| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08641476B2 |
Coplanar alignment apparatus for rotary spindles
There are three flat-surfaced rotary workpiece abrasive lapping spindles that are spaced apart from each other in a circle and are attached to the flat surface of a granite lapping machine base. Flat-surfaced workpieces are attached to the flat rotary surfaces of the workpiece spindles. Flexible abrasive disks are attached to the annular abrading surface of a rotary platen that is positioned to be concentric with the three spaced workpiece spindles. The platen is moved where the disk abrasive surface contacts the workpieces that are attached to the workpiece spindles. Both the platen and the workpieces spindles are rotated at high speeds to flat lap the exposed surfaces of the workpieces. A laser alignment device having laser distance sensors is attached to one of the rotary workpiece spindles. These laser alignment distance sensors are used to co-planar align the top flat surfaces of all of the workpiece spindles. |
| US08641473B1 |
Custom motorcycle toys having interchangeable swing arms
The custom motorcycle toys having interchangeable swing arms includes a series of toy motorcycles in which the rear end includes removable swing arms that can be exchanged with interchangeable rear tires so as to further customize the motorcycle. The front tire and rear tire can both rotate to enable movement of the toy motorcycle. |
| US08641470B2 |
Systems and methods to communicate and control actions using light emitting diodes
In some embodiments, a signal of light may be emitted from an illumination source of a first transceiver. A second transceiver may detect a signal of light from the first transceiver that exceeds a threshold luminosity; and activate, in response to the detecting of the signal of light that exceeds the threshold luminosity, an illumination source of the second transceiver to illuminate. An intensity of the illumination source of the first transceiver may then be reduced in response to the activating of the illumination source of the second transceiver to illuminate. |
| US08641468B2 |
Manufacturing method for spark plug
A method of manufacturing a spark plug includes a joining step of joining a first member and a second member which constitute the spark plug. In the joining step, a first welding electrode in contact with the first member and a second welding electrode which has an elastically deformable intermediate portion and which is in contact with the second member are electrically connected through the first member and the second member, whereby the first member and the second member are joined together by resistance welding. |
| US08641467B2 |
Spark ignition device and ground electrode therefor and methods of construction thereof
A spark ignition device, ground electrode therefor, and methods of construction thereof are provided. The spark ignition device includes a generally annular ceramic insulator with a metal shell surrounding at least a portion of the ceramic insulator. A center electrode is received at least in part in the ceramic insulator and a ground electrode extends from the shell to a free end portion. A firing tip is attached adjacent the free end portion of the ground electrode to provide a spark gap between the center electrode and the firing tip. The free end portion is at least partially bounded by at least one “as laser cut” peripheral side extending adjacent the firing tip. |
| US08641463B2 |
Contra-rotating propeller marine propulsion device
Lubricant oil (45) serving as second lubricant oil is supplied into an outer intermediate shaft (11c) by a lubricant oil supply unit (50) and accumulated therein, and thereby the lubricant oil (45) is supplied to a contra-rotating front seal unit (37). Thus, by bringing the front side of the contra-rotating front seal unit (37) (seal ring (37b)) into a wet state by the lubricant oil (45), it is possible to reduce heat generation and it is possible to extend the life of the contra-rotating front seal unit (37). |
| US08641459B1 |
Power brick with actuator mechanism
An example power adaptor is provided. In one aspect, the power adaptor may include a brick and a cable. The brick may further an actuator mechanism configured to allow detachment and attachment of a removable outlet attachment. |
| US08641458B2 |
Connector having locking lance with lance beak part and locking projection
To provide a connector in which a lance beak part will not be broken, even though a large load is applied by a front holder. A locking lance is provided, at its distal end, with a lance beak pad which is adapted to be caught by a lock releasing jig for releasing lock of the locking lance with respect to a terminal, and a locking projection which is continued from the lance beak part and erected from a terminal end of the lance beak part. When a projected part is inserted into e deflection space in a state where the locking lance is deflected, a lower face of the projected part overrides an upper face of the lance beak part, and a distal end of the projected part comes into contact with a vertical face of the locking projection which is erected from the lance beak part. |
| US08641453B2 |
Memory module and method of manufacturing a memory module
A memory module may include a module substrate having a side portion. The side portion may be adapted or configured to be inserted into a socket of a main board. A plurality of connection pads may be arranged along the side portion. The connection pads may have a step portion of a first height from a surface of the side portion and a contact portion of a second height that is greater than the first height from the surface of the side portion. At least one semiconductor package may be mounted on the module substrate and electrically connected to the connection pads. |
| US08641452B2 |
Communication jack having an insulating element connecting a spring element and a spring end of a contact element
A communication jack which includes a housing with an aperture for receiving a communication plug, and a circuit board at least partially within the housing. The circuit board includes crosstalk compensation elements. A plurality of plug interface contacts are connected to the circuit board. At least one of the plurality of plug interface contacts includes a contact element layered with at least one spring element. |
| US08641447B2 |
Coaxial connector
A coaxial connector includes a center contact electrically connected to a conductor of a cable. The center contact extends along a contact axis oriented generally perpendicular to an axis of the conductor of the cable. An outer contact has a cavity and the center contact is disposed in the cavity. The outer contact has a separable interface end and a terminating end. The separable interface end and terminating end are oriented generally perpendicular to one another. A dielectric insert is received in the cavity. The dielectric insert has a bore that receives and holds the center contact. The dielectric insert has structural features extending axially along an exterior of the dielectric insert, with air gaps defined between the structural features. The structural features engage the outer contact to secure the dielectric insert in the cavity. |
| US08641445B2 |
Cable connector assembly with an improved light pipe
A cable connector assembly (100) comprises a mating member (3), a printed circuit board (2) with a LED (24), a cable (7) having a plurality of wires connected with the mating member, a light pipe (4) having a pair of protrusions (42) parallel to each other, and an insulative shell (1) enclosing the cable and the mating member. The protrusions are neighboring to the LED. The insulative shell is enclosing the printed circuit board, the cable and the mating member. Each protrusion has a leg portion (421) protruding forwards from a front end thereof, and the printed circuit board defines a pair of outlets (26) on opposite sides thereof to engage with the corresponding leg portions. |
| US08641444B2 |
Heat radiating connector
For an object of providing a connector which has improved heat radiating efficiency, the connector includes a terminal 2 including a wire connecting portion 21 which an electric wire is connected, and a connector housing 3 provided with a terminal receiving section 30 receiving the terminal 2. Heat radiating portions 45, 55 are provided at a position of the terminal receiving portion 30, at which the wire connecting portion 21 is covered. In the heat radiating portions 45, 55, a plurality of projections 49, 59 formed to project from the surface 4a, 5a of the terminal receiving section 30 is arranged at intervals to each other. |
| US08641443B1 |
Electrical power connector with handle
An improved electrical connector is disclosed for facilitating disconnection an electrical plug. A handle is pivotably mounted to the electrical plug. A distal end of the plug handle extends transversely and outwardly defining opposed arcuate finger receiving regions for accommodating adjacent fingers of the operator for enabling the operator grasp the plug handle to facilitating disconnection an electrical plug. The present invention is equally suitable for use with an electrical receptacle. |
| US08641442B2 |
Compact latching mechanism for a mid-power electrical connector
A latching mechanism for a mid-power electrical connector is compact, strong, easy to disengage, durable, and low in manufacturing cost. The basic system includes a plug housing and a receptacle housing, each molded from plastic as a single piece, and at least one simple, mainly flat, metal latching tab inserted into a side of the plug housing. During connection of the housings, the latching tabs flex inward as they enter channels in the receptacle housing, and then spring outward to engage with receptacle latching features. In embodiments, wedge-shaped inward plastic protrusions in the channels engage with holes in the latching tabs. Unlatching requires only pressing the latching tabs gently inward. In embodiments, plastic pressing tabs can be pressed inward with fingers to flex and release the latching tabs. In other embodiments, the latching tabs are inaccessible to fingers, and a tool is required to release the latching tabs. |
| US08641441B2 |
Connector
A connector includes a housing, a cavity formed in the housing, a terminal to which a cable is connected and which is inserted into the cavity from a rear end side of the housing, and a nut held at a front end portion of the housing, wherein the terminal has a plate-like connection portion extended in an insertion direction to the cavity and an insertion hole formed in the connection portion, and the connection portion, which is inserted into the cavity and protruded from a front end portion of the housing, is bent and arranged along a front end surface of the housing, whereby the insertion hole is communicated with an internal thread of the nut. |
| US08641425B2 |
System and method for correlating curricula
A system and method for correlating learning objectives, curriculum items or elements or competency expectations between multiple curricula, or between a curriculum and established national, industry or governmental standards, includes multiple steps. A first curriculum, including multiple curriculum items, is selected. A second curriculum or standard, containing multiple elements, is selected. A curriculum item from within the first curriculum is selected. A filter is applied to the elements of the second curriculum or standard to produce a visible display of a subset of elements from within the second curriculum. Individual elements, from within the subset of elements, are identified as correlating to the curriculum item. The individual elements that correlate to the curriculum item are tagged, or cross-walked, to create a link between the curricula. Such correlations may also extend to achievements of an individual student or to a set of students. |
| US08641421B2 |
Devices and related methods for teaching languages to young children
To help young children and other individuals learn a language while playing and having fun a novel card or device is presented that includes, on one side, a word in a first (e.g., non-English) language on its surface along with a pronunciation guide associated with the word and an image of the word, and on an opposite side a translation (e.g., into English) of the word along with a pronunciation guide associated with the word. The device may also include means to secure it to a physical object similar to that shown in the image. |
| US08641418B2 |
Titanium nano-scale etching on an implant surface
A method of forming an implant to be implanted into living bone is disclosed. The method comprises the act of roughening at least a portion of the implant surface to produce a microscale roughened surface. The method further comprises the act of immersing the microscale roughened surface into a solution containing hydrogen peroxide and a basic solution to produce a nanoscale roughened surface consisting of nanopitting superimposed on the microscale roughened surface. The nanoscale roughened surface has a property that promotes osseointegration. |
| US08641415B2 |
Method and apparatus for tooth crack detection by means of acoustic emission
In a method and apparatus for detecting a crack in a human tooth, especially one covered by a restoration, such as a crown, the approach is to stress the suspect tooth and, by means of acoustic emission techniques, analyze the characteristics of the resultant acoustic emission from the tooth. To aid the identification of a crack from the acoustic emission signal, a baseline may be obtained by performing this procedure at a time when the tooth is known not be cracked, e.g., when a restoration is placed on it. This baseline acoustic emission signature is recorded. This procedure is repeated at intervals. The subsequent measurements are compared with the baseline to identify changes that indicate the initiation and growth of a crack. The invention includes apparatus for implementing the method. The approach is to integrate the acoustic emission pulser and sensor into commercially available dental instruments, e.g., a tooth polisher and a water syringe. |
| US08641408B2 |
Device for stretching film sections in a monoaxial or biaxial manner
The invention relates to a device for stretching film sections in a monoaxial or biaxial manner, preferably by way of a tenter frame, for films made substantially of polymers, wherein a square or rectangular section of a such film is seized at 4 sides by at least two tenter hooks each, designed as regards improved stretching such that the upper tenter hook part (11) is mounted in an articulated fashion on a rotational axis located outside the film to be stretched, and specifically such that the lower, fixed tenter hook part (13) carries the joint, while the upper tenter hook part (11) is designed so as to pivot upwards and at least one cylinder (14) is disposed rotated by 90° for applying the tensioning power and thus applies the tensioning power to the upper pivotable tenter hook part (11). |
| US08641401B2 |
Combination scoop and mold press for dough fishing bait
A combination scoop and mold press includes two generally cup-shaped half-mold members, which engage one another at mold member edges in mirror-image alignment to form a generally enclosed mold. The half-mold members of the scoop and mold press are carried on opposite ends of a unitary piece of injection molded polymeric material, which has a live hinge joint equidistantly spaced between the mold members. Either of the half-mold members may be utilized to scoop out an appropriate mass of bait dough having at least the volume of the closed mold. At least one of the half-mold members is equipped with a notch or slit through which the shank of a fish hook, or the line which is tied to the fish hook, may pass. Finger pressure is used to bring the mold half-members together, compressing the bait dough around the hook. |
| US08641398B2 |
Automated method and system for making painted vehicle body panel skins and vehicle body panels, such as instrument panels, utilizing same
An automated method and system for making painted vehicle body panel skins and vehicle body panels, such as instrument panels, are provided wherein throughput and equipment utilization are greatly improved at a relatively low cost. The method includes transferring a mold having a mold surface from an entrance station to a paint station within a dispensing area. The method further includes applying paint on the mold surface to form a layer of paint on the mold surface at the paint station. The method still further includes spraying curable polyurethane elastomer on the painted surface at a spray station within the dispensing area. The paint and spray stations may be coincident. The method still further includes, after the step of spraying and while the polyurethane elastomer is uncured, transferring the mold with the paint and the uncured polyurethane elastomer from the spray station to at least one accumulator station in a curing area to allow the polyurethane elastomer to completely cure in the mold and form the skin. |
| US08641397B2 |
Spiral distributor, die head, blown film line, and method for manufacturing a blown film
A spiral distributor for a die head of a foil extrusion line has spiral channels provided with shortening sections in their backward area. As compared to a geometrical rule for a discontinuation of the spiral channels which is valid in a prior section of the spiral channels, this arrangement leads to a faster discontinuation of the spiral channels. The design of the backward area of the spiral channels does not affect the good overlaying effect of the front part of the spiral channels. As compared to the customary embodiment, the channels are thus equipped with a less profiled backward end which leads to a more cost-effective manufacture and to a lesser flow resistance. |
| US08641396B2 |
Spiral distributor, die head, blown film line, and method for manufacturing a blown film
Foil extrusion lines use spiral distributors for producing a melt which is as homogeneous as possible during operation. The spiral distributors are mostly available as cylindrical or conical axial spiral distributors or as radial spiral distributors. The spiral distributors have spiral channels that run in a multiple spiral arrangement so that rather flat horizontal edges are formed precisely in initial sections and vertical edges are formed between the beginning of spiral channels and transition sections of adjacent spiral channels. The melt can easily adhere there. To accelerate the melt in critical areas, the course or the cross-section of the channels or the surface are modified. |
| US08641395B2 |
Compressor
A system is provided for controlling the balance piston pressure in a screw compressor. The system can use the slide valve of the compressor as a valve to control the flow of fluid from a fluid source to the balance piston. When the slide valve prevents direct flow between the fluid source and the balance piston, an alternate path is used to provide fluid at a reduced pressure to the balance piston. The reduced pressure fluid is obtained by passing the fluid from the fluid source through an orifice to lower the fluid pressure. |
| US08641394B2 |
Compressor
A compressor is configured to compress a refrigerant and use a lubricating oil. The compressor includes a compression mechanism configured to compress the refrigerant, a driving shaft configured to rotate about a rotation axis in order to drive the compression mechanism, a slide bearing slidably supporting the driving shaft, a first surface fixed to the driving shaft and intersecting with a line arranged in parallel to the rotation axis, a second surface facially abutted to the first surface, and a recovery space formed in the compressor. The recovery space is configured and arranged to recover the lubricating oil leaking out of bottom ends of sliding surfaces of the slide bearing and the driving shaft. The first surface and the second surface respectively continue to surfaces forming the recovery space. |
| US08641389B2 |
Stacked labyrinth chambers for use with an electrical submersible pump
A labyrinth type seal section for use with an electrical submersible pump assembly having a guide tube with an axial bore to port wellbore fluid to a lower end of the seal section. Lubricating fluid fills substantially all of the seal section above an interface between the lubricating fluid and the wellbore fluid. The guide tube circumscribes a drive shaft that extends between a motor and a pump. The guide tube and shaft form an annulus filled with lubricating fluid that communicates to the well fluid and to the motor, so that pressure in the motor can be equalized to pressure of the ambient well fluid. |
| US08641387B2 |
Inflating pump with auxiliary knotting functions
An inflating pump with auxiliary knotting functions for filling up air balloons has a cylinder, piston, actuating shaft, operating handle and outlet nozzle. The piston is set slidably into the actuating space of the cylinder. The inner end of the actuating shaft is linked to the piston, and the outer end protruded from one end of the cylinder. The operating handle is linked to the outer end of the actuating shaft. The outlet nozzle is set to connect with the actuating space of the cylinder. An auxiliary knotting portion is set with a spacing to the outlet nozzle and has a bulge and an internal flange formed at end of the bulge for knotting purposes. After the air balloon is filled up with air, the user could rewind the opening of the air balloon for auxiliary knotting by taking the bulge and internal flange as the guiding structure. |
| US08641386B2 |
Method and device for pumping liquids using a pneumatic positive displacement pump
A method of pumping a liquid using at least one operating tank (2), a pneumatic positive pressure displacement pump (1), which is based on the fact that during pumping, inflow valve (4) closure is controlled through the introduction of a control gas into the operating tank (2) positive pressure displacement pump (1) at a pressure lower than the pressure of the compressed actuating gas and from the hydrostatic pressure at the egress of the outflow valve but higher than the hydrostatic pressure on the ingress into the inflow valve (4), which causes the inflow valve (4) to close. A device for pumping liquids comprising at least one operating tank (2) of a positive pressure displacement pump (1), to which leads a control gas conduit (10) with a control valve (11) mounted thereon, which is used to close off the inflow valve (4), and the lower section of the operating tank (2) has a narrow section in the form of a vertical cylinder (16). |
| US08641384B2 |
Solid state sump pump control
The present invention provides a sump pump control system. The system includes a mounting fixture fabricated from a corrosion resistant material, and an electrical control comprising solid state electrical components supported by the mounting fixture. The sump pump control system also includes a diving bell cover. The diving bell cover has an open bottom, and is dimensioned to cover the electrical components. The diving bell cover is releasably secured to a support surface of the mounting fixture. The electrical control controls the operation of a sump pump. Should water rise to a level of the electrical components due to failure of the sump pump or due to quickly rising water, the diving bell cover will prevent water from contacting the electrical components. A method of removing water from a subterranean vault is also provided herein. |
| US08641379B2 |
Hybrid ram air turbine
An example a ram air turbine assembly (RAT) is mounted to an airframe and provides both electric power and hydraulic pressure. A turbine drives a drive shaft about an axis transverse to rotation of the turbine. The drive shaft in turn drives both a generator and a hydraulic pump at a common speed. |
| US08641375B2 |
Ceiling recessed ventilating fan with illuminating device
Disclosed is a ceiling recessed ventilating fan with illuminating device, including a body, a blower disposed horizontally within the body and an illuminating device disposed inside the body. The illuminating device is disposed around an air inlet of the blower. The illuminating device is disposed within the body, and does not protrude from the surface of the ceiling. |
| US08641371B2 |
Turbine shroud
A turbine shroud (30) of a gas turbine engine comprises a plurality of arcuate shroud segments (31) combined into an annular configuration, each shroud segment including a main body (32) defining an inner circumferential surface opposing the tips of the turbine rotor blades (11a) at a small clearance and an engagement feature including an axial wall (33a, 34a) having a prescribed circumferential length and a prescribed axial length, the turbine casing including an axial slot (51, 52) extending coaxially around the center line of the engine and configured to receive the axially extending wall of each shroud segment. A clearance defined between each circumferential end part (E) of the axial wall and an opposing inner circumferential surface of the turbine casing is greater than that defined between a circumferentially middle part (M) of the axial wall and an opposing inner circumferential surface of the turbine casing under a cool condition of the engine. A radial temperature gradient that develops in each shroud segment when the engine is warmed causes a deformation of the shroud segment such that the clearance can be made substantially uniform over the entire circumference of the shroud segment and the cooling air leakage can be minimized while minimizing thermal stress that may be caused by the thermal expansion of the shroud segment. |
| US08641370B2 |
Locking device comprising a telescopic connecting rod equipped with return means
The present invention relates to a locking device (10) designed to fixedly attach a first element (9a) to a second element, comprising a locking member (12) intended to equip the first element, an additional locking element intended to equip the second element, and a control handle (13) connected to the locking member via transmission means, characterized in that the transmission means comprise a telescopic connecting rod (15) designed to oscillate freely between a minimum extension position and a maximum extension position, and means for returning the telescopic connecting rod to its position of maximum extension, said return means being placed in a prestressed state when the control handle is in the closure position. |
| US08641369B2 |
System and method for damping vibrations in a wind turbine
The invention relates to a wind turbine comprising a substantially tubular tower structure and one or more vibration damping systems. At least one of the one or more vibration damping systems include a plurality of bracing elements and a damping element. One of the bracing elements is connected to the tower structure. The bracing elements and damping element are linked in such a way that a local displacement of the tower structure causes an increased displacement of the damper along its longitudinal axis. The invention further provides a method of damping vibrations in a wind turbine tower using one or more toggle-brace vibration damping systems and a using a toggle-brace vibration damping system for damping vibrations in a wind turbine. |
| US08641368B1 |
Industrial turbine blade with platform cooling
A turbine rotor blade with a platform hot spot cooling circuit that includes a bracket occupying a space below the platform on the pressure side of the blade neck and forming a cooling air supply hole connected to the blade cooling air supply channel and opening into an impingement cavity located below a hot spot location on the pressure side platform surface. A number of film cooling holes are connected to the impingement cavity and open onto the platform surface to cool the hot spot location. |
| US08641365B2 |
Rotor of a gas turbine
A rotor of a thermal turbomachine, particularly a gas turbine, is provided. The rotor includes a plurality of individual rotor components that are held together by a tie-bold and combined into a unit. The tie-bolt is supported by the assembly of the surrounding rotor components including the tie-bolt and the rotor disks. A hollow shaft which is made up of two tubular sections and a support wheel further support the rotor. |
| US08641364B2 |
Blade for an impeller wheel
A paddle wheel rotatable about an axis and exposed to radial inward and crosswise water flow has a hub on the axis and about which the wheel is rotated in a rotation direction about the axis and a plurality of angularly spaced blades spaced radially outward from the hub, forming spaces through which water can flow, and each formed by a plurality of radially spaced arcuate elements each in turn having a radially outer end and a radially inner end. These elements are each concave between the respective ends toward the incoming water flow with the radial outer ends more widely spaced than radial inner ends such that each element forms an acute angle with the adjacent element or elements and the spaces between the blades narrow in a direction of flow of water through them. |
| US08641363B2 |
Turbocharger with integrated actuator
A turbocharger having a turbine with a wastegate, and a compressor including a compressor housing, a compressor wheel, and a wastegate actuator. The turbine wheel includes blades defining an inlet. The compressor housing has an inlet wall leading to the inlet, and a shroud wall surrounding the blades. The actuator includes a base that is integral with the inlet wall, and an electric motor that is attached to the base. The shroud wall forms a first port that is in direct fluid communication with the actuator chamber, and the inlet wall forms a second port that is in direct fluid communication with the actuator chamber. Air from the first port to passes through the actuator housing and out the second port. This airflow convectively cools the working components of the actuator, while the connection of the motor to the inlet wall conductively cools the motor. |
| US08641361B2 |
Airflow from a blower with one or more adjustable guide vanes that are affixed to the blower at one or more pivot points located in an outlet of the blower
Methods, apparatus, and products are disclosed for improving the airflow exiting a blower that has one or more adjustable guide vanes that are affixed to the blower at one or more pivot points located in an outlet of the blower that include: determining a rotational speed of an impeller in the blower and adjusting a position of at least one of the adjustable guide vanes in dependence upon the rotational speed of the impeller. |
| US08641359B2 |
Scooter with an integral lifting and loading system
A mobility scooter device comprising an electrically powered wheeled vehicle provided with a lifting unit for lifting or lowering the vehicle. The lifting unit comprises an extendable lifting arm having two end portions a first end portion that is connected to the vehicle and a second end portion coupled to a support base provided with wheels. The lifting unit can be wheeled to bring the lifted vehicle over a transportation platform for mounting the vehicle body on the platform. |
| US08641357B2 |
Track hoe attachment to load and unload pipe
A track hoe bucket attachment for purposes of loading and unloading pipe comprising two tines connected at one end by a pipe. The pipe has an opening that is capable of receiving the teeth of the track hoe bucket. The two tines are further connected by a support bar which has eyelets at its two ends. The eyelets of the support bar receive a chain that is connected to the track hoe to further secure the attachment to the track hoe. |
| US08641355B2 |
Truck cap remover and installer
An apparatus for removing and installing a truck cap, the apparatus is formed by a box member having an opening, the box member being adapted at one end to a truck hitch and the other to a sleeve. A mast is rotatably disposed in the sleeve. A boom having a first end and a second end is fixedly attached at a right angle at the first end to the mast. A first slideable member is slideably coupled to the boom at the second end of the boom. A spread arm is fixedly attached at a right angle to the first slideable member. At least two bumpers are disposed on the spread arm and one bumper on the boom. In use, the rod of a jack disposed within the box member engages the mast through the opening of the box member to raise or lower the mast. |
| US08641351B2 |
Robot and instruction method thereof
A robot control unit that turns off a holding unit for a plate member, while the plate member is placed on an end effector, and lower the end effector, by a predetermined distance, from an initial position higher than a preset temporary placing position toward the temporary placing position. Then the robot control unit switches the holding member, from an OFF state to an ON state, while the end effector is stopped, and determines whether the plate member is held by the holding unit, with a holding-state detection unit. When the plate member is held by the holding unit, the robot control unit turns off the holding unit while further lowering the end effector by the predetermined distance. When the plate member is not held by the holding unit, the robot control unit detects a position of the end effector at this point of time, as a normal placing position. |
| US08641350B2 |
Wafer boat assembly, loading apparatus comprising such a wafer boat assembly and method for loading a vertical furnace
A wafer boat assembly for use with a loading apparatus configured to insert the wafer boat assembly loaded with semiconductor substrates into a furnace. The wafer boat assembly includes a first wafer boat part comprising a base and a first cover part mounted on the base; and a second wafer boat part comprising a second cover part that is provided with receiving slots for holding a plurality of semiconductor substrates. The second cover part has an arcuate shape that extends from a first longitudinal edge to a second longitudinal edge. The first and second wafer boat parts are detachably connectable, such that they mate together to extend around an outer perimeter of a loaded substrate at a predetermined distance. |
| US08641349B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing lids with tear-off foil
In the area of manufacturing covers with tear-open foils, the cover blanks, or covers are always secured against an undesired take-off from the transport means during the transport and the processing. This allows a very high manufacturing cadence equally for light covers and particularly for aluminium covers. |
| US08641348B2 |
Apparatus for forming hardback book cover
A table (31) is located in a first position and a second position which is rotated at 90 degrees from the first position. A cover (27) is arranged on a top face of the table (31) and fixed to the table (31) by fixing means (32a, 32b). Cardboards are preliminarily attached to predetermined positions on a rear face of the cover (27), and an outer margin of a predetermined width is formed outside the cardboard. Folding units (35) are arranged on either side of the table (31), and guided by guide rails (34) for reciprocal linear movement in directions toward and away from the table (31). The folding units (35) are located in an outer margin folding position at which said folding units (35) engage with the cover (27) on the table (31) and fold the outer margin of the cover (27) so as to attach the outer margin to the cardboards, and a standby position at which the folding units (35) separate from the cover (27). A control unit controls the table (31) and the folding units (35). The folding units (35) are synchronized with each other in such a manner that the folding units (35) simultaneously fold the outer margin of the cover (27) each time the table (31) is located in the first and second positions. |
| US08641347B2 |
Compression limiting nut
A hollow fastening nut assembly including an upper head adapted to engage a wrench or other tightening tool and an integral co-axial, internally threaded lower section of reduced diameter adapted for insertion into an access opening in a fastened component. The lower section acts as a compression limiter. An optional annular disc spring may be disposed about the internally threaded lower section for engagement with the rear surface of the fastened component. A locking structure may be disposed at the exterior surface of the internally threaded lower section to engage the interior of the access opening to lock the nut assembly in place. |
| US08641339B2 |
Apparatus for railroad transportation of wind turbine blades
An apparatus (100) for transporting a wind turbine blade (10) on at least two railcars over a railway is provided. The apparatus includes a root end support (22) for supporting the root end (12) of the blade, a mid span support (28) for supporting the mid span (14) of the blade, and a tip displacement limiter (24) for restricting a tip end (16) of the blade from extending beyond a lateral transportation limit (30) imposed by the railroad. The tip displacement limiter exerts a force on the blade which is counter to a force exerted on the blade by the mid span support only when the railcars navigate a design basis curve (32) in the railway to cause a bending of the blade in order to avoid exceeding the lateral transportation limit. The apparatus is particularly useful for the transportation of extra-long or curved wind turbine blades. |
| US08641335B2 |
Apparatus for forming microscopic recesses on a cylindrical bore surface and method of forming the microscopic recesses on the cylindrical bore surface by using the apparatus
An apparatus for forming recesses on a circumferential surface that defines a cylindrical bore in a workpiece includes a tool holder disposed coaxially with the cylindrical bore; a form roller support retained on the tool holder; a form roller rotatably supported on the form roller support, the form roller including projections on an outer circumferential surface thereof which are configured to form the recesses on the circumferential surface that defines the cylindrical bore in the workpiece. A control assembly is configured to control the form roller support such that the form roller is allowed to be in press contact with the circumferential surface that defines the cylindrical bore in the workpiece at a press contact load of a predetermined value on the basis of a centrifugal force which is exerted on the form roller support and the form roller during rotation of the tool holder. |
| US08641333B2 |
Cabinet assembly bore indexing tool and method
A cabinet assembly bore indexing tool and method provides facilitated bore indexing and guided drilling, while an assembly method helps to make the tool almost foolproof while reducing overall cabinet construction time and raising cabinet quality. The tool uses approximate or nominal material thickness blocks referred to as drill bushing blocks and adjustable axial length spacer sleeves in a floating spacer assembly to locate the drilled bores at the nominal center of the horizontal members and correspondingly in the reciprocal location on the internal surface near the edge of the vertical members so that when assembled they go together in perfect alignment. The cabinet assembly bore indexing tool indexes from an edge or surface to ensure front exterior matching upon assembly of a resulting rectangular annular shaped member as the basic unit upon which cabinet construction is based. |
| US08641332B2 |
Process for machining pressure detection hole and apparatus for machining pressure detection hole
A pressure detection passage and a side edge of a pressure detection member are positioned for a tip of a stylus attached to a drilling device by holding the pressure detection member on a hand-operated stage and moving the pressure detection member in the X axis direction by a micrometer head of the hand-operated stage while checking an enlarged image picked up by a microscope and displayed on a monitor, and a personal computer stores positions of the side edge of the pressure detection member and the pressure detection passage which are measured by scales of the micrometer head. Subsequently, the stylus is exchanged for a drill and the drilling device is moved down by a micrometer head for moving up and down a slider, while moving in sequence in the X axis direction the hand-operated stage by operating the micrometer head of the hand-operated stage so as to reappear the position stored in the personal computer, thereby drilling in the pressure detection member pressure detection holes communicating with the respective pressure detection passages. Therefore, it is possible to improve the precision and ease of operation of drilling a pressure detection hole in a pressure detection member. |
| US08641329B2 |
Pneumatic transport zone exchange system and method
Provided herein is a system and method for providing inter-zone connections between first and second portions of a pneumatic tube system. The systems and methods (i.e., utilities) permit creating a direct pneumatic path between the first zone and the second zone. In this regard, air pressure or vacuum from a first zone may be utilized to effectuate transfer of a carrier through a portion or all of the second zone and/or to provide operating pressure or vacuum to the second zone. |
| US08641327B2 |
Methods and apparatus for protecting offshore structures
Protective structures for offshore installations and methods for using same are provided. The protective structure can include a body adapted to be disposed at least partially about a primary structure of an offshore installation, and a support system can be disposed on the body. One or more protrusions can be disposed about an outer surface of the body. The protrusions can have a first end adapted to break ice. The support system can be adapted to isolate the one or more bodies from the primary structure such that the one or more bodies can absorb at least a portion of ice generated vibrations. |
| US08641323B2 |
Method and apparatus for at sea pipe abandonment and recovery
A method of positioning on the sea floor, from a floating vessel, an unlaid end portion of a pipe that is being laid from its other end on the sea floor is disclosed. The method includes lowering the unlaid end portion of the pipe to a lowered position above the sea floor. Transfer of the load of the unlaid end portion of the pipe occurs from the lowering device to a line for suspending the unlaid end portion of the pipe. Lowering the line for suspending and the unlaid end portion of the pipe occurs. There is disclosed a corresponding method of recovery as well as associated apparatus. A method for effecting a subsea connection between one line and an object suspended below the surface of the sea by another line and associated apparatus are disclosed. |
| US08641319B2 |
Apparatus and method of compressibly securing a stacked assembly of creep-susceptible components
An apparatus and method compressibly secure together a plurality of components, wherein some of the components may include plastic or other materials susceptible to creep. The apparatus includes a plurality of stackable compression limiters configured to engage axially end to end in tandem and in some aspects to lockably engage. Each stackable compression limiter includes an elongated sleeve member configured to limit the maximum compressive force applied to its associated component, where different components in the stacked assembly may be configured for different maximum compressive forces. |
| US08641318B2 |
System and method for joining brittle material pieces
A system and method for joining together a pair of brittle material pieces, such as controlled expansion ceramic pieces, involves using a threaded plug joined to a first brittle material piece, to secure a threaded fastener passing through part of the second brittle material piece, thus joining together the brittle material pieces. The threaded plug may be inserted in a plug-receiving hole that may be substantially perpendicular to a fastener-receiving hole in the first brittle material piece. One or both of the plug and the plug-receiving hole may be conical, to facilitate fitting the plug into the plug-receiving hole. The plug may be secured to the first brittle piece by soldering. The system and method provides a secure way of threadedly joining together a pair of brittle material parts, without use of possibly contaminating adhesives, and without a need to put threads on the actual brittle material itself. |
| US08641314B2 |
Quick coupling for drive shaft
A quick coupling for a shaft includes a male coupling having a locking portion with a locking groove formed thereon. A female coupling includes a female body having an interior surface bounding a socket. A tapered port is formed on the female body and extending from the exterior surface to the interior surface thereof. The locking portion of the male coupling is received within the socket so that the tapered port is aligned with the locking groove. A ball bearing is disposed within the tapered port so that a portion of the ball bearing can project into the socket and into the locking groove. A locking sleeve is slidably mounted along the female body so as to cover and interact with the ball bearing. |
| US08641310B2 |
Replacement cartridge for a razor assembly
A replacement cartridge for a safety razor includes a dispensing head and a reservoir for a flowable shaving aid material. A removable shield is between the reservoir and the dispensing head and the shield interrupts fluid communication between channels of the reservoir and the dispensing head when the shield is in place. Fluid communication is permitted when the shield is removed. Removal of the shield is a onetime event. The shield can be a thermoplastic film. A razor cartridge can be disposed adjacent the dispensing head and the housing of the razor cartridge can be integrally formed with the housing of the dispensing head. |
| US08641309B2 |
Surface treating implement
A surface treating implement (10) according to the invention comprises a body (14) comprising a container receiver (36) and a nozzle assembly (26) comprising a fluid conduit fluidly (72) connected to the container receiver (36). At least one container (16) is selectively mounted to the container receiver (36) and contains a predetermined amount of a treating composition and has a dispensing opening (102) in fluid communication with the fluid conduit (72). A handle (12) is associated with the body (14). The nozzle assembly (26) is mounted to the body (14) for selective displacement a predetermined distance to release the treating composition from the container (16) through the fluid conduit (72) and onto a surface to be treated. |
| US08641305B2 |
Print control apparatus and method for interruption-handling of duplex printing
A print control apparatus having a decision unit, a print control unit, and a determination unit. The decision unit decides a print order for duplex printing on a continuous sheet. The print control unit causes the print unit to execute a continuous print of first face images on a first face and second face images on a second face after completion of the print on the first face in accordance with the decided print order. In a case where the determination unit determines that an interruption factor occurs before the completion of the print on the first face, the print control unit performs switches to a print on the second face and to cause the print unit to execute a print of any second face image that is predetermined to be arranged on the second face relative to any first face image already printed on the first face. |
