| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08663066B2 |
Powertrain driveline warm-up system and method
A powertrain/driveline warm-up system includes a vehicle controller, an electrical power source interfacing with the vehicle controller, at least one heater interfacing with the vehicle controller and at least a portion of a vehicle powertrain provided in thermal contact with the at least one heater. |
| US08663060B2 |
Epicyclic joint
The various embodiments disclosed and pictured herein are directed to an epicyclic joint with at least one axis of rotation. The epicyclic joint includes rotational members mounted to frame members in such a manner that rotational energy may be transposed along multiple axes of rotation without the need for the frame members to rotate. Epicyclic gear sets and compensation gears and shafts are employed to mitigate vibration, stress, and perturbation of the rotating members when the orientation of the epicyclic joint is varied along any of the axes of rotation. Planetary gear sets or differential gear sets may be used with the epicyclic joint, as may spur gears and miter gears. |
| US08663059B2 |
Automotive vehicle transmission device comprising a supporting pin
A transmission device for an automotive vehicle, which device includes a first spur gear transmission section, a second spur gear transmission section and a plurality of double planet pins. The double planet pins extend from a first side section to a second side section. Each of the double planet pins carries one first planet of the first set of planets and one second planet of the second set of planets. A plurality of supporting pins are also provided, each of the supporting pins carrying one third planet of the third set of planets. The supporting pins extend from the first side section to the second side section. |
| US08663055B2 |
10-gear automatic transmission
The invention concerns an automatic transmission of planetary structure, comprising a drive input shaft (AN), a drive output shaft (AB), first, second, third and fourth planetary gear sets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4) and six shifting element (A, B, C, D, E, F). By the selective engagement of three of a total of six shifting elements (A to F), ten forward gears and up to two reverse gears can be engaged without range shifts. |
| US08663052B2 |
Infinitely variable transmission device of a drive train of a vehicle
An infinitely variable transmission device (4) for a vehicle drivetrain (1) which includes a variator (8) and a gearshift transmission device (9), which produce gear ratios in a plurality of ratio ranges with continuous variation. The device has a planetary transmission device (7) in active connection with a transmission input (12), in an area of a first shaft (11), with the gearshift transmission device (9), in an area of a second shaft (14), and with the variator (8), in an area of a third shaft (16). The torque to be transmitted by the transmission device (4) passes, via at least two power paths, between the transmission input (12) and a transmission output (10). The variator (8) is arranged in one of the two power paths and the gearshift transmission device (9) is arranged between the variator (8) and the transmission output (10). |
| US08663042B2 |
Apparatus for driving and braking a shaft
An apparatus for driving and braking a cutting blade of a lawn mower is disclosed. The apparatus includes a shaft extending through a housing for rotating the blade, and an engine-driven pulley. The apparatus includes means for biasing the pulley toward the housing, and means for translating the pulley away from the housing. The apparatus has a stopped position in which the pulley and housing are in friction contact, and a cutting position in which the pulley and housing are not in friction contact. When the engine delivers power to the pulley, the apparatus moves from the stopped position to the cutting position such that the pulley and the housing are not in friction contact and the blade rotates. When power delivery to the pulley ceases, the apparatus moves from the cutting position to the stopped position, placing the pulley and housing in friction contact, and the blade stops. |
| US08663039B2 |
Sporting base
A sporting base includes a main base body, a securing seat, and a ground-insertable securing unit. The main base body includes a shock-absorbing core that has a bottom surface formed with an upwardly-extending inserting hole. The securing seat is disposed fittingly and separably into the inserting hole of the main base body, and is configured to be placed stably on the ground. The securing unit is for securing the securing seat to the ground. |
| US08663038B2 |
Basketball hoop and net assembly
The invention therefore provides a basketball hoop and net assembly having (i) a hoop or ring and a wave shaped rail attached thereto which depends downwardly from the hoop or ring so as to form a plurality of valleys thereby to provide apertures between the hoop or ring and each valley; and (ii) a net assembly having a top cord and a multiplicity of upper net loops attached thereto characterized in that the top cord has a multiplicity of inner parts and a plurality of outer parts and each inner part extends through a pair of adjacent primary apertures and each outer part is located outwardly of a secondary aperture wherein each secondary aperture is located proximal to a respective primary aperture and each upper net loop extends around each outer part. |
| US08663035B2 |
Rocket toss
A ball launching apparatus for batting practice having a ramp allowing an operator to propel a baseball or softball along the ramp such that it becomes airborne and may be batted by a batter. A plurality of the ramps may be connected together in a staggered fashion or used individually. Each of the ramps has two grooves, one within the other to accommodate a baseball or softball respectively. |
| US08663033B2 |
Golf balls including multiple dimple types and/or multiple layers of different hardnesses
Golf balls may include a first pole, a second pole, and a seam located between the first and second poles. Dimples are formed on a surface of the ball in a pattern that includes a plurality of repeating sectors around each pole of the ball. The sectors on one ball half are rotationally offset across the seam line from the sectors on the other ball half. Additionally, each individual sector includes a line of symmetry over which the dimple pattern on one half of the sector is mirrored on the other half. A variety of different dimple types also may be arranged on a golf ball surface, e.g., within the sectors described above. Additional aspects of this invention relate to the features of various layers of a multi-piece golf ball and to methods of making golf balls having at least some of the features mentioned above. |
| US08663029B2 |
Golf club
A golf club head includes a body defining an interior cavity. The body includes a sole positioned at a bottom portion of the golf club head, a crown positioned at a top portion, and a skirt positioned around a periphery between the sole and crown. The body has a forward portion and a rearward portion. The club head includes a face positioned at the forward portion of the body. The face defines a striking surface having an ideal impact location at a golf club head origin. Some embodiments of the club head form a club head for a fairway wood that has a high moment of inertia, a low center-of-gravity and a thin crown. |
| US08663027B2 |
Golf club face plates with internal cell lattices and related methods
Embodiments of golf club face plates with internal cell lattices are presented herein. Other examples and related methods are also disclosed herein. |
| US08663025B2 |
Golf ball with indicia for alignment
A golf ball has indicia adapted to allow a user to align the indicia with at least one of an intended direction of travel of the ball and a club head of a club the user will use to strike the ball. The indicia can be three parallel circles extending around the golf ball. A golf club can be provided with a marking on the club head adapted to align with the indicia on the golf ball. |
| US08663024B2 |
Golf setup and swing training aid
A golf swing training device for achieving a proper overall address position and for executing a proper golf swing, including setting the proper deviation of the wrists, setting the angular orientation between the shaft longitudinal axis and spine longitudinal axis as viewed from the side of the golfer, and for maintaining this deviation and angular orientation during the first part of the backswing. Held in fixed relation to the grip of the club is a member connected to a second flexible member that contacts the underside of the leading forearm when the golfer achieves a predetermined deviation of the wrist in the address position and during the first part of the backswing. |
| US08663020B2 |
Shaft
A shaft, including an outer peripheral surface; an inner peripheral surface; an oil flow passage that is formed in the shaft and is defined by the inner peripheral surface; a large inner-diameter portion having a first inner diameter; a small inner-diameter portion adjoining the large inner-diameter portion in one direction along an axial direction of the shaft, and having a second inner diameter smaller than the first inner diameter; and a through hole extending from an inner peripheral surface of the large inner-diameter portion to the outer peripheral surface of the shaft. The small inner-diameter portion is formed by bending radially inward an extending portion, which extends in the one direction from the large inner-diameter portion. |
| US08663018B2 |
Data locker synchronization
Disclosed are various embodiments enabling a saved state of an application to be stored at a central location and to be retrieved by multiple computing devices executing the application. Accordingly, saved states of applications and interfaces are also enabled to follow a user from one personal computing device to the next. |
| US08663015B2 |
Remote management of a gaming machine through error notification and execution of a repair application
Systems, apparatus and methods for remote management of a gaming machine are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a host platform having a host processor controlled by a host operating system. The host platform has a host storage and a host power state, wherein the host processor is to execute instructions that includes a wagering game. The apparatus also includes a subsystem that is operable independent of the host operating system and the host power state. The subsystem includes a processor that is separate from the host processor. The subsystem also includes a nonvolatile data store that is separate from the storage of the host platform. |
| US08663013B2 |
Systems and methods for simulating a rock band experience
Described are methods, systems, apparatuses, computer program products embodied in a computer-readable storage medium and means for providing online challenges between bands in a musical video game. Typically the invention is executed on a game server in signal communication with a game platform and involves receiving, by the game server, musical game input data representing a musical performance of a band. Then, the game server calculates a composite score from the input data based on a gameplay challenge. Then the composite score is compared to a composite score of a second band's performance for the same gameplay challenge. In some embodiments, the comparison is displayed as a real-time representation of the two bands, even though score of the second band is based on a stored performance of the second band. |
| US08663011B2 |
Game server for use in connection with a messenger server
A game and messenger client-server system is provided that includes a plurality of game clients, a game server, a plurality of messenger clients, and a messenger server. The game server includes logic to operate a multiplayer game using inputs from and outputs to an active game set of game clients, wherein game clients other than those in the active game set can join an active game by supplying the game server with a reference to the active game. Additionally, logic is included for coupling a game client to a messenger client to allow the game client to send the messenger client data used to initiate joining a game, whereby a message sent by the messenger client includes the data used to initiate joining a game. Also, logic is included for initiating a join of a game at an invitee client, using data received in a message to the invitee. |
| US08663009B1 |
Rotatable gaming display interfaces and gaming terminals with a rotatable display interface
Gaming devices, gaming systems, and gaming display assemblies are presented herein. A gaming machine for playing a wagering game is disclosed. The gaming machine includes a support structure and an input device configured to receive an input indicative of a wager to play the wagering game. A primary display device is mounted to the support structure and configured to display randomly determined outcomes of the wagering game. A display interface device, which overlies at least a portion of the primary display device, includes a player-rotatable display interface rotatably mounted to the support structure and configured to be manually rotated by a player. The display interface device is operatively connected to the primary display device such that motion manually imparted to the player-rotatable display interface by a player affects one or more aspects of the wagering game displayed on the primary display device. |
| US08663008B2 |
Game apparatus, game program and recording medium recording the program
A plurality of regions are set for a target, and target information for specifying information relating to a second movable object, which is set to be moveable toward a first movable object for each region, is stored. The game controller judges, in response to the operation of the operator, in which region the first movable object, at an arrival position, which has started movement from the reference position, is located, refers to the target information, and arranges the second movable object in a virtual space based on the information relating to the second movable object corresponding to the region in which the first movable object is located. |
| US08663005B2 |
Dynamic skinning of wagering games
An editing tool generates a progressive game skin and code for instantiating the progressive game skin. The progressive skin indicates various perceivable elements (e.g., visual elements, aural elements, etc.) and skin configurations (e.g., layout for perceivable elements, timing for presenting perceivable elements, properties of perceivable elements, etc.). The progressive skin may also indicate target presentation devices for presenting the perceivable elements indicated by the progressive skin. The progressive skin editing tool provides the progressive skin to a device that controls one or more devices that will present the perceivable element indicated by the progressive skin. The controlling device (“media controller”) reads the progressive skin and causes the one or more devices to present the indicated perceivable elements as indicated by the progressive skin (“instantiates the progressive skin”). |
| US08663000B2 |
Slot machine game and system with improved jackpot feature
Certain embodiments provide a method and system for awarding a progressive prize. The system includes a bank of gaming machines accepting different bets per play as selected by a player. A random number is selected from a predetermined fixed range of numbers that does not change during play of a gaming machine. The player is allotted one or more numbers for each credit bet. The allotted numbers represent a subset of the predetermined fixed range of numbers. A feature game is triggered for the progressive prize based on a numerical comparison between the selected random number and the number(s) allotted to the player. Certain embodiments provide a trigger condition for a feature outcome based on an event having a probability related to credits bet per game at a gaming machine. A probability of success in the feature game may be higher than a probability of success in the base game. |
| US08662999B2 |
Gaming system and a method of gaming
A method of gaming comprising: determining at least one game outcome; determining a total award from the at least one game outcome; modifying the total award based on a size of the total award to obtain a modified total award; and awarding the modified total award. |
| US08662997B1 |
Systems and methods for in-game provisioning of content
In certain embodiments, computer systems and methods are provided that allow a game distribution platform to distribute, update and/or control copies of games published across multiple game portals. In some embodiments, copies of the games are maintained in data storage on the game distribution platform and distributed to game portals and/or gaming devices. Additional content for purchase may also be stored on the data storage and available for purchase during a gaming session. Advantageously, in certain embodiments the game distribution platform enables game portals and/or gaming devices to receive the latest version of a game and/or a player's purchased content when a player selects to play the game. |
| US08662994B2 |
Method, apparatus, and program product for distributing random number generation on a gaming network
Methods, apparatus, and program products are disclosed for providing distributed RNG calculation capability. Generally, gaming machines cooperate on a gaming network to calculate a result for a RNG algorithm. A preferred system uses peer machines to perform partial RNG calculations, but cooperating server machines may also be used. One method calculates a first partial RNG calculation at a first machine using a seed value. The first machine transmits results of the first partial calculation to a second machine, which completes the RNG calculation. Some algorithms may include a step of combining partial results from two or more gaming machines. A preferred system uses a RNG state tracker and a seed tracker operating on a RNG master machine. This machine initializes a partial RNG with a seed value, and then tracks the state of the partial RNG using results from the completed calculation obtained over the network. |
| US08662987B2 |
Gaming system and a method of gaming
The present invention relates to a gaming system and to a method of gaming that includes a wheel game. A base game, implemented as a reel game, is arranged to generate as one of its outcomes a feature game in the form of a wheel game. The wheel game has a plurality of outcome indicating parts for indicating outcomes of the wheel game. A plurality of outcomes of the wheel game each resulting in play of a different further feature game. This provides a further level of gaming, in order to maintain player interest. |
| US08662984B2 |
Gaming machine and gaming machine reel assembly
A reel assembly includes a mounting bracket including a substantially planar mounting bracket body. A reel motor is connected to a first lateral side of the mounting bracket and a reel superstructure is connected to be driven by the reel motor about a rotational axis extending substantially perpendicular to the plane of the mounting bracket body. A mounting flange is located at a top edge of the mounting bracket. This mounting flange includes a substantially planar surface lying in a plane extending transversely to the plane of the mounting bracket body, preferably forming a “T” shape with the planar mounting bracket body as viewed in transverse section. A stabilizing structure is located at a rear edge of the mounting bracket in a spaced apart relationship with the mounting flange, and a locking structure is located at an intersection of the top edge of the mounting bracket and the front edge of the mounting bracket. |
| US08662983B2 |
Electronic game and system having overlayed video images
An electronic game system (100, FIG. 1) displays game element images (246, FIG. 2) within multiple game element areas (240). If a triggering event occurs (312, FIG. 3), a set of video images (402, FIG. 4) is overlayed over one or more of the game element images. Portions of the game element images may be visible during at least a portion of the duration of the set of video images. Various game element images (504, FIG. 5) can be replaced with altered images (608, FIG. 6) and/or other game element images (702, FIG. 7) while the set of video images is being displayed, thus causing the appearance that the set of video images is interacting with the game elements. Embodiments are incorporated into a wagering game system, such as an electronic slot machine game. |
| US08662982B1 |
Method and apparatus for attractive bonusing
A method for a game includes providing a plurality of individual gaming machines for playing a base game, where an outcome of each gaming machine is determined at least in part by chance, and communicatively coupling a progressive bonus apparatus to said plurality of individual gaming machines. The method includes creating value elements and inserting them onto individual gaming machines in a bank of gaming machines. The value elements can be seen visually by players so that the players can monitor the status of the bonus game while playing the base game. Also disclosed is an apparatus capable of carrying out the above method as well as a media carrying an instruction set for carrying out the above method. |
| US08662977B1 |
Multiple plays for free games
The invention comprises a method for multiple plays for free games. Some games of chance, or of skill, or of mixed skill and chance are only or can only be proposed for free to players. Enabling players to play many more times for free associated with a paid-for service of generation of multiple free plays is the main purpose of the invention. It comprises, namely, an embodiment for a free lottery and an embodiment for a financial forecasting game. It comprises an additional description, for a financial game, of automatic or semi-automatic generation of forecasts. |
| US08662975B1 |
Multiplayer game using multiplayer characters
System and methods are provided for implementing game play in a video game. A plurality of characters are provided, and a character may be captured and controlled by a user for gameplay such as fighting, crafting, and the like. The capture and control is for a limited time, such as a predetermined time that is generally short compared to the overall game duration. After the predetermined time, the character is released and the user free to grab another character. |
| US08662973B1 |
Method and apparatus for tracking movement of a ball
A data collection and analysis system tracks motion of ball for analysis of a competitor's performance in a sport, such as golf or baseball. The data collection and analysis system comprises a ball equipped with a positioning receiver and a transmitter to acquire and transmit position data, and a handheld unit to receive and process the position data. |
| US08662971B2 |
Door insert for balancing air pressure
The door insert of the present invention balances air pressure in a closed environment. It includes a frame that defines a slot. A pair of tabs emanates from opposing sides of the frame to attach the frame to a door. Media, which has a plurality of apertures therethrough, resides in the slot. The frame, with media installed therein resides within a notch in an edge of a door. Air is permitted to flow through the door insert to balance the air pressure within an environment divided by the door. The frame is preferably ABS plastic and the media is preferably paper. The appearance of the frame and media may be modified to aesthetically match the decor of the door, door hardware and surrounding environment. |
| US08662964B2 |
Protective hood for portable electric power tools, and portable electric power tools
A protective hood of portable electric power tools, and a portable electric power tool is described, and wherein a protective hood is provided and which can be selectively located relative to a rotating drive shaft, and wherein a clamping band is provided which mounts a screw that can be radially threadably advanced toward the rotating drive shaft and which further carries an anti-rotation locking element having claws which mechanically engage a machine neck thereby reliably and securely fastening the protective hood to the power tool. |
| US08662962B2 |
Sandpaper with non-slip coating layer and method of using
A sheet of sandpaper includes a backing layer having opposed first and second major surfaces, an adhesive make coat on the first major surface, abrasive particles at least partially embedded in the make coat, thereby defining an abrasive surface, and a non-slip coating layer on the second major surface. Methods of making and using such sandpaper are also provided. |
| US08662959B2 |
Cutting method and cutting device for hard material
A method of cutting a workpiece made of a highly-hard material is provided. The workpiece is cut by a machining device including a workpiece holder that holds the workpiece, a spindle device that rotates the workpiece holder, a tool holder that holds a tool, and a relative moving mechanism that relatively moves the workpiece holder and the tool holder at least in two axial directions orthogonal to each other. In the machining device, positioning errors in the axial directions are within 5 nm. |
| US08662952B2 |
Fabric diving stick
A diving stick of the type that, after being tossed into a swimming pool, sinks to the bottom while maintaining an upright posture so that it be can easily grasped by a diver. The stick includes a soft hollow shank designed to prevent accidental impalement. |
| US08662945B2 |
Outboard drive device
The present invention relates to an outboard drive device (10) comprising an outboard motor (11) having a crankshaft (16), wherein said outboard drive device (10) further comprises a propeller which propeller is below the hull (13) of a boat when said outboard drive device (10) is operated, and a power coupling system for transferring power from the motor (11) to the propeller. The power coupling system comprises a power transfer device (17) for transferring output power from the crankshaft (16) to a transmission drive shaft (19) of a transmission (18), and a power transfer means (20) for transferring output power from the transmission (18) to a drive shaft (21) of an endless loop flexible drive coupling (22) operatively connecting said transmission (18) to a propeller shaft (12) for driving said propeller, wherein the crankshaft (16) is substantially horizontal and substantially parallel to the propeller shaft (12) when said outboard drive device (10) is operated. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing said outboard drive device (10). |
| US08662933B2 |
Cable connector assembly with improved contacts and spacer with a gateway
A cable connector assembly (100) comprises an insulative housing (1), a plurality of contacts (2), a metallic shell (3) enclosing the insulative housing and a spacer (5). The insulative housing includes a first tongue (121) and a second tongue (122). The contacts comprise a plurality of first contacts held in the first tongue and a plurality of second contacts held in the second tongue. At least one of the contacts comprises a main body (2110) located in a vertical plane, a soldering portion (2112) in a horizontal plane and a connecting portion (2114), the spacer has a gateway (5120) recessed backwards, and a rear segment of the main body is inserted into the gateway. |
| US08662931B2 |
Delayed contact action connector
A method for using a connector with terminals for connecting to a circuit card. The connector includes a socket having a casing with an aperture for receiving the circuit card therein and electrically conductive terminals. The terminals include an elongated portion and a substantially L-shaped portion joined together by a U-shaped portion. The elongated portion has a proximal end and a distal end, and includes a support section and a bending section between the proximal end and the distal end. The U-shaped portion is disposed at the distal end of the elongated portion. The terminal continues from the U-shaped portion to approximately halfway towards the proximal end of the elongated portion and turns away from the elongated portion thereby forming the substantially L-shaped portion. The L-shaped portion ends in a lip section curving towards the proximal end of the elongated portion. |
| US08662928B1 |
Receptacle connector
A receptacle connector adapted for engaging with a plug connector includes an inner insulating housing, a plurality of terminals integrally molded to the inner insulating housing, a shielding shell, a waterproof plate and an outer insulating housing. The shielding shell is looped from a first metal plate with an inserting space being formed therein. The inner insulating housing together with the terminals is inserted into the inserting space. The shielding shell defines two buckling holes. The waterproof plate is made of a second metal plate thinner than the first metal plate in thickness, and is fastened on the shielding shell. Two opposite sides of the waterproof plate are punched upward to form two receiving hats corresponding to the two buckling holes. The outer insulating housing is integrally molded around the shielding shell, the waterproof plate and the inner insulating housing with soldering portions of the terminals projected outside. |
| US08662922B2 |
Power connector
A power connector adapted for electrically connecting with a cable includes an insulative housing defining a number of passageways extending therethrough and a number of contacts received in corresponding passageways. A latching arm is formed in each passageway. Each contact has a base section, a contact section extending from the base section, a retention section extending oppositely from the base section, and a side section extending perpendicularly from edges of the base section. The base section of the contact defines a latching hole receiving the latching aim of the insulative housing to thereby secure the contact in the housing. |
| US08662921B2 |
Dummy plug
A dummy plug (50) includes a sealing portion (51) to be fit into a seal hole (21) in a liquid-tight manner when the dummy plug (50) is mounted into a connector (A). A support (53) is arranged behind the sealing portion (51). Two resilient locking pieces (56) link the rear end of the sealing portion (51) and the front end of the support (53) and engage with retaining portions (34) of a holder (30) when the dummy plug (50) is mounted into the connector (A). A single deformation space (57) is provided between the resilient locking pieces (56) and is shared to permit resilient deformations of the resilient locking pieces (56). |
| US08662919B2 |
Electronic device with port shield
An electronic device includes a housing, a circuit board accommodated in the housing, a number of I/O ports mounted on the circuit board, and a port shield secured to the housing. The housing defines a number of openings, and the I/O ports are exposed from the plurality of openings. The port shield defines a number of receiving spaces to receive and position the I/O ports, thereby preventing the plurality of I/O ports from becoming loose and detaching from the circuit board. |
| US08662915B2 |
Connector
A connector for connecting an FFC to a substrate includes a plurality of signal contacts, a ground contact, and a housing. The signal contacts are arranged to come into contact with signal terminals of the FFC. The ground contact comes into contact with the ground terminal of the FFC. The housing holds the plurality of signal contacts and the ground contact. A first distance from an end of the housing to a contact point of each signal contact with each signal terminal is set to be substantially equal to a second distance from an end of the housing to a contact point of the ground contact with the ground terminal. The first and second distances are measured along a direction in which one of the FFC and the FPC is inserted into or removed from the connector. |
| US08662911B2 |
Coaxial connectors including conductive anti-friction bearing mechanisms and/or locking mechanisms and related methods
Coaxial connectors are provided that include a body assembly, an internally-threaded nut, and a conductive anti-friction bearing mechanism disposed between the body assembly and the nut. In some embodiments, the conductive anti-friction bearing mechanism may comprise a plurality of ball bearings that are configured to maintain an electrical connection between the body assembly and the internally-threaded nut. |
| US08662908B2 |
Card connector
A card connector includes a housing including an insertion part into which a card is to be inserted; and a switch mechanism including a movable terminal and multiple fixed terminals. The movable terminal is configured to deform elastically in response to being pressed by the card upon the insertion of the card into the insertion part. The fixed terminals are provided in a direction in which the movable terminal is displaced by the elastic deformation. The movable terminal is configured to be in contact with or out of contact with at least one of the fixed terminals based on the amount of displacement of the movable terminal according to the presence or absence of the card in the insertion part and the shape of the card. |
| US08662905B2 |
Card reader and electronic device having movable card insertion mechanism
A card reader is disposed in a case body of an electronic device for connecting an electronic card. The card reader includes an electrical connection socket, at least one guiding member, at least one guiding rail and a cover. The electrical connection socket is disposed in the case body for inserting an electrical connector of the electronic card thereinto. The guiding member is disposed in the case body and provides a guiding slot extending along a guiding direction. The guiding direction is parallel to a direction in which the electrical connector is inserted into the electrical connection socket. The guiding rail includes a sliding portion sliding in the guiding slot and a lower support portion extending from the sliding portion for guiding the electronic card to pass through the insertion hole of the case body. The cover is pivoted to the guiding rail and for closing the insertion hole. |
| US08662904B2 |
Electrical power connector having a housing with stepped stop portions, partition plates and hooks for engaging openings in the terminals
An electrical power connector includes an electrically insulative housing defining multiple front mating portions, multiple rear partition plates, an accommodation chamber between each two adjacent partition plates corresponding to one respective mating portion, a mating chamber in each mating portion, stepped stop portions in top and bottom sides in each mating chamber and springy hooks suspending in top and bottom sides in each accommodation chamber, and pairs of conducting terminals mounted in the accommodation chambers and having respective front mating end portions suspending in the mating chambers with respective openings and stop rods thereof respectively forced into engagement with the springy hooks and stepped stop portions of the electrically insulative housing. |
| US08662900B2 |
Dental implant surgical training simulation system
A bone implant surgery system is used for simulating a dental surgical procedure having a display that shows placing a simulated bone implant at a simulated implant site on a living body by using a simulated surgical tool holding the simulated bone implant. At least one hand-held haptic device is used to control the surgical tool and at least one controller is specifically configured to cause movement of the surgical tool on the display based on motions of the haptic device and to cause haptic feedback to a user holding the haptic device depending on the position of the surgical tool on the display. A user may then review and evaluate the results of the surgical simulation. |
| US08662899B1 |
Cooperative training device
The cooperative training device is used for teaching cooperation, teamwork and communication for a group of participants. The training device is an annular, flexible mat having radially extending pairs of foot straps spaced apart on the upper surface of the mat and a corresponding tether extending from the outer foot strap of each pair. Teams of participants are trained to cooperate by instructing the team to move the mat from one location to another while standing in the foot straps and grasping the tether. The mat may have true and false directional indicia marked thereon, may be divided into quadrants, and may have designated penalty areas where non-cooperating team members are directed to go and remain stationary. |
| US08662897B2 |
Trainee incentive and reward method
The invention is a method and system that provides for efficiently incentivising and rewarding employees for their successful use of a training system or other employer defined metrics by utilizing Smartcard® cards and You Did It Right® cards. Successful demonstration of training and performance metrics is rewarded through such rewards as gift cards or discount coupons redeemable for goods and/or services at retail/service centers. |
| US08662896B2 |
Set of athletic balls for learning through game play
The present disclosure provides methods for making and sets of athletic balls for use in learning through game play. One or more embodiments include marking each of a number of tennis balls with a different letter symbol of an alphabetical set belonging to a language used in the game play, wherein all the letter symbols of the alphabetical set are used in marking the number of tennis balls; and marking each of the number of tennis balls with a different numerical symbol, the numerical symbol corresponding to a numerical position of the letter symbol in the alphabetical set of the language used in the game play. |
| US08662893B2 |
Thermochromatic inks, printing methods and kits
The present invention relates to thermochromatic inks. The present invention provides a toy, wherein the toy includes at least one thermochromatic ink. The present invention provides a pre-printed item, wherein when the temperature of the pre-printed item is changed to particular temperatures, the color of a marking, the color of a drawing, or both, change. The present invention provides an interactive item, wherein the visual appearance of the item is changed by changing the color of at least one of a first or second inks. The present invention provides a drawing device, wherein the position of a substrate and a temperature element are such that a thermochromatic ink does not change color unless sufficient pressure is applied to the substrate effective to deflect the surface of the substrate and bring it temporarily sufficiently more proximate to the temperature element. The present invention provides a smart wand for drawing on a substrate that includes thermochromatic ink. The present invention provides a backlight system. The present invention provides a light box. |
| US08662889B2 |
Arch bars for use in maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics
A dental arch bar system includes upper and lower dental arch bars having movable transverse arms and ligature connectors. Fasteners secure the transverse arms to a subject's maxilla and mandible. Ligatures are secured around upper and lower ligature connectors to achieve intermaxillary fixation. A method is also disclosed for using the arch bar system to achieve intermaxillary fixation by securing the arch bars against opposing dental arches with ligature connectors of the upper and lower arch bar generally aligned. In some embodiments, a single dental arch bar is utilized and one or more ligature connectors (such as screws) are fixed directly in the bone of the opposite jaw. Ligatures then are secured to arch bar ligature connectors and the opposing ligature connectors. |
| US08662887B2 |
NOx suppression techniques for a rotary kiln
A NOx suppression apparatus is configured for use with a burner that injects fuel into a stream of process air flowing into and through a rotary kiln. The apparatus comprises a premix injection system that forms a premix of fuel gas and air, and injects the premix into the stream of process air upstream of the burner port. This enables premix products of combustion to suppress the production of NOx by vitiating a combustion air portion of the process air before the combustion air portion combusts with fuel injected from the burner port. |
| US08662883B2 |
Gas combustion apparatus
Apparatus is described for combusting exhaust gases output from a plurality of process chambers. The apparatus comprises a plurality of exhaust gas combustion nozzles (22) connected to a combustion chamber (24). Each nozzle receives a respective exhaust gas (26), and comprises means for receiving a fuel (40) and an oxidant (30) for use in forming a combustion flame within the chamber. A controller receives data indicative of the chemistry of the exhaust gas supplied to each nozzle, and adjusts the relative amounts of fuel and oxidant supplied to each nozzle in response to the received data. This can enable the nature of each combustion flame to be selectively modified according to the nature of the exhaust gases to be destroyed by that flame, thereby enhancing the destruction rate efficiency of the exhaust gas and optimising fuel consumption. |
| US08662882B2 |
Golf ball mold
The disclosure provides a golf ball mold that may produce a golf ball with a reduced gate defect. The golf ball mold may have a mold cavity having a mold chamber including a surface shaped as the inverse of a substantially hemispherical shape and a parting edge disposed along the perimeter of mold chamber. At least one gate may be disposed on the parting edge to provide a path for a cover material to be injected into the mold chamber. The gate may include a flat middle surface connected by a first side surface and a second side surface disposed opposite the first side surface. A round having a radius of curvature ranging from about 0.2 mm to about 0.5 mm may be disposed along a middle gate edge of middle surface and/or a side gate edge of one of the first side surface and the second side surface. |
| US08662879B2 |
Micro/nano imprint mold of the fabricating process
The invention discloses a mold performing in the micro/nano imprint fabricating process, wherein the mold is utilized to imprint a pattern on a substrate via a material layer. The mold comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, a pre-determined structure and an overflow controlling device. The upper surface and the lower surface are corresponded to each other. The pre-determined structure is disposed on the lower surface of the mold. The overflow controlling device is utilized to maintain the pressure among the material layer and the substrate. |
| US08662878B2 |
Methods and materials for fabricating laminate nanomolds and nanoparticles therefrom
A laminate nanomold includes a layer of perfluoropolyether defining a cavity that has a predetermined shape and a support layer coupled with the layer of perfluoropolyether. The laminate can also include a tie-layer coupling the layer of perfluoropolyether with the support layer. The tie-layer can also include a photocurable component and a thermal curable component. The cavity can have a broadest dimension of less than 500 nanometers. |
| US08662875B2 |
Injection molding apparatus for shoe or sole using thermoplastic resin and thereby shoes
Disclosed herein are an injection foam molding apparatus for manufacturing one-piece shoes or soles and one-piece shoes manufactured using the same. A thermoplastic resin is injected into top and bottom molds in a state in which the top and bottom molds are coupled with a middle mold and is then pressed to form the upper and lower parts of a shoe, the middle mold is separated therefrom, and then the top mold and bottom mold, including the upper part and lower part of the shoe, respectively, are pressed, thereby forming the upper part and lower part of the shoe into one body. The injection foam molding apparatus is advantageous in that, since functional one-piece shoes or soles, having various colors, hardnesses and specific gravities, and having excellent feeling and durability, can be manufactured using different materials by one apparatus, working time is decreased, and productivity can be increased. |
| US08662873B2 |
Ramped stiffener and apparatus and method for forming the same
A die tool for forming a C-section component having radiused shoulders, the includes a cylindrical inner die and an outer die having a cylindrical central portion connected to opposing end flanges by respective radiused concave portions. A portion of the inner die is arranged to be disposed between the end flanges of the outer die and spaced apart therefrom to define a cavity corresponding to the desired cross-section of the C-section component to be formed. The radiused convex and concave portions have a radius of curvature that varies about the circumference of the respective inner and outer dies. The inner and outer dies are rotatable such that the radius of curvature of the radiused convex and concave portions where the inner and outer dies are adjacent to one another varies as the inner and outer dies are rotated. |
| US08662871B2 |
Tire vulcanizing device
A tire vulcanizing device including: an upper annular mold attaching member and a lower annular mold attaching member that respectively attach side portion forming molds for forming side portions of a tire; a plurality of segments that respectively attach a plurality of segmented tread molds for forming a tread portion of the tire; and a mold closing mechanism for radially moving the segments to close the tread molds at an advanced end. The respective segments are respectively independently provided with heat medium passages for applying heat for vulcanization to the tread molds when supplied with a heat medium. |
| US08662869B2 |
Multi-stage dry pump
A multi-stage dry pump includes: a plurality of pump chambers each including a cylinder and a rotor housed in the cylinder; a first rotor shaft that is a rotation shaft of the rotors; a fixed bearing that rotatably supports the first rotor shaft and restricts a movement thereof along an axis direction of the first rotor shaft; and a free bearing that rotatably supports the first rotor shaft and permits a movement thereof along the axis direction of the first rotor shaft; wherein: the plurality of pump chambers is disposed between the fixed bearing and the free bearing; and a first pump chamber of the plurality of pump chambers which has a lower pressure and on the aspiration side is placed in proximity to the fixed bearing. |
| US08662864B2 |
Offset valve bore in a reciprocating pump
