最新美国发明专利第2014-03-11期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08669277B2	Solid forms of an azocyclic amide Disclosed are solid forms of 1-[4-[4-[5-(2,6-difluorophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-3-isoxazolyl]-2-thiazolyl]-1-piperidinyl]-2-[5-methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]ethanone (Compound 1). Methods for the preparation of solid forms of Compound 1 and for the conversion of one solid form of Compound 1 into another are disclosed.Disclosed are fungicidal compositions comprising a fungicidally effective amount of a solid form of Compound 1 and at least one additional component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, solid diluents and liquid carriers. Compositions comprising a mixture of a solid form of Compound 1 and at least one other fungicide or insecticide are also disclosed.Also disclosed are methods for controlling plant diseases caused by fungal plant pathogens comprising applying to a plant or portion thereof, or to a plant seed, a fungicidally effective amount of a solid form of Compound 1.
US08669275B2	Deuterium-enriched donepezil The present application describes deuterium-enriched donepezil, pharmaceutically acceptable salt forms thereof, and methods of treating using the same.
US08669273B2	Antineoplastic combinations of 4-anilino-3-cyanoquinolines and capecitabine A combination of a 4-anilino-3-cyanoquinoline compound (e.g. HKI-272, SKI-606, EKB-569) and a capecitabine compound in the treatment of a neoplasm is provided. Regimens, kits, and methods for treatment of neoplasm, including breast cancer including metastatic breast cancer, and lung cancer, using this combination, optionally in combination with other anti-neoplastic agents, or immune modulators are also described.
US08669269B2	Imidazopyridine derivatives which inhibit the secretion of gastric acid The present invention relates to substituted imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines of formula I where R is —CH2COOH or —COOH, which inhibits exogenously or endogenously stimulated gastric acid secretion and can be used in the prevention and treatment of gastric acid related diseases and gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases.
US08669268B2	Deuterium-enriched prasugrel The present application describes deuterium-enriched prasugrel, pharmaceutically acceptable salt forms thereof, and methods of treating using the same.
US08669267B2	Pharmaceutical, food or beverage having inhibitory activity on serotonin transporter There is provided a pharmaceutical agent, food, or beverage for treating or preventing a disease or condition that can be ameliorated by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, comprising a clinically-effective amount of (1S,3S)-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid.
US08669265B2	Hydrated form of erlotinib free base and a process for preparation of erlotinib hydrochloride polymorph form a substantially free of polymorph form B The present invention provides a novel and stable hydrated form of erlotinib free base, and a process for its preparation thereof. The present invention also provides a process for preparation of erlotinib hydrochloride crystalline polymorph a substantially free of polymorph B. The present invention further relates to erlotinib hydrochloride crystalline particles having mean particle size (D50) ranging from about 4 μm to 15 μm and 90 volume-% of the particles (D90) ranging from about 14 μm to 30 μm, to the methods for the manufacture of said crystalline particles, and to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said crystalline particles.
US08669264B2	Rutaecarpine derivatives for activating CYP1A2 in a subject The teachings provided herein generally relate to compositions comprising rutaecarpine derivatives that activates CYP1A2 through enzyme induction. The uses for such a derivative can include removing caffeine from a subject, improving sleep, treating insomnia, treating caffeine toxicity, treating caffeine addiction and withdrawal symptoms, and the like. Caffeine is just one example of a substrate that can be removed using the derivatives taught herein, and other examples, including theophylline, are provided herein.
US08669263B2	Use of TAM receptor inhibitors as antimicrobials This disclosure concerns antimicrobial compositions and methods for immunoenhancement, for example methods of increasing production of a type I interferon (IFN) in response to pathogen infection, by administration of a TAM receptor inhibitor. In certain embodiments, the disclosure concerns methods of using a TAM receptor inhibitor to treat a viral or bacterial infection in a subject.
US08669262B2	3,5-diamino-6-chloro-N-(N-(4-(4-(2-(hexyl(2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexyl)amino)ethoxy)phenyl)butyl)carbamimidoyl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide The present invention relates to the compound of the formula: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as well as compositions containing the same, processes for the preparation of the same, and therapeutic methods of use therefore in promoting hydration of mucosal surfaces and the treatment of diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, bronchiectasis, acute and chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, and pneumonia.
