow between the vanes and the structure. |
| US08640589B2 |
Projectile modification method
A method of modifying a projectile includes removing material from an aft end of the projectile, and coupling a device to the aft end. The method may be used to convert a spin-stabilized projectile into a fin stabilized projectile, by modifying the aft end of a spin-stabilized projectile to accept a fin kit. The modifying may involve removing material with lathe, and may include forming external threads on the aft end that may engage corresponding internal threads on the device, to effect the coupling of the device to the aft end. The modification method allows versatility in employing projectiles, including existing stocks of projectiles. In particular the method allows spin-stabilized projectiles to be converted to more accurate fin-stabilized projectiles. |
| US08640580B2 |
Tool fastenable to a drive shaft of a hand-held power tool driveable in an oscillating manner
A tool is configured with a centering element and a fastening portion with form-locking elements for axial mounting and fastening onto a drive shaft of a hand-held power tool. The centering element and the form-locking elements are arranged in a first tool part. The form-locking elements are located radially outside the centering element and are configured with a quadrangular cross section that corresponds to a trapezoidal cross section, which is perpendicular to an axis of the drive shaft. |
| US08640579B2 |
Feeding apparatus and method
An apparatus (1) and a method for feeding a continuous tape (3) for forming labels (2) is disclosed, according to which a pair of rollers (5) advances the tape at an advancing speed that is calculated on the basis of the rotation speed of one cutting roller (6) that cuts the tape into labels, (2) at a signal that is indicative of the cut that occurred and at a positioning error of an actual image present on the tape with respect to a reference image. The real image is detected by a linear camera (9) or by a matrix camera. |
| US08640576B2 |
Production machine for non-circular work pieces
A production machine for non-circular workpieces provided with a tool feed unit (1) comprising a tool carrier (2) for receiving the tool and a compensation body (3) for impulse decoupling. The work movement of the tool carrier (2) can be effected by a drive (4) acting between the tool carrier (2) and the compensation body (3). The tool carrier (2) is supported by rolling bodies (5) and the compensation body (3) is suspended via elastically deformable guide elements (6) at a housing part (7) of the tool feed unit (1). A mass of the compensation body (3) is larger than a mass of the tool carrier (2) carrying the tool so that the working movements of the tool carrier (2) effect compensation strokes of the compensation body (3) that are only within the range of the elastic deformation of the guide elements (6). The guide elements (6) thus effect the guiding and resetting of the compensation body (3). |
| US08640568B2 |
Bicycle shift control device
A bicycle shift control device is provided with a shifter housing, a gear shifting mechanism, a shift operating member, and a shift switching arrangement. The gear shifting mechanism is disposed in the shifter housing with the gear shifting mechanism having a plurality of operating positions. The shift operating member is movable with respect to the shifter housing to operate the gear shifting mechanism. The shift switching arrangement includes a restricting member movably mounted with respect to the shifter housing between a non-shift restricting position and a shift restricting position. The gear shifting mechanism moves in a first set of the operating positions when the restricting member is in the non-shift restricting position, and moves in a second set of the operating positions that are different from the first set of the operating positions when the restricting member is in the shift restricting position. |
| US08640567B2 |
Steering column device
A female screw member 6 supported by a movable side bracket 31 includes: a movable side casing 61 provided with a nut container 67 through which a male screw shaft member 54 passes; and a pair of nuts 62 and 63 inserted into the nut container 67 non-rotatably but movably in an axial direction of the male screw shaft member 54 while threadedly engaging with the male screw shaft member 54. The movable side casing 61 includes a wedge member 64 whose tip end 64c is inserted between the nuts 62 and 63. The nuts 62 and 63 are separated from each other when the wedge number 64 is inserted therebetween, and outside surfaces 62c and 63c of female screw portions 62b and 63b of the nuts 62 and 63 come into contact with and get held by a male screw portion 54a of the male screw shaft member 54, thereby eliminating backlash between the female screw portions 62b and 63b and the male screw portion 54a. |
| US08640564B2 |
Circulation element for ball screw
This invention is revises the cap nut which the custom knows to suppose it to install trough's outline, will cause to install the dadoing to lead (lead angle to be small) lowly or on two above trundle ditch cap nut will not have the broken tooth's question, when will process should install the trough, only need use the face cutter then to process the forming, will reduce the production cost; And return circuit of this invention all establishes in the backflow part, therefore may promote and the cap nut supposes the backflow hole and the load way grade of fit, causes to roll the moving parts movement to be smoother, and reduces the noise production. |
| US08640560B2 |
System and method for interfacing sensors to a sterile flow stream
A system and method for interfacing non-sterile sensors to a sterile flow stream is disclosed. Typically, sensors cannot be sterilized in the same manner as other components of the flow stream. This results in complex processes to incorporate a sterilized sensor into a sterilized flow stream. By introducing a separation membrane, the desired sensor can be interfaced to the sterile flow stream. By doing so, the sensor need not be sterile, only sufficiently clean. The membrane separates the sterile environment within the flow stream from the sensor, while still permitting the sensor to function. |
| US08640558B2 |
System for the automated inspection of structures at height
A method of inspecting a structure comprises providing an inspection apparatus, engaging the inspection apparatus with an access system coupled to a structure, inspecting the access system using the inspection apparatus, and inspecting a portion of the structure using the inspection apparatus. |
| US08640557B2 |
Automatic analysis of finely divided solids
The present invention relates to a solids dosing device for finely divided solids, comprising sampling means for withdrawing a sample from a sampling jar and dosing means for inserting a prescribed amount of finely divided solid material into a testing jar, a dosing accuracy of at least 0.1 g being achieved with the solids dosing device and characteristics of the dosed amount substantially corresponding to those of the sample in the sampling jar. The invention also relates to an automated analyzer for determining properties of finely divided solids, comprising a depot for sampling jars and testing jars, analysis devices for the analysis of samples, manipulators for the movement and positioning of sampling jars, solids dosing devices and dosing devices for liquids. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for the automatic analysis of finely divided solids. |
| US08640556B2 |
Automated aseptic sampling workstation and sample collection devices therefore
An automated sample collection workstation is provided. The workstation includes a processor, a peristaltic pump, a valve actuator, and an algorithm. The peristaltic pump and the valve actuator are in electrical communication with the processor. The valve actuator can move a plurality of valves, when disposed therein, among an off position, a flush position, and a sample position. The algorithm is resident on the processor and is configured to: move all of the valves to the off position and place the pump in an off state when no sampling or flushing is required, move all of the valves to the flush position and place the pump in an on state for a predetermined flush time period when flushing is required, and move a respective one of the valves to the sample position, move any of the valves upstream of the respective valve to the flush position, and place the pump to the on state for a predetermined sample time period when a sample is required. |
| US08640554B2 |
Method and apparatus for bearing thrust monitoring
A method and apparatus for bearing thrust monitoring allows measurable detection of tilt of a support bearing a roller which rotatably supports a rotating body. A tilt meter adapted to measurably detect a tilt of the support bearing is coupled to the support bearing, where the tilt is defined as an angular difference in bearing orientation between a first bearing position and a second subsequent bearing position that is cause by an axial thrust on the rotary body. Once tilt is detected, the bearing orientation of the support bearing can be adjusted to return the support bearing to substantially the first bearing position. |
| US08640549B2 |
Strain gage and manufacturing method thereof
A strain gage includes a strain sensitive element; and a temperature compensation element, wherein the strain sensitive element and temperature compensation element are monolithically formed. A method of manufacturing the strain gage includes: exposing and developing a strain sensitive element pattern and the temperature compensation element pattern; and etching the strain sensitive element pattern and the temperature compensation element pattern. |
| US08640543B2 |
Micro-electro-mechanical system device, out-of-plane sensor and method for making micro-electro-mechanical system device
The present invention discloses a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device, comprising: a mass including a main body and two capacitor plates located at the two sides of the main body and connected with the main body, the two capacitor plates being at different elevation levels; an upper electrode located above one of the two capacitor plates, forming one capacitor therewith; and a lower electrode located below the other of the two capacitor plates, forming another capacitor therewith, wherein the upper and lower electrodes are misaligned with each other in a horizontal direction. |
| US08640533B2 |
Vehicle brake testing device and a method of testing a vehicle brake
A device (1) for testing pneumatically operated brakes of a first vehicle (22) and of a second vehicle (23) being connected and having interconnected brake systems. A device supply line (3b) and a device control line (4b) are arranged for connection to respective corresponding supply and control lines (3a, 3c, 4a, 4c) in the vehicles such that the device (1) is fluidly connected into and between the brake system of the first vehicle (22) and the brake system of the second vehicle (23). A method of activating the brakes (5) of a trailer unit (23) which is connected to a tractor unit (22), without activating the brakes of the tractor unit (22), provides braking action by employing the device (1), and includes remotely activating the first valve means (9) in order to provide braking action. |
| US08640532B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting abnormal air-fuel ratio variation between cylinders
An apparatus and method for detecting an abnormal air-fuel ratio variation between cylinders of a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine in which the output of an air-fuel ratio sensor is acquired at each sampling interval, a parameter correlated with the degree of fluctuation of the sensor output is calculated from a plurality of the acquired sensor outputs, and the presence or absence of the abnormal air-fuel ratio variation between cylinders is determined by comparing the parameter with a determination value. A cylinder air amount is estimated at each sampling interval. Every time the air-fuel ratio sensor output is acquired, the value of the cylinder air amount at the point earlier, by a transport delay time, than the point of the acquisition is determined based on the time-series data, and a corresponding determination value corresponding thereto is calculated. The determination value is determined based on a plurality of the calculated corresponding determination values. |
| US08640525B2 |
Methods and systems for differentiating soybeans
Methods and systems for analyzing soybeans and, more particularly, for analyzing soybeans at the point of delivery such as a grain elevator or processing plant for a characteristic of the soybeans such as the β-conglycinin protein content or the intensity of flavor of the soybeans. |
| US08640524B2 |
Crash test apparatus
A crash test apparatus for truck cabs includes a fixture frame mounting a cab, a cart mounting the fixture frame, a protruding barrier disposed in front of the cab, and a crash device moving the cart to make the cab crash against the protruding barrier. The crash test apparatus includes a frame deformation amount reproduction mechanism disposed between a front of the cart and the protruding barrier, and when the crash device operates, deforming by a deformation amount of a frame of a vehicle on which the cab is mounted, to make the cab crash against the protruding barrier. |
| US08640522B2 |
Systems and methods for remote testing of a flow switch
Systems and methods for the remote testing of a paddle-type flow detector, such as are common in fire protection systems. Specifically, the systems and methods provide for mechanical movement of the vane to test activation of the flow detector under a flow condition, and which measure the amount of time the vane takes to return to the ready position to verify the presence of a paddle on the vane. |
| US08640520B2 |
Bending device
The present invention relates to a bending device of which a beam is inserted between laminated moldings formed by slidably layering a plurality of molding plates, and the bending device of which deformation of the laminated moldings may simultaneously realize bending of up and down directions and side directions of a curved portion of a beam, and thus the bending device may realize a 3-dimensional bending process at once. |
| US08640518B1 |
Burring apparatus with scrap removing capability
A burring apparatus is provided, including a burring die having a top surface for a workpiece to be placed on, the burring die configured to be cylindrically symmetric with a burring hole formed concentrically therein to provide an inner surface, a burring punch having a tip end portion for punching the workpiece to cut off a metal piece and a tip portion for pressing a remaining portion of the workpiece warped in the burring hole to form a boss, and a scrap removing unit attached to the inner surface of the burring die, wherein the burring punch, the burring die and the scrap removing unit are configured to trap, push out and let fall by scraping off the metal piece as the burring punch is lowered into the burring hole and lifted. |
| US08640516B2 |
Rolling mill stand and related rolling mill for longitudinally rolling rod-shaped bodies
A rolling mill stand and related rolling mill for rolling rod-shaped bodies, even large in size, which meets the requirement of stiffness uniformity of the rolling mill stands in the transversal direction, all the hydraulic capsules being firmly fixed to the external structure of the rolling mill and providing for the side change of the rolls of each stand. The arrangement of rolling rolls and related extensions of each rolling mill stand is such to avoid problems of corrosion and damaging to the extensions themselves and to the reducers due to the drainage of the cooling waters. |
| US08640512B2 |
Lock structure for electronic device
A lock structure for an electrical device includes a rotatable fastener and a lock body. The rotatable fastener has an extending portion and a retaining portion, wherein the extending portion and the retaining portion form a T-shaped structure; the lock body is connected to the rotatable fastener and has a key hole. The lock body further has a first position and a second position in a radial direction of the extending portion. The key inserted in the key hole operates the lock body to displace from the second position to the first position, wherein the lock body drives the rotatable fastener to rotate to an unlocked position. When the lock body is in the first position, the lock body is pressed to displace from the first position to the second position, wherein the lock body drives the rotatable fastener to rotate to a locked position. |
| US08640511B1 |
Low profile lock interface system and method
A system for securing an item to an anchor is disclosed. The system may include a first extension extending from an item, an interface mechanism connected to the first extension, and a lock. The interface mechanism may include a cylindrical base, a sleeve, and a second extension. The cylindrical base may comprise an extension aperture receiving the first extension therewithin. The slide may surround at least a portion of the cylindrical base and occupy a blocking position locking the first extension within the extension aperture. The second extension may extend from the slide and comprise a traveler occupying a locking position locking the slide in the blocking position. The lock may engage the second extension and lock the traveler in the locking position. |
| US08640508B2 |
Apparatus for releasing magnetic security device
Apparatus for releasing a magnetic security device used to inhibit unauthorised access to and/or unauthorised removal of an article. The apparatus has a first portion (1) for locating an article in a first direction (D1) and a second portion (2) for locating an article in a second direction (D2) perpendicular to the first direction (D1), so providing an L-shaped slot or receptacle capable of receiving articles of a wide range of shapes and sizes having a security device installed adjacent two substantially perpendicular sides thereof. The first and/or second portions include magnetic release means for releasing a lock securing the security device to the article and arranged to assist in locating the article in a third direction (M) perpendicular to the first and second directions (D1, D2) by magnetic attraction of the security device as the article is brought into contact with the first and second portions to align the magnetic security device with the magnetic release means. |
| US08640507B1 |
Horizontal shackle for lock system and method
A padlock having a horizontal shackle is disclosed. The padlock may include a base comprising a latching mechanism, a first shackle aperture, and a second shackle aperture. The padlock may also include a shackle. The shackle may comprise a first post extending from within the first shackle aperture, a second post extending from within the second shackle aperture, and a horizontal cross member extending in a line from the first post to the second post. |
| US08640502B2 |
Apparatus for and method of processing glass optical fiber, method of manufacturing and method of drawing optical fiber
A method of processing an optical fiber includes introducing fiber that has passed a pulling mechanism to a shredding unit with an introducing unit. The introducing unit includes a movable unit including a notch configured to fit with a capstan roller included in the pulling mechanism, a sliding mechanism that attaches the movable unit slidably with respect to a main body of the introducing unit, and a restoring mechanism configured to restore the movable unit to an initial position when the movable unit has slid. The method includes shredding the fiber introduced by the introducing unit into fiber pieces, and suctioning, carrying, and collecting the fiber pieces. A method of drawing an optical fiber includes drawing the fiber while controlling a drawing speed, adjusting a diameter of the fiber to a diameter passable through a die, and arranging the die around the fiber having the diameter passable through the die. |
| US08640499B2 |
Reducing crown corrosion in a glassmelting furnace