A fluid end (15) for a multiple reciprocating pump assembly (12) comprises at least three plunger bores (61 or 91) each for receiving a reciprocating plunger (35), each plunger bore having a plunger bore axis (65 or 95). Plunger bores being arranged across the fluid head to define a central plunger bore and lateral plunger bores located on either side of the central plunger bore. Fluid end (15) has suction valve bores (59 or 89), each suction valve bore receiving a suction valve (41) and having a suction valve bore axis (63 or 93). Discharge valve bores (57 or 87), each discharge valve bore receiving a discharge valve (43) and having a discharge valve bore axis (63 or 93). The axes of at least one of suction and discharge valve bores is inwardly offset in the fluid end from its respective plunger bore axis. |
| US08662862B2 |
Pump system with vacuum source
A self priming pump system that includes a motor coupled to a centrifugal pump for driving the centrifugal pump. A separator having a reservoir is provided for storing a limited amount of pumped fluid in advance of the centrifugal pump. A vacuum source provides a vacuum suction to the reservoir to draw pumped fluid into the reservoir to prime the pump. To increase the reliability of the vacuum pump system, a deflector and/or extension may be provided in the reservoir to help prevent pumped fluid from entering the vacuum pump input. Also, the configuration of a tank used to store liquid for the vacuum pump system may be configured to separate and collect sediments near a drain port, which then can be easily drained. For positive head pressures, one or more valves may be used to prevent pumped fluid from escaping the reservoir, if desired. |
| US08662859B2 |
System and method for monitoring operation of a pump
Systems and methods for monitoring operation of a pump, including verifying operation or actions of a pump, are disclosed. A baseline profile for one or more parameters of a pump may be established. An operating profile may then be created by recording one or more values for the same set of parameters during subsequent operation of the pump. The values of the baseline profile and the operating profile may then be compared at one or more points or sets of points. If the operating profile differs from the baseline profile by more than a certain tolerance an alarm may be sent or another action taken, for example the pumping system may shut down, etc. |
| US08662858B2 |
Generating a PWM signal dependent on a duty cycle having a piecewise linear relationship with temperature
A system may include a PWM generator and control logic. The PWM generator is configured to generate a PWM signal having a duty cycle dependent on a duty cycle value generated by the control logic. The control logic is configured to generate the duty cycle value to have a piecewise linear relationship with temperature such that at least two of a plurality of linear segments defined by the piecewise linear relationship have different slopes. In some embodiments, the piecewise linear relationship may be continuous. |
| US08662853B2 |
Wind turbine blade and method of constructing same
A wind turbine blade including a number of segments attached together end-to-end in a predetermined arrangement so that the respective covering subassemblies of the segments cooperate to form a substantially smooth surface of the wind turbine blade. Each segment includes a number of fiber tubes extending along preselected lengths of the segment respectively, the fiber tubes being laterally spaced apart from each other respectively to define gaps therebetween. The segment also includes a covering subassembly at least partially supported by the fiber tubes and at least partially defining an internal cavity. |
| US08662848B2 |
Water impeller
The invention is a magnetically driven pump with a floating impeller and driven magnet, and the invention includes an impeller surface having geometric figures acting as the pumping bodies. |
| US08662846B2 |
Bidirectional fan having self-adjusting vane
A bidirectional centrifugal fan having a self-adjusting vane. In one embodiment, the fan includes a driving disc having a pivot pin extending therefrom; a vane pivotably attached to the pivot pin, the vane including an aperture extending at least partially therethrough; and a trailing disc including a guide arm for receiving the aperture of the vane. |
| US08662845B2 |
Multi-function heat shield for a gas turbine engine
A rotor disk assembly for a gas turbine engine includes a rotor disk with a circumferentially intermittent slot structure that extends radially outward relative to an axis of rotation. A heat shield has a multiple of radial tabs engageable with the circumferentially intermittent slot structure to provide axial retention of the cover plate to the rotor disk. |
| US08662843B2 |
Adaptive twist system for a rotor blade
The system of the present application includes an adaptive twist system for a rotor blade. The adaptive twist system includes a slider mechanism coupled to a spar and to a skin. The slider mechanism provides structural connectivity between the spar and the skin while also selectively translated the skin relative to the spar, thereby causing the rotor blade to twist. A control system is used to operate the slider mechanism so that the rotor blade is automatically twisted into the optional shape during changes in flight modes. |
| US08662839B2 |
Aircraft engine nacelle air intake assembly
This aircraft engine nacelle air intake assembly comprises an air intake structure comprising an air intake lip (7) and an acoustic shroud (5) extending downstream of this air intake lip (7) and designed to be mounted on a fixed structure (2), the said air intake structure being designed to be able to move with respect to the said fixed structure (2) between an operating position in which the said lip (7) is in contact with the said shroud (5), and a maintenance position in which the said lip (7) is set apart in the upstream direction away from the said shroud (5). This assembly is notable in that it comprises runway means (19) designed to centre this lip (7) with respect to this shroud (5). |
| US08662838B2 |
Compressor housing resistant to titanium fire, high-pressure compressor including such a housing and aircraft engine fitted with such a compressor
A compressor housing resistant to a titanium fire (burning titanium). A mixed housing is constructed, in which a structure holding stator blades includes a single-cast part made from titanium or titanium alloy, and at least one element forming a shield made from refractory alloy(s), and which is incombustible in presence of burning titanium, where each shield is secured to the single-cast part by fasteners. The fasteners are positioned with each shield so as to define jointly an inner wall demarcating an outer contour of the compressor airstream. |
| US08662837B2 |
HP turbine vane airfoil profile
A two-stage high pressure turbine includes a second stage vane having an airfoil with a profile substantially in accordance with at least an intermediate portion of the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 2. The X and Y values are distances, which when smoothly connected by an appropriate continuing curve, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z. The profile sections at each distance Z are joined smoothly to one another to form a complete airfoil shape. |
| US08662835B2 |
Nozzle for a turbomachine turbine
A turbine nozzle for a turbomachine, including inner and outer annular platforms connected together by vanes, the inner platform carrying annular elements of abradable material co-operating with annular wipers of a rotor of the turbomachine to form a labyrinth seal, these elements of abradable material being carried by annular sheet-metal sectors of substantially L-, S-, or C-shaped section that are fastened by brazing or welding at their outer peripheries to the inner platform and at their inner peripheries to the elements of abradable material. |
| US08662832B2 |
Active air flow adjustable fan
A fan includes at least one fan frame, at least one impeller and at least one active flow-control device. The fan frame includes at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The impeller is disposed in the fan frame. The active flow-control device is disposed on the fan frame for adjusting the size of the air inlet or the size of the air outlet according to demands. |
| US08662831B2 |
Diaphragm shell structures for turbine engines
A shell structure for a turbine engine that includes a plurality of diaphragms, wherein each diaphragm comprises: an annularly formed support structure that positions and secures a row of circumferentially spaced stator blades, and wherein the plurality of diaphragms are configured and axially stacked such that each diaphragm abuts the diaphragm that is positioned directly upstream from it and the diaphragm that is positioned directly downstream from it such that a first shell structure is formed; a second shell structure disposed outboard of the first shell structure; and an intermediate chamber defined between an outboard face of the first shell structure and an inboard face of the second shell structure; wherein: a downstream end and an upstream end of the first shell structure define the axial length of the first shell structure; one or more downstream radial ports are defined at the approximate axial position of the downstream end of the first shell structure, each downstream radial port fluidly connecting the intermediate chamber to the main flow path of the turbine engine; and between the axial position of the downstream axial ports and the axial position of the upstream end of the first shell structure, the first shell structure is configured such that the intermediate chamber is substantially sealed from the main flow path. |
| US08662828B2 |
High pressure turbine of a turbomachine with improved assembly of the mobile blade radial clearance control box
A high pressure turbine of a turbomachine such as a turbojet, in which a control box of radial clearances of rotating blades are provided. An annular element including a determined flexibility has one end fixed to an annular support and the other end supported by a simple axial bearing with a given pressure on the upstream side of the control box. Thus, disturbing vibration loads are prevented at the attachment points of the control box with the external casing of turbines, thereby also eliminating the risk of cracks occurring. |
| US08662826B2 |
Cooling circuit for a drum rotor
A cooling circuit for a drum rotor of a multi-stage steam turbine including tangential female dovetail slots in the drum rotor for tangential entry dovetailed buckets. Axial female dovetail slots are cut into drum rotor projections between stages of the tangential entry buckets for mounting axial inserts. The axial inserts may include axial and radial cooling passages allowing cooler external steam to cool the drum rotor flow through tangential cooling spaces between the tangential female dovetail slots and the tangential entry dovetailed buckets. |
| US08662824B2 |
Rotor containment structure for gas turbine engine
A rotor containment structure for gas turbine engine comprises an inner containment layer having a single integral body defining an annular structure about the rotor, and having a support on the inner surface of the inner containment layer for at least one shroud segment. An outer containment layer provides containment strength to contain blade fragments and defining an annular structure about the inner containment layer. Air passage through the outer containment layer for air to pass from an exterior of the outer containment layer to an interior of the outer containment layer; and the inner containment layer being connected at a first end to the outer containment layer with a gap defined between the inner surface of the outer containment layer and the outer surface of the inner containment layer, the gap being in fluid communication with the air passage such that air flows through the gap, beyond a free second end of the inner containment layer. |
| US08662823B2 |
Flow path for steam turbine outer casing and flow barrier apparatus
A steam turbine may include a turbine section including a rotor. An inner casing is provided about the turbine, the inner casing including an upstream end, a downstream end and an inner casing exhaust port positioned at the downstream end allowing exhaust steam to exit the inner casing. An outer casing is provided about the inner casing, the outer casing including an upstream end, a downstream end and an outer casing exhaust port positioned at the upstream end of the outer casing. A flow path extends between the inner casing and the outer casing through which the exhaust steam passes in an upstream direction from the inner casing exhaust port to the outer casing exhaust port. A flow barrier may be provided in the flow path between the inner casing and the outer casing. |
| US08662821B2 |
Removable steam inlet assembly for steam turbine
A removable steam inlet assembly and lifting fixture for a steam turbine are provided to facilitate lifting of the upper exhaust hood of the steam turbine. The removable steam inlet assembly is detached from the steam inlet of the turbine inner casing for the lift and mounted to the upper exhaust hood with a lifting fixture. Detaching and removal of the steam inlet assembly substantially lowers the clearance height for the lift, allowing lower turbine building height with significant cost savings. |
| US08662820B2 |
Method for shutting down a turbomachine
A method for increasing the operational flexibility of a turbomachine during a shutdown phase is provided. The turbomachine may include a first section, a second section, and a rotor disposed within the first section and the second section. The method may determine an allowable range of a physical parameter associated with the first section and/or the second section. The method may modulate a first valve and/or a second valve to allow steam flow into the first section and the second section respectively, wherein the modulation is based on the allowable range of the physical parameter. In addition, the physical parameter allows the method to independently apportion steam flow between the first section and the second section of the turbomachine, during the shutdown phase. |
| US08662817B2 |
Coupler with safety cam
A coupler for a backhoe or other excavator includes a frame including an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion is adapted to be secured to an associated backhoe or excavator arm. The lower portion includes a first hook adapted to mate releasably with a first associated attachment pin and includes a second hook adapted to mate releasably with a second associated attachment pin. First and second safety locks are movably connected to the frame and move relative to the first hook between an engaged position for capturing the first associated attachment pin in the first hook and a disengaged position for releasing the first associated attachment pin from the first hook. An actuator is adapted to move the safety locks selectively between the engaged and disengaged positions. First and second safety cams are provided and comprise respective cam profiles that respectively: (i) block movement of the first and second safety locks from their engaged positions to their disengaged positions when the frame and first and second safety cams are arranged in a first angular orientation relative to each other; and, (ii) allow movement of the first and second safety locks from their engaged positions to their disengaged positions when the frame and first and second safety locks are arranged in a second angular orientation relative to each other. |
| US08662813B2 |
Loading apparatus for transport container
An apparatus (10) for loading a transport container with a load of bulk material has a load bin (20) positioned for axial movement atop a base assembly (40). A packer blade (90) is positioned inside the load bin for movement relative to the load bin in the same axial direction. The load bin has an open first end (22) and a second end (24), with a pair of vertical side walls (66) and a substantially open top surface. Drivers (60, 92) are provided for the axial movements. Material is loaded into the load bin, the openable end of the transport container is placed around the first end of the load bin, and the load bin is extended into the transport container until the packer blade is inside the transport container. By retracting the load bin while retaining the packer blade inside the container, the load is transferred. |
| US08662809B2 |
Particle board screw
The invention relates to a particle board screw having a conical screw tip with a thread. The thread extends from the screw shaft to the front end of the screw tip. In order to make it easier to screw in, and in order to reduce the splitting effect in wood, a shoulder or rib is disposed in the front region of the screw, which is to say on the end or inside of the tapering part, preferably extending around the entire circumference with no pitch. The rib has a front flank running almost transversely to the longitudinal axis of the screw and a more strongly inclined rear flank. The screw has a reduced screw-in torque. |
| US08662805B2 |
Torque-limited attachment device
One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to a torque-limited attachment device, having a first head piece with at least one shaped element for the purpose of establishing a positive-fit connection to an attachment tool, and having a second head piece which has at least one threading, wherein both head pieces are connected to each other, forming at least one predetermined breaking point which breaks at a limit torque between the two head pieces such that a first breakaway surface, the same being functionally assigned to the first head piece, and a second breakaway surface, the same being functionally assigned to the second head piece, are created, and wherein at least the second head piece has a base material inside, the same having a corrosion-resistant surface coating. |
| US08662800B2 |
Cutting head with coolant channel
A rotational tool includes a cutting head and a basic body. The cutting head includes a cutting portion including a chip flute and at least one of a cutting edge and an insert seat, where the chip flute is located before the at least one of the cutting edge and the insert seat in a rotational direction of the cutting head. A coupling portion is located axially rearward of the cutting portion relative to a cutting end of the cutting head, and is configured to couple to the basic body. A coolant slot extends axially and opens at an external radial surface of at least a portion of the cutting head. |
| US08662798B2 |
Tool for turn/turn broaching or external milling
A tool for the turn/turn broaching or external milling of a workpiece is disclosed. The tool comprises a disk-shaped broaching wheel or at least one segment of such a broaching wheel. In each case, at least one cutting-tip holding fixture in each case for receiving a cutting tip is provided on the end faces of the broaching wheel or segment laterally adjoining a circumferential surface. On at least one of the two end faces, a cutting-tip holding fixture is formed in a cartridge, which is axially adjustable with respect to the broaching wheel or segment by an axial clamping wedge. The cartridge is designed in such a way that it at least partially covers the axial clamping wedge in a direction towards the circumferential surface. |
| US08662797B2 |
Apparatus and process for vacuum conveying of powder products or the like
The present description relates to an apparatus and a process for vacuum-assisted pneumatic conveying of powder products, granules or the like. The apparatus comprises a container, a filtering unit (4) in the container and a rotary head with a nozzle (108) for washing the external wall of the filter unit (4). The apparatus provides a more immediate and efficient internal cleaning, allowing sterilization thus making the apparatus suitable for use also in the pharmaceutical sector. |
| US08662779B2 |
Spreadable fluid material dispenser apparatus
A dispenser for fluid material that facilitates spreading of the fluid material is disclosed. The dispenser can comprise a unitary construction, or can be composed of a plurality of components that can be fastened together. Disposable cartridges containing fluid material can be attached to the dispenser, and the material within can be dispensed on a surface. The dispenser provides metered dispensing. |
| US08662778B2 |
Floor finish application assembly and method
A floor finish application tool and method for applying floor finishes to a floor. Some embodiments are provided with disposable or quickly replaceable features, such as feed lines or reservoirs to eliminate the need for time consuming clean-up operations. Some embodiments are provided with a two portion hinged head having a spreading or distributing portion and a leveling portion to provide substantially uniform floor finish thickness across a floor. Some embodiments also feature an applicator pad composed of at least two different types of material. The first material is a floor finish distributing material that serves a function of substantially uniformly spreading bulk floor finish across a floor. The second material is a floor finish finishing material that is suitable for leveling the already spread floor finish. |
| US08662773B2 |
Electronic apparatus
In order to cope with a change in design between a printer having a hip down design specification (first specification) and another printer having a hip up design specification (second specification), each of a lower frame and an upper frame has a structure common to both of the specifications. The lower frame and the upper frame are coupled to each other by a hinge structure removably attached to the lower frame and the upper frame. The hinge structure is selected from a first hinge structure and a second hinge structure. By changing the hinge structure from the first hinge structure to the second hinge structure and vice versa, the height of a hinge center can easily be changed. |
| US08662772B2 |
Edge guide for media transport system
An edge guide is provided. A structure includes curved surface over which a print media can travel. The print media includes a first edge and a second edge that is opposite the first edge. A first media guide is contactable with the first edge of the print media. A second media guide is contactable with the second edge of the print media. The second media guide is spaced apart from the first media guide. A relative spacing between the second media guide and the first media guide is adjustable such that a distance between the first media guide and the second media guide is variable. The second media guide includes a mechanism that applies a nesting force to the second edge of the print media to cause the first edge of the print media to move toward and contact the first media guide. |
| US08662771B2 |
Cutter mechanism and printer with a cutter
A cutter mechanism has a main unit supporting a movable blade and a motor for driving the movable blade. A detachable unit is attachable and detachable from the main unit and supports a fixed blade for cutting a sheet while sandwiching the sheet together with the movable blade. A holder holds the fixed blade with respect to the movable blade in an inclined state so that a cutting edge of the fixed blade forms a predetermined cutting angle with respect to a cutting edge of the movable blade. A holder support member supports the fixed blade movably in a direction in which the movable blade cutting edge moves close to and away from the fixed blade cutting edge. A biasing member biases the holder in a direction so that the fixed blade cutting edge is brought into press-contact with the movable blade cutting edge. |
| US08662770B2 |
Image recording apparatus
Image recording apparatus including manual medium insertion tray manually loaded with recording medium, the tray being connected to rear end portion of housing such that the tray is pivotable in vertical direction about horizontal axis of first hinge portion located below first hinge portion provided for image reading device, between its operative position in which the second recording medium is fed to feeding path leading to image recording device, and its retracted position, the tray placed in the operative position having upwardly inclined posture extending outwardly from the rear end portion of the housing, while the tray placed in the retracted position having posture extending generally downwards into accommodating space formed within the housing and on rear side of U-turn sheet transfer path connecting the sheet supply cassette and the feeding path, the tray being pivotable between the operative and retracted positions through rear opening formed in the housing. |
| US08662763B2 |
L-shaped holder for optical devices
An L-shaped holder for optical devices, in particular cameras, comprising a first exchangeable plate that can be fastened to the housing of the optical device by means of a screw, a second exchangeable plate and a connector having two webs separated by an angled section for connecting the two exchangeable plates, each exchangeable plate being arranged on one of the webs of the connector, which is characterised in that the exchangeable plates are connected to the connector such that the exchangeable plates can be moved on the connector. |
| US08662762B2 |
Compact lens optical system and digital camera module including the same
A dual lens optical system (OS) includes a photographing device, a first OS having a first reflection member and redirecting an optical axis of light representing an image of an object input from a first direction toward the photographing device, and a second OS having a second reflection member, redirecting an optical axis of light representing an image of an object input from a second direction toward the photographing device, and sharing at least one of optical elements of the first OS. The first and second OSs selectively redirect the image light from the first or second direction toward the photographing device. The photographing surface has a first region where the light representing the image of the object input through the first OS is formed, and a second region where light representing the image of the object input through the second OS is formed, have different sizes and are overlapped. |
| US08662761B2 |
Laser optical system using optical fiber transmission
A laser optical system using optical fiber transmission, includes a first optical fiber for transmitting laser light emitted from a laser oscillator, a collimator lens for collimating laser light emitted from the first optical fiber, a spherical array lens including a plurality of cells for converging laser light emitted from the collimator lens into a plurality of spots, a plurality of second optical fibers each having a smaller core diameter than the first optical fiber and configured to admit the laser light converged into the corresponding spot by the spherical array lens, the second optical fibers having output ends that have mutually parallel axial lines and are arranged linearly in a single row, and a linearization optical unit for shaping laser light emitted from the second optical fibers into laser light having a linear cross section at an illuminated surface. |
| US08662758B2 |
Optical fiber coupling device
An optical fiber coupling device includes a first optical fiber connector having a light source; and a second optical fiber connector matched with the first optical fiber connector by pull and plug. The second optical fiber connector includes a light sensor. The light sensor records a predetermined light level as a reference when the second optical fiber connector is at a aligned position to the first optical fiber connector, and is capable of detecting an incident light level, thereby showing that whether the second optical fiber connector is at the aligned position to the first optical fiber connector by compare of the incident light level and the reference. |
| US08662755B2 |
Roller bearing device having radial-plane arrangement structure of rotation sensor
Provided is a roller bearing device, which is suitable for preventing misdetection of a rotation sensor when a moment load is applied. A thin motor 100 includes a cross roller bearing 14 having an inner ring 14a and an outer ring 14b, a stator 22 supported by the inner ring 14a, a rotor 12 supported by the outer ring 14b, a motor unit 16 that applies rotation torque to the rotor 12, and a resolver 30 that detects a rotation angle position of the rotor 12. The resolver 30, the cross roller bearing 14, and the motor unit 16 are arranged in the recited order from the radially inner side on a radially identical plane. |
| US08662754B1 |
Damped air bearing
An air or gas bearing supports a moving mass on a thin column of gas which is partially constrained in a pressurized cavity. The gas to the cavity is supplied through a fluidic amplifier. Pressure in the thin supporting column above the bearing pad, or the position of the mass surface relative to the open end of the pressurized cavity, is sensed. The resulting feedback pressure signal is dynamically compensated to produce a pressure signal to the input ports of the fluidic amplifier which is a function of the velocity of the mass. The compensation network consists of orifices, or flow resistors, and volume cavities, or compressible fluid capacitors. The compensated feedback pressure is amplified by the fluidic amplifier to provide an output pressure to the bearing cavity which is indicative of and nearly proportional to the mass velocity perpendicular to the bearing pad and achieve a high degree of damping without use of extremely small orifices or complicated electromechanical damping means. |
| US08662752B2 |
Motion guide device and method of manufacturing same
A motion guide device has a moving block mounting surface 501 of an end plate 5 formed in a planar shape and a thinned-down portion 52 formed in an opposing moving block mounting surface 502. Moreover, in this motion guide device, a lubrication path 30 includes: a first lubrication path 30a formed extending in a horizontal direction from a surface of side surfaces parallel to a longer direction of a track rail 1 in the end plate 5 to a central portion of the end plate 5; a second lubrication path 30b formed in the central portion of the end plate 5; and a third lubrication path 30c connected to the second lubrication path and formed in a groove shape in the moving block mounting surface 501 of the end plate 5, and, moreover, the first lubrication path 30a is formed in a hollow shape continuous to inside a built-up portion 52a appended to the thinned-down portion 52 of the end plate 5. Having such a configuration enables this motion guide device to achieve an average dispersal of lubricant to each of rolling element circulation paths regardless of mounting position of a greasing nipple with respect to the end plate, type of lubricant, and so on. |
| US08662749B2 |
Digital radiographic device having a linear scanner
An x-ray imaging apparatus comprises a platform connected to a frame, a sliding bar, a detector mounted on the sliding bar, an x-ray source, and a control system. The x-ray source includes a collimator to generate an x-ray exposure window. The control system is configured to slide the detector along the sliding bar and synchronously move the collimator to direct the x-ray exposure window to the first detector. The x-ray exposure window movements are registered to the detector movements. The detector interfaces with a processor that processes x-ray image data received from the detector, and generates at least one x-ray image from the x-ray image data. |
| US08662747B2 |
Temperature sensing apparatus and method of sensing temperature
A temperature sensing apparatus disposed inside a chip includes first and second current generation circuits, first and second current-to-frequency converters, and a counting unit. The first current generation circuit is configured to generate a first current varying proportional to the temperature of the temperature sensing apparatus. The second current generation circuit is configured to generate a second current independent of temperature. The first current-to-frequency converter is configured to generate a first frequency signal with a first frequency indicative of the first current, and the second current-to-frequency converter is configured to generate a second frequency signal with a second frequency indicative of the second current. The counting unit is configured to generate a digital signal indicative of the temperature according to the difference between the first and second frequencies. |
| US08662745B2 |
Methods of measuring conditions of an ultrasonic instrument
A method of measuring conditions of an ultrasonic instrument includes providing an ultrasonic instrument that includes an end effector and a waveguide operably coupled to a generator and the end effector. The method involves generating one or more pulses with the generator, transmitting the one or more pulses to one or both of the waveguide and the end effector, generating one or more waves that scatter in an interferential pattern in response to the transmission of the one or more pulses, registering a signal indicative of the interferential pattern, generating an actual interferential pattern based upon the signal, and identifying one or more conditions of the end effector based upon the actual interferential pattern. |
| US08662741B2 |
Horological movement comprising a high oscillation frequency regulating device
The horological movement comprises a regulating device having an oscillation frequency (f) and an escapement for maintaining the oscillations of the regulating device. The escapement comprises an escape wheel having (N) teeth. The frequency (f) is at least equal to about 5 Hz, and the ratio between the number (N) of teeth and the frequency (f) is substantially equal to 5. |
| US08662735B2 |
Sonication of a medium
Sonication of a medium for example in an immunoassay is provided by applying sound waves from a transducer to a vessel in which the medium is held by a sonotrode coupled between the transducer and the vessel. The sonotrode has a recess in which the vessel is held, the recess being formed by facing surfaces of a plurality of protruding portions of the sonotrode separated by slits and arranged around the recess. The sonotrode is coupled to the vessel by dry contact with the vessel without any coupling layers therebetween. The use of such a sonotrode provides the advantages of allowing effective sonication with relatively low energy loss and with a low temperature elevation. |
| US08662733B2 |
LED night-light
An LED night-light generally includes a standard night-light assembly for an incandescent light bulb retrofit with an LED. A housing has an interior surface defining a cylindrical opening. The interior surface has threads adapted to mate with a threaded end of the incandescent light bulb. First and second prongs extend out of the housing and are configured for insertion into an electrical outlet. A groove is in the interior surface of the housing. A disk is received in the groove and mounts the LED to the housing so that the standard night-light assembly is retrofit as an LED night-light. |
| US08662731B2 |
Foldable backlit display and device having the same
A display includes an outer casing, two backlight modules, and a flexible display panel. The outer casing includes at least one connecting member having two connecting ends respectively disposed at left and right sides thereof, and two casing panels connected respectively to the connecting ends and respectively having bonding faces. The two backlight modules are disposed respectively on the bonding faces of the casing panels. The flexible display panel includes two side panel sections disposed respectively on the backlight modules, and a foldable intermediate section connected between the side panel sections. The casing panels are pivotal relative to each other to move the backlight modules and the flexible display panel to an unfolded position. The backlight modules coplanarly cover a backside of the flexible display panel in the unfolded position. |
| US08662730B2 |
Display apparatus and method of assembling the same
In a display apparatus, a light guide plate includes a chamfered corner portion that defines a light incident surface. A light source unit is arranged adjacent to the light incident surface to provide the light to the light guide plate through the light incident surface. A display panel receives light from the light guide plate to display an image. A receiving container includes sidewalls and a bottom portion to accommodate the light guide plate and the light source unit. At least one sidewall adjacent to the corner portion is divided into a first part and a second part that may be coupled to or separated from each other. Thus, the light guide plate and the light source unit may be easily accommodated in the receiving container, thereby improving an assembling efficiency. |
| US08662729B2 |
Light unit and display apparatus having the same
Disclosed is a light unit. The light unit includes: a light guide plate having a plurality of grooves formed on one side thereof; a light guide extension formed at one side of the groove; and at least one light emitting diode allowing light to be incident on the light guide plate through the light guide extension. |
| US08662727B2 |
Apparatus for efficiently coupling light from a light source into a thin object
An apparatus for efficiently coupling light from a light source into a thin object such as a rod or a sheet is disclosed. In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a sheet and a linear light source placed along the edge of the sheet. The light from linear light source is coupled into the sheet using one or more concentrator blocks. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a rod and a point light source placed near one end of the rod. The light from point light source is coupled into the rod using one or more concentrator blocks. |
| US08662725B2 |
Actuator
Into a case member, either of a unidirectional adjusting device for adjusting an irradiating direction of light only in a vertical direction by tilting a lamp unit in the vertical direction or a bidirectional adjusting device for adjusting the irradiating direction of light in two directions of the vertical direction and a horizontal direction by tilting the lamp unit in the vertical direction and rotating the lamp unit in the horizontal direction can be installed. |
| US08662715B2 |
Optical lens module and lighting apparatus having the same
An optical lens module includes a lens body and a transflective unit. The lens body has a central axis, and has an incident surface, a refractive surface and a side refractive surface. The refractive surface includes a refractive arc-surface and at least one auxiliary refractive surface on the side of the refractive arc-surface. The transflective unit covers the refractive surface. The light incident on the refractive surface is diverged away from the central axis and the diverged light on the transflective unit is partially through the transflective unit and partially reflected to travel out of the lens body through the side refractive surface. The light incident on the transflective unit is reflected to travel out of the lens body through the side refractive surface. The light incident on the side refractive surface is refracted out of the lens body through the side refractive surface. |
| US08662714B1 |
U-turn lens for a recessed light fixture
A U-turn lens for a recessed light fixture comprising a tubular, transparent, internally reflective, hollow cylindrical lens having a closed top including a hot mirror receiving focused light from a reflector lamp, an inside diameter extending to an open lower end where focused light is emitted and collimated light is received through the lens outside the inside diameter to an angular reflector reflecting the collimated light transversely to illuminate a concave decorative shade. |
| US08662707B2 |
Laser beam pattern projector
Methods and systems consistent with some embodiments presented provide methods for denying visual access to a first area from a target area. In some embodiments, methods for denying visual access from a target area may include generating a structured light pattern and projecting the structured light pattern from onto the target area. The structured light pattern may be moved at a rate and in a pattern to deny visual access of a first area from the target area. In some embodiments, the rate and the pattern may be chosen based on characteristics of the target area. |
| US08662703B2 |
Lens structure for mobile phone flashlight
A lens structure for mobile phone flashlight is provided, to improve luminance of edge area and overall luminance. The lens structure includes a lens body. The lens body includes an incident surface and a light-emitting surface, and the incident surface is a Fresnel lens. Edge area of the light-emitting surface is partially disposed symmetrically with at least a pair of second surfaces, and remaining area forms a first surface. The edges of the second surfaces tilt towards direction of the incident surface so that the first surface forms an angle with the second surfaces. As such, the lens structure is able to refract light to project in near rectangular area onto a target object when taking picture. |
| US08662701B2 |
Flashlight having a controller providing programmable operating states
An electrical light or flashlight may comprise: a housing for receiving a battery; an electrical light source in the housing; an electrical switch including an electrically conductive flexible dome providing a switch contact; a controller for selectively energizing and de-energizing the electrical light source, wherein said controller is programmable responsive to closures or openings or both of the electrical switch, or to a time therebetween, or to continuous closure or opening thereof, or to a combination thereof, for operating the light source in predetermined operating states. |
| US08662700B2 |
Flashlight with motorized directional lighthead for lightbeam placement
A flashlight has a casing, designed for hand-carrying, housing a motor connected to a lighthead by a mechanical linkage, one or more power sources configured to supply power to the lighthead and to the motor, and a user-operable control device configured to control a motion of the lighthead. The lighthead contains or is attached to a lighting element, the user-operable control device includes a switching assembly, and the lighthead is rotatable about an axis. The mechanical linkage is configured to translate a motive force from the motor into motion of the lighthead. Operation of the switching device rotates the lighthead, easily adjusting the direction of the light beam emitted by the flashlight at the touch of a finger. |
| US08662697B2 |
Self-contained, portable headlamp, automatic brake-light, and articulable battery system
Embodiments described herein include a portable system for providing lighting, the system includes a power source that comprises multiple electrical power storage cells in an array that is articulable such that the array is attachable to irregular surfaces, and non-planar surfaces. Embodiments further include a light source coupled to the power source, a primary light beam shaper that shapes light from the light source and passes the light to a lens, and a housing that houses the primary light beam shaper and the lens, wherein the housing is a secondary light shaper that changes the field and shape of a light beam emitted from the primary light beam shaper. Further embodiments include an automatic, powered portable light that is turned on when motion is sensed, such as deceleration of an object. The portable light, a switch and a power source are contained in a housing that is easily mounted to an object such as a bicycle. |
| US08662694B1 |
Illumination device and method
An illumination device for use with a firearm and a method of using the same are disclosed. The illumination device can include a gun grip cover configured to attach to a gun grip. The illumination device can have a first illumination element extending to the left of the gun grip cover and a second illumination element extending to the right of the gun grip cover. The illumination elements can deliver a spread of light to illuminate a large area. The illumination elements can be laterally adjacent to the barrel. The illumination elements can be controlled by a control switch positioned below the trigger. |
| US08662692B2 |
Touch panel using assembling frame for assembly
In a touch panel, a cover lens, a sensor unit, and a panel cell are assembled first via glue to form a panel component, where a concave portion is also formed at the side of the panel component. An assembling frame is used to extend into the concave portion and covering around the side and bottom of a backlight module so as to assemble the panel component with the backlight module. Wrapping tape and further fixtures that were used to combine the backlight module and the cell may be removed to reduce the overall cost of the touch panel, while the yield rate of the adhering process may be effectively promoted since the adhering process is done simply on glass components. |
| US08662687B2 |
Brewster angle film for light management in luminaires and other lighting systems
Multilayer optical films are disclosed that exhibit high reflectivity at normal incidence for all polarizations but preferentially transmit high angle rays in one or two orthogonal planes of incidence. Both symmetrical and asymmetrical constructions are disclosed. The films can be used in direct-lit backlights and in lighting systems other than direct-lit backlights, such as edge-lit backlights, and non-backlight lighting systems such as systems intended for general illumination without the need for any graphic component, such as luminaires and task lights. |
| US08662686B2 |
Light guide plate and virtual image display apparatus having the same
Since a distance from an image extraction part to a light exiting surface is shorter downstream in an optical path than upstream in the optical path in relation to Z direction that is an arraying direction of reflection units, image light that propagates to pass between the image extraction part and the light exiting surface without becoming incident on the reflection units and therefore cannot be extracted to outside can be reduced. That is, since image light having a large total reflection angle in a light guide plate can be securely made incident on the image extraction part and efficiently extracted from the light exiting surface, light use efficiency in image formation can be enhanced. Thus, a virtual image display apparatus with brightness and high performance can be provided. |
| US08662682B2 |
Magnetically repositionable reflective safety devices
The present invention provides a magnetically repositionable reflective device for enhancing the visibility of objects, persons and pets, especially in low light environments. The device comprises a magnetically responsive element within a reflective sheath. |
| US08662680B2 |
Projector with super luminescent diode