| US08641304B2 |
Tape cassette
A tape cassette that includes a housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface and a pair of side surfaces, a tape that is a print medium housed in the housing, a tape exit that discharges, from the housing, the tape guided in the housing along a predetermined feed path, at least a part of the feed path extending parallel to the front surface, and a type indicator portion provided adjacent to the tape exit and in a specified area of the front surface on an upstream side of the tape exit in a feed direction of the tape, the type indicator portion indicating a type of the tape and including vertical information sections and a protrusion formed in at least one of the vertical information sections, the vertical information sections being strip-shaped sections extending along a direction orthogonal to the feed direction. |
| US08641302B2 |
Camera rotation mechanism and portable electronic apparatus therewith
The invention discloses a camera rotation mechanism and a portable electronic apparatus therewith. The camera rotation mechanism includes a rotatable carrier, a bearing structure, and a rotating mechanism, which are disposed in a casing. The rotatable carrier includes a carrier body and a rotatable shaft connected to the carrier body and bore by the bearing structure. A camera module is disposed on the carrier body such that a lens of the camera module is exposed through a lens hole of the casing. The rotating mechanism is connected to the rotatable shaft and includes a rotation operation part partially exposed through a slot hole of the casing and capable of being rotated to rotate the carrier body through the rotatable shaft. Therefore, a user can use the camera rotation mechanism to adjust the disposition angle of the lens, which solves the impossibility of adjusting a fixed camera in the prior art. |
| US08641300B2 |
Spliced optical cable assembly
A spliced optical cable assembly is reinforced at a spliced portion of coated optical fibers to have adequate strength. The spliced optical cable assembly includes: a pair of optical fiber cables in which high-strength fibers are aligned in the longitudinal direction around coated optical fibers. The outer circumference of the coated optical fibers being covered by sheaths. The spliced optical cable assembly further includes a connecting portion in which the pair of optical fiber cables are connected and the coated optical fibers extend from the sheaths. Glass fibers exposed from the coating of the coated optical fibers spliced to each other. The connected portion is covered and formed into an integral unit, together with the high-strength fibers exposed from the sheaths, by a reinforcing tube placed over the optical fiber cables and caused to contract so that both ends of the reinforcing tube engage the sheaths of the respective optical fiber cables. |
| US08641297B2 |
Receptacle structure for optical sub-assembly for transceivers
A receptacle structure for optical sub-assembly for transceivers includes: a receiving tube; a base seat coaxially disposed in the receiving tube, the base seat having a first fiber stub receiving hole and a second fiber stub oblique receiving hole; a sleeve coaxially disposed in the base seat and the receiving tube; a first fiber stub coaxially disposed in the first fiber stub receiving hole of the base seat and the receiving tube; a second fiber stub connected in the second fiber stub oblique receiving hole of the base seat; and an optical fiber installed between the first and second fiber stubs. The second fiber stub is disposed in the base seat in an inclined state, whereby the coupling loss is reduced and the optical coupling efficiency is increased. |
| US08641296B2 |
Optical path change member and holding member body
Provided is an optical path change member including a holding member body formed of a transparent material. The holding member body includes: at least two rows of optical-fiber insertion holes which hold optical fibers inserted therein, such that the optical axes of the optical fibers are inclined with respect to an optical axis of the optical device, and a reflective inner surface which totally internally reflects light incident from the optical-fiber insertion holes to a surface of the holding member body configured to face an optical device on a board. |
| US08641295B2 |
Optical fiber connector, optical fiber connector assembling method, fusion-spliced portion reinforcing method, pin clamp, cap-attached optical fiber connector, optical fiber connector cap, optical fiber connector assembling tool, and optical fiber connector assembling set
An optical fiber connector includes a ferrule, an inserted optical fiber, an external optical fiber, and a pair of reinforcing members that pinches and reinforces a fusion-spliced portion of the other end portion of the inserted optical fiber and the front end portion of the external optical fiber. The reinforcing members include adhesion layer on the inner surface thereof which comes in contact with the other end portion of the inserted optical fiber and the front end portion of the external optical fiber. The adhesion layer is depressed at the position where the inserted optical fiber and the external optical fiber come in contact with each other so as to closely adhere to the outer circumferential surfaces of the optical fibers in the fusion-spliced portion. |
| US08641290B2 |
Tapered roller bearing
A tapered roller bearing according to the present invention, in which the rolling surface of a tapered roller and raceway surfaces of internal and outer rings undergoes crowning. The total crowning amount of that crowning and the crowning amount of each raceway surface and rolling surface are set to preferred values. This allows reduction of the rolling friction of the internal and outer rings and the tapered roller, and the rotation torque of the tapered roller bearing according to the present invention. |
| US08641287B2 |
Wheel bearing apparatus incorporated with a rotational speed detecting apparatus
A wheel bearing apparatus incorporating a rotational speed detecting apparatus has an outer member, an inner member and double row rolling elements contained between inner and outer raceway surfaces of the inner and outer members. A pulser ring is fit onto the outer circumference of the inner ring. A cylindrical sensor cap is fit into the inner circumference of the inner-side end of the outer member. A mounting portion axially projects from a radially outer portion of the sensor cap. An inserting bore is formed in the mounting portion so that it axially extends at a position corresponding to the pulser ring. A sensor unit is mounted in the inserting bore. A rotational speed sensor is embedded in the sensor unit to oppose the pulser ring, via a predetermined axial air gap. The position of a gate of a mold is set on the mounting portion of the sensor cap. |
| US08641286B2 |
Composite bearing member, manufacturing method of composite bearing member, bearing device and rotary electrical machine
A composite bearing member 10 includes: a bearing sliding material 20 whose surface contacts a rotating portion; a bearing base material 30 made of a material different from a material constituting the bearing sliding material 20; and a joining layer 40 joining the bearing sliding material 20 and the bearing base material 30. Further, the bearing sliding material 20 has a sliding layer 50 sliding the rotating portion on a surface. Furthermore, the bearing sliding material 20 has, between the sliding layer 50 and the joining layer 40, a composition graded layer 60 which dispersedly contains the same metal material as a metal material constituting the joining layer 40 and in which a content of the metal material is increased toward the joining layer 40. |
| US08641284B2 |
Bearing assemblies, and bearing apparatuses and motor assemblies using same
Bearing assemblies and apparatuses are disclosed. Such bearing assemblies may be employed in bearing apparatuses for use in downhole motors of a subterranean drilling system or other mechanical systems. In an embodiment of the present invention, a bearing assembly includes a plurality of bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each bearing element includes a superhard bearing surface. The plurality of bearing elements defines a plurality of gaps. Each gap is formed between circumferentially-adjacent bearing elements of the plurality of bearing elements. Further embodiments of the present invention include bearing apparatuses and downhole motors that may utilize any of the disclosed bearing assemblies. |
| US08641283B2 |
Hydrodynamic bearing apparatus and spindle motor having the same
There is provided a hydrodynamic bearing apparatus, including: a shaft; and a sleeve rotatably supporting the shaft, wherein at least one of an outer surface of the shaft and an inner surface of the sleeve includes upper and lower hydrodynamic grooves generating hydrodynamic fluid pressure while the shaft rotates, and at least one of the upper and lower hydrodynamic grooves has a depth of a lower part thereof greater than that of an upper part thereof. |
| US08641281B1 |
Implementing low profile frictional slide mechanism
A method and structures are provided for implementing a low profile sliding drawer used in information technology equipment (ITE). A low-profile slide mechanism having a substantially horizontal cross section telescopes outwardly a predefined length and includes a plurality of rail sections that are interconnected with shouldered T pins, with sliding of the rail sections occurring on the T pin shoulders spacing apart the rail sections from an associated base pan and drawer. Each of the rail sections is movable a set amount of an overall length of the slide mechanism. The low-profile slide mechanism is friction based and includes different predefined selected materials forming the shouldered T pins and the rail sections to prevent galling and having predefined rigidity and strength. |
| US08641279B2 |
Packaging bag with fastener
It is aimed to smoothly perform engagement and disengagement of a fastener of a packaging bag and easily take out an inner content by a desired amount. For these purposes, in a packaging bag 1 with a fastener 20 in which a male fastener element and a female fastener element are attached to inner surfaces of opposing flat surface portions 2a and an opening is opened or closed by engaging or disengaging both the fastener elements, pick-up tabs 40 are provided so as to project outward at a portion corresponding to a mounting portion of the fastener 20, or near the portion. The fastener is formed to be asymmetric with respect to the center thereof so that one side largely protruded is attached so as to be directed inward of the packaging bag. |
| US08641277B2 |
Sliding counterbalanced C-arm positioning devices and methods for using such devices
Systems and methods for making and using sliding counterbalanced C-arm positioning devices are described. In such systems and methods, each C-arm positioning device includes a C-arm X-ray device, a linear bearing rail, a linear bearing block, and a counterbalance mechanism. Generally, the C-arm is connected to the linear bearing block, which, in turn, is slidably coupled to the bearing rail to allow the bearing block and C-arm to slide up and down on the rail. The counterbalance mechanism can apply a force to the bearing block to counterbalance the weight of the C-arm and the bearing block. Thus, the described C-arm positioning device can allow a user to easily raise or lower the C-arm with relatively little effort. While some implementations of the C-arm positioning device are connected to mobile support structure, other implementations of the C-arm positioning device are mounted to a fixed support structure. Other implementations are also described. |
| US08641276B2 |
Sealed sensor systems, apparatuses and methods
A sensor that is at least partially covered by a sheath, and a positioning arm that is electrically coupled to the sensor, and arranged outside of the sheath, such that a hygienic barrier is formed around the sensor. The sensor is used for filmless dental radiography and the positioning arm enables positioning of the sensor in a patient's mouth. The positioning arm includes a contact that pierces the sheath and establishes an electrical connection with the sensor when the positioning arm is coupled to the sensor. |
| US08641275B2 |
Universal dental X-ray sensor holder
A dental x-ray sensor holder includes at least two clamping faces wherein at least one of the faces includes at least one and preferably a plurality of resiliently deformable gripping protrusions. The clamping faces are positioned in a moveable, spaced opposing relation, such that the faces may be physically moved together to physically impinge the x-ray sensor therebetween. |
| US08641272B1 |
System for performing dilatometer tests on the seafloor
System for performing dilatometer tests on the seafloor including a unit to rest on the seafloor, including: a pushing rod including at its lower end a dilatometer blade, and a driver device to drive the pushing rod, and cause the dilatometer blade to penetrate into the seafloor and bring the dilatometer into a plurality of predetermined test depths; the driver device including: a clamping member to clamp the pushing rod, at least a pushing member for pushing down to the seafloor the clamping member when the clamping member is clamping the pushing rod, causing the rod and dilatometer blade to penetrate into the seafloor, and for pushing up the clamping member when the clamping member is not clamping the pushing rod, wherein the pushing member moves up and down the clamping member, and moves in an intermittent way the dilatometer between a predetermined test depth and the subsequent one. |
| US08641271B2 |
Method for testing heat pipes
A method for testing heat pipes includes the following steps. A plurality of bar-shaped heat pipes having the same size is provided, and the heat pipes are deformed. The deformed heat pipes are placed in a temperature regulator, such that a temperature of the heat pipes is periodically changed between a first temperature and a second temperature. The heat pipes are then taken out of the temperature regulator. One end of each heat pipe is maintained at a third temperature by a thermostatic device, and a heat pipe temperature difference of two opposite ends of the heat pipe is measured. The heat pipes having the heat pipe temperature difference greater than a standard temperature difference in the heat pipes are marked. |
| US08641269B2 |
Timepiece mechanism and module comprising such a mechanism
A mechanism and a timepiece module independent of the bottom plate of a movement, of a simple and compact design. The timepiece mechanism includes a control stem (3) mounted in a pivoting manner and movable between at least two axial positions, a control pinion (11; 13) mounted so as to rotate with the control stem (3), and at least one actuating member (15, 24; 30) configured to engage with the control pinion (11; 13) when the control stem is occupying one of the axial positions. The control pinion (11; 13) is also coupled translationally to the control stem (3) when the latter moves from one to the other of the two positions. The module includes a case (2) containing the mechanism. |
| US08641263B2 |
Method and apparatus for continuous processing of whole muscle meat products
A continuous method and system for processing whole muscle meat employs a mixer housing having a pair of parallel rotating shafts located therein. The parallel rotating shafts have a plurality of mixing elements thereon, such as frustoconical elements, blocking elements, or ellipsoid elements. The mixer housing has an input end to receive the meat ingredients, such as meat pieces, salt solution, water, preservatives, and other additives such as spices. The mixer housing has an output, which is separated a distance from the input, such that the output discharges the whole muscle meat product. As the ingredients including the meat move from the input to the output along the shafts, the mixing elements work the meat with the other ingredients thereby increasing ingredient incorporation including diffusion of the salt solution into the whole muscle meat pieces. |
| US08641262B2 |
Building material mixer
The present invention relates to a building material mixer having a mixer drum which can be rotationally driven by a mixer drive, with the mixer drum being rotatably supported by the mixer drive at a mixer frame part, in particular a traveling gear frame part, at one of its end face ends and with the mixer drive having a drive part, in particular a hydraulic motor, and a drive transmission connected to the mixer drum. In accordance with the invention, the building material mixer is characterized in that the mixer drive is movably supported by movable bearing means at the mixer frame part allowing tilting movements; and in that the mixer drum is fastened to the transmission housing of the drive transmission. |
| US08641260B2 |
Complex circuit board and fabrication method thereof
A complex circuit board including a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) for providing driving signals for light sources is disclosed. The PCBA includes a supporting portion and a connecting portion. The light sources are disposed above the supporting portion. The connection portion contacts electrically with a contacting portion of the FPC. The contacting portion of the FPC has a fixing hole. The connecting portion of the PCBA has a fixing portion. Moreover, the FPC has two or more than two first bend portions on the contacting portion. The fixing portion of the PCBA is inserted into the fixing hole of the FPC to complete the complex circuit board without extra attachment units. Therefore, the assembly procedure is simplified to increase throughput and the cost is reduced. |
| US08641256B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device, composite light emitting device with arrangement of semiconductor light emitting devices, and planar light source using composite light emitting device
A semiconductor light emitting device includes a recess portion defined by a pair of opposing first side wall portions and a pair of opposing second side wall portions extending between the first side wall portions and shorter than the first side wall portions. Light emitting elements are arranged on the bottom surface of the recess portion in a direction of the first side wall portions. The light emitting elements include a first light emitting element for emitting light of a first color and a second light emitting element for emitting light of a second color different from the first color and placed closest to the second side wall portion among the light emitting elements. A resin portion containing a phosphor for wavelength-converting a part of the light of the second color into a complementary color of the light of the second color is filled into the recess portion. |
| US08641253B2 |
Light guide device and backlight module
The backlight module comprises a light guide device, pluralities of light sources and at least one optical film. The light guide device further contains body, first microstructures, second microstructures, flat portions and diffusive beads. The first microstructures are disposed on reflective surface. A first point and a second point are disposed at two ends of the first microstructure with a first width (P1). Each flat portion has a gap (G) defined between two adjacent first microstructures. The second microstructure connects to the body by means of two edge portions. Two edge portions have a second width (P2) defined on the incident surface; wherein a first depth (H1) is defined to be the distance between the crossing point of two edge portions away from the incident surface. Pluralities of diffusive beads have weight Mb. The body has weight Mt. Then the equations of H 1 P 2 * P 1 G ≤ 0.288 and H 1 P 2 * P 1 G * M t M b ≤ 96.0 are satisfied. |
| US08641252B2 |
Planar light-emitting device
A planar light-emitting device includes a light source element and a light guide plate. The light source element is configured to emit light. The light guide plate has a housing hole, a light-emitting face and a light reflecting face. The housing hole houses the light source element. The light reflecting face is formed along a side end portion of the light guide plate. The light reflecting face has an inclined portion that is located next to the housing hole in a first direction of the light guide plate and a flat portion that is located next to the inclined portion in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. The inclined portion has an inclination angle with respect to the flat portion such that the light reflected on the inclined portion is prevented from returning the housing hole. |
| US08641249B2 |
Illuminating magnifying lens capable of focusing its light on objects
An illuminating magnifying lens capable of focusing its light on objects in accordance with the present invention comprises a frame connected to a handle, and in a part of the handle jointing to the frame is defined an assembling groove in which being assembled a lamp, a battery and a light guiding member. When the magnifying lens is used to magnify the object, the projecting light of the lamp is restricted by the light guiding member and can only be emitted out from the open end of the guiding hole, plus there is projecting angle between the guiding hole and the lens element, therefore, the light of the lamp will be directed toward the object without projecting onto the lens element, thus preventing dazzling reflection. |
| US08641247B2 |
Backlight module and ventilation component thereof
The present invention discloses a backlight module and a ventilation component thereof, and a back plate of the backlight module is provided with a plurality of the ventilation components. The ventilation component comprises: a tubular body, a ventilating filter, a filter washer, and a fixing ring. The tubular body is hollow, and the ventilating filter is carried in the tubular body. The ventilating filter can communicate the internal air with the external air of the backlight module circulate to effectively descend the temperature of the internal air, so that the thermal expansion of the light guide plate in the backlight module can be decreased to prevent from generating an optical problem. |
| US08641245B2 |
Radiating device for lamp and LED lamp
A radiating device for a lamp and an LED lamp including the radiating device are provided. The LED lamp includes an LED light source module (2), a light transmission protective cover (3) and the radiating device for the lamp. The LED light source module (2) includes several LEDs (21) and a radiating circuit substrate (22). The radiating device for the lamp includes a radiating base plate (1). Several radiating rods (11) are arranged at the back side of the radiating base plate (1). The LED light source module (2) is fixedly connected with the radiating base plate (1), and heat is conducted from the LED light source module to the radiating base plate (1) through the radiating circuit substrate (22). The light transmission protective cover (3) is hermetically connected with the radiating base plate (1). |
| US08641244B2 |
Lighting apparatus
A lighting apparatus is disclosed. The lighting apparatus is configured such that a light-emitting unit is cooled through movement of air ionized by corona discharge, rather than using a fan that generates noise, resulting in reduced operational noise. |
| US08641240B2 |
Electronic device having organic light emitting diode display
An electronic device improves an impact-resistance characteristic of an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. The electronic device includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display including a panel assembly for forming an organic light emitting element, and a housing including a housing main body for receiving the organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. The housing includes a housing main body including a first space for receiving the panel assembly and a second space for receiving a printed circuit board, an upper cover, and a lower cover. The housing main body includes a bottom formed to distinguish a first space and a second space in the housing, and also includes a bent unit on an edge, and a side wall in which the bent unit is buried to be combined with the edge of the bottom. |
| US08641232B2 |
Light emitting device and illumination apparatus
According to one embodiment, a light emitting device includes: a substrate a back face side of which is disposed on a mounting member; a plurality of light emitting elements mounted on a surface side of the substrate; and a power supply terminal provided on the surface side of the substrate and electrically connected to the light emitting elements. The power supply terminal is connected to electrical connecting units by elastic pressing force directed from the surface side of the substrate to the mounting member side. A mechanical fixing unit has a pressing portion brought into contact with the surface side of the substrate. The mechanical fixing units fix the substrate to the mounting member with use of elastic pressing force of the pressing portions directed from the surface side of the substrate to the mounting member side. |
| US08641231B2 |
Light diffusion lenses and lighting fixtures having the same
A lighting fixture includes: a base; a plurality of optical sources attached on an upper surface of the base to emit light; a heat spreader attached to the base to radiate heat emitted from the plurality of optical sources; and a light diffusion lens disposed on the upper surface of the plurality of optical sources to refract light emitted from the plurality of optical sources and to increase an irradiation angle of light. In the lighting fixture, an irradiation angle of light emitted from an optical source is close to that of a general electric-light bulb and thus a light distribution characteristic of the lighting fixture may be improved. |
| US08641230B1 |
Zoom lens system for LED-based spotlight
Zoom lens systems for LED-based spotlights include a base lens and a disk lens. The base lens can be a TIR lens with convex microlenses on a front surface. The disk lens can be generally planar. A rear surface of the disk lens can have concave microlenses complementary to the microlenses on the front surface of the base lens. A front surface of the disk lens can have convex microlenses with a different geometry from the microlenses on the front surface of the base lens. The disk lens can be movable relative to the base lens from a narrow-angle position in which a rear surface of the disk lens is in contact with a front surface of the base lens to a wide-angle position in which the rear surface of the disk lens is separated from the front surface of the base lens. |
| US08641224B1 |
Low profile table lamp
A low profile table lamp having a replaceable power supply and circuitry to power at least one light is provided. A bottom housing has a central cylinder with threads internally and an exterior mounting surface for a ring of lights. The bottom housing contains the battery, circuitry, light element and a switch. Included is a top cover having a post with threads externally to mate with the central cylinder inclined ridges and a top crown. Attached to the top cover is a light diffusion dish having a central orifice with a diameter greater than the outside diameter of the central cylinder for receiving the post. The crown has a surface of a greater size than the light diffusion dish covering the central orifice. The post is removably joined from above to the central cylinder for accessing the battery. |
| US08641223B2 |
Flashing screwing structure
A flashlight screwing structure, applicable to a flashlight having a non-cylindrical gripping segment and a screwing unit for changing a battery quickly and conveniently, includes: a thread disposed on an inner surface at a rear end of the flashlight; a connecting unit inserted into the rear end of the flashlight and having a hole centrally formed in the connecting unit; and a thread segment extending inward from an outer cover capable of screwing so as to mesh with the internal thread at the rear end of the flashlight. Therefore, changing the battery of the non-cylindrical flashlight entails rotating and withdrawing the outer cover and the connecting unit, changing the battery, restoring the connecting unit to a position thereof, and rotating the outer cover to fix the outer cover to the rear end of the flashlight. |
| US08641222B2 |
Haircutting shears with illuminated level
The haircutting shears with illuminated level are adapted to aid a hairstylist in performing precise haircutting procedures. The shears are provided with a spirit level encased in an illuminated housing, which is disposed on the outer surface of one of the blades of the shears. The illuminated spirit level allows the stylist to quickly view the level to determine if the cutting angles are being executed in a desired manner. An integrated circuit device is housed in the shears and connected to the level for obtaining and storing data therefrom. A USB port is provided for connecting the integrated circuit device to a processor or other display device. The USB port also provides a charging means for the illuminating device. |
| US08641221B2 |
Illuminated eyeglasses
An eyewear lighting mechanism includes a housing having a horizontal array of lights, the horizontal array of lights being mounted to pivot vertically. The housing contains a power source for the horizontal array of lights. The housing is connected to a base to allow the housing and the horizontal array of lights to pivot horizontally. |
| US08641218B2 |
Backlight module and lamp socket structure thereof
The present invention provides a backlight module and a lamp socket structure thereof. The lamp socket uses a conductive sleeve to receive and electrically connect to a lead wire of a backlight lamp, and the conductive sleeve is extended downward to form two elastic plug plates for connecting to two elastic receptacle plates of a conductive receptacle. Then, the conductive receptacle is further connected to an insulation base. The design of the present invention can efficiently avoid the lamp breakage problem due to vibrations of lead wires, so as to surely increase the stability of mounting lamps and the reliability of electrically connecting to the lamps. |
| US08641216B2 |
Backlight module and display apparatus
The present invention provides a backlight module and a display apparatus. The display apparatus comprises the backlight module and a display panel. The backlight module comprises a plurality of lamps; and a ground bar disposed at one side of the lamps, wherein low-voltage sides of the lamps are electrically connected to the ground bar, and the ground bar has a horizontal supporting plane and an alignment plane, and there is a predetermined angle between the horizontal supporting plane and the alignment plane, the horizontal supporting plane is parallel to the lamps, and the low-voltage sides of the lamps are supported on the horizontal supporting plane and abut against the alignment plane. The present invention can improve the assembly accuracy of the backlight module. |
| US08641215B2 |
Display device with switchable viewing angle and backlight module thereof
A display device with switchable viewing includes a backlight module and a display panel. The backlight module includes a light guide plate, first optical structures, a reflector, a first light source, and a second light source. The light guide plate includes a bottom surface, a light exit surface, a first light incident surface, and a second light incident surface. The display panel is disposed on the light exit surface. The first optical structures are disposed on the bottom surface and each includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The angle between the first inclined surface and the bottom surface is smaller than that between the second inclined surface and the bottom surface. Lights from the first light source and the second light source enter the light guide plate from the first light incident surface and the second light incident surface, respectively. After entering the light guide plate, the lights can be reflected by the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface, or be refracted by the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface to the underlying reflector and reflected by the reflector back to the light guide plate from the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface. Based on such a structure, by controlling the on/off state of the first light source and the second light source, the viewing angle of the display device is switchable. |
| US08641213B2 |
Mirror
There is provided a high-performance mirror which is capable of being varied between a plane mirror and a concave mirror. The mirror comprises a base (1), a mirror holder (2), a mirror surface sheet (12) and a back sheet (13) both capable of varying their curvature and retained in a spaced-apart relation by the mirror holder (2) to define an air-tight space between the sheets, the back sheet (13) being deformed from its center to reduce the pressure in the space, the mirror surface sheet being deformed into a concave spherical surface by a difference between the reduced pressure and the atmospheric pressure thereby to vary the curvature thereof. |
| US08641202B2 |
Projection display device
A projection display device includes: a light modulator for modulating light from a light source; a polarizer disposed at a position facing the light modulator; a cooling section for allowing an air to flow in a space between the light modulator and the polarizer; and an air deflector for deflecting the air flowing in the space between the light modulator and the polarizer toward the polarizer. |
| US08641190B2 |
Glasses with safety device and three-dimensional glasses with safety device
A pair of the 3D glasses having safety device comprises a glasses frame and a pair of temples pivotally mounted on the glasses frame. Each of the pair of temples comprises a joint extreme having a pivot seat with an axle bore and an aperture connecting to the axle bore. The pair of temples is capable of being dislocated from the glasses frame. |
| US08641189B2 |
Eyewear with extendable protective element
Eyewear comprising a lens frame, at least one earpiece, and at least one extension element is disclosed. The extension element is moveable between a retracted position, wherein the element is partially or completely hidden behind the eyepiece, and an extended position, wherein the element is positioned below the earpiece. The earpiece may include a recess for receiving the extension element in a nested relationship when the extension element is in the retracted position. |
| US08641188B2 |
Eyewear frames with magnetic lens attachments
The present invention illustrates various methods of attaching a pair of eyeglass lenses or a lens shield to an eyeglass frame using magnets or magnetically attractive material. The magnetic attachment methods are beneficial because they allow the user to have interchangeable lenses or shields for indoor and outdoor use, enhancing their visual acuity during work or play. The lenses may be tinted, prescription, protective eyewear, or plano. The magnetic lenses are convenient and user friendly, allowing intuitive, tool-less interchangeability with no need to twist or stress the frame. These methods of attachment require no specific instructions or tools when the user replaces lenses. |
| US08641187B2 |
Rotary glasses
A pair of rotary glasses comprising a lens, a glasses leg, and a pivot element. The support portion includes a second pivot portion corresponding to the first pivotal transverse through hole. The pivot element is passed through the first pivotal transverse through hole and the second pivot portion to pivotally couple each glasses leg. With this structural design, a user can longitudinally rotate the support portion by using the pivot element as an axis towards or away from the upper edge of the lens or the glasses frame so that the folding portion of the glasses leg and the lens or the glasses frame can support the rotary glasses on a disposing surface securely. Therefore, the rotary glasses will not lose balance or topple over by a slight external force so as to prevent the lens or the glasses frame from damage. |
| US08641185B2 |
Printing device and printing method
To prevent conveyance defects due to kicking, a printing device includes a conveyance roller for conveying a medium in a conveyance direction; a guide for supporting the medium on a top surface of the guide on an upstream side in the conveyance direction from the conveyance roller; and a head for ejecting ink and printing on the medium on a downstream side in the conveyance direction from the conveyance roller; wherein the top surface of the guide is positioned higher than a line tangent to the conveyance roller at a position of contact between the conveyance roller and the medium; and an end part of the guide on the downstream side in the conveyance direction has a smaller thickness in the direction in which the medium is supported than on the upstream side of the end part in the conveyance direction. |
| US08641180B2 |
Ink jet recording method and recorded matter
An ink jet recording method includes discharging droplets of an aqueous ink composition containing a coloring agent onto a non- or low-ink-absorbent recording medium as a first process and discharging droplets of a clear ink composition containing glycol ether at a content ratio in the range of 3 mass % to 10 mass %, inclusive, and a resin component but containing no coloring agent onto the recording medium as a second process. The first and second processes are performed in a single operation, and the droplets of the aqueous ink composition discharged in the single operation and those of the clear ink composition discharged in the same operation come into contact on the recording medium. |
| US08641176B2 |
Pressure-regulating valve and liquid droplet ejection apparatus
A pressure-regulating valve for opening and closing, based on atmospheric pressure, a valve body provided to a communication flow passage via which a primary chamber and a secondary chamber communicate inside a valve housing, with the aid of a pressure-receiving membrane that constitutes one surface of the secondary chamber, for regulating the pressure of a liquid fed to the primary chamber via an inflow port, and for feeding the liquid from the secondary chamber via an outflow port; the pressure-regulating valve wherein a cover is provided for allowing action of the pressure-receiving membrane and for covering the pressure-receiving membrane; and the cover has light-blocking properties. |
| US08641175B2 |
Variable drop volume continuous liquid jet printing
A liquid jet includes a fundamental period of jet break off. A print period is defined as N times the fundamental period of jet break off where N is an integer greater than 1. Input image data is provided having M levels per input image pixel including a non-print level where M is an integer and 2 |
| US08641174B2 |
Liquid ejection head, liquid ejection device
A liquid ejection head including a piezoelectric element having a piezoelectric layer and electrodes The piezoelectric layer is 3 μm or less in thickness. The piezoelectric layer is made of a piezoelectric material including bismuth manganate ferrate and barium titanate. The piezoelectric layer is preferentially oriented with the (110) plane. |
| US08641163B2 |
Temperature leveling roller and pressure nip assembly
An imaging device includes a substantially continuous web of media, and a web transport system configured to transport the continuous web along a web path. A print station is positioned along the web path and is configured to apply ink to the continuous web. A temperature leveling ink spreader is disposed along the web path downstream from the print station. The temperature leveling ink spreader includes a leveler roller including a heater configured to generate thermal energy to heat the leveler roller to a spreading temperature. The leveler roller is positioned to be partially wrapped by the continuous web to generate a predetermined dwell time between the continuous web and the leveler roller as the continuous web is being transported to equalize the temperatures of the web and ink on the web to within a predetermined range about the spreading temperature. The temperature leveling ink spreader includes a pressure roller positioned adjacent the leveler roller to form a spreading nip therebetween through which the continuous web is fed after the predetermined dwell time. The spreading nip is configured to apply a predetermined pressure to the continuous web and the ink thereon. |
| US08641160B2 |
Print media bottom portion printing
A method of printing includes ejecting ink drops onto a bottom portion of a print media from ink orifices of a first portion of a printhead; after ejecting ink drops from the first portion of the printhead, advancing the print media; and after advancing the print media, ejecting ink drops onto the bottom portion of the print media from ink orifices of a second portion of the printhead. The second portion of the printhead is smaller than the first portion of the printhead and excludes ink orifices toward an end of the printhead opposite a direction of the advancing of the print media. |
| US08641158B1 |
Refrigerator with rotatable shelves
A refrigerator is provided with rotatable shelves for easy food/item access and cleaning. In one embodiment a stationary or fixed shelf includes a rotatable disk mounted on a bearing retainer having bearings therein for manual, three hundred sixty degree (360°) rotation as desired. In another embodiment a quarter-round pivotable shelf is attached to a stanchion to enable the shelf to be manually pivoted ninety degrees (90°) for withdrawing and returning the shelf to the refrigerator food storage compartment as needed. |
| US08641157B2 |
Slide hinge and remote control with a slide hinge
A slide hinge is mounted between a body and a cover of a remote control and has a base and a slide pin assembly. The base has two opposite rails and each rail has a rail slot being curved and defined through the rail. The slide pin has a slide pin, a spring and a guide. The slide pin is mounted slidably through the rail slots and capable of moving along a curved path. The spring is mounted around the slide pin. The guide is slidably mounted around the slide pin and selectively compresses the spring. The slide hinge allows the cover to move along a curved path relative to the body. |
| US08641142B2 |
Weight based vehicle seat occupant detection device
A device configured to be installed in a vehicle seat for estimating an occupant weight. The device includes a bladder and a pressure sensor. The bladder is configured to define a cavity characterized as having a center of gravity. The bladder is effective to retain a fluid and pressurize the fluid in response to an occupant weight upon the bladder. The bladder is also configured to define an opening to the cavity. The pressure sensor is coupled directly to the opening in a manner effective to seal the opening and locate the pressure sensor proximate to the center of gravity. The pressure sensor provides a pressure signal indicative of the occupant weight. |
| US08641137B2 |
Vehicle headliner assembly
A vehicle headliner assembly includes a roof bow, a headliner, an alignment member and a fastener. The roof bow includes an attachment portion defining a first slot. The headliner includes a mounting portion defining a first aperture aligned with the first slot. The alignment member is non-movably attached to the roof bow at the first slot and defines an alignment hole that coincides with the first slot. The fastener includes an attachment projection that extends through the first aperture, through the alignment hole of the alignment member and through the first slot. The attachment projection has a retaining surface that contacts a surface of the roof bow adjacent to the first slot and faces away from the headliner such that the fastener retains the headliner to the roof bow. |
| US08641136B2 |
Vehicle panel
A vehicle panel with a folded-over or wrapped edge is disclosed. The vehicle panel comprises a main body portion. The main body portion includes a first layer and a second layer. The first layer is formed of a substantially rigid material and has a first surface, a second surface and an edge. The second layer is coupled to the second surface of the first layer and formed of a substantially flexible material. The vehicle panel also comprises a flap integrally formed with the main body portion at the edge and comprises at least the second layer. The vehicle panel further comprises a hinge separating the flap from the main body portion, the hinge is defined by at least a portion of the first layer having a reduced thickness. The flap is folded back about the hinge towards the first surface of the first layer to substantially conceal the edge. |
| US08641134B2 |
Air ducts formed in automotive structural members
An air duct for an automotive vehicle is blow molded with an elongated, hollow structural member to be used as a portion of a body of the vehicle. The structural member has an inner wall defining an elongated cavity communicating with first and second access holes at respective longitudinal positions along the structural member. A parison comprised of a thermally insulating material is inserted into the internal cavity. A source of inflation gas is connected to a mouth portion or the parison. The parison is heated and inflated within the internal cavity to an expanded shape to form the air duct disposed against the inner wall and spanning the first and second access holes. The air duct at one of the access holes is configured as an air inlet. The air duct at the other one of the access holes is configured as an air outlet. |
| US08641132B2 |
Hydraulically damping mount and motor vehicle with it
A hydraulically damping mount includes a support bearing and a seat which are supported on each other by a hollow conical spring element made of an elastomeric material. The support bearing is shaped essentially as a double-T and includes two annular radial flanges that are connected to each other via a centrally positioned connecting tube so as to be adjacent to each other at an axial distance from each other and so as to delimit the mount on a front on both sides. A working chamber and a compensation chamber are filled with damping fluid and are separated from each other, on respective axially facing sides, via a partition having a damping channel which connects the chambers to each other so as to convey the fluid. The partition is joined to the seat and has an annular shape that surrounds and seals the connection tube. |
| US08641129B2 |