US08669261B2	Acrylomido derivatives useful as inhibitors of the mitochondrial permeability transition Acrylamido derivatives useful as therapeutic agents, particularly for the prevention and/or treatment of diseases and conditions associated with the activity of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP), such as the diseases characterized by ischemia/reperfusion, oxidative or degenerative tissue damage, are herein described. These compounds belong to the structural formula (I) wherein R, R′, R″, W and a are as defined in the specification. The invention also relates to the preparation of these compounds, as well as to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US08669260B2	Ketoconazole-derivative antagonist of human pregnane X receptor and uses thereof The application discloses ketoconazole derivatives that are antagonists of the human pregnane X receptor (PXR), methods of preparing the derivatives, uses of the derivatives with drug therapy, and methods of inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and multidrug resistance using inhibitors of PXR.
US08669258B2	Treatment for gastroparesis using sepiapterin Embodiments of the invention are directed to the treatment of gastroparesis by administering sepiapterin.
US08669257B2	Phenazine derivatives and uses thereof as potassium channel modulators The present invention provides compounds of Formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each of W, Q, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, m, and n is as defined herein, pharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
US08669256B2	Substituted thieno[2,3-b]pyrazine compounds as modulators of B-Raf kinase activity The invention relates to compounds according to general Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The compounds can be used for the treatment of cancer.
US08669244B2	Cucurbitane-triterpenoid compounds, pharmaceutical composition, use and preparation method thereof Disclosed is a cucurbitane-triterpenoid compound for activating estrogen receptor activity, and a pharmaceutical composition, use and preparation method thereof. The cucurbitane-triterpenoid compound is presented as formula (I): wherein a single bond or a double bond is formed between C5 and C10, and a single bond or a double bond is fromed between C8 and C9; when a single bond is formed between C5 and C10, the R1 is oxygen; while a single bond is formed between C8 and C9, R2 is carbonyl group (—C═O), methyl hydroxyl group (—CH(OH)), methyl ketone or methyl dimethoxy group (—CH(OCH3)2); and wherein while R1 is oxygen (—O—) and R2 is carbonyl group (—C═O) or methyl hydroxyl group (—CH(OH)), a single bond is formed between R1 (—O—) and C19 of R2 such that R1 and R2 are formed tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-one or hemiacetal ring.
US08669240B2	Biological specimen collection and transport system and method of use Disclosed are compositions for isolating populations of nucleic acids from biological, forensic, and environmental samples. Also disclosed are methods for using these compositions as one-step formulations for killing pathogens, inactivating nucleases, and releasing polynucleotides from other cellular components within the sample, and stabilizing the nucleic acids prior to further processing or assay. The disclosed compositions safely facilitate rapid sample collection, and provide extended storage and transport of the samples at ambient or elevated temperature without contamination of the sample or degradation of the nucleic acids contained therein. This process particularly facilitates the collection of specimens from remote locations, and under conditions previously considered hostile for presenting the integrity of nucleic acids released from lysed biological samples without the need of refrigeration or freezing prior to molecular analysis.
US08669236B2	Biotinylated compositions Novel biotinylated composition comprising a nucleic acid, e.g. siRNA, that are useful for targeting therapeutic and imaging agents to sites of infection and tumors are disclosed.
US08669233B2	Combination of compounds for treating or preventing skin diseases A combination of compounds for treating skin diseases and particularly rosacea and ocular rosacea is described. The combination of a compound of the avermectin family or of the mylbemycin family with a compound of the family of the alpha-1 or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists is also described. In addition, a product in the form of a kit including: (a) a first composition containing a compound of the avermectin family or of the mylbemycin family, and (b) a second composition different from the first one and containing a compound of the family of the alpha-1 or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, as a combination product to be used as a drug for treating and/or preventing skin diseases and particularly rosacea and ocular rosacea, wherein said first and second compositions can be applied simultaneously, separately or with a time delay is described.