A projector includes: a light emitting device; a light modulation device adapted to modulate a light beam emitted from the light emitting device; and a projection device adapted to project the image formed by the light modulation device, wherein the light emitting device includes a light emitting element formed of a super luminescent diode, and adapted to emit light, and a base supporting the light emitting element with first and second reflecting surfaces to reflect the light emitted from the light emitting element. The light emitting element emits the light from first and second end surfaces. Directions of first and second outgoing light respectively emitted from the first and second end surfaces are opposite to each other. Directions of the first and second reflected light respectively reflected by the first and second reflecting surfaces are the same as each other. |
| US08662677B2 |
Projection apparatus, illumination module and brightness adjusting method for the projection apparatus
A projection apparatus, an illumination module and a brightness adjusting method for the projection apparatus are provided. The projection apparatus comprises the illumination module and the actuator. The illumination module comprises a luminous element. First, the actuator drives the luminous element to move from the first position to the second position to detect the first brightness and second brightness generated by the luminous element. When the first brightness is higher than the second brightness, the actuator is adapted to drive the luminous element to the first position. Thereby, the brightness of a projection image generated by the projection apparatus can be adjusted to an optimal value. |
| US08662676B1 |
Automatic projector calibration
Devices and techniques are described for automatically calibrating a projector system. The projector system undergoing calibration is coupled to a computing device and an automated positioning platform coupled to a target structure. The computing device acquires images using a calibrated camera of one or more patterns projected by the projector onto the target structure when the target structure is in a plurality of repeatable poses. From these acquired images, intrinsic projector parameters may be determined. Once determined, the parameters may be used to correct images produced by the projector or acquired by the camera which include a projected pattern or portion thereof. |
| US08662675B2 |
Compact image offset projection lens
A projection lens for projecting images with high degrees of image offset while limiting the physical offset of the projection lens elements. The projection lens arrangement limits the displacement of the optical elements relative to the optical axis of the display panel and enables a very thin, efficient projector. |
| US08662670B2 |
Spectrally-adjustable ophthalmic illumination with discrete sources
An ophthalmic illuminator includes a one or more light combining stages arranged in series to augment a white light source with various color spectral bands. A first stage combines white light from a white light source with colored light from a first color source. Each subsequent stage in the series adds its own respective colored light. The color sources may be selectively turned on/off or driven with variable amounts of power. In this fashion, a combined light is produced by the final stage that represents a desired chromaticity and brightness as desired for a particular ophthalmic therapeutic procedure. |
| US08662668B2 |
Fundus oculi observing device
A fundus oculi observing device 1 specifies a characteristic site of a fundus oculi Ef depicted in tomographic images of the fundus oculi Ef and, based on the position of the characteristic site within frames FH and FV of the tomographic images, changes a target position of a signal light LS so that the characteristic site is depicted in the center positions within the frames FH and FV and executes a main measurement, thereby forming a tomographic image and/or a three-dimensional image of the fundus oculi Ef. |
| US08662666B2 |
Method and devices for treatment of macular degeneration visual impairment
A method and device for improving the perceived vision of a person having macular degeneration wherein, a plurality of means is employed externally to the eye to selectively block the reception of a distorted image caused by the impaired eye whereby overall vision is improved. |
| US08662665B2 |
Refractive-diffractive multifocal lens
Aspects of the present invention provide multifocal lenses having one or more multifocal inserts comprising one or more diffractive regions. A diffractive region of a multifocal insert of the present invention can provide a constant optical power or can provide a progression of optical power, or any combination thereof. A multifocal insert of the present invention can be fabricated from any type of material and can be inserted into any type of bulk lens material. A diffractive region of a multifocal insert of the present invention can be positioned to be in optical communication with one or more optical regions of a host lens to provide a combined desired optical power in one or more vision zones. Index matching layers of the present invention can be used to reduce reflection losses at interfaces of the host lens and multifocal insert. |
| US08662664B2 |
Device for asymmetrical refractive optical correction in the peripheral retina for controlling the progression of myopia
Optical device (1) for modifying the optics of the eye in its peripheral retina as prophylaxis of the progression of myopia, that it consists in a lens in which its inferior nasal quadrant (2) modifies the strength in a progressive and controlled manner from the center to the outer zone of the lens. The rest of the quadrants (3) of device (1) have a configuration of a graduated crystal or flat crystal, depending, respectively, on whether the user has some visual defect that requires optical correction or lacks said defect. The lens can be either an optical lens, a contact lens or electro-optical systems. |
| US08662663B2 |
Hybrid soft contact lens, and production method and hydration treatment method thereof
The present invention provides a hybrid soft contact lens including a central portion formed with a first hydrous soft material, and a peripheral portion formed with a second hydrous soft material, in which the first hydrous soft material is obtained by curing a first curable composition including a silicone-containing monomer. Preferably, the first hydrous soft material has a Young's modulus of no less than 3.0 MPa and no greater than 100 MPa, and the second hydrous soft material has a Young's modulus of no less than 0.20 MPa and less than 3.0 MPa. |
| US08662662B2 |
Contact lens for treating binocular diplopia
A contact lens for treating binocular diplopia, the contact lens comprising: a central region adapted to degrade light passing therethrough, so as to create a central scotoma in a patient's eye in which the contact lens is placed in use; and a peripheral region adapted to degrade light passing therethrough to a lesser extent than in the central region, or not at all; such that, in use, an image in the field of view of the said eye is degraded only in the center or to a greater extent in the center than in the periphery. Also provided is a method of manufacturing such a lens, and a method of treating binocular diplopia comprising applying such a lens to a patient's eye. |
| US08662655B2 |
Inkjet printer and method for printing
An inkjet printer includes a guide rail that faces a medium support member and extends in a scanning direction. A head device includes a carriage movable in the scanning direction along the guide rail. A printer head is mounted on the carriage and is configured to discharge an ink toward a printing medium. An ultraviolet radiation device is mounted on the carriage and is configured to output an ultraviolet radiation toward the printing medium thereby curing the ink that has adhered onto the printing medium after being discharged from the printer head. The ultraviolet radiation device is arranged in the carriage on a side of the printer head in the scanning direction. An intensity controller is configured to control an intensity of the ultraviolet radiation output from the ultraviolet radiation device depending on a direction of movement of the carriage. |
| US08662654B2 |
Printing device and printing method
A printing device includes a plurality of heads ejecting ink cured by irradiation of light and arranged in a transport direction of a medium, a plurality of temporary curing light sources provided respectively corresponding to the plurality of heads and respectively irradiating light for temporary curing to dots formed on the medium by the respective heads, and a main curing light source irradiating light for main curing to the dots to which the plurality of temporary curing light sources have irradiated the light, wherein the printing device has a first printing mode where a clear ink is ejected from a head placed at the upper stream in the transport direction when seen from heads ejecting color inks, and a second printing mode where the clear ink is ejected from a head placed at the lower stream in the transport direction when seen from the heads ejecting the color inks. |
| US08662650B2 |
Liquid droplet discharge head
A liquid droplet discharge head includes a plurality of discharge unit parts, each of which extends in a first direction. The discharge unit parts are arranged in a second direction intersecting with the first direction. Each of the discharge unit parts includes: a nozzle column configured by a plurality of nozzles; a liquid droplet discharge surface; a common flow path; a plurality of pressure chambers; a damper chamber extending in the first direction; a damper wall arranged between the damper chamber and the common flow path; and a pillar part connecting the damper wall and a separate wall that is different from the damper wall in the damper chamber. A position of the pillar part of at least one discharge unit part of the discharge unit parts in the first direction is deviated from a position of the pillar part in the other discharge unit part. |
| US08662647B2 |
Rotary valve for printhead
A rotary valve for distributing ink from an ink source to a media width inkjet printhead, the valve having a body, a shaft rotatably mounted to the body, a channel cylinder arranged on the shaft to be rotatable therewith, the channel cylinder having a channel defined along its circumference, a port cylinder fixed to the body relative to the shaft so as to concentrically and sealingly enclose the channel cylinder, the port cylinder having a plurality of ports defined therethrough along its circumference for respective connection to the printhead and ink source, each port being aligned with a portion of the channel and a selection device for selectively rotating the shaft to establish interconnection between the ports and the channel thereby allowing ink flow between the ports via the channel. |
| US08662644B2 |
Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric element
A piezoelectric element comprising a piezoelectric layer containing bismuth, lanthanum iron manganese and titanium and a electrode formed above the piezoelectric layer. |
| US08662642B2 |
Liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes a substrate having an energy-generating element for generating energy to be used for ejecting a liquid and a supply port in the form of a through-hole for supplying the liquid to the energy-generating element, and an orifice plate including an ejection orifice for ejecting the liquid. A plurality of the energy-generating elements is arranged in a first direction. The supply port is formed between the plurality of the energy-generating elements in the first direction, and the supply port is formed so as to be adjacent to the energy-generating element in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. |
| US08662637B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid ejecting method
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes first and second rows of nozzles ejecting first and second fluids respectively. A control section repeats an image formation operation ejecting fluid from the first and second nozzles while moving them perpendicularly to the row direction and controls transportation of the medium in the row direction. After formation of a first image layer by the first and second fluids, a second image layer is formed thereon by the second fluid. For normal image formation, the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer are further upstream in the row direction than the second nozzles forming the second image layer, and for image formation of an upper end of the medium, the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer are further downstream in the row direction than the first and second nozzles forming the first image layer in normal image formation. |
| US08662635B2 |
Fluid ejection device, flushing method, and flushing program
A fluid ejection device comprising: a first mid-recording flushing unit for ejecting fluid from the plurality of nozzles and carrying out flushing under a first fluid ejection condition during a recording process in accordance with the recording data; and a second mid-recording flushing unit for ejecting the fluid from the nozzles on the head part and carrying out flushing under a second fluid ejection condition in which at least one of the ejection frequency and quantity of the droplets of fluid ejected from the nozzles is greater than with the first fluid ejection condition when the head part is in a recording initiation part of an image that is formed on the recording medium during the recording process. |
| US08662631B2 |
Image processing device and cover attachment structure
An image processing device allows for easy removal of a process medium stuck in the conveyance path while protecting the image processing unit from the outside. In many embodiments, the device includes a conveyance path for conveying process media in a specific conveyance direction, an image processing unit having an ejection surface (process surface) disposed facing the conveyance path, and a first cover and a second cover disposed along the conveyance path and covering the conveyance path. Typically, the first and second covers open and close by pivoting on first and second pivot pins disposed in a direction intersecting the conveyance direction, and the first and second pivot pins are disposed adjacent the conveyance path upstream and downstream of the portion of the conveyance path facing the ejection surface. |
| US08662629B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus including: a first casing; a second casing; and a controller, wherein the first casing is movable between a close position close to the second casing and a distant position farther from the second casing than the close position, the first casing accommodating a head having an ejection face. The second casing accommodates: a support portion having a support face for supporting a recording medium while facing the ejection face; and a moving device configured to move the support portion, such that the support face selectively takes a first state to face the ejection face and a second state not to face the ejection face. A restraining portion restrains movement of the first casing located at the close position, and the controller controls the moving device, such that the support face takes the second state when the controller has received a restraint releasing signal. |
| US08662626B2 |
Device and method for controlling the tension of a substrate web
A device for controlling substrate web tension includes first and second driving units with respective driving rollers around which the substrate web is partially guided and tensioned. The first and second driving units have different rotational moments of inertia. A measuring unit measures the tension of the substrate web. A control unit has first and a second filtering units with different filtering characteristics for filtering the measured value. The control unit includes a first control device for controlling the first driving unit based on the measured value filtered by the first filtering device, and a second control device for controlling the second driving unit based on the measured value filtered by the second filtering device. |
| US08662625B2 |
Method of printhead calibration between multiple printheads
A method of identifying positions of a plurality of printheads in a printer is described. The printer identifies the positions of each of the plurality of printheads with reference to image data of a printed test pattern. The printer calibrates one or more printheads using only a single test pattern to correct registration errors in the printheads. |
| US08662624B2 |
Foreign object detection device, foreign object detection method, droplet discharging device, and droplet discharging method
According to one embodiment, a foreign object detection device includes a signal generator, a transmitter, a receiver, a storage section, and a detection section. A signal generator configured to generate an electrical signal. A transmitter configured to convert the electrical signal from the signal generator and to generate a pressure wave in a liquid. A receiver configured to receive a reflection wave from the liquid and to convert it to an electrical signal. A storage section configured to store information on a state of absence of a foreign object in the liquid. A detection section configured to detect at least one of presence or absence of the foreign object and size of the foreign object based on difference between the electrical signal converted from the reflection wave and an electrical signal based on the stored information. |
| US08662623B2 |
Printing registered patterns on multiple media sides
A method of printing includes printing first and second patterns at first and second locations on first and second sides of a media using first and second printheads, respectively. First and second fiducial images including a fiducial origin are captured using first and second cameras, respectively. First and second pattern images of the first and second patterns are captured using the first and second cameras, respectively. The locations of the first and second patterns relative to the fiducial origin are determined using an image registration controller. A relative printed location of the first pattern and the second pattern is determined. A deviation is determined by comparing the determined relative location of the first and second printed patterns with an intended relative location of the first and second printed patterns. The determined deviation is compensated for by adjusting at least one of the first and second printheads so that subsequently printed first and second pattern have the intended relative print locations. |
| US08662622B2 |
Print cartridge output sample
A system and method print an output sample including print cartridge characteristic information. |
| US08662620B2 |
Indirect temperature monitoring for thermal control of a motor in a printer
In one embodiment, a method of operating a permanent magnet direct current (PMDC) motor in a printer has been developed. The method includes identifying that a temperature of the PMDC motor exceeds an operating temperature of the motor without the use of a direct temperature sensor. The PMDC motor operates at a reduced printing rate to prevent the motor from overheating. |
| US08662618B2 |
Printing apparatus and jam restoration method in printing apparatus
In the event that occurrence of a jam has been detected during conveyance of a sheet, the sheet is cut at a cutter unit, and a user is prompted to perform manual jam restoration processing according to the location where the jam has occurred. If the jam has occurred upstream from the cutter unit, the cut sheets left downstream from the cutter unit are discharged as completed articles. |
| US08662615B2 |
Method of printing a barcode using a line printhead, and a printing
A barcode printing method can easily and quickly find the location of a group of consecutive printing elements that can print a barcode correctly when the line print head has faulty printing elements. The printing device determines the shift range for the barcode printing position, aligns the center of the barcode print data with the center of the shift range, from this position alternately shifts the print data one printing element at a time left and right in the line direction, and finds a group of consecutive printing elements that can print the barcode correctly. A normal printing range can thus be found in a short time with the smallest shift compared with searching from the end of the shift range, and the overall efficiency of a barcode printing operation that executes repeatedly can be improved. |
| US08662614B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus including a first-recording executing section configured to execute a two-way processing based on first data included in recording data corresponding to a predetermined maximum number of lines recordable during a single movement of a carriage, the first data being data based on which liquid ejection is performed on a downstream side of a unit area in which a ratio of the number of dots each required for multi-color ejection to the number of all dots is not less than a first value. The first-recording executing section executes a one-way processing based on data corresponding to the unit area in which the ratio is not less than the first value and data based on which liquid ejection is performed on an upstream side of the unit area, which two data are included in the recording data corresponding to the predetermined maximum number. |
| US08662611B2 |
Inkjet printer
A inkjet printer including a plurality of heads installed in a staggered arrangement, and a relay board for receiving image data, a control signal conforming to each head, and a timing signal for determining timed intervals to emit ink particles from the control unit of the inkjet printer, and for sending the received image data, control signal and timing signal to the aforementioned plurality of respective drive signal generating circuits. |
| US08662610B2 |
Pressure damper, liquid jet head, and liquid jet apparatus
A pressure damper includes a main body portion having a recessed portion with an opening and a communication hole that opens to an inner surface of the recessed portion and communicates to an external region. A flexible thin film closes the opening of the main body portion for reducing pressure fluctuations of fluid in the recessed portion. A detecting portion is engaged with the main body portion for detecting electromotive force generated by electromagnetic induction to thereby detect a relative positional change between the flexible thin film and the main body portion. |
| US08662609B2 |
Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, a recording head, head tanks, main tanks, liquid feed pumps, a first driving source, a drive control unit, and a drive switching assembly. The drive switching assembly includes a second driving source, a cam, a slider member, a switching gear, switching position detected portions, and a detector. The detected portions are disposed at the cam so as to correspond to switching positions of the liquid feed pumps. One of the detected portions has a greater width in a rotation direction of the cam than any other detected portion. When a time from when the detector detects one of the detected portions to when the detector detects another one of the detected portions is shorter than a threshold value, the drive control unit determines, as a home position, a position of the cam on detection of the another one with the detector. |
| US08662606B2 |
Drawer assembly and associated method for controllably limiting the slideable extension of a drawer
A cabinet, a drawer assembly and an associated method are provided for controllably limiting the slideable extension of a drawer relative to a cabinet body. The cabinet is configured to store a plurality of medications and includes a cabinet body and a drawer assembly that, in turn, includes a drawer slideably disposed within the cabinet body and an extension control rod. The drawer may include a plurality of pockets for storing respective medications. The drawer may also include an outwardly extending engagement member. The extension control rod may include a plurality of outwardly extending projections that are arranged helically about the rod. As such, engagement of a projection of the extension control rod with the engagement member of the drawer limits further slideable extension of the drawer relative to the cabinet body. |
| US08662604B2 |
Method and apparatus for knock out feature in brittle material
A master electrical insulation barrier panel for use in a switchgear arrangement. The master electrical insulation barrier panel includes a plurality of optionally removable knock-out features, wherein each of the knock-out features has a peripheral edge. The peripheral edge includes a plurality of snapable tabs, wherein each snapable tab is separated by an opening configured to create a breakable weak link in a non-electrically conductive brittle material used for fabricating the master electrical insulation barrier wherein a weak link is associated with each of the optionally removable knock-out features. In addition, each of the optionally removable knock-out features corresponds to an optional opening for at least one possible electrical connection, such that at least one knock-out feature can be optionally removed from the master electrical insulation barrier panel during installation of the master electrical insulation barrier panel to create the optional opening for at least one electrical connection. |
| US08662603B2 |
Protective enclosure including a pry resistant door
A protective enclosure including a housing defining a door opening is provided. A first flange extends from an opening end of a door and is angled relative to a surface of said door inwardly toward an interior storage space of the enclosure. The first flange and the door surface form an obtuse angle. A second flange extends from a hinge end of the door and is angled relative to the door surface inwardly toward the interior storage space. The second flange and the door surface form an obtuse angle. A hinge pivotally mounts the door with the housing. A locking mechanism selectively locks the door to the housing. The housing includes a channel disposed along at least a portion of the door opening. At least a portion of the first and second flanges are disposed within the channel when the door is closed to resist pry attacks. |
| US08662600B2 |
Working vehicle with electromagnetic brake
A lawnmower vehicle which is a working vehicle with an electromagnetic brake includes left and right electromagnetic brakes, a brake relay which is a common brake releasing unit, and an ECU. The ECU compares electricity supply states of the left and right electromagnetic brakes, and controls the brake relay to disconnect an electrical connection between a battery and the left and right electromagnetic brakes, and to brake left and right wheels when a difference in the electricity supply states compared by a comparator exceeds an allowable upper limit. |
| US08662599B2 |
Composite wheel
A wheel hub includes a wheel rim and a support. The wheel rim has an inner rim surface, an outer rim surface and a connection concave. The wheel rim is composed of a metallic layer and a carbon fiber layer. The outer rim surface has an outer wall to be the metallic layer. The wheel hub is composed of the metallic layer and the carbon fiber layer. Compared to the conventional wheel hub made of a single metallic material or a carbon fiber material, the wheel hub made of metal and carbon fiber of the present invention is light in weight, endurable, and cost-effective. The outer wall of the outer rim surface of the conventional wheel hub is easily to be damaged by an external force when in use, which result in a break of the carbon fiber to lose the strength of the carbon fiber. By contrast, the present invention has the metallic layer to protect the outer wall of the outer rim surface of the wheel rim, so that the carbon fiber layer of the wheel rim won't be hit by an external force so as to enhance the quality of the wheel hub. |
| US08662594B2 |
Arm-rest adjustable in inclination, in particular for vehicles
Arm-rest, adjustable in inclination, in particular for vehicles, comprising: —a fixed part 2, intended to be connected to the frame of the vehicle; —a movable part 3, hinged to the fixed part 2 around a rotation axis X by —hinging means 10, 43, 53 to move between a lowered angular position and a raised angular position; and —a system for adjusting the inclination of the movable part 3 between the aforesaid lowered position and the aforesaid raised position. The invention is characterized by the fact that the system for adjusting comprises at least one freewheeling bearing 20, chosen from the rolling-contact or cam type, associated to the hinging means 10, 43, 53 so as to allow the movable part 3 to rotate around the axis X only in the direction of rotation which from the lowered position leads to the raised position. The system for adjusting also comprises releasing means which act on the hinging means 10 and are able to liberate the rotation, of the movable part 3 from the raised position to the lowered position. |
| US08662592B2 |
Motor-vehicle headrest
A motor-vehicle headrest has a base fixable to a motor vehicle seat and a cushion support having a forwardly directed front face adapted to engage a head of a person in the seat. An upper link has a front end pivoted at an upper support axis on the support and a rear end pivoted at an upper base axis on the base, and a lower link having a front end pivoted at a lower support axis on the support offset downward from the upper support axis and a rear end pivoted at a lower base axis on the base offset downward from the upper base axis. The cushion is shiftable relative to the base between a rear position and a front position on pivoting of the links about the respective axes. A rigid brace is pivoted on the upper link between the upper axes and on the lower link between the lower axes. |
| US08662591B2 |
Reclining chair headrest with height adjustment mechanism
A chair includes at least one leg; a rotatable seat; a backrest; and a headrest including a clamping member having a yoke with two hollow cylindrical yoke arms; two hook members extending forward downward from both sides of the yoke respectively; and a lower well; a support including a hinge head pivotably disposed between the yoke arms; and two opposite fastening portions; a head frame including two rear bars and two joints frictionally, slidably fastened on the bars, each joint frictionally, pivotably secured to the fastening portion; a hooking member in the well and including two hook elements curved upward forward wherein the hook elements cooperate with the hook members to releasably mount the headrest on the backrest; a first hinge element pivotably disposed in one yoke arm and includes a lever; and a second hinge element moveably disposed in the other yoke arm and the hinge head. |
| US08662586B2 |
Dynamically balanced seat assembly having independently and arcuately movable backrest and method
A seat assembly 21 including a seat 22, a backrest 23 and a mounting assembly 24 mounting the seat 22 in a near horizontal orientation for movement along an upwardly concaved arcuate seat path having a center of curvature 37 proximate the center of mass 39 of a person seated on the seat, and mounting assembly 24 further mounting the backrest 23 in a near vertical orientation for movement independently of the seat along a forwardly concaved arcuate path having a center curvature 37 proximate the center of mass 39 of the person. An adjustment assembly 61 is provided for adjusting the radius of curvature of the path of motion of the backrest 23. Also provided are a backrest tilt adjustment assembly 71, an armrest adjustment assembly 90, a seat biasing assembly 110 and a seat motion latching assembly 111. A method of self-adjusting support and alignment of a backrest also is disclosed. |
| US08662585B2 |
Motion seat
A motion seat for use in a vehicle motion simulator comprises a seat back, a seat pan, a first actuator coupled to a linkage assembly located on one side of the seat pan, a second actuator coupled to an identical linkage assembly on the other side of the seat pan, and a third actuator coupled to a linkage assembly on the aft end of the seat pan, wherein the first and second actuators are effective to independently produce roll right and roll left motion of the seat pan while collectively creating upward and downward heave motion of the seat pan and the third actuator is effective to create surge motion of the seat pan. |
| US08662583B2 |
Vehicle seat trim attachment
In at least one embodiment a trim cover assembly has an attachment feature for securing the trim cover to the foam cushion of a vehicle seat. The attachment feature is formed of a strip of touch-fastener material having a first side and a second side disposed adjacent a pair of trim panels. Stitching joins the first side, the second side and the trim panels to each other to form a seam in the trim cover between the pair of trim panels in order to form the attachment feature with the touch-fastener material. |
| US08662580B2 |
Arm rest with drinking vessel holder
An arm rest with a drinking vessel holder is particularly intended for use as a back center arm rest for integration in the back rest of a vehicle. The need for a soft back rest and at the same time for integration of a drinking vessel holder is satisfied by the aspect that the drinking vessel holder is formed of a soft material in the bottom region. Moreover, the foam body for provision of padding is functionally employed for generating the retaining force required for retaining the drinking vessel. |
| US08662574B2 |
Body structure for motor vehicle
A body structure is provided for a motor vehicle that includes, two side sills running in the vehicle longitudinal direction, between which a floor group is situated, and two rear frame profiles rigidly connected to the floor group, which extend from the floor group to the rear. The body structure has a structure crossbeam running in the vehicle transverse direction, which rigidly connects each of the two side sills and also the two rear frame profiles directly to one another. |
| US08662571B2 |
Vehicle hood energy absorbing assembly
A vehicle hood energy absorbing assembly includes outer and inner hood members and a support member. The outer hood member includes outer and inner surfaces facing an exterior and interior, respectively, of a vehicle. The support member is disposed within a space defined between the outer and inner hood members and includes an elongated base member and respective pluralities of front and rear leg members. The elongated base member is disposed adjacent the inner surface and extends laterally along a majority of the outer and inner hood members. The front and rear leg members extend from forward and rear portions, respectively, of the elongated base member to respective free ends that are coupled to the inner hood member. At least one leg member includes a deformation structure at which the leg member at least partially collapses upon application of a prescribed amount of force to the outer surface. |
| US08662569B2 |
Dual torque active grille shutter for snow and ice
An active grille shutter system comprising a controller, a sensor provides a freeze signal to the controller when a temperature is near or below freezing, and an electric motor that opens and closes a plurality of vanes. The motor receives a low current signal from the controller to operate the system at a first torque level and receives a high current signal to operate the system at a second torque level when the controller receives the freeze signal. A precipitation signal from the windshield wiper system of the vehicle is provided to the controller to provide an indication that there is precipitation present in the vehicle environment. The controller may provide the high current signal to the motor only when the freeze signal and the precipitation signal are provided to the controller. A method is also provided for operating the system. |
| US08662568B2 |
Vehicle body structure in the region of the A-pillar and the windshield cross member and associated production method
The invention relates to a vehicle body structure in the region of the A-pillar and the windshield cross member, including an A-pillar on both sides of the body, wherein in the pillar construction of the A-pillar, the A-pillar has an A-pillar inner steel plate oriented approximately vertically and in the vehicle longitudinal direction. An approximately horizontal windshield cross member is connected at the ends thereof to the associated A-pillar inner steel plate by means of a welded connection. According to the invention, the windshield cross member is produced as a composite component made of an elongated aluminum beam having steel plate adapter parts that extend the aluminum beam at the ends thereof but are short in comparison to the overall beam length, and the steel plate adapter parts are connected to the associated A-pillar inner steel plate by means of the welded connection and to the aluminum beam by means of a riveted connection. |
| US08662567B2 |
Vehicle roof support pillar assembly
A vehicle roof support pillar assembly may include a first support pillar and a second support pillar. The first support pillar may have a first hollow body with a first side surface. The second support pillar may have a second hollow body with a second side surface, the second support pillar may be positioned next to the first hollow body when assembled and in use. The first and second side surfaces may contact each other along at least a portion of their vertical extent. |
| US08662566B1 |
Multi extension front bumper beam
A vehicle body front structure includes a front end frame assembly, a bumper beam, left and right inner extension members, and left and right outer extension members. The front end frame assembly is disposed adjacent a forward end of the vehicle. The bumper beam is disposed forward of the front end frame assembly. The left and right inner extension members connect the bumper beam with the front end frame assembly. The left and right outer extension members are disposed on respective external sides of the left and right inner extension members and connect the bumper beam with the front end frame assembly. Each outer extension member includes a forward end section for connecting with the bumper beam, a rear end section having connection locations for connecting with the front end frame assembly and a curved section disposed between the forward end section and the rear end section. |
| US08662549B2 |
Fitting, crane hook, and crane hook assembly
A method of lifting an aircraft at a lifting location including the steps of securing a fitting to the aircraft when the aircraft is at the lifting location, the fitting including an attachment member configured to be secured to the item and a lifting member which is pivotally coupled to the attachment member. The lifting member has a socket for engaging a crane hook. Engaging the fitting with the crane hook and transmitting lifting load from the crane hook to the aircraft via the fitting. The crane hook has an attachment link having a first pivot point attached to the hook forward of its center of gravity, and a second pivot point configured to be lifted by a crane. |
| US08662546B2 |
Vehicle bumper structure
A vehicle bumper structure includes a pair of left and right crush cans, a bumper beam, an energy absorbing member and a bumper face. Each of the crush cans has an outside wall and an inside wall, the inside wall having higher longitudinal stiffness than the outside wall. When a full-wrap collision occurs at a speed below a specified speed limit, neither of the two crush cans crushes but the energy absorbing member and the bumper beam warp and absorb impact energy. When an offset collision occurs at a speed equal to or above the specified speed limit, on the other hand, one of the crush cans sufficiently crushes and absorbs impact energy in a reliable fashion. |
| US08662545B2 |
Vehicle door latch apparatus
A vehicle door latch apparatus includes a meshing portion assembly and an operating portion assembly. The meshing portion assembly includes: a latch; and a pawl engaging with the latch for preventing a rotation of the latch. The operating portion assembly includes: a casing including a shaft portion and a slit; and an operation lever pivotally supported on the shaft portion and including a shaft hole. The slit is provided in a wall portion of the casing at right angles to a rotating plane of the operation lever. The operation lever enters the slit in a waiting position. A movement of the operation lever in a direction of a rotating axis thereof is prevented by loosely fitting the shaft hole on the shaft portion and by entering the operation lever to the slit in a state where the meshing portion assembly is not attached to the operating portion assembly. |
| US08662543B2 |
Plug-type connector for media lines
A plug connector for media lines that includes a plug part having a plug shaft, which can be inserted into a receiving part and is releasably locked therein. The plug part has at least two spring elastic latching arms that extend in the insertion direction. The latching arms have radially inwardly projecting catch cams at their free ends for engaging behind a latching step of the receiving part. The latching arms can be spread radially by a release element to release the plug part. The latching arms are radially spread by displacing the release element. The release element has axially extending release arms, which extend to the area of the catch cams, located radially between the latching arms and the plug shaft. The actuating sections are arranged in such a way for spreading the latching arms to release the catch cams. |
| US08662542B2 |
Barb clamp with smooth bore
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a barb clamp for fluid connection to a flexible tube, the flexible tube having an inner bore defined by a predetermined inner diameter for providing a fluid flow path. The barb clamp includes a barb connector having the same predetermined inner diameter as the flexible tube and a tapered end insertable into the tube. A sleeve and collet lock over the tubing and barb connector to prevent liquid material entering between the barb and tube. The tapered end of the barb connector terminates at a point so that there is no transition between the inner diameter of the tube and the inner diameter of the barb connector to provide no pressure differential in the tube between the outside and inside of the barb clamp. |
| US08662540B2 |
Quick tube connector
Systems for coupling tubes, pipes, conduits, ducts, and the like. In at least some embodiments, a coupling assembly includes a sleeve, a retaining member having an angled end surface, and a locking member. A tube is positioned through the locking member, the retaining member, and into the sleeve. In a first position, a first portion of the locking member contacts an angled end surface of the retaining member, and a second portion of the locking member is spaced apart from the angled end surface. The locking member is then tilted into a second position wherein the second portion is relatively closer to the angled end surface to securely engage the locking member with the tube, and the locking member is then secured in the tilted (or second) position relative to the sleeve, thereby securing the tube within the sleeve. |
| US08662538B2 |
Belt retractor for a vehicle safety belt
A belt retractor for a vehicle safety belt, comprising a belt reel 2 onto which the safety belt is wound when the belt strap is reeled in and from which the safety belt can be unwound when the belt strap is pulled out, a belt strap-sensitive blocking mechanism 12 which blocks extension of the belt strap when the belt strap is extended with excessive acceleration, wherein a retarding device 1 which prevents activation of the belt strap-sensitive blocking mechanism along a specified length of belt strap extension at the beginning of the belt strap extension process is rotatably connected to the belt reel 2. |
| US08662537B2 |
Seat belt device
A dilatant characteristic portion, that is structured to include a dilatant characteristic resin material, is provided at a portion of a webbing from a lap webbing portion to a portion that is further toward a shoulder webbing side than a through-hole of a tongue in a webbing applied state. When the webbing is pushed against an inner peripheral portion of the through-hole due to a body of a passenger pulling the webbing when a vehicle suddenly decelerates, the dilatant characteristic resin material hardens due to this load. Due thereto, flexure of the webbing when the webbing attempts to pass-through the through-hole and move is restricted, and therefore, the shoulder webbing passing-through the through-hole and moving toward a waist portion side of the passenger can be prevented or suppressed. |
| US08662536B2 |
Device for sideways movement
This invention is designed to provide a device for sideways movement which will permit an element to move laterally, such as a set of portable x-ray equipment which is affixed to said device. |
| US08662533B2 |
Airbag module with light weight airbag cushion
An airbag module including an inflatable airbag cushion having a first panel and a second panel interconnected by a seam, an inflator for inflating the airbag cushion, and a support having a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the first panel at a first joint without the use of stitching and the second end is coupled to the second panel at a second joint without the use of stitching. The first and second joints are provided between the seam and an inflatable chamber formed by the first and second panels. |
| US08662525B1 |
Adjustable width trailer
An adjustable width trailer is disclosed which is capable of hauling large machines, farm machinery, or the like. The trailer includes one or more pull-out extender assemblies mounted on the frame of the trailer. Each of the pull-out extender assemblies includes a plurality of horizontally disposed and horizontally spaced-apart support tubes which are secured to the frame of the trailer in a transverse relationship thereto so that the outer ends of the support tubes are positioned outwardly of the frame members of the frame of the trailer. Each of the pull-out extender assemblies includes first and second pull-out sections at one side of the trailer and third and fourth pull-out sections at the other side of the trailer which are individually movable between retraced and extended positions. |
| US08662524B2 |
Assembly including a gliding board and a device for retaining an article of footwear