Twelve-cornered strengthening member
A strengthening member for an automotive vehicle has a twelve-cornered cross section comprising sides and corners creating internal angles and external angles. The strengthening member also comprises one or more of trigger holes, convolutions, and flanges to stabilize the folding mode and prevent bending in response to an axially-applied crash force. |
| US08641128B2 |
Vehicle floor assembly with insert
An insert that can be used support a vehicle floor if a cross member fails either mechanically or through corrosion. The insert may also be used to protect a fastener used in a vehicle floor assembly. |
| US08641122B2 |
Decklid assembly for a vehicle
A decklid assembly for a vehicle includes a first panel and a second panel spaced apart from the first panel to define a void therebetween. The decklid assembly also includes a deployable handle assembly at least partially disposed within the void and including a mounting element and a handle. The mounting element defines a cavity therein and is configured for attaching to at least one of the first panel and the second panel, wherein the mounting element extends into the void and abuts the first panel and the second panel. The handle is pivotably attached to the mounting element and is configured for transitioning between a stowed position wherein the handle covers the cavity, and a deployed position wherein the handle does not cover the cavity. A vehicle including the decklid assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08641120B2 |
Vehicle storage compartment assembly
A vehicle storage compartment assembly includes a housing, a lid, a trim member and a plurality of ribs. The housing defines a storage compartment area with a first access opening. A wall within the storage compartment area includes a ledge spaced apart from the first access opening. A first end of the lid is pivotally coupled to the housing to move between an open position in which a second end is spaced apart from the ledge and a closed position in which the second end is located adjacent to the ledge. A flange of the trim member at least partially surrounds a second access opening of the trim member, with the flange extending into the first access opening. A recess is defined by the wall between the flange and the ledge. The plurality of ribs extend from the ledge of the wall toward the flange within the recess. |
| US08641116B2 |
Article to fix on a support provided with an opening and assist grip handle comprising it
The article comprises a part comprising two lugs for snap-fastening said part on a support and two abutment means for bearing against that support. The part also comprises a body, provided with an aperture, to which are attached the lugs as well as a fixing foot adapted to be disposed through the aperture. The article has a locked configuration in which the fixing foot blocks said lugs in said snap-fastening position and an unlocked configuration in which said foot is adapted to be inserted and extracted from said part and in that said article further comprises quarter turn fixing means to make the article pass between said locked configuration and unlocked configuration. |
| US08641112B1 |
Handheld metallic debris collector
A handheld device for collecting, retaining, and discarding small metallic debris located on a desk surface. The body of the device includes two main components: A reservoir for collecting metallic debris and a hollow magnet housing that contains a permanent magnet and a raising mechanism. The magnet is placed inside the magnet housing and is capable of being raised and lowered. When the magnet is in its low position, its magnetic field extends beyond the reservoir thus attracting metallic debris to the top surface of the reservoir. To discard the collected metallic debris, the magnet is raised via the raising mechanism to a position in which the metallic debris is no longer within the magnetic field. Several mechanical raising mechanisms are disclosed. |
| US08641111B2 |
Tool with attachment for collecting debris and method of using the same
An attachment to a shovel having a shovel head and a handle is provided, converting the shovel into a tool for collecting debris. The attachment has a clamping head and a pivot arm shorter than the shovel handle, and a pivot for attaching the attachment to the shovel handle. The attachment is movable between a closed position when the shovel head and the clamping head are juxtaposed face to face forming a tunnel therebetween, and an open position when the shovel head and the clamping head are spaced apart. In operation, the clamping head is moved into an open position to collect debris, and then moved into a closed position towards the shovel head to secure the debris, followed by rotating the tool by 90° plus an offset angle, thereby causing the clamping head to open under its weight and the debris to fall through the tunnel. |
| US08641110B1 |
Multi-purpose reacher-grabber tool
A tool with two interconnected appendages extending in two different directions from an end of an interchangeable extension pole. The first appendage may be oriented along a plane substantially parallel to the pole axis. The second appendage may be oriented along a plane substantially normal to the axis. An open-ended slot may be provided in each appendage for grabbing cords and other items. At least one of the open-ended slots may graduate from a larger width at an open end of the slot to a reduced width toward a closed end of the slot. Pull-chains to be operated can be inserted and locked into the smaller portion of the slot. Stop surfaces may be provided that limit insertion of an appendage to a specific distance, for example to operate a louver of a window shutter. Internal Acme threads may be provided in the tool to attach it to existing poles. |
| US08641108B2 |
Animal waste collection apparatus and method of use
An animal waste collection apparatus includes a housing having side and end walls defining an open top, bottom, and interior area. A bottom panel is pivotally coupled to a lower edge of one of the side walls and movable between an open configuration not covering the open bottom and a closed configuration covering the open bottom. A collection member includes a mounting portion completely covering the housing open top and a collection portion extending downwardly into the interior area, the collection portion being movable between a retracted configuration inside the interior area and an extended configuration outside the interior area through the open bottom for use to collect animal waste. The bottom panel is operatively coupled to the collection portion inside the interior area such that the bottom panel is moved to the closed configuration automatically when the collection portion resiliently moves from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration. |
| US08641107B2 |
Latch apparatus
A latch apparatus is disclosed comprising a latch supporting member and a latch member pivotally connected to the latch supporting member. The latch member comprises an extendable handle arm member. The latch apparatus further comprises a tray member connected to the latch supporting member and a cage member connected to the tray member. According to an exemplary embodiment, the latch member further comprises an engagement arm member comprising a first engaging member. Alternatively, the latch member further comprises a resilient member comprising a first engaging member. Moreover, the extendable handle arm member comprises a second engaging member. Furthermore, the latch supporting member comprises a third engaging member and a fourth engaging member. When the extendable handle arm member is in a latched position, the first engaging member is engaged with the cage member and the third engaging member, and the second engaging member is engaged with the fourth engaging member. |
| US08641104B1 |
Latch device with a clutch function
A latch device (14) includes a latch bolt (30) movable between a latching position and an unlatching position. A sleeve (775) is mounted to an outer side (13A) of a door (11) and operatively connected to an outer operational device (12). A clutch (575) is mounted to and jointly movable with the sleeve (775). An unlatching member (711) is operably connected to the latch bolt (30) and releasably engaged with the clutch (575). When the unlatching member (711) engages with the clutch (575), operation of a handle (502) of the outer operational device (12) retracts the latch bolt (30). When the unlatching member (711) disengages from the clutch (575), the latch bolt (30) remains in the latching position if the handle (502) is rotated. |
| US08641101B2 |
Oil transfer tube and assembly
A fluid transfer tube comprises a base, a plurality of external threads, and an annular shoulder. The base is disposed at a first axial end of the tube. The plurality of external threads are integrally formed into at least a portion of the base for securing the base into a boss. The annular shoulder is fixed to an outer diameter of the tube at a first distance from the first axial end, causing the shoulder to contact an outer surface of the boss with the base of the tube at a maximum depth in the receiving portion of the boss to prevent further downward travel of the base. |
| US08641099B2 |
Coupling with one-piece plural nipples
A fluid coupling assembly has a single fluid connection, including a plate and at least a pair of nipples extending away from the plate in a first direction, and at least a pair of connection pipes connected to each of the nipples extending from the plate in a second opposed direction. The nipples include a thread at an outer periphery, a ramped surface spaced in a direction beyond the thread and towards the plate, and a ditch beyond the ramped surface. A fluid coupling has a thread at an inner periphery received on the thread on the nipple, and the coupling has a plurality of circumferentially spaced fingers spaced by grooves, with the fingers being snapped into the ditch and is biased against the ramped surface. The plate, at least a pair of nipples and at least a pair of connection pipes are all formed of an integral piece of metal. |
| US08641098B2 |
Belt retractor frame
A belt retractor frame, which is suitable for fixing in a vehicle. The belt retractor frame has: at least one hook for hooking the belt refractor frame into a vehicle panel and at least one bent tab, which produces a preload with the vehicle panel after the at least one hook has been hooked in. |
| US08641096B1 |
Web mounted load limiting seatbelt anchor
A load limiting anchor for seatbelt systems is provided. The anchor includes a pair of plates sandwiched together and connected by a rivet or other fastener. One of the plates features a key-hole shaped slot through which the rivet can move upon relative sliding motion between the plates causing material deformation as the anchor absorbs tensile exerted by the associated seatbelt system. |
| US08641093B1 |
Retractable limb guard
A retractable limb guard assembly for a tractor with a pair of opposed loader brackets and a hydraulic system. The assembly includes a pair of opposed removable brackets connected to the pair of loader brackets. One pair of rocker arms is pivotally connected to each one of the pair of removable brackets. A limb shield is pivotally connected to each of the two pairs of the rocker arms. The pair of hydraulic cylinders is actuated by the tractor hydraulic system wherein each of the hydraulic cylinders extends between one of the removable brackets and one of the rocker arms in order to move the limb shield between a retracted position to an angled protection position. |
| US08641089B2 |
Airbag module for a vehicle steering wheel
In an airbag module (100) for a vehicle steering wheel comprising an inflator (110) and a device (130) for vibration damping on which the inflator (110) is mounted to be oscillating as vibration damper mass the device (130) for vibration damping is configured at least to damp a first device-specific frequency and a second device-specific frequency, wherein different excitation directions are associated with the first and second device-specific frequencies. |
| US08641087B2 |
Passenger protection of vehicle
A cell of a curtain airbag is configured such that its upper portion is closed in an inflated state of the curtain airbag, whereas its lower portion is open and connected to a gas flowing passage from an inflator. Accordingly, a passenger protection device of a vehicle which can properly prevent an interior material from being broken and scattered can be provided. |
| US08641081B2 |
Airbag apparatus for a front passenger's seat
A passenger airbag apparatus includes an airbag, an inflator, a case and a retainer. The case includes on a bottom wall a set-in opening through which the inflator is set in, a housing region that holds and houses the inflator, a mounting seat on which the airbag is mounted, lateral movement stopping sections that prevent the inflator from moving in an axial direction, and a rotation stopping section that prevents the inflator from rotating in a circumferential direction. The inflator includes a cut-out region engageable with the rotation stopping section. The retainer is secured to the mounting seats of the case with bolts while pressing a hem of an opening of the airbag against an upper circumferential plane of the inflator and the mounting seats, thus mounting the airbag and inflator on the case. |
| US08641080B2 |
Air bag container
The present invention relates to an air bag container consisting of an impact modified polyamide composition, wherein the polyamide composition has a Melt Volume-Flow Rate higher than 25 cm3/10 minutes. The polyamide composition preferably comprises a base polyamide, an impact modifier, reinforcing compounds and a flow improver. |
| US08641077B2 |
Stroller with a receiving frame and support straps for receiving car seats
A baby stroller for receiving car seats is disclosed. The stroller has a frame structure including two car seat receiving frames spaced apart in a longitudinal direction. The two frames are located at different heights, allowing the two car seats placed thereon to overlap each in the longitudinal direction. On each car seat receiving frame, one or more support straps are attached to a front bar and a rear bar of the frame and located below the frame. The support straps are adjustable in length. When a car seat is rested on a car seat receiving frame, the bottom of the car seat is supported by the support straps. A safety strap is provided to secure each car seat to the frame structure. The stroller does not have a seat for seating a child. |
| US08641076B2 |
Pivoting hitch assembly
A clevis pin combination comprises a clevis made of aluminum alloy; and a pin made of steel. This combination of parts and materials results in lighter weight and improved performance of maximum load carrying capacity over similar combinations of all aluminum or all steel. The clevis further comprises a first clevis leg having a first clevis aperture in a first clevis end and a second clevis leg having a second clevis aperture in a second clevis end. The second clevis end is spaced apart from the first clevis end forming an open end. A curved portion connecting the first clevis leg and the second clevis leg forms a closed end. The first clevis aperture and the second clevis aperture are axially aligned and the steel pin is sized to fit through the first clevis aperture and second clevis aperture allowing pivoting movement between the clevis and the pin. The clevis may be substantially U-shaped. At least the curved portion of the clevis may by significantly wider than it is thick, such that it is flat in cross-section. Alternatively, the clevis may be significantly wider than it is thick, such that it is flat in cross-section. The curved portion or the entire clevis may be formed of a single piece of solid aluminum bar stock bent into a U-shape, forming a weldless and seamless U-shaped clevis. |
| US08641073B2 |
Apparatus for adjusting the height of a saddle for a bicycle
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for adjusting the height of a saddle for a bicycle. The apparatus includes a saddle lift device that moves the saddle upwards or downwards to adjust the height of the saddle, and a controller that controls the operation of the saddle lift device. In the present invention, even when a bicycle is traveling, the height of the saddle can be automatically adjusted to an appropriate height depending on the travel conditions, thus enhancing the safety of a rider and providing convenience. Moreover, the present invention stores information about the body type of the rider and automatically adjusts the height of the saddle to a height suitable for the body type, thus making it markedly easy to adjust the height of the saddle, and enhancing the safety of the rider while riding the bicycle. |
| US08641070B2 |
Drive assistance device, wheelchair and method for determination of the physical efficiency and muscular effort data of a wheelchair driver
A drive assistance device for a wheelchair includes a drive motor, a running wheel and a sensor device which is adapted to determine a driving force manually induced into the running wheel; and a control unit which is adapted to control the drive motor for driving the running wheel depending on the driving force manually induced by the user into the running wheel. The control unit of the drive assistance device includes a user force analysis operational mode which is adapted to determine data concerning physical efficiency and capacity of the user. These include a maximum force of the user as well as the maximum speed which can be reached with purely manual drive. |
| US08641069B2 |
Apparatus for storing air
On an apparatus for generating and/or storing compressed air, particularly for filling tires of a vehicle, particularly a bicycle, it is provided that the apparatus is accommodated in an element (17), particularly a frame element of the vehicle. |
| US08641067B2 |
Suspension unit
A suspension unit is disclosed comprising: a hub 6; a bearing sleeve 24 eccentrically mounted within the hub 6; a crank pin 22 rotatably received within the bearing sleeve 24; and a connecting rod 20, a first end 28 of which is connected for rotation with the crank pin 22 over a connecting area 26 that comprises less than a complete circumference of the crank pin 22; the bearing sleeve 24 comprising a slot 52 through which the connecting rod 20 extends from the first 28 end to a second end. |
| US08641055B2 |
Snow machine ski
A ski for a snowmobile is provided with a pair of lateral wings and a central channel for increasing the flow of snow under a gliding surface at the bottom of the ski. The increased flow of snow enhances flotation of the ski. The channel may be formed by two downwardly extending keels. The wings are defined between the keels and outer edges of the ski. The keels may be asymmetric with a shorter keel being positioned toward an outer edge of the snowmobile to improve handling characteristics of a snowmobile. |
| US08641047B2 |
Fluororubber-metal laminate gasket material
A fluororubber-metal laminate gasket material, which comprises a metallic steel sheet, a zirconium element-, phosphorus element-, and aluminum element-containing surface-treating agent layer, a silica-containing thermosetting phenol resin-based vulcanizing adhesive layer, and a fluororubber layer, as successively laid upon one another on the metallic steel sheet, where the silica-containing thermosetting phenol-based vulcanizing adhesive is a thermosetting phenol resin-based vulcanizing adhesive comprising silica and cresol novolak-type epoxy resin or phenol novolak-type epoxy resin, and further containing 11-80 parts by weight of an aliphatic amine-based compound or a mixture thereof with an imidazole-based compound as a curing accelerator on the basis of 100 parts by weight of the thermosetting phenol resin, where the aliphatic amine-based compound and the imidazol-based compound are in a proportion of the former to the latter of 100-10 wt. % to 0-90 wt. %. |
| US08641046B2 |
Piston ring
A piston ring with a DLC coating comprises an adhesive layer on a base material from inside to outside, an amorphous metallic hydrocarbon layer and an amorphous non-metallic hydrocarbon layer, wherein primarily sp2 bonds predominate in the metallic hydrocarbon layer and the non-metallic hydrocarbon layer comprises sp2 and sp3 bonds, the sp3 bond fraction being higher than in the metallic hydrocarbon layer so that an electrical resistance of the DLC coating arises, said resistance being in the range greater than 5000 ohms, in particular greater than 5000 kohms. |
| US08641045B2 |
Seal with stacked sealing elements
A hybrid seal for sealing the circumferential gap between a first machine component and a second machine component comprises at least one shoe extending along one of the machine components in a position to create a non-contact seal, at least one spring element connected between one of the machine components and the shoe(s) and a stack of sealing elements located within a slot formed in the shoe(s), wherein a primary seal and secondary seal of the circumferential gap is created by the shoe(s) in cooperation with the spring element(s) and sealing elements, respectively. |
| US08641044B2 |
Multi-direction slot machine pay lines
Slot machines utilize one or more pay lines on which a combination of symbols are lined up to determine whether a particular pay line wagered is a winner according to a pay table that shows winning combinations with associated pays. Players are able to place wagers or bets of varying amounts on the pay lines and the machine pays out based on the amount wagered and the number of winning pay line combinations displayed. The present invention enhances game play by offering players the opportunity to choose whether to wager on a pay line that runs right-to-left or left-to-right without changing the probabilities of winning. Or, alternatively, of offering the player the option to wager on pay lines that run in both directions with a weighting of the win probabilities. |
| US08641043B2 |
Paper feed unit for printer
A paper feed unit for a printer to form an image on a print paper by an image former, the paper feed unit including: a paper feed tray that stacks print papers to be fed; a paper transfer route that transfers print papers; a register roller that is provided upstream of the image former in a paper transfer direction in the paper transfer route and holds a fed print paper to adjust a timing to transfer the fed print paper to the image former; a pick-up roller that transmits a print paper stacked in the paper feed tray to the register roller, the pick-up roller being smaller in width than a width of a print paper to be transmitted; and a regulator that comes into contact with a loose portion of a print paper loosened in a paper feed route in between the pick-up roller and the register roller. |
| US08641042B2 |
Sheet take-out apparatus with gap counter
A sheet take-out apparatus includes a first separation unit, a second separation unit, a drawing roller for drawing sheets from a nip of the second separation unit, and a pinch roller rotating in contact with it. Overlapping sheets which pass the first and second separation units and are not separated are detected to be overlapped in a state that they are clamped by the nip of the drawing roller and pinch roller. When overlapping is detected, in a state that the rear ends of the overlapping sheets in the conveying direction are restricted by the nip, the drawing roller and pinch roller are stopped and the overlapping sheets are re-separated. |
| US08641035B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus, image reading apparatus, and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus includes: a sheet housing unit that houses sheets in a stacked manner; a sheet conveying unit that conveys a sheet to a predetermined conveyance target position; a sheet pick-up unit that picks up outermost one of the sheets housed in the sheet housing unit for conveying to a sheet conveying unit side; a separating and conveying unit that separates the next sheet from the outermost sheet, and conveys only the outermost sheet to the sheet conveying unit; and a sheet-conveyance-movement detecting unit that detects presence or absence of movement of a sheet in the conveying direction. The sheet-conveyance-movement detecting unit is arranged at a position at which the outermost sheet and the next sheet may overlap each other, and a separation portion is located downstream of the pick-up position and is an area where a separation action of the separating and conveying unit works. |
| US08641033B2 |
Sheet feeding unit and printer
A sheet feeding unit to be inserted between a printer main unit and a sorting unit having a plurality of discharge trays. The sheet feeding unit includes a casing in which a sheet is housed and through which a feed path and a discharge conveyance path extend horizontally. The casing has on a face thereof adjacent to the printer main unit an exit of the feed path and an entrance of the discharge conveyance path, and on a face thereof adjacent to the sorting unit an entrance of the feed path and an exit of the discharge conveyance path. The positions of the exit and entrance of the feed path coincide with each other when seen in a conveyance direction, and the positions of the entrance and exit of the discharge conveyance path coincide with each other when seen in the conveyance direction. |
| US08641029B2 |
Method and device for processing printed products made of multiple paper sheets as well as a perforating knife
A method and device for processing printed products made of multiple paper sheets is disclosed. The paper sheets are moved in the direction of a leading open edge and the paper sheets are connected to each other in a detachable manner in the region of the edge. |
| US08641025B2 |
Method for the support of a rotating workpiece during grinding and a hydrodynamic steady rest
In a method for the hydrodynamic support and centering of a rotating workpiece during grinding and a steady rest usable for this purpose the bearing to be supported is impinged upon by a contact pressure which changes in accordance with rotational speed from a minimum pressure when the shaft is started from a standstill, to a maximum value during the processing rotational speed. The steady rest has an opening of a transversebore in a central bore receiving a supply line by which a lubricant can be supplied as hydraulic fluid to the bearing. The method is particularly suitable for the processing of camshafts and crankshafts. |
| US08641023B2 |
Thermocompensated spring and method for manufacturing the same
The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a spring for a timepiece, including the following steps: (a) forming a body using first and second metallic materials secured to each other; (b) decreasing the section of the body; and winding the body to form the spring. The invention also relates to the spring obtained via the method. The invention concerns the field of regulating members for timepieces. |
| US08641021B2 |
Heat exchanger for removal of condensate from a steam dispersion system
A steam dispersion apparatus includes a steam chamber communicating in an open-loop arrangement with a first steam source for supplying steam to the steam chamber. The steam chamber includes a steam dispersion location at which steam exits therefrom at generally atmospheric pressure. A heat exchanger communicates in a closed-loop arrangement with a second steam source for supplying steam to the heat exchanger at a pressure generally higher than atmospheric pressure. The heat exchanger is located at a location that is not directly exposed to the air to be humidified, the heat exchanger being in fluid communication with the steam chamber so as to contact condensate from the steam chamber. The heat exchanger converts condensate formed by the steam chamber back to steam when the condensate contacts the heat exchanger. |
| US08641020B2 |
System for dissolving gases in fuel
A system for gasification of liquid fuel includes an absorber to receive liquid fuel and as through separate ports, a vortex reactor to create a vortex of the gas and fuel droplets to enhance absorption of gas into the fuel, and a recirculation loop to remove and recirculate unabsorbed gas and fuel vapors from the absorber back to its tangential inlet port. Gasified fuel collects at the bottom of the absorber for delivery to an engine. |
| US08641018B2 |
Device and method for the intermittent impregnation and output of drinking water
The invention relates to a method and an associated device for intermittently enriching and dispersing drinking water with gases, particularly CO2 and/or O2, wherein the water is supplied to a mixing device (5) by means of a miniature pump (3), particularly an electromagnetic oscillating piston pump with a low supply volume and the greater throughput volume required for the tap process is realized by the gas flowing into the mixing device (5). |
| US08641012B2 |
Medical connector
A medical connector of improved configuration. Annular grooves are formed in both inner and outer surfaces of an outer peripheral portion of an elastic valve element to form an annular constricted section. An outer peripheral side from the constricted section is made to serve as an annular fixation section. A valve receiving seat is formed at an inner peripheral edge of an aperture portion in a housing, and an annular ring is fixed to the aperture portion to sandwich and support the annular fixation section between the valve receiving seat and the annular ring. Engaging projections formed on mutually facing surfaces of the valve receiving seat and the annular ring are engaged with the annular grooves, and either the engaging projection and/or the engaging projection is divided in a circumferential direction to have a plurality of projection-divisions. |
| US08641010B2 |
Valve with a solenoid fixed to a plunger tube by a yoke
The invention provides a valve comprising a tube for guiding movement of a plunger, a solenoid which can be arranged about the tube, and a yoke which can be positioned in an operational position relative to the tube and relative to the solenoid so that it provides a magnetic path between the solenoid and portions of the tube. The yoke engages the tube and thereby prevents removal of the solenoid from tube. The invention thereby provides a very simple valve design with a low amount of components. The invention further provides a method of making a valve including fixing a solenoid to a tube by use of a yoke which engages the tube. |
| US08641009B2 |
Positioner
A positioner operating mode identifying function and an use parameter selecting function are provided in a calculating unit. A positive operating parameter and a negative operating parameter are stored in a storing portion. The positioner operating mode identifying function identifies the operating mode of a positioner or from the direction of change of a control output and the direction of change of an amplified pneumatic pressure signal Pout, and the identification result is set automatically as the current operating mode of the positioner. In accordance with the current operating mode identified for the positioner, the use parameter selecting function selects, as the use parameter from the storing portion, the positive operating parameter if the positive operating mode, and the negative operating parameter if the negative operating mode, and sets the selected use parameter automatically. |
| US08641000B1 |
Tile holder and methods of use
A tile holder and methods of its use are described. Embodiments of the tile holder are adapted to mounting to suitable objects and removably and replaceably receiving tiles and the like. Embodiments of the tile holder comprise a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shaped tile frame having a frame having a face plate having an aperture for exposing a face of the tile and the like, a back plate removably and releasably fastened to the frame and having a stud for mounting to a post having a receiving hole for receiving the stud of the back plate and locking the back plate to the post with a fastener, another fastener for fastening the post to a suitable object, and an optional escutcheon for optionally fastening the post to the escutcheon and the escutcheon to a wall or other suitable object. |
| US08640999B2 |
Fastening device for bicycle seat pad and seat tube using the same
The fastening device of the present invention includes a base, two pawl shanks and two positioning rods. The base is formed with two hook portions and two base positioning holes. Each pawl shank is formed with a pawl positioning hole, and each pawl shank includes a pawl section and a hook section. Each positioning rod inserts in one of the base positioning holes and the pawl positioning hole of one of the pawl shanks, such that the pawl shanks are pivotable about the positioning rods respectively. Each hook portion and its corresponding hook section define a tube clamp space, and the pawl sections define a pad clamp space. The fastening device further includes a means for narrowing the tube clamp spaces and the pad clamp space. |
| US08640993B2 |
Parachute assemblies for training persons to catch an object in flight such as a ball
Devices, methods, and systems for slowing the descent of an object in flight such as a baseball using a parachute are presented. A parachute assembly includes a canopy attached to a plurality of suspension lines converging downwardly to a corresponding number of attachment points on the surface of a ball. The attachment points are substantially equidistantly spaced apart along a line of substantially equal latitude. In one embodiment, each attachment point defines an opening to an interior channel extending to a central chamber. Each suspension line is inserted into an interior channel, through the central chamber, and out of the ball through a common shaft, where the lines are fastened together in a bundle and then withdrawn until the bundle lies in the central chamber, retaining the lines inside the ball. |
| US08640990B2 |
Circumferential stiffener for an aircraft fuselage
A circumferential stiffener configured for a fuselage of an aircraft includes a web disposed at an angle to a normal axis of the circumferential stiffener, at least one inner flange, at least one outer flange and an integral angle profile configured for connection to a skin section of the fuselage. |
| US08640986B2 |
Turbojet nacelle and method for controlling separation in a turbojet nacelle
An aircraft turbojet nacelle comprising blowing means intended to inject a tangential airflow (Ft) into the internal volume (V) of the nacelle, said blowing means being provided in a wall of the air intake of the nacelle in the supersonic area of said air intake. The invention also concerns a method for controlling separation in an aircraft nacelle, wherein a tangential airflow is injected (Ft) into the internal volume (V) of the nacelle in the locally supersonic area of the air intake so as to pull the main airflow (F) into the extension of the inner wall of the nacelle. |
| US08640985B2 |
Co-rotating stacked rotor disks for improved hover performance
The system of the present application represents a rotor hub for a rotorcraft and a rotorcraft incorporating the rotor hub. The rotor hub is represented as having multiple rotor disk assemblies, each rotor disk assembly rotating in the same direction about the same mast axis of rotation. In the preferred embodiment, each rotor disk assembly has three rotor blades. The upper rotor disc assembly and the lower rotor disk assembly are separated by approximately 2.5% of the rotor disk diameter, at least to take advantage of “wake contraction”. |
| US08640984B2 |
Counter-torque device for a helicopter
A ducted fan for a helicopter includes a transverse duct and a counter-torque device supported within the duct. The counter-torque device includes a rotor rotatably mounted within the duct and a stator fixedly mounted within the duct downstream from the rotor. The rotor includes a rotor hub having a rotor axis, and rotor blades extending from the hub. The Rotor blades have a modulated angular distribution about the rotor axis. The stator includes a stator hub, and a plurality of stator vanes distributed around the stator hub. The stator vanes are angularly modulated around the stator hub. |
| US08640981B2 |
Reels with corrugated flanges and undercuts
Reels or spools for carrying wires or the likes, where the flanges of these reels or spools have corrugations with undercuts selectively formed thereon, are provided. These undercuts may aid in the molding process, such as injection molding or compression molding with substantially rigid molds, among other things. The reels or spools may also have supports dispersed between the corrugations to provide additional structural integrity to the flange. These supports can be mid-plane supports between the corrugations and may be positioned closer to the inside surface or to the outside surface of the flange, and the supports may form an angle with the corrugations. |
| US08640974B2 |
System and method for cooling a nozzle
A nozzle includes a center body and a shroud circumferentially surrounding at least a portion of the center body to define an annular passage between the center body and the shroud. A plurality of apertures pass through the center body to the annular passage, and a plenum extends inside the center body and is in fluid communication with the plurality of apertures. A cooling medium is in fluid communication with the plenum. A method for cooling a nozzle includes flowing a cooling medium through a plenum across a surface of the nozzle. |
| US08640973B2 |
Pressure washer wand having a nozzle selector
A pressure washer wand assembly configured to discharge pressurized fluid in a changeable spray pattern. The wand assembly comprises a tube portion having an input end and an output end. A nozzle assembly has a plurality of selectable nozzles, and the nozzle assembly is disposed near the output end and configured to discharge the pressurized fluid in a spray pattern. A nozzle indicator is spaced from the output end and indicates a spray characteristic of a selected nozzle. |
| US08640968B2 |
Temperature gain control device and method thereof
This specification discloses a device of controlling temperature gain and the method thereof. The invention detects the temperature of work environment and uses it to generate a control signal and a PWM signal for dynamically controlling the heaters around electronic elements to heat up. When the temperature of work environment is too low, the invention can increase the stability of the electronic elements. |
| US08640966B2 |
Smart card session optimization
A command destined for a smart card is received. If the command is of a state-altering type that places the smart card in a known state, it is relayed to a smart card reader unless the smart card is currently in the known state. If the command is a POWER OFF command, it is relayed to the smart card reader unless (i) the smart card is currently in the known state and (ii) within a predetermined time from receiving the command, a subsequent command of the state-altering type that places the smart card in the known state is received. If the command is not a POWER OFF command and is not of the state-altering type that places the smart card in the known state, it is relayed to the smart card reader. The command is discarded if not relayed to the smart card reader. |
| US08640961B2 |
Transponder inlay with antenna breaking layer for a document for personal identification, and a method for producing a transponder inlay
In various embodiments, a transponder inlay for a document for personal identification may include a cover; an adhesive layer arranged on the cover; a chip arranged on the adhesive layer; an antenna connected to the chip; and a top layer on the adhesive layer, wherein the top layer has a top and a bottom and wherein the bottom of the top layer is connected to the cover by means of the adhesive layer and wherein the antenna is arranged on the top of the top layer such that the antenna is at least to some extent physically separated from the adhesive layer by the top layer. |
| US08640960B2 |
Optical filter for image and barcode scanning
Methods for using an optical indicia reading terminal including a housing, a multiple pixel image sensor disposed within the housing, an imaging lens assembly configured to focus an image of decodable indicia on the image sensor, an optical bandpass filter disposed in an optical path of light incident on the image sensor, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter configured to convert an analog signal read out of the image sensor into a digital signal representative of the analog signal, and processor configured to output a decoded message data corresponding to the decodable indicia by processing the digital signal. |
| US08640955B2 |
Color barcode producing, reading and/or reproducing method and apparatus
A color barcode can record much more amount of information than black white barcode. However, the problem of the color barcode is that it is easy to lose integrity or authenticity in printing and copy generation. This invention provides an apparatus and a method to keep the integrity or authenticity of the color barcode. Such is accomplished by the color information portion of the color barcode representing the color information about what colors are used for color tiles of data portion of the color barcode and an apparatus and a method for producing and reproducing such color barcode. |
| US08640954B2 |
Filter-free projector
A filter-free projector includes a light source unit to generate light beams with different colors and a color control module coupled to the light source unit for switching the light source unit to emit one color of light at a time. A digital mirror device panel having a plurality of mirror elements is provided so as to reflect light fed from the light source unit. A projection lens is positioned in the reflected light path from the digital mirror device panel to project the image. The switching-on time of independent lights in the light source unit can be overlapped or not overlapped. |
| US08640950B2 |
Method and apparatus for contactless payment authentication
The present disclosure relates generally to the authentication of contactless payments attempted by a device having embedded contactless payment functionality. In particular, the disclosure is directed to systems and methods that utilize authentication schemes that already exist on a device in which the contactless payment functionality is embedded. One example of such authentication schemes is the use of password protection to lock or unlock the device in which the contactless payment functionality is embedded. Using the password protection functionality may provide varying levels of authentication protection based on the desires of the user. A number of exemplary uses of such a method and apparatus are disclosed herein. |
| US08640944B1 |
Portable computerized wireless payment apparatus and methods
A mobile user apparatus and associated methods useful for conducting and enabling payment transactions wirelessly, such as at point-of-sale locations. In one embodiment, the mobile user apparatus is a cellular-enabled mobile device that includes a short-range radio frequency device that communicates with a point of sale apparatus, including information relating to an account of the user of the mobile apparatus that is to be charged for the payment. In one variant, the information stored on the mobile device is further configured to receive transaction data wirelessly in return. In another variant, user biometric data is used to authenticate the transaction. |
| US08640942B1 |
Repair of superalloy component
A method of repairing a superalloy component (22) wherein a section (24) of the component containing a plurality of service-induced cracks (18, 20) is removed, then a replacement section (26) of superalloy material is installed with a structural braze joint (28) containing no boron or silicon. The replacement section may have a textured surface ((38) to enhance bonding with an overlying thermal barrier coating (42). The replacement section may be pre-formed to standardized dimensions in expectation of a typical service-induced crack pattern, and the removed section excavated accordingly. The interface between the replacement section and the component may be shaped to provide a mechanical interlock there between. |
| US08640939B2 |
Fastener driving tool
An explosively actuated fastener driving tool of the type having a driving piston for driving a fastener at the forward end of a barrel upon firing of the tool has a retractor pawl assembly with a pawl for resetting the piston into a rear end of the barrel by forward movement of the barrel relative to the receiver following firing. The pawl assembly is so constructed that the pawl can be withdrawn from the barrel to permit removal of the barrel for routine cleaning and maintenance but in this condition the assembly still remains attached to the tool to prevent components from being misplaced. |
| US08640937B2 |
Insulated container with asymmetric lifting arrangement
A soft-sided insulated container assembly includes a collapsible cooler body made of insulated panels. The body is to be carried by lifting apparatus that includes asymmetrically arranged fittings. Those fittings may be an inboard shoulder strap or a handle located on an outboard portion of a face of the container body, and may be at a height for engagement by the hand of the user. The assembly may have a liner to contain liquids and an easy access lid. The insulated container may be collapsed, and secured. In one embodiment the asymmetric lifting arrangement includes a shoulder strap attached to the sides of the container in a manner that distributes the load into the sides of the container, and includes a grip or handle located on the lower portion of the front side of the container to pull up on the bottom of the container when used by a person. |
| US08640935B2 |
Mounting assembly for child's bicycle seat
A bicycle includes a frame with at the front end a head tube, a fork having at its upper end a steering tube extending upwardly through the head tube, and a stem attached to the handlebars. The stem has a clamp portion clamped around the steering tube. One or more spacer rings or bushings are arranged around the steering tube between the upper end of the head tube and the stem clamp portion. A mounting assembly for mounting a child seat on the bicycle is mounted around the steering tube. The mounting assembly includes a support body and a clamping element to attach the support body to the steering tube. The clamping element is coupled to the support body and is clamped around the steering tube and arranged between two of said spacer rings or between the head tube and a spacer ring. |
| US08640934B2 |
Roof rack with stowable non-adjustable crossbars
The present invention is a roof rack having stowable, non-adjustable cross-bars. The roof rack also includes a plurality of mounts attached to a vehicle in an arrangement to provide a singular stowed position and a singular deployed position. The present invention also includes at least one cross-bar attached between the stowed position or the deployed position. The cross-bar is completely detached from the plurality of mounts to move the cross-bar from the stowed position to the deployed position. |