Corrosion of the inner surface of the crown of a glassmelting furnace is reduced or avoided by directing at low velocity along that surface a gaseous stream comprising water vapor, or comprising the combustion products of an oxy-fuel burner operated at a stoichiometric ratio of at least 1.0, or the combustion products of a burner operated at a stoichiometric ratio less than 1.0, or by injecting into the furnace interior a gaseous reactant which reacts with alkali species in said space. |
| US08640495B2 |
Separation of carbon monoxide from gaseous mixtures containing carbon monoxide
A process and apparatus for producing a carbon monoxide-containing product from a feed containing hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, nitrogen and optionally argon. The carbon monoxide-containing product is produced using a hydrogen stripping column for forming a hydrogen-enriched vapor and a hydrogen-freed liquid, a nitrogen separation fractionator for forming a nitrogen-enriched vapor and a nitrogen-depleted liquid containing carbon monoxide and methane from the hydrogen-freed liquid, and a carbon monoxide/methane separation fractionator for forming the carbon monoxide containing product and a methane-enriched liquid from the nitrogen-depleted liquid. At least part of the nitrogen separation fractionator condenser duty provides the feed vaporization duty and reboiler duty for the carbon monoxide/methane separation fractionator, thereby reducing the energy requirement for the separation. |
| US08640494B2 |
Method to produce natural gas liquids NGLs at gas Pressure Reduction Stations
A method to recover NGL's at gas Pressure Reducing Stations. A first step involve providing at least one heat exchanger having a flow path for passage of high pressure natural gas with a counter current depressurized lean cold gas. A second step involves passing the high pressure natural gas stream in a counter current flow with the lean cold gas and cooling it before de-pressurization. A third step involves the expansion of the high pressure cooled gas in a gas expander. The expansion of the gas generates shaft work which is converted into electrical power by the power generator and the expanded low pressure and cold gas enters a separator where NGL's are recovered. This process results in the recovery NGL's, electricity and the displacement of a slipstream of natural that is presently used to pre-heat gas at Pressure Reduction Stations. |
| US08640491B2 |
De-gassing lubrication reclamation system
A vapor compression system (10), also known as a chiller, includes a refrigeration loop and a lubrication loop. The lubrication loop includes a lubrication reclamation system that further includes a still (42) and an ejector (44) to reduce a pressure in the still (42). The ejector (44) includes an input portion (46), an output portion 54 and a vent portion (50). The input portion (46), the output portion (54) and the vent portion (50) are in fluid communication with one another. The vent portion (50) of the ejector (44) is positioned in a vent line (48) associated with the still (42). The still (42) primarily contains a mixture of liquid refrigerant and lubricant. The input portion (46) of the ejector receives liquid or gas at a high pressure and expels the liquid or gas through the output portion (54) at an intermediate pressure. As the input fluid at a high pressure flows through the ejector (44), a low pressure is created at the vent portion (50). The reduction in pressure in the vent portion (50) causes a suction pressure within the vent portion (50) associated with the still (44), resulting in a portion of the liquid refrigerant vaporizing, leaving a higher viscosity lubricant. |
| US08640485B2 |
Refrigerator with a dispenser
A refrigerator dispenser includes an ice dispensing actuator, an ice dispensing chute, an ice dispensing housing positioned within a refrigerator door cavity and configured to define an ice dispensing cavity through which ice dispensed by the ice dispensing chute passes, a liquid dispensing chute positioned closer to a front surface of a refrigerator door than the ice dispensing housing, and a liquid dispensing actuator positioned on the ice dispensing housing and configured to receive input to inspire dispensing of liquid through the liquid dispensing chute. |
| US08640480B2 |
Room air conditioner and/or heat pump
A room air conditioner and/or heat pump is shown with a main control and a user interface. The user interface is mounted on a user interface mount attached to the front of a main unit, but behind the bezel. The user interface mount is used to (a) insert or remove the main unit, (b) secure and protect wiring cables, (c) mount the user interface thereon, (d) direct a filter into position, (e) provide a slot for a fresh air slide, and (f) direct a bezel into position. A main control housing allows access there through to a main control circuit board, but prevents moisture from dripping on the main control circuit board. A dual filter element is located behind a double hinged door. Channels and flanges direct and secure the bezel into position. |
| US08640479B2 |
Cooling system for a room containing electronic data processing equipment
A cooling system for a room containing electronic data processing equipment includes a raised floor construction dividing the room into a plenum space underneath the raised floor and a usable space above the raised floor, an air conditioning device for feeding cooled air to the plenum space and a cooling module. The cooling module is arranged as a floor element of the raised floor and includes a fan for providing a flow of cooled air from the plenum space to the usable space, the cooling module being configured such that the flow direction of the flow is controllable. The system further includes a control device connected to the cooling module for automatically controlling the flow direction of the flow. According to an important aspect of the invention, the cooling module includes at least one adjustable deflector unit arranged downstream of the fan for deviating the flow of cooled air provided by the fan, the deflector unit being connected to the control device for automatic adjustment of the deflector unit. A corresponding cooling module is also proposed. |
| US08640473B2 |
Refrigeration apparatus and method for controlling the same
A refrigeration apparatus includes a condensing unit, a flow distributor, and an evaporator connected to the condensing unit via the flow distributor. A pressure detector is configured to detect condensation pressure of the refrigerant. A calculation unit is configured to calculate a target condensation pressure of refrigerant necessary for the refrigerant to be an evaporation temperature in the evaporator. A controller is configured to control the condensing unit so that the condensation pressure of the refrigerant becomes equal to or more than the target condensation pressure. |
| US08640467B2 |
Acoustic power transmitting unit for thermoacoustic systems
An acoustic power transmitting unit for thermoacoustic systems includes at least one stage provided with at least two thermoacoustic units each of which includes a regenerator or a stack and two heat exchangers, an acoustic resonator including a tube and containing a fluid and in which a magnetic field having high impedance and low-impedance areas is arranged, wherein certain thermoacoustic units are placed in high dimensionless impedance areas. Each high dimensionless impedance area also includes a thermoacoustic unit, wherein two successive thermoacoustic units are always separated by low dimensionless impedance. The resonator includes a reduced diameter section between each couple of successive thermoacoustic units and each cross-sectional narrowing is associated with at least one by-pass which includes a deviation cavity and makes it possible to deviate the major part of a volume flow rate. |
| US08640464B2 |
Combustion system
Fuel and air are injected in a first poloidal flow in a first poloidal direction within a first annular zone of an annular combustor. A first combustion gas from the at least partial combustion of the fuel and air is discharged into an annular transition zone of the annular combustor and transformed to a second combustion gas therein within an at least partial second poloidal flow followed by an at least partial third poloidal flow in the annular transition zone, wherein the direction of the second poloidal flow is opposite to that of the first and third poloidal flows. The second combustion gas is discharged into a second annular zone of the annular combustor, and then transformed to a third combustion gas therein before being discharged therefrom, responsive to which a back pressure is generated in the annular combustor. |
| US08640462B2 |
Deep sea geothermal energy system
A geothermal energy system utilizes geothermal heat under the floor of a body of water. The system includes at least one well having a top and a bottom. At least one well is drilled to a sufficient depth to access geothermal heat from one or more areas under the floor. The system further includes at least one energy converter operatively coupled to the well. The at least one energy converter is configured to convert the geothermal heat to another form of energy. |
| US08640450B2 |
Compressed fluid motor
A compressed fluid motor has a plurality of cylinders with a piston and a piston rod. A main bearing is concentric with a crankpin and coupled to a shaft. Compressed fluid on the piston pushes on the main bearing via its corresponding piston rod. Bearing guide plates hold the one or more piston rod in place on the main bearing. A timing and control mechanism controls flow of compressible fluid to press on the piston and turn the shaft to perform work. |
| US08640449B2 |
Hydrodynamic torque converter having a vibration absorber and torsional vibration damper
A hydrodynamic torque converter having a pump wheel accommodated in a housing, a turbine wheel, which can be driven by the pump wheel, and a torsional vibration damper, where the torsional vibration damper has a damper input drive component and a damper output drive component, which can rotate to a limited degree with respect to the damper input drive component to oppose the action of at least two damper stages which are operatively connected in series and which each have at least one energy storage element, where the torsional vibration damper also has an intermediate damper component, which is arranged operatively between the damper stages and which directly or indirectly accommodates a vibration absorber, where the energy storage elements of the damper stages are substantially arranged on a common radius, where the vibration absorber is arranged adjacent to the torsional vibration damper in the axial dimension. |
| US08640447B2 |
Exhaust emission control device for internal combustion engine
An exhaust emission control device includes a catalytic converter arranged in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine. The catalytic converter includes an upstream catalytic converter and a downstream catalytic converter arranged on a downstream side of the upstream catalytic converter. The upstream catalytic converter includes a first support and a first catalyst supported on the first support. The first catalyst includes a first lower layer catalyst and a first upper layer catalyst. Pd in the first lower layer catalyst is supported only on the oxygen storage component contained in the first catalyst. The first upper layer catalyst is provided on the first lower layer catalyst, Pd in the first upper layer catalyst being supported on each of the oxygen storage component and Al2O3 contained in the first catalyst. |
| US08640444B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
Inside an engine exhaust passage, in order from the upstream side, a hydrocarbon feed valve, oxidation catalyst, and exhaust purification catalyst are arranged. A first NOx purification method which lowers the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas flowing into the exhaust purification catalyst by a predetermined period while maintaining it lean so as to remove NOx without causing NOx to be stored in the form of nitrates and a second NOx purification method which switches the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas flowing into the exhaust purification catalyst from lean to rich by a period longer than the above period so as to remove NOx are selectively used in accordance with an operating state of the engine. |
| US08640441B2 |
Method of monitoring a differential pressure sensor of an exhaust gas treatment system
A method of monitoring a differential pressure sensor of an exhaust gas aftertreatment system includes sensing a learned value (n−1, n, n+1, n+2, etc.) of the differential pressure sensor for each after-run occurrence of the vehicle, and calculating an absolute value of a rate of change between a current (n) learned value of the differential pressure sensor and a previous (n−1) learned value of the differential pressure sensor. The absolute value of the rate of change is compared to a threshold pressure value to determine if the absolute value of the rate of change is greater than the threshold pressure value or is less than the threshold pressure value. A fault in the differential pressure sensor is signaled when the absolute value of the rate of change of the learned values is greater than the threshold pressure value. |
| US08640433B2 |
Packaging apparatus including rotary jaw device and method of making packages
A packaging apparatus including a rotary jaw device, the rotary jaw device comprising an elongate holder, an elongate knife mounted on and projecting outwardly from the elongate holder, the knife having an elongate cutting edge parallel to a plane of the knife, and at least one part of a heat seal device located on the elongate holder on opposed sides of the knife. A packaging method is also disclosed. |
| US08640431B2 |
Medicine packaging machine
In a medicine packaging machine including a medicine accommodating mechanism for accommodating plural medicines, a chute for guiding medicines arbitrarily taken out from the medicine accommodating mechanism to a medicine packaging sheet, and a medicine packaging mechanism having a heater for thermally welding the medicine packaging sheet, the heater is provided with an incision tooth for forming an incision at an edge portion of the medicine packaging sheet at the same time when the medicine packaging sheet filled with the medicines. Furthermore, a cutting mechanism for cutting at a predetermined position a separate package bag formed by thermally welding the medicine packaging sheet is provided. |
| US08640430B2 |
Method and assembly for the controlled change of the gas content inside a package
Method and assembly for evacuating a package (2), such as a vacuum package filled with a product such as nuts. The package is at least partially made of packaging film (6). The method employs a suction device (4) provided with a suction opening, for evacuating the package through an aperture (12) in the packaging film. The package is provided with a substantially plate-shaped, rigid element (8), one main surface of which substantially lying in contact “with the inner side of the packaging film, wherein the aperture in the packaging film is provided at the location of the substantially rigid element. The method further includes the sealing abutment of the suction opening against an outer side of the package, at a location where the substantially rigid element lies in contact with the inner side of the packaging film, in such a way that the aperture is in fluid connection with the suction opening. |
| US08640428B2 |
Strength enhancing insert assemblies
Insert assemblies of high specific strengths to reduce stress concentration at locations where Multidirectional stresses act on sandwich structures have been designed based on mapping stress distribution and failure initiation. The insert assembly comprises of insert (10, 20, 30), potting material (14, 24, 34), core (17, 27, 37), lower face plate (16, 26, 36), Upper face-plate (15, 25, 35) and attachment (13, 23, 33). The insert materials are selected from 2D woven composites, 3D thermoelastic isotropic woven composites, 3D woven composites, 3D woven composites with multiple inserts and 3D functionally gradient woven composites. Specific strengths of inserts (10, 20, 30) of present invention are higher than the inserts of prior art. |
| US08640427B2 |
Sound insulating door
A door includes a first panel having a plurality of stiffeners thereon; a second panel facing the first panel, the second panel having a plurality of stiffeners thereon facing the stiffeners on the first panel; a first baffle between the first panel and the second panel, the first baffle having a plurality of openings of a first size; and a second baffle adjacent to the first baffle and between the first panel and the second panel, the second baffle having a plurality of openings of a second size different than the first size. |
| US08640423B2 |
Apparatus and method for mounting a renewable energy panel on a roof
An apparatus for retaining a photovoltaic panel on a rooftop includes a vessel having a first side, second side, front, bottom, and top panels, wherein the panels are attached to define a void within the vessel. A fill port is disposed on the vessel. A first hole is adapted to receive a screw on the top panel, wherein the first hole is aligned with a second hole disposed on the bottom panel, wherein the first and second holes are adapted to be aligned with a third hole on a first mounting cross arm. The top panel is inclined at an angle relative to the bottom panel. |
| US08640420B1 |
Pergola system
A pergola system includes a frame having a plurality of generally vertically-oriented, spaced-apart posts aligned in rows. A generally horizontally-oriented, spaced-apart frame member is attached to each row of posts. A plurality of rails and outer rails extend across the frame members and are oriented generally orthogonally to the frame members, the rails being attached to the frame members. A plurality of purlins extend across the rails outer rails, and are oriented generally orthogonally to the rails and outer rails, the purlins being attached to the rails and outer rails. The pergola system is freestanding. |
| US08640419B2 |
Method of constructing prefabricated steel reinforced concrete (PSRC) column using angle steels and PSRC column using angle steels
A steel reinforced concrete (PSRC) column is prefabricated with angle steels at the corners. The column has auxiliary reinforcement bars between the angle steels and tie bars surround the angle steels and auxiliary reinforcement bars. Column capital steel plates are fixed to the structure, outside the angle steels and the auxiliary reinforcement bars. Column capital reinforcing steel plates are diagonally attached inside the PSRC column. A mold is used to fill the column with cement. |
| US08640418B2 |
Surface covering system
A surface covering system for covering surfaces with a covering material, particularly for covering wall surfaces or floor surfaces with tile material. The surface covering system includes at least two covering modules, which can be placed on the surface so as to adjoin each other. A first covering module has at least one first sealing profile, and a second covering profile has at least one second sealing profile. The sealing profiles are designed to engage each other in a positioned state of the covering modules and form a common seal. |
| US08640416B2 |
Sliding and locking energy-efficient wall assembly
A sliding and locking energy-efficient wall assembly includes a plurality of: parallel spaced apart foam posts, foam panels, framing/spacing members, and finishing wall panels. The foam posts are vertically disposed on a foundation wall, and have ends dimensioned to contact and adhere to the surface of the wall, an inside end opposite the planar end, and two opposing side flanged ends. Grooves on the foam panels are dimensioned to receive the side flanged ends of the foam posts. The framing/spacing members have a web and flange portions, to engage the inside grooved ends of the foam posts to provide an interior attachment surface for the finishing wall panels. The finishing wall panels are secured to the web portions of the framing/spacing members, whereby an air space is created between the foam panels and the finishing wall panels. The framing/spacing members and foam posts are adjustable to permit plumb installation. |