An assembly including a gliding board and a device for retaining an article of footwear on the board, the device extending longitudinally from a rear end to a front end, the board having a receiving zone provided to receive the retaining device longitudinally in relation to the board. The assembly includes a wedge device which inclines the retaining device longitudinally in relation to the board, so that the retaining device is angled downwardly from the front end to the rear end. |
| US08662523B1 |
Light-weight tow bar and leg lock therefor
A tow bar includes towing and towed hitch members; a head member with a front connector for connecting to the towing hitch member; tow bar legs connected to the head member, each tow bar leg including an outer member and an inner member telescopingly displaceable in the outer member; rear connectors to connect the inner members to the towed hitch member; and locking members each having a first portion adhesively secured to the distal end of the outer member, a second portion fixedly secured to the inner member, and a third portion including a transversely-oriented latch cavity through each inner member, biased opposing latches mounted in the latch cavity wherein the locking member automatically locks the respective inner and outer members relative to each other. |
| US08662519B2 |
Internal cable routing system
An internal cable system for a bicycle is disclosed herein. The system is configured such that vibration between one or more cables and a bicycle frame is reduced. As such, riders are able to navigate through rugged terrain without experiencing increased noise due to internal cable vibration against the bicycle frame. |
| US08662510B2 |
Wheel suspension for wheeled vehicles
Wheel suspension for a wheeled vehicle, with a lower rocking lever (12) with an inner end being movably connected to a vehicle frame (14) via a lower arm part (16) of a double armed rocker (18) which is pivotable about a substantially horizontal axle (20) in the vehicle frame, and with an outer end being articulately attached to a lower part of a wheel hub (24), and an upper support arm (28) with an outer end being articulately attached to an upper end of the wheel hub (24), and with an inner end, being articulately connected to the vehicle frame (14). The upper support arm (28) is connected to an upper arm part (34) of the double armed rocker (18) via a coupling link (36), which is articulately connected to the upper support arm (28) as well as the upper arm part (34) of the double armed rocker (18), wherein the lower rocking lever (12) has an inclination obliquely downwardly outwardly from the vehicle frame (14) in a neutral position of the wheel hub (24). A hydro-pneumatically combined spring acting and damping member (42), which comprises a hydraulic piston-cylinder device (44) and a gas spring (50) communicating therewith via restriction members is with its cylinder articulately connected to the vehicle frame (14), while the outer end of the piston stem (48) of the piston-cylinder device is articulately connected to the upper support arm (28). |
| US08662503B2 |
Method and apparatus for piston-actuated elastomer probe seal in a hydraulic coupling member
A female hydraulic coupling member has an elastomer probe seal molded to or abutting a ring-shaped metal base which is adapted to exert a compressive force on the probe seal when exposed to hydraulic fluid pressure. The compressive force causes the seal to expand in a radial direction thereby increasing its sealing effectiveness. A retainer nut for holding the seal in the receiving chamber may have an angled surface which acts to urge the seal in an inward, radial direction when an axial, compressive force is applied to the seal. |
| US08662500B2 |
Card weight for gravity feed input for playing card shuffler
A card-feeding device for feeding cards into a card-handling device is disclosed. Examples of card-handling devices include shufflers, card sorters, card delivery devices and card verification devices. The device includes a card infeed area that supports a stack of cards. The card infeed area has a card support surface. Included in the device is a card-removing system that removes cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm presses against a card at the top of the stack. At least one sensor is provided that detects at least one of a position of the arm and a presence of a card in the card infeed area. A method of shuffling cards is also disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing cards to be shuffled into a card infeed area as a stack with a top and bottom and removing cards one at a time from the bottom of the stack and moving the removed cards to a shuffling zone. Cards are then shuffled. The stack of cards is stabilized by a pivoting arm capable of pressing against the top of the stack in an engaged position. The pivot arm may be automatically rotated from a first card-engaging position to a second recessed position. |
| US08662499B2 |
Method for transporting printed products including an actuating tape nip
A method for transporting printed products is provided. The method includes the steps setting a nip to a first size for printed products having a first thickness, sensing a printed product having a second thickness different from the first thickness, the printed product sensing occurring prior to the printed product entering the nip, adjusting the first size of the nip, to a second size different from the first size, to receive the printed product having a second thickness; and transporting the printed product having the second thickness through the nip. |
| US08662497B2 |
Storage tray for storing mailpieces
A storage tray for storing mailpieces for a mail-handling machine, which storage tray comprises a support wall, a first jogging wall adjacent and perpendicular to said support wall, and a second jogging wall adjacent and perpendicular both to said support wall and to said first jogging wall, these three walls meeting at a single junction point, the support wall being provided with at least one first slot for allowing motor-driven feed members of the mail-handling machine to pass through. |
| US08662489B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus
A sheet stacking apparatus includes a discharge unit, a stacking tray, an acquisition unit, a shift control unit, and an alignment unit. The shift control unit controls a stacking position of a sheet in a sheet width direction in response to shift information acquired by the acquisition unit. The alignment unit aligns a sheet staked on the stacking tray and moves to a position that abuts on a side edge of the sheet in the sheet width direction to align the sheet. The shift control unit controls a stacking position of a second sheet to stack the second sheet on a second position or on a first position depending on where a first sheet is stacked and on shift information of the second sheet. |
| US08662486B2 |
Door installation apparatus
An apparatus to assist with door installation, transport, and removal comprising a telescoping frame, padded guides extending outwardly from the frame and defining a gap of the width of a door, friction-reducing members, a step plate, and brakes. In a vertical orientation, a door may be slid into the apparatus. The guides can incorporate a clamp and a strap used to secure the door to the frame and permit selective pivoting between the vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation. The horizontal orientation facilitates ergonomic sawing when hinges are being applied to a held door; afterwards, the apparatus can be moved to a door jamb and changed to vertical orientation for positioning so the unattached sides of the hinges abut the jamb. A method of using the apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US08662484B2 |
Linear flexure bearing
This compound linear flexure bearing incorporates a simple but unique flexure arrangement which inherently allows stable long travel operation. The flexure arrangement passively constrains all degrees of freedom except translation along the bearing axis while also compensating for flexure foreshortening. This design permits large displacement, low operating stress, low operating force, and high stiffness in the five noncompliant degrees of freedom. The linear flexure bearing described herein has applications in precision mechanics, particularly opto-mechanics. Specific applications include but are not limited to wafer and reticle positioning stages used in microlithography systems, optic translation and scanning mechanisms used in tactical and spaceborne systems, as well as flip-in mechanisms used in multiple field of view optical systems. |
| US08662470B2 |
Dental syringe
A dental syringe may include a replaceable valve cartridge containing one or more valves which may use a seating surface and an opposing seating surface with a relative angle formed between the two surfaces. The relative angle allows for regulation of the flow of fluid. The replaceable valve cartridge may also include a system to remove a residual liquid from a tip of a dental syringe. Additionally, the replaceable valve cartridge may include a seal that prevents bleed-over of fluids. Further, the dental syringe may comprise a tip retention insert which may use either a pair of plates or a plurality of ball bearings to retain the dental syringe tips. An alternate embodiment of a valve may comprise features intended to reduce the force necessary to actuate the valve. A metering screw and/or flow-control groove with increasing depth may control of flow through the valve. |
| US08662465B2 |
Tiltable notebook-computer cooling pad with tablet-computer bracket
A tiltable notebook-computer cooling pad with a tablet-computer bracket is disclosed. The notebook-computer cooling pad has its bottom its bottom detachable assembled with a tablet-computer bracket that can provide tiltable and rotatable support. The tablet-computer bracket can work with the notebook-computer cooling pad to allow adjustment of a tilting angle of the notebook-computer cooling pad, or it can work independently as a stand-alone tablet-computer bracket that provides tiltable and rotatable support to a tablet computer. Thereby, the disclosed device can serve to not only maintain an operating notebook computer cool, but also support a tablet computer. |
| US08662462B2 |
Suspension apparatus and device using the same
A suspension apparatus includes a casing, a fixing member received in the casing, and a hanging portion extending from a first end of the casing. The fixing member includes two latches. First ends of the latches are rotatably connected to each other. Each latch includes a tab extending from a second end of the latch and extending through a second end of the casing, and an operation portion extending from the latch and extending through one of opposite sides of the casing. The latches to rotate relative to each other to drive the tabs of the latches closer or farther apart. |
| US08662461B2 |
Clamps for musical instrument stand
A clamp for a musical instrument stand is equipped with a pipe retaining section having a metal base section formed with an abutting surface having a cylindrical inner peripheral surface, and a metal fastening section formed with a fastening surface having a cylindrical inner peripheral surface that is opposite to the abutting surface of the base section, wherein the abutting surface and the fastening surface hold an outer peripheral surface of a pipe from one side and another side to retain the pipe, and the clamp comprises a pipe sleeve in a semi-cylindrical shape that is made of a resin material, and has an outer peripheral surface to be abutted to the abutting surface or the fastening surface so as to be mounted on the abutting surface or the fastening surface; and a recessed section that is provided in a concave shape in a portion of at least one surface among an outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve, the abutting surface and the fastening surface, wherein a predetermined space surrounded by the recessed section and a surface opposite to the recessed section is formed between the abutting surface and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve opposite to the abutting surface or between the fastening surface and the outer peripheral surface of the pipe sleeve opposite to the fastening surface. |
| US08662460B2 |
Weight adapter bracket
A weight adapter bracket is provided for a drawbar support frame having a cylinder coupling member for coupling to a hydraulic cylinder. The coupling member has a slot for removably receiving an end of the cylinder. The adapter bracket includes a lug which extends from a flange. The lug is removably receivable by the coupling member, and the flange is adapted to engage and support a weight. A coupling bore extends through the lug and bracket bores extend through the coupling member. A coupling pin is insertable through the coupling bore and the bracket bores and to releasably hold the bracket in the coupling member. A pin bore extends vertically through the bracket, and a further coupling pin is removably insertable through the pin bore. The further coupling pin is adapted to engage a weight which is mounted on the bracket. |
| US08662458B2 |
Infusion management system and holder
Provided are holders for compactly storing infusion management systems to surfaces. In an embodiment the holder apparatus has a head portion for receiving and infusion management system trunk portion and a foot for receiving an apex portion of the infusion management system. The holder apparatus may be mounted to a wall so that the infusion management system is compactly stored and then mounted against the wall, thereby dramatically decreasing the storage footprint of the systems when not in use, without sacrificing the ability to conveniently and rapidly deploy the system when needed. Also provided are infusion management systems configured for use with the holder apparatus and related methods of storing the system. |
| US08662456B2 |
Cable protection and guide device
There is provided an articulated cable protection and guide apparatus that can securely guide cables between a machine frame-side fixing end area and a machine movable-side moving end area without scattering abrasion powder of the articulated supporting members and the cables to the outside and that can be easily installed in the machine frame-side fixing end area and the machine movable-side moving end area. Connector units, fixed to the machine frame-side fixing end area and the machine movable-side moving end area, integrally retain articulated end portions of the articulated supporting member, cable end portions of the cables and slot end portions of the flexible belt member and seal the slot end portions of the flexible belt member. |
| US08662454B2 |
Method for visualizing track occupancy
A method of visualizing a track occupation in a train movement tracking and/or planning system for railway safety equipment for at least one train on the basis of a time-distance line diagram (TDL diagram) which is produced as computer graphics. In order to enable potential train routing collisions that are due to delays to be detected, the distance is displayed graphically as a function of time and of a further coordinate, characterizing a delay time, in a three-dimensional coordinate system. |
| US08662453B2 |
Relating to air-breathing flight vehicles
An air intake for a supersonic air-breathing flight vehicle introduces or injects fluid in order to create predetermined regions of separated flow and an attendant fluid shear layer. This shear layer forms an aerodynamic boundary for the capture flow with a profile determined and optimised by appropriate injection of fluid. The aerodynamic boundary so generated replaces mechanically moveable solid surfaces used to vary the geometry of prior-art intakes. Use of an introduced or injected fluid can provide an advantage of a variable geometry, but with reduced weight and reduced mechanical complexity. In some embodiments, the injection of fluid has the effect of re-energizing any ingested boundary layer, thus obviating the conventional requirement for a bleed system to provide boundary layer control. |
| US08662448B2 |
System and method for insulating frame member
There is provided an insulation system and method for a transport vehicle. The system has first and second frame members; a first rigid foam insulation member extending between the first and second frame members; a second rigid foam insulation member, where a first sidewall of the first insulation member integrates with a second sidewall of the second insulation member; and, a third rigid foam insulation member where the second sidewall of the first insulation member integrates with a first sidewall of the third insulation member. Each of the insulation members is surrounded by a protective layer. When the insulation members are integrated, the second and third insulation members impart one or more compression forces on the first insulation member and on the first frame member in order to secure the first insulation member in place without use of any fastener device. |
| US08662443B2 |
Shape memory alloy actuated torsion lock
A torsion lock may include a clutch, a spring, and a shape memory alloy (SMA) member. The spring may cause the application of pressure on the clutch for engagement thereof. The SMA member may linearly contract when heated in a manner to relieve the pressure on the clutch for disengagement thereof. |
| US08662440B2 |
AFT pylon fairing for an aircraft engine suspension system
This invention relates to an aft pylon fairing (30) for a suspension system of an aircraft engine, comprising two side panels (44) assembled to each other by inner cross stiffening ribs (46) spaced at intervals from each other along a longitudinal direction (X) of the fairing, and also comprising a heat protection deck (32) designed to delimit an engine core flow (36). According to the invention, it also comprises two longitudinal connecting walls (58) offsetting the deck (32) from the ribs (46), each of these two longitudinal walls (58) being provided with a first side end (62) fixed to one or the other of the two side ends (60, 60) of the deck (32), and a second side end (64) rigidly fixed to the ribs (46). |
| US08662439B2 |
System and method for limiting cyclic control inputs
A control system having a first loop configured to provide a longitudinal blowback value of a rotor blade during flight and a second loop associated with the first loop, the second loop being configured to provide a design maximum total flapping value and a lateral flapping value. A method includes calculating a flight control limit from the design maximum total flapping value and the lateral flapping value. An upper longitudinal cyclic control limit is calculated by adding the flight control limit to the longitudinal blowback value. A lower longitudinal cyclic control limit is calculated by subtracting the flight control limit from the longitudinal blowback value. |
| US08662433B2 |
Reel-in-box cable package
A communications cable reel package includes a box having a bottom, first, second, third and fourth side walls, and a top, wherein the first and second side walls are opposing side walls, and wherein each of the first and second side walls includes a slot with an open upper end. The package further comprises: an axle member mounted in the slots; a spool mounted on the axle member; and communications cable wound onto the spool. |
| US08662432B2 |
Ball tube mill trunnion seal
A trunnion seal assembly for joining a stationary inlet/outlet box of a ball tube mill to a rotational interior of the ball tube mill includes an outer ring component configured to be mounted to an outer wall of the stationary inlet/outlet box. An inner ring component is joined to the outer ring component substantially concentrically with the outer ring component. A flexible pad seal is configured to be joined to the outer wall of the stationary inlet/outlet box proximate outer ring component. The pad seal includes a first annular sealing surface. A mill head extension ring configured to be joined to a rotational mill head is located proximate to and substantially concentric with the inner ring component. The mill head extension includes a second annular sealing surface sealingly engaged with the first annular sealing surface of the flexible pad seal. |
| US08662431B2 |
Centering rolls
The present invention relates to a roller grinder comprising two rollers, each mounted on a separate shaft, a fixation means, a guide member, and a first and a second end member. A center of the guide member is rotatably attached to the fixation means in a position, which in a horizontal direction is located centrally between said rollers. Each end of the guide member is attached to a first end of the first and second end members, respectively, by means of a joint, such that both the guide member and the first and second end members can rotate around the joint, and the first and second end members, respectively, are rotatably attached at a second end to a respective one of the shafts. |
| US08662430B2 |
Conical reducing apparatus
A crusher device for performing a crushing operation, including a hollow part of frusto-conical shape narrowing downwardly, a crusher spindle rotatably mounted coaxial with the hollow part, at least one crusher impeller rotatably mounted on the crusher spindle, and a crusher driving device for rotatably driving the at least one crusher impeller relative to the first hollow part; the at least one crusher impeller comprises a first crusher impeller containing a first crushing blade and a second crushing blade, each of the first and second crushing blades extending radially from the crusher spindle and being fixedly connected to each other at their distal extremities by a blade member. The crusher device can be combined with a milling device providing an apparatus of compact size, adapted for reducing material from a size up to 36000 cm3 to particles having a size below 250 microns. |
| US08662429B2 |
Modular document destruction system
A shredder for shredding articles, the shredder includes a first cutter that provides a first stage of shredding to shred the articles and a second cutter arrangement that provides a second stage of shredding to shred the articles received from the first cutter arrangement. The second cutter arrangement includes a rotary cutter element rotatable to shred the articles into shredded particles and a filter having openings to enable the shredded particles below a predetermined size to pass therethrough. The shredder also includes an outlet allows shredded particles to exit therefrom and a vacuum that provides air flow through the second cutter arrangement for entraining and moving the articles and/or particles through the outlet. |
| US08662425B2 |
High-throughput, seed sampling and collection system and method
A system and method for preparing a sample of seeds or representative seed portions are provided. In various embodiments, the system and method include a force applying member and a seed container that includes at least one compartment containing a seed. The force applying member is configured to apply a force to the seed so as to break the seed into two or more seed particles, which in some embodiments may be collected in a seed particle collector. The present invention improves on the prior art by greatly reducing (and in some embodiments eliminating) the manual processes typically involved in generating tissue samples from seeds and preparing the tissue for genetic analysis. Additionally, the present invention is scaleable, and can be configured to generate samples from many seeds in a short period of time. The present invention also minimizes the risk of contamination and cross-contamination of the seed particles. |
| US08662423B2 |
Fuel-injector nozzle
A nozzle for a fuel injector, in particular for a gas-turbine engine, is provided comprising a planar conductive electrode with a sharp edge forming an aperture, an upper insulation layer above the electrode and a lower insulation layer below the electrode, both insulation layers having apertures, and a swirler arrangement for creating a swirling action in liquid fuel introduced into the nozzle. The axis of swirl is generally perpendicular to the plane of the electrode. In use, the swirling fuel passes through the aperture of the lower insulation layer, the aperture of the conductive electrode and the aperture of the upper insulation layer. As the fuel passes through the aperture of the electrode, the electrode charges the swirling fuel, so that the nozzle supplies charged droplets of atomized fuel from an outlet orifice. The swirler arrangement may be a radial or axial swirler arrangement. |
| US08662422B2 |
Apparatus for treatment of snow and ice
A vehicle is disclosed which includes a chassis and a storage and dispensing apparatus. The storage and dispensing apparatus can be mounted directly to the chassis or disposed within or on a body, which in turn is mounted to the chassis. The storage and dispensing apparatus has an opening therein to permit material to be transported therethrough. A conveyor assembly for selectively conveying materials from the opening of the storage and dispensing apparatus is also included. The conveyor assembly can include a dual auger arrangement. The vehicle includes a spreader chute that is operably arranged with the conveyor assembly to direct the materials to a spreader. A liquid storage system for storing liquid is provided. A liquid dispensing system is provided for selectively dispensing liquid from the liquid storage system. The liquid dispensing system includes an anti-icing system for selectively dispensing liquid from the vehicle and a pre-wetting system for selectively dispensing liquid onto material being transported by the endless conveyor out of the vehicle. |
| US08662419B2 |
Multifunctional spraying mineral water bottle
The invention discloses a multifunctional spraying mineral water bottle, including: an elastic deformation bottle, wherein there is an opening in the bottle; a bottle top, wherein the bottle top has a liquid-tight manner connection with the opening of the bottle and there is an axial through-hole in the bottle top; a sprayer unit that includes corner joint, atomization spool valve and nozzle, wherein the corner joint is composed by an fixed standpipe and a hollow tube that has an included angle with the fixed standpipe, and the fixed standpipe has a liquid-tight manner and interference fit joint with the axial through-hole of the bottle top, and inside the hollow tube has a cylindrical cavity wherein the cylindrical cavity holds the atomization spool valve and coordinates with the nozzle; the outer wall of the atomization spool valve has at least two water guide tanks, and there is an atomized tank corresponding to the water guide tank which is in the end of atomization spool valve corresponding to the end of the water guide tank; there is a spray hole which is coaxial with the atomization spool valve in the axial position of the nozzle section, and the spray hole is connected with the atomized tank. The invention not only ensures the drinking for mineral water, but also by squeezing the bottle to spray, so as to reduce the temperature around the human body, and to make the settlement by the combination of dust and mist, so that people feel more cool, fresh and comfortable. |
| US08662412B2 |
Advanced modified high performance synthetic jet actuator with curved chamber
The advanced modified high performance synthetic jet actuator with optimized curvature shape chamber (ASJA-M) is a synthetic jet actuator (SJA) with a lower volume reservoir or chamber. A curved chamber is used, instead of the conventional cylinder chamber, to reduce the dead volume of the jet chamber and increase the efficiency of the synthetic jet actuator. The shape of the curvature corresponds to the maximum displacement (deformation) profile of the electroactive diaphragm. The jet velocity and mass flow rate for the ASJA-M will be several times higher than conventional piezoelectric actuators. |
| US08662402B2 |
Securities, chip mounting product, and manufacturing method thereof
The invention provides an ID chip with reduced cost, increased impact resistance and attractive design, as well as products and the like mounting the ID chip and a manufacturing method thereof. In view of the foregoing, an integrated circuit having a semiconductor film with a thickness of 0.2 μm or less is mounted on securities including bills, belongings, containers of food and drink, and the like (hereinafter referred to as products and the like). The ID chip of the invention can be reduced in cost and increased in impact resistance as compared with a chip formed over a silicon wafer while maintaining an attractive design. |
| US08662401B2 |
Mobile payment adoption by adding a dedicated payment button to mobile device form factors
Embodiments presented herein generally relate to a novel mobile device containing a near field communication (NFC) component. In embodiments, the mobile device includes a payment user interface device. The payment user interface device may be a button on a keypad or may be an icon on a user interface. In embodiments, only after activating, by depressing or selecting, the payment user interface device can allow a user to use the NFC component. In embodiments, the NFC component is powered off until the activation of the payment user interface device. |
| US08662400B2 |
Outsert with variable data
The specification discloses an outsert assembly for pharmaceutical and other containers. The assembly includes an outsert, a tape holding the outsert in a folded configuration, and a machine-readable identifier on the tape. The machine-readable identifier may include e-pedigree information. The outsert may include printed dosage information and relevant medical warnings. |
| US08662394B2 |
Device for protecting an electronic component
An electronic system comprising a printed circuit having first and second opposite surfaces, an electronic component attached to the second surface and a first device of protection against access attempts on the first surface side. The system comprises a second protection device at least partially covering, on the second surface side, the electronic component, and comprising at least one tab. The printed circuit comprises at least one through opening, the tab extending in the opening and being attached to the printed circuit. The tab comprises at least one conductive portion electrically contacting at least one first conductive track of the first surface. |
| US08662391B2 |
Receiving and dispensing unit and self-checkout system
A receiving and dispensing unit and a self-checkout system of an embodiment includes a coin receiving and dispensing device which holds received coins in accordance with the denomination and dispenses the held coins, and a bill receiving and dispensing device which holds received bills in accordance with the denomination and dispenses the held bills. The bill receiving and dispensing device is arranged to overlap the coin receiving and dispensing device in the height direction of the coin receiving and dispensing device. |
| US08662390B2 |
Public transit system fare processor for multi-balance funding
An implementation of a system and method for processing transfer rides associated with at least one public transit network is provided. The system and method preprocess transactions to consolidate or eliminate unnecessary transactions with a financial institution clearing and settlement network. |
| US08662386B2 |
Method and system for controlling access to an enclosed area
A method and system for controlling access to an enclosed area is described. One illustrative embodiment is an access card reader and controller that is powered via a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) interface. The access card reader and controller may include a plurality of operating modes, including a network mode in which the access card reader and controller relies on an external access control server to authenticate received card identifiers and a standalone mode in which the access card reader and controller authenticates card identifiers independently of the access control server based on information stored locally in the access card reader and controller. In this illustrative embodiment, the access card reader and controller may also include a local tamper detector configured to detect when the access card reader and controller is being tampered with. |
| US08662384B2 |
Text message payment
A computer-implemented method of effectuating an electronic on-line payment includes receiving at a computer server system a text message from a payor containing a payment request representing a payment amount sent by a payor device operating independently of the computer server system, determining a payment amount associated with the text message and debiting a payor account for an amount corresponding to the amount of the payment request, and crediting an account of a payee that is independent of the computer server system. |
| US08662381B2 |
Dose counter for a metered-dose inhaler
A dose counter for counting doses of medicament dispensed by or remaining in a metered-dose inhaler. The dose counter includes: a rotatably mounted gear wheel having a circular arrangement of ratchet teeth; a display coupled to the gear wheel, the display having a visible array of dose counting indicia indexable in response to rotary motion of the gear wheel; and an actuator mechanism having a driver for rotatably driving the gear wheel in response to the dispensation of a medicament dose, the driver being arranged to engage the ratchet teeth of the gear wheel. The actuator mechanism includes a pivotally mounted lever having an input portion. The lever is arranged to amplify a linear stroke at the input portion such that a linear stroke of the driver exceeds the linear input stroke. By amplifying the stroke, the risk of undercounting due to insufficient stroke length may be reduced. |
| US08662378B2 |
Ventilation board, ventilation box, ventilation system, insulating board and method for manufacturing ventilation board and box
The present invention relates to a ventilation board, an insulating board, a ventilation system, and articles and architectural applications comprising said ventilation board and a method of manufacturing the ventilation board. The said ventilation board comprises a layer (11) provided with a first aperture (5); an adjacent layer provided (13) with a second aperture (7), the first and second apertures being located relative to each other such that they are non-aligned and are substantially without overlap; and a passageway (9) interconnecting the first and second apertures thereby permitting the passage of fluid therebetween. Therefore, the carton comprising said ventilation board when used for fast food packaging provides sufficient ventilation of the carton so that water condensed from food vapors does not run on to the food in the carton, and sufficient insulation so that the food in the carton is kept warm. |
| US08662374B2 |
Method for reduced cycle times in multi-pass welding while providing an inert atmosphere to the welding zone
This disclosure describes a method and apparatus for controlling the temperature of a welding zone for welding together pipe sections. The temperature is controlled by a flow of inert gas through the pipes. The inert gas flow is cooled and acts as a heat sink to remove heat from the weld zone thereby controlling the weld zone temperature. |
| US08662369B1 |
Barbed surgical staple
An exemplary surgical staple may include a base including a first end and a second end; a single tine extending from the second end of the base; and a barb extending from the base at a location between the first end of the base and the second end of the base. An end of such a staple may be frangibly affixed to a feeder belt. Another exemplary surgical apparatus may include at least one staple including a base including a first end and a second end, a first tine extending from the second end of the base, and a second tine extending from the base at a location between the first end of the base and the second end of the base. |
| US08662368B2 |
Wearable camera lens bag and laptop bag
Wearable camera lens bags and methods of constructing wearable camera lens bags are provided. Embodiments of the lens bags include neoprene panels that define at least one pocket for receiving a camera lens. The panels are stretchable for receiving the camera lens and snugly holding the camera lens within the pocket. The bag also includes a detachable flap that may be interchanged with flaps having other designs to a allow a user to reflect his or her sense of style. When properly worn, the bag ergonomically wraps around the body of the wearer for distributing the weight around the waist. A neoprene laptop sleeve is also provided that protects the laptop with minimal bulk. The sleeve is easily transformed into a shoulder bag via a shoulder strap that may be attached and then detached to return the bag to function as a sleeve. A removable flap may also be attached to the sleeve to allow a user to reflect his or her mood or style via the design of the flap. |
| US08662365B2 |
Hard-shell cargo carrier
A cargo carrier adapted to be removably mounted to a roof of a vehicle includes a body portion and an interior space defined by the body portion. The cargo carrier further includes a lid portion that provides access to the interior space. The lid portion is releasably attachable to the body portion by relative linear motion between the lid portion and the body portion. The cargo carrier further includes at least one mechanical fastening assembly slidingly engageable with a complementary fastening assembly, wherein the mechanical fastening assembly prevents relative motion between the lid portion and the body portion. Another embodiment of the cargo carrier includes a lid cover constructed to coact with a space defined by the lid portion and the body portion. The lid cover creates mechanical interference to prevent relative linear motion between the lid portion and the body portion. |
| US08662360B2 |
Liquid distributor and container provided with the liquid distributor
In a liquid distributor, a valve seat is hollow axially with a connection part in the lower end. The valve bonnet can axially move relative to the valve seat, and has a liquid outlet and a cylinder housing part. The valve plug is in a fluid outlet chamber, comprising a valve plug main body, a plug and valve plate part. The valve plug main body is hollow axially and the bottom with the inner wall of the central passage seals. The plug is molded in the head of the aforementioned valve plug main body and a transversal outlet is formed between the plug and the valve plug main body. The valve plate part radially extends and is molded in the upper end of the valve plug main body; the elastic piece is arranged in the fluid outlet chamber. The invention further discloses a container provided with the liquid distributor. |
| US08662358B2 |
Liquid dispensing container and method
A liquid dispenser including a container that has an interior adapted to support a fluid. The liquid dispenser includes an air vent that is coupled to the container, and a balloon that is disposed in the container and in fluid communication with the air vent to provide fluid communication between the interior and an exterior of the container. The balloon is movable from an undeployed state to a deployed state in response to a pressure change between the interior and the exterior of the container. The balloon in the undeployed state is incapable of fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the container, and the balloon in the deployed state has a position in which the balloon establishes fluid communication between the exterior of the container and the interior of the container. |
| US08662354B2 |
Sludge handling system with rotating discharge device for discharging sludge from a bin
A sludge handling system includes at least one bin that receives sewage sludge at an upper end thereof, and that has sloped side wall(s) at the lower end thereof, for directing sewage sludge toward a generally central discharge opening. A rotating discharge device is provided in the form of a thin foil or blade that is rotationally driven to scrape along the sloped side wall(s) of the bin, scraping sludge therefrom, to keep the sludge from adhering to sloped portions of the bin, and to direct sludge out the discharge opening. The rotating discharge device is mounted on and carried by a generally cylindrical rotating table that is motor-driven. A generally cylindrical seal is also carried by the rotating table, and slides along the inside of a sludge discharge chute, at the discharge opening of the bin. |
| US08662350B2 |
Storage container for dental adhesive
There is provided a storage container for a dental adhesive that allows a stable dropping operation during use of a dental adhesive and smooth fine dropping work such as strict control of an amount of drops with high reproducibility, and can prevent expansion of an adhesive stored in the storage container caused by a temperature increase. A storage container for a dental adhesive is used, including a cylindrical container portion that can store a liquid such as an adhesive therein, wherein one end surface of the container portion has a discharge port communicating with an outside, the other end surface of the container portion is closed by a bottom wall, and a tail portion is formed protruding from the bottom wall to the side opposite from the discharge port. |
| US08662348B2 |
Kit of parts for a module having a nozzle boot and a fuel dispensing unit having a nozzle module assembled with such a kit of parts
This invention relates to a kit of parts (1), comprising top plates (2), gable cover plates (3), gable structures each comprising a nozzle boot, side cover plates, and side structures (4) each comprising a nozzle boot (5), which kit of parts (1) is suitable for assembling a nozzle module according to any one of three configurations. The invention also relates to a fuel dispensing unit for refueling vehicles. |
| US08662343B1 |
Pressure vessel and method of use
The present invention provides a device and a method that minimizes or eliminates under-filling of a pressure vessel by integrating phase change material (PCM) within one or multiple component of the pressure vessel. In one particular embodiment, the inner surface of the pressure vessel comprises a PCM. During a gas-filling process, PCM reduces the rate and/or the amount of temperature increase. Reduction of the temperature increase in the pressure vessel increases the amount of gas filled during a gas-filling process. |
| US08662336B2 |
Bag scaffold
There is a bag scaffold configured to support a flexible bag in an upright and open configuration. The bag scaffold includes a first wall member having a first end and a second end. The first wall member includes a plurality of panels coupled to each other in series by an integral leaf spring. The first wall member includes a first coupling structure and a second coupling structure and is configured to be able to selectably couple to the first coupling structure. The bag scaffold includes a second wall member that is substantially identical to the first wall member and is selectably coupled thereto at their respective first and second coupling structures. |
| US08662332B2 |
Pasteurizable and hot-fillable plastic container
A blow molded plastic container for hot fill and pasteurization uses includes a main body portion that is shaped so as to be substantially round in horizontal cross-section and a base portion. The base portion is shaped to define a generally circular standing ring and an elevated push-up portion that is positioned radially inward of the standing ring. The push-up portion includes a central region, an annular, substantially straight and substantially vertical rise portion that is positioned immediately radially inward of the standing ring and a plurality of radially oriented waves. Each of the waves extends radially outwardly from the central region to the vertical rise portion and is preferably shaped so as to subtend a substantially constant angle along its length. |
| US08662331B2 |
One piece reversible closure and container system
A closure having a child resistant mode and a non-child resistant mode includes a circumferential side wall having an interior surface, a first section, a second section, and a solid divider. The solid divider is disposed between the first section and the second section for closing an opening of the container when the closure is installed on the container in the non-child resistant mode and the child resistant mode. In certain embodiments, a first liner is disposed in the first section such that the first liner is visible when the closure is installed on the container in the child resistant mode. A second liner is disposed in the second section such that the second liner is visible when the closure is installed on the container in the non-child resistant mode. |
| US08662327B2 |
Railway coupler core structure for increased strength and fatigue life of resulting knuckle
A finger core for forming the front part of a knuckle for a railcar, said finger core comprising a single opening to form a single rib at the horizontal center line of the resulting knuckle. |
| US08662326B2 |
Shelving unit
A knock-down shelving unit is composed of four identical short panels, each having a slot extending perpendicularly from the middle of one edge to an inner end half way across the panel, and at least four longer panels, each having three similar slots. The parts of the panels extending from the inner ends of the slots to the opposite edges serve as connecting elements. The panels are interlocked by engaging the slots and connecting elements to form a lattice. In the lattice, where an end of a panel meets the end of another panel, a tongue formed on the end of each panel fits a recess formed in the end of the other panel. In an eight panel shelving unit, only two kinds of panels are required. In a shelving unit composed of ten or more panels, only three kinds of panels are required. |
| US08662325B2 |
Shelving glide
A shelving glide includes a deck having a plurality of dividers; a first trough having a first index arranged along at least a portion of a width of the deck; a second trough having a second index arranged along at least a portion of the width of the deck; and a plurality of partitions defining a plurality of pathways. A partition includes a first clip securable to the first index; and a second clip securable to the second index. The partition is adjustable along the width of the deck from a first position to a second position upon disengagement of the second clip from the second index. The first clip is adapted to disengage from the first index upon disengagement of the second clip from the second index. The partition is secured to the deck at the second position upon reengagement of the second clip to the second index. |
| US08662324B2 |
Material organizer
An infant care organizational aid including a vertically extending and multi-sided body with a plurality of extending legs engaging a floor location. A plurality of clips extend from surface locations of the body and are configured to receive end extending portions associated with each of a plurality of individual holders in order to engage with specified clip locations associated with the body. Each of the holders are configured for supporting an infant related item or accessory including such as any of a formula holder, cup holder, bottle holder, toy box, diaper/clothes basket, spoon/utensil holder, cereal box holder and tray. |