| US08640926B2 |
Dispenser with flexible cover
A fluid dispenser including a backplate and a flexible cover fixedly secured to the backplate. A refill unit including a product reservoir and a pump is positioned within the dispenser and is carried by the backplate. The flexible cover is adapted to flex or deform when pressed by a user to actuate the pump, thereby alleviating the need for separate actuating members or pivoting of the cover. |
| US08640922B2 |
Multicomponent cartridge with venting apparatus
A multicomponent cartridge includes a first storage chamber for a first component and a second storage chamber for a second component. The first storage chamber is separate from, and arranged next to, the second storage chamber. A first piston is movably received in the first storage chamber. A second piston is movably received in the second storage chamber. Each of the first or second storage chambers has a respective filling end and a respective discharge end. The storage chambers are connected to one another at at least the discharge end. The storage chambers have inner walls with the discharge end opening into a discharge element in an opening aperture. A venting element is upstream of the corresponding opening aperture at at least one of the inner walls, with the venting element extending over a maximum of one third of a longitudinal dimension of the storage chamber. |
| US08640921B2 |
Device, system and method for dispensing a fixed dose of fluid
The invention relates to a device for dispensing a fixed dose of fluid, the device comprising at least one barrel; at least one plunger at least partially enclosed within the barrel; a motion conversion mechanism for transferring actuated pressure force applied outside the barrel into movement of the at least one plunger in a dispensing direction, wherein the motion conversion mechanism comprises at least one rotating gear; and a releasing mechanism for disconnecting the plunger from the motion conversion mechanism, wherein at a released position the at least one plunger can move in a direction opposite to the dispensing direction, independent of a rotational movement of the at least one gear, and wherein the movement of the plunger in the opposite direction to the dispensing enables loading the fluid into the barrel. |
| US08640920B2 |
Method of forming and filling a pouch
A method of forming and filling a pouch, comprises forming opposing walls of a film; sealing the opposing walls of film together to form at least one pouch; filling an interior section of the at least one pouch through an opening in an upper portion of the at least one pouch with a flowable material; forming a top sealed expressing-shaped region to close the opening in the at least one pouch; and cradling the pouch with a foldable flat that is more rigid than the pouch that can be folded or rolled to compress the pouch to express the flowable material through the expressing shaped region. |
| US08640919B2 |
Wine extraction and preservation device and method
Devices and methods are disclosed for extracting fluids from within a container sealed by a cork or septum without removal of the cork or septum or the contamination of the fluid within the container by reactive gases or liquids. Embodiments of the device can include a needle connected to a valve which is in turn connected to a source of pressurized gas for displacing the fluid. Further embodiments of the device can comprise additional components that act to force the needle to be inserted through the cork or septum along a linear path, to aid in preventing buckling of the needle, to clamp the device to the container, to prevent expulsion of the cork or septum from the container, and to guide the needle through a specified region of the cork or septum. Various valves, pressure regulators, pressure ranges, needle geometries, gas selections are also presented. This device is particularly suited for the dispensing and preservation of wine. |
| US08640908B2 |
Slow cooker
A slow cooker is provided which comprises a cooking body having a hollow cavity, a liner container received in the hollow cavity, a lid selectively engageable with the liner container, and a locking assembly for locking the lid with the cooking body. The locking assembly is hinged at one side of the cooking body at one end and selectively engaged with an opposite side of the cooking body at the other end, with the locking assembly being disposed above the lid. |
| US08640903B2 |
Oil tank floating roof device
An oil tank floating roof device, includes a plurality of connecting bars and a plurality of floating units, which are respectively secured to the plurality of connecting bars by means a plurality of longitudinal and crosswise holding spaces collectively encircling the floating units. A plurality of locking members are fitted on the peripheries of the floating units, and two sides of the connecting bars respectively form at least one joining groove. The joining grooves respectively enable each of the floating units to longitudinally or crosswisely insert therein. The top portions of the connecting bars form at least one pressure resistant reinforcing plate, and the pressure resistant reinforcing plate is fitted with a plurality of locking portions. Bolts are used to respectively correspondingly pass through the locking portions and bolt into the locking members on the longitudinal or crosswise sides of the base of the floating units. |
| US08640897B2 |
Vented teat
A teat for a feeding bottle has a one-way valve located remotely from the nipple of the teat to allow air to enter the feeding bottle to replace liquid sucked out of the bottle through the nipple while preventing liquid from leaking from the bottle. The one-way valve comprises an inwardly-oriented depression having opposed mutually inclined side walls meeting along a ridge having a slit. In the invention, when undeflected, the side walls make line contact with one another at the ridge and the thickness of the side walls is less than 0.4 mm so that, when acted upon by an increased pressure in the feeding bottle, the side walls collapse against one another and make sealing contact along a surface that extends from the ridge in the direction away from it. |
| US08640894B1 |
Outdoor table organizer assembly
An outdoor table organizer assembly is provided for storing multiple items commonly used in association with an outdoor table in an organized and easily accessible manner. The assembly includes an elongated pole inserted through an outdoor table. A utensil holder has a bottom and a perimeter wall extending upwardly from an outer edge of the bottom. The bottom further has an inner edge defining a hole. The pole is inserted through the hole in the bottom of the utensil holder frictionally coupling the pole to the utensil holder. A napkin holder is coupled to the perimeter wall of the utensil holder for holding napkins and a platform is coupled to and extends outwardly from the utensil holder. A post extends upwardly from the platform for supporting a roll of paper towels when the post is inserted into the roll of paper towels. |
| US08640890B2 |
Bag rack system
A bag rack system adapted to hang a bag by its handles in the open position. The bag rack system includes a pair of spaced mounts or brackets. Each bracket includes an arm releasably secured to a base. The base can be attached to a top, bottom, or vertical surface of an object while the arms are repositionable relative to the base to maintain a horizontal position. Each arm includes a cleating structure to maintain the bag in the open position. |
| US08640888B2 |
Bike carrying device
A bike carrying device includes a support post (5), a mounting unit (4) mounted on the support post, a positioning bar (6) mounted on the mounting unit, a pawl member (7) mounted in the mounting unit, a release member (415) mounted in the mounting unit, a lock mechanism (414) mounted on the mounting unit and connected with the release member, and an elastic member (8) biased between the mounting unit and the pawl member. Thus, the bike carrying device has a simplified construction to decrease the cost of fabrication. |
| US08640887B2 |
Zirconium phosphate particles having improved adsorption capacity and method of synthesizing the same
Zirconium phosphate particles are synthesized by providing a solution of zirconium oxychloride in an aqueous solvent, adding at least one low molecular weight, oxygen containing, monofunctional, organic additive to the solution, and combining this solution with heated phosphoric acid or a phosphoric acid salt to obtain zirconium phosphate particles by sol gel precipitation. |
| US08640886B2 |
Composite membrane including coating of polyalkylene oxide and triazine compounds
Composite membranes including a coating of polyalkylene oxide and triazine compounds along with various methods for making and using the same. In one embodiment, the composite membrane comprises a thin film polyamide layer including a coating of a reaction product of a polyalkylene oxide compound and a triazine compound. |
| US08640885B2 |
Fluid treatment arrangements with sets of fluid treatment elements and methods for making and using them
Fluid treatment arrangements having at least first and second radially displaced sets (12,13) of fluid treatment elements and methods for making and using them are disclosed: A ribbon including a permeable fluid treatment medium may be spirally wound in a plurality of windings to form a fluid treatment element of either set. At least two and as many as fifty or more fluid treatment elements (14′, 14″) may be positioned along a hollow core assembly (11) in each set. Fluid may be directed to or from the interior of the core assembly through a fluid treatment element of the first set and a fluid treatment element of the second set. In each fluid treatment element, fluid flows generally edgewise through the permeable fluid treatment medium. |
| US08640883B2 |
Filtration barrier
A filtration barrier comprises first elements that are fibers, strips, or bristles wherein apertures between elements provide passages for a fluid transporting granules to the filtration barrier, and wherein the elements (11) are supported against deflection by second elements (12) when the fluid is flowing in a forwards direction whereby granules are prevented from accompanying the fluid through said passages by the barrier, but whereby the second elements do not support the first elements against deflection when the fluid flows in a (back-wash) direction opposite the forwards direction, when the elements (11a, 11b, 11c) become deflected by the fluid to increase the size of the apertures. In various embodiments of the invention the elements are supported at one end or both ends, and elements are arranged to deflect differently to further increase the apertures between neighboring elements as shown below. |
| US08640882B2 |
Compact fluid purification device with manual pumping mechanism
A compact fluid purification device includes a housing having an inlet for receiving unfiltered liquid and an open end and a first valve disposed within the inlet and being configured to only permit unfiltered liquid to flow into a hollow interior of the housing. The device has a plunger that is movable between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position. Movement of the plunger toward the fully extended position causes unfiltered liquid to be drawn into the interior of the housing and the device includes a second valve disposed within the outlet and being configured to only permit filtered liquid to be discharged from the plunger housing. The unfiltered liquid is filtered when the plunger is moved toward the fully retracted position causing the unfiltered liquid in the interior to flow into the inside of the filter elements and then across the filter elements and into the outlet. |
| US08640880B2 |
Screening machine
A screening machine is provided with a screening device and a screening device with multiple adjacent screen shafts disposed rotatable each of which being provided with a plurality of screen disks. The screen disks are made of rigid materials and are separated from one another in the axial direction by a clearance each. The screen disks of a screen shaft engage in clearances of the screen disks of adjacent screen shafts. Half of the screen disks are provided with a cleaning device for cleaning the clearances between the screen disks. |
| US08640878B2 |
Tilt roller grader with plurality of jacks
A tilt roller grader for grading solid objects, such as shrimp. The grader has grading rollers obliquely arranged across a tilted grading bed. Jacks in cross members supporting the bed are used to jack up the grading bed across its width to adjust the flatness of the bed for uniform grading gaps between the grading rollers and the bed. |
| US08640875B2 |
Tray holder tag support
A tray holder tag support for attachment of signage to an edge of a tray. The tray is characterized as having a base and upstanding sides emanating therefrom, at least one of the sides terminating in a lip, the lip having a width. The tray holder tag support includes a planar region which when applied to the tray extends proximate one of the side walls. A clip or pair of clips are provided each having a first segment appended to and extending from the planar region, the first segment(s) being of a length greater than the width of said lip. Second segment(s) extend substantially downwardly from the first segment(s) and third segment(s) extend from the second segment(s) and are sized to extend under the lip when the tray holder tag support is appended to the tray. |
| US08640874B2 |
Confectionery package
A package for holding a plurality of non-spherical products, each product having at least one product axis, is provided. The package comprises a tray defining a tray plane, a plurality of open pockets protruding from the tray plane, each for containing a single product; and each pocket including an angular orienting pocket wall portion for angularly orienting the product within the pocket, so that a product axis is angularly oriented with respect to the tray plane. |
| US08640872B2 |
Egg container with stack-spacing system
A container for receiving frangible items comprising a sheet of polymer formed into: a base portion and at least one cover portion with a hinge between the base portion and the cover portion. Abutment spacer are formed at an edge between the peripheral walls and the top wall and each comprise an abutment surface projecting into the concavity from one of the peripheral walls, and support walls relating the abutment surface to the top wall, with at least one of the support walls being in an acute angle relation with the top wall of the cover portion. Alignment channels are in at least one of the peripheral walls defining an alignment protrusion through the sheet of polymer, the alignment channel/protrusion being oriented vertically for guiding the nesting of an upper one of the cover portion descending into a lower one of the cover portion. |
| US08640870B2 |
Discreet packaging for personal care products
A packaging system for personal care products includes a package configured for receipt of personal care products therein, the package including an external surface, a package circumference, a package height, and a package width; and a concealment element repositionable between a first position in which the packaging system exhibits product-identifying graphics and a second position in which the packaging system is substantially bereft of product-identifying graphics, wherein the concealment element is a tubular sleeve that is open at two ends and that, in the first and second positions and at all intermediate positions while being repositioned between the first and second positions, circumscribes the package at the package circumference and does not extend beyond one of the package height and the package width. |
| US08640867B2 |
Mobile device vessel
A protective and decorative casing for handheld devices such as a cellular phone, mobile computing device, or portable digital media player. The casing comprises a device stand. The casing expands to allow insertion of the handheld device. The casing has an accessory storage area. |
| US08640866B1 |
Golf club holding assembly
A golf club holding assembly includes a panel that has a perimeter edge including top edge, a bottom edge, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a front side and a back side. A plurality of club pockets is attached to the front side. Each of the club pockets is vertically orientated and is laterally aligned with each other. The club pockets each have an upper end form an access opening configured to receive a golf club handle. The plurality of club pockets includes at most four club pockets and at least two club pockets. A coupler is attached to the panel and is configured to releasably secure the panel to a golf bag. |
| US08640863B2 |
Dust and particulate containment system for conveyors
A dust and particulate containment system for an open sided gallery conveyor, having a movable curtain for covering the open side of the conveyor and a trough positioned within and extending along a length of the conveyor. A rail is arranged within the conveyor and a carriage, having an opening for transferring bulk materials therethrough via a sealed connection to a cross conveyor, is positioned to move along this rail. Sealing strips in the trough retain the curtain tautly in place and seal the open side of the conveyor. As each carriage moves along the rail, a spreader frame attached to the carriage biasingly opens the sealing strips, and temporarily frees the curtain from being retained, so that the freed curtain is lifted over the carriage to avoid covering the opening in the carriage, so that transfer of bulk materials in the conveyor can occur through the opening. |
| US08640862B2 |
Seam-on laminated belt
An on-machine-seamable industrial belt and method of forming an on-machine-seamable industrial belt including the steps of providing a base structure having first and second edges, providing a seam connecting the first and second edges, and laminating a layer onto the base structure and the seam. |
| US08640859B2 |
Conveyor pallet and guiding system
A conveyor system pallet is provided, having: a pallet body; and a guiding system operatively attached to the pallet body and designed to abut against at least one side rail of a conveyor system, the guiding system including: a plurality of first directional guides; and a plurality of second directional guides oriented approximately orthogonally to the first directional guides. A further guiding system for a conveyor pallet is provided, having: a plurality of first directional guides having: a plurality of guides designed to abut against a first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of guides designed to abut against a second side rail located above the first side rail of the conveyor system; and a plurality of second directional guides designed to engage an underside of the first side rail. |
| US08640858B2 |
Method and apparatus for conveying sand molds
Method and apparatus for feeding sand molds from multiple sand mold forming stations to a common metal pouring station. The method and apparatus of this invention utilize walking-beam-type conveyors having spaced apart fixed outboard rails and a central reciprocating rail. Transfer devices are provided for moving the sand molds onto and off of the conveyors. |
| US08640856B2 |
Removable cartridge cleaner
A removable cartridge cleaner assembly is provided that allows for faster and easier removal of the belt cleaner blades out from under a conveyor belt. In one aspect the assembly includes a biasing surface of one of an elongate support assembly and a channel member configured to be engaged by a securing member and urge distal ends of legs of the channel member into tight engagement with the elongate support assembly and minimize debris accumulation therebetween. In another aspect, the elongate base member and rail member each include lateral portions configured to slidably engage corresponding wedge portions to urge the rail member toward the base member. A method of installing a belt cleaner assembly is also provided which includes camming a rail member downwardly toward the support member upper surface. |
| US08640853B2 |
Article alignment device
An article alignment device aligns articles having first end portions and second end portions that have a shape different from the shape of the first end portions. The article alignment device includes a first conveyance device, a second conveyance device, and a control device. The first conveyance device has conveyance units that carry and convey the articles. The first conveyance device conveys the articles in a first orientation. In the first orientation the first end portions are positioned on a downstream side with respect to a first conveyance direction of the articles. The second conveyance device is placed downstream of the first conveyance device. The control device controls the first and second conveyance devices such that the orientation of first articles conveyed by the second conveyance device are changed to a second orientation where the second end portions are positioned on the downstream side. |
| US08640852B2 |
Spring feeder
A spring feeder including a conveying path and a conveying portion including a conveying groove, the conveying groove having a width approximately equal to a width of the springs. The conveying path for feeding includes a first sorting and conveying portion and a second sorting and conveying portion, the first sorting and conveying portion, the second sorting and conveying portion, and the conveying portion for connection are linked consecutively from the container side. A width of the conveying groove of the second sorting and conveying portion is narrower than a width of the conveying groove of the first sorting and conveying portion and the width of the conveying groove of the second sorting and conveying portion is narrow enough to allow only one spring to be loaded in the conveying direction in the conveying groove of the second sorting and conveying portion. |
| US08640849B2 |
Paper sheet processing device
A paper sheet processing apparatus capable of preventing an action of drawing out a paper sheet such as a bill is provided. A bill processing apparatus of the present invention has an insertion slot into which a bill is inserted and a traveling route through which the bill inserted into the insertion slot is conveyed. The traveling route has a first traveling route (3A) connected to the insertion slot and a second traveling route (3B) extending downstream from the first traveling route (3A) and being inclined relative to the first traveling route (3A). The second traveling route (3B) is provided with a shutter member (200) for preventing conveyance of the bill toward the insertion slot. |
| US08640848B1 |
Shaft positioning device
The shaft positioning device includes a first supporting part, a second supporting part, and a position-limiting structure. The first supporting part includes a first hole. The second supporting part includes a second hole. After two ends of a shaft are penetrated through the first hole and the second hole, respectively, the position-limiting structure is located beside the first supporting part to limit the axial position of the shaft. Consequently, the shaft positioning device of the present invention is capable of positioning various types of shafts without the need of reserving a large installation space. |
| US08640846B2 |
Friction clutch and method to reduce drag loss in friction clutch
A wet clutch includes a rotatable hub and a rotatable drum having an aperture extending therethrough. A plurality of outer clutch plates are fixed for rotation with the drum. A plurality of inner clutch plates are fixed for rotation with the hub and interleaved with the outer clutch plates. A piston is moveable to apply a force to the inner and outer clutch plates to transfer torque between the hub and the drum. A cover is moveable relative to the drum between first and second positions. The cover selectively restricts a flow of fluid through the aperture in the drum when in the first position. |
| US08640841B2 |
Bidirectional driving device
A bidirectional driving device includes a ratchet wheel, a movable handle, a fixed casing, a pawl reset spring, a handle reset spring and a central shaft. The handle reset spring is in an inner hole of the ratchet wheel. A positioning column of the handle reset spring is placed in sliding slots of the movable handle and of the fixed casing. First and second pawls are disposed between the ratchet wheel and the movable handle. Tooth sections of the first and second pawls are engaged with ratchet teeth of the ratchet wheel. Positioning columns of the first and second pawls are connected with the movable handle. Bosses of the first and second pawls are placed in sliding slots of the fixed casing, each composed of two circular arc slot sections with different radius. The pawl reset spring is connected with the bosses and with the central shaft. |
| US08640837B2 |
Damper
Damper, in particular for washing machines with a spin cycle, with a housing having a central longitudinal axis and at least partially encompassing a housing interior by housing walls, a plunger displaceable in the housing along the central longitudinal axis, guided out of the housing and having at least one friction lining recess, fastening elements, arranged on open ends of the housing and the plunger, and at least one friction lining, arranged in the at least one friction lining recess and in frictional contact with opposite housing walls. |
| US08640836B2 |
Device for supporting brake shoes of a drum brake
A device for supporting brake shoes of a drum brake of a vehicle, in particular of a utility vehicle or an agricultural machine, includes a brake carrier, a brake lining carrier and a bearing body, wherein the brake lining carrier is arranged on the brake carrier so as to be swivelable across the bearing body in such a way that the brake lining carrier can be pivoted along a plane of swiveling, the inclination of the plane of swiveling to the brake carrier being variable, and wherein the bearing body has a bearing surface which is rotation-symmetrical about its bearing axis and the front faces of the bearing body have fastening portions for arranging the bearing body on the brake carrier or on the brake lining carrier. |
| US08640835B2 |
Suspension unit
A suspension unit, for example for a track-laying vehicle, comprises an oil-filled cylinder within which a piston, connected to a piston rod, is provided. The cylinder 4 is oil-filled, and communicates with an upper region of a spring chamber, the lower region 46 of which contains gas under pressure. The piston rod has a hollow interior filled with gas under pressure. The piston is connected by a connecting rod to a secondary piston which is slidable within the piston rod. On rebound the piston rod and the piston move relatively to each other between a retracted end position and an extended end position. During this movement and the return movement, oil is transferred, by way of apertures between damping chambers which serve to damp the relative movement of the piston and the piston rod so avoiding shock loading at the end positions of the movement. |
| US08640834B2 |
Connecting rod
A connecting rod utilized to operate brake levers and brake beams in brake riggings of railway cars including a hollow steel pipe having a first and a second open end and linking element inserted at each open end of the hollow steel pipe and joined thereof by a pressure fit joint without the need of adding further materials or welding both elements and without the need of casting a single piece which is very common in the art. |
| US08640832B2 |
Central control braking system
A central control braking system includes: a pedestal; at least one caster mounted at a bottom portion of the pedestal; a brake transmission shaft for controlling the caster; a plate girder movably connected to the pedestal; a pedal fixed to the plate girder; and a reversing rotary assembly connecting the plate girder and the brake transmission shaft, wherein the reversing rotary assembly enables the brake transmission shaft to rotate in reverse under the control of the pedal. |
| US08640828B2 |
Load supporting belt
A supporting belt for a transport device, such as an elevator system, includes at least one stranded wire made of an electrically conducting material for absorbing the forces absorbed by the supporting belt and an electrically insulating jacket that encloses the wire. In order to determine the state of the wire, the wire can be contacted by a contact element securely and reliably and in an exact manner. To achieve this, the jacket is at least partially removed in the area of an opening of the supporting belt and the wire is at least partially exposed in the area of the opening. The wire thus does not include a jacket substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis formed by a center point of a cross-section of the wire. The wire can be contacted by a contact element without the jacket being pierced. |
| US08640825B2 |
Acoustic panel for an ejector nozzle
The invention relates to an acoustic panel (20) for an ejector nozzle (10) comprising the following main components: an external skin (22) containing acoustic holes (29); an internal skin (23); an acoustic structure (21) comprising alveolar-core cells (27) between the internal skin (23) and the external skin (22). At least one main component selected from the external skin (22), the internal skin (23) and the acoustic structure (21) is formed by a composite material and the acoustic structure (21) is held in contact with either or both of the internal (23) and external (22) skins by compression by elastic means and/or by fixing by mechanical fixing means (24). The invention also relates to an injector nozzle (10) and a nacelle (1) comprising such an acoustic panel (20). |
| US08640823B2 |
Device for reducing aerodynamic noise from an aircraft undercarriage
In the field of aviation, a device for limiting aerodynamic noise from a deployed aircraft undercarriage during landing and/or takeoff. The device comprises two end plates (4a, 4b) for closing respective ends (2a, 2b) of a hollow pin (1) of the undercarriage, such as a hinge pin between two rods of the undercarriage, together with at least one tie (6) for engaging inside the hollow pin (1) to connect the two end plates (4a, 4b) together so as to hold them pressed against the ends (2a, 2b) of the pin (1). |
| US08640818B1 |
Speaker enclosure
The present invention relates to speaker enclosures utilizing the golden ratio geometrically throughout the design to reduce reflections, resonance and phase shifting, and to improve the transient response. Enclosures can be box-shaped, trapezoidal, suspended or otherwise configured. The enclosure has a driver wall, a baffle and a rear wall. The driver wall and baffle define a front chamber, and the baffle and rear wall define a rear chamber. The volumetric ratio between the rear chamber and front chamber can be approximately 0.6. The rear chamber also can have braces or dividers that segment the chamber into a central portion and two side portions. The volumetric ratio between the side portions and the central portion can be approximately 0.6. Ports of various configurations are provided. Braces can be used in conjunction with the ports to diffuse the incoming air. The baffle can have a plurality of radiused holes there through. |
| US08640814B2 |
Side-by-side vehicle
The present invention relates to all terrain vehicles having at least a pair of laterally spaced apart seating surfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to side-by-side all terrain vehicles having plural rows of seats. |
| US08640813B2 |
Ignition interlock device with rolling retest and motion detector
A breath alcohol ignition interlock device. The breath alcohol interlock device includes an ignition interlock system for use with a vehicle, the interlock system requiring a successful breathalyzer test to initiate operation of a motor of the vehicle, the interlock system including a CPU. A vehicle computer that controls functions of the vehicle related to motion receives a signal from the interlock system of a successful breathalyzer test to permit operation of the motor vehicle. A motion detection device associated with the vehicle determines when the vehicle is placed into motion. The motion detection device provides a signal to the CPU of the ignition interlock system when vehicle motion is detected. The CPU of the ignition interlock system initiates a breathalyzer retest algorithm upon receiving a signal from the motion detection device that the vehicle is placed in motion. |
| US08640805B2 |
Bicycle with auxiliary power unit
A bicycle includes an auxiliary power unit for regenerating electric energy even with no braking operations. A power-assisted bicycle includes a controller for detecting a torque value of a pedaling torque applied to a crankshaft for controlling an output of a brushless motor according to the torque value detected. A power transmitting member outputs the pedaling torque applied to the crankshaft to a rear wheel with a clutch unit for permitting an output of a driving force of the brushless motor to the rear wheel, but not an output of power from the rear wheel to the brushless motor. A selector selects whether or not to permit transmission of power from the rear wheel to the brushless motor. The clutch unit includes a lock-up ratchet for selectively permitting an output of power from the rear wheel WR to the brushless motor according to an operation of the selector. |
| US08640804B2 |
Vehicle for towing an airplane
A vehicle for towing an airplane by receiving thereupon a nose landing gear of the airplane having an airplane longitudinal axis. The vehicle having a vehicle longitudinal axis and is configured to tow the airplane along a straight or curved path and comprises a controller for directing its operation, including maintaining the vehicle's in-phase position in which the vehicle longitudinal axis is parallel to the airplane longitudinal axis. |
| US08640801B2 |
Propulsion device for automobile with portal axle comprising an electrical machine
A drive apparatus (1) for a motor vehicle has a hollow portal axle (2) that accommodates two electrical machines (4). Wheels (12) are mounted rotatably at opposite ends of the portal axle (2) and can be driven by the electrical machine (4) associated with the respective wheel. A step-down gear mechanism (8, 9) is arranged between each electrical machine (4) and the respective wheel (12) and a separate connection from the respective wheel to the step-down gear mechanism, permits the wheel to be mounted in a non-rigid manner. The respective step-down gear mechanism (8, 9) is connected to the respective wheel (12) by a cardan shaft (10). |
| US08640800B2 |
Chassis for a motor vehicle having an electrical axle
A chassis (1) for a motor vehicle has an electrical axle (2) with two electrical machines (4) for respectively driving two wheels (6). The chassis (1) also has a step-down gear mechanism (10, 11) arranged between the respective electrical machine and the associated wheel. Each step-down gear mechanism is connected to the respective wheel by a cardan shaft. The respective rotation axes (5, 5) of the two electrical machines are arranged parallel and next to one another. The chassis enables each wheel to be mounted in a non-rigid manner and permits the overall length of the electrical machines to be varied on account of the arrangement of the rotation axes of the electrical machines. |
| US08640797B2 |
Endless belt tensioner system and method of use thereof
An endless belt tensioner system adapted to apply a minimum tensioning force on a ground-contacting endless belt of a vehicle is provided, the minimum tensioning force being managed to prevent the endless belt to disengage from an operating configuration. A vehicle and a method of use thereof are also provided. |
| US08640796B2 |
Solar-powered quadricycle with regenerative and dissipative braking
A solar-powered vehicle with regenerative and mechanical braking includes a chassis or frame, a seat mounted to the frame, a rear axle rotatably supported on the frame, spaced apart left and right rear wheels mounted on the rear axle, and at least one front wheel mounted on the frame. The vehicle includes a selectively engageable regenerative braking system and a selectively engageable mechanical braking system. A lever for engaging the braking systems has three positions, wherein at a first position a reed switch on the lever engages a magnetic source, disabling the regenerative braking system. At a second position, the reed switch disengages the magnetic source, enabling the regenerative braking system. At a third position of the lever, the mechanical braking system is engaged. |
| US08640791B2 |
System and method for monitoring and controlling underground drilling
A system and method for monitoring underground drilling in which vibration is monitored by creating a model of the drill string using finite element techniques or finite difference techniques and (i) predicting vibration by inputting real time values of operating parameters into the model, and then adjusting the model to agree with measured vibration data, (ii) predicting the weight on bit and drill string and mud motor speeds at which resonance will occur, as well as when stick-slip will occur, so that the operator can avoid operating regimes that will result in high vibration, (iii) determining vibration and torque levels along the length of the drill string based on the measured vibration and torque at one or more locations, (iv) determining the remaining life of critical components of the drill string based on the history of the vibration to which the components have been subjected, and (v) determining the optimum drilling parameters that will avoid excessive vibration of the drill string. |
| US08640788B2 |
Motor interface for parallel drive shafts within an independently rotating member
Mechanisms, assemblies, systems, tools, and methods incorporating the use of an offset drive shaft within an independently rotating member are provided. An example mechanism includes a base and a main shaft mounted to rotate relative to the base, a first drive shaft mounted inside the main shaft, and a first drive feature engaged with the first drive shaft. The main shaft includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a main shaft rotational axis defined therebetween. The first drive shaft is offset from the main shaft rotational axis. A first drive feature rotational axis is defined for the first drive feature and is fixed relative to the base as the main shaft rotates. The first drive feature rotates the first drive shaft. |
| US08640784B2 |
Turf aerator with single journal bearing adapters
A turf aerator including a plurality of rotary hoes (39) that are supported along a drive shaft (41). Each rotary hoe (39) has a single journal bearing adapter (60) including a bearing support sleeve (61) with a cylindrical outer surface oriented at an angle with respect to the axis of rotation of the drive shaft so as to wobble the rotary hoes laterally in response to the rotation of the drive shaft. |
| US08640779B2 |
Mud pulser actuation
A system and method for transmitting mud pulse signals in a downhole environment may utilize a shape memory alloy. In one embodiment, a mud pulser system includes a valve; a wire comprising shape memory alloy (SMA), and operable to have a first shape at a first temperature and a second shape at a second temperature; a thermal energy source to heat the wire from the first temperature to the second temperature; and a valve poppet coupled to the wire, wherein the valve poppet is extended to close the valve when the wire is in the first shape and wherein the valve poppet is retracted to open the valve when the wire is in the second shape. |
| US08640777B2 |
Expandable anchoring mechanism
A bridging hanger with an expandable anchoring mechanism lands on a casing hanger in a subsea wellhead and actuates to anchor to the casing hanger. The anchoring mechanism includes a tubular main body, and a tubular sealing sleeve. The tubular sealing sleeve is coaxial with and mounted on an exterior diameter portion of the tubular main body. The body is moveable from an upper run-in position to a lower set position relative to the sealing sleeve. The anchoring mechanism also includes a first and second locking ring, both carried by the sealing sleeve. The first locking ring engages a profile within an interior of the casing hanger in response to movement of the main body from the run-in to the set position. The second locking ring locks the tubular main body in the set position in response to movement of the main body from the run-in to the set position. |
| US08640770B1 |
End ring for use with swell packers
An end ring having a first ring with an inner diameter, a second ring with the inner diameter and a thickness 25 percent greater than the first ring; a shoulder with a sloped outer surface connecting the first ring to the second ring; a plurality of flutes formed in an outer surface of the end ring, a plurality of fastener holes formed in the first and second rings, wherein the end ring either slides over a first end of a base pipe and fastens together the base pipe and edges of a rubber tubular surrounding the base pipe; or slides over a first end of a frac tubular and fastens edges of a frac sleeve to the frac tubular. The invention includes a swell packer and a frac tubular having the end rings. |
| US08640768B2 |
Sintered polycrystalline diamond tubular members
In one aspect of the present invention, an external tubular member comprises an external outside surface and an external inside surface joined by an external wall thickness. The external wall thickness comprises external sintered polycrystalline diamond. An internal member comprises an internal outside surface and an internal width. The internal width comprises internal sintered polycrystalline diamond. The external inside surface is adjacent to the internal outside surface. |
| US08640767B2 |
Push / pull system and support structure for snubbing unit on a rig floor
A support structure for use on a rig floor and for supporting a unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead comprises a support plate adapted to securely mount the support structure to said unit, a passage in the support plate of sufficient diameter to allow tubular components to pass therethrough, a plurality of rig engaging members and at least one tensile member mount. The unit used to manipulate tubular components through a wellhead may be a compact snubbing unit or may be a push/pull unit. The support structure may further comprise a worker platform to support a worker above the rig floor. Various push/pull system embodiments. |
| US08640765B2 |
Twisted conduit for geothermal heating and cooling systems
The present invention relates to a conduit for use in a geothermal heating and cooling system wherein said conduit comprises 2 or more pipes, wherein said 2 or more pipes are twisted together, wherein further that said 2 or more twisted pipes are twisted around a central pipe, further provided that the functions of said central pipe include, but are not limited to, serving as a conduit for a tremie pipe, serving as a support pipe, serving as an insulating pipe or serving as a tremie pipe. |
| US08640764B2 |
Fluid pressure vessel employing filter bags
A flow through fluid pressure vessel of the type containing filter bags formed by a tubular shell, a one-piece cast bottom closure with an integral outlet port fitting welded to one end of the shell, a one-piece cast combination bulkhead and flange ring welded to the opposite end of the shell, a cast inlet fitting inserted through an aperture in the shell and connected to an inlet opening through the bulkhead and welded to the shell aperture. A cast closure/lid forms an inlet plenum with the bulkhead and is releasably sealed over the flange ring. |
| US08640760B2 |
Ultrasonic welding machine and method of aligning an ultrasonic welding horn relative to an anvil
An ultrasonic welding machine and method are provided. The machine includes an ultrasonic welding horn operably coupled to a housing. The machine further includes an anvil operably coupled to the housing. The machine further includes a removable collar assembly that is coupled around a portion of an outer surface of the ultrasonic welding horn. The removable collar assembly has at least first and second set screws that contact the housing such that when at least one of the first and second set screws are moved inwardly toward the housing, the removable collar assembly rotates the ultrasonic welding horn to align the ultrasonic welding horn relative to the anvil. |
| US08640756B2 |
Machine for manufacturing personal sanitary items
Personal sanitary items are manufactured by a machine comprising a first feed system (2) directing a first continuous web (3) of material along a given feed path (P), a device (9) serving to make a succession of absorbent pads and apply the single pads to the first web (3) of material, and a second feed system (19) supplying a second continuous web (20) of material that is bonded ultimately to the first web (3), with the pads sandwiched between, to produce a continuous succession of sanitary items. The pad-making device (9) comprises at least one cutter (12) by which a continuous band (11) of absorbent material is divided up to produce the succession of pads, and the feed path (P) follows a convoluted trajectory substantially of “S” configuration. |
| US08640754B2 |
Run flat tire
A side wall reinforced run flat tire, wherein a second carcass layer that does not reach a bead core is disposed along the outer peripheral surface of a carcass layer. A position of an outer peripheral edge of a bead filler, a relationship between a rubber thickness Gc of the inner side and a rubber thickness Ga of an outer side taken on the line X normal to the rim line and centered on the carcass layer, a relationship between the rubber thicknesses Ga and Gb of the side wall rubber in an upper region of a bead portion, and a position of a folded up end of the carcass layer are each stipulated. |
| US08640753B2 |
Tire having a structural element reinforced with a hybrid yarn
A tire includes at least one structural element which includes at least one reinforcing element, which includes at least one hybrid yarn, the at least one hybrid yarn including a plurality of filaments obtained from at least one first multifilament yarn having a first initial tangent modulus and at least one second multifilament yarn having a second initial tangent modulus, the first and the second initial tangent modulus being different from each other, each one of the first and the second multifilament yarns including a plurality of individual filaments, the individual filaments of each one of the first and the second multifilament yarns being at least partially intermixed with each other. Preferably, the tire is a high performance or ultra high performance tire, or a tire suitable for being employed in sporting contests, such as, track motor races, or a tire suitable for sports utility vehicles. |