US08669232B2	Flavonol compounds, a bioactive extract/fraction from Ulmus wallichiana and its compounds for prevention for treatment of osteo-health related disorders The present invention provides a flavonol compound and a bioactive extract/fraction from Ulmus wallichiana useful for the management or prevention or treatment of bone disorders. Said extract/fraction comprising marker compounds of general formula 2, K058: R1═R2═OH K012: R1═R2═OH, 2,3 double bond K068: R1═R2═H KIOOi R1═OH, R2═H mula 2 Wherein the marker compounds K012, K058, K068, K1OO ranges 6.7-12%, 1.7-4.5%, 0.6-1.2%, 1.7-4.5% respectively in alcoholic extract and a process of extraction thereof. According to another aspect of the invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising the said compound. The present invention further provides a method of treating bone disorders by administering the pharmaceutical composition by oral, intravenous, subcutaneous, intra-peritoneal or intramuscular route.
US08669231B2	Activation of peptide prodrugs by hK2 The invention provides novel peptide prodrugs that contain cleavage sites specifically cleaved by human kallikrein 2 (hK2). These prodrugs are useful for substantially inhibiting the non-specific toxicity of a variety of therapeutic drugs. Upon cleavage of the prodrug by hK2, the therapeutic drugs are activated and exert their toxicity. Methods for treating cell proliferative disorders are also featured in the invention.
US08669226B2	Antimicrobial compositions and methods of use thereof The present application discloses a method for treating microbial infection using an antimicrobial composition comprises antimicrobial peptide which contains at least one VGFPV motif.
US08669225B2	Method of forming non-immunogenic hydrophobic protein nanoparticles and uses therefor Methods are described for producing non-immunogenic nanoparticles from protein sources by controlling the pH in a nanoprecipitation process. The nanoparticles that are produced by the disclosed methods range in diameter size from about 100 ran to about 400 nm, with a preferred diameter size of from approximately 100 nm to approximately 300 nm, thereby rendering them non-immunogenic. The invention further discloses methods for producing nanoconjugates that are suitable for a variety of therapeutic, diagnostic and other uses.
US08669223B2	Stability enhancement agent for solid detergent compositions A stability enhancement agent for use in a solid detergent and solid detergent compositions is described. Stability enhancement is provided by a hydratable salt, water and a polyepoxysuccinic acid or polyepoxysuccinic acid metal salt binding agent forming a dimensionally stable composition. Preferred polyepoxysuccinic acid or polyepoxysuccinic acid metal salts have a molecular weight of between about 400 and about 1,500 g/mol. The stability enhancement composition for use in a solid detergent and solid detergent compositions are preferably biodegradable and substantially free of phosphorus and NTA.
US08669218B2	WC gel An adherent gelled or pasty composition for cleaning and/or scenting a toilet, wherein the composition is applied internally onto the toilet ceramic and is rinsed off only after several flushing operations, the composition comprising: a surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkylpolyglycosides, amphoacetates, amphodiacetates, betaines, fatty alcohol ethercarboxylic acids, fatty acid sarcosinates, cocamidopropylamine oxide, aminopropionates, and biosurfactants; perfume; and water; wherein the composition comprises, as an adhesion promoter, an ester of polyisobutene succinic acid, and wherein the composition is free of further adhesion promoters and surfactants.
US08669217B2	Cleaning composition, cleaning process, and process for producing semiconductor device A cleaning method is provided that includes a step of preparing a cleaning composition containing 57 to 95 wt % of (component a) water, 1 to 40 wt % of (component b) a secondary hydroxy group- and/or tertiary hydroxy group-containing hydroxy compound, (component c) an organic acid, and (component d) a quaternary ammonium compound, the composition having a pH of 5 to 10, and a step of removing plasma etching residue formed above a semiconductor substrate by means of the cleaning composition. There are also provided a process for producing a semiconductor device that includes a step of cleaning plasma etching residue formed above a semiconductor substrate using the cleaning method, and a cleaning composition for removing plasma etching residue formed above a semiconductor substrate that contains 57 to 95 wt % of (component a) water, 1 to 40 wt % of (component b) a secondary hydroxy group- and/or tertiary hydroxy group-containing hydroxy compound, (component c) an organic acid, and (component d) a quaternary ammonium compound, the composition having a pH of 5 to 10.