| US08662322B2 |
Tool holder
A combination is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the combination includes a suspension bar, a tool holder adapted for attachment to the suspension bar, a hook device for suspending an object and a fastening device which enables the hook device to be releasably attached to the suspension bar. In at least one embodiment, the fastening device includes a first and a second portion for retaining engagement with the web of the suspension bar and its respective flanges. The first portion forms the upper portion of the fastening device, when mounted, to which portion the hook device is fixedly attached either directly or indirectly. The second portion of the fastening device is pivotally attached to the first portion by way of a joint, which, with the tool holder in its mounted state, is oriented parallel with and located between the flanges of the suspension bar. |
| US08662320B2 |
Theft deterrent system for product display device
A product display includes a wall member and a support surface coupled to the wall. Merchandise is displayed on the surface. At least one security support arm is pivotally coupled to the support surface and rotates about an axis. A security bar is coupled to the security support arm and extends over at least a portion of the merchandise. A warning device is coupled to the security support arm and activates to provide a warning as the support arm and the security bar rotate between a plurality of positions. The positions provide a multi-stage notification including a first position where no warning is provided, a second position where a first stage warning is provided, and a third position where a second stage warning is provided. |
| US08662315B2 |
Rotary fan press
A liquid extraction assembly for extracting liquid from a mass comprising a housing having an inlet and an outlet and a path therebetween. The housing includes a rotating screen adjacent the path. The housing can have a nozzle at the inlet. The housing can include an inflatable member providing a seal adjacent the screen for maintaining the mass in the path. The housing can include a center seal rotating with the screen and a fixed scraper in the path and adjacent the at least one rotating screen, with the center seal including a notch for accepting a tip of the scraper therein. The housing can also include side walls and an annular seal located between the side walls, with the annular seal defining an outer periphery of the path and having a rotating top end portion allowing an area of the outlet to change. |
| US08662313B2 |
Systems and methods for processing comestibles
In some implementations, a cooler reduces the temperature of pressed dough balls after the pressed dough balls have been baked in an oven. The cooler may include multiple cooling conveyors arranged in a vertical stack with adjacent conveyors transferring the pressed dough balls in opposite directions. The cooler may include a safety release turnaround between each of the adjacent cooling conveyors to move the pressed dough balls between the adjacent conveyors in the cooler. |
| US08662308B2 |
Substrate storage tray
A substrate storage tray that can be decreased in size for transportation. A substrate storage tray (1) for storing a large size substrate (20) includes a frame member (2) that includes a pair of first frame portions (5) opposed to each other and a pair of second frame portions (6) opposed to each other and has a frame shape, a substrate supporting member (3, 4) that has a plate shape, is disposed inside a region enclosed by the frame member (2), and is arranged to support one surface of the substrate (20), and extending portions (7) that are provided to middle portions in a long direction of the pair of first frame portions (5) and are arranged to widen a space between the pair of second frame portions (6). |
| US08662303B2 |
Packaging box
A packaging box includes a box body having a bottom board, side boards, and bending flaps; and a cushioning material having a bottom surface section and side surface sections. A restrainer is formed at least one of the bending flaps, the restrainer having a portion that is separated from and opposes the bottom board when the portion of the restrainer is bent into an accommodation space of the box body. A restrain portion is formed at the side surface section of the cushioning material opposing the restrainer formed at the at least one of the bending flaps, the restrain portion having a portion that is positioned at a side of the bottom board so as to abut upon the portion of the restrainer and that opposes the portion of the restrainer when the cushioning material is fitted in the accommodation space of the box body. |
| US08662302B2 |
Packaging for energy foods or other substances
A consumer package is disclosed that can be opened with one hand. The packaging can have a finger or thumb loop attached to a panel that allows a user to use a finger of the same hand holding the package to open the package. The finger or thumb loop can be designed to have strength and structural integrity to open the package rather than just to hold the package. The package can have a finger or thumb grip portion attached to the panel to open the package. The package can have a finger or thumb hold attached to the panel to open the package. |
| US08662301B2 |
Array of particular tissue products
An array of tissue products, and a method for providing a consumer with a desired tissue product, the array having a first group comprising: a first tissue product; a first package comprising an indicium representing the intensive property for strength or absorbency; a second group comprising: a second tissue product; a second package comprising an indicium representing an intensive property for softness; a third group comprising: a third tissue product; a third package comprising an indicium representing an intensive property; wherein each package has the same source identifier; and wherein the Softness PSU of the second tissue product is greater than the Softness PSU of the first tissue product and of the third tissue product. |
| US08662298B2 |
Magnetic edge closure cover
A mobile electronic device cover has a first cover portion with a first edge surface along a perimeter thereof. A second cover portion has a second edge surface along a perimeter thereof. A magnetic clasp has a first part in the first portion of the cover adjacent the first edge surface and a second part in the second portion of the cover adjacent the second edge surface. The magnetic clasp is adapted to magnetically hold the first edge surface meeting the second edge surface. |
| US08662295B2 |
Storing case for memory card
Each of areas surrounded by a plurality of main holders of a first case panel faces an area surrounded by each holder of a second case panel, at least partially. Each main holder includes a wall projecting toward the second case panel to prevent separation of a memory card placed in the holder. This structure enables a storing case to stably hold a plurality of memory card without enlarging the case. |
| US08662293B2 |
Badge holder with ejector
A badge holder for holding a badge includes a front piece and a back piece opposite the front piece. The back piece is coupled to the front piece to provide a holding slot for the badge. A first ejector has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is rotatably coupled to at least one of the front piece and the back piece. The first ejector is configured to rotate such that the distal end forces at least a portion of the badge out of the holding slot. |
| US08662292B2 |
Conveyor belt assembly
A conveyor belt assembly with a housing profile that protects components positioned in an interior of the housing from spilt products and is easier to clean than previously known conveyor belt assemblies. The conveyor belt assembly of this invention includes a frame with a sloped surface positioned under the conveyor belt such that spilt product that falls through the conveyor belt lands on the sloped surface and gravity pulls the spilt product off the sloped surface to a side of the housing for easy clean up. |
| US08662291B2 |
Telescopic belt conveyor
A telescopic belt conveyor includes a base conveyor unit (4), an outer conveyor unit (10) and optionally one or more intermediate conveyor units (6, 8). The outer conveyor unit (10) and any intermediate conveyor units (6, 8) are mounted on the base conveyor unit and extendable telescopically therefrom in an extension direction. The outer conveyor unit (10) includes a pivotable conveyor section (12) that is mounted for pivoting movement about a substantially horizontal pivot axis. A conveyor belt (14) is supported by the base conveyor unit (4), the outer conveyor unit (10) and the intermediate conveyor units (6, 8), the conveyor belt providing a conveyor surface that extends continuously along an upper surface of the base conveyor unit (4), the outer conveyor unit (10) and the intermediate conveyor units (6, 8). The pivotable conveyor section (12) has a free end remote from the pivot axis whose height relative to a ground surface may be adjusted by pivoting movement of the pivotable conveyor section. |
| US08662289B2 |
Glass substrate transmission device and method for detecting the rotational synchronization of driven shafts
The present invention provides a glass substrate transmission device and a method for detecting the rotational synchronization of driven shafts. The device comprising: multiple driven shafts, the multiple driven shafts are disposed parallel at intervals along a first direction and each of the driven shafts has a through hole at the first direction; multiple rollers fixed at intervals on the driven shafts for carrying a glass substrate, and rotate with the driven shaft to flow the glass substrate; a reflection; an infrared sensor unit emitting the infrared and receives a reflection light reflected back by an obstacles and emitted by the infrared sensor unit, and determine the rotational synchronization of the driven shafts according to the value of the intensity of the reflected light. The through holes and the reflection plate are located at the propagation direction of the infrared of the infrared sensor unit. By above way, the present invention can timely detect that if the multiple driven shafts rotate synchronously or stop rotating to avoid the glass substrate from scratch or break. |
| US08662287B2 |
Scraper for scraper chain conveyors
A scraper for a scraper chain conveyor, having a top web, on which a chain attachment region for connecting the scraper to a scraper chain is configured, and having scraper wings for guiding the scraper on side profiles and bottom of a scraper chain conveyor. In order to provide scrapers with which a higher conveying output or a reduction of the drive output to be installed can be achieved, and which also enable a worn or defective scraper to be changed below ground, it is provided according to the invention that the scraper wings consist of a holding portion anchored to the metallic top web and a plastics sliding insert which can be releasably fastened to the holding portion. For the sliding inserts and their retention, various embodiments are proposed. |
| US08662284B2 |
Item transportation
A method and apparatus are disclosed for locating at least one item of media at a desired location. The apparatus includes a first and further transport element for transporting an item of media along a transport path having a pre-determined plane of transport. The apparatus also includes at least one abutment surface that locates respective first and second lateral edge regions of the item or a central region of the item to a side of the plane of transport to provide an arcuate cross-section in at least a region of the item. |
| US08662283B2 |
Compact spring tensioner for belt cleaners
Compact spring tensioner devices are provided for biasing scraper blades toward a conveyor belt. The spring tensioner devices generally are constructed to have a reduced operational envelope and be reconfigurable for providing a selected one of opposite rotary bias forces. |
| US08662278B2 |
Sensor for checking value documents
A sensor for checking value documents, which has an illumination device for illuminating a value document, an imaging optic and a detection device. The illumination device of the sensor contains a multiplicity of light sources arranged side by side, which have emission spectra that differ from each other, and a microlens array with a multiplicity of microlenses. The microlens array and the light-source receiver are arranged so that when each of the light sources is arranged on the light-source receiver there is associated therewith exactly one of the microlenses. The measuring plane of the sensor is so close to a focal point of the imaging optic that the light of the different light sources emitted by the illumination device is largely imaged onto the same illuminated region of the measuring plane. |
| US08662277B2 |
Planetary gearbox with integral service brake
A brake mechanism includes a fixed housing in which the brake mechanism substantially resides. A plate closes the fixed housing and includes a cylindrical portion extending partially within the fixed housing. A parking piston and a service piston are employed to act against a brake stack which includes a plurality of stators and rotors interleaved together. A wear adjuster is press-fit onto the cylindrical portion of the plate and engages the service piston during actuation of the service piston and compensates for wear of friction material from the rotors or stators such that the distance between the service piston and the brake stack is substantially the same during the life of the brake mechanism. If neither the service piston nor the parking piston engage the brake stack prohibiting rotation of the input drive, the planetary gear set drives the rotating output drive with respect to the fixed housing. |
| US08662273B2 |
Dual clutch
A dual clutch for coupling an engine-side input shaft with a first transmission-side and/or a second transmission-side output shaft. A first clutch has a first pressure plate, which is axially mobile relative to a first counter plate, for coupling with a first clutch disk connected to the first output shaft. A second clutch has a second pressure plate, which is axially mobile relative to a second counter plate, for coupling with a clutch disk connected to the second output shaft. A clutch cover is connected to the first and second counter plates. An actuator displaces the first and/or the second pressure plate. The actuator is radially supported on the input side on the input shaft by the clutch cover and a torsional vibration damper, which is connected to the clutch cover and is radially mounted on the output side on one of the output shafts and/or on a transmission housing. |
| US08662271B2 |
Differentially controllable two-way clutch
A differentially controllable two-way clutch including an outer wheel with a cam portion on an inner circumference, an inner wheel arranged apart from the outer wheel and toward an inner diameter of the two-way clutch as well as rotatably and concentrically with respect to the outer wheel, a torque transmission member located between the outer wheel and the inner wheel to transmit torque, a cage configured to hold the torque transmission member and to be slidable in a circumferential direction and which is differentially controlled, and a spring supported by the cage and configured to be capable of biasing the torque transmission member so that the torque transmission member engages with a cam surface. |
| US08662267B1 |
Luggage for transporting children
The present disclosure generally pertains to articles of luggage that are integrated with child seats so that children may sit on the luggage articles during transport. In one exemplary embodiment, an article of luggage, such as a suitcase, has a retractable seat and a plurality of wheels. The retractable seat resides within a cavity in the luggage article when positioned in a retracted position. A user can pull the retractable seat from the cavity to position a seat back in an extended position. While in the extended position, a child can sit on the article of luggage and lean back against a back of the seat. The back of the seat or other component of the article of luggage can be pulled or pushed such that at least one wheel of the article of luggage rolls on a surface in order to move the article from one location to another. After moving the article of luggage in such manner, a user can push the retractable seat to return it into the seat cavity thereby retracting the seat back into the retracted position for storage. |
| US08662265B2 |
Energy absorber for aircraft
An energy absorber for aircraft, which includes one or more energy absorber elements and a housing, whereby the energy absorber elements can absorb crash impulses by plastic deformation within the housing. Thus, the load on the primary structure and the respective inboard devices is limited, which can lead to an increased, passive safety of the passengers and a weight reduction. |
| US08662264B2 |
Safety brake device with force store element
A catch device, for example in a safety device of an elevator mechanism, includes at least one first force store element and one second force store element having different force storage rates, and a displacement limit for the first force store element. |
| US08662261B2 |
Brake pad holder and brake pad of a disc brake
A brake pad holder of a disc brake, in particular for a commercial vehicle is provided, wherein brake pads assigned to both sides of a brake disc are held by a respective pad-holding spring in a spring-loaded manner in a pad shaft of a positionally fixed brake anchor plate or of a brake caliper. A pad-holding clip, which extends in the axial direction of the brake disc and is fastened to the brake caliper, is supported on the brake pads. The brake pad holder is designed such that the pad-holding clip has at least one limb which extends approximately radially with respect to the brake disc and enters into a recess of at least one brake pad. |
| US08662258B2 |
Bicycle having brake with quick release mechanism
A bicycle is provided with a frame, a drive member and a bicycle brake. The drive member is movably mounted to the frame for driving the bicycle. The bicycle brake is mounted to the frame. The bicycle brake includes a quick release mechanism that has an operating part and a contact part. The operating part is operatively arranged to be toggled between a closed position and a released position that is separated from the closed position. The contact part is provided on the operating part and configured such that the operating part contacts the drive member while the operating part is positioned at the released position. The contact part is configured such that after the contact part contacts the drive member due to operation of the drive member, the operating part is then moved from the released position to the closed position. |
| US08662256B2 |
Elevator control apparatus with car stop destination floor registration device
According to one embodiment, a response time calculation unit calculates a response time of each of the cars required when the car stop call is assigned to the car. An assignment control unit assigns the car stop call to the optimum car, based on the response time of each of the cars. A car load calculation unit calculates a load value of each car at the time when each car starts from a registration floor of the car stop call after responding to the call. A boarding possibility determination unit determines, for each car, whether the user can get on the car or not, by comparing the load value with a preset capacity value. A registration control unit performs control to assign the car stop call, including a second and later responses to the registration floor of the car stop call, based on a determination result of the boarding possibility. |
| US08662252B2 |
Leveling system for portable work platforms
A carriage assembly includes a carriage frame, a caster, and a first jack body coupled to the carriage frame and the caster. The first jack body has a longitudinal axis. The first jack body is configured to selectively move the caster with respect to the carriage frame along the longitudinal axis. |
| US08662251B2 |
Fall protection for personnel servicing an elevated work area from a man lift
Fall protection for personnel servicing an elevated work area from a man lift. A bridge is pivotally mounted to a working edge of the man lift. The bridge pivots between a stored position and a substantially horizontal operative position. The bridge has a pivotally mounted edge, a remote edge opposite to the pivotally mounted edge and opposed sides. An expandable enclosure is anchored to the man lift. The enclosure is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. In the collapsed position, the enclosure is collapsed parallel to and provides fall protection along the working edge of the man lift. In the expanded position, the enclosure provides fall protection for the opposed sides of the bridge in the operative position and provides fall protection in the work area by enclosing a portion of the work area beyond the remote edge of the bridge. |
| US08662249B2 |
Multi-layered sound attenuation mechanism
A sound attenuation mechanism made up of multiple substrate layers, including corrugated layers. The use of corrugation provides an inexpensive and manner of forming a plurality of highly effective acoustic attenuation channels throughout the mechanism. The multi-layered mechanism may be provided in a variety of modular forms and sizes which may be combined to form a low-cost, highly effective attenuation housing. For example, such a housing may be utilized to contain otherwise noisy large scale oilfield equipment such as coiled tubing engines. Additionally, where drainage from the housing is sought, a spiraled attenuation channel may be employed such that the effectiveness of the attenuation provided by the housing is not sacrificed. |
| US08662247B1 |
Bracket assembly for an audio loudspeaker system
A bracket assembly for an audio system that includes a mounting bracket slidably connected to a sub-assembly for attaching first and second loudspeaker enclosures of an audio loudspeaker system. The sub-assembly includes a plurality of vibration isolators disposed between a lower mounting bracket and an upper mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is attached to a first loudspeaker enclosure and the upper mounting bracket is attached to a second enclosure. First and second arms on the mounting bracket are inserted into first and second tracks on the lower mounting bracket to slidably attach the sub-assembly to the mounting bracket. |
| US08662243B2 |
Baseplate dampening pad
The invention relates to a sweep-type vibratory seismic source where a baseplate is put to the ground and a series of impulses are applied through the baseplate into the ground and where the baseplate may periodically de-couple from the ground during the delivery of the impulses. A de-coupling baseplate tends to undertake a very high frequency flexing while high frequency energy is being delivered to the ground. The high frequency flexing may be picked up by the vibrator control system and interpreted as an unintended signal being delivered into the ground. While there are already issues getting high frequency data in the return wave field, allowing the vibrator electronics to alter the actual signal in a manner intended to squelch the high pitched ringing of the baseplate is apt to reduce the high frequency data in the data record. One solution for reducing the de-coupling and the ringing of the baseplate is a dampening pad positioned between the baseplate and the ground. |
| US08662242B2 |
Vehicle steering system
A variable transmission ratio mechanism is provided on an intermediate portion of a steering shaft, and is able to change a transmission ratio between a shaft on the steering wheel side and a shaft on the steered wheel side by transmitting the sum of rotation of the first shaft and rotation of a rotary shaft of a motor to the second shaft. The variable transmission ratio mechanism is provided with a lock mechanism that restricts the operation of the variable transmission ratio mechanism. When the fact that a rate of change in torque that acts on the steering shaft exceeds a predetermined rate is detected, a period of time until the torque that acts on the steering shaft reaches a torque determination value is estimated. On the condition that the estimated time is shorter than or equal to a predetermined period of time, the lock mechanism is activated. |
| US08662236B2 |
Spring-and-damper assembly
Spring-and-damper assembly articulated at a front hood and body of a motor vehicle and has, in a cylinder, a gas pressure damper with a damping piston, a piston rod outwardly loaded by the gaseous medium through an axial opening in the cylinder and assists opening of the front hood. An actuator activated by a sensor device to adjust the front hood into a raised pedestrian protection position. The piston rod or the cylinder or a structural component part is axially adjustable relative to a supporting part supporting the assembly to be limited between stops. The structural component part or supporting part is a ball head supported in a joint socket or a joint head having a joint socket for a ball head connected at least indirectly to the piston rod or to the cylinder. The joint socket is formed so as to be groove-shaped in axial direction so that the ball head is axially adjustable in the joint socket in a limited manner. |
| US08662234B2 |
Drive and steering apparatus for an industrial truck
A drive and steering apparatus for an industrial truck with a drive wheel, which is rotatably suspended in a drive wheel suspension, which is swivel-mounted around a mainly vertical axis, a steering device, which has a handlebar and a bearing component, which is swivel-mounted coaxially or axially parallel to the drive wheel suspension, and a steering wheel control device, which has at least one sensor, which is permanently arranged with respect to the drive wheel suspension or the bearing component and captures a differential angle between the drive wheel suspension and the bearing component, and a steering drive, with which the drive wheel suspension is pivotable as required by the measured differential angle, characterized by a sensor arm, which is connected in a torque-proof manner with a sensor shaft of the at least one sensor, and a counter piece, which is permanently arranged with respect to the bearing component or respectively of the drive wheel suspension and works together with the sensor arm such that the sensor aim with the sensor shaft is rotated during a relative movement between the bearing component and the drive wheel suspension. |
| US08662232B2 |
Electric two-wheeled motor vehicle
In an electric two-wheeled motor vehicle including: an electric motor for generating power to drive a rear wheel; a battery for supplying electric power to the electric motor; a rider seat on which a rider seats; a housing box disposed below the rider seat; and a side cover covering the housing box below the rider seat, the electric two-wheeled motor vehicle configured to allow charging of the battery, an opening (118) covered with an openable and closeable lid member (120) is provided in the side cover (48), and a power-receiving-side connector (67) to which a power-supplying-side connector leading to an external power source can be inserted and connected is fixed and disposed between an outer surface of the side cover (48) and the housing box to face the opening (118). Accordingly, it is possible to eliminate the requirement for a rider seat to be opened in charging of a battery and thereby facilitate the charging work. |
| US08662231B2 |
Motorcycle
A motorcycle includes a body frame, a seat, a seat side cover, and a storage box. The seat is supported on a rear portion of the body frame. The storage box is placed below the seat. The storage box is covered with the seat side cover from an outside of the motorcycle in a vehicle width direction of the motorcycle. The lock mechanism is provided to lock and unlock the storage box. The lock mechanism includes an operation device to be operated by a user to at least unlock the lock mechanism. The operation device is mounted in an outer wall of the storage box. The seat side cover includes a cutout or an opening to enable the user to operate the operation device from the outside of the motorcycle in the vehicle width direction with avoiding the seat side cover. |
| US08662228B2 |
Free-to-lean three-wheeled passenger vehicle, power plant controller and body therefor
A three-wheeled leaning passenger vehicle comprises a frame rigidly mounting a passenger seat; a rear wheel rotatably mounted on the frame in a rearward region thereof; a frame-mounted rotary drive cooperatively coupled with the rear wheel for rotation of the rear wheel relative to the frame; and a frame-mounted coast/steer system including two front wheels freely rotatable relative to the frame in a forward region thereof, and a handlebar coupled with the two front wheels for turning the two front wheels in a plane defined by their rotational axes substantially parallel with one another to corner, the vehicle being configured to substantially freely lean left and right in a natural response to a driver thereof in the driver seat steering the vehicle and leaning respectively left and right, and, alternatively or additionally, to have controlled leaning in response to a hydraulically or otherwise provisioned front-wheel suspension subsystem. |
| US08662225B2 |
Built-in equipment for micro-hybrid device for automotive vehicle and micro-hybrid device comprising the same
A built-in equipment for a micro-hybrid device for an automotive vehicle, and to a micro-hybrid device comprising the same. The built-in equipment for a micro-hybrid device for an automotive vehicle of the present invention can be electrically connected to operational components of the micro-hybrid device and comprises a pack of super-capacitors provided with voltage balancing means and electronic circuits. The equipment comprises a housing containing a first compartment for receiving the pack of super-capacitors, and a second for receiving the electronic circuits and the voltage balancing means. |
| US08662224B2 |
Arrangement of electric part
A saddle-ride type vehicle, and arrangement of an electric part such as a controller for a saddle-ride type vehicle, can include a vehicle frame which has a left main frame and a right main frame which extend from a forward side to a rearward side of a vehicle body. An engine is supported on the vehicle frame, and a throttle body is disposed near the engine. An air cleaner is disposed adjacent throttle body, and a controller is provided, which is configured to control the engine. A support member supports at least a controller, with the support member being removably mounted relative to the vehicle body. The support member is separate from the throttle body and the air cleaner. The support member is typically disposed above the throttle body. |
| US08662221B2 |
Electric vehicle and electric supply arrangement for the same
In an electric vehicle, a power unit is installed in an internal space region of a tire of each of front and rear wheels. The unit has a plurality of power elements arranged on an inner peripheral surface of a ground contact portion of the tire. Each of the elements includes a core made of a permalloy, and a power coil wound around the core. When a periodically-changing magnetic field is generated in a region above a road by an electric supply arrangement installed in the road, each of the elements generates electric power. This electric power is supplied to a motor of the vehicle through a power distribution system. The motor drives front wheels. The electric vehicle can continuously run over long distances without charging a battery at a buttery station. |
| US08662216B2 |
Variable-width vehicle
A construction vehicle includes first and second track assemblies. The track assemblies each include an inner portion, and outer portion and a middle portion between the inner portion and the outer portion. An adjustment mechanism is pivotably coupled to the middle portions of the first and second track assemblies. The adjustment mechanism extends and retracts along a width axis to adjust a distance between the first and second track assemblies. The width of the first and second track assemblies can determine an overall width of the construction vehicle. |
| US08662211B2 |
Omnidirectional vehicle
An omnidirectional vehicle 1 includes: a main wheel 3 which is able to be driven in all directions; a base 2 which supports the main wheel 3; and a sub wheel 4 which is connected to the base 2 via an arm 15 and is grounded at a position apart from the ground contact point of the main wheel 3. The sub wheel 4 is attached so as to circularly move about the center of rotation of the main wheel 3. |
| US08662208B2 |
Downhole cutting tool, cutting elements and method
A cutting tool that has a leading or cutting surface that includes affixed thereto a plurality of irregular nine-faced polyhedrons or three-dimensional solid elements with nine faces, wherein each of the nine faces is a polygon and has a predetermined distance from each face to an opposing cutting edge and wherein the predetermined distance from each of the nine faces to its opposing cutting edge is equal for all of each of the nine faces, such that regardless of which of the nine faces is resting on a flat surface, the predetermined distance is the same. |
| US08662207B2 |
Rotary drag bits including abrasive-impregnated cutting structures
Rotary drag bits comprise a body comprising a face at a leading end of the body. An abrasive-impregnated cutting structure is located at the face of the bit body. The abrasive-impregnated cutting structure comprises abrasive particles dispersed within a matrix material. The abrasive-impregnated cutting structure exhibits an anisotropic wear resistance. The wear resistance varies at least substantially continuously within the abrasive-impregnated cutting structure. |
| US08662206B2 |
Apparatus and method for making boreholes in the ground, the cross sections of which boreholes partially intersect
An apparatus for making a second borehole in the ground, a cross section of which second borehole partially intersects a cross section of an existing first borehole, includes a boring device and a guide device operatively connected to the boring device. The guide device includes at least a first guide element configured to interact with a wall of the existing first borehole and a direction-influencing device configured to influence a direction of the second borehole while the second borehole is being made. The guide device is configured to guide the boring device relative to the existing first borehole. |
| US08662204B2 |
Core barrel restraint
A core barrel restraint adapted to prevent inadvertent dropping of a core barrel assembly during retrieval of a core sample can include a cup adapted to fit over an overshot and a brace adapted to be coupled to a core barrel assembly. A cable can connect the cup and brace and prevent the core barrel from falling if the overshot latch mechanism holding the core barrel assembly and overshot together fails. |
| US08662203B2 |
Method and device for creating a deep borehole
The invention relates to a method for creating a deep borehole, in particular in an emission-sensitive region, and to a device therefor. The invention is based on the object of providing a drilling method and a drilling device allowing deep boreholes to be created even in regions which are sensitive to emissions, such as inner-city buildings or in nature regions to be protected, and at the same time of reducing significant damage to these regions when creating deep boreholes. This object is achieved in that a shaft structure (20) is created, a stationary drilling system (10) is installed into the shaft structure (20), the floor (23) of the shaft structure is prepared as a drilling starting point and the deep borehole is sunk using a suitable drilling method. |
| US08662193B2 |
Method and apparatus to collect cores from golf green
A method to collect soil cores from a green comprises the steps of providing a soil core collector, extracting soil cores from a green, allowing the cores to dry for at least fifteen minutes, and utilizing the core collector to gather the cores from the green. |
| US08662190B2 |
Flow shaper for use in corridor sprinkler
A corridor sprinkler includes a first flow shaper member supported by a support for shaping the flow of fluid from a sprinkler that includes a shelf portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the shelf being generally parallel to and spaced from the axis of the flow passage through the sprinkler body. A shield extends directly from the distal end of the shelf and generally perpendicular to the axis and partially intersecting the column of fluid without the support obstructing the column of fluid between the discharge opening and the shield. The shelf and the shield can each have a diameter greater than a diameter of the discharge opening. A second flow shaper can extend from the support on an opposite side of the axis from the first flow shaper and partially intersecting the column of fluid. |
| US08662188B2 |
Wired drill pipe cable connector system
A technique facilitates the conveyance of signals along a drill pipe. A cable system is combined with the drill pipe and attached along the drill pipe to convey signals. The cable system may comprise a conductive cable, a cable retention system, a cable termination, and a cable connector coupled to the conductive cable at the cable termination. |
| US08662186B2 |
Downhole backspin retarder for progressive cavity pump
A backspin retarder for a progressive cavity pump deploys on the drive string uphole from a pump unit. The backspin retarder has a shaft that connects to portions of the drive string. An impeller disposes on the shaft and can move axially and radially. In an unengaged condition, the impeller and shaft can rotate relative to one another so the drive string can rotate in a drive direction without impediment from the impeller. In an engaged condition, the impeller rotates with the shaft in a backspin direction. In this way, vanes on the impeller can retard the backspin of the shaft and drive string by attempting to force the lifted fluid column flowing downhole past the impeller back uphole. The retarder can use a pin and slot arrangement or an arrangement of engageable teeth to engage the impeller to the rotation of the shaft. |
| US08662185B2 |
Active casing hanger hook mechanism
A subsea wellhead assembly includes a housing with a bore. A hanger is lowered into the housing, the hanger having at least one centralizing finger with a hook for engaging a corresponding hook an activation ring carried by the hanger via a shear pin. A load ring is carried on the hanger and supported initially within a recess formed on the exterior of the hanger. At the correct depth within the housing, coinciding with a shoulder on the inner diameter of the housing, the pin is sheared under the weight of the casing string and the hooks disengage to allow the load ring on the hanger to slide outward and create a path for the casing load to be transferred from the hanger to the hanger load ring, to a housing load ring, and ultimately the housing. |
| US08662184B2 |
Multi-section tree completion system
A subsea well production system for a well including a subsea wellhead. The system includes a multi-section production tree that includes a landing section engageable with the subsea wellhead and including a landing section bore. The tree also includes a valve section separate from and engageable with the landing section, the valve section including a lateral production port extending through a valve section wall and in communication with a valve section bore. A production tubing supported by a tubing hanger is installed and supported in the landing section bore such that the tubing hanger extends into the valve section bore. The tubing hanger and production tubing are retrievable through the section bores without disengaging the valve section from the landing section. The valve section is also disengageable from the landing section with the tubing hanger remaining in the landing section. |
| US08662181B2 |
Stabplate connections
A stabplate connection is provided by: providing a first part (1) comprising a stabplate and carried by an underwater structure; providing a second part (2) comprising a stabplate carried by tooling (4); engaging the tooling with said first part; using the tooling to bring the parts together so the stabplates mate with each other; using the tooling to lock the first and second parts together by engaging a portion (6) carried by the first part with a portion (10) carried by the second part; disengaging the tooling from the first part; and removing the tooling from the stabplate connection. |
| US08662177B2 |
Hydraulic fracture diverter apparatus and method thereof
A downhole apparatus positionable along a pipe string in a wellbore. The apparatus including a tubular structure having an outermost diameter greater than an outer diameter of an adjacent portion of the pipe string. A first end face facing a flow path in the wellbore, and at least one indentation or protuberance provided on an outer surface of the tubular structure. The at least one indentation or protuberance arranged to cause particulates in slurry within the flow path to collect and remain in a vicinity of the tubular structure. A method of diverting fracturing treatments in a wellbore is also included. |
| US08662176B2 |
Method of cooling a downhole gas generator
A method for cooling a downhole gas generator that includes a combustion housing and a plurality of annular cooling jacket segments. A flow of water is provided into inlet ports, and out of outlet ports, of each of the plurality of annular cooling jacket segments, for cooling the downhole gas generator. The flow of water into the inlet ports, and out of the outlet ports is regulated to provide optimal cooling of the downhole gas generator, and to also optimize the flow of water through the plurality of apertures of the combustion housing and into the combustion chamber, to minimize heat damage to the combustion housing. |
| US08662174B2 |
Radiation-induced thickening and radiation-induced triggering for set-on-command sealant compositions and methods of use
The present invention includes methods and compositions relating to the setting of fluids or slurries in a wellbore. In one embodiment, a method of isolating a portion a wellbore includes preparing a sealant composition having a fluid component, a polymeric additive constituent, and a set modifier component. The sealant composition is placed into a wellbore and subjected to ionizing radiation. The ionizing radiation can cause bonding between polymeric additive constituents and create a polymer matrix within the sealant composition that increases the mechanical strength of the sealant composition. The ionizing radiation also alters the set modifier component, triggering the thickening of the sealant composition. |
| US08662171B2 |
Method and composition for oil enhanced recovery
A process for enhanced oil recovery includes the steps of providing an alkali metal borohydride; providing an alkali metal bisulfite; combining the alkali metal borohydride and the alkali metal bisulfite along with water to provide an oxygen-scavenger composition; combining the oxygen-scavenger composition and an aqueous composition to provide an oil recovery solution; and introducing the oil recovery solution into an earthen formation at a pressure to provide for enhanced oil recovery. |
| US08662170B2 |
Cuttings transfer system
A cuttings transfer system including a separator configured to separate cuttings from a slurry and a transfer line configured to receive the cuttings from the separator. The system further including a valve in fluid communication with the transfer line and the separator, wherein the valve is configured to control a flow of the cuttings from the separator to the transfer line, and an air transfer device coupled to the transfer line that is configured to supply a flow of air through the transfer line. |
| US08662165B2 |
Fiber support arrangement and method
A fiber support arrangement for a downhole tool includes at least one tubular and at least one bracket positioning the at least one tubular spaced radially from a downhole tool and lacking contact therewith. At least two fibers are supported at the at least one tubular with at least two of the at least two fibers having a different helical angle from one another relative to an axis of the downhole tool. |
| US08662163B2 |
Rig with clog free high volume drill cutting and waste processing system
A drilling rig with rig buffer storage and optional surge tank for receiving and processing drill cuttings and waste made of a drilling rig, having a tank in a frame with an inlet and an outlet, a moveable weir for expanding to accommodate additional drill cuttings, a central sweep member for cutting the drill cuttings and waste opposite a peripheral outer ring with peripheral cutting members, a controller for controlling rates of flow into and out of the rig buffer storage and the central sweep member rotation via a motor with reduction gear and wherein a first transportation system moves waste from the well bore to the rig buffer storage and a second transportation system moves cut waste and cut drill cuttings to a post treatment system, a skip, or a vessel for transport to another location. |
| US08662162B2 |
Segmented collapsible ball seat allowing ball recovery
A series of ball seat assemblies preferably used to open a series of sliding sleeves for formation access to a zone that is to be fractured allows sequential shifting of the sleeves with a single ball. The ball is guided by a tapered member with a lower outlet larger than the ball. The ball lands on the segments that are initially supported. Some leakage occurs between the segments but not enough to prevent pressure buildup to shift the sleeves. The tapered member closely fits to the segments to minimize leakage. Shifting the segments axially allows them to retract so the ball passes to eventually land on a non-leaking seat so that the zone can be fractured. The ball is recovered at the surface after passing the retracted segments and going through the undistorted opening in the tapered member. |
| US08662159B2 |
Apparatus for isolating and completing multi-zone frac packs