| US08640752B2 |
Celestial body running vehicle wheel
A wheel for a celestial running vehicle which enables the celestial running vehicle to sufficiently exhibit its desired running performance by maintaining a sufficient ground contact length, as well as reducing the wheel maximum width and the number of the sliding portions. The celestial body vehicle wheel (1) is mounted on a celestial body running vehicle and includes, a hub body (2) rotatable about a rotation axis, a grounding member (3) arranged radially outside of the hub body (2) and rotatable about the rotation axis while contacting a celestial body surface, and a load bearing device (4) arranged between the hub body (2) and the grounding member (3) for bearing radial load, the load bearing device (4) including, a plurality of first support members (5) arranged circumferentially to extend radially outward from the hub body (2) and terminate short of the grounding member (3), a plurality of second bearing members (6) arranged circumferentially to extend radially inward from the grounding member (3) and terminate short of the hub body (2), and elastic members (7) for connecting the first support members (5) and the second support members (6) to each other, wherein, under the radial load, the elastic members (7) are elastically deformed, and the first support members (5) and the second support members (6) are relatively displaced in directions approaching each other. |
| US08640750B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having shoulder blocks and crown blocks
A pneumatic tire comprises: an axially inner circumferential row of crown blocks disposed on each side of the tire equator; and an axially outermost circumferential row of shoulder blocks disposed axially outside thereof. The crown blocks are circumferentially divided by alternate first and second crown axial grooves. The shoulder blocks are circumferentially divided by alternate first and second shoulder axial grooves. The first shoulder axial groove has a groove width of not less than 3.5 mm. The first crown axial groove has a groove width of not less than 2.0 mm. The second shoulder axial groove comprises an axially innermost sipe-like part having a groove width of 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and an axially outer main part having a groove width of not less than 3.5 mm. The second crown axial groove comprises an axially innermost sipe-like part having a groove width of 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and an axially outer main part having a groove width of not less than 2.0 mm. |
| US08640748B2 |
Multiple liquid dispenser
The present invention provides a multiple liquid dispenser having an upper section for receiving ice to form a cooling chamber. The cooling chamber has a spiral passageway extending through the ice having a plurality of layers of passageways. The spiral passageway has an upper end for receiving the liquid to be chilled by the surrounding ice and a lower end connected to multiple tubes for distributing the chilled liquid. The lower section has multiple liquid dispensers connected to the multiple tubes for receiving and dispensing the chilled liquid from the multiple liquid dispensers. The multiple liquid dispensers are spaced around the periphery of the lower section and has valves for opening and closing the liquid dispensers for dispensing the chilled liquid. A vertical stand is provided for supporting the upper and lower sections. A turntable is also provided for receiving the mounting stand and for receiving a plurality of drinking glasses for receiving the dispensed chilled liquid from the multiple liquid dispensers. |
| US08640742B2 |
Dispensing apparatus
A dispensing apparatus for delivering fluid or liquid to a container (e.g. a bottle), has a container holding device and a fluid delivery system delivering fluid to a dispensing outlet under control of an actuation member, which causes the fluid delivery system to deliver fluid in response to movement of the actuation member from its start position. A dispensing lock has a first position in which it blocks movement of the actuation member from its start position, and a second position in which it permits movement of the actuation member. A release member that releases the dispensing lock includes a movable release member which is moved by the container, during its insertion into the refill position, so as to release the dispensing lock by bringing the dispensing lock to said second position, thus enabling fluid to be delivered. |
| US08640740B2 |
Embedded metallic tubes with compression fit and method for manufacturing the same
A metallic tube, including a first cylindrical member, which is formed from a flat metal strip, and a second cylindrical member, which is formed from a flat metal strip, wherein the first cylindrical member is embedded within the second cylindrical member. |
| US08640738B2 |
Multi-purpose tubing apparatus
An improved tubing device, preferably for use in the medical industry is provided. The tubing device provides a seamless transport path by using the tubing itself as the transport means without any other internally wetted parts, or connections, to provide a substantial reduction in the number of fluid contact components, and eliminate the need for cutting tubes into segments to be later bonded via tubing connectors. This can reduce the risk of contamination of the transported materials and can also reduce the use of chemicals such as adhesives and bonding agents. |
| US08640736B2 |
Apparatus for pressure testing a plumbing system
An apparatus for pressure testing a plumbing system has a hollow body defining an interior cavity. At least one interior sealing surface is provided on the body within the interior cavity, encircling one of the pipe connections. A rigid plug is provided having at least one exterior sealing surface. The plug is lowered on a shaft into the interior cavity. A plug receiver receives the plug and positions the at least one exterior sealing surface of the plug into sealing engagement with the at least one interior sealing surface. |
| US08640731B2 |
Flow rate control device
A flow rate control device includes: a fuel gas supply channel having a flow rate adjusting valve; a thermal type mass flow rate sensor arranged in the supply channel; a calculation unit which calculates a thermal quantity flow rate of the fuel gas defined by a product of a volume flow rate of the fuel gas and a heat generation quantity per unit volume of the fuel gas according to an output from the thermal type sensor; and a flow rate control unit which controls the open degree of the flow rate adjusting valve according to a difference between a control target value for controlling the thermal quantity flow rate and the thermal quantity flow rate calculated by the calculation unit. |
| US08640728B2 |
Fire hydrant control valve
A valve control device includes an operating stem, a valve top plate, a valve seat rubber, a valve bottom plate, and a valve seat ring. The valve top plate has a conical base with at least three stabilizer arms extending therefrom. Each of the at least three stabilizer arms has a flat outer surface. The valve bottom plate secures the valve seat rubber between the valve bottom plate and a flat bottom surface of the valve top plate. The valve bottom plate, the valve seat rubber, and the conical base are mounted on the operating stem. The valve seat ring has multiple slots, with each of the slots corresponding to one of the at least three stabilizer arms. A standpipe drain system, a method of draining a standpipe, and a locking fire hydrant with a valve access channel drain also are described. |
| US08640720B1 |
Large parasol with a textile fabric roof
In a large parasol with a textile fabric roof with adjustable canopy strut ends for the attachment of the canopy fabric, in order to avoid the attaching seams of the canopy fabric from being openly exposed to the UV radiation and to prevent the connection to the fabric roof from becoming displaced or twisted inadvertently either in the open state or in the closed and relaxed state of the parasol, welt bulges are attached to the parasol roof edge along the seams of the parasol roof parts, the extensions comprising welt grooves, the welt bulges engaging in the welt grooves of the extensions and the welt bulges being held at the outer end of the extensions by means of a screw. |
| US08640715B2 |
Nail care device
A nail care apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a nail care apparatus comprises a housing, a blade extending from the housing to a distal end, a motor disposed in the housing and operatively driving the blade to reciprocate in two parallel planes, and a power source providing power to the motor. The distal end of the blade may narrow to a peaked distal edge. |
| US08640711B2 |
Method for treating an asthma attack
A method for treating the lung during an acute episode of reversible chronic obstructive pulmonary disease such as an asthma attack. The method comprises transferring energy to an airway wall of an airway such that a diameter of the airway is increased. The energy may be transferred to the airway wall prior to, during or after an asthma attack. The energy may be transferred in an amount sufficient to temporarily or permanently increase the diameter of the airway. The method may be performed while the airway is open, closed or partially closed. |
| US08640706B2 |
Interface mechanism between a drape and a handle
A surgical device for use in positioning an instrument for use in a surgical procedure. The surgical device comprises: a mechanical positioning mechanism configured to couple with an instrument outside of a patient's body and to move the instrument relative to said patient's body; a control mechanism comprising a detachable control handle configured to be detachably coupled with the mechanical positioning mechanism and is sealingly coupled with a drape interface mechanism of a sterile drape, the sterile drape being configured for isolating a portion of the surgical device within a sterile environment, the drape interface mechanism comprising a ring defining an opening through the sterile drape; and a connector operatively coupled with the control mechanism and the mechanical positioning mechanism and configured for causing the mechanical positioning mechanism to move the instrument by transmitting force applied by a human to the control mechanism through the connector. |
| US08640704B2 |
Flat-fold filtering face-piece respirator having structural weld pattern
A flat-fold filtering face piece respirator 10 that comprises a mask body 12 that has a transversely-extending line of demarcation 22 and a longitudinal axis 34. First and second weld patterns 32a, 32b are disposed above and not traversing the line of demarcation on each side of the longitudinal axis 34, respectively. Third and fourth weld patterns 32c, 32d are disposed below and not crossing the line of demarcation 22 on each side of the longitudinal axis 34, respectively. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth weld patterns 32a-32d is a two-dimensional enclosed pattern. This combined weld patterns can provide a mask body that exhibits crush resistance without the need for additional or heavier layers, which may cause higher pressure drops across the filtering structure. |
| US08640700B2 |
Method for selecting target settings in a medical device
The disclosure provides a method for controlling the delivery of a breathing gas to a patient. The method may include regulating the delivery of the breathing gas delivered to the patient, determining a value for a first ventilation parameter, comparing the determined value of the first ventilation parameter to a pre-determined target value for the first ventilation parameter, automatically adjusting the breathing gas delivered to the patient in response to the comparison between the determined value of the first ventilation parameter and the pre-determined target value for the first ventilation parameter, and automatically determining a new target value for the first ventilation parameter based at least in part on the determined value of the first ventilation parameter. |
| US08640698B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring the condition of a patient with diabetes
According to certain example embodiments of this invention, there is provided an apparatus for treatment of a patient with both sleep-disordered breathing and diabetes. A PAP device may be configured to provide a supply of pressurized breathable gas. At least one glycemia sensor also may be provided. A controller may be operable to receive a signal from the at least one glycemia detector and may be further operable to analyze the signal for an indication of a glycemia abnormality (e.g., hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, diabetic coma, etc.). Optionally, when the signal indicates that the patient is experiencing a diabetic event, an alert may be generated and/or a drug delivery unit may administer an appropriate treatment to the patient. |
| US08640697B2 |
Combination enhanced therapy
A Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) device includes a flow generator that generates a supply of pressurized air. The flow generator includes a programmable controller. The programmable controller is adapted to allow continuous access to at least one active operating mode and selective access to at least one dormant operating mode. The programmable controller includes a mode control system adapted to receive a data signal to control the selective access to the at least one dormant operating mode. |
| US08640694B2 |
Device for dispensing a fluid product
A fluid dispenser device comprising: a body (10); at least one individual reservoir (21); movable support means (50) that receive at least one reservoir (21), and that are displaceable between a non-dispensing position and a dispensing position; reservoir-opening means (80) for opening a reservoir when said opening means are actuated; loading means (800) for urging said movable support means towards said dispensing position; blocking means (100) for retaining said movable support means in the non-dispensing position; and inhalation trigger means (60); said blocking means (100) comprising a blocking element (110) that is movable between a blocking position and an unblocking position, said blocking element (110) co-operating with a projection (501) that is secured to movable support means (50). |
| US08640690B2 |
Interior solar heater
A solar heater includes a plurality of suspended vertical components that cover at least a portion of an interior side of a window and have open top and bottom ends. Each suspended vertical component has a heat absorbing body position within the transparent sheath. The heat absorbing body is located a first spaced distance from the inner sheath surface of a first side portion of the sheath and a second spaced distance from the inner sheath surface of a second side portion of the sheath. The open bottom end of the sheath receives cool ambient air that is heated while passing between the heat absorbing body and the inner sheath surface of the first side portion and between the heat absorbing body and the inner sheath surface of the second side portion. The open top end of the sheath exhausts the heated air to an interior space of a building. |
| US08640689B1 |
Direct-absorption receiver
Embodiments provide a solar thermal receiver comprising: (a) a first containing member transparent to sunlight; (b) a second containing member comprising an inner surface reflective of sunlight; (c) an inlet proximate to the first containing member that is configured to receive injected heat transfer fluid; and (d) an outlet distal from the first containing member, where the first containing member and the second containing member together form a vessel configured to conduct injected heat transfer fluid from the inlet to the outlet under hydrostatic pressure. |
| US08640688B2 |
Heat collection roofing system and method for collecting heat within a roof
Disclosed is a heat collection system for a roof, the system including a roof deck, a membrane upwardly adjacent of the roof deck; a fluid channel disposed between the membrane and the roof deck, the fluid channel having a defined entry port and a defined exit port, the entry port and the exit port being disposed in fluid communication via the fluid channel. |
| US08640685B2 |
Concrete saw
A concrete saw having a geared assembly for rotating a cutting blade is described. The saw utilizes a longitudinally oriented engine for rotating the blade. Various additional features and improvements are described including a particular belt tensioner assembly, an indicator and control system for cutting blade depth, a handle adjustment and locking system, and provisions for control of blade water are described. |
| US08640681B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine that can prevent, for instance, an exhaust purification catalyst from being damaged when the employed fuel is changed to a fuel having different properties during an operation. If fuel learning is incomplete while a refueling record exists, the throttle opening of an internal combustion engine operable on a fuel that is obtained by mixing alcohol and gasoline at an arbitrary ratio is limited. Limiting the throttle opening makes it possible to avoid an entry into an operation region where fuel increase is performed. This prevents air-fuel ratio feedback control from being stopped when a fuel change occurs. Consequently, the use of an improper air-fuel ratio that may damage the catalyst can be definitely avoided. |
| US08640679B2 |
Method of model-based multivariable control of EGR and boost for internal combustion engines
A method to control an exhaust gas recirculation and a manifold air pressure in an engine includes utilizing a decoupling matrix within a multiple input and multiple output controller to determine an exhaust gas recirculation command and a manifold air pressure command, wherein the decoupling matrix is configured based upon a diagonally dominant model of the engine compensated by the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the manifold air pressure command. The exhaust gas recirculation and manifold air pressure are controlled based upon the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the determined manifold air pressure command. |
| US08640675B2 |
Fuel injector provided with a metering servovalve of a balanced type for an internal-combustion engine
A fuel injector has an injector body and a control rod, which is movable in the injector body along an axis for controlling opening/closing of a nozzle that injects fuel in an engine cylinder; the injector body houses a metering servovalve, provided with a control chamber and with an open/close element of a balanced type, axial sliding of which causes a variation in pressure in the control chamber; the metering servovalve comprises a valve body made of two pieces coaxially coupled to one another via a deformable ring, which defines also a gasket for guaranteeing fluid tightness between the two pieces and maintains in a fixed position a disk on which a calibrated restriction is made. |
| US08640674B2 |
Bi-fuel engine
A surge tank 52 is placed above an engine main body 4. Plural intake runners 51 include curved portions 51C, respectively, which are placed on one side of the engine main body 4, and sloped portions 51D extending from the surge tank 52 to the curved portions 51C. An air cleaner 7 is placed above the sloped portions 51D. A liquid fuel injection unit 8 is placed in a space between the engine main body 4 and the intake runners 51. A gaseous fuel injection unit 11 is placed in a gap between the surge tank 52 and the air cleaner 7. Gaseous fuel injection valves 103 are held by a bracket on a gaseous fuel delivery pipe 10A in a way that they are placed under the air cleaner, each of them being placed in a space between the adjacent two of the sloped portions 51D. |
| US08640673B2 |
Fuel pipe assembly and clamping means
A fuel pipe assembly for supplying fuel to a fuel injector located within a bore of an engine cylinder head comprises a tube nut for connecting the fuel pipe to the fuel injector and a securing arrangement comprising a locking nut and a deformable clamp member for securing the fuel pipe within the tube nut. The tube nut comprises a tubular member defining an axial bore to receive the fuel pipe, a distal end shaped for cooperation with the head of the fuel pipe, and a proximal end having an attachment mechanism for engaging a compatible attachment mechanism of the locking nut. The locking nut has an axial bore to receive the fuel pipe, and an attachment mechanism for engaging a compatible attachment mechanism of the tube nut. The clamp member defines a bore to receive the fuel pipe and is deformable under compression. In a first state of engagement, the locking nut and tube nut define a volume therebetween that accommodates the clamp member in an unstrained configuration and the fuel pipe is able to move laterally. In a second state of engagement, the clamp member is compressed between the locking nut and tube nut into a strained configuration such that lateral movement of the fuel pipe is constrained. |
| US08640669B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
To provide a piston for an internal combustion engine including a skirt which causes a relatively small frictional resistance and can maintain a favorable frictional property over an extended period of time. In a piston for an internal combustion engine having a skirt 4 on whose sliding surface a resin coating layer is deposited, the skirt 4 comprises a thin walled portion 51 located in a circumferentially middle part thereof and a pair of thick walled portions 52 provided on either lateral side of the thin walled portion 51. The resin coating layer 44 at least in the part thereof deposited on the thick walled portions 52 is formed with a plurality of dimples 45. The skirt may comprise a skirt main body 41 extending axially at a fixed distance from the central axial line of the piston in an axially middle part thereof, and a first reduced diameter portion 42 depending from the lower end of the skirt main body and having a progressively smaller diameter toward a lower end thereof. The dimples 45 may be arranged along a first boundary 6 between the skirt main body and first reduced diameter portion. |
| US08640666B2 |
Spark plug for internal combustion engine
A spark plug includes a center electrode extending along an axial line, a ground electrode, and a noble metal tip. A center axis of the noble metal tip is displaced from a center axis of the ground electrode toward a base-end side in the axial line. The ground electrode includes an outer layer and an inner layer, and a distal end of the inner layer is closer to the axial line than a base end of the ground electrode. An overlap area between the inner layer and the noble metal tip occupies a ratio of 25% or more in a projective plane defined by projecting, along the center axis, a plane of the ground electrode viewed from a distal-end face on a cross section of the ground electrode in which a maximum cross-sectional area of the inner layer is achieved, among cross sections orthogonal to the center axis. |
| US08640665B2 |
Method for igniting fuel using a corona discharge
The invention relates to a method for igniting a fuel/air mixture in a combustion chamber of a cyclically operating internal combustion engine using an ignition electrode constitutes a capacitance in cooperation with a wall of the combustion chamber that is at ground potential, wherein an electric oscillating circuit, which is connected to a secondary side of an electric DC/AC converter and the ignition electrode, is excited by way of a primary voltage applied to a primary side of the electric DC/AC converter, wherein the excitation of the oscillating circuit is controlled such that a corona discharge igniting the fuel/air mixture is created in the combustion chamber at the ignition electrode. According to the invention, the primary voltage is controlled to a specified setpoint value which is changed during the combustion duration of the corona discharge and is dependent upon the crankshaft angle and on at least one characteristic value of the fuel/air mixture. |
| US08640664B2 |
Engine that is equipped with variable valve device
An engine includes a hydraulic pressure lash adjuster (HLA) pivotally supporting an end of a swing arm and having a valve supporting the other end of the swing arm, wherein the hydraulic pressure lash adjuster includes a housing, a plunger of which one end portion thereof may be slidably inserted into the inside of the housing, the other end portion of which extends outwards and supports the end of the swing arm by selectively moving upwards or downwards in a length direction of the housing, a stopper pin slidably mounted in a chamber of the plunger so as to selectively lock the plunger to the housing such that the plunger cannot move in the housing, and a hydraulic pressure supply portion that selectively supplies one side of the stopper pin with a hydraulic pressure in the chamber of the plunger to move the stopper pin toward the housing. |
| US08640662B2 |
Valve timing control apparatus and method
A valve timing control apparatus for a combustion engine according to which a rotational member, such as a sprocket, is driven by said combustion engine, a rotor is mechanically coupled with a camshaft for controlling opening and closing of cylinder valves of said combustion engine, a first configuration is provided in which the rotor is locked to the rotational member; and a second configuration is provided in which the rotor is unlocked from said rotational member. In another aspect an operating method of said valve timing control apparatus for adjusting a valve timing of a combustion engine is provided. The apparatus controls a relative rotation between a camshaft and an output shaft, which can either be prevented or permitted. |
| US08640660B2 |
Continuously variable valve actuation apparatus for an internal combustion engine
The apparatus includes a driving shaft with a first gear wheel, a frame able to rotate within limits about the driving shaft, a servo mechanism for controlling the angular position of the frame, a valve-lifting crankshaft with a second gear wheel supported by the frame, a rocker cam assembly, a connecting rod pivotally connected to the valve-lifting crankshaft and the rocker cam assembly, a cam follower operatively connected to a charge exchange valve, and a spring for urging the cam follower against a cam lobe. The engine rotates the driving shaft. The first gear wheel rotates the second gearwheel and the valve-lifting crankshaft. The connecting rod transmits motion from the valve-lifting crankshaft to the rocker cam assembly. Stroke, lifting duration, and phase can be controlled by the angular position of the frame. |
| US08640656B1 |
Self-sustaining boiler system
A self-sustaining boiler system for generating usable energy and heat without creating pollution. The self-sustaining boiler system includes a boiler capable of generating efficient usable energy and heat, and also includes an exhaust purifying assembly being in fluid communication to the boiler for removing the pollutants from the exhaust generated by the boiler, and further includes a fuel source assembly being in fluid communication to the boiler for providing fuel to the boiler. |
| US08640654B2 |
Attachment for fence system and method of use
An attachment and method for a fence system to prevent a pet from escaping a fenced comprising at least one first support member adapted to be attached substantially horizontally to at least a portion of the fence system, a plurality of second support members adapted to be attached substantially vertically to the at least one first support member, and a plurality of inserts adapted to be received within the plurality of second support members. Each of the plurality of inserts is capable of extending out of a lower portion of the each of the plurality of second support members upon digging the fenced area by the pet animal such that the extended plurality of inserts block the dug area to prevent the pet animal from escaping the fenced area. |
| US08640653B2 |
Twitch toy
A motorized cat toy having a suspended teaser toy at the end of a detachable stretchable string connected to a flexible swing arm biased against a waveguide within a housing having a programmable electronic control, a gearbox with meshing gears including one spur gear on the rotor of the motor to provide control of the teaser toy movement to include a twitch and other erratic movements pleasing to a cat. |
| US08640652B2 |
Modular pet house and entertainment system
Embodiments of the invention relate to a customizable modular pet house and entertainment system. In one general embodiment of the invention, a pet house comprises a module formed from a sheet of self-supporting material. The module comprises a top panel, a bottom panel, and four side panels. At least one of the panels may have at least one of a removable transition panel, a removable door panel, and perimeter of a removable window panel. Optional accessories include a top accessory panel, a side accessory panel, and an accessory bracket. More than one modular pet house may be joined together to form an extended structure. Embodiments of the invention have interior spaces and apertures sized for admittance of a common house cat. |
| US08640651B2 |
Artificial fish habitat employing fish hiding units
Fish hiding units are discloses herein, which may comprise a sinkable container comprising at least one open end; a plurality of elongated and substantially flat projection members comprising a body and opposing ends inserted at one end into the open end of the container; and an adhesive substance disposed in the container for attaching the projection members inside the container. |
| US08640649B2 |
Liquid-absorbing sheet for animal litter box
An animal litter box system that can be used for a long time about 3 to 10 days and can prevent the occurrence of undesirable odors is to be provided, particularly to provide a liquid-absorbing sheet used for the animal litter box system. A liquid-absorbing sheet used for an animal litter box is characterized by comprising an antimicrobial and bacteriostatic part having both an antimicrobial property and a bacteriostatic property; or both of an antimicrobial part having an antimicrobial property and a bacteriostatic part having a bacteriostatic property. |
| US08640648B2 |
Media apparatus
The present description relates to a media apparatus that can function as an animal litter box. In one case, the media apparatus includes a media storage portion configured to define a media receiving volume. The media apparatus also includes an animal support portion that defines an opening proximate the media receiving volume. |
| US08640646B2 |
Robot and method for milking a cow by this robot
The present invention relates to a robot (6) for moving a milking cup or milking cups (7) from a first resting position to a second operational position or vice versa, in which second position it connects to a cows' teat or teats for collecting milk, wherein it comprises a frame (9), which frame supports a movable arm (10) that has a free extremity (11) at which it is provided with a gripper or grippers (12) for the milking cup or cups (7). |
| US08640643B2 |
Method for controlling drug loading in a medical device
Systems and relative methods for regulating the loading capacity of a coating sleeve affixed to an outer surface of an implantable medical device to control an amount of antimicrobial agent delivered with the implantable medical device. A coating sleeve defines fibril void spaces into which therapeutic agents are loaded. A clamp is positioned on the coating sleeve to adjust the volume of the fibril void spaces so as to regulate the loading capacity of the coating sleeve. |
| US08640642B2 |
Apparatus and method for internally lining an elongate member
An apparatus for internally lining an elongate member, the apparatus including an outer barrel portion and an inner mold head, an annular mold cavity defined between the outer barrel portion and the inner mold body, and means for providing a settable material to the mold cavity wherein the settable material is injected into the mold cavity as the elongate member is forced past the cavity, internally lining the elongate member. |
| US08640640B2 |
Inflatable hull configuration and connection for a multihull vessel
Inflatable hull configuration and connection for a multihull vessel. The inflatable hulls have a longitudinal structural member fastened to the top of the inflatable hulls, with a central body of the multihull vessel supported on the longitudinal structural members by forward and stern legs. The forward legs support the forward part of the central body through a ball joint that allows the forward legs to rotate as a unit relative to the central body, and have their lower ends attached to the forward part of the longitudinal members, each through a spring supported ball joint. The stern legs are each rigidly coupled to the central body, with their lower ends connected to the aft part of the longitudinal members to allow rotation about a vertical axis and a transverse axis, but not the longitudinal axis. A detailed embodiment is disclosed. |
| US08640637B2 |
Sewing-machine bobbin thread tension controller, and sewing machine
There is provided a sewing-machine bobbin thread tension controller capable of elaborately, accurately controlling bobbin thread tension without depending on frictional force. A bobbin thread tension controller includes an outer shuttle, a middle shuttle presser, a middle shuttle, a bobbin thread tension control mechanism, a shuttle actuation unit, and a bobbin. The middle shuttle has a magnet. A magnet is disposed, in close proximity to the magnet, on an arm attached to a rotary shaft of a shuttle actuation motor provided in the shuttle actuation unit. The middle shuttle is rotated by rotating the magnet by means of the motor. Further, a rotary disc is provided, in close proximity to the middle shuttle, on a rotary shaft of a bobbin thread tension control motor of the bobbin thread tension control mechanism and is provided with a magnet. A magnet is disposed on a part of the bobbin facing the rotary disc. |
| US08640634B2 |
Combustion air system for recovery boilers, burning spent liquors from pulping processes
An arrangement is disclosed for supplying an air jet form to the furnace of a recovery boiler, where the furnace has a front wall, a rear wall and side walls. Black liquor spraying devices are disposed on the furnace walls on one or several levels of the furnace. A plurality of air ports are located at several horizontal elevations for introducing air into the furnace from an air supply. In the arrangement for the secondary air flows, at least two horizontal air levels at different elevations are arranged above the lower primary levels and below the black liquor sprayer. Secondary air is supplied from two opposite walls. The secondary air ports on each of said first and second horizontal elevations comprise air ports for each horizontal elevation that project a pattern of large air jets into the furnace from said opposite walls and said secondary air ports further comprise a plurality of secondary air ports on at least one of the elevations that project smaller air jets into the furnace. |
| US08640620B1 |
Non-inertial safe and arm device
A safety and arming device may include a substrate and a frame fixed to the substrate. The frame may include a travel slot, a head socket, first and second gas expansion chambers having respective first and second nozzles, and first and second safety catch surfaces disposed adjacent to the respective first and second nozzles. A slider may be translatably disposed in the travel slot in the frame. The slider may include a latching head operable to latch in the head socket in an armed position of the device, a storage cavity for storing an explosive charge, first and second cantilevered arms disposed axially apart from each other and angled outwardly from the slider, and first and second deactivation cavities disposed adjacent to the respective first and second cantilevered arms. A spring may bias the slider away from the head socket. |
| US08640618B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus allows a print medium to be heated to a temperature equal to or higher than a condensation temperature of a refrigerant when the print medium is heated during a condensation process of a heat pump. The printing apparatus includes a heating unit for heating a print medium, and a conveying unit for conveying the print medium which has been heated by the heating unit. The heating unit includes a heat-pump mechanism. The heating unit heats the print medium by transferring heat generated by a condenser when the refrigerant is condensed by the condenser. The refrigerant flows along a conveying direction in which the print medium is conveyed by the conveying unit, and flows into the condenser at a downstream side thereof in the conveying direction and out from the condenser at an upstream side thereof in the conveying direction. |
| US08640615B2 |
Screen printing machine and method for controlling inside temperature of screen printing machine
An object of the invention to provide a screen printing machine allows, during maintenance work for one printing device, the other printing device to continue its screen printing work, and a method for controlling an inside temperature of a screen printing machine. A space surrounded by a base (12) and a cover member (11) is divided into two portions by a partition member (14), and two printing devices (13) are accommodated in two working compartments (15), respectively, which are defined by the base (12), the cover member (11) and the partition member (14), whereby temperature-controlled air is blown into each of the working compartments (15) via an air pipe (71) which branches into two air vents (72) opened to the respective working compartments (15). |
| US08640613B1 |
Automatic waste compactor drain system
The present invention is directed to an improved trash compactor using an automatic drain operation associated with the unloading placement of the compactor on the support pad. In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a pad is provided with a pad stop. The waste compactor is fitted with an extending arm that operates through a mechanical connection to open a waste gate valve when the extending arm is pushed against the pad stop during placement of the compactor on the pad. The arm is spring loaded so that the valve is automatically closed when the compactor is removed from the pad and the arm is separated from contact with the pad stop. |
| US08640605B2 |
Gas venting system
Beverage making equipment, water heating equipment, and methods for using such equipment which use heated water and dispenses heated water from a heated water reservoir. The apparatus includes a water line extending from the heated water reservoir to a dispensing point, the line having a positive slope between the reservoir and dispensing point. A vent tube may also be used communicating with and coupled to the line with a return passage communicating with the vent and reservoir. The method of dispensing water from a heated water reservoir involves dispensing water from the reservoir at one level and delivering water to a dispensing point at a second level positioned at a positive dimension above the dispensing port of the heated water reservoir. the method may also include providing a vent tube coupled to and communicating with the line for removing gas which evolves from water passing through the line and returning the gas to the reservoir. |
| US08640593B2 |
Damping suspension with an up-lift capability for an add-on armor system
A damping suspension for an add-on armor system of an ACV (Armored Combat Vehicle), comprises mounting means for mounting said add-on armor system to an ACV; and damping means coupled to said mounting means and to said add-on armor system's armor means, in order to damp vibrations and restrain shocks unto which said armor means might be exposed as an outcome of said ACV's travel; and wherein said damping suspension is characterized by that said damping suspension includes a device of the ‘wire rope isolator’ type. |
| US08640591B2 |
Transparent armor with improved multi-hit performance by use of a thin cover glass
The disclosure is directed to a transparent armor laminate having a glass, glass-ceramic or ceramic strike face layer, one or a plurality of glass, glass-ceramic (“GC”), ceramic (“C”) or polymeric (“P”) backing layer behind the strike face layer, one or a plurality of spall catcher (“SC”) layers behind the backing layer(s), and a thin cover glass layer laminated to the strike face, the thin layer being the first layer to be impacted by any incoming projectile or debris. The cover glass has a thickness ≦3 mm. In another embodiment the cover glass thickness is ≦1 mm. Additionally, a defrosting/defogging element is laminated between the cover glass and the strike face. |
| US08640588B2 |
Powered weed trimmer cutting head and method
A generally cylindrical cutting head for a weed cutting machine has blades that are exposed and lifted off of the head when an upper portion is rotated, with respect to a lower portion and/or a cap, without tools and without disassembly of the structure. A lock ensures that the upper portion does not open until desired, by a rigid plate or aim extending, in the locked position, through portions of both the upper portion and the lower portion, or through portions of both the upper portion and a cap portion. The lock plate/arm may extend into the cutting head from the top, bottom, or side. When pushed inward, the lock plate or arm moves to no longer reside in both upper and lower portions, or both upper and cap portions, to free the upper portion to rotate relative to the lower portion and cap. |
| US08640587B2 |
Hand-operated cutting apparatus
A hand-operated cutting apparatus including a main frame at least including a front wall, a base wall and two side walls, in which an opening is formed in the front wall, and a rack formed on an upper surface of the base wall along the length of the main frame, a bracket disposed between the side walls of the main frame and movable along the length of the main frame, a cutter provided in the front of the main frame and including a cutting blade located within the opening, and a squeezer attached to the front surface of the bracket facing to the cutter. The bracket includes a base, a handle pivotally provided on the base and a pusher arm pivotally provided on the handle, in which a lower end of the pusher arm is located between two teeth of the rack, and the pivot axis of the pusher arm on the handle departs from the pivot axis of the handle on the base towards the rear of the main frame. |
| US08640585B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing multiple images of a specimen
An apparatus for producing multiple images of a specimen, having a sliding microtome, is disclosed. The specimen is secured in a specimen holder, movably in a plane. A knife having a cutting edge is arranged above the specimen that is movable along a cutting direction. Provided on the side opposite the cutting edge of the knife is a microscope having a camera for acquiring a respective image of the just-produced cut surface of the specimen. |
| US08640584B2 |
Device for decelerating sheets to be placed on a stack, especially paper or cardboard sheets
An apparatus is provided for decelerating sheets which are to be placed on a stack. The apparatus comprises rotatably driven clamping elements, which are provided with clamping zones that intermittently reach to the feeding plane of the sheet when revolving. The apparatus further includes a mating element which is rotationally disposed on the opposite side of the conveying plane of the sheets such that a sheet can be clamped between the clamping zones and the mating element. The clamping elements are connected to an asymmetrical rotary drive unit while being equipped with ring segment-shaped clamping zones on a section of the circumference thereof. A deflecting device is also provided which deflects the rear edges of the sheet from the feeding plane in a downward direction arranged at a distance from and upstream of the clamping elements in the direction of travel of the sheets. |
| US08640581B2 |
Cutting machine for cutting mats
The invention relates to a cutting machine, in particular for cutting mats to size by means of a blade (21) arranged on a cutting head (8). The cutting head (8) can be displaced by means of a drive in at least two axes. The cutting-to-size of mats requires a vertical cutting angle (B-B) and an inclined cutting angle (C-C) in order to provide the mat cutout with the, in the main, usual bevel cut. In order to adjust the blade (21) from the first cutting angle (B-B) into the second cutting angle (C-C) or vice versa, the cutting head (8) is run up against a stop (17) arranged on the cutting machine and is brought into contact in such a way that a swivellable element (20) carrying the blade (21) is swivelled from one into the other cutting angle (B-B, C-C). This adjustment can thus take place in an automatically controlled manner, without an additional drive being required for this. |
| US08640578B2 |
Tool post assembly for quick displacement of a tool of a machine tool
A tool post assembly includes a tool post body adapted to be mounted on a machine tool, a carrier block coupled to and movable relative to the tool post body by means of a tenon-and-mortise structure, and a lever pivotally mounted on the tool post body and having a manually operable power end and a weight end which is coupled to the carrier block such that, when the power end is actuated, the carrier block is moved from a normal position to a lifted position so as to quickly displace a tool held thereby away from a workpiece. |
| US08640577B2 |
Turning spindle unit of multi-tasking machine
The present invention achieves improvement of an adjustment structure of a turning spindle in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.A turning spindle unit 100 includes a turning spindle base push-pull block 140 which adjusts a turning spindle base 110 fixed onto a bed 10 in the horizontal direction. The turning spindle base 110 includes a turning spindle push-pull block 180 to push and pull a turning spindle 60. A mounting seat 112 inclines at an angle to the horizontal plane. |
| US08640574B2 |
Radial foldout tool with multiple types of tools and bit storage
A device includes a body having a first end, a second end, and four faces. The device is configured to stand upright on the second end. A plurality of tools is stored against the four faces in a closed position. A first face and a second face each includes a bit storage that holds at least one socket. A third face includes a drive, a can opener, and a blade. The drive and the can opener rotate about a first rotatable mechanism coupled to the second end. The blade rotates about an insert coupled to the first end. A fourth face includes a first set of tool drivers that rotates about a second rotatable mechanism coupled to the second end and a second set of tool drivers that rotates about a third rotatable mechanism coupled to the first end. |