| US08640410B2 |
Load bearing wall system
A load bearing wall system which is made from a plurality of interlocking panels. Each panel includes a hollow panel body having a first end, a second end, and an interior cavity. A male coupling is positioned at the first end and a female coupling is positioned at the second end. The female coupling is capable of interlocking with the male coupling of another of the plurality of interlocking panels. The male coupling houses a structural stud that extends for the entire vertical height of the hollow panel body. The interior cavity of the hollow panel body is filled with insulation. Interlocking panels intended for straight sections have the female coupling opposed to the male coupling in a linear alignment. Interlocking panels intended for a corner or change in direction have the hollow panel body bent so that the female coupling is angularly offset from the male coupling. |
| US08640409B2 |
Secureable concrete storage facility
A pre-stressed concrete storage apparatus includes a plurality of panels secured together to form a hollow interior space for storing items. An outer door panel is selectively movable for restricting access to the interior of the apparatus. A secondary metal door and cage assembly is located behind the primary outer door panel for further restricting access to the interior of the storage apparatus. A pulley system is provided for mechanically lifting and lowering the outer door panel. |
| US08640402B1 |
Building roof fascia, coping and/or solar panel connector arrangement
A building roof fascia and coping connector arrangement includes a cleat having a planar wall, a spacer extending inwardly from the planar wall for spacing the planar wall away from a building side when the cleat is secured thereto and having an opening permitting air flow therethrough and between the planar wall and the building, an upper securement assembly at an upper end of the planar wall, and a lower securement assembly at a lower end of the planar wall, with coping secured across an outer surface of the planar wall and connected with the upper and lower securement assemblies; and a vertical load bearing member seating on the building roof when the cleat is secured to the building side, while being connected with an upper end of the cleat to transfer a load from the cleat and the coping to the building roof. |
| US08640396B1 |
Wind resistant modular ISO building
A wind resistant modular ISO building includes a first cargo container, a second cargo container, and a mounting system. The first and second cargo containers are joined to each other by attaching adjacent lengthwise frame rails. Most of an inner lengthwise side wall of the first and second cargo containers is removed. The first and second cargo containers are also joined to each other by attaching a plurality of vertical channels of upper portions of the lengthwise side walls. A plurality of horizontal channels are attached to the plurality of vertical channels. At least two moment frames are attached to an inside of the first and second cargo containers. The end door of the first and second cargo containers are replaced with an end panel. Preferably, at least one door entrance and window system is formed in at least one of the lengthwise side walls. |
| US08640393B2 |
Deformable slat system
A deformable slat system for a building construction has one or more deformable slats(1). At least one of the aforementioned slats (1) has two slat parts (Ia, Ib) which are joined together in such a way that they are hingeable about a hinge line (2). This slat (1) is bendable and/or twistable in each first position where the slat parts (Ia, Ib) are hinged at a straight angle or a zero angle with respect to one another and is rigidified in each second position where the slat parts (Ia, Ib) are hinged at an angle differing from the straight angle or zero angle with respect to one another. The slat system includes means (13a, 13b, 19a, 19b, 14, 15, 16) for bringing the aforementioned slat (1) selectively into a first or a second position, and for bringing a slat (1), which has been brought into a first position, into a bent and/or twisted position. Furthermore, a slat (1) is provided for a slat system of this type, and also a building construction is provided with a slat system of this type. |
| US08640388B2 |
Rostrum and support structure
A support structure for a rostrum includes a first A-frame; and at least a second A-frame, nestable and retractable into the first A-frame. The support structure may have an open central area and the second A-frame may be substantially the same as, but smaller than, the open central area of the first A-frame. At least one support means is connected to each A-frame for supporting a load, wherein the support is connected to an upper portion of one A-frame. The support extends from the upper portion of the one A-frame and is co-operable with an upper portion of another A-frame. The support structure may be telescopic and configured to be expandable and retractable between a retracted, stored position, and an extended, in use position. |
| US08640385B2 |
Trim attachment structure
A trim attachment structure includes a door frame, trim and a clip. The door frame has an attachment part, which is formed by a single plate, and a fitting hole. The fitting hole has a square shape in which the diagonals thereof are aligned with specific directions. The trim has a pair of ribs respectively facing a pair of end parts of the fitting hole. The clip is installed in the fitting hole. The clip includes a head part, a tube part and a latching hook. The tube part has a tip end part which projects from the fitting hole to the outer side of the attachment part. Angled parts of the tip end part are held between the ribs. The latching hook is latched at the peripheral edge of the fitting hole on the outer side of the attachment part. |
| US08640377B2 |
Fishing rod and beverage holder
A combined fishing rod and beverage holder for insertion into and removal from an opening in a marine vessel is disclosed. The combined fishing rod and beverage holder includes a substantially tubular hollow cylindrical member which is formed with an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion has a diameter which is larger than the diameter of the lower portion. The diameter of the upper portion enables a beverage container with or without an insulating jacket to be placed within and retained within the upper portion of the combined rod and beverage holder. The upper portion includes an outwardly projecting flange which includes apertures through which fasteners can be placed to secure the combined rod and beverage holder to a surface, such as a gunwale of a marine vessel. Other types or secure devices can also be employed to secure the combined rod and beverage holder to any surface. |
| US08640374B1 |
Firearm cartridge magazine system
Several examples of a cartridge magazine system are shown each arranged to hold a plurality of cartridge magazines adjacent to a magazine well of a weapon. The system including several interoperating components, for example: a rigid cylindrical shaft having a center axis aligned with an insert axis of the magazine well, a cartridge magazine holder assembly, and a stop cap at a lower end of the shaft to maintain position of the cartridge magazine holder assembly upon the shaft. One example of the magazine holder assembly including: a collar in contact with the shaft so as to freely reposition along the shaft wherein the collar is rotatable about the shaft. At least one fork extends radially from the collar. Wherein each fork includes a surface for retention of a cartridge magazine in position to be inserted into and removed from the magazine well without removing the magazine from the fork. |
| US08640367B2 |
Digital Price indicator
A digital price indicator is provided. In the digital price indicator, a display body is disposed on a front side of a fence installed on a shelf, a battery is disposed on a back side of the fence and supplies power to the display body, and a connection unit is installed at the display body and the battery to connect power between the display body and the battery and secure the display body and the battery to the fence. Accordingly, the display body can have a slim profile, an improvement in design and ease of battery change can be achieved, and battery capacity can be extended. |
| US08640366B1 |
Military award attachment method and device
A method for attaching a military award to a uniform comprises connecting a suspension member attached to the military award to the uniform beneath a collar flap of the uniform, so that the military award hangs from the collar in a position that coincides with its conventional semi-permanent attachment position in which the award is laterally offset on a chest area of the uniform. Temporary connection of the suspension member to the collar flap comprises cooperating hook-and-loop connectors mounted respectively to an underside of the collar flap and the suspension member. |
| US08640360B2 |
Integrated water damage restoration system, sensors therefor, and method of using same
An overall restoration system useful in removing moisture from structures is provided. The contemplated system includes a power and control device, a series of sensors, and a number of various different drying equipment, all capable of communication with a remote server. The system is highly portable, flexible and cost-efficient to manufacture and operate. |
| US08640359B2 |
Substrate treating apparatus and substrate treating method
A substrate treating apparatus for drying substrates with a solvent vapor after treating the substrates with a treating liquid, includes a solvent vapor supply device for supplying the solvent vapor into a treating chamber, an exhaust device for exhausting gas from the chamber through an exhaust pipe, a drain pipe connected to the chamber for draining the treating liquid from the chamber, a gas-liquid separator at the other end of the exhaust pipe for receiving the gas from the exhaust device, and connected to the other end of the drain pipe for receiving the treating liquid from the drain pipe, the gas-liquid separator separating the gas and the liquid, and a mixer mounted on the exhaust pipe for mixing deionized water into the gas exhausted by the exhaust device. |
| US08640356B2 |
Tape measure end piece
The present invention is an attachment to the end of a measuring tape. The attachment is made from one piece of material wherein all the components are continuously connected. The tape measure end piece has a rounded bottom, a straight tongue, and a pair of front round tabs. The straight tongue allows the present invention to be attached to the blade of a measuring tape via a plurality of rivet holes to the rivets situated on the blade of the measuring tape. The plurality of rivet holes allows the position of the end piece to be adjustable along the end of the tape measure. The rounded bottom of the present invention allows the present invention and the end of the measure tape to travel over uneven surfaces at a distance. The pair of front round tabs allows the present invention to be hooked onto objects at a distance during measurement. |
| US08640353B2 |
Ride height gauge for RC cars
A ride height gauge includes a chassis engaging member biased relative to a base member via springs. Lowering an RC car chassis onto the chassis engaging member causes the chassis engaging member to lower until the car's wheels touch a support surface on either side of the base member. The chassis engaging member's lowered position is displayed on measurement columns that measure the height of the chassis engaging member from the support surface, which can be used to determine the ride height of the vehicle. The measurement columns at opposite ends of the vehicle allow the user to simultaneously measure the ride height at either end of the vehicle without repositioning of the vehicle. |
| US08640352B2 |
Superior measuring system accurate interior measurments of large or very small enclosures
A superior measuring system comprises three sidewinders and a cobra measure which allows the users to take inside measurement with the assistance for one else. Sidewinders are use to measure distance between 2′ to 23′ and comprise a casing, an upper blade, and a bottom blade. The cobra measure comprises a main body, a single blade and a hood. The sidewinders have three extending blades which extend from the front and the back sides. The both blades can be locked from a locking mechanism so the blades do not move freely. The cobra measure comprises an angle control which control the angle that the single blade so accurate measurements. The single blade in the cobra measure is a curved shaped blade which provides better stability when measurements are taken. |
| US08640351B2 |
Multifunction measuring device
A multifunction measuring device includes: an orientation compass and an inclinometer mounted in a mounting seat and disposed in a housing so that the orientation compass and the inclinometer are respectively exposed through front and rear openings in the housing; a first magnification member disposed in the housing, connected movably to a connecting seat fixed in the housing, and including a first magnifying lens aligned with a first viewing hole in the housing; and a second magnification member connected movably to the housing, and including a second magnifying lens aligned with a second viewing hole in the housing. |
| US08640343B2 |
Cutting apparatus
Cutting apparatus for cutting material, the apparatus comprising two blades arranged so that in use together they can effect a cutting operation in a cutting region therebetween, the blades being mounted relative to one another so that they are urged together in the cutting region as a result of a cutting force initiated by the cutting operation. In one embodiment at least one of the blades is mounted for pivotal movement about a pivot axis so that during the cutting operation the cutting or shearing force generated causes the blade to be pivotally urged towards the other blade. In another embodiment one blade is a rotatable cutter blade and the other blade is a further cutter blade which is adapted to cooperate together to perform the cutting operation in a cutting region, the further cutting blade being mounted so as to be urged towards the rotatable blade as a result of the cutting or shearing forces generated during the cutting operation. |
| US08640342B2 |
Pivoting resilient skin contacting member for razor cartridges
A shaving system with a handle having an enlarged proximal end portion and a housing spaced apart from the enlarged proximal end portion of the handle. The housing has a front face, at least one blade and a cap behind the at least one blade. An elastomeric member is molded to the housing and the handle interconnecting the housing and the handle to form an integral unit. The elastomeric member includes a resilient skin contacting element that flexes to facilitate a pivotable movement of the housing relative to the handle between a biased neutral position and a flexed position and facilitates stretching of skin during a shaving stroke. |
| US08640339B2 |
Brick moulding system for window frames and door frames and method of manufacture of same
A method of manufacture of a brick molding system for window frames and door frames includes providing a frame member which is used to form a frame to accommodate a variety of styles of window or doors in accordance with customer requirements. The frame member has a female brick molding attachment receptacle. A plurality of brick molding variations is provided, all of which have a male coupling engageable with the female brick molding receptacle. An order is received from a customer for a selected style of frame with a selected style of brick molding. Lengths of the frame member are secured together to form the selected style of frame and in the process of forming the frame the male coupling of the selected style of brick molding is inserted into the female brick molding receptacle. |
| US08640331B2 |
Barbed sutures
A system and method for affixing barbs on a suture are provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a suture supply mechanism for selectively retaining a length of suture and a barb supply mechanism for operably engaging a barb supply assembly including at least one barb. At least one of the suture supply mechanism and the barb supply mechanism are configured to approximate towards the other of the barb supply mechanism and suture supply mechanism to engage the at least one barb of the barb supply assembly with the suture of the suture supply assembly. Also provided are a barb for use in forming a barbed suture and a suture including at least one barb. |
| US08640329B2 |
Hybrid fiber/copper cable preparation tool
A tool includes a base with first and second ends and sides. First, second, and third openings extend from the first end. A slot in the first side communicates with the first opening for receiving a cutting tool. Another slot communicates with the second opening for receiving a marking tool. The third opening forms a stop surface. A recess in the first side and in the second end defines a platform. A channel extends from the third opening thereacross to second end. Two pins project on opposite sides of the channel. The base includes a stationary portion on which the pins are located and a pivotal portion defining the second end. The stationary portion defines a supplemental end surface facing parallel to second end. A cutout aligned with the cable channel extends from the platform to the second side and from the supplemental end surface into the stationary portion. |
| US08640328B1 |
Systems for fastening a head stack to a hard drive base assembly
A system for fastening a head stack to a hard drive base assembly (HDBA) comprises a threaded head stack pivot (THSP) having a socket defined therein. The socket comprises a proximal portion defined by inner walls arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the socket and a distal portion having a width less than a width of the proximal portion and forming a ledge adjacent to the proximal portion. The system also comprises a bit for driving the THSP into an HDBA. The bit comprises a head comprising contact surfaces arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bit and tapered surfaces extending from respective contact surfaces to a distal end of the bit. The bit is configured to engage the ledge at seams formed between adjacent tapered surfaces and to engage the inner walls with respective contact surfaces when driving the THSP into the HDBA. |
| US08640327B2 |
Pressure-loss adjusting-member installation tool
A pressure-loss adjusting-member installation tool having pressure-loss adjusting-member grippers that are configured to freely grip or release a pressure-loss adjusting member which is arranged at a position between a lower nozzle arranged at one end of a fuel assembly having a relatively small pressure-loss when a primary coolant flows and a lower core support plate, and which can cause the primary coolant to pass therethrough in a state with a pressure-loss being increased more than that of when the primary coolant passes through only core support plate flow holes formed on the lower core support plate; and a holding unit that holds the pressure-loss adjusting-member grippers in a same positional relationship as a relative positional relationship between the fuel assemblies arranged in plural on the lower core support plate. |
| US08640326B2 |
Electric wire testing apparatus and electric wire processor equipped therewith
An electric wire testing apparatus tests the condition of an end portion of an electric wire including a plurality of core wires and a sheath for covering the core wires. The electric wire testing apparatus includes an imaging device arranged to photograph an end surface of the core wires that have been exposed by stripping off the sheath, a counting unit arranged to count the number of the core wires from an image photographed by the imaging device, and a determining unit arranged to determine pass/fail of the condition of the end portion of the electric wire based on whether or not the number of the core wires counted by the counting unit matches a predetermined number. |