A completion assembly for subterranean use from a surface in multiple zones that are gravel packed together has a plurality of screens spaced apart with tubulars that define an annulus around them in the subterranean location for receipt of gravel in the annulus. The annulus spans multiple zones and the annulus is isolated from the surface by at least one packer. At least one barrier forming chemical is delivered from the tubulars into the annulus that has been gravel packed. The barrier chemical forms a barrier with the gravel in the annulus between at least two zones. The tubulars comprise at least one opening located between zones. A straddle tool is insertable from the surface into said tubulars to isolate the opening for chemical delivery into the annulus. |
| US08662158B2 |
Vehicular air conditioning apparatus
In a vehicular air conditioning apparatus, a first partitioning member and a second partitioning member are installed at a boundary position between a first cooling section and a second cooling section of an evaporator. The evaporator is separated into the first cooling section and the second cooling section by the first and second partitioning members. In the case that air is not blown in either one of the passages that are disposed in the first cooling section and the second cooling section, air that flows through the other of the passages is prevented from flowing into the one passage through the interior of the evaporator. |
| US08662150B2 |
Heat exchanger media pad for a gas turbine
A media sheet for a heat exchanger is disclosed. The media sheet includes a first layer having a first outer surface and a second layer having a second outer surface. The first and second layers define a plurality of passages extending therebetween. At least one of the first and second outer surfaces comprises a plurality of depressions. The plurality of depressions further define the plurality of passages therebetween. The media sheet is polymer fiber-based and wettable. |
| US08662149B1 |
Frost free cryogenic ambient air vaporizer
A cryogenic fluid vaporizer using ambient air comprising a conduit through which the fluid is passed having an outer finned tubular sleeve which includes a thermal insulation barrier between the conduit and the outer finned tubular sleeve. A fan may be included to provide an increased rate of heat transfer from the air to the outer surface of the fins of the tubular sleeve. The combination of the externally finned area and the insulating thermal barrier prevents the information of ice or frost on the exterior surface of the fins during the transfer of heat from the ambient air to the cryogenic fluid providing a frost-free cryogenic ambient air vaporizer for continuous operation. |
| US08662147B2 |
Geothermal air-conditioner device
The present invention is directed to provide a geothermal air-conditioner device utilising the earth's temperature and electrical field for processing—preheating, cooling and purifying—room intake air. This air-conditioner device includes at least one first pressure reducing chamber (1) with air intake opening (8) and second pressure reducing chamber (2) with processed air outlet (9), whereas these chambers are connected to each other by air conduits (3) located in the ground for conveying air from the first pressure reducing chamber (1) to the second pressure reducing chamber (2). The earth layer (4) on the air channels (3) is covered by a coarse material layer (5), under which at least one first ventilation conduit (6) is extending, through which coarse material layer is connected to air in chamber (1). Likewise there is exhaust ventilation piping (7) to provide exhaust from the coarse material layer (5) located. |
| US08662141B2 |
Fabricated-in-place inserts to receive self-piercing rivets
One or more ductile metal inserts may be selectively incorporated into articles of limited ductility, including castings and molded polymers. The inserts are positioned at joint locations for joining of the article to other articles using self-piercing riveting (SPR). The inserts are of suitable ductility, thickness and strength to receive and retain self-piercing rivets and enable a strong riveted joint between the article and a second article. In an embodiment the articles are magnesium alloy castings formed by any of sand casting, die casting and semi-solid metal casting. The chemical composition of the insert may be informed by the anticipated corrosive environment of the joint and the casting temperature of the magnesium alloy. For magnesium alloy castings which may be exposed to corrosive environments, aluminum alloy inserts are preferred. |
| US08662140B2 |
Composite pull-chain disc mechanism with brake function and electric door operator incorporated with this mechanism
A composite pull-chain disc mechanism with brake function for a door operator comprises a torsional spring having de-twisting and twisting sides. The weight of a door curtain always acts on the de-twisting sides, so that the inner diameter of the torsional spring is induced to shrink to brake the rotation of the central shaft of the door operator. If twisting sides bears an external force, the inner diameter of the torsional spring is induced to enlarge to release braking of the central shaft. Furthermore, the composite pull-chain disc mechanism can be adapted to an electric door operator. In the case of detaching an electric motor mechanism during maintenance, the door operator can still be operated to open/close a door in a manual mode through the composite pull-chain disc mechanism. |
| US08662137B2 |
Attachment of an architectural covering
A system for attaching a shade material to a roller having recesses in its surface includes inserting portions of the shade material into an associated elongated recess and retaining the material in the recess with an attachment member having peaks and valleys along its length for intermittent engagement with the material within the recess. |
| US08662136B2 |
Anti-strangulation apparatus for, and hanging freely with, a looped cord of a window covering device
An anti-strangulation apparatus for, and hanging freely with, a looped cord of a window covering device. The apparatus includes a tube. The tube at first has the looped cord of the window covering device enter therein, then has the looped cord of the window covering device exit therefrom and run therealong, and then has the looped cord of the window covering device reenter therein again where the looped cord of the window covering device is reeved, and in so doing, the anti-strangulation device is allowed to hang freely with the looped cord of the window covering device and keep the looped cord of the window covering device snug enough against the tube to prevent strangulation by the looped cord of the window covering device, while allowing the looped cord of the window covering device to remain fully operational. |
| US08662135B2 |
String-guiding structure for a curtain-reeling device
A string-guiding structure for a curtain-reeling device substantially has a string-guiding frame mounted at an entrance of a string-guiding wheel assembly to limit the string extended from the curtain-reeling device inside the string-guiding frame and to be wound on the string-guiding wheel assembly when the string is released or collected. Therefore, the string-guiding frame depresses the oscillation and swing of the string during operation to avoid the string being jammed in the gaps of the string-guiding wheel assembly. |
| US08662133B2 |
Ultrasonic processing apparatus
In a ultrasonic processing apparatus, upstream conveyor and downstream conveyor allow a fibrous web to run in a machine direction continuously. Between the conveyors, a working surface of a first mechanical element serving as a stationary element of the ultrasonic processing apparatus extends diagonally with respect to the machine direction. The fibrous web runs in the machine direction above the working surface. The ultrasonic processing apparatus includes a second mechanical element adapted to move in a direction diagonally intersecting the machine direction. The working surface of the first mechanical element cooperates with the second mechanical element to subject the fibrous web to ultrasonic processing. One of an ultrasonic horn and an anvil is used as the first mechanical element and a remainder of the ultrasonic horn and the anvil is used as the second mechanical element. |
| US08662126B2 |
Double tread
Embodiments of the invention are used to provide ways of tire tread molding and retreading with a double tread rubber body having a unitary structure that comprises two treads in order to remove the need for buffing an oxide layer typically associated with tread molding and curing. Embodiments of the double tread molding and retreading methods also remove the need for cementing the cured tread to prevent future oxidation buildup. Once the double tread is cured and cooled, it is cut along the centerline with a double tread separation apparatus to expose a soft non-oxidized inner rubber. The cutting is much less energy intensive when compared to buffing with an expendable wire brush. There is no risk of spots of oxidized rubber being missed as is the case with buffing. There is little or no dust created. |
| US08662122B2 |
System for non-pneumatic support of a vehicle
A non-pneumatic tire includes a plurality of springs. Each spring comprises a first end portion, a second end portion, and an arching middle portion. Each spring is interwoven with at least one other spring thereby forming a toroidal structure extending about an entire circumference of the non-pneumatic tire. The toroidal structure is at least partially coated with an elastomer. |
| US08662120B2 |
Complete assembling of massive elements
A method for assembling massive parts that are useful for building wooden chalets or houses including timbers that are built in two by two, three by three, or four by four, connected through dovetailing, and, optionally, by gluing them together, to obtain massive laminated timber blocks. These massive laminated timber blocks can be filled to form panels. This method improves a process for forming massive wood parts, where assembling the timbers in the form of dove-tails allows the production of several depths without any limitation of length, since the additions are achieved according to an arrangement in quincunx. |
| US08662115B2 |
Fuel gas station, fuel gas filling system, and fuel gas supplying method
A fuel gas station, a fuel gas filling system, and a fuel gas filling method which can check whether information on temperature of the inside of a fuel tank is correct, so that a fuel tank is properly filled. The fuel gas station calculates a difference of temperature between a temperature of the inside of the fuel tank and a temperature of fuel gas to be supplied to the fuel tank after supplying of fuel gas for a predetermined length of time. When the calculated difference of temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the fuel gas station determines that the information on temperature of the inside of the fuel tank is abnormal, and reduces at least one of supply flow and supply quantity of fuel gas as compared to when such information is normal. |
| US08662110B2 |
Shut-off trim including spring loaded check valve
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a bi-directional shut-off trim for a valve which possesses the functional attributes of a pilot operated trim and a balanced trim through the integration of a spring loaded check valve into a pilot trim. In forward flow isolation, the bi-directional shut-off trim of the present invention acts as a normal pilot operated trim. In reverse flow, the check valve of the shut-off trim opens to balance the pressure on either side of the plug thereof. |
| US08662107B2 |
Switch device for water conduit valve
A switch device for water conduit valve comprises a valve body having a water inflow passage bifurcated to form more than one water outflow passage, a first water inlet and a second water inlet disposed between the water inflow passage and the water outflow passage, a magnetic valve switch device connected to the first water inlet and a manual control switch device connected to the second water inlet to provide a user to freely select controlling water flow that is introduced into the water outflow passage from the first water inlet or the second water inlet through any switch device. |
| US08662101B2 |
Device for inserting a shut-off device in a pipeline
A device suitable for retrofitting in laid pipelines is intended to be able to be placed and fixed in place in the pipeline. Transport of the device to the installation location is intended to be performed using as little force as necessary, and the sealing element is intended to be displaced without contact and thus without wear. To this end, the device, in the interior of which a shut-off device (6) is disposed, is designed so that an offset, conically tapering region (10) is adjacent to a front cylindrical region (3) and is bounded by a stop collar (12) on which a connecting contour (7) for a coupling piece of a drive element is connected. A sliding piece (13) made of an expandable material is displaceably disposed in the axial direction on the conically tapering region (10), comprising a circumferential groove in which a spring-loaded clamping ring (15) is supported. |
| US08662100B2 |
Tube clamping and closing device
The present invention provides a tube clamping and closing device which includes a main body having a first end and a second end, and a retaining assembly having several kinds of work portions and disposed at the second end of the main body. The first end has a first clamping member extending laterally and having a threaded hole extending vertically. A blocking member is threadedly connected to the threaded hole and adapted for closing an opening of a tube. The work portions alternatively define a clamping space with the first clamping member and the main body. Whereby a single device of the present invention can be used for different kinds of tubes or multiport valves. The present invention has advantages of operating conveniently, carrying and putting away easily, saving space and costs, etc. |
| US08662099B2 |
Valve shaft apparatus for use with rotary valves
An example valve shaft apparatus includes a shaft having a stationary seal and a dynamic seal spaced from the stationary seal. The stationary seal defines a first leakage detection area adjacent the stationary seal and the dynamic seal defines a second leakage detection area adjacent the dynamic seal. A seal leakage detector is integrally formed with the shaft to provide a visual indication of process fluid leakage within the first leakage detection area or within the second leakage detection area. The seal leakage detector has a passageway in fluid communication with the first leakage detection area and the second leakage detection area. The passageway has a cross-sectional profile that changes between the first and second leakage detection areas to prevent fluid from flowing from one of the leakage detection areas into a body of the fluid valve. |
| US08662095B2 |
Booth with inflatable canopy
A framework of uprights interconnected by rods defines a rectangular area to support an inflatable canopy. The canopy includes an interior membrane and an exterior membrane to define an envelope. A skirt depending from the canopy is secured to the framework to retain the canopy in place. A framework mounted air pump provides a flow of air to inflate the envelope. A framework supported pole engages and supports at least the interior membrane. |
| US08662094B2 |
Walking aid
Embodiments of walking aids, which may comprise a handle, a shaft, and a base, are described. |
| US08662090B2 |
Mascara brush
The present disclosure relates to an applicator for applying a composition to eyelashes and/or eyebrows. The applicator may include a brush comprising bristles and a core having a rectilinear portion from which the bristles extend, the bristles having free ends that define an envelope surface. The envelope surface may extend along a longitudinal axis that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rectilinear portion of the core, and may have at least one cross-section having a shape that is flattened along a mid-plane, the envelope surface defining at least one face that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core. |
| US08662086B2 |
Reclosable package with magnetic clasp for rolling papers used in smoking articles
A recloseable package for containing smoking papers to be dispensed therefrom, the package comprising: a body for holding the smoking papers, the body having a cover which overlays the body of the package for closure, wherein the cover has a first magnet, and wherein the body has a second magnet, the first and second magnets being positionally mounted to contact one another when the cover is folded downwardly over the body of the package for closure. |
| US08662082B2 |
Sterile drape
A sterile drape for a trackable medical device includes a reinforced film portion and a holding or tensing device. The holding or tensing device is operative to draw the reinforced film portion taut or smooth on or over a surface of the medical device. |
| US08662079B2 |
Cushion inside a cushion patient interface
A patient interface device that includes a mask shell and a cushion assembly. The cushion assembly includes a seal cushion and a support cushion. The seal cushion contacts a first area of a patient's face to form a seal therewith. The support cushion defines a second area over a face of such a patient when the patient interface device is being worn. The second area overlaps at least a portion of the first area. |
| US08662077B2 |
Anesthesia device, system and method
An anesthesia device supplying a first and second anesthetic in a quantitatively settable, controlled manner. A data processing unit with a corresponding display is set up for determining the current concentrations in the plasma or at the site of action from continuously supplied data on the quantities of the anesthetics administered with a module for a pharmacokinetic compartment model calculation and for storing these concentration values. Concentration data is predicted for at least one point in time in the future. An action module provides a curve of an anesthesia action parameter as a function of the concentrations of the anesthetics. A display module displays a diagram showing the sequence of concentration of the first or second anesthetic, and the predicted concentration. |
| US08662075B2 |
Dispensing device
An indicating device for indicating the number of dosages of medicament dispensed from a container includes a housing, a single indicator member nested the housing, an actuator and a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is periodically engageable with the single indicator member. The drive mechanism is operable to advance the single indicator member an incremental amount when the drive mechanism is engaged with the single indicator member. The single indicator member remains stationary and is free of engagement from the drive mechanism for at least some reciprocal movements of the actuator. A dispensing device and a dispensing system are also provided. |
| US08662073B2 |
Solar absorber module and solar absorber arrangement
A solar absorber module is described. The module has a housing with a longitudinal axis with a first tapered housing section with a first, free end, and a second end with a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the first end, and with a second housing section adjoining the second end of the first housing section with a substantially constant cross-section over its length. The module also has a ceramic solar absorber element accommodated in the first end of the first housing section with a first surface that can be oriented toward the solar radiation with an axis of symmetry, and a second surface lying across from the first surface, wherein the solar absorber element has a large number of substantially straight channels connecting the first surface to the second surface. The solar absorber module is accommodated in the first end of the first housing section such that the axis of symmetry of the first surface is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing. |
| US08662061B1 |
Crossbow with improved bolt retaining spring
A crossbow includes a handle or barrel having a bolt support surface, a forward end with at least one flexible limb, and a rearward end. A support on the barrel overlies at least a portion of the bolt support surface. A bolt retaining spring on the support extends toward the bolt support surface for holding a bolt on the support surface. The retaining spring extends from the support at a downward and rearward angle toward the bolt support surface and then at an upward and rearward angle to a free end between the bolt support surface and the support. The spring preferably is of one-piece construction having a first portion underlying and secured to the support, a second portion extending downwardly and rearwardly from a forward end of the first portion, and a third portion extending upwardly and rearwardly from the second portion and the bolt support surface. |
| US08662057B2 |
Working gas circulation engine
The working gas circulation engine includes a circulation route capable of circulating gas containing the working gas from an exhaust side to an intake side of a combustion chamber and resupplying to the combustion chamber and provided with a removing device to remove a product generated with a reaction from the circulating gas, a supplying device capable of supplying plural kinds of reactant gas to the combustion chamber or the circulation route, a pressure detecting device capable of detecting pressure in the circulation route, and a control unit that controls supply amount of at least one kind of the reactant gas to be supplied from the supplying device based on the pressure in the circulation route detected by the pressure detecting device, and performs pressure control to adjust the pressure in the circulation route. |
| US08662055B2 |
Engine system having failure-protected air shutoff control
An engine system is disclosed. The engine system may have an engine, an intake duct, and a valve disposed within the intake duct and movable between a flow-passing first position, and a flow-blocking second position. The engine system may also have an actuator configured to move the valve from the second position toward the first position, and a biasing element configured to move the valve from the first position toward the second position. The engine system may additionally have a sensor configured to sense an operating condition of the engine, and a controller. The controller may be configured to receive an input indicative engine activation, and to activate the actuator based on the input. The controller may also be configured to make a determination that the operating condition of the engine has deviated from a desired operating condition, and to deactivate the actuator based on the determination. |
| US08662052B2 |
Rotary piston internal combustion engine power unit
A power unit (14) which has a spark-ignition engine unit (1) of the Wankel type including a three flanked rotary piston (R) mounted on an eccentric shaft (63) rotating eccentrically within a cavity within a two lobed epitroochoidal inner peripheral surface (14), the cavity including an inlet port (7) through which air at ambient pressure is induced into the working chambers, and an outlet port (45) through which exhaust gasses are exhausted from the working chambers, and the power unit also including a rotary expander unit (4) which has a two flanked rotor (24) mounted on an eccentric shaft (12) rotating eccentrically within a single lobed epitrochoidal chamber (25), both shafts (62, 63) being coupled to rotate together, and the exhaust port (45) of epitrochoidal cavity of the engine unit (1) being connected to an inlet port (26) of the expander unit (4) so that the exhaust gasses from the engine unit (1) are further expanded in the expander unit (4). |
| US08662049B2 |
Cast piston having supporting ribs, and method for the production of such a piston
The invention relates to a cast piston for an internal combustion engine having a piston base, a cylindrical piston head connected to the piston base, and pin bores provided in an at least partially hollow piston shaft, which is positioned on the side of the piston head opposite the piston base. The piston has one or more supporting ribs located at least partially in the piston shaft, and at least one supporting rib has a recess on the side facing the piston base. |
| US08662047B2 |
Handheld work apparatus
A handheld work apparatus has an internal combustion engine (9, 9′, 9″) and a starter device (8). The internal combustion engine has a piston (10, 10″) which has at least one piston ring (37, 38). In order to avoid a delay when starting the engine, at least one recess is provided in the cylinder bore (26) which bridges the at least one piston ring (37, 38) in at least one position of the piston (10, 10′) and which has a distance (n, o, p) to all function openings of the engine (9, 9′, 9″) configured in the cylinder bore (26). To reduce the compression in the combustion chamber (25), the piston (10′) has only one piston ring (37) or two piston rings (37, 38) are provided having respective piston ring gaps (39, 40) defining an angle (β) which is up to approximately 45°. |
| US08662045B2 |
Cylinder head assembly for an internal combustion engine
A sealing system for the cylinder head valve seat pocket to valve seat insert interface of a cylinder head assembly comprises a valve seat pocket gasket compressed between a valve seat insert pocket and a valve seat insert having an active layer of material with at least one seal, defining a compression seal at the interface of the seal and the valve seat insert pocket, the valve seat insert or both, to thereby prevent the ingress of fuel or water between the valve seat insert and the valve seat insert pocket. |
| US08662042B2 |
Controller for internal-combustion engine
A controller for an internal-combustion engine 1 has an intake cam 13L for a low load operation and an intake cam 13H for a high load operation. The controller switches the intake cam used to actually open/close an intake valve 8 and changes the phase angle of each intake cam according to the load on an internal-combustion engine while the internal-combustion engine 1 is in operation. At a startup of the internal-combustion engine 1, the controller holds the intake cam 13H for a high load operation as the intake cam that actually opens/closes the intake valve 8, and changes the phase angle of the intake cam 13H according to the temperature of the internal-combustion engine 1 and/or the temperature of the atmosphere. |
| US08662041B2 |
Device for variable adjustment of the control times of gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine
A device (11) for variable adjustment of the control times of gas change valves (9, 10) of an internal combustion engine (1) having a hydraulic phase adjustment apparatus (12), a camshaft (6, 7), a volume accumulator (18), a first fastening element (14) designed separately to the camshaft (6, 7) and a central screw (13), wherein the central screw (13) extends through the phase adjustment device (12) and wherein one end of the central screw (13) contacts an axial side surface of the phase adjustment device (12) and a first thread (15) is constructed on the other end. |
| US08662040B2 |
Oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster having a hydraulic valve
The invention relates to an oscillating-motor camshaft adjuster having a hydraulic valve, which has two working ports. These two working ports each have a standard opening axially adjacent to one another and an opening for the utilization of pressure peaks as a consequence of camshaft alternating torques. A hydraulic pressure can be guided from a supply port to the working port to be loaded, while the working port to be relieved of pressure is guided to a tank port. In order to also keep the control performance high in the case of internal combustion engines with very greatly fluctuating camshaft alternating torques, it is proposed according to the invention that a position of hydraulic valve can be controlled proportionally, in which the pressure peaks of the working port to be relieved of pressure are blocked relative to the supply port and the working port that is to be loaded. |
| US08662038B2 |
Traction mechanism drive with a compensating device for vibration reduction
The present invention relates to a traction drive with a compensating device for vibration reduction of a driven shaft, for example a camshaft, a water pump shaft or an injection pump shaft of an internal combustion engine, having a drive wheel which is coupled to the shaft, having a drive means, and having at least one compensating mass which is relatively movable in the traction drive and having at least one actuating mechanism for moving the compensating mass. Here, the compensating mass is movable in or counter to the rotational direction of the shaft, and the actuating mechanism is formed as a tangentially acting actuator for moving the compensating mass. The invention also relates to a method for vibration reduction in a traction drive, having a driven shaft, a drive wheel and a drive means, wherein at least one actuating mechanism moves at least one compensating mass which is relatively movable in the traction drive, having the steps: activating the actuating mechanism, moving the compensating mass and generating a compensating torque at the driven shaft. In the case of a control drive with a camshaft adjusting system for the angular adjustment of the control time, the camshaft which is movable relative to the traction drive can simultaneously be used as a compensating mass for vibration reduction. |
| US08662035B1 |
Oil pressure control system for switchable valve train components
An oil control valve is disposed in fluid communication between an oil supply gallery and an oil control gallery of an oil control system. The oil control valve has a first position that prevents flow of oil from the oil supply gallery to the oil control gallery and permits flow of oil from the oil control gallery to a downstream drain line, and a second position that permits flow of oil from the oil supply gallery to the oil control gallery and prevents flow of oil from the oil supply gallery to the drain line. An oil bypass passage is disposed in fluid communication between the oil supply gallery and the oil control gallery, and is disposed to bypass the oil control valve. The oil bypass passage has first and second oil flow constriction regions, and an intermediate volume disposed between the first and second oil flow constriction regions. |
| US08662033B2 |
Modular engine assembly and fluid control assembly for hydraulically-actuated mechanism
An engine assembly may include a cylinder head and a fluid control assembly. The cylinder head may include first and second walls opposite one another and extending from a base region defining a cavity. The cylinder head may define a first oil passage extending through an interior surface defining the cavity. The fluid control assembly may include a first oil control valve and a first conduit. The first oil control valve may be fixed to the base region and may define a first port in fluid communication with the first oil passage and a second port in fluid communication with a second oil passage in the cylinder head. The first conduit may extend from the first oil control valve toward the first wall and may provide the fluid communication between the first port of the oil control valve and the first oil passage in the cylinder head. |
| US08662032B2 |
Cylinder pressure adjuster of a motor
A crank device and an adjusting device of a combustion engine. The system adjusts the cylinder pressure of the motor in accordance with the required power. Adjustment of the cylinder pressure takes place by changing the compression ration by means of the adjusting device (19). The adjusting device (19) changes an eccentric wheel (3) through an adjusting wheel (4) to a such position that a connecting rod (2) lifts a piston (1) to a desired distance from the combustion chamber head. The adjusting device measures the volume of the air entering the cylinder and adjust the compression ratio to be appropriate. The adjusting device also takes into account the speed of rotation so that the compression pressure increases or decreases to be appropriate. |
| US08662029B2 |
High-efficiency linear combustion engine
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed toward a linear combustion engine, comprising: a cylinder having a cylinder wall and a pair of ends, the cylinder including a combustion section disposed in a center portion of the cylinder; a pair of opposed piston assemblies adapted to move linearly within the cylinder, each piston assembly disposed on one side of the combustion section opposite the other piston assembly, each piston assembly including a spring rod and a piston comprising a solid front section adjacent the combustion section and a gas section; and a pair of linear electromagnetic machines adapted to directly convert kinetic energy of the piston assembly into electrical energy, and adapted to directly convert electrical energy into kinetic energy of the piston assembly for providing compression work during the compression stroke. |
| US08662023B2 |
Steam boiler
A steam boiler, comprising a boiler body accommodating water and steam therein and a burner throwing flames toward a central through-hole of the boiler body and water pipes formed to cross the inside of the central through-hole of the boiler body, and directly heated by the flames of the burner and an internal cylinder formed to cover the outside of the boiler body so as to form a space between the internal cylinder and the outer wall surface of the boiler body where burned discharge gas flows from the lower side to the upper side and an external cylinder formed to cover the outside of the internal cylinder so as to form a space between the external cylinder and the outer wall surface of the internal cylinder where air for combustion flow such that heat exchange between the air for combustion and the discharge gas is performed. |
| US08662018B2 |
Birdhouse or nest box
A Easy-To-Clean birdhouse that can be mounted at or above a person's reach includes a plurality of walls one of which is a front wall. The front wall includes an access hole for a bird and a tool-hole opening which extends from an inside surface to an outside surface of the front wall. A hinged floor having a top surface, a bottom surface, a rear end and a front end is pivotly attached about its rear end to two walls of the housing, the front end abuts the inside surface of the front wall, and the top surface is located below the top of the tool-hole opening in the front wall. Whereby, when a tool is inserted into the tool-hole and moved down, it will contact the top surface of the hinged floor and urge the hinged floor to swing down from a horizontal position to a vertical position. |
| US08662017B2 |
Pet litter
A pet litter composed of about 99.992% to about 99.998% by weight sand particles, which may be screened with a 20-50 mesh, and from about 0.002% to about 0.008% by weight of a thickener. In addition, the thickener added to the sand base to enhance the clumping properties of the litter may be digested by cats. |
| US08662012B2 |
Positioning system for at least one flexible tubular element connected to a cup-shaped member
A positioning system for at least one flexible tubular element (5, 6, 9) connected to a cup-shaped member (4, 8) includes a control unit (14) which is arranged to estimate an individually adapted release length of the tubular element (5, 6, 9) in response to information from a sensing unit (12, 13a, 13b) arranged to sense a parameter allowing estimation of the position of a teat of an animal. The control unit (14) is also arranged to control the positioning mechanism to adjust the release length of the tubular element (5, 6, 9) to the estimated individually adapted release length. |
| US08662011B2 |
Apparatus for carrying out plasma chemical vapour deposition and method of manufacturing an optical preform
The present invention relates to an apparatus for carrying out plasma chemical vapor deposition, by which one or more layers of doped or undoped silica are deposited onto the interior of an elongated hollow glass substrate tube. The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing an optical preform by means of plasma chemical vapor deposition, wherein doped or undoped glass-forming gases are passed through the interior of an elongated glass substrate tube while conditions for depositing glass layers are created in the interior of the substrate tube. |
| US08662010B2 |
Plasma processing apparatus, plasma processing method, plasma film deposition apparatus, and plasma film deposition method
A plasma film deposition apparatus (plasma processing apparatus) includes a second antenna 11b disposed around an antenna 11a and located outwardly of a ceiling surface. The second antenna 11b is supplied with an electric current flowing in a direction opposite to the direction of an electric current supplied to the antenna 11a by a power supply. Lines of magnetic force F2, heading in a direction opposite to the direction of lines of magnetic force F1 appearing at the site of the antenna 11a, are thereby generated at the site of the second antenna 11b. Thus, the magnetic flux density in the direction of the wall surface is lowered, even when a uniform plasma is generated over a wide range within a tubular container 2. |
| US08662009B2 |
Adhesive application apparatus
An adhesive application apparatus for applying a liquid adhesive to an object includes a regular application stage against which the object is placed for a regular application of the liquid adhesive to the object, a trial application stage to which a trial application of the liquid adhesive is carried out, an application unit relatively movable with respect to the regular application stage and trial application stage to carry out the regular application and trial application of the liquid adhesive, and a suction unit carrying out a suction operation of the liquid adhesive used in the trial application. The adhesive application apparatus smoothly carries out the trial application of the liquid adhesive without bothering the operation of an adhesive application line. |
| US08662008B2 |
Edge coating apparatus for solar cell substrates
A non-contact edge coating apparatus applies coating material to an edge of a non-circular solar cell substrate without physical contact. The apparatus may include a rotatable substrate support configured to hold the substrate. The apparatus may further include an applicator configured to receive a coating material and apply the coating material to an edge of the substrate while the substrate is rotated without any portion of the applicator physically touching the edge of the substrate. The substrate support may be mechanically coupled to a cam, which contacts a follower mechanically coupled to the applicator. A variety of coating materials may be employed with the apparatus including hot melt ink and UV curable plating resist. |
| US08662004B2 |
Balloon fill gauge
A balloon fill gauge for a balloon made of elastomeric expanding material has a base sheet with balloon filling indicia thereon that is temporarily tackable on to the balloon face material. An indicator tab with two ends having one end temporarily tackable onto the balloon material has its other end slideably interlockable with the base sheet. An indicator mark on the tab is alignable with the balloon filling indicia to indicate when the balloon is full as the tacked base sheet and tacked indicator tab move apart during the filling of the balloon. The balloon fill gauge alternatively may have an elongate non-stretchable indicator tab having two ends tackable onto the balloon material which physically acts to visual indicate when the balloon is full by snapping in two, popping off the balloon or changing color. Alternatively, the balloon filler gauge may include a base sheet with a balloon filling indicia temporarily tackable onto the balloon which is indexed with an expansible indicator ink mark on the balloon alignable with the filling indicia to indicate upon expansion of the ink mark when the balloon is full or the ink otherwise changes color. |
| US08661997B2 |
Method and sewing machine for forming single-thread locked handstitches
A thread can be captured surely by the thread capturing open eye of a needle and a stitch can be formed in the space within a machine bed. A handstitch on the front surface of a fabric workpiece and a locked stitch on the back surface are formed as a skip-stitch set by cooperation of a open eye needle (13), a rotary hook (200) comprising a rocking bobbin casing (205) loaded in a rotative outer rotary hook (202), and a thread draw out actuator (401). In the first stroke of the open eye needle (13), a stitch length feed of the fabric workpiece for handstitch is performed by a feed dog (601). In the second stroke of the open eye needle (13), an inter-stitch pitch feed of fabric workpiece for inter-handstitch is performed by a feed dog (601). |
| US08661996B2 |
Sewing machine auxiliary storage compartment
A sewing machine auxiliary storage compartment is provided that can be attached to or detached from a sewing machine body part and that allows small articles such as accessories to be taken out therefrom or put thereinto even during sewing. Upper and lower parts are attached slidably with respect to each other. The upper part 11 is provided with an attachment part 116 that can be attached to the sewing machine body part by its one end. The lower part 12 is attached to the upper part 11 slidably in a direction crossing a workpiece feeding direction when the upper part 11 and the sewing machine body part are attached together. A storage part 122 for storing accessories is provided in the lower part 12, which is located on the opposite side to the one end. |
| US08661992B2 |
Coal nozzle tip shroud
An outer shroud for a solid fuel nozzle tip includes: an top shell portion and a bottom shell portion, each portion fabricated from a preform produced from a single sheet of flat stock and each shell portion including a forward area and a backward area and outlet sidewalls, wherein a right outlet sidewall and a left outlet sidewall are each separated from the forward area by a rounded corner; and a left inlet sidewall and a right inlet sidewall coupled to the top shell portion and the bottom shell portion. |
| US08661990B2 |
Collapsible tray for fold-up chair
A tray apparatus is described. The tray apparatus includes a collapsible tray. The collapsible tray includes an inner horizontal support. The tray may also include a plurality of outer horizontal supports. The tray also includes a plurality of collapsible extensions. The collapsible extensions are configured to lock into a perpendicular position from the horizontal supports. The tray also includes a plurality of hinged connectors. The hinged connectors connect the inner and outer horizontal supports with the collapsible extensions. Additionally, the apparatus includes a vertical support. The vertical support is connected to the tray assembly by a tray clutch assembly. The tray apparatus may be attached to a chair. |
| US08661988B2 |
Railway truck having axle-pinned equalizer
A railway truck is disclosed for use with a locomotive. The railway truck may have a first axle with a first end and an opposing second end, and a second axle with a first end and an opposing second end. The railway truck may also have a plurality of wheels connected to each of the first and second axles, a first bearing assembly positioned at the first end of the first axle, and a second bearing assembly positioned at the first end of the second axle. The railway truck may further have an equalizer having a first end vertically supported by the first bearing assembly and a second end vertically supported by the second bearing assembly, and at least one pin connecting the equalizer to the first and second bearing assemblies and configured to transfer tractive forces between the plurality of wheels and the equalizer. |
| US08661983B1 |
Ring airfoil glider with augmented stability
In one embodiment, a less lethal munition including a ring airfoil projectile. The flight trajectory of the projectile has increased accuracy resulting from the aerodynamic stabilization of the projectile. In some embodiments, the projectile is both aerodynamically stabilized and spin stabilized. |
| US08661982B2 |
Adaptable smart warhead and method for use
A method for detonating a munition comprising the steps of providing a plurality of micro-detonators and microprocessors in said munition and initiating said micro-detonators in a predetermined sequence by means of said microprocessor. Depending on the specific predetermined sequence which is selected, one of a variety of explosive modes may be achieved. |
| US08661980B1 |
Weapon and weapon system employing the same
A weapon and weapon system, and methods of manufacturing and operating the same. In one embodiment, the weapon includes a warhead having an outer casing that forms an internal chamber and a dart within the internal chamber. The dart includes a main body formed with a non-explosive material and is configured to exit the internal chamber via an opening therein. |
| US08661978B2 |
Non-energetics based detonator
A detonator system is provided for use with explosives that utilizes two subsystems. A first subsystem functions as a non-explosives based detonator, which does not contain any explosives. The second subsystem is an initiating subsystem, which includes an initiating pellet. To set off an explosive event, the non-energetics based detonator is coupled to the initiating subsystem and the non-energetics based detonator is commanded to provide a suitable signal to the initiating subsystem that is sufficient to function the initiating pellet. Further, the initiating subsystem can be integrated directly into an associated explosive such as a booster that has been configured to receive the initiator subsystem without changing the hazard class of the booster. |
| US08661977B2 |
Shaped feed-through element with contact rod soldered in
A feed-through element of an ignition device for igniters of airbags or seatbelt tighteners is provided. The feed-through element has a metal support body, at least one first access opening in which a metal rod is arranged in an electrically insulating fixing material, and at least one second access opening in which a further metal rod is electrically conductively fixed to the support body by a soldered connection in this access opening. The support body and the access openings are configured as a shaped part. The feed-through element further includes a solder gap between the metal rod and the wall of the second access opening, where the solder gap has a small width. |
| US08661976B2 |
Method for controlling a rotary press and rotary press