| US08640573B2 |
Ratchet wrench
A ratchet wrench for use in connection with medical instruments comprises a handle and a drive element which is rotatable around an axis (M) with respect to the handle. The wrench is adapted to tighten or loosen a respective element and a ratchet mechanism which is in connection with the drive element and which permits movement with respect to the handle in a first direction of rotation (R1) and blocks movement in the other direction of rotation (R2). The handle comprises a flat arm, wherein the ratchet mechanism is arranged on a bearing surface of the flat arm, and wherein the drive element extends through an opening in the flat arm in which opening the drive element is rotatably arranged. |
| US08640570B2 |
Flat protective cover with two degrees of freedom for tool machines
Flat protective cover (1) with two degrees of freedom for tool machines, which can be associated with an operating member (A) movable along at least two main directions (D1, D2), includes: at least a first flat covering element (2), operatively connected to the operating member (A); at least a second flat covering element (3); guide and retaining elements (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b) to mutually couple in a sliding way the covering elements, wherein the protective cover (1) further includes an intermediate frame (4) between the first (2) and second (3) flat covering element, arranged for allowing mutual sliding of the flat elements (2,3) along the two mutually orthogonal main directions (D1, D2), and the guide and retaining elements (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b) include pairs of linear guides (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) arranged for co-operating by mutual sliding with pairs of blades (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b). |
| US08640569B2 |
Freewheel structure
A freewheel structure includes a wheel frame and at least one weight block. The wheel frame has a central axle portion and a flange portion around an outer edge thereof. The axle portion is for insertion of an axle member. The weight block is selectively located between the axle portion and the flange portion, so that the weight block has a certain distance relative to axle portion. The freewheel will generate a greater centrifugal force when it is rotated at a high speed. The inertial effect of the present invention can be enhanced when the rotational speed is increasing progressively, so the curve of inertial weight is elongated obviously. The whole weight of the freewheel is reduced effectively. |
| US08640562B2 |
Linear actuator
A linear actuator is presented, having a drive shaft, a transmission connected to the drive shaft, and a spindle connected to the transmission. The drive shaft, the transmission and the spindle are connected in such a way that a rotational movement of the drive shaft is transmitted to the spindle via the transmission. The linear actuator also has a spindle nut arranged rotationally prevented onto the spindle, and an end stop detection unit for detecting that the spindle nut reaches an end position on the spindle. The end stop detection unit comprises an end stop detection shaft connected to the transmission in such a way that a rotational movement of the spindle is transmitted to the end stop detection shaft such that a rotational movement of the spindle is reflected by a rotational movement of the end stop detection shaft. |
| US08640561B2 |
Movable body driving apparatus
A door driving apparatus having a motor, a sleeve formed at a drive end of a rotor of the motor, a pinion integrally fixed to a rotation shaft integrated with a spline shaft detachably fitted to the sleeve, and left and right racks disposed opposite to each other with respect to the pinion and engaged with the pinion so that the left and right racks can move in directions substantially parallel and opposite to each other. When the motor is individually removed from a rack and pinion casing, the pinion is left in the pinion and rack casing while upper and lower sides of the pinion are engaged with the right and left racks, respectively. Accordingly, the relative positions of the left and right racks are unchanged. |
| US08640553B2 |
Wheel force measurement system
A system for measuring forces applied to a moving vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a sensor plate that is configured to be mounted between a wheel and a hub of the vehicle. The sensor plate is further configured to sense at least one of the set of longitudinal, vertical, and lateral forces as well as longitudinal and vertical moments that are transferred between the wheel and the hub through the sensor plate. The system also includes an electronics package that is coupled to the sensor plate. The electronics package is configured to measure the forces and moments sensed by the sensor plate and provide an output comprising at least one signal representative of at least a portion of the measurements. The system also includes data system coupled to the electronics package, the data system configured to receive the output of the electronics package. |
| US08640551B2 |
Shear force detection device, tactile sensor and grasping apparatus
A shear force detection device for detecting a shear force includes: a support body including an opening defined by a pair of straight parts perpendicular to a detection direction of the shear force and parallel to each other; a support film on the support body and closing the opening, the support film having flexibility; a piezoelectric part on the support film and extending astride an inside and outside of the opening and along at least one of the pair of straight parts of the opening when viewed in a plane in which the support body is seen in a substrate thickness direction, the piezoelectric part being bendable to output an electric signal; and an elastic layer covering the piezoelectric part and the support film. |
| US08640550B2 |
Shear force detection device, tactile sensor and grasping apparatus
A shear force detection device for detecting a shear force includes: a support body including an opening defined by a pair of straight parts perpendicular to a detection direction of the shear force and parallel to each other; a support film on the support body and closing the opening, the support film having flexibility; a piezoelectric part on the support film and extending astride an inside and outside of the opening and along at least one of the pair of straight parts of the opening when viewed in a plane in which the support body is seen in a substrate thickness direction, the piezoelectric part being bendable to output an electric signal; and an elastic layer covering the piezoelectric part and the support film. |
| US08640547B2 |
Pressure sensor with a flexible membrane
The invention relates to a pressure sensor (6). This pressure sensor (6) comprises a flexible membrane (11) cooperating with a transmission device (10) that enables a value representing the pressure to be supplied on the basis of the deformation of the membrane (11). The membrane (11) is made from an at least partially amorphous material in order to optimise the dimensions of the sensor (6). |
| US08640546B2 |
Sensor for high pressure processing of articles
A pressure sensor device and its use for confirming achievement of a selected pressure in a high pressure process (HPP) for sanitizing food is disclosed. The device includes at least a base and a sheet, each of which is substantially impermeable to the working fluid of the HPP and is deformable at the selected pressure. Microcapsules interposed between flat overlapping portions of the base and sheet contain a color former and burst upon pressurization of the environment surrounding the device. Release of the color former is detected to confirm that the pressurization occurred. The device can be associated with one or more foodstuffs (e.g., a packaged food product or a group of such packages) and remain associated therewith to continuously indicate that the foodstuff(s) have been subjected to the selected pressure and are therefore sanitized. |
| US08640544B2 |
Method for analyzing structure safety
The present invention discloses a method for analyzing structure safety, and the method uses valid vibration measurement signals to obtain mutual feedbacks for a structural model analysis and a calibrated structural model to simulate a disaster situation to obtain the critical force exertion and deformation scale of a structure. The method is applied to capture the stability index of the structure to analyze the structure safety or applied for a structure safety evaluation or a health monitoring, or even for a structure multi-hazards safety determination. |
| US08640542B2 |
Cantilever beam structural resonant-type integrated optical waveguide accelerometer
A cantilever beam structural resonant-type integrated optical waveguide accelerometer, includes an input waveguide (1), a dissymmetrical structural Mach-Zehnder interferometer (2), a micro-mechanical vibration cantilever beam (3), a short curved waveguide (4) and an output waveguide (5); all the waveguide structures and the cantilever beam use the integrated optical micromachining technique, and the device single-scale integration can be realized by using the temperature-insensitive organic polymer optical waveguide structure and the organic polymer substrate, the key technique indexes such as detection sensitivity, dynamic range are extensively adjusted. The phase difference of the optical signal can be measured by detecting the optical intensity of the resonant frequency of the optical circuit so as to achieve high sensitive acceleration detection, and to be free from the effect of the ambient temperature disturbance and waveguide birefringence. |
| US08640540B2 |
Vibrating element, vibrator, and electronic apparatus
A vibrating element includes: a first support portion and a second support portion; a first vibrating arm which extends along a first axis, one end of the first vibrating arm being connected to the first support portion; a second vibrating arm which extends along the first axis, one end of the second vibrating arm being connected to the second support portion; an oscillating member which is sandwiched between the other ends of the first vibrating arm and the second vibrating arm, and has openings; and detection arms which extend along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis from the inner walls of the openings of the oscillating member in plan view. |
| US08640538B2 |
Flow sensor and manufacturing method of the same and flow sensor module and manufacturing method of the same
Technique of suppressing performance variations for each flow sensor is provided. In a flow sensor FS1 of the present invention, a part of a semiconductor chip CHP1 is configured to be covered with resin (MR) in a state in which a flow sensing unit (FDU) formed on a semiconductor chip CHP1 is exposed. Since an upper surface SUR(MR) of the resin (MR) is higher than an upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip (CHP1) by sealing the resin (MR) on a part of the upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip CHP1 in a direction parallel to an air flow direction, the air flow around the flow sensing unit (FDU) can be stabilized. Further, interface peeling between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR) can be prevented by an increase of contact area between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR). |
| US08640536B2 |
Water detection device
A water sensing device for positioning at or over a waste outlet to provide an indication of the duration of water flow out of the outlet. The device may be configured as a plug or waste cover. The indication may be by light sources on the top surface of the device. |
| US08640528B2 |
Lubrication condition monitoring
The present invention relates to a method of determining a lubrication parameter indicative of a lubrication condition of an oil-lubricated rolling element bearing. The method comprises measuring high-frequency structure-borne acoustic emissions generated by asperity contact between rolling contact surfaces of the bearing, to provide a measured signal. The emitted acoustic energy is then extracted from the measured signal and the lubrication parameter is determined from the acoustic energy. The determination is made on the basis of a power-law relation between acoustic energy and the lubrication parameter. |
| US08640526B2 |
Method and device for operating a particle sensor
A method for operating a particle sensor (10). The particle sensor (10) has at least two inter-digital electrodes (12, 13) which engage one in the other and to which a sensor voltage U(IDE) (21) is applied in order to determine loading of the particle sensor (10) with soot particles (16). A sensor current I(IDE) (31) across the electrodes (12, 13) is measured and evaluated. In order to remove the loading with soot, a heating element (14) heats the particle sensor (10) in a regeneration phase. The method characterized in that the sensor current I(IDE) (31) is determined, and a shunt diagnosis of the particle sensor (10) is carried out in accordance with the measured sensor current I(IDE) (31). |
| US08640521B2 |
Expandable prosthetic valve crimping device
A device for crimping an implantable device or a part thereof between a radially expanded condition and a radially contracted condition, includes first and second annular bodies arranged about a common axis, and a ring-like array of linear crimping elements having respective opposite ends linked to the first and second annular bodies, respectively. These annular bodies are relatively rotatable around the common axis between a first position, wherein the annular array of crimping elements define a wider orifice for receiving a device to be crimped, and a second position, wherein the annular array of crimping elements define a narrower orifice. |
| US08640519B2 |
Press-molding mold, and press-molding method
Provided are a press-molding mold, in which cracks and wrinkles to be formed at the corner portions of a press-molded article are reduced regardless of the depth of the drawing, and a press-molding method using that mold. The press-molding mold (1) comprises a die (2) having a recess (2b) and a wrinkle holding face (2a) formed around the recess (2b), a punch (3) having a protrusion (3a) matching the recess (2b), and a blank holder (4) having a cushion face (4a) matching the wrinkle holding face (2a). In the press-molding mold (1), the wrinkle holding face (2a) and the cushion face (4a) form a clamping portion (14), by which a material member (5) is clamped for the press-molding operation. The clamping portion (14) of the press-molding mold (1) is divided by an opening portion (15) communicating with a corner recess (2c) of the recess (2b), into a first clamping portion (14a) and a second clamping portion (14b), by which the material member (5) is clamped. |
| US08640517B2 |
Method for feeding lubricant during a hot rolling process
The invention relates to a method for feeding lubricant during hot rolling, in which the surfaces of the rolling rolls are fed with a lubricating emulsion, characterized in that said lubricating emulsion, consisting of a lubricating oil having a viscosity between 10 cSt and 400 cSt at 40° C., mixed with water, is directed onto the surfaces of the rolling rolls via at least one lubricant feed nozzle, at a temperature above 0° C. but below 25° C. |
| US08640514B2 |
Electronic and manual lock assembly
An electronic and manual lock assembly having a lock housing, a mechanical lock, an electric motor, and a shackle having a pair of legs. The shackle can be unlocked relative to the housing by having one leg pivotally connected with the housing and the other leg rotated out of the housing. The lock includes a first stop member that prevents one leg from being rotated out of the housing. The first stop member is moveable as a result of unlocking the mechanical lock. The lock includes a second stop member that prevents one of the legs from being rotated out of the lock housing and is moveable as a result of operating the electric motor. The first stop member and the second stop member are independently moveable by the mechanical lock and the electric motor. |
| US08640510B1 |
Interface member for lock system and method
A system for securing an interface mechanism within an aperture is disclosed. The system may include an interface mechanism comprising a body portion, extension, anchor, and traveler. The extension may extend from the body portion and have a traveler aperture. The anchor may selectively move through a range of motion with respect to the body portion. The range of motion may include one or more extended positions of the anchor. The traveler may be positioned within the traveler aperture. The traveler selectively moving through a range of motion with respect to the extension. The range of motion of the traveler may contain one or more blocking positions wherein the traveler confines the anchor to one or more extended positions. The system may further include a lock engaging the extension and confining the traveler to one or more blocking positions. |
| US08640506B1 |
Laundry bag and kit for washing shoes
A laundry bag for washing shoes comprises a first closing member disposed about a portion of the bag between the open end and a closed end, and a second closing member disposed about an open end of the bag. The bag is of a size such that a first pair of shoes may be secured in a first compartment formed between the closed end of the bag and the first closing member, and a second pair of shoes may be secured in a second compartment formed between the first compartment and the open end of the bag. A kit for washing shoes comprises such a laundry bag and at least one pair of waterproof shoe trees. |
| US08640504B2 |
Lightweight robust thin flexible polymer coated glove
A glove including a knitted liner having a thickness of about 0.70 mm to about 0.90 mm and a plurality of stitches made from a first yarn having a denier of 221 or less, the knitted liner comprising a plurality of finger components, a thumb component, and a palm component, at least one reinforcement section located at a base of at least one finger component, at a base of the thumb component, or in the palm component, or combinations thereof, and a foamed polymeric latex coating adhered to the knitted liner, the foamed polymeric latex coating penetrating half way or more for at least a portion of the knitted liner, the foamed polymeric latex coating not penetrating the entire thickness of the knitted liner. |
| US08640501B2 |
Neck ring and method of making for a glass container forming machine
A neck ring for molding a glass container neck finish that includes at least one closure attachment feature. The neck ring includes two semi-annular bi-metal neck ring halves, each consisting essentially of a neck ring insert of wear-resistant metal construction, and a neck ring body of heat-conductive metal construction different from said wear-resistant metal construction and formed around said neck ring insert so as to embed it in said neck ring body. Each of said neck ring halves has a glass-contacting cavity face that includes a first surface portion formed by said inserts for molding the at least one closure attachment feature on the neck finish, and a second surface portion formed by said bodies for molding portions of the neck finish excluding the at least one closure attachment feature. |
| US08640500B2 |
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. |
| US08640493B1 |
Method for liquefaction of natural gas offshore
Method for processing, treatment and liquefaction of natural gas proximate offshore gas fields with a gas floating production storage and offloading vessel with a primary processing unit, a gas treating unit, and a natural gas compressor. The liquefaction is split between a liquefied natural gas transport vessel moored on a disconnectable turret and the floating production storage and offloading vessel. High pressure liquefied natural gas inlet quality gas from the vessel is sent through conduits to the liquefied natural gas transport vessel(s) then back through the disconnectable turrets to the vessel. A separate nitrogen refrigerant on the transport vessel provides final stage liquefaction while being powered by the transport vessel's propulsion plant. When the transport vessel is full, the transport vessel disconnects from the disconnectable turret, and motors to a transfer terminal located in sheltered water for transfer of liquefied natural gas cargo to a standard trading tanker. |
| US08640489B2 |
Heat pump
A heat pump including: a refrigerant accumulator in which a substance accumulating a refrigerant is disposed, the refrigerant accumulator having a heating means heating the substance in order to release the refrigerant; a flow path connected at one end thereof to the refrigerant accumulator, the flow path holding the refrigerant released from the substance in the refrigerant accumulator by capillary action; a first heat exchanger provided between the refrigerant accumulator and the flow path or around the flow path and exchanging heat with the refrigerant in order to condense the refrigerant; and a second heat exchanger provided around the flow path and exchanging cold energy generated by evaporation of the refrigerant from the other end of the flow path. |
| US08640488B2 |
Ice bin assembly
In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an ice bin assembly for a refrigerator is described. The ice bin assembly further includes an ice storage container having at least one upper guide element and at least one lower guide element. The upper guide element is located above a plane that intersects a center of mass of the ice storage container and the lower guide element is located below the plane that intersects the center of mass of the ice storage container. The upper guide element is configured to contact the upper docking element when the ice storage container is seated on the base and the lower guide element is configured to contact the lower docking element when the ice storage container is seated on the base. |
| US08640484B2 |
Refrigerator with a dispenser
A refrigerator dispenser includes a dispenser assembly housing that is accommodated by a door surface hole having a sizing ratio that is defined by dividing a height with a width of the door surface hole. The dispenser assembly housing is configured to define a dispenser assembly cavity in at least a portion of the dispenser assembly housing. The dispenser assembly cavity has an opening at a front surface of the dispenser assembly housing and has a sizing ratio that is defined by dividing a height with a width of the dispenser assembly cavity along the opening. A control panel extends along at least one of a horizontal and vertical dimension of the front surface of the dispenser assembly housing proximate to the opening. The sizing ratio of the door surface hole is different than the sizing ratio of the dispenser assembly cavity. |
| US08640483B2 |
Ice guide funnel
An appliance dispenser includes a housing defining a recess. The housing includes a receptacle support member and a fixed funnel. An ice dispensing passage extends through the fixed funnel and operably connected with an ice bin. A variable funnel includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is adjacent the fixed funnel. The distal end is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. |
| US08640482B2 |
Refrigerator having folding shelf
A refrigerator includes an ice maker disposed at one side of a storage chamber for storing food, a folding shelf disposed at the ice maker to be folded in a vertical direction or unfolded in a horizontal direction to efficiently use a space formed on the side of the ice maker, a shelf supporting member fixed to the ice maker to rotatably support the folding shelf, and a locking part disposed at the shelf supporting member to support the folding shelf when the folding shelf is unfolded to be arranged in a horizontal direction. When the folding shelf disposed in the storage chamber is folded in a vertical direction, there is formed a space capable of storing containers or food products having a great height. When the folding shelf is unfolded in a horizontal direction, containers or food products having a small height can be put on the folding shelf. |
| US08640478B2 |
Nacelle cooling system for wind turbine
A nacelle cooling system of a wind turbine has cooling blocks which are arranged in order to respectively surround one or more heating devices installed inside a nacelle, a passage pipe line which is connected to the cooling blocks for coolant to flow, a primary heat exchanger which is connected to the passage pipe line and arranged on the outer lateral surface of the nacelle so as to seal the nacelle from outside, and a secondary heat exchanger which is capable of discharging heat generated inside the nacelle into outside the nacelle and constructed to seal the nacelle from outside. |
| US08640477B1 |
Hold-down bracket for securing an air conditioner to a roof mounted air conditioner support
A hold-down bracket employed to secure an air conditioner to a roof mounted air conditioner support includes two bracket members which are adjustable relative to one another, one bracket member secured to the frame of the support and the other bracket member secured to the air conditioner. |
| US08640472B2 |
Dehumidification
Recuperation systems and methods are applied to vapor compression cycles in dehumidification, such as in air conditioning. In some embodiments, a method for dehumidification includes introducing a refrigerant from a heating unit to a cooling unit along a first path; introducing the refrigerant from the cooling unit to the heating unit along a second path different from the first path; introducing the refrigerant from the heating unit to the cooling unit along a third path different from the first path; and contacting the cooling unit and the heating unit with a first gas stream. |
| US08640469B2 |
Aircraft supplemental liquid cooler and method
An aircraft may include an interior and a deployable liquid cooler. The deployable liquid cooler may include a deployable heat exchanger that may be fluidly coupled to at least one heat source of the aircraft. The deployable liquid cooler may receive a cooling system fluid from the heat source for circulation through the deployable heat exchanger. The deployable heat exchanger may be movable between a stowed position in the aircraft interior and a deployed position outside the aircraft. The deployable heat exchanger may transfer heat of the cooling system fluid to an environment outside of the aircraft when the deployable heat exchanger is in the deployed position. |
| US08640459B2 |
Turbocharger control systems and methods for improved transient performance
A turbocharger control system for a high-pressure turbocharger and a low-pressure turbocharger includes a turbo mode determination module and a transition control module. The turbo mode determination module determines a transition from a dual turbo mode to a single turbo mode. The high-pressure turbocharger is active in the dual turbo mode and idle in the single turbo mode. The transition control module determines a turbine efficiency of the high-pressure turbocharger and controls the high-pressure turbocharger during the transition based on a predetermined maximum turbine efficiency equation. |
| US08640458B2 |
Control strategy for an engine
A method of controlling an engine includes manipulating a wastegate to maintain the operation of the turbocharger within an optimum operating range. A combustion air bypass valve is manipulated between an open position and a closed position to create a negative pressure differential across a supercharger. The supercharger is sequentially disposed in-line before the turbocharger. The negative pressure differential is converted into a torque by the supercharger and transmitted from the supercharger back to the engine to increase the operating efficiency of the engine. |
| US08640457B2 |
System and method for operating a turbocharged engine
A method includes substantially reducing specific fuel consumption and exhaust emissions of an engine by adjusting an exhaust flow from a set of predetermined cylinders among a plurality of cylinders of the engine through an exhaust gas recirculation system to an intake manifold, by adjusting a temperature of a cooler of the exhaust gas recirculation system, and by adjusting a fuel injection timing, in response to variance in a plurality of parameters of the engine. |
| US08640454B1 |
Lower costs and increased power density in stirling cycle machines
A Stirling Cycle device including a plurality of Stirling Cycle machines, each operating out of phase with the other Stirling Cycle machines and sharing at least one heat exchanger flow path. |
| US08640448B2 |
Transient compensation control of an SCR aftertreatment system
A system includes an internal combustion engine, an exhaust conduit fluidly coupled to the internal combustion engine and an SCR catalyst, and a reductant doser operationally coupled to the exhaust conduit at a position upstream of the SCR catalyst. The reductant doser is responsive to a reductant doser command. The system includes a controller having a number of modules functionally structured to execute operations to compensate for transient operation of the system. An NH3 target module interprets a reductant amount target that is a target amount of reductant in the exhaust conduit at a position upstream of the SCR catalyst. A transient adjustment module detects a transient event in the SCR catalyst and provides an adjusted reductant amount target in response to the transient event and the reductant amount target. A dosing control module provides the reductant doser command in response to the adjusted reductant amount target. |
| US08640446B2 |
System for purifying exhaust gas and method for controlling the same
An exhaust gas purification device may deactivate at least one of cylinders to supply a gasoline particulate filter with sufficient air according to a driving condition of a gasoline engine, and a control method thereof and a control method thereof may include comparing a pressure difference of the gasoline particulate filter with a predetermined value, determining a cylinder that may be to be deactivated when the pressure difference may be larger than the predetermined value, regenerating the gasoline particulate filter by supplying it with air through the deactivated cylinder, determining whether the engine may be in an over-run condition during the regeneration process, and returning to a general driving condition in a case that the engine may be in the over-run condition. |
| US08640443B2 |
Exhaust gas after treatment system (EATS)
An exhaust gas after treatment system includes a diesel particulate filter unit arranged downstream of a diesel engine, a NO2 reduction catalyst arranged downstream of said diesel particulate filter, a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) arrangement arranged downstream of said NO2 reduction catalyst, a first injector for feeding reducing agent into the exhaust gas arranged downstream said particulate filter and upstream said NO2 reduction catalyst, a second injector for feeding reducing agent into the exhaust gas arranged downstream said NO2 reduction catalyst and upstream said selective catalytic reduction (SCR) arrangement. An exhaust gas after treatment method is also provided. |
| US08640440B2 |
Removal of particulates from the exhaust gas of internal combustion engines operated with a predominantly stoichiometric air/fuel mixture
Disclosed herein is a catalytically active particulate filter, an exhaust gas cleaning system and a process for cleaning the exhaust gases of predominantly stoichiometrically operated internal combustion engines, which are suitable, as well as the gaseous CO, HC and NOx pollutants, also for removing particulates from the exhaust gas. The particulate filter comprises a filter body and a catalytically active coating consisting of two layers. The first layer is in contact with the incoming exhaust gas, the second layer with the outgoing exhaust gas. Both layers contain alumina. The first layer contains palladium. The second layer contains, in addition to rhodium, an oxygen-storing cerium/zirconium mixed oxide. |
| US08640439B2 |
Hybrid drive for an aircraft
A drive device for an aircraft comprises a gas turbine apparatus for generating a first drive energy and electric motor for generating a second drive energy. The gas turbine apparatus and the electric motor are set up in such a way that the drive unit may be provided with at least one of the first drive energy and the second drive energy. The drive unit is set up to generate propulsion using at least one of the first drive energy and the second drive energy. |
| US08640438B2 |
High humidity gas turbine equipment
The present invention provides high humidity gas turbine equipment including a compressor compressing air, a combustor combusting the compressed air and a fuel, a gas turbine driven by the combustion gas, a generator driven by the gas turbine to generate power, a humidifier humidifying the compressed air by directly contacting it with hot water, and a regenerative heat exchanger heating the humidified compressed air by exhaust gas of the gas turbine and feeding it to the combustor, heat exchangers generating hot water for the humidifier utilizing a factory exhaust heat medium from the outside, a boiler generating steam to be supplied to the outside utilizing the exhaust gas of the gas turbine, and a boiler generating steam to be supplied to the outside utilizing the compressed air discharged from the compressor. |
| US08640437B1 |
Mini sized combined cycle power plant
A mini combined cycle power plant with a mini gas turbine engine that operates at around 20,000 to 30,000 rpm and is connected to an electric generator through a speed reduction gear box, a low pressure steam turbine connected directly to the gas turbine engine, a high pressure steam turbine connected to the low pressure steam turbine through a smaller gear box so that the high pressure steam turbine can operate at around 70,000 to 100,000 rpm, and a heat recovery steam generator to use the turbine exhaust to produce high pressure steam for the two steam turbines. Leftover heat from the HRSG is used to heat homes or buildings in the local area to the power plant to improve the overall efficiency of the plant. |
| US08640436B2 |
Arrangement for the discharge of exhaust air separated from the lubricating oil de-aeration system of a gas-turbine engine
With an arrangement for the discharge of oil-contaminated exhaust air separated from the lubricating oil de-aeration system of a gas-turbine engine and led to the atmosphere via a venting line, the venting line (13) issues into an attenuation chamber (12) formed within the exhaust cone (9) of the gas-turbine engine and connected to a Venturi nozzle (14) via a discharge tube (17) for drawing off the oil-contaminated exhaust air and blowing it into the exhaust-gas flow, with the Venturi nozzle (14) being arranged in the exhaust gas-flow of the gas-turbine engine and oriented in a flow direction. The oil-contaminated exhaust air is completely discharged with the exhaust-gas flow without contacting visible engine parts. |
| US08640435B1 |
System and method for fabrication of fibers using links of nanotubes
Fabrication of fibers using links of nanotubes including slicing a first nanotube rope from a nanotube forest. The method further includes wrapping the first nanotube rope in a first plurality of circuitous turns to create a first link. The method further includes slicing a second nanotube rope from the nanotube forest. The method further includes wrapping the second nanotube rope in a second plurality of circuitous turns to create a second link, wherein the second link is interconnected to the first link in a chain. |
| US08640434B2 |
Removable corn header snout
A removable divider for a row unit of an agricultural header. The divider is configured to be detachably retained by mounting portions of a frame of the row unit. The divider is retained by the mounting portions of the frame when the divider is in a first position relative the row unit for harvesting crop and is removable from the mounting portions when the divider is in a second position relative the row unit. Outward and parallel extending portions abut the frame of the row unit when the divider is in the first position but then allow the divider to be removed from the row unit when the divider is moved into the second position. |
| US08640432B2 |
Mixing, processing and sealing machine for substances to prepare cosmetics and related materials and corresponding procedures for preparation of cosmetics and related materials
A mixing, processing, sealing and bottling machine for substances used to prepare cosmetics is provided. The machine is driven by external means and includes a cabinet, where command panels are externally placed and a bottling station. The devices are used by a user to prepare cosmetics and related products comprising chemicals or natural substances prescribed in personal formulas originating from prescriptions from professionals or pre-programmed formulations. The machine can be connected to a printing device for printing the formula or recording means for recording the formula. |
| US08640429B1 |
Low thermal bridge building components
Building components having a reduced thermal bridge relative to traditional building components. In embodiments, a beam comprises at least two flanges and a web connecting the flanges and maintaining the flanges in a roughly parallel configuration to each other. In embodiments, the web comprises multiple web pieces having reduced cross sections. In alternative embodiments, the web comprises a single continuous web piece with a reduced cross section. In alternative embodiments, the web comprises one or more foam or honeycomb pieces. |
| US08640408B2 |
Grid system for a suspended ceiling
The disclosure relates to a grid system including at least one main runner including an aperture; at least one cross spacer including a slot, with the slot formed from a bottom side thereof; and a fixing element. The main runner is insertable into the slot in the cross spacer from a first side of the cross spacer such that, when the main runner is inserted into said slot, the aperture of the main runner is at least partly accessible from a second side of the cross spacer, the second side being opposite to the first side. The cross spacer further includes an aperture, and the fixing element is adapted to, in a locked position, extend through the aperture in the main runner and through the aperture in the cross spacer such that the relative position of the main runner and the cross spacer is fixed. |
| US08640406B2 |
Spacer profile having a reinforcement layer
A spacer profile for use as a spacer frame in an insulating window unit includes a profile body made of a synthetic material and having an inner wall, an outer wall and sidewalls, which define a chamber for hygroscopic material. A diffusion barrier layer is made of a first metal material and has a first tensile strength and a first thickness. The diffusion barrier layer is disposed at least on or in the outer wall and at least a portion of the sidewalls. A reinforcement layer is made of a second metallic material and has a second tensile strength and a second thickness. The reinforcement layer is formed in the inner wall or on the side of the inner wall, which is directed towards the chamber. The multiplication product of the second thickness and the second tensile strength is preferably greater than the multiplication product of the first thickness and the first tensile strength. |
| US08640405B2 |
Temporary railing system
A temporary railing system includes interior and exterior plates, temporary railing portions, and support arms designed to connect to the plates and support the temporary railing portions. The interior and exterior plates are designed in such a way that they are able to be installed on preexisting balusters by being placed snuggly against the balusters and bolted to each other with connecting bolts. The support arm is held into place by the two plates and is able to support the temporary railing portions. Multiple interior and exterior plate pairs can be used in a single installation to support multiple portions of temporary railing. The temporary railing portions are designed to fit seamlessly together, if desired, during installation. |
| US08640401B2 |
Photovoltaic panel mounting system
A photovoltaic module mounting system having a rack structure, which includes a mounting rack structure having a rail (5) and two clamps (6) for holding a photovoltaic module (7) by a bolt (3) extending from a press plate (4) on an outer side of the module (7) to one of the clamps (6) mounted in an upper input space (51A) in the rail (5). Entrances (50A and 50B) are provided relatively for each of the two input spaces (51A and 51B) each providing a space to input one of the at least two clamps (6), which are mutual perpendicular. The longitudinal input space (51A) in the upper section of the substantially H shape rail is used to hold the clamp (6) to fix the photovoltaic module (7). The lateral input space (51B) is used to hold the clamp (6) to fix the rail (5) to the pre-location. It has an excellent function on lateral and longitudinal location. And the structure is simple, compact, efficient, adaptable and saves on material. |
| US08640400B2 |
Low profile mounting system
The specification and drawing figures describe and show a low profile mounting system that includes a at least one rail. A plurality of tracks is formed in the rail with opposing jaws. The opposing jaws define a slot. The opposing jaws are disposed in the rail asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the rail. At least one ledge monolithically extends from the rail for holding an object such as a solar panel. A coupler is provided for demountably connecting a solar panel to the rail. A cleat also is provided for attaching the system to a surface. A connector connects the rail to the cleat. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim. |
| US08640394B2 |
Arcuate-winged solar canopy assembly
The invention is an assembly of elements to collect solar energy and rain water. Solar energy is converted to electricity by either photovoltaic film or laminate panels or sheets mounted atop arcuate, curved canopy structures that are formed and positioned like “wings”. Rainwater is collected by the low-incidence arcuate curved wings and directed to a central trough along the wings' structural spine, which conducts it through a support column to a water container or vessel. In a preferred embodiment the vessel is an underground container extending parallel to and as long as the above-ground structural spine of the assembly. |
| US08640391B2 |
Modular architectural room system
A modular architectural wall system for a patient room may support accessories and include panels. The architectural wall system may include gas outlets and electrical outlets mounted to a surface of the architectural wall system. |
| US08640390B2 |
Decorative strip for showers
A decorative strip (10; 40; 60; 80; 100; 120; 150; 180; 230; 260; 290) for ceramic, natural stone or synthetic coverings or coatings, in particular for the formation of walk-in showers with a sloped floor, comprising a decorative strip profile (12; 42; 62; 82; 102; 122; 152; 182; 232; 262; 292) having a visible decorative surface (16; 50; 70; 92; 142; 164; 196; 236; 274; 302), characterized in that the decorative strip (10; 40; 60; 80; 100; 120; 150; 180; 230; 260; 290) has a holding profile (14; 44; 64; 84; 104; 124; 154; 184; 234; 264; 294) in which the decorative strip profile (12; 42; 62; 82; 102; 122; 152; 182; 232; 262; 292) is retained height-adjustably so as to vary the height of its visible decorative surface (16; 50; 70; 92; 142; 164; 196; 236; 274; 302). |
| US08640384B2 |
Multi-point lock system with single position actuation and related methods
A sliding fenestration assembly including a panel assembly having at least a primary panel and a secondary panel, where the primary panel is slidable relative to the secondary panel. The assembly further includes an actuator assembly having an actuator. The actuator assembly is coupled with an element, and movement of the actuator causes movement of the element. One or more locking latches are disposed remotely from the actuator, and the two or more locking latches having a locked and unlocked position. The two or more locking latches are coupled with the element and mounted along the primary panel. The actuator assembly is adapted to unlock the two or more locking latches and slide the primary panel. |
| US08640383B1 |
System and method for retaining a proper interconnection between a tilt-post and a brake shoe in the counterbalance system of a tilt-in window
A counterbalance system for a tilt-in window that utilizes a brake shoe assembly. The brake shoe assembly is comprised of a brake shoe housing and a cam element. The brake shoe housing has a first arm element, a second arm element, and a flexible bottom section. A cam opening is disposed within the brake shoe housing. A gap space exists above the cam opening. The cam element is disposed within the cam opening. The cam element contains a tilt post receiving slot that received the tilt post from a window sash. A catch finger extends from the first arm element into the gap space. The catch finger at least partially obstructs the tilt post receiving slot. This prevents the tilt post of the window sash from being inadvertently lifted out of the brake shoe assembly. |
| US08640380B2 |
Deterrent device
There is provided a deterrent device 10 having an elongate body 11 formed from an extrudable insulating material. The device has at least one elongate knitted/braided metallic conductor 19 on an upward facing surface of the body 11, the material of the body penetrating into the lower margins of the or each conductor thereby securing the or each conductor to the body with the upward facing surface of the or each conductor being exposed. This construction enables the conductors to be co-extruded with the body thereby avoiding the need for further fastening devices and enables manufacture in a single operation. |
| US08640379B2 |
Mole trap and method of operation therefor
A mole trap includes a molded housing with first and second portions. One of the portions includes two molded posts. A trigger and release plate are each pivotally mounted on one of the two posts, and are substantially encased within the housing. The trap may include a first shaft connected to a trigger pad, and a spring loaded second shaft. The first shaft is slideable with respect to the second shaft, which is connected to a plurality of tines. A release is operative to hold a trigger in a set position, and thereby hold the spring loaded second shaft in the set position. The first shaft is operable to displace the release in response to an upward force applied to the trigger pad, wherein the release is operable to release the trigger in response to the displacement, wherein the trigger is operable to release the spring loaded outer shaft. |