| US08640324B2 |
Method of fabricating a compliant membrane probe
A method for fabricating a compliant membrane probe for communication with an integrated circuit includes installing an array of conductive structures within a flexible membrane, the conductors comprising a beam structure having a first end and a second end, with each one of the conductors further comprising a probe tip extending from the first end, the probe tip having a throat generally surrounded by material of the flexible membrane and a head at an end of the throat such that the head is disposed at an opposite side of the flexible membrane with respect to the beam structure; and configuring the second end of the beam structure so as to be supported by a first end of the beam structure of an adjacent conductor thereto. |
| US08640315B1 |
Rotating adapter assembly
A rotating adapter for joining an offset, right angle, or other pulling head to a pulling tool. The adapter allows one-handed positioning of a pulling head that is offset, oriented at an angle relative to the tool, or designed to fit into a relatively tight space. The pulling head can be rotated and/or repositioned repeatedly without changing the stroke length of the pulling tool. |
| US08640314B2 |
Piston assembly transportation and installation apparatus and methods of transporting and installing a piston assembly therewith
A piston assembly transportation and assembly apparatus and methods of transporting and installing a piston assembly therewith are provided. The apparatus maintains a piston assembly in its assembled state during transportation without allowing damage and contamination to the piston assembly. The apparatus also facilitates storage and installation of the piston assembly into a cylinder bore. The apparatus includes a housing having a bore bounded by an inner cylindrical surface extending from a first end of the housing toward a second end of the housing. A chamfered surface diverges radially outwardly from the first end to mate with an upper surface of a stuffing cone during assembly. The second end has a wall extending radially inwardly from the inner cylindrical surface to axially confront an upper crown of the piston assembly to both prevent the piston assembly from passing though the apparatus and to prevent contamination from entering the apparatus. |
| US08640312B2 |
Manufacturing method of apparatus for generating electrical energy
A manufacturing method of an apparatus for generating electrical energy according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises disposing a first electrode on a substrate, disposing a nanowire comprising a piezoelectric material on the first electrode, disposing a photoelectric conversion layer which is electrically connected to the nanowire on the first electrode, disposing, a second electrode on the nanowire and the photoelectric conversion layer, connecting the first electrode and the second electrode by a connection part, and disposing a storage part which is electrically connected to the connection part, wherein when an external force is applied to at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode, the nanowire is transformed to generate electrical energy. |
| US08640310B2 |
Disengageable clip and associated article
A disengageable clip is provided which has a first configuration to permit an item to be securely gripped and a second configuration that permits the item to be disengaged. Once disengaged, the clip may be removed from the item and/or may be repositioned and then reattached to the item. The clip may include a clip member having an engagement portion defining an open loop and a clip portion extending therefrom. The clip may also include a sleeve slidably positioned upon the clip portion and at least one stop having a width greater than the sleeve. The sleeve may be configured to translate along the clip portion between first and second positions. The first position is proximate the engagement portion and may cause the engagement portion to grip the item. Conversely, the second position is spaced from the engagement portion by the stop to permit disengagement from the item. |
| US08640309B2 |
Device for attaching a flexible clothing in a textile machine
A device attaches a flexible clothing in the form of a clothing strip to a card flat bar of a revolving card flat. The card flat bar has a card flat foot with a clothing take-up surface and a web lying above the card flat foot. At least two clips are provided on the clothing strip. The device includes means to accommodate and hold the card flat bar and the clothing strip. The device furthermore includes press rams, which are guided in a moveable manner transversely to the longitudinal direction of the card flat bar and from both sides parallel to the clothing take-up surface of the card flat bar. By means of the movement of the press rams, an integral formation of the clips on the card flat foot is caused. The press rams have a drive with compression hoses. |
| US08640305B2 |
Hinge assemblies
A toggle type hinge (10) has a damper assembly mounted on the flange (12) of its hinge cup. The damper assembly provides a damping resistance to the closing movement of the hinge over its final stage. The damper assembly includes: a sleeve (21) which houses a linear damper. The sleeve (21) is mounted on a groove (26) on the hinge cup flange (12) and is held in position by a holder (15). A wing (22) on the sleeve (21) is arranged to come into engagement with an arm (11) of the hinge, causing the sleeve to rotate about its longitudinal axis (25). A cam arrangement (19, 23) between the hinge cup flange (12) and the sleeve (21) causes the sleeve to move along its axis (25) as it rotates. The axial movement of the sleeve (21) causes compression of the damper. |
| US08640304B2 |
Cyclone construction for a surface cleaning apparatus
The surface cleaning apparatus includes a cyclone positioned in am air flow passage. The cyclone has a cyclone air inlet and a cyclone air outlet, a dirt outlet spaced from the cyclone air inlet, a cyclone chamber wall and a longitudinal axis. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a dirt collection chamber in communication with the dirt outlet. The dirt collection chamber has an openable wall mounted to the surface cleaning apparatus by a hinge and a centrally positioned longitudinal axis, the openable wall has a center and a hinge side. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a plate positioned at an interface of the dirt collection chamber and the cyclone. The plate is moveably mounted to the openable wall. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes a biasing member biasing the plate towards the hinge side of the openable wall a suction motor positioned in the air flow passage. |
| US08640298B2 |
Wiper lifter
A wiper lifter assembly may include a wiper ramp that lifts a wiper away from a wiper surface on a vehicle, an isolation pad for attaching the assembly to the vehicle, and a wiper contact member that is attached to an upper surface of the wiper ramp. The wiper ramp may be formed of a first material while the wiper contact member and the isolation pad may be both formed of a second material that is softer than the first material. |
| US08640297B2 |
Thatch removing device and methods therefore
Devices for removing thatch buildup from the underside of a mower deck, and methods therefore. The device includes a head having a straight edge and at least one curved edge, a neck, and a conical handle. |
| US08640295B2 |
Paint brush with detachable head
A paint brush has a handle and a paint brush head. The paint brush head is detachable from the paint brush handle. The paint brush head may be rotatable to a number of positions relative to the paint brush handle. |
| US08640293B2 |
Closure for a pipeline pig sender or receiver
A closure for pipeline pig sender or receiver includes a primary closure body and a secondary closure body. The primary closure body has an outer face, an inner face and a port extending therethrough from the outer face to the inner face. The primary closure body is secured to the pipeline pig sender or receiver sealing a closure end when the primary closure body is in the closed position. The secondary closure body closes the port on the primary closure body. The secondary closure body is movable between a closed position and an open position to enable an operator to insert a tool through the port into the diversionary passage to manipulate the pipeline pig and release trapped pressure prior to opening the closure. The secondary closure body is secured to the primary closure body sealing the port when the secondary closure body is in the closed position. |
| US08640289B2 |
Infant head cradle with controlled head movement
An infant head cradle assembly including a bed rest that includes a groove in a bottom surface of the bed rest, a head rest that includes a housing component extending from a bottom of the head rest, and a receptacle at a center of the housing component, a base extending from the bed rest to provide support to the head rest. The base includes a receptacle that includes a hole, and a bed rest attachment adjacent to the receptacle. The assembly further includes a bearing retainer assembly that includes a plurality of ball bearings that facilitate a rotational movement of the head rest while the head rest is seated on the bearing retainer assembly. The housing component restricts movement of the head rest from extending further than a range of approximately 20 degrees from front to back and approximately 40 degrees from left to right. |
| US08640287B2 |
Patient-support apparatus with a locking deck section
A patient-support apparatus includes a patient-support deck movable from a use position to a stowed position. The patient-support deck is configured to engage receivers of the patient-support apparatus to support the deck in a cantilevered configuration. The patient-support deck may be secured to the patient-support apparatus by a locking mechanism. A storage structure is configured to support the patient-support deck in a stowed position. The storage structure is configured to deflect under load to prevent damage to the storage structure or patient-support deck. |
| US08640286B1 |
Medical bed
A medical bed for positioning the patient in the lithotomy position having a mattress pad including a flexible footrest section. The footrest section cascades over and down an end of the medical bed as the mattress pad is translated, or slid, toward the end thereof. The mattress pad is positioned atop the frame, and includes a backrest section, a medial section, and a footrest section. The mattress pad is translatable, or slidable, with respect to the frame. The footrest section includes a plurality of partitioned segments that are pivotable with respect to each other such that the footrest section cascades down and over the foot-end of the frame when the mattress pad is translated toward the foot-end of the bed. |
| US08640284B2 |
Articulated and/or jointed bed
The present invention relates to an articulated bed which comprises a perimetric tubular frame, two mattress support portions articulated at the ends opposite to the respective ends of the frame, and articulated to one another at facing ends by means of a common rotating shaft; a geared motor assembled in the frame which rotationally operates a transverse shaft provided with at least one crank coupled by means of a connecting rod with the common shaft for the articulation of the two mattress support portions, transmitting a vertical oscillation to the common shaft and to the facing ends of the mattress support portions. In one embodiment variant it comprises a second geared motor which transmits an longitudinal alternating movement to the mattress support portions by means of a connecting rod-crank mechanism. |
| US08640275B2 |
Cleaning systems and methods for cleaning containers having non-vertical sidewalls
Devices combining swimming pool skimmers, pumps, and removable, disposable filters into integral, sidewall-mounted systems for above-ground pools and other above-ground liquid containment enclosures, and methods for the use of such systems to remove both larger floating debris and smaller particulate matter to maintain water clarity and hygienic safety within such pools or like liquid containment enclosures are disclosed herein. Specifically, a ring-type above-ground pool comprising a base, a sidewall, and at least a portion of a cleaning system solely supported by the sidewall and mounted at a non-vertical angle such that it is substantially parallel to the sidewall. |
| US08640272B2 |
Flush toilet bowl
A flush toilet bowl includes: a bowl portion including a pooling portion in communication with a drain conduit; a rim surface provided above the bowl portion; and a first slit opening configured to spout flush water supplied through a first conduit toward the bowl portion and to spout the supplied flush water in a generally tangential direction of the rim surface, thereby generating a swirling flow flowing forward near a boundary between the rim surface and the bowl portion. A slit opening shape in a cross section generally perpendicular to a flow direction of water flow spouted from the first slit opening is horizontally flattened. There is provided a flush toilet bowl capable of minimizing the overhang of the rim portion. |
| US08646110B1 |
Method to obtain absorption spectra from near-field infrared scattering using homodyne detection
The present disclosure provides a procedure to obtain the absorption profiles of molecular resonance with ANSOM. The method includes setting a reference field phase to φ=0.5 π relative to the near-field field, and reference amplitude A≧5|αeff|. The requirement on phase precision is found to be <0.3 π. This method enables ANSOM performing vibrational spectroscopy at nanoscale spatial resolution. |
| US08646108B2 |
Multi-domain secure computer system
Disclosed is a hardware based secure multi-level security computing system system. The system comprises a chassis enclosing multiple separate, secure computer devices or domains, each within an electromagnetic shielding Faraday cage. The chassis structure includes internal electromagnetic shields and other features to prevent cross domain electromagnetic interference or compromising emanations. The chassis may be the size of a standard computer tower. The computer devices or domains may be configured for handling information of different classification levels. Optionally, each of the computer devices may operate on significantly less power than a standard computer. Preferably, each computer operates on no more than 50 Watts of power, more preferably on less than 35 Watts of power. |
| US08646107B1 |
Implementing usage limited systems
Methods and apparatus are provided for implementing a system such as a programmable chip system having hardware and software usage limitations and restrictions. Usage limitation circuitry is integrated onto a device. A usage limitation function is integrated into software, such as an operating system for the device. The usage limitation function can be configured to interact with the usage limitation circuitry. The usage limitation circuitry and the usage limitation function are operable to disable the device and the associated software. |
| US08646106B2 |
Limited play optical article
An optical article for playback in a player includes a first file comprising a first control logic; and a second file comprising a second control logic. The first file is configured to direct the player to play a first content data stored on the optical article, when the first control logic is read by the player. The player is directed to read the second file if the player cannot read the first file. The second file is configured to direct the player to play a second content data stored on the article when the second control logic is read by the player. The optical article includes a mark containing an optical state change material disposed on at least a portion of the first file, wherein the mark is in one of a first optical state or a second optical state, and wherein the first control logic can be read only when the mark is in the second optical state. |
| US08646105B2 |
System, method and security device for authorizing use of a software tool
The described embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and security devices for authorizing use of a software tool. Certain embodiments of the invention relate to a security device. The security device comprises at least one communication subsystem for enabling communication between the security device and a first external device, wherein the first external device has a software tool executable on the first external device. The security device further comprises a memory and processor coupled to the at least one communication subsystem and configured to control the at least one communication subsystem. The memory is accessible to the processor and stores a key for authorizing use of the software tool. The memory further stores program instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to execute a security application. |
| US08646104B2 |
Stateless challenge-response broadcast protocol
A broadcast stateless protocol by which a client broadcasts a request to a server group is described. In one embodiment, the client broadcasts the request to a server group. A tamper-evident challenge including the request is received from any one server of the server group. A response to the tamper-evident challenge is broadcast to any one server of the server group, the response including the request. A result to the request is received upon any one server of the server group verifying the response being valid and the request being unmodified. |
| US08646102B2 |
Method and apparatus for issuing rights in a digital rights management system
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates issuing rights in a digital rights management system. The system operates by sending a request to perform an operation on an item of content from a client to a rights-management server, wherein the request includes a usage parameter which specifies constraints involved in performing the operation. Next, the system receives a response from the rights-management server, wherein the response indicates whether or not the client has rights to perform the operation in accordance with the constraints specified by the usage parameter. Note that the response may also include a hint that facilitates generating subsequent requests to perform the operation. Finally, if the client has rights to perform the operation, the system performs the operation on the item of content. |
| US08646100B2 |
Method for executing an application in a restricted operating environment
A user is presented with one or more user-level permissions in a human understandable language, where the one or more user-level permissions represent one or more application-level permissions requested from an application for accessing one or more resources. A security profile is generated having one or more operating system (OS)-level permissions based on at least one of the user-level permissions authorized by the user. The security profile is enforced to restrict the application to accessing the one or more resources based on the OS-level permissions. |
| US08646097B2 |
Security module for audio/video data processing unit
The aim of the present invention is to limit the impact of security breaches, which are the emulators of the security module. This aim is reached by a processing unit of audio/video digital conditional access data, encrypted by control words, responsible for processing security messages containing at least one cryptogram relative to a control word and one instruction relative to the control word, characterized in that it includes means to receive at least two micro programs by security messages, executable by the security module, said security module comprising means to store at least two micro programs and means to receive an instruction contained in the security message, for selecting the micro program indicated by the instruction, for executing the said micro program with at least the cryptogram as a parameter of execution, this execution allowing the calculation of the control word to be sent back to the audio/video processing unit. |
| US08646093B2 |