A method is provided for a rotary press of the type including at least one cylinder for printing and feeding a web to be printed, and a device for driving in rotation the or each printing and feed cylinder.In normal operation, the at least one cylinder is driven by applying thereto a positive drive torque and a positive drive power, and, in the event of the web breaking, the at least one cylinder is braked by the associated drive device.According to one embodiment of the invention, in an emergency shutdown step, the torque or the power applied to the at least one printing and feed cylinder by the associated drive device is limited in such a manner as not to exceed a predetermined torque threshold or power threshold. |
| US08661974B2 |
Moving-out and adjustment device for screen
A moving-out and adjustment device for screens is revealed. The moving-out and adjustment device is applied to screen printing machines and having a frame, two sliding member and an adjustment mechanism. The frame consists of an upper frame and a lower frame. The two sliding members are disposed on two sides of the upper frame symmetrically and a screen is mounted between the two sliding members. Thus the screen is moved from a printing position of a screen printing machine horizontally by the sliding members. The bending and deformation of the screen can be avoided. The adjustment mechanism is arranged at the frame and having a first moving unit and a second moving unit. By operating the first moving unit and the second moving unit, the upper frame is moved in both the X direction and the Y direction in the X-Y plane in relation to the lower frame. |
| US08661972B2 |
Screw separator
A screw separator for separating solids out of suspensions, includes at least one housing and at least one feed pipe for the suspension, at least one discharge pipe for liquids, and at least one outlet for the at least partially dewatered solids wherein at least one strainer basket is provided in the housing in which a screw is rotatably mounted, and that the worm shaft of the screw terminates inside the housing and is continued by way of a separate pipe-like structure. |
| US08661970B2 |
Multi-well food presentation modules
Thermally convertible food presentation modules are described. A single module may be used for both heating and refrigeration of foodstuffs as desired at any given time. Any well of a module may be switched between heating and cooling of food regardless of the status of any other well of the module. |
| US08661969B2 |
Shelled egg staging device, method of storing shelled eggs and method of cooking shelled eggs
A food staging device particularly suited for shelled eggs, a method of storing shelled eggs, and a method of cooking shelled eggs are provided. The shelled egg staging device comprises an elongated body, individual receiving receptacles, a pour spout associated with each receiving receptacle, and a handle. The food staging device can be used to hold shelled eggs prior to cooking, for example. A method of storing shelled eggs in a shelled egg staging device is provided. A method of cooking the shelled eggs is provided and comprises containing shelled eggs in a food staging device and pouring the shelled eggs onto a cooking surface. |
| US08661965B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
The present invention relates to a piston (10, 110, 210) for an internal combustion engine, having a first piston component (11) and a second piston component (12), which jointly form a circumferential cooling channel (23) that is open toward the second piston component (12), whereby the first piston component (11) forms at least a part of a piston crown (13) as well as an outer circumferential wall (34) of the cooling channel, characterized in that the outer circumferential wall (34) of the cooling channel (23) has a circumferential projection (32) below the piston crown (13), which projection is provided with a circumferential guide surface (33) for coolant, directed radially inward. |
| US08661958B2 |
Device for manually perforating a sheet of aluminum foil and a method of use
A device and a method are disclosed for manually perforating a sheet of aluminum foil. The device includes a first member having a first surface with a plurality of apertures formed therein and a first guide member extending upwardly above the first surface. The device also includes a second member having a lower surface with a plurality of projections extending downwardly therefrom. Each of the projections can be simultaneously inserted into one of the plurality of apertures. A second guide member is formed on the second member and cooperates with the first guide member to permit the second member to move vertically relative to the first member. A sheet of aluminum foil can be placed between the first and second members, when they are spaced apart from one another, and the sheet of aluminum foil can be perforated by pressing the second member against the first member. |
| US08661957B2 |
Cutting devices
A cutting device includes a table for placing thereon a workpiece. A tool unit supports a cutting tool and is laterally tiltably supported on the table, so that the rotational axis of the cutting tool can be inclined relative to a horizontal direction. A positioning device includes a first positioning member and a second positioning member that can interact with each other to position the tool unit at a plurality of laterally tilted positions. At least one of the first and second positioning members can be moved to change the laterally tilted position positionable by the positioning device. |
| US08661954B1 |
Stock alignment gauge for a table saw
An apparatus for aligning stock to a blade of a table saw. The apparatus includes a substantially planar base plate, a guide slot bar coupled to a bottom surface of the base plate, and a stock alignment tool. The stock alignment tool includes a first substantially planar section having a straight edge and a second substantially planar section at a different height than the first substantially planar section, and the stock alignment tool is configured to be removably coupled to the substantially planar base plate to permit alignment of stock relative to the blade of the table saw. In addition, the guide slot bar is configured to be received within a guide slot of a table portion of the table saw. |
| US08661952B2 |
Cutting machine
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cutting machine capable of keeping an angle of a cutting edge constant. A support block 14 is provided with two arms 14a, 14b which are spaced at a certain angle, and the arms 14a, 14b have rotation shafts 12a, 13a of rotary whetstones 12, 13, respectively, extending upright from the vicinities of the front ends thereof. The rotary whetstones 12, 13 has, at front ends thereof, flat surfaces 12b, 13b perpendicular to the rotation shafts 12a, 13a to grind the one side 11b and the other side 11c of the cutting edge 11a of the cutting blade 11, respectively. The whetstone holding mechanism 15 can be moved linearly along the guide shaft 16 and can change over grinding states in which the flat surfaces 12b, 13b of the rotary whetstones 12, 13 into contact with the one side 11b or the other side 11c of the cutting blade 11. Even when the grinding progresses, since parallelism between the flat surfaces 12b, 13b and the one side 11b and the other side 11c of the cutting blade 11, so that the angle of the cutting edge is kept constant. |
| US08661951B2 |
Hand-guided power tool
A hand-guided power tool has a drive motor and a drive element connected to and driven by the drive motor. A working tool is connected to the drive element and driven by the drive element. A braking device is correlated with the drive element, wherein the braking device in a first state, in which the braking device is applied, blocks the drive element and in a second state, in which the braking device is released, releases the drive element so that the drive elements can rotate freely. The braking device has a brake lever and a sensor that detects the first and second states of the braking device. A control unit is provided, wherein an output signal of the sensor as a state signal of the first state or the second state is supplied to the control unit. The control unit, based on the state signal, controls devices of the power tool. |
| US08661945B1 |
Clamping ratchet wrench
A clamping ratcheting wrench is disclosed that is capable of being opened and closed without slipping the wrench over the end of a nut to be tightened or loosened. This wrench overcomes many problems because it may be used on a nut that is in a very tight position where a traditional wrench would not fit, nor would a conventional wrench be capable of ratcheting. The ratchet is effected by individual ratchet segments that are held in place when the wrench is opened. One of the true advantages of the various aspects is that the ratchet can be opened and closed once the ratchet segments are aligned, such that the segments are secured in place to allow the wrench to be opened up without having all the segments fall out of the wrench. A first aspect of the invention discloses an interlocking ratchet piece design, while a second aspect of the invention discloses another ratchet piece design with structural channeling to secure the ratchet segments in alignment so that the segments do not come out of the wrench. |
| US08661943B2 |
Four-speed drive system for motor-driven appliances
A mechanical four-speed gearbox/drive system for household appliances comprising two drive-outlets; each drive-outlet driven at two different speeds in the same rotational direction; a motor, motor shaft, first drive-outlet and second drive-outlet, with installation of one-way bearings in suitable places in the gear-train. The motor drives two drive-outlets and rotates in clockwise and counter-clockwise directions through three one-way bearings and two gear down systems to provide four different speed drives. When operating in hi-speed mode, the first drive-outlet is directly driven by the motor. When operating in lo-speed mode, the first drive-outlet is driven via the gear down system, with resulting increase in torque. Simultaneously, second drive-outlet is driven via second gear down system to provide two different speed drives. This gearbox is simple to construct and operable without expensive control electronics. In applications with electronic motor speed and directional control, much broader and practical drive-outlet speed ranges are achieved. |
| US08661942B2 |
Angle drive assembly
An angle drive arrangement for a drive train comprises an input shaft and a shift clutch. The input shaft can be driven about a first rotational axis. The shift clutch is arranged coaxially with respect to the first rotational axis and has a clutch input part and a clutch output part which can be coupled to one another to transmit torque. The angle drive arrangement further includes an angle gearing with a crown gear, which is arranged coaxially to the first rotational axis, and a pinion, which is mounted about a second rotational axis and which is in meshing engagement with the crown gear. The second rotational axis is at a right angle to the first rotational axis. The crown gear is fixedly connected to an intermediate shaft mounted in a housing by first and second bearing mechanisms, which are arranged on the same side of the second rotational axis. |
| US08661934B2 |
Bicycle brake lever
An actuator unit for a hydraulic brake mechanism on two-wheelers, comprising a housing fastened to the handlebar, a brake cylinder being arranged substantially perpendicular to the handlebar in the housing, a piston movable in it and a brake lever acting on the piston at an intermediate portion remote from either end of the lever, the lever being mounted at one end thereof to rotate relative to the housing, wherein the brake lever is mounted adjustably movable with respect to an axis substantially at an end of the lever, the axis being unchangeable in position but rotatably mounted to the housing, the adjustment option being provided for by the adjustment mechanism, wherein the lever, the adjustment mechanism and the axis rotate together relatively to the housing upon operation. |
| US08661931B2 |
Steering column assembly
A steering column assembly includes an outer jacket defining a through aperture and an inner jacket slidably disposed within the outer jacket. A plurality of steering shafts are movable relative to one another within the inner jacket. A frictional plate is disposed within the through aperture for selectively engaging the inner jacket. A radial force transmitting assembly is coupled to the frictional plate and applies a force on the frictional plate causing the frictional plate to engage the inner jacket. The radial force transmitting assembly includes a first cam member and a second cam each coupled to the frictional plate and each including a plurality of inclined surfaces facing one another. A lever is coupled to one of the cam members for rotating the other of the cam members for applying a force on the frictional plate to prevent movement of the steering shafts. |
| US08661929B2 |
Device for generating stiffness and method for controlling stiffness and joint of robot manipulator comprising the same
The present invention relates to a device for generating stiffness and a method for controlling stiffness, which can generate stiffness by using elastic members and can control the stiffness, and a joint of a robot manipulator to which the device and method can be applied. The device for generating stiffness includes a rotating shaft; a plurality of elastic members fixed to the rotating shaft; upper and lower circular plates that are disposed so as to be spaced from each other with the elastic members interposed therebetween, are independently driven with respect to the rotating shaft by power generating units thereof, respectively, and respectively have slits of which the number is equal to the number of the elastic members; and a plurality of moving members that are inserted into the slits formed in the upper and lower circular plates, respectively, and are connected to the elastic members so as to move. |
| US08661927B2 |
Cable re-ordering device
A cable guide re-orders a plurality of cables. A first guide plate has a plurality of first guide holes that receive a plurality of cables in a first order. A second guide plate has a plurality of second guide holes that receive the plurality of cables in a different second order. An intermediate guide plate is located between the first and second guide plates. The intermediate guide plate has a plurality of intermediate guide holes. Each of the intermediate guide holes receives one of the plurality of cables and causes a change of direction in the cable to facilitate the change from the first to the second order. The intermediate guide plate may further include cable passages to allow some cables to pass through without changing direction. There may be more than one intermediate guide plate. The cables may change from a generally linear to a generally circular arrangement. |
| US08661925B2 |
Hydraulically operated shifter for power take-off
A hydraulically operated shifter for use in a power take-off includes a shifter housing having an interior, a fluid port, and an opening. A shifter piston is disposed within the interior of the shifter housing and is movable in first and second directions. The shifter piston defines first and second chambers within the interior of the shifter housing. The fluid port communicates with the first chamber, and the opening communicates with the second chamber. The shifter piston includes a passageway that provides communication between the first and second chamber defined within the interior of the shifter housing. A shift actuator is supported on the shifter piston for movement therewith and extends through the opening provided in the shifter housing. |
| US08661919B2 |
Liquid sample heating vaporizer
The present invention is intended to improve response property and accuracy of temperature control of a liquid sample, and is provided with a vaporization tank that retains the liquid sample, one or more heaters that are provided in the vaporization tank and respectively have heating parts that come into contact with the liquid sample to heat the liquid sample, a temperature detection part that is provided in contact with an outer surface including the heating part of any of the heaters and detects a temperature of the outer surface, and a control part that receives a temperature detection signal from the temperature detection part to control electric power supplied to the heaters. |
| US08661917B2 |
Method for manufacturing piezoresistive material, piezoresistive composition and pressure sensor device
A method for manufacturing a piezoresistive material, a piezoresistive composition and a pressure sensor device are provided. The piezoresistive composition includes a conductive carbon material, a solvent, a dispersive agent, an unsaturated polyester and a crosslinking agent. The conductive carbon material is selected from a group consisting of multi-wall nanotube, single-wall carbon nanotube, carbon nanocapsule, graphene, graphite nanoflake, carbon black, and a combination thereof. The solvent is selected from a group consisting of ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, hexane, propylene glycol mono-methyl ether acetate and a combination thereof. The dispersive agent includes block polymer solution with functional groups providing the affinity. The unsaturated polyester is selected from a group consisting of an ortho-phthalic type unsaturated polyester, an iso-phthalic type unsaturated polyester, and a combination thereof. The crosslinking agent is selected from a group consisting of ethyl methyl ketone peroxide, cyclohexanone diperoxide, dibenzoyl peroxide, tert-butyl peroxybenzoate and a combination thereof. |
| US08661913B2 |
Method of measuring stress history and composite material containing cement as main component
There are provided a method by which a stress history of an object can be measured with high reliability if the object, which has temporarily been elastically deformed upon receiving an external force, recovers from the elastic deformation, and a composite material containing cement as a main component, of which a stress history can be measured with high reliability without reducing the strength of the material itself and without breaking the structure. To achieve the above-mentioned advantages, the method includes the steps of: acquiring an initial value of a twin density for calcite particles contained in an object to be measured that is elastically deformable upon receiving an external force; and measuring a history of stresses received by the object to be measured on the basis of a difference from the initial value in respect of the twin density for the calcite particles after the object to be measured receives the external force. The composite material includes calcite particles, for which a twin density is known and which are mixed to be distributed in the material, partially replacing an aggregate of the material. |
| US08661910B2 |
Capacitive sensor
A capacitive sensor for measuring pressure comprises a fixed charge plate integral to a printed circuit board, a flexible charge plate that is grounded, a conductive donut-shaped adhesive spacer between the charge plates, a lid, a non-conductive donut-shaped adhesive spacer between the second charge plate and the lid, means of providing a pressure, fixed or variable, to both sides of the flexible charge plate, wherein a microcontroller controls a power supply and provides a voltage to the first charge plate wherein the accumulative voltage may be measured as a means of determining differential pressure. |
| US08661907B2 |
Remote sensing
A plurality of sensors output information into a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) system via acousto-mechanical signals. The sensors are coupled to the optic fibre at the centre of the DAS system indirectly, the acousto-mechanical signal being transmitted via an intermediary body, such as the ground or a conduit. |
| US08661906B2 |
Ultrasound test device with improved alignment
The invention relates to an ultrasound inspection device for the inspection of tubular workpieces, where the ultrasound inspection device can be coupled to the workpiece by means of a fluid medium, so that sound emitted from a transducer unit hits an insonification point on the lateral surface of the workpiece, the workpiece and the ultrasound inspection device can be moved relative to each other, and where the transducer unit is pivotable on a pivoting line which corresponds to an arc of a circle whose center is formed by the insonification point. |
| US08661905B2 |
Non-contact microelectronic device inspection systems and methods
Non-contact microelectronic device inspection systems and methods are discussed and provided. Some embodiments include a method of generating a virtual reference device (or chip). This approach uses a statistics to find devices in a sample set that are most similar and then averages their time domain signals to generate the virtual reference. Signals associated with the virtual reference can then be correlated with time domain signals obtained from the packages under inspection to obtain a quality signature. Defective and non-defective devices are separated by estimating a beta distribution that fits a quality signature histogram of inspected packages and determining a cutoff threshold for an acceptable quality signature. Other aspects, features, and embodiments are also claimed and described. |
| US08661903B2 |
Machine with evaluation of the oscillation spectrum of a belt of the machine
A machine has at least two wheels (at least one of them driven) arranged on a base body and connected with a revolving belt. A transmitter and a receiver are arranged on the base body. The transmitter transmits contactless to the belt a transmitted signal having an oscillation frequency, with the receiver from the belt a reflected signal in response to the transmitted signal. An evaluation device connected to the receiver checks if the reflected signal received by the receiver satisfies an acquisition condition indicating that a speed of the belt is in a predetermined speed range. The evaluation device determines, if the acquisition condition is satisfied, a frequency spectrum which is based of the oscillation frequency and the reflected signal in the predetermined speed range and indicative of a mechanical oscillation characteristic of the belt, and generates a control signal based on the evaluated frequency spectrum. |
| US08661902B2 |
Method, apparatus and software for detecting yield in a mechanical structure by means of acoustic emission data from said structure
A method, apparatus and software is disclosed for using parameters of acoustic emissions emitted from an structure, such as aircraft landing gear, for detecting yield in the structure. |
| US08661900B2 |
Z-axis microelectromechanical device with improved stopper structure
In a microelectromechanical device, a mobile mass is suspended above a substrate via elastic suspension elements and is rotatable about said elastic suspension elements, a cover structure is set above the mobile mass and has an internal surface facing the mobile mass, and a stopper structure is arranged at the internal surface of the cover structure and extends towards the mobile mass in order to stop a movement of the mobile mass away from the substrate along an axis (z) transverse to the substrate. The stopper structure is arranged with respect to the mobile mass so as to reduce an effect of reciprocal electrostatic interaction, in particular so as to minimize a resultant twisting moment of the mobile mass about the elastic suspension elements. |
| US08661893B2 |
Prosthetic component having a compliant surface
A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component measures a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone, and at least one sensor. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. The sensor couples to the support surface of the first structure. The support surface of the first structure is compliant. The first and second structure are coupled together housing the at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the first and second structure are welded together forming the hermetic seal that isolates the at least one sensor from an external environment. The at least one sensor can be a pressure sensor for measuring load and position of load. |
| US08661891B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring the liquid level of molten metal
An apparatus for measuring the liquid level of molten metal including an image measuring device (5), a measuring probe (6), a lifting mechanism (1), a displacement sensor (11), an data processing system (4) and a correction marker(7). The lifting mechanism (1) is fixed to the molten metal container (10) or is independent of the molten metal container, the image measuring device (5) and the measuring probe (6) are installed on the lifting mechanism (1) or are independent of the lifting mechanism, and the optical axis of the image measuring device (5) is set at an angle with the geometric axis of the measuring probe (6), the measuring probe (6) is located within the field of view of the image measuring device (5), the image measuring device (5), the lifting mechanism (1) and the displacement sensor (11) are connected to the data processing system (4) respectively. A method for measuring the level of molten metal is also disclosed. The present invention is able to eliminate the influence by the slag layer floating on the molten metal and to achieve stably and continuously accurate measurement of molten metal level by using the measuring probe (6) inserting into molten metal through the slag-metal interface and having the slag thickness information after lifted. |
| US08661888B2 |
Method of studying rock mass properties and apparatus for the implementation thereof
A thermal disturbance of a rock mass is performed by circulating a fluid through a borehole, a temperature of the circulation fluid differs from a temperature of the rock mass. Before, during and after the thermal disturbance, differential electrical signals proportional to a temperature difference between two points along the borehole are registered by at least one pair of differential temperature transducers disposed along an axis of the borehole Differential electrical signals measured before the thermal disturbance are compared with differential electrical signals measured during the thermal disturbance and differential electrical signals of different temperature transducers positioned along the wellbore borehole are compared with one another. Based on the comparison results of different rock mass areas with different properties are identified. |
| US08661886B2 |
Valve stem grommet structure
The disclosed embodiments include a valve stem assembly for a tire pressure monitoring system sensor. The assembly can comprise a valve stem body, and a grommet for purposes of engaging a vehicle wheel. The valve stem body can comprise an attachment end to be attached to a pressure sensor to determine tire air pressure, and an air transfer end to receive a gas to fill the tire. The grommet can further comprise flanges with dimensions such that the grommet can limit movement of the valve stem assembly relative to the vehicle wheel. Methods for installing the valve stem assembly are also disclosed. |
| US08661883B2 |
Secondary air system diagnostic test
A diagnostic test for a secondary air system comprising an air pump, a first mass air flow sensor connected to the air pump and a first check valve connected to the first mass air flow sensor. A first testing phase is disclosed comprising a first delay period and a first testing period, wherein the air pump is activated. A second testing phase is disclosed comprising a second delay period and a second testing period wherein the first check valve is opened. A third testing phase comprising a third delay period and a third testing period is disclosed wherein the first check valve is closed. A fourth testing phase is disclosed comprising a fourth delay period and a fourth testing period wherein the air pump is deactivated. An optional fifth testing phase is also disclosed comprising a fifth delay period and a fifth testing period wherein the air pump remains off but the check valve is reopened and engine RPMs are increased. The diagnostic test further includes determining one or more failure modes of the system based on the output from the four or five testing phases. |
| US08661881B2 |
Hub unit for a high temperature electronic monitoring system
A hub unit adapted for use in a monitoring system that monitors engine performance parameters of a gas turbine engine. The hub unit includes a housing, at least one signal conditioning circuit board within the housing and adapted to receive the analog sensor outputs from the sensors, and a control circuit board within the housing, connected to the signal conditioning circuit board, and adapted to produce digital data corresponding to analog sensor outputs. The control circuit board and the signal conditioning circuit board each comprise electrical circuit components that define an analog signal processing path and have accuracy and precision characteristics that drift in response to component aging and to changes in the temperature to which the hub unit is subjected. The hub unit performs a continuous calibration scheme to determine and remove errors in the analog signal processing path resulting from the drifts of the electrical circuit components. |
| US08661879B2 |
Method for designing golf club and golf club
A designing method of the present invention includes the steps of: measuring a golf swing to obtain a measured result; obtaining a swing model provided with a link model and joint torque data based on the measured result, the link model having at least two links; performing simulation for swing the golf club using the swing model; and obtaining head information in a specific situation during a swing based on a result of the simulation. In the designing method, a plurality of specifications of the golf club and/or the plurality of swing models are used to obtain the plurality of head information, and stability is evaluated using a difference between the head information. In the designing method, it was found that a great lateral moment of inertia of a head and a small depth of a center of gravity of the head contribute to the stability. |
| US08661875B2 |
System and method to detect accumulator loss of precharge
Methods and apparatus for detecting a leak in a gas precharged hydraulic accumulator having an initial gas charge entail activating a hydraulic pump to charge the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator and the hydraulic circuit associated with the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator when the hydraulic circuit and the hydraulic accumulator have a temperature that is substantially equivalent to an ambient temperature, e.g., on a cold start. The hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic circuit is monitored, and when a step in the hydraulic pressure is detected, various quantities are measured and used to determine a volumetric efficiency of the pump for use in later calculations of remaining gas amount. |
| US08661869B2 |
Stretch forming apparatus with supplemental heating and method
A stretch-forming apparatus includes a main frame which carries a die enclosure between jaw assemblies. The die enclosure includes radiant heaters for supplying heat to a workpiece being stretch-formed against the die. |
| US08661868B2 |
Apparatus for twisting electrical bar conductors, in particular for bar windings of electrical machines, with conductor's clamping system
A twisting apparatus (30) of preformed bar conductors (25) for bar windings of electric machines comprising a twisting device (50) having at least a first (51) and a second body (52) coaxial to one another and extending around a twisting axis (Zt-Zt) defining an axial direction and respectively comprising a first (A1) and a second (A2) circular array of pockets. The twisting device (50) comprises a system for clamping bar conductors comprising at least one sliding clamping element (72, 92) movable in a radial direction with respect to the axial direction (Zt-Zt) to take up an advanced operative position in which it has an end portion (73, 74, 93, 94) that projects inside an associated pocket and a set-back operating position. |
| US08661867B2 |
Radioactive substance container, manufacturing apparatus thereof and manufacturing method thereof
In the metal billet to be used for hot dilation forming, a forward side with respect to the pressing direction has a quadrate section and its diagonal length is not more than an inner diameter of a container. Moreover, a backward side with respect to the pressing direction has a circular section and its diameter is substantially same as the inner diameter of the container. The metal billet is heated to a temperature suitable for press working and is set into a container for press forming. While a center of a workpiece of the metal billet is being bored by a boring punch to be operated by a pressing machine, the metal billet is hot-dilated so that a bottomed container for a cask is formed. |
| US08661865B2 |
Programmable cylinder lock and keys for the operation thereof
A programmable cylinder lock includes a stator and a cylindrical rotor mounted therein, having a keyhole and including inside the rotor key followers movable along the longitudinal and transversal directions, and locking pins movable along the longitudinal direction, the followers and locking pins forming together a number of pairs and having toothings for mutually cooperating to define the lock codification, the rotor including a stop bar cooperating with a longitudinal groove of the stator and cooperating with the locking pins, and a change bar slidingly coupled with the followers to keep them engaged with the pins and disengage them therefrom when the bar provides a lock programming position. The bar has projections facing the keyhole, and the use key has corresponding recesses to face the projections when correctly inserted in the lock, whereas the change key has a longitudinal groove extending in a position corresponding to the use key recesses. |
| US08661860B2 |
Door bowl for a household appliance door
A glass bowl for a door assembly of a washer including a housing, a tub inside the housing, the tub having a rotating drum, the door assembly having a see-through portion for viewing into the tub, the see-through portion including the glass bowl, the door assembly pivotably coupled to the housing and movable between an open and closed position. The glass bowl includes a base portion for securing the glass bowl to the door assembly, and a bowl portion configured to extend into the interior of the housing, wherein the bowl portion includes a sidewall extending from the base portion toward the interior of the housing, a first bowl face that faces toward the interior of the housing and an indentation formed in an upper surface of the sidewall that guides at least a portion of water or washing fluid flowing downward onto the glass bowl toward the rotating drum. |
| US08661859B2 |
Door lock device of drum washing machine and washing machine having the same
Disclosed herein are a door lock device of a drum washing machine and a drum washing machine having the same, a door of which is opened by force of a predetermined magnitude or greater. The door opening is accomplished by providing a door lever of the door lock device with a bent portion. The bent portion formed at the door lever creates a predetermined angle X° between a contact point between a holding protrusion of the door lever and a raised portion of a body of the washing machine, a center point of a door lever shaft, and a contact point between a handle contact portion of the door lever and a door handle, allowing the door to be opened upon receiving force of a predetermined magnitude or greater. |
| US08661858B2 |
Laundry treatment machine
A home laundry machine (1) having an outer casing (2) and, inside said casing (2), a laundry container (3, 5) for housing the laundry to be dried, and a steam generator (15) for feeding a given amount of steam into the laundry container (3, 5), and which in turn has a tubular vaporizer (16) containing a given amount of water; a heater (19) for boiling and converting the water in said tubular vaporizer (16) into steam; and a steam exhaust pipe (20) for feeding the steam produced in the tubular vaporizer (16) into the laundry container (3, 5), and which has at least one tubular portion (20a) contacting the heater (19), so that the steam flowing along the tubular portion (20a) receives a certain amount of heat from said heater (19). |
| US08661856B2 |
Manufacturing method of optical fiber
In an optical fiber manufacturing method, the cooling device and the coating device are connected in an airtight manner and by preventing a cooling gas, flowing inside the cooling device, from flowing into the coating device by a meniscus of resin inside of the coating device, a flow of the cooling gas inside the cooling device is discharged to an outside of an upper end of the cooling device as an upward stream; helium gas as the cooling gas flows into a lower portion of the cooling device and carbon dioxide gas as the cooling gas which is separated from the helium gas flows into a side lower than a position where the helium gas flows in, during the forcible cooling; and a flow rate of the helium gas and a flow rate of the carbon dioxide gas are individually controlled. |
| US08661849B2 |
Deciduous teeth matrix jewelry and method of manufacture
The invention discloses jewelry made of disinfected, pulverized and chemically bonded primary teeth. The teeth are pulverized into two or more parts, located in a mold, and bonded with a bonding agent to form a tooth matrix that is shaped for connection to a jewelry frame. In another embodiment, a hollow interior of a deciduous tooth is filled with a bonding agent. The tooth is positioned in a mold with other tooth particles and bonded to form the tooth matrix. In another embodiment, the hollow interior and/or occlusal of a deciduous tooth is filled with a bonding agent to form a tooth matrix for mounting on a jewelry frame. A display side of the tooth is positioned adjacent to a display surface in a mold. A bonding agent fills the space between the tooth and the mold to form a solid tooth matrix. The solidified tooth matrix is machinable. |
| US08661847B2 |
Production of a clean gas, in particular for testing a pressurized construction component for leaks
A process is described for producing a clean gas, which is provided, in particular, for testing a pressurized construction component (100) for leaks, which process includes the steps of providing a liquefied gas mixture (1) which contains the clean gas (2) and at least one foreign gas (3) in a gas separation unit (20), enriching the clean gas (2), wherein the at least one foreign gas (3) is transferred to a surface region of the liquefied gas mixture (1), and taking off the enriched clean gas (2), wherein the enriched clean gas (2) flows out of a volume region of the gas separation unit (20) via a guide unit (22), and wherein a foreign gas barrier (23) is formed at the guide unit (22), using which the foreign gas (3) in the liquefied gas mixture (1) is passed out from an opening in the guide unit (22). A device for producing a clean gas, a noble-gas-free gas composition and a process for testing a construction component pressurized with a test gas for leaks are also described. |
| US08661841B2 |
Auger style ice maker and refrigeration appliance incorporating same
An ice making assembly includes a support and a mold rotatably mounted to the support configured for forming an ice cube therein. The mold has a base, a side wall attached to the base, and an opening in the side wall spaced from the base. An auger has a shaft with a proximal end fixed to the base of the mold, a distal end outside of the mold, and a central section between the proximal end and the distal end and extending through the opening. The auger also has a threaded portion. An inner mold is non-rotatably fixed to the support and extends into the mold. The inner mold defines an outer shape of the ice cube. The inner mold has at least one wall non-concentric with reference to a center line of the auger. A motor rotates the mold and auger relative to the support and inner mold. The inner mold is configured to prevent the ice cube from rotating with the mold and auger, the auger thereby moving the ice cube out of the mold and the inner mold via the opening. |
| US08661839B2 |
Background tank fill based on refrigerant composition
A portable recovery unit for automatically filling a background tank of blended refrigerant includes a main tank for holding recovered refrigerant from a vehicle A/C system which has a first chemical composition, and an auxiliary tank for holding an auxiliary supply of fresh refrigerant which has a second refrigerant composition. The auxiliary tank is arranged in fluid communication with the main tank so that fluid can be transferred from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. An electronic controller controls the flow of fluid from the auxiliary tank to the main tank. A refrigerant identifier is coupled to the main tank to sample and analyze the refrigerant in the main tank in order to determine the chemical composition of the refrigerant in the main tank, so the refrigerant in the main tank can be purified to an acceptable level based on that analysis. |
| US08661834B2 |
Method and apparatus for starting engine
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for starting an engine which can decrease the amount of compressed air consumed by air motors and can lessen an increase in a size of a compressed air tank and an increase in a size of an air compressor, and in a method of starting an engine using a plurality of air motors, the number of air motors being operative is decreased before the engine can start increasing its engine speed for itself, at starting. That is, during increasing of the engine speed of the engine at the starting, the number of air motors being operative is decreased from, for example, two to one. |
| US08661827B2 |
Plates having cooling channels, and method for welding the plates and increasing a dimension of the cooling channels adjacent the welded section
A plate-like-object manufacturing method, plate-like objects, a gas-turbine combustor, and a gas turbine, in which degradation in the cooling performance can be suppressed, the time required for manufacturing a gas-turbine combustor can be shortened, and deterioration of the working environment can be prevented are provided. A plate-like-object manufacturing method includes a step of forming a plate-like object by stacking a plurality of plates and arranging a plurality of channels, through which a cooling medium flows, side-by-side between the plurality of plates; and a step of arranging a plurality of the plate-like objects side-by-side in a direction in which the channels are arranged, butting the plurality of plate-like objects against each other, and performing welding at an abutment section. The channels adjacent to the abutment section extend along the abutment section and have a greater dimension in the direction in which the channels are arranged, as compared with that of other channels. |
| US08661826B2 |
Combustion apparatus
A coated turbine engine article having a first wall and a second wall, wherein the first wall has a shielding feature integral with the article and which inhibits entry of a coating material into an open passage extending between the first wall and the second wall when the coating material is directed towards the article using a line of sight process. |
| US08661822B2 |
Acoustically stiffened gas turbine combustor supply
In one embodiment, a system includes a variable geometry resonator configured to couple to a fluid path upstream from a combustor of a turbine engine. The variable geometry resonator is configured to dampen pressure oscillations in the fluid path and the combustor. |
| US08661821B2 |
Process for reducing coal consumption in coal fired power plant with fluidized-bed drying
The present invention relates to a process for reducing coal consumption in coal fired plant with fluidized-bed drying, namely a fluidized-bed drying system is provided between a coal powder bunker as well as a weighing belt and a coal grinding mill of the prior coal fired boiler generating set, and superheated steam which has done partial work is extracted from an steam turbine and used as a drying medium, moisture contained in the coal powder is evaporated with sensible heat and latent heat of the superheated steam, water resulted from the condensation of the superheated steam is fed into a deaerator of the steam turbine via a condensate pump for recirculation. The present invention has advantages of reducing coal consumption and saving coal, recovering residual heat, reducing emission of carbon dioxide and adopting to the national industrial policy on energy saving and emission reduction. |
| US08661820B2 |
LNG regasification and power generation
LNG is regasified with concurrent power production in systems and methods where the refrigeration content of the LNG condenses a low pressure working fluid vapor and in which the combined refrigeration content of the warmed LNG and low pressure working fluid condensate condenses an intermediate pressure working fluid vapor. |
| US08661818B2 |
Hot dry rock generation system
A hot dry rock generation system, having: a recharge well that is formed from the ground to an underground hot dry rock into which a heat carrier streams through the recharge well; a production well that is formed from the underground hot dry rock from which the heated heat carrier is streams through the production well; a power generation plant that converts the thermal energy of the heat carrier streaming out of, into electric energy; a collecting tank that stores the heat carrier discharged from the power generation plant; a sealing water pump that sucks the heat carrier collected in the collecting tank and makes the heat carrier stream into the recharge well, whereby the hot dry rock generation system is provided with a heat exchanger into which the heat carrier streaming out of the production well streams. |
| US08661817B2 |
High efficiency dual cycle internal combustion steam engine and method
The coolant in the cooling jacket of a dual cycle internal combustion steam engine is intentionally maintained at an elevated temperature that may typically range from about 225° F.-300° F. or more. A non-aqueous liquid coolant is used to cool the combustion chamber together with a provision for controlling the flow rate and residence time of the coolant within the cooling jacket to maintain the temperature of the coolant at a selected elevated temperature that is substantially above the boiling point of water but below the boiling point of the coolant. The coolant is passed from the jacket through a heat exchanger in a first circuit to transfer heat to a vaporizable working fluid such as water and is then returned. An optional second circuit is an intrajacket perturbation circuit within the engine can be used to disrupt and disperse pockets of vapor that may tend to form before damaging hot spots can develop around the combustion chamber. A cooling jacket design is tailored to extract heat at the highest possible temperature from each heat transfer zone as by having the coolant follow a circuitous helical pathway to achieve more efficient and improved heat transfer from the combustion chamber to the cooling medium. |