US08669213B2	Method of servicing a wellbore with an aqueous gel containing a friction reducer A well servicing fluid formulated with components comprising a friction reducer having at least one polymer unit chosen from acrylamide groups, acrylate groups, sulfo groups, and maleic acid groups; and an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant and an aqueous base capable of forming a viscoelastic gel. Methods of making the well servicing fluid and methods of employing the well servicing fluid in a well are also disclosed.
US08669203B2	Method for forming products from a flue gas desulfurization by-product and products formed thereby Compositions and methods for producing a manufactured product, a method for making a liquid absorbent, and processes for disposal of flammable liquids with a flue gas desulfurization by-product. The compositions for the manufactured products combine a binder and the by-product. The composition contains a greater percentage by weight of the by-product than the binder. The methods for producing manufactured products include dewatering the gypsum-depleted waste stream to reduce a water content, and forming the manufactured product. The method for making a liquid absorbent includes dewatering, granulating, drying, heating, and packaging a granulated gypsum-depleted composition as the liquid absorbent. The processes for disposal of flammable liquids include distributing a by-product into contact with flammable liquid, absorbing the liquid, transporting, and igniting the flammable liquid. The artificial soils are a combination of by-product and animal waste.
US08669201B2	Catalyst for producing acrylic acids and acrylates The invention is to a process for producing an acrylate product. The process includes the steps of contacting an alkanoic acid and an alkylenating agent over a catalyst composition under conditions effective to produce the acrylate product. The catalyst composition comprises vanadium, titanium and tungsten. Preferably, the catalyst comprises vanadium to tungsten at a molar ratio of at least 0.02:1, in an active phase.
US08669200B2	Hollow fibres A hollow fibre containing one or more layers having a mean pore size in one or more of said layers of less than 100μm. The invention also extends to a method for preparing porous hollow fibres and to the apparatus for preparing said fibres.
US08669197B2	Grey glass composition A grey glass composition employing in its colorant portion at least iron (Fe2O3/FeO), cobalt and selenium is provided. The glass allows high visible transmission, and good IR absorption, while at the same time achieving desired grey color. In certain example embodiments, the colorant portion includes, or may consist essentially of: total iron (expressed as Fe2O3)0.20 to 0.35% selenium0.0002 to 0.0020% cobalt oxide0.0025 to 0.0060% titanium oxide0 to 1.0% glass redox:<=.27; or 0.10 to 0.25.
US08669195B2	Electrical components and circuits constructed as textiles Electrical components are formed in a fabric during the weaving process by a series of crossing conductors in the warp and weft fibers of the fabric. Some of the crossing points provide permanent Separation of the crossing conductors, others permanent connection of the crossing conductors and others connection upon the application of pressure to the fabric. The structure provides the possibility of forming a greater range of components and more reliable component characteristics than heretofore possible.
US08669193B2	Sheet material for a folding wall of a transition device and the method for the production of such sheet material The subject of this invention is a sheet of material for the manufacture of a folding wall of a transition between two articulated vehicle units, as well as the folding wall of a passenger boarding bridge or passenger stairs, wherein the sheet material has at least one reinforcement element, with the reinforcement element is coated on both sides with a plastic layer, wherein the at least one reinforcement element has on one side a coating based on a silicone rubber and on the other side a coating based on an organic rubber.
US08669192B2	Vapor deposition device, vapor deposition method, organic EL element and organic EL display device First and second vapor deposition particles (91a, 91b) discharged from first and second vapor deposition source openings (61a, 61b) pass through first and second limiting openings (82a, 82b) of a limiting plate unit (80), pass through mask opening (71) of a vapor deposition mask (70) and adhere to a substrate (10) so as to form a coating film. If regions on the substrate to which the first vapor deposition particles and the second vapor deposition particles adhere if the vapor deposition mask is assumed not to exist are respectively denoted by a first region (92a) and a second region (92b), the limiting plate unit limits the directionalities of the first vapor deposition particles and the second vapor deposition particles in a first direction (10a) that travel to the substrate such that the second region is contained within the first region. Accordingly, it is possible to form a light emitting layer with a doping method by using vapor deposition by color.