| US08640371B1 |
Universal sign post base
A weighted sign post base which may be formed in various weights and has a central portion made of resilient material, such as compression molded rubber, having a universal sign post mounting hole molded into the center of the base. The universal sign post mounting hole is uniquely shaped to create a friction grip sufficient to secure the sign post to the universal sign post base upon insertion of the sign post into the universal sign post mounting hole, thereby eliminating the need of any mounting hardware and allowing speedy erection of the sign. |
| US08640364B2 |
Cutting device for producing vertically running trenches in the ground
A cutting device for producing vertically running trenches in the ground includes a trench wall cutter which has a cutting frame, a first cutting wheel arrangement and a second cutting wheel arrangement. The cutting wheel arrangements are arranged adjacent to each other on the underside of the cutting frame in order to remove ground material underneath the cutting frame. The trench wall cutter has an adjusting mechanism, with which the first cutting wheel arrangement is adjustable in a direction lying obliquely underneath the second cutting wheel arrangement. |
| US08640363B2 |
Article of footwear with embedded orthotic devices
Footwear including an integrated orthotics system provides support with progressive resistance in pronation and supenation motions of the foot during a gait cycle. The orthotics system includes an orthotic device between the mid-sole and the outsole and extend from the rear foot's calcaneus region to the forefoot region where the phalanges and metatarsal joints meets. The orthotic device includes contours mimicking a foot sole shape in an unloaded state. The orthotic system may also include a secondary external orthotic device embedded underneath the outsole to provide control in the mid foot region to achieve progressive compression resistance in the mid foot arch zones. The secondary device may be customizable to achieve a wide range of resistance level needed in mid foot compression by the wearer. The orthotics combined with the midsole and outsole provide progressive mid foot compression resistance and directional flex associated with pronatory motions of the foot. |
| US08640362B2 |
Article of footwear with a removable foot-supporting insert
An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper that defines an interior void, a sole structure secured to the upper, and a foot-supporting insert that is positionable within a lower area of the void and removable from the void. A system having a protrusion and an indentation may be utilized to, for example, secure the insert within the void. As an example, a protrusion may extend outward from a surface of the void, and the insert may define an indentation in a corresponding location and with a corresponding shape. When the insert is positioned within the void, the protrusion will extend into the indentation. The locations, shapes, numbers and overall configuration of the protrusion and indentation may vary significantly. |
| US08640357B2 |
Laboratory type quick film drying oven
The drying oven of the present invention comprises a holey plastic plate that can make planetary rotation. The drying mechanisms may consist of classical resistance heaters, blowing heaters and/or coolers, and ultraviolet, infrared and microwave radiation sources in horizontal, vertical or intermediate angle arrangements. There is an absorbent material in a reservoir so as to absorb the excess energy transmitted by the system. The present system completes the drying procedure quickly with full automatization within a standard period without deteriorating the sample and reveals a product which is ready to further processing. |
| US08640350B2 |
Laser line generator having three intersecting light planes
An improved laser line generating device is provided for use in construction layout tasks. The laser line generating device is comprised of a first laser light generator operable to emit from a housing a first plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the first plane of light perpendicular to a horizontal plane; and a second laser light generator operable to emit from the housing a second plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the second plane of light perpendicular to the first plane of light and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, such that the first plane of light intersects with the second plane of light at two points. |
| US08640346B2 |
Power tool
A power tool includes a handle including a support portion movably supportable on a housing portion and extending substantially about the circumference of the housing portion. The support portion may include a second end movable relative to a first end such that the support portion selectively applies a force to the housing portion. The tool may include a bevel angle detent mechanism in which one of the detent member and the recess is angularly adjustable relative to the associated one of the detent support and the recess support to adjust the predetermined bevel angle position. A bevel angle detent mechanism may include an engagement operating assembly operable between a detent engagement-enabled condition, in which the detent member is engageable in the recess, and a detent engagement-prevention condition, in which the detent member is prevented from engaging the recess. The tool may include a spindle lock assembly. |
| US08640345B2 |
Lockout forward flip lever for power saw
A saw assembly includes a housing, a drive member, a motor, a switch, a trigger, a lockout lever, a stop structure, and a lock-on member. The housing defines an interior space, and has a forward housing portion defining a forward housing opening and a rearward housing portion defining a rearward housing opening. The drive member extends through the forward housing opening, and is configured to be moved in a repeating pattern. The motor is positioned in the interior space and is configured to move the drive member in the repeating pattern. The switch is positioned in the interior space and has an actuator movable between an actuated and a deactuated position. When the switch is in the actuated position, the motor moves the drive member in the repeating pattern, and when the switch is in the deactuated position, the motor does not move the drive member in the repeating pattern. |
| US08640344B2 |
Cutting members for shaving razors
Cutting members for razors are provided that have a blade portion and a base portion, the blade portion having a cutting edge region terminated at a free end thereof and an opposing non-cutting edge region, the blade portion being bent relative to the base portion in a bent portion spaced from the cutting edge region and adjacent to the non-cutting edge region, wherein the bent portion extends about 108 degrees to about 115 degrees from the base portion, the bent portion having a radius of about 0.30 mm to about 0.45 mm, at least part of the cutting member having a hardness of about hardness of about 540 HV to about 750 HV, and a thickness of the bent portion is less than the average thickness of the cutting member. |
| US08640341B2 |
Method of producing rolling sliding member
A method of producing a rolling sliding member, wherein, after a work for a rolling sliding member, which is made of a bearing steel and formed in a predetermined shape, is quenched, a heating start temperature is set to be 10 to 100° C., a heating finish temperature is set to be 220 to 350° C., a time between the heating finish time and the heating start time is set to be a heating time, the quenched work for the rolling sliding member is heated so that a rate of temperature increase indicated by the following formula becomes 7 to 35° C./s rate of temperature increase=(heating finish temperature−heating start temperature)/heating time, the work is tempered by being cooled without being maintained at a heating finish temperature from the heating finish time. |
| US08640340B2 |
Offshore wind turbine installation
Installation vessels and methods for offshore wind turbine installation are disclosed. In one embodiment, a cantilever mast is used to transfer of wind turbine components from an installation vessel to an offshore installation site and guide the transfer to prevent undesired swinging movements of the wind turbine components. In another embodiment, a main crane is used in cooperation with a guide arm to transfer and guide wind turbine components from an installation vessel to an offshore installation site. |
| US08640337B2 |
Pipe expansion method
A pipe expansion method capable of reducing an inspection range (area) of a heat-transfer pipe secured to a pipe plate and capable of shortening the time required for inspection is provided. In a pipe expansion method for securing a heat-transfer pipe inserted in a pipe hole of a pipe plate by expanding the pipe, after tightly fitting an outer circumferential surface of the heat-transfer pipe to an inner circumferential surface of the pipe hole from a primary-side end face to a secondary-side end face of the pipe plate, surface pressure between the heat-transfer pipe and the pipe plate is further increased in a predetermined range from the secondary-side end face, or close to the secondary-side end face, towards the primary-side end face. |
| US08640334B2 |
Method of setting lash in a cam phaser
A method of setting lash in a cam phaser includes rotating a stator having a lobe in a first direction so that the lobe contacts a motion limiter pin disposed within a first hole in a rotor, causing the compression of a spring until a motion limiter lock pin enters a groove on the motion limiter pin and contacts a wall at one end of the groove. The rotor is then rotated in conjunction with the stator in the first direction until a rotor locking pin that is disposed within a second hole in the rotor engages a lock pin seat on a cover at one end of the seat. The rotor is then held in place while rotating the stator in a second direction so that there is a gap between the wall at one end of the groove and the motion limiter locking pin. |
| US08640333B2 |
Method of manufacturing an electrical contact assembly
An electrical contact assembly has a plurality of formed elongate closed seam tubular elements attached to a carrier with each of the elongate tubular elements attached to the carrier via a tab. Scored creases are formed in the tabs for separating the elongate tubular elements from the assembly and scored creases are formed in the carrier for defining carrier strips. The carrier strip had a plurality of grouped elongate tubular elements. The electrical contact assembly is placed in a crimping die where at least one or more wires are inserting into selected elongate tubular elements. Pressure is applied to least one or more of the selected elongate tubular elements to produce bulk material deformation along a substantial portion of the elongate tubular elements to crimp the elongate tubular elements to the wires as electrical contacts. |
| US08640330B2 |
Extracting apparatus for storage device module
An extracting apparatus is disclosed. The extracting apparatus includes a mounting member, a handle pivotably connected to the mounting member, a latch member fixed to the mounting member and comprising a latch portion locked to the handle, and a release member slidably mounted to the mounting member and comprising an engaging portion for engaging with the latch member to deform the latch portion of the latch member, thereby releasing the latch portion from the handle. |
| US08640323B2 |
Bar connecting apparatus with clip advance
An apparatus for connecting bars includes a clip string, a barrel having a clip receiving cavity, with a terminal clip of the clip string received in the clip receiving cavity. A drive is received in the barrel and extends proximally from the barrel. The drive includes a hammer received in the barrel. The hammer reciprocates longitudinally within the barrel for contacting and expelling the terminal clip from the barrel. A cam guide is connected to the drive. A cam plate having a cam track is pivotally connected to the barrel. The cam guide engages the cam track such that the cam plate pivots back and forth as the drive is moved distally and proximally relative to the barrel. At least one finger is connected to the cam plate such that the finger engages and advances the clip string end of the clip receiving cavity as the cam plate pivots back. |
| US08640321B2 |
Clinching method and tool for performing the same
A replaceable deformable insert is disposed in a clinching die cavity having an annular recess adjacent the insert. A first layer is established on a second layer and secured between a retractable punch and the clinching die. The punch is pressed into the first layer to form a depression in the first and second layers. The first and second layers are compressed together between the punch and the clinching die, creating hydrostatic pressure in the first and second layers and the insert. A portion of the insert is extruded to fill the annular recess with insert extrudate, while a portion of the second layer is simultaneously radially extruded into an annular space previously occupied by the insert. A portion of the first layer is simultaneously radially extruded into an annular volume previously occupied by the second layer, thereby forming an interlocking assembly of the first and second layers and insert. |
| US08640320B2 |
Method of joining by roller hemming and solid state welding and system for same
A method of joining a first and a second work piece, such as automotive closure panels, includes supporting the work pieces on a fixture, and then joining the work pieces to one another by a first solid state weld with a vibrating roller head of a tool assembly, such as a robotically-controlled ultrasonic seam welder. Next, a flange of the second work piece is hemmed about an outer periphery of the first work piece using the same or a different roller head with the work pieces supported by the fixture. The hemmed flange is then joined to the first work piece by a second solid state weld with the vibrating roller head of the robotically-controlled ultrasonic seam welder. A system for joining a first and a second work piece is also provided. |
| US08640319B2 |
Nail clipping system
A nail clipping system comprises two opposed surfaces (relatively flat, curved or ergonomically or functionally non-planar) hinged at one end. The hinge may be a living hinge made from the same or similar structural material as the opposed surfaces, or may be a spring-loaded hinge connecting the two opposed surfaces. Associated with an upper one of the opposed surfaces is at least one (relatively) downward exterior plate, and associated with a lower one of the opposed surfaces is at least one (relatively) upward interior plate directly opposed to a downward exterior plate. The at least one downward exterior plate has a slot therein accessible to finger nails. The slot may be linear or curved (to accommodate the curve of nails). The at least one upward interior plate has a blade element that slides along an interior surface of the downward exterior plate and across the slot therein. |
| US08640318B2 |
Method for forming elongated composite tubular
A method and apparatus for forming an elongate tubular from a composite material. The composite material includes fibers and epoxy resin that are disposed around an elongated mandrel. The fibers are wound around the outer circumference of the mandrel and the epoxy resin may be applied to the fibers, before, during, or after, being wound onto the mandrel. A trough is provided that supports the mandrel between ends of the mandrel. An example trough includes a flexible membrane supported on its lateral ends to resemble a catenary. |
| US08640313B2 |
Machine tool with feed and removal device
A machine tool has a tool spindle which can be moved in an x-direction and a y-direction and a workpiece slide which can be moved in the z-direction and has a swiveling table which can be pivoted about an A-axis which is parallel to the x-axis. A feed and removal device is provided, which has an H-shaped pallet changing mechanism, which can be pivoted about a y1-axis which is parallel to the y-direction, a y1-pivot drive and a lift drive for displacing the pallet changing mechanism from a lower feed and removal position into a central pallet depositing position and into an upper pallet lifting out position. |
| US08640307B2 |
Hinge and flip device with the same
A hinge has a central element and a surrounding element. One of the central element and the surrounding element is formed by injection molding, and the other element is then formed on the priorly-formed element by injection molding such that a limit segment is mounted around the neck segment having a smallest outer width of the central element, which keeps the surrounding element from departing from the central element, and further simplifies a structure of the hinge. Because a melting point of the element formed priorly is higher than a melting point of the element formed later, the element formed later does not attach to the element formed priorly, and the two elements are relatively rotatable. Finally, because the manufacture of the hinge is accomplished after injection molding twice, the process of manufacturing the hinge is more convenient, faster and lowers the cost. |
| US08640303B2 |
Configuration of a cyclone assembly and surface cleaning apparatus having same
A cyclone separator useable in a surface cleaning apparatus comprises a cyclone casing defining a cyclone chamber and a dirt collection chamber exterior to the cyclone chamber. The cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber are openable such that the entire cross sectional area of the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber may be exposed. |
| US08640302B2 |
Arrangement for positioning and holding a filter bag in a vacuum cleaner
A filter bag of a vacuum cleaner has a filter mounting plate that includes a generally strap-shaped securing element with pivot members on an end thereof. A housing of the vacuum cleaner defines a filter bag compartment therein and has pivot receivers into which the pivot members can be substantially vertically inserted. Then the filter mounting plate can be pivoted into a substantially horizontal installed position as the filter bag is inserted into the filter bag compartment. In the installed position, a first stop member of the filter mounting plate contacts and is stopped by a second stop member of the housing so as to prevent further pivoting and so as to properly position and hold the filter mounting plate. |
| US08640300B2 |
Collection of recyclable or waste material
Disclosed herein are Apparatus for the collection of recyclable or waste material. The apparatus comprises a movable element for drawing ambient air into the apparatus through an inlet, in use, thereby creating a suction force that draws the recyclable or waste material into the apparatus through the inlet. The apparatus is arranged such that material drawn into the apparatus impacts the movable element, and the apparatus further comprises a compactor for reducing the volume occupied by the recyclable or waste material. |
| US08640299B2 |
Indoor/outdoor cleaning system
An indoor/outdoor cleaning system includes a portable pressurized housing for containing cleaning fluids (water, chemicals, and mixtures thereof). Multiple hoses connect the interior of the housing with a cleaning wand. The wand includes a handle, a hollow trunk portion and a cleaning head. The multiple hoses have outlets adjacent the cleaning head for feeding water, cleaning chemicals, or surface treating fluids thereto. The outlets open adjacent a cleaning pad, which pad, which pad is attached to the cleaning head via a mechanism that allows the pad to move either in a linear or sinusoidal (rocking) motion or the combination of both motions thereof. A variety of cleaning pad accessories (brush, sponge, sanding pad, buffing pad, etc.) can be optionally attached to the cleaning pad based on the type of surface to be cleaned or treated. A suction conduit, disposed in the cleaning head, functions to draw used fluids away from the surface for safe disposal thereof. |
| US08640294B2 |
Lawn sweeper assembly with adjustable brush assembly and hopper assembly and method of use thereof
The present disclosure relates to a lawn sweeper designed to collect debris, such as grass clippings and leaves, from a surface such as a lawn, and more particularly to a lawn sweeper with an adjustable brush assembly and characteristics associated with improved storage of such a device. A user may adjust the brush assembly with respect to the housing without needing to move the wheels. The hopper assembly may include a panel movable to be placed in at least two orientations, thereby allowing a user to change the volume within which the hopper assembly may collect debris. Methods are also disclosed for adjusting the brush assembly and for storing a lawn sweeper unit. |
| US08640292B1 |
Deviator system for use in post-tension segmental concrete construction
A deviator apparatus for use in segmental concrete construction has a duct and a pipe extending through an interior of the duct. The duct has a first end and a second end and a central portion. The first end has a diameter substantially greater than a diameter of the central portion. The pipe has a diameter substantially less than a diameter of a duct at the first end. The pipe has a length substantially greater than a length of the duct. A plurality of tendons extend through the pipe. The duct increases constantly in diameter from the central portion to the first end. The duct has ribs formed on an exterior surface thereof. |
| US08640291B2 |
Method and product for manufacturing vulcanized footwear or cupsole footwear
A vulc style and cupsole style footwear and a method for manufacturing the footwear are disclosed. The footwear includes a midsole that is directly attached to the upper. The midsole may be attached to the outsole by adhesive. In the method of manufacturing the footwear, the upper and an outsole are disposed a set distance apart. Polyurethane or other material for providing cushioning to the footwear is either injected between the upper and outsole or poured onto the outsole and the upper is traversed over the outsole so as to define the mold for defining the midsole. The polyurethane is directly attached to the upper and adhered to the outsole/cupsole. |
| US08640290B1 |
Adjustable breast support apparatus
An adjustable breast support apparatus and method of use having a base, an upright support, and one or more breast supporter assemblies having breast supports for supporting the breasts and easing the weight and strain placed upon a user's back and torso. The base rests or attaches with a table, a chair, or another structure or the base may be mounted with the user's belt. The breast supports are shaped to comfortably conform to the underside of the users breasts. A retaining strap holder and retaining strap allow for a third point of support whereby the apparatus is further secured with the user. |
| US08640288B2 |
Disposable transporter
The present disclosure is a disposable transporter that is absorbent, portable, and lightweight, and having sufficient strength to carry an injured soldier or medical patient. The transporter has a backing substrate, absorbent body, and gripping device. The gripping device permits manual carrying or insertion of poles to form a litter or portable cot. The absorbent body may have active agents that kill microorganisms to reduce the risk of contamination, infection, and odors from blood or other body fluids. The disclosure provides a process for producing base materials for the transporter. Also disclosed is a transporter kit having a transporter and a water-resistant case. |
| US08640285B2 |
Hospital bed seat section articulation for chair egress
A hospital bed includes a base, an upper frame supported above the base, and a deck supported on the upper frame. The deck has head, seat, thigh, and foot sections. The deck is movable between a horizontal position to support a patient in a supine position and a chair egress position to support the patient in a sitting position. The hospital bed further has a seat section actuator to articulate the seat section relative to the upper frame about an axis located adjacent a foot end of the seat section such that a head end of the seat section lifts upwardly relative to the upper frame to facilitate egress of the patient from the deck when the deck is in the chair egress position. |
| US08640283B2 |
Leg release assembly for a cot
A cot operable to fold one or more legs thereof with the advancing of the cot onto a support object is disclosed. The cot comprises a wheeled transporter, having a frame and legs, and a leg release assembly. The leg release assembly comprises a contact member, a leg release member releasably engaged with at least one of the legs, and a linkage member operably connecting the contact member and the leg release member. The contact member is pressure-sensitive and activates with an application of pressure thereto. The leg release member releases the at least one of the legs from an engagement therewith with activation of the contact member. The at least one of legs folds relative to the frame with the release of the engagement with the leg release member. |
| US08640281B2 |
Non-inflatable temperature control system
A non-inflatable resting device used for heating and cooling is provided with a plurality of interconnected channels located close to an external surface of the resting device. Each channel substantially occupies the space between two support beams and the interior of said external surface. The comfort level of the resting devices is considerably increased while maintaining adequate structural integrity of the channels when the support beams are constructed with a cushion material having layers of different hardness levels. The top layer is a cushion material with high initial softness ratio. The arrangement of the channels and beams allows a non-pressurized conditioned fluid to flow underneath of the external surface providing a resting device with a heating and cooling system with unmatched energy efficiency. The high energy efficiency of the proposed resting device is due to the elimination of the compressor motor and the thick cushion layer used on the top surface as required by the competition. In addition, the ambient comfort level is improved by the elimination of a noisy compressor motor. |
| US08640280B2 |
Crib with adjustable height mattress
A apparatus with an adjustable height mattress can include a crib frame with a stationary support frame secured to it. The mattress rests generally on an elevator frame which slides up and down with respect to the stationary frame. The crib further includes a height adjusting mechanism for adjusting height of the elevator frame, an operating mechanism for operating and locking the height adjusting mechanism and a leveling mechanism for maintaining the level of elevator frame horizontally stable. The mattress height can be adjusted not only on a semi-permanent basis, but can also be varied as needed. The mattress can be set high when a parent is placing a child in the crib and can be lowered with the child on it for the child's safety. The elevator frame may also be manually raised with the child on it via an external handle. |
| US08640279B2 |
Systems for patient transfer, devices for movement of a patient, and methods for transferring a patient
A patient transfer sled having a support structure including at least one air cushion partially disposed within at least one pocket, and a fluid passageway extending through the support structure into the air cushion. Systems for patient transfer that may include a support surface, such as a table, a patient transfer sled having at least one air cushion, and a source of pressurized air. Methods for moving a patient relative to a support surface include positioning a patient on a patient transfer sled having at least one air cushion, and inflating the air cushion with air to form a sheet of flowing air between the patient transfer sled and the support surface. The methods may be used, for example, to move a patient on an air film over a surface within a system. |
| US08640278B2 |
Adjustment mechanism for altering height of baby playpen
An adjustment mechanism for altering a height of a baby playpen from the ground to a bottom of the baby playpen is disclosed. The adjustment mechanism includes a foldable skeleton, a seat fabric slideably put on the foldable skeleton to construct a plurality of side surface and a bottom surface for forming an accommodation space, and a height adjustment positioning mechanism disposed between the foldable skeleton and the seat fabric thereby altering the height of the bottom surface from the ground by adjusting the seat fabric. |
| US08640277B1 |
Body scrubber
A body scrubber includes a housing having two opposing sides, a top, a bottom and an open front face. Positioned within the open front face are a plurality of tiered, motorized cleansing rollers each formed of a hollow, perforated tube encapsulated by an absorbent cleansing sleeve. Either soap or water can be delivered to the interior of each tube using a control panel. A bather first delivers soap to the rollers and places a desired portion of the body against the motorized cleansing sleeves; when the soap has been thoroughly applied, the bather delivers water to rinse the applied soap. Accordingly, a bather may easily cleanse certain bodily areas that would otherwise be inaccessible with conventional cleaning implements. |
| US08640273B1 |
Animal waste disposal system
A coupling component has upper and lower surfaces. A nipple extends downwardly for securement to a clean out line. A passageway extends centrally through the coupling component and nipple. A lid is movable between a closed orientation positioning the lid upon the upper surface of the coupling component and an open orientation positioning the lid at an angle with respect to the upper surface of the coupling component. A pedal operatively couples the lid with respect to the coupling component. A spring has a first end operatively coupled with respect to the pedal and a second end operatively coupled with respect to the coupling component. When a user steps on the pedal, the lid will rotate upwardly to the open orientation. When a user removes a foot from the pedal, the spring will rotate the lid to the closed orientation. |
| US08640269B2 |
Sanitary water conservation device
An installation for the intermediate holding and storage of sewage and effluent, said installation comprising a sealable housing 9 having an inlet 1 for receiving said effluent and an outlet for discharging said effluent, a holding reservoir 2 pivotally mounted and positioned within said housing to receive and temporarily store a quantity of said effluent, wherein said holding reservoir is an asymmetrically shaped open bucket adapted to automatically move about said pivot from a first position adapted for receiving and storing said effluent to a second invented position where stored effluent is emptied into said housing under the influence of gravity once the accumulated effluent reaches a sufficient mass wherein said housing includes an effluent race 11 incorporated into the floor of said housing to divert said effluent directly to said outlet. |
| US08640266B2 |
Magnetic securing device assembly and method for securing a garment while nursing
Magnetic securing device assemblies and methods for securing a garment away from a breast. The magnetic securing device assembly includes a first and second magnetic element. At least one of the first and second magnetic elements is attached to a cord which is used to carry the magnetic securing device assembly as an ornamental piece of jewelry. In use, the magnetic securing device assembly is positioned around a lifted garment of the wearer. The first magnetic element is separated from the second magnetic element attached to the cord. The first magnetic element is then positioned on an opposite side of the garment, and in alignment with the position of the second magnetic element. The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element are then magnetically fastened to each other so that the garment is securely held away from the breast. |
| US08640264B2 |
Cap which utilizes an airfoil effect for inducing cooling
By adding a second smaller bill under the main bill of a cap and creating a gap from the front to the back between the two bills, the two bills create a curved shape that acts like an airfoil and allows the free flow of air over a wearer's forehead, inducing a cooling effect. Besides the benefit of a cooling effect, the appearance of the hat is such that an observer looking at someone wearing it would not be able to tell there was anything overtly different about the design. |
| US08640262B2 |
Towel
A towel with a hood fixed to the top edge and two wristbands mounted on the interior of the towel. A person's wrist may be inserted through each band to secure the towel on the person and selectively wrap the towel around their body. At least one pocket is attached to the interior of the towel. A neck strap encircles the neck to secure the towel and hood in place. Each end of the strap is secured to the exterior surface of the towel at the sides of the hood. As a safety feature, at least one end of the neck strap ends is releasably secured to the surface and can be detached therefrom when a predetermined force is exerted on the strap. The towel can be folded into the interior of the hood and the neck strap used as a handle to hold the towel. |
| US08646111B2 |
Coupled mass-spring systems and imaging methods for scanning probe microscopy
A novel way for constructing and operating scanning probe microscopes to dynamically measure material properties of samples, mainly their surface hardness, by separating the functions of actuation, indentation and sensing into separate dynamic components. The amplitude and phase shift of higher modes occurring at periodic indentations with the sample are characteristic values for different sample materials. A separate sensor cantilever, connected to the indentation probe tip, has the advantage of a high mechanical amplification of a desired higher mode while suppressing the actuation signal itself. The operational range of the sensor can be extended just by switching the actuation signal to another submultiple of the sensor cantilever's resonance frequency and/or by using more than one sensor cantilever for each indentation tip. |
| US08646109B2 |
Method and apparatus of operating a scanning probe microscope
An improved mode of AFM imaging (Peak Force Tapping (PFT) Mode) uses force as the feedback variable to reduce tip-sample interaction forces while maintaining scan speeds achievable by all existing AFM operating modes. Sample imaging and mechanical property mapping are achieved with improved resolution and high sample throughput, with the mode being workable across varying environments, including gaseous, fluidic and vacuum. Ease of use is facilitated by eliminating the need for an expert user to monitor imaging. |
| US08646103B2 |
Method and system for securing online identities
Various methods, systems and apparatus for associating fictitious user identities (e.g. screen names, user names, handles, etc.) used in electronic communications (e.g. over the internet or mobile networks via instant messenger, e-mail, social networks, eCommerce and auction websites, etc.) with real personal information (e.g. the true identity of an individual such as their name, address, credit score, driving record, etc.) are disclosed. One apparatus, according to aspects of the present invention, may include means of associating real personal information, submitted by a user, with fictitious user identities, means of verifying the real personal information and the ownership of the real personal information by the submitting user, and means of receiving a request for some personal information associated with a fictitious user identity, from a remote user, abstracting a user's true identity from information associated with them. |
| US08646099B2 |
Midlet signing and revocation
The present invention is related to a method of securing integrity and authenticating origin and privileges of a piece of code. According to the invention, a method of securing integrity and authenticating origin and privileges of a piece of code in a communication network by digitally signing said piece of code, is characterized by the steps of: providing an aggregator (C), which is a holder of a valid signing certificate, —submitting a developer material to the aggregator, inserting a revocation code into the developer material, building a complete piece of code using the developer material and the revocation code, digitally signing the complete piece of code using the certificate held by the aggregator, making the digitally signed complete piece of code retrievable to the holder (B) of the developer material, providing a server (C2) for authenticating privileges of the digitally signed complete piece of code, —executing the revocation code and checking with the server whether the privileges of the digitally signed complete piece of code have not been revoked. |
| US08646098B2 |
Method and system for software licensing under machine virtualization
A method and system implementing software licensing management under machine virtualization are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a system comprises a virtual platform running on a physical machine; a binding agent running on a host operating system of the virtual platform; a license enforcement module running on a virtual machine instance of the virtual platform. The license enforcement module is in communication with the binding agent. The binding agent enforces a mutex lock to ensure that only a specified number of license enforcement modules are running on the physical machine. |
| US08646096B2 |
Secure time source operations for digital rights management
Various embodiments utilize hardware-enforced boundaries to provide various aspects of digital rights management or DRM in an open computing environment. Against the backdrop of these hardware-enforced boundaries, DRM provisioning techniques are employed to provision such things as keys and DRM software code in a secure and robust way. Further, at least some embodiments utilize secure time provisioning techniques to provision time to the computing environment, as well as techniques that provide for robustly secure storage. |
| US08646095B2 |
Personal site privacy policy
A request, from a requester, is received to view user information on a user's personal site associated with a user. A relationship is determined between the requester and the user. User information is provided to the requester based on the requester's relationship to the user. |
| US08646094B2 |
Method and apparatus for preventing unauthorized access to information stored in a non-volatile memory
A communications device for ensuring secure data transfer provided having an interface device for controlling data transfer, an integrated circuit coupled to the interface device and having a processor, a non-volatile memory for storing at least program code for the processor, a volatile memory, an input pin and an output pin; and an electrical conductor which electrically connects the input pin and the output pin. The electrical conductor passes through an external portion of the enclosure, e.g., a slot, which allows a user to easily sever the electrical conductor. In operation, a portion of the program code detects when the electrical conductor is severed and causes the program code in the non-volatile memory to be erased, data transfer via the interface device to be disabled, and power to the integrated circuit cut off to ensure that all information in volatile memory is erased. |
| US08646092B2 |
Method of dynamic protection of data during the execution of a software code in intermediate language in a digital apparatus
The invention concerns a method for protecting the data of an application compiled in intermediate for execution executed on a digital apparatus equipped with a virtual machine managing the execution of the code via a execution stack defining at least one stack frame corresponding to a method called during the execution of the code. A secured execution mode of the code involves the determination of at least one global checksum associated with each stack frame and, each time that a datum of the code is manipulated, the calculation of a local checksum associated with that datum. The calculation is on one hand, on the global checksum associated with the stack frame corresponding to the manipulated datum and, on the other hand, on at least one part of the other data constituting the stack frame. |
| US08646088B2 |
Runtime enforcement of security checks
A method is disclosed that includes tracking untrusted inputs through an executing program into a sink, the tracking including maintaining context of the sink as strings based on the untrusted inputs flow into the sink. The method also includes, while tracking, in response to a string based on an untrusted input being about to flow into the sink and a determination the string could lead to an attack if the string flows into a current context of the sink, endorsing the string using an endorser selected based at least on the current context of the sink, and providing the endorsed string to the sink. Computer program products and apparatus are also disclosed. |
| US08646085B2 |
Apparatus for reconfiguration of a technical system based on security analysis and a corresponding technical decision support system and computer program product
The invention relates to an apparatus for analyzing and reconfiguring a technical system (2) with respect to security, as well as a corresponding decision support system and computer program product. A graph constructor (20) provides, based on technical information about the system (2) received via an input interface (10), a representation of potential attacks in a directed graph of attack nodes. A system/countermeasure analysis unit (30) ranks different sets of countermeasures to enable a selected set of countermeasures to be taken to improve security. The analysis unit (30) performs the following procedure for each set of countermeasures: i) logically apply the set of countermeasures to attacks in the directed graph, and ii) determine a rank of the applied set of countermeasures based on the effectiveness of the countermeasures with respect to the reduction of the risk of attacks. An output and/or control unit (40) may then provide appropriate control signaling and/or effectuate appropriate control actions for reconfiguration of the technical system (2). |
| US08646082B2 |
USB firewall apparatus and method
Apparatus and methods prevent malicious data in Universal Serial Bus (USB) configurations by providing a hardware firewall. A hardware device interconnected between a host and the USB monitors communication packets and blocks packets having unwanted or malicious intent. The device may act as a hub, enabling multiple devices to connect to a single host. The device may only allow mass storage packets from a device recognized as a mass storage device. The device may block enumeration of unwanted devices by not forwarding packets between the device and the host. The device may be operative to assign a bogus address to a malicious device so as not to transfer communications from the device further up the chain to the host. The device may provide shallow or deep packet inspection to determine when a trusted device is sending possible malicious data, or provide packet validation to block packets that are malformed. |
| US08646080B2 |
Method and apparatus for removing harmful software
Embodiments of the invention address the problem of removing malicious code from infected computers. |
| US08646079B2 |
Systems and methods for using property tables to perform non-iterative malware scans
A computer-implemented method for using property tables to perform non-iterative malware scans may include (1) obtaining at least one malware signature from a security software provider that identifies at least one property value for an item of malware, (2) accessing a property table for a computing device that identifies property values shared by one or more application packages installed on the computing device and, for each property value, each application package that shares the property value in question, and (3) determining, by comparing each property value identified in the malware signature with the property table, whether any of the application packages match the malware signature without having to iterate through the individual property values of each application package. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08646078B2 |
MIME handling security enforcement
A model restricts un-trusted data/objects from running on a user's machine without permission. The data is received by a protocol layer that reports a MIME type associated with the DATA, and caches the data and related cache file name (CFN). A MIME sniffer is arranged to identify a sniffed MIME type based on the cached data, the CFN, and the reported MIME type. Reconciliation logic evaluates the sniffed MIME type and the CFN to determine a reconciled MIME type, and to update the CFN. A class ID sniffer evaluates the updated CFN, the cached data, and the reconciled MIME type to determine an appropriate class ID. Security logic evaluates the updated CFN, the reported class ID, and other related system parameters to build a security matrix. Parameters from the security matrix are used to intercept data/objects before an un-trusted data/object can create a security breach on the machine. |
| US08646075B2 |
Analysis system for unknown application layer protocols
An analysis system for unknown application layer protocols, which could automatically discover unknown applications existing in a network, and then obtain keywords, attribute values, status codes or type codes representing semantic meaning of each field in each type of unknown application as well as message formats, dialogue rules and status transfer relations of application layer protocols by using cluster analysis and optimal partitioning method based on hidden semi-Markov model. Unknown application analysis result could be used for flow management and safety protection of a network. The system has the following advantages: it avoids difficulties arising from manual discovery and analysis of unknown applications, and improves network management efficiency and responding speed against new types of network attacks. |
| US08646073B2 |
Detection of account hijacking in a social network
To protect a user of a social network, the user's activity is monitored during a baseline monitoring period to determine a baseline activity record. If subsequently monitored activity of the user deviates sufficiently from the baseline activity record to indicate abuse (hijacking) of the user's account, the abuse is mitigated, for example by notifying the user of the abuse. Monitored activity includes posting links, updating statuses, sending messages, and changing a profile. Monitoring also includes logging times of the user activity. Monitoring anomalous profile changes does not need a baseline. |