| US08661802B2 |
Flange plate, flange connection and exhaust manifold
The present invention relates to a flange plate for connecting exhaust pipes to a combustion engine, with at least two connecting sockets integrally moulded on the flange plate, on each of which an exhaust pipe can be fastened, and with a plurality of through openings for fixing the flange plate to the combustion engine. Thermal expansion effects can be better compensated if at least one of the connecting sockets is formed in a connecting region, which is surrounded by a slit penetrating the flange plate, wherein the respective slit comprises at least one interruption and the respective connecting region in the region of the respective interruption is connected to the remaining flange plate. |
| US08661800B2 |
Method of collection and reuse of exhaust heat in a diesel-powered vehicle
A heat transfer method for an engine is disclosed herein utilizing a heat battery configured to store waste exhaust heat in phase-chase materials for use during a subsequent engine start. By reusing waste exhaust heat in this manner, exhaust emissions may be reduced, and delays in heating the vehicle cabin and other vehicle systems after engine start may be reduced. |
| US08661799B2 |
Exhaust system for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust system for an internal combustion engine is provided. The engine comprises an exhaust line, at least one exhaust gas aftertreatment device arranged in the exhaust line, and a heat source and a heat sink arranged in separate branches of the exhaust line upstream of the exhaust gas aftertreatment device, an exhaust gas flow rate through each respective separate exhaust branch controlled by at least one flow control device. In this way, the temperature of the exhaust entering the aftertreatment device may be controlled by an amount of exhaust that flows through each branch of the exhaust line. |
| US08661798B2 |
Air entrainment component for vehicle exhaust system
A vehicle exhaust system includes an air entrainment component that is used to reduce exhaust gas temperatures exiting the vehicle exhaust system. The air entrainment component includes an exhaust pipe with a non-circular cross-section at one end and an overlap tube that substantially surrounds the non-circular cross-section to form an air gap between the exhaust pipe and the overlap tube. Cooling external air is drawn into the air gap to cool heated exhaust gases within the exhaust pipe. |
| US08661797B2 |
NOx adsorber regeneration system and method
An exhaust gas after treatment system for an engine comprises an oxidation catalyst NOx adsorber wherein an oxidation catalyst compound and a NOx adsorber compound are disposed. A fuel injector is connected to and is in fluid communication with the oxidation catalyst NOx adsorber device for delivery of a hydrocarbon fuel thereto and an air pump is connected to and is in fluid communication with the oxidation catalyst NOx adsorber device for delivery of air thereto. The fuel injector and the air pump supply fuel and air to the oxidation catalyst NOx adsorber device for oxidation thereof and heating of the NOx adsorber compound to a NOx release temperature following shut down of the internal combustion engine. |
| US08661796B2 |
Vehicle control device
A vehicle control device applied to a vehicle including an internal combustion engine and an electrically heated catalyst which is warmed by applying a current, and includes a catalyst carrier supporting a catalyst and a carrier retention unit that retains the catalyst carrier and has an electrical insulation property. The vehicle control device includes an insulation resistance determination unit which determines whether or not an insulation resistance of the carrier retention unit decreases to a value equal to or lower than a predetermined value, and an applying current prohibition unit which prohibits applying the current to the electrically heated catalyst when the insulation resistance determination unit determines that the insulation resistance decreases to the value equal to or lower than the predetermined value. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately control of applying the current to the electrically heated catalyst based on the insulation property of the carrier retention unit, and hence it becomes possible to appropriately prevent an electrical leak of the electrically heated catalyst. |
| US08661791B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling regeneration of nitrogen oxide adsorbers
An exhaust treatment system includes a nitrogen oxide (NOx) monitoring module and a regeneration control module. The NOx monitoring module monitors first and second NOx levels in an exhaust stream produced by an engine, wherein the first NOx level is measured between first and second portions of a substrate of a NOx adsorber, wherein the second NOx level is measured upstream from the first portion of the substrate, and wherein the first portion of the substrate is upstream from the second portion of the substrate. The regeneration control module initiates a regeneration cycle of the NOx adsorber when the first NOx level is greater than a predetermined percentage of the second NOx level, wherein the regeneration cycle includes injecting hydrocarbons (HC) into the exhaust stream at a location upstream from the NOx adsorber. |
| US08661784B2 |
Exhaust gas aftertreatment
A method to improve NOx reduction in diesel engine exhausts by selective catalytic reduction using reductants comprising hydrocarbons, comprising passing the exhaust gases through a series of zones, said zones comprising a first zone in which a first catalyst is located that promotes HC SCR, to yield a first product gas; a second zone through which the first product gas is passed and in which a second catalyst is located that promotes the H2-promoted HC SCR reaction to produce a second product gas and a third zone through which the second product gas is passed and in which a third catalyst is located that promotes CO/H2 SCR to yield a final, NOx-depleted, exhaust gas, and admixing a reformate gas comprising CO and H2 with one or more of the exhaust gases, the first product gas and the second product gas. The use of the series of catalysts offers a sound alternative to urea-based SCR, without requiring a source and storage of urea. |
| US08661783B2 |
Heat exchanger having swirling means
A heat exchanger is provided for warming fuel prior to introduction of the fuel to an engine, the heat exchanger including: a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet; a heat exchange matrix having heat transfer components past which the fuel flows between said inlet and said outlet and which are arranged to be heated; and swirl inducing means arranged between said inlet and said matrix arranged to cause fuel from said inlet to swirl prior to entering said matrix. By causing the fuel to swirl prior to entering the heat exchange matrix, entrained ice in the fuel can be caused to concentrate at an outer region of the heat exchanger thereby allowing fuel to continue to flow through the heat exchanger to the engine even when ice is present in the fuel. |
| US08661782B2 |
Rotating valve assembly for high temperature and high pressure operation
A rotating valve assembly includes an inner cup having at least one inlet port; an outer cup having at least one inlet port, the outer cup rotatably mounted concentric with the inner cup by a bearing arrangement; and a cooling system located between the inner cup and the bearing arrangement for providing a thermal barrier between the inner cup and the bearing arrangement. The valve assembly also includes a labyrinth sealing arrangement located around the at least one inlet port of one of the inner and outer cups for preventing leakage of pressure waves generated by detonations or quasi-detonations within a combustion chamber of the inner cup. |
| US08661781B2 |
Counter rotating fan design and variable blade row spacing optimization for low environmental impact
An air vehicle propulsion system incorporates an engine core with a power shaft to drive an outer blade row. The power shaft extends through and is supported by a counter rotation transmission unit which drives an inner blade row in counter rotational motion to the outer blade row. The counter rotation transmission unit exchanges power from the engine core with the shaft. An actuator engages the shaft for translation from a first retracted position to a second extended position. |
| US08661777B2 |
Solar combined cycle power systems
A combined cycle power system is provided including at least one solar power plant including a concentrating dish configured to concentrate solar radiation; a solar receiver disposed and configured to utilize concentrated solar radiation for heating a first working fluid, and a first turbine configured for generating electricity by expansion therein of the heated first working fluid, and at least one recovery power plant including a heat recovery unit configured for utilizing exhaust heat of the first turbine to heat a second working fluid, and a second turbine configured for generating electricity by expansion therein of the heated second working fluid. |
| US08661773B2 |
Meat packaging
Meat products are provided to an automated bagging system in a controlled and managed manner. Packaging systems in accordance with the present invention preferably include one or more buffering systems capable controlling the flow of meat products to a bagging system. Buffering systems are positioned along a meat product packaging line to provide such flow control. Plural buffering systems may be used as arranged in one or both of in series and in parallel. |
| US08661768B2 |
Reinforced balcony and method of reinforcing a balcony
Systems and methods for reinforcing a concrete slab or balcony are disclosed. The systems and methods may include cutting a groove in a portion of the concrete slab and inserting a rod into the groove. The groove may then be filled with a resin. The rod may optionally be secured by other or additional methods. The integrity of the concrete slab or balcony may then be strengthened by the inclusion of the rod in the slab. |
| US08661763B2 |
Purlin brace systems
A purlin brace system for roof decks which can be used to provide additional lateral support to roofs is set forth. The system includes a plurality of purlins, each purlin including a central support and a bottom flange. The plurality of purlins are oriented to form a parallel array of purlins such that voids exist between the purlins in the parallel array. The bottom flanges of the purlins define a lower plane. The system further includes at least one brace oriented transverse to the plurality of purlins. The at least one brace has a span member transverse to a purlin axis. The at least one brace is attached to a vertical plate which is cantilevered such that the vertical plate extends away from the span member and along the central support to resist rotational movement of a corresponding purlin. |
| US08661761B2 |
Edge assemblies for slate and tile roofs
An integral roof and gable edge assembly includes a metal or plastic sheet formed with positioning surfaces to facilitate slate tile installation by relatively unskilled roofers. The roof and gable assemblies include one or more hooks for holding one or more slate, ceramic or other similar roofing tiles in fixed position along the eaves and/or gables of a roof. A lift arm can be provided on the roof assemblies to replace cant strips and simplify tile installation. Tiles can be easily installed without nailing through the tiles. |
| US08661757B2 |
30-minute residential fire protection of floors
A fire protective barrier for a residential floor and a method of its construction, the construction involving a floor supported on lightweight joists of a type susceptible to early failure once exposed to a fire existing in the space below the floor, an array of elongated steel main tees suspended below the joists, the tees being parallel and spaced apart by a nominal distance of 2′, the tees having an upper hollow reinforcing bulb, a central vertical web extending downwardly from the bulb and a horizontal flange extending laterally from both sides of the web, drywall panels carried on upper faces of the flanges of adjacent pairs of tees, the drywall panels having a width of slightly less than the center-to-center distance of the tees, a majority of the panels having lengths of 8′ or more. |
| US08661754B2 |
System and method of use for composite floor
A system and method of constructing a composite floor system having increased shear transfer between a slab and support members of the system is described. The composite floor system may include any combination of the following elements: a support member, a reinforcing member, a transfer member, a decking material, a fastener, and/or a slab. The transfer member may be connected to the support member. |
| US08661753B2 |
Water-resistant apparatuses for photovoltaic modules
A water-resistant apparatus is provided. This water-resistant apparatus is positioned near a photovoltaic module. The water-resistant apparatus includes hollow, elongated conduits, and each conduit can hold water with surface tension based on exposure of the conduit to water. The surface tension causes a formation of a meniscus that inhibits a flow of water through the conduit. |
| US08661740B2 |
Foldable safety handrail assembly
A foldable safety handrail assembly includes a mounting bracket, a fixing sleeve mounted on the mounting bracket, a release sleeve mounted on the mounting bracket and having a release groove, a rail having a pivot tube which has a first locking groove and a second locking groove, a locking tube extending through the fixing sleeve, the pivot tube and the release sleeve and having a limit slot, a locking member mounted in the limit slot and detachably locked in the first locking groove or the second locking groove, a control member mounted in the locking tube to move the locking member, and a push knob mounted on and pushing the control member. Thus, the user only needs to push the push knob to unlock and fold the rail so that the rail can be unlocked and folded easily and quickly. |
| US08661739B2 |
Apparatus and method for utilizing space under a deck for storage
An apparatus for utilizing space under a deck for storage includes (a) a first securing element having a first and second portion, wherein the first portion is formed to engage the deck and extends downward therefrom toward the ground; and (b) a storage element sized to be received beneath the deck, wherein the second portion of the first securing element is secured to the storage element. A method utilizes the claimed apparatus. |
| US08661734B2 |
Window assembly with a sliding member and a security member having a ventilation portion
A window assembly (30) comprising a frame (36) in which are received sliding and security members. The security member has ventilating and non-ventilating parts (40, 32), with the sliding member (34) being slidably moveable over the security member between a first position in which air may pass through the ventilating part (40) so as to ventilate the room in which the window assembly (30) is located, and a second position in which no such ventilation can occur. The ventilating part 40 may comprise a grille, perforated sheet, lattice arrangement or the like. |
| US08661733B2 |
Electrical door-locking device
An electrical door-locking device includes screws which are rotatable in a forwards and backwards direction, and are placed in line on one side of a door frame in the direction in which the electrical door main body slides; locking hooks located adjacent to the screws; and a sliding unit equipped with a rotatably-provided locking lever having a latch for latching onto the locking hooks when the electrical door main body is closed and is equipped with a locking-lever-pressing part for pressing the locking lever such that the latch of the locking lever unlatches from the locking hooks, and one end of which is rotatably linked to the screws and the other end of which is linked to the electrical door main body. |
| US08661731B2 |
Electric door-locking system using a cam
The invention relates to an electric door-locking system to be applied to at least one electric door body that is movable in a sliding manner, and includes forwardly and reversely rotatable screws disposed side by side along a direction in which the electric door body slides at the side of a door frame; a cam assembly provided at a predetermined position of the screws to perform a locking function and an unlocking function; and a sliding unit provided with a locking roller resiliently biased in a direction toward the cam assembly and engaging with the cam assembly to perform the locking function, one end of the sliding unit being rotatably connected to the screw and the other end of the sliding unit being connected to the electric door body. |
| US08661729B2 |
Hydraulic fracture composition and method
A method for improving the performance of fracturing processes in oil production fields may rely on polymer coated particles carried in the fracturing fluid. The particles may include heavy substrates, such as sand, ceramic sand, or the like coated with polymers selected to absorb water, increasing the area and volume to travel more readily with the flow of fluid without settling out, or allowing the substrate to settle out. Ultimately, the substrate may become lodged in the fissures formed by the pressure or hydraulic fracturing, resulting in propping open of the fissures for improved productivity. |
| US08661720B2 |
Magnetic license protection and tagging system
A magnetic license protection and tagging device includes a main body with at least one magnet. The main body has a first pocket for holding at least one of a license and a tag. The main body is foldable between an open position and a closed position. The at least one magnet is connected to the main body, and selectively militates against the main body moving from the closed position to the open position. The magnetic license protection and tagging device may be secured to a game animal by magnetic attraction. The magnetic license protection and tagging device is used to appropriately tag the game animal in compliance with hunting laws. |
| US08661719B2 |
Interactive greeting card with magnet
The interactive greeting card of the present invention contains a multi-panel greeting card body with various electronic components contained and concealed therein. Upon opening the greeting card, spoken instructions may instruct the user to move an attached magnet from one area of the greeting card to another to initiate a surprise or various special effects such as sound and light. |
| US08661718B2 |
Removable initial patch
The present invention relates to the field of luggage identification tags, and in particular, to a removable identification patch in which indicia can be incorporated onto the patch prior to installation of the patch onto the piece of luggage. A fastening plate is positioned on the interior surface of the luggage and is securely coupled to the identification patch, which is positioned on the exterior surface of the luggage. In one embodiment, the identification patch is attached directly to the fastening plate through fasteners that extend through the luggage wall. In another embodiment, the fastening plate includes projecting tabs which extend through the luggage wall to matingly engage a housing member positioned on the exterior surface of the luggage. The housing member includes a cavity for receiving the identification patch. The identification patch can be removed from the luggage and replaced with an alternative or second identification patch. |
| US08661714B2 |
Shoe, particularly a sports shoe
The shoe is a foldable shoe with sufficient rigidity during use but allows for folding during periods of non-use. The shoe has an upper which is made of a flexible material that makes it possible to push the upper together in the longitudinal direction of the shoe. In a portion of the shoe there are reinforcing elements which run perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the shoe and maintain the form of the shoe in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the shoe. Rigid material is formed around the toe area and the heel area of the shoe. To make the shoe sufficiently rigid for use, an outer element that clamps onto the reinforcing elements, a stiff insole, or both is used. |
| US08661713B2 |
Alternating bonded particles and protrusions
Provided is a shoe outsole and/or a sheet material which can be used to fabricate such an outsole (among other things), formed of a base material that includes a number of indentations and lower-extending portions. Small particles are bonded to at least some of the indentations, but the lower-extending portions predominantly are uncoated with such small particles. Also provided are methods and techniques for manufacturing such outsoles and sheet material, as well as shoes incorporating such outsoles. |
| US08661712B2 |
Article of footwear with tongue having holes
An article of footwear includes a tongue. The tongue includes a medial portion, a lateral portion, a central portion, a top portion and an upper perimeter portion. The lateral portion, the central portion and the upper perimeter portion include holes. The top portion and medial portion are substantially solid portions without holes. Each portion of the tongue corresponds to a different pressure zone along a foot in order to provide differential cushioning and support against pressure applied by a fastening system. |
| US08661711B2 |
Boot with bootlace clamping
A boot laceable by means of a bootlace with a plurality of bootlace-deflecting elements and at least two separating units for dividing the bootlace into a bootlace portion extending in the forefoot region and a bootlace portion extending in the lower leg region, the separating units each comprising a base element fastenable to the boot and an eyelet element, fitted swivellably to the base element, in between which the bootlace may be clamped. The eyelet element comprises a substantially arched clip portion with a middle part and two clip legs. The two clip legs each comprise an opening, wherein the bootlace may be introduced through the one opening into the inside of the arch shape, passed under the middle part and passed back out of the arch shape through the other opening. |
| US08661710B2 |
Method for manufacturing a fluid-filled chamber with a reinforced surface
An article of footwear may have an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure includes a fluid-filled chamber with a first surface, an opposite second surface, and a third surface extending between the first and second surfaces. Whereas the first surface and the second surface each have a thickness of one sheet of a polymer material, the third surface may be formed to have a thickness of two overlapping sheets of the polymer material. The third surface may be exposed to an exterior of the footwear to form a portion of a side surface of the sole structure. |
| US08661707B2 |
Laundry drier
A program-controlled laundry drier equipped with a rotary drum in which the material to be dried is inserted and moved during the drying process. The dryer comprising a heater for heating the drying air and a blower which guides the drying air stream into the interior of the drum. The axis of a current generator is mechanically coupled to the rotary drum and the output voltage of the current generator is applied to the excitation winding of a relay whose switching contacts switch the heating current circuit for the drying air. |
| US08661705B2 |
Method for producing a polymer material filled with long fibers
The present invention relates to a method for producing a polymer material filled with longer fibers, wherein the fibers, which typically have a residual moisture content of approximately 5 to 8% and a minimum length of more than 2 mm, and the carrier material are mixed and heated in a reactor or cutter-compacter, constantly moving them and optionally comminuting the carrier material, and constantly maintaining the pourability and/or lumpiness. According to the invention, the conditions, and particularly the temperature, in the reactor are adjusted so as to dry the fibers to the lowest residual moisture possible, at which the fibers are just barely sufficiently flexible so as not to break during processing in the reactor, or during an optionally following compression step, for example extrusion. |
| US08661704B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
Provided is substrate processing apparatus including processing chamber that dries substrate W using high temperature and high pressure fluid, raw material accommodating unit that accommodates raw material in liquid state, and supplying unit that supplies the high temperature and high pressure fluid to the processing chamber. The supplying unit includes sealable outer vessel connected to the processing chamber and the raw material accommodating unit, and inner vessel provided within the outer vessel and configured to receive the raw material. The inner vessel is provided with opened holes portions configured to drop down the raw material toward a portion of the outer vessel to be heated. After the raw material is accommodated in the inner vessel, the raw material is contacted with the portion to be heated and then heated. A high temperature and high pressure fluid is then obtained and supplied to the processing chamber. |
| US08661702B2 |
Kit and method for assembling a decorative object pattern upon a separate article
A kit and method for assembling a decorative object pattern upon a fabric article including a flat, smooth surface board, a desired number of individual stencil units, slidably situated upon the board, and held movably in place by magnetic force. The stencil units are arranged upon the board surface to create a desired stencil design. Rhinestones or other decorative objects are situated within the stencil pattern with their adhesive side down. An adhesive backed cover sheet is provided to hold the decorative object pattern in place. The cover sheet is adapted to being placed on the fabric surface, and the held objects adhered thereto. |
| US08661701B2 |
Digital angle gauge
A digital angle gauge includes a gauge body having a reference surface that is engageable with an object to be measured for angular inclination. An angle sensor and processor mounted in the body determine an inclination angle of the object with which the reference surface of the gauge body is engaged. A digital screen is pivotally mounted to the gauge body for visually displaying the determined inclination. |
| US08661700B2 |
Smart probe
The present system, method, article of manufacture, software, and apparatus is an “intelligent” probe system and components thereof and may openly encompass, in at least an embodiment, an embedded IC chip located in an interchangeable probe(s) which offers repeatable, fast, easy, and error free probe swapping on a CMM. |
| US08661697B2 |
Slope assessment tool
Applicant has devised a slope measurement tool which can be arranged in a compact storage configuration which is relatively small and lightweight. The tool can be reconfigured to several different configurations to measure the slopes of trenches, benched slopes, and other excavations. The slope measurement tool devised is adjustable to measure several different specified angles. In one form, the apparatus can be utilized to measure benching, which is described in the OSHA code. |
| US08661694B2 |
Portable hand-held power tool
A portable handheld power tool (1), such as a chain saw or a power drill, having a receiving device (100) arranged on a body portion (2) of the power tool (1). The receiving device (100) is arranged for connecting/disconnecting to the portable handheld power tool (1) either a flexible elongated member, such as a rope, or a fastening device secured to the elongated member or to an operator of the portable handheld power tool (1). The receiving device (100) has a receiving portion (110) for receiving and leading the flexible elongated member therethrough. The receiving portion (100) extends substantially in a plane (P). Furthermore, the receiving device (100) has an attachment portion (120) which is arranged to connect the receiving device (100) to a body portion (2) of the portable handheld power tool (1) by means of a pivot assembly (4). The pivot assembly (4) defines a pivot axis (PA), permitting the receiving portion (110) to move between a resting position, wherein the plane of the receiving portion (110) is essentially parallel to the pivot axis (PA), and an operating position. In the operating position, the receiving portion (110) is movable about the pivot axis (PA), and the plane (P) of the receiving portion is essentially perpendicular to the pivot axis (PA). |
| US08661689B2 |
Shaving cartridges having a plurality of arrays
A razor blade cartridge which has a housing with a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and one or more blades mounted within the housing. An elongated resilient skin contacting element is joined to the proximal end portion of the housing. The elongated resilient skin contacting element has an alignment array of skin contacting members having a pattern of one or more flexible skin-engaging projections that are generally transverse to one or more of the blades and define a plurality of open channels that facilitate the generally unobstructed passage of hair to one or more of the blades during shaving. The elongated resilient skin contacting element also has at least one additional array of skin contacting members having a pattern that is different than the pattern of the alignment array of skin contacting members. |
| US08661688B2 |
Electric shaver
An electric shaver including: a gripper portion to be held by the user's hand; and a head portion configured to hold a shaving-blade unit and supported to be swingable in predetermined directions with respect to the gripper portion, wherein the head portion is provided with an edge-trimmer-blade unit. |
| US08661687B2 |
Blade shaving device and method
A shaving device that includes a shaving head intended to be moved in contact with the skin, where the head has at least one blade made of conducting material having a cutting edge suitable for cutting hairs. The blade is supplied electrically by a current source suitable for transmitting a current generating an electrolysis effect at the root of a hair. A shaving method employing current transmission by the blade is also described. |
| US08661684B1 |
High rate pulsing wing assembly line
A single piece pulsed flow wing assembly method providing for horizontal wing manufacture is accomplished using synchronized automated vehicles guided in a predetermined manner to move and, locate wing structure in a plurality of assembly positions. Multi-axis assembly positioning systems (MAPS) are used at each assembly position to support and index components in the wing structure and determinant assembly techniques are used for indexing of the components. Modular automated manufacturing processes employing magnetic assembly clamping, drilling, fastener insertion, and sealant application are employed. |
| US08661681B2 |
Method of fabricating a micro-mechanical component
The invention relates to a method (1) of fabricating a micro-mechanical component that includes the following step: b) forming (3) at least one plate that includes a frame connected by at least one bridge of material to a part of said component, wherein said part has a hole. According to the invention, the method (1) also includes the following steps: e) stacking (5) said at least one plate against a support; f) securing (7) a pin in the hole of said at least one stacked part so as to form the component; g) releasing (9) the component formed from each plate. The invention concerns the field of watchmaking. |
| US08661678B1 |
Combination roller coaster wheel
Wear resistant metal ring thermally locked at a machined interface to a lightweight alloy roller coaster wheel body and method of machining and thermally locking. |
| US08661674B1 |
Method of repairing a furnace
A furnace repair device and method therefore is accomplished by including pipe of suitable length and strength to have at least one swedged end permitting assembly in female to male relationship, which permits a proper securing of the replacement pipe in a desired position in the heat exchanger. |
| US08661670B2 |
Apparatus for producing a structured metal sheet for exhaust gas treatment devices
A process for producing a structure in a smooth sheet-metal strip includes multiple process steps. In a first step, a first section of a smooth sheet-metal strip is fed to a first tool and a second section of the sheet-metal strip is fed to a second tool in a direction of advance. Then the sheet-metal strip is stopped. A sheet-metal machining of the first section of the sheet-metal strip is carried out using the first tool. A sheet-metal machining of the second section of the sheet-metal strip is carried out using the second tool, with the first feeding step being carried out simultaneously. An apparatus is provided for producing a sheet-metal strip of such a complex structure, which produces the structure with a very high degree of accuracy even when the materials properties differ. |
| US08661666B2 |
Methods of installing wiring in poured concrete
Applicant has disclosed an improved method and apparatus for installing electrical junction boxes in embedded concrete construction applications. In the preferred embodiment, a first box (with at least one attached conduit) is embedded in the bottom of a concrete deck at pour, wherein the box has an open bottom covered during the pour. After pouring, the cover is removed to expose the open bottom, through a plane of the deck, without having to break through the concrete. A second box, with an open top, is lifted up and fastened (preferably, screwed) to the embedded first box to complete a preferred electrical junction box. The second box is designed to be exposed to accept surface mount or exposed wiring methods. There is a passage between the first and second boxes for accepting wire pulled through the conduit(s). |
| US08661663B2 |
Method for manufacturing a multimodal neural probe
A neural probe includes a probe, wherein a tip of the probe is tapered; an insulating layer covering the probe, and one or more metallic traces, wherein the metallic traces are provide along the length of the probe. The probe also includes one or more contacts provided on the tip of the probe, wherein each of the one or more metallic traces terminates at the one or more contacts, and the one or more contacts provide an array of nanosized metallic pillars. The neural probe may also incorporate a lightguide. The lightguide may include an insulating layer providing a first cladding layer on the probe, a core layer provided on top of the first cladding layer, wherein the metallic traces and contacts are provided in the core layer with a core material, and a second cladding layer provided on top of the core layer. |
| US08661662B1 |
Making transparent touch-responsive device with micro-wire electrodes
A method of making a touch-responsive capacitive device includes providing a transparent substrate and forming anisotropically conductive first and second electrodes extending in corresponding first and second orthogonal length directions over the substrate. Anisotropically conductive first and second electrodes each with electrically connected micro-wires are formed on opposing sides of the transparent substrate. The anisotropically conductive first and second electrodes extend in corresponding first and second length directions. The first and second micro-wires are formed with substantially parallel straight micro-wires extending substantially in the corresponding first and second length directions and a plurality of angled micro-wires are formed at a non-orthogonal angle to the straight micro-wires and electrically connect the straight micro-wires so that the anisotropically conductive first and second electrodes have a greater electrical conductivity in the corresponding first and second length directions than in another anisotropically conductive electrode direction. |
| US08661660B2 |
Process for manufacturing LED lighting with integrated heat sink
A method for manufacturing an LED lamp assembly includes anodizing at least a portion of a surface of an electrically and thermally conductive base, such as an aluminum or aluminum alloy base, so as to form an electrically insulating coating. The base may form a heat sink or be coupled to a heat sink. The anodized surface is chemically etched and circuit traces that include an LED landing are formed on the etched anodized surface. LEDs are electrically and mechanically attached to the LED landing by way of conductive metallic solder such that heat generated from the LED is transferred efficiently through the solder and LED landing to the base and heat sink through a metal-to-metal contact pathway. |
| US08661656B2 |
Hydraulic compression tool for installing a coaxial cable connector and method of operating thereof
A hydraulic compression tool for securing a compression type cable connector to a prepared end of a coaxial cable. The tool can include a hydraulic assembly having an axially extendable ram, and a connector frame detachably attached to the hydraulic assembly. The connector frame can include a cable cradle configured to accommodate cables of various sizes and a sleeve for engaging a cable connector. The connector frame can further include a sliding guide structure attached to the cable cradle. The sliding guide structure can include a sliding bar and one or more sliding guides. The sleeve can be attached to the sliding bar. The sleeve can be configured to accommodate connectors of various sizes. Activating the hydraulic assembly can cause the ram to extend, which, in turn, can cause the sliding bar to move along the longitudinal axis of the cable connector compressing the compression member and connector body into operative engagement with the cable. |
| US08661655B2 |
Method suitable for transferring a component supported by a carrier to a desired position on a substrate, and a device designed for this
A method for transferring an electronic component supported by a carrier to a desired position on a substrate include moving the carrier supporting the component relative to the substrate while the component is present on a side of the carrier facing towards the substrate, with the component is positioned opposite the desired position on the substrate. Then, a light beam is directed at the carrier, at the location of the component, from a side remote from the substrate, as a result of which a connection between the component and the carrier is broken and the component is transferred from the carrier to the substrate. |
| US08661646B2 |
Method of manufacturing multicolored illuminator
A method of manufacturing a multicolored illuminator is disclosed. In an embodiment, a first transparent sheet (499) comprising light diffusing particles is provided. Second and third transparent cladding sheets (404) are provided on either sides of the first transparent sheet. A mirror (406) is provided adjacent to the second sheet. The first sheet, second sheet, third sheet and mirror are merged to give a multicolored illuminator. |
| US08661645B2 |
Device and method for changing the rotational angle position of a pneumatic tire on a wheel rim
A device for changing the rotational angle position of a pneumatic tire relative to a rim, on which the pneumatic tire is fitted to the rim, includes a manipulating device with a gripper adapted to be rotated by a positionable rotary drive mechanism and having radially adjustable gripper fingers with oppositely facing lift-off devices. Via the gripper it is possible to load a wheel into a clamping fixture, and following unseating of the tire beads from the clamped rim the pneumatic tire can be rotated relative to the rim through a computed angular difference. |
| US08661642B2 |
Sink flange ring alignment and installation tool
A tool for installing a retainer ring onto the lower portion of a loosely inserted drain fitting for engaging a mounting flange thereto includes a generally resilient cup structure provided with a plurality of axially aligned and resiliently cantilevered peripherally adjacent strips within which the retaining ring is received in a compressed engagement seated on a helical interior shoulder. A threaded rod extends through a centering plug received in the drain fitting and then through the cup interior to axially advance the axially aligned ring carried by the strips. |
| US08661640B2 |
Extraction system for a mineral cutter pick
A system for extraction of a mineral cutter pick (1), and optionally any interposed sleeve (19), the pick (1) comprises an elongate shank (4) extending from an enlarged head (2), has a piston (12) coaxial with the shank (4), with one end face (16) of the piston (12) subjectable to hydraulic pressure fluid, and with another, opposite end face (15) of the piston (12) capable of engaging an end face (5) of the shank (4), a sealing ring (14) to prevent passage of hydraulic fluid being carried by the piston (12), whereby axial movement of the piston (12), under hydraulic pressure, in turn axially displaces the pick (1), while further movement of the piston (12) results in extraction, if required, of sleeve (19). |
| US08661636B2 |
Metal shell cutting and assembling machine
Provided is a metal shell cutting and assembling machine for cutting a material tape with metal shells and assembling the metal shell with a plastic body of a connector. The metal shell cutting and assembling machine includes a frame, a material-feeding mechanism, a pre-press mechanism, a metal shell-cutting mechanism, a plastic body-inserting mechanism, a metal shell-inserting mechanism and a controller. The material-feeding mechanism is used for transferring the material tape. The pre-press mechanism can pre-press the metal shell of the material tape for being cut by the metal shell-cutting mechanism. The metal shell-inserting mechanism can push the metal shell held between the pre-press mechanism and the metal shell-cutting mechanism onto the plastic body-inserting mechanism, and the plastic body-inserting mechanism pushes the plastic body for assembling with the metal shell. Whereby the metal shell cutting and assembling machine can enhance the manufacture efficiency and reduce the labor cost. |
| US08661627B2 |
Magnetic jewelry clasp with catch
A magnetic jewelry clasp is described that includes a first body member having a magnet that defines a first magnetically attractive surface. The clasp includes a second body member that has a magnet that defines a second magnetically attractive surface that magnetically connects to the first magnetically attractive surface to define a first locking arrangement of the clasp. The clasp includes a safety catch that has a first protuberance that is adapted to open and close the safety catch. The safety catch includes a second protuberance that fits over the end of the second body member which defines a second locking arrangement of the clasp. The Safety catch is designed so that it will function whether the two bodies are brought together with both right side up or with one up side down. It includes a pair of side panels that prevent misalignment of the first and second body members. |
| US08661626B2 |
Circumferential clamp and latching assembly
A circumferential clamp (2) including a clamping band (4) having oppositely disposed circumferential ends (8, 10) and a latching assembly (6) for securing the ends (8, 10) together. The latching assembly (6) includes first and second latching devices (12, 14), each of which includes an elongate element (16, 26, 28) which is pivotably mounted on the clamping band (4) adjacent one of the ends (8, 10) and is engageable with the clamping band (4) adjacent the other end to latch the ends (8, 10) together. The lengthwise axes of the elongate elements (16, 26, 28) lie in, or intersect, a common plane tangential to the clamping band (4), and may be coincident with, or intersect, each other. |
| US08661622B2 |
Assist grip
An assist grip includes hinges, spring cases, and coil springs. The hinges are provided with a rotary axis that a shaft-shaped protrusion and a pin make. The shaft-shaped protrusion is formed integrally with the hinges. The pin is formed independently of the hinges. The spring cases are held in a depression with which the hinges are provided, respectively. The coil springs urge the hinges by way of the spring cases in a direction for accommodating the hinges into hinge-holding depressions with which the assist grip is provided. The setup enables the resulting assist grip to offer better assemblage workability for assembly workers or robots, to show a better appearance, and to exhibit higher strength in service. |
| US08661620B2 |
Furniture hinge
A furniture hinge, comprising a fitting part, a hinge cup that is articulated thereto for fastening to furniture parts, and a cushioning apparatus for cushioning a relative movement between the fitting part and the hinge cup, wherein the cushioning apparatus is disposed in or on the hinge cup, wherein the cushioning apparatus comprises a housing having first fastening means, and second fastening means are disposed on the hinge cup, wherein the housing of the cushioning apparatus can be inserted from above into the hinge cup and in the installed position is disposed substantially completely inside the hinge cup, wherein the housing of the cushioning apparatus and the hinge cup can be connected to each other in said installed position by the first and second fastening means. |
| US08661616B1 |
Door closer with push button hold open mechanism
A pneumatic door closer having an arming and latching mechanism that once armed permits a door to be held open by placing it in the desired open position and easily released by opening the door slightly, resetting the arming and latching mechanism permitting the door to be closed. A lever having a flat-profile spring over a substantial portion of its exterior surface is rotated into a position adjacent a latching washer causing the latching washer to canter upon a slight closure of the door, locking the door in an open position. Upon release of the door by further opening the door slightly, the cantered latching washer is released and a recoil spring causes the released latching washer to straighten or become uncantered, permitting a piston rod to move freely relative to the latching mechanism causing the door to close. The single piece lever and external flat-profile spring are easily manufactured and assembled and provides a reliable latching mechanism that can be conveniently operated with one hand. |