Method and system for configuration management database software license compliance
A software license engine allows an enterprise to model software license contracts and evaluate deployment of software for compliance with the software license contracts. Deployment of software products in the enterprise is modeled in a configuration management database. The software license engine maintains a license database for connecting software license contracts with software deployment modeled by the configuration management database. Users of the software license engine may use license types that are predefined in the software license engine or may define custom license types. The software license engine may indicate compliance or non-compliance with the software license contracts. |
| US08646090B1 |
Heuristic IPSec anti-replay check
By using an extended bitmap window and arrival sequence numbers, a multiprocessor system may perform anti-replay checks on incoming packets in a similar order as a single processor system. In one implementation, a device may provide an anti-replay check window that includes an original window and an extension window, the original window being contiguous to the extension window. In addition, the device may receive a packet with an anti-replay sequence number and receive another packet whose anti-replay sequence number is within a range of the original window. In addition, the device may determine if the packet has arrived before the other packet by less than a threshold if the anti-replay sequence number of the packet falls within a range of the extension window. Further, the device may retain the packet if the packet has arrived before the other packet by less than the threshold. |
| US08646083B2 |
Virus co-processor instructions and methods for using such
Circuits and methods for detecting, identifying and/or removing undesired content are provided. According to one embodiment, a method for virus processing is provided. A general purpose processor receives and stores a data segment to a first memory at a virtual address. The first memory contains paging data structures for translating virtual addresses to physical addresses. The general purpose processor directs a virus processing hardware accelerator to scan the data segment based on virus signatures compiled for the virus processing hardware accelerator and stored in a second memory. The first memory includes a first virus signature compiled for the general purpose processor. The virus processing hardware accelerator retrieves the data segment by accessing the first memory based on the virtual address and cached information, stored within one or more translation lookaside buffers local to the virus processing hardware accelerator, relating to most recently used entries of the paging data structures. |
| US08646069B2 |
Security apparatus for computer system and method thereof
A computer system security apparatus and a security method thereof, the apparatus including a recognition unit to recognize identification information of a user; an operation unit to produce a result value by executing a predetermined operation on the identification information of the user and unique identification information of the computer system; and a main control unit to execute a booting of the computer system according to whether a preset password of the computer system and the result value are the same. |
| US08646066B2 |
Security protocol control apparatus and security protocol control method
A security protocol control apparatus includes a communication unit configured to perform a communication with a communication partner via a network, and a setting information generation unit configured to, based on setting information for a first security protocol previously established, generate, within the security protocol control apparatus, setting information for a second security protocol that has not yet been established. |
| US08646062B2 |
Remote authentication based on challenge-response using digital certificates
Embodiments of the invention provide for authenticating users of web-based applications by presenting a previously acquired signed digital signature. Examples establish secure user sessions between a client and a user in response to a verification of an identification of the user by the client, the client creating a unique username for the user and unlocking access by the user to a client digital signature for use with a request for service from a third party web server. A secure facilitator session is established between the client and a third party web server, wherein messages exchanged with the unique username and a unique session identification indicia of the secure facilitator session signed by the unlocked digital signature result in executed processes requested by the service identifier data if the messages are validated without the client requiring the user to verify user identification for any message until a secure facilitator session ends. |
| US08646061B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting rights object information between device and portable storage
A method and apparatus for transmitting rights object information between a device and a portable storage are provided. The method includes transmitting a predetermined request from the device to the portable storage, generating a current permission status format including information of a rights object designated by the request, using the portable storage, and transmitting the current permission status format from the portable storage to the device. According to the method and apparatus, overhead is reduced and information transmission speed is increased when the rights object information is transmitted between the device and the portable storage. |
| US08646056B2 |
User-friendly multifactor mobile authentication
A system and method for performing multifactor mobile authentication are described whereby a mobile communications device includes a contactless reader for receiving and validating a unique identifier stored in an external authenticating module prior to granting access to locally stored electronic authenticating material required to access an external resource. In one embodiment, the mobile communications device is a mobile telephone having an RFID reader for receiving the unique identifier from an RFID tag incorporated into the external authenticating module. Preferably, the external authenticating module is associated with a user, such as by being part of the user's jewelry or clothing. The mobile authentication device includes an RFID authenticator module that detects external resource access requests and checks whether the requested resource is on a list of resources that require additional user authentication prior to granting access to locally stored authenticating material. |
| US08646053B2 |
Controlling access of a client system to an access protected remote resource
The present invention provides a security module for Web application, especially a portal application, using a rewriter proxy. The security module ensures that the rewritten URIs are appended by an authentication identifier for determining whether the rewritten URI has not been changed. Preferably, the authentication identifier can be generated by applying a secure hash algorithm and/or secret key to the original URIs of the remote resource or the entire rewritten URIs. When a client activates those URIs, a request is sent to the rewriter proxy. Before a connection to the access protected remote resource is established, the security module validates whether the URIs contained in the user client request have been changed by the user. |
| US08646047B2 |
Method and apparatus for authenticating access by a service
An approach is presented for authenticating access by a service. The server receives a request, from a service, for the server, wherein the request includes, at least in part, a service-specific secret or a derivation of the service-specific secret. Further, the server determines to generate a server-computed secret. Then, the server determines to authenticate the request based, at least in part, on a comparison of the service-specific secret or the derivation of the service-specific secret against the server-computed secret or a derivation of the server-computed secret.The service receives credentials from a credential manager. The secret is part of the credentials. The credential manager and the server share some secret pre-configured data like key tables. The generation of the service specific secrets is based on the shared data. |
| US08646044B2 |
Mandatory integrity control
The contemplated embodiments of the invention provide a method for implementing a mandatory integrity control (MIC) system that provides access control for each and every object and subject that need access control, but in a way that allows legacy operating systems to continue with little modification. The invention provides a novel method that selects an integrity level designator for a subject, when the subject logs onto the computer system. The selected integrity level designator is then added to an existing data structure in the computer system. The existing data structure may be a part of a security descriptor stored in a system access control list of an object. The existing data structure may be a part of a list of security permissions that constitute an access token for a process executing as a subject. |
| US08646043B2 |
System for eliminating unauthorized electronic mail
A system for eliminating unauthorized email sent to a user on a network employs an email-receiving server connected between the network and the user's email client for receiving email addressed to the user and rejecting those in which the sender address does not match any of sender addresses maintained on an “authorized senders” list (ASL list). The ASL lists are maintained by an ASL manager in an ASL database operable with a spam processor module. A redirector module rejects the email if, upon sending a request for validation to the spam processor module, the sender's address does not match any authorized sender address on the ASL list. Email rejected by the redirector module is redirected to a web-based messaging (WBM) module which sends a message to the sender to confirm that the sender is a legitimate sender of email to the intended recipient. |
| US08646041B2 |
Method for securing information exchange, and corresponding device and computer software product
A method is provided for producing securing data for implementing a secured session between a first and at least a second entity based on a protocol for establishing secured sessions. The method includes setting up a third secured entity related to the first entity; generating at least a portion of the securing data within the third entity; and transmitting the securing data from the secured third entity to the first entity. |
| US08646038B2 |
Automated service for blocking malware hosts
Systems, methods, and/or techniques (“tools”) that relate to an automated service for blocking malware hosts are described herein. In different implementations, the tools receive network addresses identifying hosts that are discovered to contain malware. The tools also provide the network addresses to a collection and storage service. Other components provided by the tools receive the network addresses from, for example, a plurality of reporting clients. These components may aggregate the network addresses across the reporting clients, and store instances of the malware and associated malware addresses. |
| US08646037B2 |
Portable identity rating
Portable on-line identity verification technology includes, for example, portable widgets with an identity rating, and other on-line identification verification icons and identity rating scores. |
| US08646035B1 |
Parallel restricted integrated sign on system and method
A method for accessing an application on an internal network comprises configuring a first host name in a computer as associated with an internal network. A second host name in the computer is configured as associated with an external data communication network, where the second host name is an alias that resolves to an internet protocol address of an authentication server in the internal network. A first application hosted over the internal network is invoked. In response to the invocation of the first application, a request to invoke the first application including stored user authentication credentials is transmitted to the authentication server. A restricted application hosted over the internal network is invoked where the invocation command includes the second host name. In response to the invocation of the restricted application, a request that does not include user authentication credentials is transmitted to invoke the restricted application to the authentication server. |
| US08646031B2 |
Method of generating security rule-set and system thereof
There are provided a method of automated generation of a security rule-set and a system thereof. The method comprises: obtaining a group of log records of communication events resulting from traffic related to the security gateway; generating a preliminary rule-set of permissive rules, said set covering the obtained group of log records; generating, with the help of mapping the generated preliminary rule-set to the obtained group of log records, a rule-set of non-overlapping rules covering the group of log records; and generating an operational rule-set by processing the generated rule-set of non-overlapping rules, said processing including mapping the generated rule-set of non-overlapping rule to the obtained group of log records. |
| US08646030B2 |
Method and apparatus for master privacy policy mechanism in a communications network
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium and apparatus for providing a master privacy policy in a communications network are disclosed. For example, the method receives a privacy control parameter to configure a master privacy policy, stores the master privacy policy in the communications network, and applies the master privacy policy to configure a third party service provider privacy policy for a third party service provider based upon the master privacy policy. |
| US08646018B2 |
Increased cable television tap bandwidth utilizing existing tap housings
In general, in one aspect, the disclosure describes a resonance restricting material in communication with a bypass line of a cable television tap. The bypass line generates resonances at a defined frequency in response to RF parameters in the tap and the resonances increase insertion losses at the defined frequency and precludes bandwidth of the tap being increased above the defined frequency. The resonance restricting material may attenuate the resonances generated by the bypass line at the defined frequency (e.g., approximately 1.2 GHz) and reduce insertion losses at the defined frequency and enable the bandwidth of the tap to be increased (e.g., from 1.0 GHz to 1.5 GHz). |
| US08646015B2 |
Apparatus and methods for network access using a set top box and television
An Internet gateway video server transmits selection information to a set top box connected to a television. The set top box displays the selection information on the television. A user views the selection information, and inputs user selection requests to the set top box. The Internet gateway video server receives user the requests for information and retrieves the information. The server then converts the network information from a network format to a television format. The conversion includes scanning the network information for selection elements, and adding selection elements for transmission in the television format. The converted network information is then transmitted to the set top box for display on the television. The user may then make further selections based on the displayed network information. |
| US08646013B2 |
Identifying instances of media programming available from different content sources
Systems and methods are provided for identifying instances of media programming available within a media distribution system. An exemplary method involves searching a listing of media programming available from a first content source using search criteria indicative of a desired media program to identify an instance of the desired media program available from the first content source, obtaining a target program identifier associated with the desired media program from that instance, identifying another instance of the desired media program in a second listing of media programming available from another content source using the target program identifier, and providing a combined search result that indicates availability of the desired media program from the content sources. |
| US08646011B2 |
Certification program for devices operating with an entertainment access system
In order to ensure that an entertainment access system is enabled to unify and simplify a user's enjoyment of content by managing the user's devices, entertainment content and usage rights, it is important to ensure the user devices, and the services they offer, function in accordance with well-established specifications and standards. Importantly, these specifications need to be the same from one device manufacturer to another. This is needed to ensure that the entertainment access system will be able to provide a consistent, reliable and predictable user experience to its users. In some illustrative examples, a certification program is implemented for user devices that receive and render the entertainment content received from the entertainment access system. The certification program establishes specifications to which the devices are to conform regardless of their manufacturer. The program also establishes a testing protocol to determine if the devices are manufactured in accordance with the specifications. The testing protocol is implemented on devices manufactured by the various manufacturers of the devices. Finally, a certificate is issued to those device manufacturers whose devices are demonstrated to be able to successfully complete the testing protocol. The certificate may also authorize the manufacturers to use a certificate mark on their products'packaging, literature and promotional information. |
| US08646010B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing bi-directional data services and live television programming to mobile platforms
A system for bi-directional data content transfer between a plurality of mobile platforms, such as aircraft or cruise ships, and a ground-based control segment. The system includes the ground-based control segment, a space segment and a mobile system disposed on each mobile platform. The ground-based control segment includes an antenna which is used to transmit encoded RF signals representative of data content to the space segment. The space segment includes a plurality of satellite transponders, with one of the transponders being designated by the ground-based control segment to transpond the encoded RF signals to the mobile system. The mobile system includes steerable receive and transmit antennas. The receive antenna receives the encoded RF signals from the satellite transponder, which are thereafter decoded, demodulated, D/A converted by a communications subsystem and transmitted to a server. The server filters off that data content not requested by any occupants on the mobile system. A local area network (LAN) receives the remaining data content and provides same to individual users on the mobile platform in accordance with previously submitted programming requests or data input by the users at access stations associated independently with each user. The transmit antenna is used to transmit data content from laptop computers, PDAs or other user electronic devices coupled to the access stations back to the designated satellite transponder. The satellite transponder then transponds the data back to the antenna of the ground-based control segment. |
| US08646009B2 |
Method for providing content