| US08646070B1 |
Verifying authenticity in data storage management systems
A storage area network management application operates using agents for management of resources. Authenticity is verified in installing an agent on a host computer system in the storage area network. A file is identified for use in installing the agent. The file is signed to produce a digital signature for the file. A certificate is sent to a recipient for use in verifying authenticity of information. The file and digital signature are sent to the recipient. At the recipient, the certificate and the digital signature are used to verify the file. An agent installation operation is performed, using the file, to install the agent on the host computer system. |
| US08646065B2 |
Method for routing bi-directional connections in a telecommunication network by means of a signalling protocol via an interposed firewall with address transformation device and also a telecommunication network and security and tunnel device for this
The invention relates to a method for routing a bi-directional end-to-end connection between an end subscriber and the domain of a service provider by means of a signalling protocol via an interposed firewall with address transformation device, wherein by means of a security and tunnel device, located in the end-to-end connection between the end subscriber and the firewall with address transformation device in the domain of the end subscriber, and a session border controller, located in the end-to-end connection in the domain of the service provider, a tunnel is set up between the security and tunnel device and the session border controller and a bi-directional data exchange takes place via the tunnel between the end subscriber and the domain of the service provider in the area between the security and tunnel device and the session border controller by means of a tunnel protocol, and also a telecommunication network and a security and tunnel device for this. |
| US08646064B1 |
Determining the likelihood of traffic being legitimately received at a proxy server in a cloud-based proxy service
Message(s) are received from each one of multiple proxy servers, which are anycasted to the same IP address, that indicate source IP addresses of packets that are received that are directed to that same IP address. These proxy servers receive the packets as result of domain(s) resolving to that same IP address, and a particular one of the proxy servers receives the packets as a result of an anycast protocol implementation selecting that proxy server. Based on these message(s) from each of the proxy servers, a determination of the likelihood of a packet having a particular source IP address being legitimately received at each of the proxy servers is determined A message is transmitted to each of the proxy servers that indicates which source IP addresses of packets are not likely to be legitimately received at that proxy server. |
| US08646054B1 |
Mechanism to manage access to user data area with bridged direct-attached storage devices
The present invention provides a bridged, direct-attached storage device that can be secured and work with any host system. In one embodiment, the storage device is configured with a secured user area and an unlocking mechanism for access to the secured user area. The storage device may comprise a translation module having a bridge that presents multiple logical units to a host. In addition, the storage device may comprise a controller having its own encryption engine to encrypt the entire user area of the storage media. In one embodiment, the storage device presents the unlocking mechanism via a second logical device as a read-only device, such as a CD/DVD-ROM, or virtual CD device. The secondary logical device comprises executable code, which allows the user, for example, to enter, change, or remove the password and unlock the user area. |
| US08646050B2 |
System and method for supporting JIT in a secure system with randomly allocated memory ranges
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for processing just-in-time code at a device that enforces a code signing requirement. The disclosure includes receiving computer code, where a portion of the code includes executable just-in-time code, at a device that enforces a code signing requirement; identifying the unsigned just-in-time executable portion of code; allocating a randomly selected memory region on the device for at least some of the unsigned just-in-time executable portion; and executing the unsigned just-in-time executable portion of code in the randomly selected memory region as if the unsigned just-in-time executable portion of code was signed computer code. |
| US08646046B2 |
Distributed digital rights management system and method
A digital rights management system includes an authentication module and a decryption module. If desired, the modules can be implemented in separate integrated circuits. The authentication module retrieves authentication information for protected content and powers down after the authentication information is retrieved. The decryption module decrypts the protected content based on the authentication information while the authentication module is powered down. |
| US08646045B1 |
Bank speech authentication
Authentication mechanisms are disclosed herein that authenticate user access to enterprises. For example, either an enterprise associated number or a social security number (SSN) can be provided to the enterprise to enter a first level. Then, any one of a ZIP code number, a device calling/contacting number, a date of birth, and a portion of the SSN can be provided to access applications in the first level. Lastly, a PIN can be provided to enter a second level of the enterprise. Additionally, these authentication mechanisms can be added and/or changed. In the former case, if a user used a SSN to enter the mentioned first level of the enterprise, then a date of birth can be used to update an authentication mechanism. Alternatively, if a user used an enterprise number to gain such access, then part of the SSN can be used for the update. If the user wants to change the authentication mechanism, the date of birth can be used for the update. |
| US08646039B2 |
Automated peer authentication
An apparatus and methods are disclosed for performing peer authentication without the assistance of a human “guard.” In accordance with the illustrative embodiments, a peer is selected from a non-empty set of candidates at authentication time based on one or more of the following dynamic properties: the current geo-location of the user to be authenticated; the current geo-locations of the candidates; the current time; the contents of one or more directories (e.g., a telephone directory, an organizational chart or directory, etc.), the contents of one or more call logs; and the candidates' schedules. |
| US08646036B2 |
Network system of projector
A network system of a projector is provided in which a network connection is established between a plurality of information terminal apparatus and the projector, and an image data file owned by an information terminal apparatus can be commonly used. A network system of a projector is arranged by an information terminal apparatus and a projector connectable to the information terminal apparatus via a network. The information terminal apparatus is arranged by a personal computer which supplies image data to the projector, and personal computers which are connected to this personal computer by a wireless manner When the network connection is established between the personal computer and the projector, and when the network connection between the personal computer and the personal computers is established, the image data is commonly used among these personal computers. |
| US08646034B2 |
Bootstrap of NFC application using GBA
The present invention provides a bootstrap system comprising a network system and a mobile handset where the mobile handset can easily receive services of NFC bootstrap application. The handset is effectively authenticated after a bootstrap controller in the network verifies whether a user credential derived in the mobile handset and a user credential separately received from a network server are equal. The application setting is sent to a handset from a bootstrap controller via ad-hoc near field communication (NFC) between the mobile handset and the bootstrap controller. Then the user of the mobile handset can receive various services of the NFC application after the network server delivers the user credential to the service devices with NFC interface. |
| US08646033B2 |
Packet relay apparatus
A packet relay apparatus keeps only packets specified as authentication target packets of MAC address authentication, to reduce the number of packets to be transferred from H/W to a CPU. In addition to a source MAC address, the authentication target packet of MAC address authentication is specified by an Ethernet type, a destination IP address, a protocol, a source port number and a destination port number of TCP/UDP, and the like. In this way, the packet relay apparatus excludes a terminal not transmitting authentication target packets of MAC address authentication, from the MAC address authentication target, while allowing selection from other authentication methods such as Web authentication and IEEE802.1X authentication. |
| US08646032B2 |
Method and apparatus providing privacy setting and monitoring user interface
A method and an apparatus provide for operating a user interface of a device to receive from a user, for individual ones of a plurality of user privacy categories, a user privacy setting; to map each user privacy setting to one or more device sensors to form a sensor policy for the user privacy category; and to monitor application program accesses to device sensors to detect a violation of a sensor policy. An aspect of the exemplary embodiments of this invention is the user interface that can represent privacy levels of each application program to the user in a “user-friendly” format. Another aspect of the exemplary embodiments is to provide the user device with an ability to detect and act on or at least report privacy violations by the application programs. |
| US08646027B2 |
Workflow based authorization for content access
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for workflow based authorization for content access. A workflow can be triggered when a protection policy does not fully express an intended recipient's rights in protected content. A workflow processes relevant inputs to more fully express the intended recipient's rights in protected content. Workflows can provide policy item updates and authorizations decisions with respect to protected content. Through the use of workflows to make an authorization decision, access to information can become more flexible, allowing it to follow the desired flow of information throughout its lifecycle. This flexibility allows organizations to protect their information without worrying about the protection stopping the natural flow of business. |
| US08646026B2 |
Smart web services security policy selection and validation
A computer-implemented method to select a web service security policy alternative can comprise selecting a web service security policy alternative at runtime based on previously collected data concerning web service and using the selected web service security policy alternative for a web service message. In addition, a computer-implemented method to prevent intrusion can use a honey policy that can be defined by the administrator in order to attract and closely monitor the hackers. |
| US08646025B2 |
Automated local exception rule generation system, method and computer program product
A system, method and computer program product are provided for automatically generating a rule exception. An event is identified that at least potentially violates a rule. Thereafter, an exception to the rule is automatically generated. |
| US08646022B2 |
Methods and apparatus to configure broadband-enabled entertainment systems
Methods and apparatus to configure broadband-enabled entertainment systems are disclosed. An example method comprises presenting a first user interface to enable a user to configure a communication service between a residential gateway and a service provider, detecting a set-top box communicatively coupled to the residential gateway, directing the set-top box to present a second user interface, the second user interface to accept a security key to enable communication between the residential gateway and the set-top box, and presenting a third user interface to provide the security key to the user and to instruct the user to utilize the second user interface to provide the security key to the set-top box. |
| US08646021B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing an interactive application within a media stream
An approach provides interactive application and advertisement within media streams. A program map table of a media stream is retrieved, wherein the program map table includes a plurality of private descriptor fields that permit user specified tag values. One of the descriptor fields is configured to indicate whether the media stream is associated with an interactive application or advertisement information. |
| US08646020B2 |
Method and apparatus for browsing using alternative linkbases
Systems and methods for navigating hypermedia using multiple coordinated input/output device sets. Disclosed systems and methods allow a user and/or an author to control what resources are presented on which device sets (whether they are integrated or not), and provide for coordinating browsing activities to enable such a user interface to be employed across multiple independent systems. Disclosed systems and methods also support new and enriched aspects and applications of hypermedia browsing and related business activities. |
| US08646019B2 |
Systems and methods for awarding affinity points based upon remote control usage
Systems and methods for providing and promoting television programming, advertisements, and other content to selected viewers. A display is provided on a remote control device, prompts are provided on the display, and viewer responses to those prompts are monitored, stored in memory, and thereafter processed to reward viewers for responding properly to the prompts. Various methods for promoting such programs are also described. |
| US08646017B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing collaborative viewing of a media stream
A method and apparatus for providing collaborative viewing of a media stream are disclosed. For example, the method establishes a viewing group having a plurality of members, and provides at least one media stream that is accessible by the plurality of members of the viewing group. The method then receives one or more annotations from at least one of the plurality of members of the viewing group relating to the at least one media stream, and saves each of the one or more annotations with a temporal marker. The method then provides the one or more annotations to at least one of the plurality of members of the viewing group. |
| US08646016B2 |
Content storage and delivery systems and associated methods
Systems and methods are provided for the storage of content on a network and the delivery of content to subscriber locations. According to one system and method, content is delivered to a set-top box from a content source in the process of transmitting the same content to another set-top box. The content source instructs a shared router to duplicate the content such that the content is transmitted to the requesting set-top boxes substantially simultaneously. According to another system and method, a server and cache provide dynamic caching of content such that requests for content are satisfied from the cache if possible. If the requested content is not found in the cache, the content is requested from alternate source and added to the cache. Weight values associated with the stored files are updated such that the more frequently requested files are maintained in the cache. |
| US08646012B2 |
System and method of mapping customer premise equipment in a VOD system of a cable service provider
A system, method, and web-based application platform enabling a television viewer to utilize an Internet device to request a Video-On-Demand (VOD) server to stream a selected video to the viewer's Set Top Box (STB). An Internet Protocol (IP) connection is established between the Internet device and an application executing at a web site, and an Internet device identifier is passed to the application. The application communicates with the VOD server to obtain a listing of available videos, and provides the listing to the Internet device. When the viewer selects a video, the application accesses an equipment-mapping table, which associates the Internet device identifier with an STB identifier. The application then sends the STB identifier and a request for the selected video to the VOD server, which delivers the video to the STB over a television delivery system. |
| US08646004B1 |
Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor; a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories. |
| US08646003B2 |
Method and device for displaying electronic program guide
A method and device for displaying a broadcasting program are disclosed. An electronic program guide (EPG) is newly generated according to user set option information and the EPG is displayed on a screen on user's request. |
| US08646000B2 |
Augmented remote controller and method for operating the same
An image display may be controlled on a remote controller based on augmented reality. An image display apparatus may be identified that is connected to a network or located about the remote controller. A search may be made for content information regarding content playable in the identified image display apparatus. The content information may be received based on the searching. A screen may display a content guide image based on the received content information while simultaneously displaying an image of the identified image display apparatus. |
| US08645999B2 |
Method of processing EPG metadata in network device and the network device for controlling the same
A method of processing EPG metadata in a network according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the steps of performing a services discovery procedure utilizing multiple service discovery metadata components supplied by a service provider and processing an EPG metadata. Moreover, the performing step includes the steps of receiving a master SI table which locates in a master SI table location in provisioning information, wherein the provisioning information includes multiple elements, an EPG provider information element in the multiple elements having both a delivery layer element and an EPG data locator element, the delivery layer element giving a type of delivery layer that is delivered by at least one of an EPG metadata provider's multicast EPG data sources, receiving a virtual channel map table which locates in virtual channel map locations in the received master SI table, receiving a virtual channel description table which locates in virtual channel description table locations in the received virtual channel map table, and receiving a source table which locates in source table locations in the received virtual channel description table. |
| US08645995B2 |
Communication system and method
A remote control device for consumer broadcast receivers, particularly television and radio receivers, is disclosed. In addition to the remote control features normally found on such a device, the device also contains a display on which advertisements, product and service offers, and other information (collectively, “display data”) may be shown to the user. The device receives such display data via a radio link from one of a plurality of central processing stations. The user of the device may interact with such display data (for example, to purchase an advertised good), and the device may send back details of such interactions to a central processing station, which in turn may initiate a transaction with the appropriate sponsoring party. |
| US08645994B2 |
Brand detection in audiovisual media
This document describes techniques and apparatuses enabling brand detection in audiovisual media. The techniques detect a brand exposed within audiovisual media, such as a name or logo for a product or service, and based on this brand, present a brand advertisement or enable selection of an interactive experience that is associated with the brand. By so doing, marketers enable viewers to quickly and easily learn more about the product or service. |
| US08645993B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for directing recipients of video content items to interesting video content items
A method of directing a recipient of video content items employing a mobile device to at least one video content item of interest to the recipient comprises: storing a plurality of predetermined pattern identifiers and corresponding pattern data, the pattern identifiers and pattern data generated by reference to data predictive of recipient interest; detecting a predetermined pattern in at least one video content item by reference to the stored pattern data; and in response to the detection, transmitting an indication of the at least one video content item and the pattern identifier corresponding to the stored pattern data used to detect the predetermined pattern in the video content item to a plurality of mobile devices including the mobile device employed by the recipient, the indication directing the recipient to the video content item that is associated with the detected predetermined pattern that is of interest to the recipient. This allows users to follow desired live events without having to watch undesirable programming waiting for something interesting to happen. |
| US08645991B2 |
Method and apparatus for annotating media streams
In one embodiment, the invention is a method and apparatus for annotating media streams. One embodiment of a method for facilitating creation of an annotated media stream by a user includes receiving the media stream from the user, mapping at least one item of supplemental content to at least a portion of the media stream to produce the annotated media stream, and storing the annotated media stream. In another embodiment, a method for distributing an annotated media stream provided by a user includes receiving the annotated media stream from the user, where the annotated media stream includes at least one item of supplemental content mapped to at least a portion of a media stream to produce the annotated media stream, storing the annotated media stream, receiving a request from a viewer to view the annotated media stream, and distributing the annotated media stream to the viewer. In another embodiment, a method for distributing an annotated media stream provided by a user includes distributing the annotated media stream to a viewer, where the annotated media stream includes at least one item of supplemental content mapped to at least a portion of a media stream to produce the annotated media stream, and collecting a commission when the annotated media stream is viewed by the viewer. In one embodiment, the collecting requires further action on a part of the viewer (such as selection of a hyperlink contained in the at least one item of supplemental content or consummation of a commercial transaction). |
| US08645990B2 |
Dynamic advertising control
Subscribers request programs from a network based content server and view the requested programs via their customer equipment. The content server receives various programs and breaks the program content for each program into a sequence of program segments, which are logically linked by program association indicia. The content server also receives advertisements and stores the advertisements as advertising segments, which generally contain at least one complete advertisement, but the invention is not limited thereto. Upon receiving a program request from a subscriber, the content server will identify advertising segments to provide along with the program segments for the requested program, and where to place the advertising segments among the program segments. Next, the content server will generate composite association indicia identifying the sequence of program and advertising segments, and effect delivery of the program and advertising segments to the subscriber in the sequence defined by the composite association indicia. |
| US08645985B2 |
System and method for detecting user attention
A system and method for conditioning execution of a control function on a determination of whether or not a person's attention is directed toward a predetermined device. The method involves acquiring data concerning the activity of a person who is in the proximity of the device, the data being in the form of one or more temporal samples. One or more of the temporal samples is then analyzed to determine if the person's activity during the time of the analyzed samples indicates that the person's attention is not directed toward the device. The results of the determination are used to ascertain whether or not the control function should be performed. |
| US08645984B1 |
Method and system for verifying content authenticity in smart TV
A system for determining the authenticity of a received channel via an Internet port of a smart TV having (a) a first streamer for receiving a channel A via said Internet port, and forwarding a respective video stream of the channel to a synchronizer; (b) a second streamer for receiving a same channel A via a traditional port, and forwarding a respective video stream of the channel to said synchronizer; (c) said synchronizer synchronizing between the two streams, and outputting the two synchronized streams respectively to a correlator; and (d) said correlator correlating between corresponding frames of the stream, and when a similarity above a predefined threshold is determined, declaring channel A as received via the Internet port as authentic; otherwise, if a similarity below a predefined threshold is determined, declaring by the correlator that channel A as received via the Internet port is non-authentic. |
| US08645983B2 |
System and method for audible channel announce
Audibly announcing program channels is provided upon the detection of a channel information display, such as a programming banner or graphical channel representation. In response to the channel information display being detected, data corresponding to the channel information display may be captured and parsed. Once speech data representative of the current program channel has been generated, an audible announcement of the program channel may be made to the user, thereby enabling visually impaired individuals to ascertain the currently selected program channel. In another embodiment, the broadcast network corresponding to the current program channel may also be identified and audibly announced with the current program channel. |
| US08645977B2 |
Extensible application virtualization subsystems
An extensible virtualization system provides an object model and manages a virtual application lifecycle in a way that allows new virtualization subsystems to be added to extend a virtualization product without reworking the product itself. Virtualizing an application generally involves three steps: metadata extraction, metadata storage and reconstitution, and runtime management of requests. The extensible virtualization system receives notification of an application preparation session and allows virtualization subsystems to monitor the session to collect configuration information specific to each subsystem that the application uses to run on a client. Each subsystem provides collected information to the extensible virtualization system, which stores the collected information until the application to be virtualized is deployed. When the application is deployed, the system invokes the same virtualization subsystem and provides the subsystem with the stored information. |
| US08645973B2 |
Mobile applications
Providing a framework for developing, deploying and managing sophisticated mobile solutions, with a simple Web-like programming model that integrates with existing enterprise components. Mobile applications may consist of a data model definition, user interface templates, a client side controller, which includes scripts that define actions, and, on the server side, a collection of conduits, which describe how to mediate between the data model and the enterprise. In one embodiment, the occasionally-connected application server assumes that data used by mobile applications is persistently stored and managed by external systems. The occasionally-connected data model can be a METAdata description of the mobile application's anticipated usage of this data, and be optimized to enable the efficient traversal and synchronization of this data between occasionally connected devices and external systems. |
| US08645972B2 |
Method and system for interface data utilization
Methods and system for interface data utilization are described. In one embodiment, source interface data may be provided from a provider. The source interface data may be capable of being used to provide a source user interface for a networked resource associated with the provider. A user request may be received through the source user interface. A service call may be provided over a network to an application based on the receiving of the user request. The application may be associated with an application manager. Response data may be received over the network from the application based on the service call. Target interface data may be rendered based on the response data. The target interface data may be provided from the provider. |
| US08645966B2 |
Managing resource allocation and configuration of model building components of data analysis applications
Data analysis applications include model building components and stream processing components. To increase utility of the data analysis application, in one embodiment, the model building component of the data analysis application is managed. Management includes resource allocation and/or configuration adaptation of the model building component, as examples. |
| US08645964B2 |
System and method for accelerating input/output access operation on a virtual machine
A system and method for accelerating input/output (IO) access operation on a virtual machine, The method comprises providing a smart IO device that includes an unrestricted command queue (CQ) and a plurality of restricted CQs and allowing a guest domain to directly configure and control IO resources through a respective restricted CQ, the IO resources allocated to the guest domain. In preferred embodiments, the allocation of IO resources to each guest domain is performed by a privileged virtual switching element. In some embodiments, the smart IO device is a HCA and the privileged virtual switching element is a Hypervisor. |
| US08645963B2 |
Clustering threads based on contention patterns
Techniques for grouping two or more threads based on lock contention information are provided. The techniques include determining lock contention information with respect to two or more threads, using the lock contention information with respect to the two or more threads to determine lock affinity between the two or more threads, using the lock affinity between the two or more threads to group the two or more threads into one or more thread clusters, and using the one or more thread clusters to perform scheduling of one or more threads. |
| US08645962B2 |
Instruction generating apparatus including a receiving section, a determining section, and a generation section, document processing system, and a computer readable medium
An instruction generating apparatus includes a receiving section and a generating section. The receiving section receives job information including a plurality of jobs determined in a given order. Each job includes a process of a document by a processing device. The generating section generates instruction information based on the job information received by the receiving section. The instruction information includes, in the given order, a plurality of sets of (i) document corresponding to each job and (ii) detailed process of the document so as to instruct the processing device to perform each document process. |
| US08645960B2 |
Method and apparatus for data processing using queuing
A computing device is provided having a central processing unit, random access memory, and read only memory interconnected by a bus. The central processing unit is configured to execute a plurality of programming instructions representing a plurality of software objects. The software objects comprise a read queue for storing unprocessed packets and a write queue for storing processed packets. The software objects include a reader thread for reading packets from the read queue and a lock free queue for receiving packets received via the reader thread. The software objects also include at least one processor thread for performing an operation on the packets in the lock free queue. The software objects include a writer thread for writing packets that have been processed by the at least one processor thread to the write queue. |
| US08645957B2 |
Optimized datacenter management by centralized task execution through dependency inversion
A Datacenter Management Service (DMS) is provided as a platform designed to automate datacenter management tasks that are performed across multiple technology silos and datacenter servers or collections of servers. The infrastructure to perform the automation is provided by integrating heterogeneous task providers and implementations into a set of standardized adapters through dependency inversion. A platform automating datacenter management tasks may include three main components: integration of adapters into an interface allowing a common interface for datacenter task execution, an execution platform that works against the adapters, and implementation of the adapters for a given type of datacenter management task. |
| US08645956B2 |
Method and computer system for designing and/or providing computer-aided tasks for medical task flows
A method and a computer system are disclosed for designing and/or providing computer-aided tasks for medical task flows. In at least one embodiment, the method includes providing one or more tasks of at least one task flow, which can exchange data with one or a number of other tasks, in so far as they comply with at least one requirement for exchanging data; providing task flow management, which manages requirements in respect of a task and grants a task access for a task flow according to at least one of the requirements; providing at least one task container, which is made available as host for a task, in so far as the task complies with at least one requirement for access to the host; and providing at least one domain platform, which is used to convert the functionality and logic of at least one task, in so far as the task complies with at least one requirement in respect of the conversion. |
| US08645955B2 |
Multitasking method and apparatus for reconfigurable array
Provided are a multitasking method and apparatus. By continuously maintaining the intrinsic information of each peripheral processing unit of when a process-centered task is stopped, when a reconfigurable array stops executing the process-centered task and executes a different process-centered task, by stopping executing a control-centered task and executing a reconfiguration task, only when the reconfigurable array receives an execution request of the reconfiguration task while the reconfigurable array is performing the control-centered task, or by causing a predetermined number of processing units to execute each of a plurality of reconfiguration tasks that are to be simultaneously executed by the reconfigurable array, wherein the predetermined number of processing units is set in consideration of an expected data processing amount required for the reconfiguration task, the reconfigurable array can more quickly complete execution of multitasking. |
| US08645954B2 |
Computing system capable of reducing power consumption by distributing execution of instruction across multiple processors and method therefore
Briefly, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a portable communication device includes multiple processors having a monitor. The monitors of the processors may consult to determine which processor is best suited to execute a set of instructions. |
| US08645951B2 |
Supporting heterogeneous virtualization
Machine-readable media, methods, apparatus and system are described. In some embodiments, a virtual machine monitor of a computer platform may comprise a service virtual machine created by the virtual machine monitor partitioning an underlying hardware machine to support execution of a plurality of overlying guest operating systems, wherein the plurality of guest operating systems comprise a guest operating system complying with a non-native guest system architecture different from a host system architecture with which the hardware machine complies. The service virtual machine may further comprise a translation layer to translate instructions from the guest operating system complying with the non-native guest system architecture into instructions complying with the host system architecture. |
| US08645950B2 |
Virtual machine image analysis
Techniques for analyzing virtual machine images are described. In one embodiment, a subset of settings is extracted from one or more virtual machine images, the virtual machine images store therein values of the settings. The settings are used by software executing in virtual machines of the virtual machine images, respectively. A target one of the virtual machine images is selected and target values of the settings are obtained from the target virtual machine image. Sample values of the settings are obtained from a plurality of virtual machine images. The subset formed by identifying similarities and differences of the values between the virtual machine images. |
| US08645947B2 |
Apparatus and method for establishing dependencies in a software dependency map
A virtual installation map, and method involving installing a software functionality using the same, the virtual installation map including a first software installation map including a plurality of software elements representative of a related software file, the software elements also including at least one dependency to another software element. The virtual installation map further including a second software installation map also including a second plurality of software elements representative of related software file along with related dependencies. The first and second software installation maps may be hosted in separate databases and may relate to software products provided by different vendors. One or both software installation maps may include a pointer or other reference to the other installation map thereby providing a virtual installation map, in one example. |
| US08645946B2 |
Apparatus and method for rollback of software updates
A virtual installation map, and method involving installing a software functionality using the same, the virtual installation map including a first software installation map including a plurality of software elements representative of a related software file, the software elements also including at least one dependency to another software element. The virtual installation map further including a second software installation map also including a second plurality of software elements representative of related software file along with related dependencies. The first and second software installation maps may be hosted in separate databases and may relate to software products provided by different vendors. One or both software installation maps may include a pointer or other reference to the other installation map thereby providing a virtual installation map, in one example. |
| US08645945B2 |
Method and apparatus for dynamic middleware assembly
In one embodiment, the present invention is a method and apparatus for dynamic middleware assembly. One embodiment of the inventive method for dynamically assembling middleware at a client involves selecting a middleware component from a group of middleware components, where the selection is based at least in part on a first profile defining characteristics of the client and a second profile defining characteristics the selected middleware component. The selected middleware component is then dynamically assembled (installed and configured) at the client. |
| US08645943B2 |
Communication system, communication device, and management server device
A communication system includes: a communication device configured to operate various functions using software programs stored in a software storage unit; a management server device configured to send an updating software program corresponding to one of the software programs; an operation information obtaining unit configured to obtain operation information of the software programs in the communication device; a determination unit configured to determine a software program that needs updating among the software programs based on the operation information obtained by the operation information obtaining unit; and an updating unit configured to replace the software program that is stored in the software storage unit and determined by the determination unit to need updating with the updating software program. |
| US08645941B2 |
Method for attributing and allocating revenue related to embedded software
A method for attributing revenue for embedded software. The method includes the first step of determining the presence of more than one type of embedded software on a given client site. Then, the process assigns priority based on the length of time each type has resided on the client system and the source of each type, followed by classifying each software type, based on the history of present and predecessor copies of the software. A distribution factor is applied to each software type, based on priority and classification, partner revenue is distributed based on the distribution factor applied to each software type. |
| US08645939B2 |
Use of aliasing in an installer
An installer can use an alias to indicate a combined software program. The combined program can include multiple software products. The software products can each be independently runnable. The alias can be used by the installer system to install the multiple software products automatically. |
| US08645935B2 |
Automatic parallelization using binary rewriting
Binary rewriters that do not require relocation information and automatic parallelizers within binary rewriters are provided, as well as methods for performing binary rewriting and automatic parallelization. The method, in certain embodiments. includes disassembling a binary file and determining functions in the disassembled binary file. The method can further include rewriting the binary file without relying on relocation information or object files. Optionally, the method can further include performing automatic parallelization of the binary before rewriting the binary file. |
| US08645934B2 |
Simultaneous compiler binary optimizations
The present invention provides a method to optimize object code files produced by a compiler for several different types of target processors. The compiler divides the source code to be compiled into several functional modules. Given a specified set of target processors, each functional module is compiled resulting in a target object version for each target processor. Then, for each functional module, a merging process is performed wherein identical target object versions or target object versions with similar contents are merged by deleting the identical or similar versions. After this merging process, a composite object code file is formed containing all of the non-deleted target object versions of the function modules. |
| US08645930B2 |
System and method for obfuscation by common function and common function prototype
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for obfuscating by a common function. A system configured to practice the method identifies a set of functions in source code, generates a transformed set of functions by transforming each function of the set of functions to accept a uniform set of arguments and return a uniform type, and merges the transformed set of functions into a single recursive function. The single recursive function can allocate memory in the heap. The stack can contain a pointer to the allocated memory in the heap. The single recursive function can include instructions for creating and explicitly managing a virtual stack in the heap. The virtual stack can emulate what would happen to the real stack if one of the set of functions was called. The system can further compile the source code including the single recursive function. |
| US08645928B2 |
Localizing a java GUI application without source code modification and rebuilding
A method, computer system and computer program product localize a source language user interface of software application to a target language user interface. While the software application is executing using the source language user interface, source language GUI component text of a GUI component is extracted from bytecode of the software application. The extracted source language GUI component text is formed into a localization pack file. The source language GUI component text of the localization pack file is translated to the target language. In response to the software application executing again, the translated GUI component text is loaded from the translated localization pack file. The GUI component is displayed with the translated GUI component text. |
| US08645927B2 |
Methods and apparatus for simulation speedup
A method of performing a numerical simulation includes programming a programmable device using function blocks adapted to perform a respective part of the numerical simulation. Input data are received, and a first portion of the numerical simulation is performed on a standard computer processor. A data path is provided between the processor and the programmable device. A second portion of the numerical simulation is performed on the programmable device, and data from at least one of the first and second portions are exchanged via the data path. |
| US08645923B1 |
Enforcing expected control flow in program execution
When a program is loaded for execution, all code pages of the program except the one containing the entry point are set to be non-executable. When the executing program attempts to jump between code pages, an exception is thrown. Responsive to such an exception, a control flow graph of the program is examined, to determine if the attempted jump between code pages is expected. If the attempted jump is not expected, it is determined that the program is attempting a malicious activity. If the attempted jump is expected, the code page to which the program is attempting to jump is set to be executable, and control is returned to the program such that the jump executes. |