In response to a request from a playback apparatus over a network to play back content, a first recording/playback apparatus transmits data indicating content satisfying the request to the playback apparatus over the network. When selecting desired content from the transmitted data, the playback apparatus requests the first recording/playback apparatus to transmit data of the selected content to the playback apparatus over the network. When the data of the desired content is transmitted to the playback apparatus from the first recording/playback apparatus over the network in response to the request, the content being transmitted is played back via streaming. When the playback apparatus transmits data indicating the played back content and an address of a second recording/playback apparatus to the first recording/playback apparatus over the network, the first recording/playback apparatus transmits data of the played back content to the second recording/playback apparatus over the network in accordance with the address. |
| US08646007B2 |
Digital television signal, digital television receiver, and method of processing digital television signal
A digital television (DTV) signal for use in a DTV receiver includes an extended text table (ETT) which includes a header and a message body. The header includes a table identification extension field which serves to establish uniqueness of the ETT, and the message includes an extended text message (ETM). If the ETT is an event ETT, the table ID extension field includes an event identification which specifies an identification number of an event associated with the ETT. On the other hand, if the ETT is a channel ETT, the table identification extension field includes a source identification which specifies a programming source of a virtual channel associated with the ETT. A section-filtering unit included in the DTV receiver is able to use table identification extension fields of a plurality of ETTs for section-filtering a pertinent event or channel ETT from the ETTs. |
| US08646006B2 |
System and method for automatically authoring interactive television content
A system and method is provided to automatically generate content for ITV products and services by processing primary media sources. In one embodiment of the invention, keywords are automatically extracted from the primary media sources using one or more of a variety of techniques directed to video, audio and/or textual content of the multimodal source. In some embodiments, keywords are then processed according to one or more disclosed algorithms to narrow the quantity of downstream processing that is necessary to associate secondary sources (reference items) with the primary video source. Embodiments of the invention also provide automatic searching methods for the identification of reference items based on the processed keywords in order to maximize the value added by the association of reference items to the video source. |
| US08646005B2 |
Information system
A system and method for displaying an electronic program schedule guide is provided. The system has areas for displaying program schedule information. In addition, the system also has areas that may be used for advertising programs, products or services. In another embodiment, the system has areas for displaying messages to the user. |
| US08646002B2 |
System for realistically reproducing multimedia content and method thereof
A system for realistically reproducing multimedia content includes a realistic multimedia content producer for providing the multimedia content; a device metadata server for providing device metadata for realistically reproducing the multimedia content; and a realistic multimedia reproducing apparatus for downloading the device metadata for the multimedia content from the device metadata server, and applying device metadata selected by a user to thereby reproduce the multimedia content. Further, a method for realistically reproducing multimedia content includes downloading multimedia content to be reproduced realistically; checking if the multimedia content includes device metadata for realistic reproduction; downloading a plurality of device metadata for realistic reproduction of the multimedia content if the multimedia content does not include the device metadata; and reproducing realistically the multimedia content by controlling a reproducing device to which metadata selected by a user from the plurality of device metadata are applied. |
| US08646001B1 |
Signal processing apparatus and methods
A unified system of programming communication. The system encompasses the prior art (television, radio, broadcast hardcopy, computer communications, etc.) and new user specific mass media. Within the unified system, parallel processing computer systems, each having an input (e.g., 77) controlling a plurality of computers (e.g., 205), generate and output user information at receiver stations. Under broadcast control, local computers (73, 205), combine user information selectively into prior art communications to exhibit personalized mass media programming at video monitors (202), speakers (263), printers (221), etc. At intermediate transmission stations (e.g., cable television stations), signals in network broadcasts and from local inputs (74, 77, 97, 98) cause control processors (71) and computers (73) to selectively automate connection and operation of receivers (53), recorder/players (76), computers (73), generators (82), strippers (81), etc. At receiver stations, signals in received transmissions and from local inputs (225, 218, 22) cause control processors (200) and computers (205) to automate connection and operation of converters (201), tuners (215), decryptors (224), recorder/players (217), computers (205), furnaces (206), etc. Processors (71, 200) meter and monitor availability and usage of programming. |
| US08645998B2 |
Video signal processing apparatus and control method thereof
A video signal processing apparatus, comprises: a display unit; an user interface (UI) generating unit that generates a UI including a channel information array in which a plurality of channel informations are arranged to be displayed to the display unit; a user inputting unit that receives a first moving instruction and a second moving instruction for moving the channel information array, the second moving instruction including a position information about moving of the channel information array; and a control unit that controls the UI generating unit so that the channel informations arranged in the channel information array can move one by one if the first moving instruction is received, and the channel informations arranged in the channel information array can move in an manner that corresponds to the position information if the second moving instruction is received. |
| US08645997B2 |
Apparatus and method for transmitting media content
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computing device having a controller to transmit a client program having a GUI to a media device, where the client program presents an overlay that superimposes onto media content received by the media device and enables the media device to associate a user-generated comment with the media content received at the media device. The controller can receive user-generated comments and media content in a temporal vicinity of the user-generated comments via the client program, and can receive a request for the user-generated comments. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08645996B2 |
Digital broadcast receiver and a method for providing a graphical user interface
A digital broadcast receiver may display virtual keys on a screen, the virtual keys may be provided in a plurality of regions, each region having an identifier and characters that are unique from other regions. The digital broadcasting receiver may receive at least one input corresponding to selection of the identifier for selection of a desired character, wherein the desired character and at least one other character in a different region are displayed differently on the screen. |
| US08645989B2 |
Method for enhancing digital video recorder television advertising viewership
A method for enhancing digital video recorder television advertising viewership provides a method wherein the first or last number of seconds of a commercial break are carefully authored to provide a “teaser” to entice the viewer to watch multiple commercials during the commercial break instead of skipping the commercial break using the fast forward or jump functions of the DVR. A bookending function displays an advertisement before and/or after a program that has been recorded on the DVR's storage device is played to the viewer. The viewer selects a recorded program from the DVR's storage device to playback. Before the program is played back, an advertisement is retrieved from the storage device and is displayed before the program is run. Another advertisement is retrieved and then played after the program is over. |
| US08645987B2 |
Advertisement airing audit system and associated methods
The system provides an Internet-based site accessible by customers and broadcasters for tracking the airing of their advertisements. The system includes a software package for creating a database of all events occurring on a broadcast station, which may comprise, for example, a radio or television station, although these are not intended as limitations. The software package receives a recording of a station's output, which contains metadata on each broadcast element that includes time, date, and content information. As the broadcast proceeds, the start and stop time of each element are stored in a table in the database. This database can then be subsequently queried via the website by a customer or media personnel to ascertain that the spot has aired as intended. |
| US08645986B2 |
Contents watching device and contents recommending method
A conventional contents-watching device, etc. calculate users' tastes of contents only on the basis of watching frequencies, so that variety programs that the users are less interested in but that are broadcasted every week are apt to get a higher degree of users' tastes than a soccer game of the Japanese national team that the users are highly interested in but that is broadcasted only several times per year. In order to solve the problem set forth above, the present invention proposes a contents-watching device that calculates a taste value by normalizing a watching index indicative of the number of contents-watching times or the like for every contents-attribute with an emergent index indicative of the number of contents-watching chances, acquires an contents-attribute connected with contents to be a subject for watching recommendation, and has a function to calculate watching recommendation information by using the taste value of the contents-attribute. |
| US08645980B2 |
Optical device and adjusting method thereof
An optical device and method are provided including a spindle motor mounted in a turn table on which an optical disk is attached and detached. The optical device includes a bracket secured with a stator of the spindle motor. The optical device also includes a tray body directly connected to the bracket. A skew angle of the spindle motor is adjusted while the bracket is assembled to the tray body, and an adjusting method of the optical device. |
| US08645979B2 |
Optical pickup
An optical pickup includes a lens moving mechanism constructed of a lens, a lens holder holding the lens, a guide member guiding the lens holder, a lead screw including a thread groove, a motor rotating the lead screw, and a rack gear including a body fixed to the lens holder and claws fitted into the thread groove of the lead screw, in which an arm connecting the body and the claws of the rack gear is formed so that the shape of a cross section perpendicular to the rotational axis direction of the lead screw is a convex shape, a recess shape or a wave-shape. |
| US08645978B2 |
Method for data maintenance
A method for data storage implemented in a data storage system is disclosed. Data storage nodes may be interconnected by means of a communications network. The method may include sending a request for a first data item to a plurality of storage nodes. The first data item may include a reference to a second data item stored in the storage system. The method may include receiving the first data item from at least one storage node, and sending a request for the second data item to the plurality of storage nodes based on the reference included in the first data item. |
| US08645976B2 |
Application programming interface (API) for restoring a default scan list in a wireless communications receiver
A signal may be received in accordance with a protocol stack having a first portion (400) that contains a control layer and a stream layer, and a second portion (401) that contains a physical layer and a MAC layer. The first portion may invoke an application program interface (API 1402) to instruct the second portion to replace a current set of signal acquisition parameters with an initial set of signal acquisition parameters. |
| US08645975B2 |
Adding function to device driver
An information processing apparatus includes a detecting unit configured to detect an additional function data file including a description of an added function that is provided in addition to an already-installed device driver, a storing unit configured to store the detected additional function data file in an information storage area recognized as a logical device by an operating system, and a driver control unit configured to incorporate contents of the additional function data file into the already-installed device driver in response to the additional function data file stored in the information storage area. |
| US08645970B1 |
Method to route notifications to designated responder
A method for looking up routing information for a person or program assigned to respond to an incident messages is explained herein. The method includes recognizing a routing code that was appended to either the object name or description. The routing code is recognized by a program that looks up the responders contact information in a table that correlates routing codes with designated responder information. |
| US08645968B2 |
Information processing system, information processing method, program, and storage medium
An information processing system capable of communicating with a printing apparatus which returns from power saving by external access, and having first and second access units adapted to access the printing apparatus, includes a requesting unit adapted to request notification of event occurrence generated by processing by the first access unit, and a determination unit adapted to determine the presence/absence of the notification of event occurrence. The second access unit accesses the printing apparatus, if the determination unit determines that there is the notification of the event occurrence. |
| US08645965B2 |
Supporting metered clients with manycore through time-limited partitioning
In some embodiments, the invention involves partitioning resources of a manycore platform for simultaneous use by multiple clients, or adding/reducing capacity to a single client. Cores and resources are activated and assigned to a client environment by reprogramming the cores' route tables and source address decoders. Memory and I/O devices are partitioned and securely assigned to a core and/or a client environment. Instructions regarding allocation or reallocation of resources is received by an out-of-band processor having privileges to reprogram the chipsets and cores. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08645961B2 |
Image formation apparatus and program
An image formation apparatus that has a webpage viewing function includes a job receiver that receives a job execution instruction from a user terminal, a job analyzer that analyzes the received job execution instruction, a job executor that executes a job based on a result of the analysis, and a job registration part that, if the received job execution instruction includes URL information specifying a webpage, registers user identification information pertaining to a user who issued the job execution instruction and the URL information included therein in correspondence with each other such that the webpage can be viewed with use of the URL information. |
| US08645952B2 |
Method for providing location independent dynamic port mirroring on distributed virtual switches
A method for providing location independent dynamic port mirroring on distributed virtual switches is disclosed. A controller is provided to configure one or more virtual switches within a group of physical machines to appear as a set of distributed virtual switches. In response to the receipt of a data packet at a port of a physical machine, a determination is made whether or not the port has a monitor port located on the physical machine. If the port has a monitor port located on the same physical machine, a copy of the data packet is sent to the monitor port of the physical machine. If the port has a monitor port located on a different physical machine, a copy of the data packet along with an identification (ID) of the port and an ID of the monitor port are encapsulated, and the encapsulated information are sent to a controller. |
| US08645944B2 |
Deployment of a solution artifact to a client application
Technologies are described herein for deploying a solution artifact to a client-side application. In one method, an instruction to deploy the solution artifact to the client-side application program is received. Upon receiving the instruction, a determination is made whether a package associated with the solution artifact and the client-side application program was generated. Upon determining that the package was generated, a determination is made whether the package is current. Upon determining that the package is not current or that the package was not generated, the package is generated based on the solution artifact and the client-side application program. Upon determining that the package is current or upon generating the package, the package is deployed to the client-side application program. |
| US08645938B2 |
System and method for replacing code
Computer-implemented methods, computer program products and data processing systems for transmitting a target code module to a server that is executing a computer program capable of using the target code module, and for obtaining the target code module at the server. The target code module is encapsulated in a base language code module, and the base language code module is transmitted to the server. The server receives the base language code module having the target code module encapsulated therein, and extracts the target code module from the base language code module. |
| US08645933B2 |
Method and apparatus for detection and optimization of presumably parallel program regions
A method and apparatus for optimizing source code for use in a parallel computing environment by compiling an application source code, performing analysis, and optimizing the application source code. At the time of compilation, a compiler adds instrumentation to a prepared executable. An analysis program then analyzes the prepared executable and generates an analysis result. The analysis result is then used by the analysis program to optimize the application source code for parallel processing. |
| US08645932B2 |
Control flow analysis methods and computing devices for converting COBOL-sourced programs to object-oriented program structures
The various embodiments of the invention relate generally to computer software, computer program architecture, software development, and computer programming languages, and more specifically, to techniques for analyzing control flow in COBOL-sourced programs to facilitate optimized conversions to object-oriented program structures. For example, a compiler can include a global optimizer configured to analyze execution flow for a range of blocks of source code in the memory to determine flow-affected code. Also, the compiler can include a native code generator configured to generate native code based on representations of the native code as functions of the source code. The native code is configured to execute on a virtual machine. |
| US08645926B2 |
Testing a system management program
A testing system for a reverse client-server system management program comprises a server connected to one or more recipient devices and emulating devices through one or more repeaters. The recipient devices act as targets for the management program and the emulating devices emulate one or more of the recipient devices, to enable an assessment of the scalability of the management program to a large number of targets. The repeaters direct management requests from the server to the target devices depending on the configuration of the hook and/or the nature of the operation requested by the management request. The recipient devices and emulating devices execute the required system management operation on receipt of a management request from the server (via the repeaters). The recipient devices and emulating devices generate and transmit a report detailing the outcome of the system management operation. |
| US08645919B2 |
Generic validation test framework for graphical user interfaces
A scalable system and method is described that automatically identifies one or more generic tests for testing a GUI. A generic test case is written once instead of writing test cases for every single page or assembly. Each page has a corresponding page type. Each generic test is mapped to one or more testing rules, where the testing rules each have a rule type. An automated system is provided to scan target directories for all relevant pages related to a software product, identify a page type for each page, identify the appropriate generic test cases to be applied to each page, execute the generic test cases, and provide an output to indicate the results of the tests on the various pages. The generic tests for the GUIs can thus be automatically applied to identify and eliminate a certain class of bugs matching the behavior of the generic test case. |
| US08645918B2 |
Influencing device for control apparatus
An adjustment device for adjusting at least one control device with at least one control device microcontroller and with at least one control device debug interface, where the adjustment device comprises at least one programmable unit, at least one data transmission interface for connecting the adjustment device to an operating unit, and at least one adjustment device debug interface for connecting the adjustment device to the control device debug interface of the control device. The adjustment device according to the invention accomplishes the objective of reducing the load on the control device due to control device application by at least one address list and at least one data list, which are provided in a memory of the adjustment device. |
| US08645914B2 |
Conversational programming
Methods and systems for providing rich semantic feedback to programmers by executing programs, or parts of programs, in data contexts relevant to the programmer are provided. According to one embodiment, a method is provided for communicating semantic information to a programmer. A conversational programming agent of a programming environment receives (i) information regarding multiple programming building blocks and (ii) information indicative of a current situation relating to the programming building blocks. The conversational programming agent evaluates the programming building blocks based on the current situation. Then, the conversational programming agent provides semantic feedback regarding the programming building blocks to the programmer based on results of the evaluation. |
| US08645908B2 |
Method for generating specifications of static test
A computer implemented rule for verifying consistency in design documents is modeled as a set of associations among deliverable components, and a descriptive text explaining the specification is generated in combination with a text template. |
| US08645907B2 |
Capturing effort level by task upon check-in to source control management system
Techniques are provided for capturing the ID of a work item, and the corresponding effort level information, as a part of the actual check-in process of the artifacts into the underlying change management system. This effort information can then be propagated to an external system for subsequent reporting and analysis. In one embodiment, tasks (or similar items such as issues or bugs) are entered into a common task or issue tracking system. As part of this process each task is assigned a unique identifier. A “call-out” is added to the source control management system which captures the effort level and task ID associated with the proposed change. The data entered is validated to ensure that the task ID is valid and that the effort entered is within a valid range. If the data entered is valid, the change to the underlying artifact is allowed to proceed and the effort and task information is stored for later analysis. If the data is not valid, the proposed change is rejected and an appropriate error message is returned to the user. |
| US08645901B2 |
Visualization and information display for shapes in displayed graphical images based on a cursor
Graphical viewing of shapes and descriptive information in displayed graphical images. In one aspect, shape information is displayed in a graphical interface using a computer system and includes causing a display of an image and one or more shapes in the image, and causing a display of a cursor. Labels are also displayed, each of the labels associated with a different one of the displayed shapes. The plurality of labels are displayed within a predetermined zone relative to a displayed cursor, and wherein no labels are displayed outside of the zone. |
| US08645897B1 |
Integrated circuit design verification system
An integrated circuit (IC) design verification system includes a memory for storing an IC design and a processor in communication with the memory. The IC design includes multiple IP cores and the design verification apparatus includes multiple verification modules. The processor configures a first set of connections between the IP cores and the verification modules based on a first connection database and verifies each IP core independently using the first set of connections. Thereafter, the processor configures a second set of connections between the IP cores and the verification modules based on a second connection database generated based on the first connection database, and verifies the multiple IP cores together using the second set of connections. |
| US08645895B2 |
Checking an ESD behavior of integrated circuits on the circuit level
A system and a method for testing the ESD behavior, wherein a circuit (7) is automatically tested at circuit diagram level in that technology-specific ESD data is provided in database (2) for each circuit component present in the circuit, without requiring complex circuit simulations, for example based on front end or back end data, by taking into account the layout. |
| US08645894B1 |
Configuration and analysis of design variants of multi-domain circuits
A circuit design system generates a circuit variant by relocating one or more circuit elements through a user move action on a user interface. When the user move action results in the circuit element traversing a circuit domain boundary, the design system performs one or more operations to form the circuit variant having its initial connectivity with the relocated circuit element without any other user action on the user interface than the user move action. Further, in response to no other action on the user interface than the user move action, analysis tools and reports are initiated so that rapid evaluation of circuit variants may be implemented. |
| US08645890B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying connections between configurable nodes in a configurable integrated circuit
Some embodiments provide a method that defines a set of connections that connect the nodes in a configurable node array. The method identifies different sets of connections for connecting a set of the nodes. For each identified set of connections, the method computes a metric score that quantifies a quality of the identified set of connections. The method then selects one of the identified sets of connections to connect the configurable nodes in the array. |
| US08645886B2 |
Integrated circuit power management verification method
A method for verifying power management of an integrated circuit design includes estimating a current load requirement of clocked modules in the circuit design based on the clock frequency and a predefined current load model. The voltage supplied to the circuit design is monitored. A first voltage regulator provides additional current drive to the circuit design when the supplied voltage drops below a threshold value of a full throttle run mode of the circuit design. A second voltage regulator is enabled to boost a response time of the first voltage regulator when the voltage drops below the threshold value. |
| US08645884B2 |
Multi-layer memory structure for behavioral modeling in a pre-distorter
A method and system for modeling distortion of a non-linear electronic device are disclosed. According to one aspect, the invention provides a layered memory structure that includes a plurality of memory structure layers. Each memory structure layer has an input to receive an input signal and has a memory function. Each memory function has at least one delay element that provides a pre-determined delay of the input signal of the memory structure layer. The pre-determined delay is different for each of at least two memory structure layers and is based at least in part on an evaluation period corresponding to the memory structure layer. |
| US08645881B1 |
Methods and apparatus for performing statistical static timing analysis
A method and an apparatus to perform statistical static timing analysis have been disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes performing statistical analysis on performance data of a circuit from a plurality of libraries at two or more process corners using a static timing analysis module, and estimating performance of the circuit at a predetermined confidence level based on results of the statistical analysis during an automated design flow of the circuit without using libraries at the predetermined confidence level. |
| US08645872B2 |
User interfaces for facilitating merging and splitting of communication sessions
An exemplary method includes a communication device maintaining multiple active communication sessions with multiple other communication devices, displaying, on a touch screen display, multiple graphical objects representing the multiple active communication sessions, detecting a pinch touch gesture provided by a user on the touch screen display in relation to the graphical objects representing the multiple active communication sessions, and initiating, in response to the pinch touch gesture, a merging of the multiple active communication sessions to form a merged active communication session. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. |
| US08645869B1 |
List building system
A system implementable using a programmable processor includes a plurality of pre-stored commands for building an inventory of audio, musical, works or audio/visual works, such as music videos. A plurality of works can be collected together in a list for purposes of establishing a play or a presentation sequence. The list can be visually displayed and edited. A plurality of lists can be stored for subsequent retrieval. A selected list can be retrieved and executed. Upon execution, the works of the list are presented sequentially either audibly or visually. The works can be read locally from a source, such as a CD, or can be obtained, via wireless transmission, from a remote inventory. If desired, establishment of a predetermined credit can be a pre-condition to being able to add items to the list for presentation. |
| US08645867B2 |
Modifying time associated with digital media items
A computer-implemented method includes displaying multiple content items in a user interface, where each content item has an initial time value. Input is received to modify time values of the multiple content items. Input of a new time value for a content item of the multiple content items is also received. A change amount value is determined based on the difference between an initial time value of the content item and the new time value. For each content item, the initial time value is modified to a different time value by applying the change amount value to the initial time value. |
| US08645863B2 |
Menus with translucency and live preview
A region menu is used to easily access menu items. Generally, the region menu includes a number of regions with associated menus that are located close to an initial mouse position from where the region menu is evoked. Hovering over any of the regions of the region menu displays the menu item that is associated with the region. Additionally, hovering over a menu item within one of the regions of the displayed region menu may activate a live preview showing a projected result of what would occur should that menu item be selected. During a live preview, a portion of the region menu becomes translucent such that content beneath the menu becomes visible. |
| US08645862B2 |
Displaying and executing web services in multiple content domains
A method, computer program product and system for displaying Web services. Web services may be displayed by generating a data model of a description of the Web service. A perspective visitor may be applied to the generated data model where the perspective visitor corresponds to a preselected domain. A perspective of the Web service associated with the preselected domain may be displayed in response to applying the perspective visitor. The perspective visitor may include a visitor pattern for encapsulating an operation to be performed on elements of the data model. |
| US08645857B2 |
Method for controlling information display
A system and method for controlling the display of multiple pieces of information in adjacent regions of a display area is presented. A user control for the interface between the regions is provided so that a single type of user input provided to the control can contextually alter various characteristics of the interface. |
| US08645856B1 |
Ticker for internet client
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an Internet client window with a ticker display area. The ticker display area displays moving hypertext ticker data associated with selected ticker types and ticker fields. Ticker data may be provided by third party suppliers such as sponsors. Activation of the hypertext ticker data results in a display of related information. The ticker data may move in various directions through the ticker display area at various speeds, and be displayed in various formats, all depending on the ticker types and ticker fields with which the ticker data is associated, upon the number of ticker types being simultaneously displayed, and upon other factors including user preferences or selections. The Internet client window includes various other navigational and informational data, links, and application-invoking buttons. |
| US08645854B2 |
Provisioning workflow management methods and systems
An exemplary method includes associating one or more workflow tasks with each of a plurality of universal workflow steps, the one or more workflow tasks being specific to a provisioning workflow that corresponds to a first type of network circuit, receiving a request to provision a network circuit of the first type, displaying, in response to the request, graphical depictions of the universal workflow steps in a graphical user interface, determining a completion status of each of the universal workflow steps based on a completion status of each of the one or more workflow tasks associated with each of the universal workflow steps, and graphically indicating in the graphical user interface the completion status of each of the universal workflow steps. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed. |
| US08645851B1 |
Methods and apparatus for using a variant of the Bellman-Ford algorithm that operates with inconsistent constraints
Disclosed are apparatus and methods for generating displays based on a layout with inconsistent constraints. The layout specifies a set of rectangular components within a container rectangle. A plurality of grid lines is determined from the layout. Each rectangular component is associated with at least two grid lines that are based on a size of the rectangular component. A system of constraints is generated that includes inconsistent constraints. A graph including a plurality of nodes and a plurality of edges is generated from the plurality of grid lines and the system of constraints. A variant of the Bellman-Ford algorithm configured to operate with the inconsistent constraints solves a single-source path-length problem for the graph to determine locations for the grid lines. A display of the rectangular components is generated based on the locations of the grid lines. |
| US08645847B2 |
Security enhancements for immersive environments
In some example embodiments, a method includes defining a tracking area for a first avatar in an online immersive environment, wherein the tracking area encompasses the first avatar and some defined area beyond the first avatar. The first avatar represents a first person who is a guardian of a second person in the real world and external to the online immersive environment. A second avatar represents the second person in the online immersive environment. The method includes tracking a path through the online immersive environment of the tracking area for the first avatar. The method includes marking a region in the online immersive environment as a safe zone for the second avatar, after the path of the tracking area for the first avatar has traversed the region. The method includes authorizing access to the region marked as the safe zone for the second avatar in the online immersive environment. |
| US08645843B2 |
Supporting role-based access control in component-based software systems
A method, system and computer program product is disclosed for supporting role-based access control in a collaborative environment, wherein pluralities of users work together in a collaborative process using a software system. The method comprises componentizing the software system into a multitude of software components, and limiting access to specific software components to certain users based on roles assigned to the users as defined by a run-time state of the collaborative process. The set of components that a user can access is dynamic, that set can change based on the “context” or the step where the user is in a collaborative workflow/process. Thus, in comparison with traditional access control mechanisms, an embodiment of the invention combines three different elements: a) the set of components that comprise the application is partitioned in such a way as to make componentized role-based access control feasible, b) a method for specifying inter-component dependencies to enable role-based groups, and c) enabling the modification of the access privileges based on contextual information from a collaborative process. |
| US08645842B2 |
Interactive group content systems and methods
In an exemplary system, a content hub subsystem is selectively and communicatively coupled to a plurality of access devices. At least a subset of the access devices is associated with a predefined group of users. The content hub subsystem is configured to receive data representative of content from at least one of the access devices associated with the predefined group of users, map the content to the predefined group of users, and provide data representative of the content to the access devices associated with the predefined group of users. Each of the access devices associated with the predefined group of users is configured to generate at least one interactive graphical object representative of the content, and generate and present a graphical user interface including the interactive graphical object. |
| US08645839B2 |
Online desktop distribution
An apparatus and a method for an online desktop distribution is described. In one embodiment, an online desktop operates on a client with an online desktop distributor having an operating system with one or more kernels compiled for usermode. A server coupled to the client stores and uploads a user profile setting to the client to configure the online desktop on the client based on a user login on the online desktop. The online desktop can be booted from the client with the online desktop distributor or run as a hosted operating system in usermode under a default operating system of the client. |
| US08645837B2 |
Graphical user interface for managing services in a distributed computing system
Available components that make up a distributed computing system are discovered. The available components include available hardware components and available software components that operate on the available hardware components. The available components and dependencies between the available components are graphically displayed in a map of the distributed computing system. A plurality of undeployed services is also graphically displayed. A selection of one of the plurality of undeployed services and a selection of one of the available components is received. The selected undeployed service is deployed to the selected available component. |
| US08645834B2 |
Dynamic real-time playback
Systems and methods for previewing edited video. In general, in one implementation, a method includes generating a video sequence from a plurality of video segments, identifying an inability to output at least one video segment in the video sequence in substantially real time; and adjusting an output level associated with the at least one video segment to enable the at least one video segment to be output in substantially real time. The output level may include a video quality or a frame rate. |
| US08645825B1 |
Providing autocomplete suggestions
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for providing autocomplete suggestions. A computing device can receive an n-gram of characters. Cached autocomplete suggestions can be identified in a local cache of the computing device. Additional autocomplete suggestions can be requested at a first time. The computing device can prevent presentation of the cached autocomplete suggestions until a presentation event occurs. The presentation event can include (i) receiving the requested additional autocomplete suggestions by the computing device or (ii) the end of a predetermined period after the first time. The computing device can determine that that the presentation event has occurred, and in response, can display one or more autocomplete suggestions. |
| US08645824B2 |
Selective undo of editing operations performed on data objects
An undo process performed on a data object includes selecting a stored prior state of the data object; comparing the stored prior state with the current state of the data object to determine differences between the stored prior state and the current state of the data object other than the effect of the undesired editing operation; and applying the differences to the stored prior state of the data object to obtain a new state of the data object. Each prior state of the data object corresponds to an effect of one of previously performed editing operations on the data object. |
| US08645814B2 |
System and method for displaying status of electronic messages
Methods, systems and computer program products are displaying one or more electronic messages on a user interface. In one method, the method records timestamps of one or more activities of a user in a first user session. Subsequently, the method compares the timestamp of an initialization of a second user session, with the recorded timestamp of the one or more events such as a last logout timestamp and/or a last activity timestamp of the first user session. Further, the method may mark one or more new electronic messages based on the comparison of the timestamps. The method may then display the status of the marked one or more new electronic messages on a user interface based on the markings applied on the one or more new electronics messages received. |
| US08645812B1 |
Methods and apparatus for automated redaction of content in a document
A redaction process obtains redaction data indicating content to be redacted in a document. In addition, the redaction process obtains non-redaction data indicating content not to be redacted in the document. Furthermore, the redaction process obtains proximity data indicating proximate expressions to be matched against the document. In this manner, the redaction process processes the redaction data, non-redaction data and proximity data against the document to produce a redact list and a potential list. Upon receiving user selections from both the redact and the potential lists, the redaction process applies a redaction function to the document to produce a redacted version of the document. |
| US08645810B2 |
Fast detection of convergence or divergence in iterative decoding
A termination indication is computed during an iteration of an iterative decoding of a representation of a codeword according to a schedule. The termination indication is tested to see if the decoding has converged or is not likely to converge. The testing of the termination indication shows convergence or lack of likelihood thereof even if a codeword bit estimate was flipped during an immediately preceding traversal of the schedule. Preferably, the termination indication includes an error correction syndrome weight, a zero value whereof indicates convergence, and the computing of the termination indication includes, in response to the flipping of a codeword bit estimate, flipping the error correction syndrome bits that are influenced by that codeword bit estimate. |
| US08645805B2 |
Conditional decoding receiver
A wireless telecommunication system receiver is described comprising a demodulator adapted to demodulate a signal received from a source via a transmission channel to provide an error correction code word in the form of flexible or hard values, a decoder adapted to decode the code word, characterized in that it further comprises decision means adapted to receive an estimation of the fading coefficients of the channel during the transmission of the code word as well as an estimation of the noise variance or the signal to noise ratio, to deduce therefrom an estimation of the relative instantaneous mutual information to the channel, and to decide whether or not to inhibit the decoding of the code word by the decoder, according to whether the binary rate of transmission of the source is respectively greater than or less than a characteristic threshold of the instantaneous mutual information. |
| US08645799B2 |
Storage codes for data recovery
A random permutation code is described which provides efficient repair of data nodes. A specific implementation of a permutation code is also described, followed by description of a MISER-Permutation code. Finally, an optimal repair strategy is explained that involves an iterative process of downloading the most effective available parity data, updating costs of remaining parity data, and repeating until the data is recovered. |
| US08645793B2 |
Statistical tracking for flash memory
A system includes a read module, a statistical data generating module, and a storing module. The read module reads charge levels of nonvolatile memory cells and generates read signals. The statistical data generating module generates statistical data based on the read signals. The storing module stores the statistical data. The read module generates the read signals based on the charge levels of the nonvolatile memory cells and the statistical data. |
| US08645791B2 |
Data cache controller, devices having the same, and method of operating the same
An method of operating a data cache controller is provided. The method includes transmitting first data output from a data cache to a central processing unit (CPU) core with a first latency and transmitting second data to the CPU core with a second latency greater than the first latency. The first latency is a delay between a read request to the data cache and transmission of the first data according to execution of a first instruction fetched from an instruction cache, and the second latency is a delay between a read request to the data cache and transmission of the second data according to execution of a second instruction fetched from the instruction cache. |
| US08645786B2 |
Decoding method
A decoding method for decoding information content in at least one data packet, which is transmitted from a sender to a receiver via a data link. The information is represented by a bit sequence, which is transformed into a transmittable redundancy version. The information is initially transmitted for a first time in a first data packet from the sender to the receiver. The information is represented by a first redundancy version, which is self-decodable. An incorrect receipt is confirmed by sending a confirmation from the receiver to the sender. The information is retransmitted at least a second time in a second data packet from the sender to the receiver upon receipt of the confirmation, wherein, for representation of the information, a second redundancy version is used, the selection of which is performed in dependence on a coding parameter, describing whether the redundancy version is self-decodable or not. |
| US08645785B2 |
Method of re-ordering received data blocks in hybrid automatic repeat request telecommunication system
A method of transmitting data blocks between a user equipment and a station using parallel hybrid automatic repeat request processes. The station includes a scheduler that signals to the user equipment allocations of resources and parameters for transmission and re-transmission of the data blocks, and a set of reception buffers that receive and re-order the data blocks. The scheduler assigns a reception index to the corresponding scheduled reception and assigns reception buffers to received data blocks as a function of the assigned reception indexes identifying time slots scheduled for reception. A newly transmitted data block received in its scheduled time slot is assigned to the reception buffer corresponding to a new reception index. A re-transmitted data block received in a time slot later than its originally scheduled time slot is assigned to the reception buffer corresponding to a same reception index as its originally scheduled reception. |
| US08645782B2 |
Method and apparatus for correcting errors in a multiple subcarriers communication system using multiple antennas
A method for correcting errors in a multiple antenna system based on a plurality of sub-carriers and a transmitting/receiving apparatus supporting the same are disclosed. The method includes determining a phase shift based precoding matrix phase shifted at a predetermined phase angle, initially transmitting each sub-carrier symbol to a receiver in a packet unit by using the phase shift based precoding matrix, reconstructing the phase shift based precoding matrix to reduce a spatial multiplexing rate if a negative reception acknowledgement (NACK) is received from the receiver, and retransmitting the initially transmitted sub-carrier symbol by using the reconstructed phase shift based precoding matrix or by changing the phase shift based precoding matrix using offset information fed back from the receiver or random offset information. |
| US08645779B2 |
Scan testing of integrated circuits and on-chip modules
A method for scan testing an integrated circuit that includes a plurality of on-chip logic modules includes configuring the integrated circuit for module level scan testing and chip level scan testing by way of an external automatic test pattern generator (ATPG) tool. The ATPG tool generates first and second sets of test patterns for module level and chip level scan testing of the integrated circuit. The ATPG tool generates the second set of test patterns by excluding the design faults which have already been targeted during the module level scan testing, from the first set of test patterns and reduces the overall time required for scan testing the integrated circuit. |
| US08645777B2 |
Boundary scan chain for stacked memory
A boundary scan chain for stacked memory. An embodiment of a memory device includes a system element and a memory stack including one or more memory die layers, each memory die layer including input-output (I/O) cells and a boundary scan chain for the I/O cells. A boundary scan chain of a memory die layer includes a scan chain portion for each of the I/O cells, the scan chain portion for an I/O cell including a first scan logic multiplexer a scan logic latch, an input of the scan logic latch being coupled with an output of the first scan logic multiplexer, and a decoder to provide command signals to the boundary scan chain. |
| US08645774B2 |
Expedited memory drive self test
Expedited memory drive self test, including: determining, by a drive self test module, a base block size for testing a memory drive; determining, by a drive self test module, a block group size for testing a memory drive; determining, by the drive self test module, a percentage of the memory drive to test; and for each block group size of memory in the memory drive: testing for media defects, by the drive self test module, a number of blocks in a block group that corresponds to the percentage of the memory drive to test. |
| US08645771B2 |
Forward error correction with configurable latency
A method of performing forward error correction with configurable latency, where a configurable latency algorithm evaluates a target Bit Error Rate (BER) against an actual BER and adjusts the size of a configurable buffer such that the target BER may be achieved when utilizing the smallest buffer size possible. When errors are corrected without the utilization of each of the configurable buffer locations, the algorithm reduces the size of the buffer by y buffer locations; the algorithm may continue to successively reduce the size of said buffer until the minimum number of buffer locations are utilized to achieve the target BER. If the buffer locations have been reduced such that the buffer size is too small and the target BER cannot be achieved, the algorithm may increase the size of the buffer until the minimum number of buffer locations are utilized to achieve the target BER. |
| US08645770B2 |
Systems and methods for proactively refreshing nonvolatile memory
System and methods for proactively refreshing portions of a nonvolatile memory including a memory system that proactively refreshes a portion of nonvolatile memory based on data associated with the portion. The data may include the time elapsed since the portion was last refreshed, the number of times the portion has been cycled, and the average operating temperature of the nonvolatile memory. A portion of nonvolatile memory, when meeting certain criteria determined from the data, may be proactively refreshed during a downtime when the nonvolatile memory is not otherwise being accessed. |
| US08645767B2 |
Scalable I/O adapter function level error detection, isolation, and reporting
Embodiments of the invention relate to scalable input/output (I/O) function level error detection, isolation, and reporting. An error is detected in a communication initiated between a function and the system memory, the communication including an I/O request from an application. Future communication between the function and the system memory is prevented in response to the detecting. The application is notified that the error in communication occurred in response to the detecting. |
| US08645764B2 |
Diagnostic framework for use with application servers and virtual machines
Described herein are systems and methods for providing diagnostic information between an application server (e.g., a WebLogic server), and a virtual machine (VM) (e.g., a JRockit VM). In accordance with an embodiment, the system includes a diagnostic monitoring component adapted to obtain diagnostic data indicative of all available data on an application server, including diagnostic information from one or more application server components running on the application server, obtain diagnostic data from the virtual machine, and persists the diagnostic data obtained from the application server and the virtual machine into a diagnostic data image file. The system further includes a console that provides access to the diagnostic data persisted into the diagnostic image file. |
| US08645762B2 |
Queue freeze on protocol error
A method and apparatus for retrieving a state of a processor at a time at which failure is detected. More specifically, the detection of one or more protocol errors results in the halting of operations of one or more system elements, and the retrieving of the state of the processor at the time of the failure. |
| US08645761B2 |
Precise fault localization
Systems and methods for identifying expressions that are potential causes of program bugs are disclosed. A program and at least one input resulting in at least one passing test of the program can be received. Further, at least one plausible repair candidate expression in the program can be identified. In addition, the methods and systems can determine whether replacement of the at least one identified expression with at least one value, which is different from a value provided by the at least one identified expression, maintains the passage of the at least one passing test. Moreover, the at least one identified expression can be output when the replacement maintains the passage of the at least one passing test to enable a determination of a modification of the program that repairs a bug in the program. |
| US08645758B2 |
Determining page faulting behavior of a memory operation
Embodiments of the invention relate to page faulting of memory operations in a subject code block. An aspect of the invention concerns an apparatus comprising a component for identifying a first object node having a first dependency path and second object node having a second dependency path, and a component for calculating a numerical difference between a first addressing value and a second addressing value, where the first and second addressing values are respectively associated with the first and second dependency paths. The apparatus may include a dependency generator for ordering a subject order list of the subject code block in an object dependency non-page-faulting order when the numerical difference is equal to or less than an assigned memory page size. |
| US08645756B1 |
Systems and methods for remotely troubleshooting a software problem occurring on a computing device
A computer-implemented method to remotely troubleshoot a software problem occurring on a first device. A connection is established by a second device with the first device. The second device extracts a first set of information from the first device. The second device provides a user interface via a display in order to receive a second set of information. The second device transmits the first set of information and the second set of information to a third device. |
| US08645755B2 |
Enhanced error handling for self-virtualizing input/output device in logically-partitioned data processing system
Error handling is simplified for a self-virtualizing IO resource that utilizes a physical function adjunct partition for a physical function in the self-virtualizing IO resource to coordinate error recovery for the self-virtualizing IO resource, by restarting each virtual function adjunct partition associated with that physical function to avoid the need to coordinate error recovery within the logical partitions to which such virtual function adjunct partitions are assigned. |
| US08645754B1 |
Method and system for providing coordinated checkpointing to a group of independent computer applications
A method and system of checkpointing single process application groups and multi-process application groups. In an exemplary embodiment, the method may include creating at least one full checkpoint for each application in an application group, and creating at least one incremental application checkpoint for each application in the application group. Further, each of the at least one incremental application checkpoint may be automatically merged against a corresponding full application checkpoint. Further, checkpointing may be synchronized across all applications in the application group. In the exemplary embodiment, each application may use both fork( ) and exec( ) in any combination. |
| US08645753B2 |
Power system with hot-swap and the method thereof
The present disclosure discloses a power system with hot-swap with a buck converter. The power system comprises a front stage, a hot-swap stage and a load stage; wherein the hot-swap stage comprises: a buck converter having a switch operate at ON/OFF state to provide a desired output voltage to the load stage with low power loss and optimized thermal design. |