US08669188B2	Method for making a pattern from sidewall image transfer The substrate is provided with a layer of first material, a first etching mask, a covering layer and a second etching mask. The covering layer has a covered main area and an uncovered secondary area. The secondary area of the covering layer is partially etched via the second etching mask to form a salient pattern. Lateral spacers are formed around the salient pattern defining a third etching mask. The second etching mask is eliminated. The covering layer is etched by means of the third etching mask to form a salient pattern in the covering layer and to uncover the first etching mask and the first material. The layer of first material is etched to form the pattern made from the first material.
US08669186B2	Methods of forming SRAM devices using sidewall image transfer techniques In one example, the method includes forming a hard mask layer above a semiconducting substrate, forming a patterned spacer mask layer above the hard mask layer, wherein the patterned spacer mask layer is comprised of a plurality of first spacers, second spacers and third spacers, and performing a first etching process on the hard mask layer through the patterned spacer mask layer to define a patterned hard mask layer. The method also includes performing a second etching process through the patterned hard mask layer to define a plurality of first fins, second fins and third fins in the substrate, wherein the first fins have a width that corresponds approximately to a width of the first spacers, the second fins have a width that corresponds approximately to a width of the second spacers, and the third fins have a width that corresponds approximately to a width of the third spacers.
US08669185B2	Method of tailoring conformality of Si-containing film A method of tailoring conformality of a film deposited on a patterned surface includes: (I) depositing a film by PEALD or pulsed PECVD on the patterned surface; (II) etching the film, wherein the etching is conducted in a pulse or pulses, wherein a ratio of an etching rate of the film on a top surface and that of the film on side walls of the patterns is controlled as a function of the etching pulse duration and the number of etching pulses to increase a conformality of the film; and (III) repeating (I) and (II) to satisfy a target film thickness.
US08669183B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor device This invention is directed to form a homogeneous film in a via hole formed in a semiconductor device using Bosch process. The via hole that penetrates through a predetermined region in a semiconductor substrate is formed by etching the semiconductor substrate from one of its surface to the other by the Bosch process using a mask layer as a mask. Next, the mask layer is removed. Then, scallops are removed by dry etching to flatten a sidewall of the via hole. Following the above, an insulation film, a barrier layer and the like are formed homogeneously in the via hole.
US08669177B2	Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing semiconductor device A semiconductor device includes an insulation film formed above a semiconductor substrate, a conductor containing Cu formed in the insulation film, and a layer film formed between the insulation film and the conductor and formed of a first metal film containing Ti and a second metal film different from the first metal film, a layer containing Ti and Si is formed on the surface of the conductor.
US08669176B1	BEOL integration scheme for copper CMP to prevent dendrite formation Disclosed herein are various methods of forming copper-based conductive structures on integrated circuit devices by performing a copper deposition process to fill the trench or via with copper, which can be performed by fill, plating or electroless deposition. Copper clearing of copper overburden is performed using CMP to stop on an existing liner. Copper in the trenches or vias is recessed by controlled etch. An Nblok cap layer is deposited to cap the trenches or vias so that copper is not exposed to ILD. Nblok overburden and adjacent liner is then removed by CMP. Nblok cap layer is then deposited. The proposed approach is an alternative CMP integration scheme that will eliminate the exposure of copper to ILD during CMP, will prevent any dendrite formation, can be used for all metal layers in BEOL stack, and can be utilized for multiple layers, as necessary, whenever copper CMP is desired.
US08669175B2	Semiconductor device and manufacturing of the semiconductor device A semiconductor device. In one embodiment the device includes a carrier. A first material is deposited on the carrier. The first material has an elastic modulus of less than 100 MPa. A semiconductor chip is placed over the first material. A second material is deposited on the semiconductor chip, the second material being electrically insulating. A metal layer is placed over the second material.
US08669174B2	Multi-die stacking using bumps with different sizes A device includes a first die having a first side and a second side opposite to first side, the first side includes a first region and a second region, and a first metal bump of a first horizontal size formed on the first region of the first side of the first die. A second die is bonded to the first metal bump at the first side of the first die. A dielectric layer is formed over the first side of the first die and includes a first portion directly over the second die, a second portion covering the second die. A second metal bump of a second horizontal size greater than the first horizontal size is formed on the second region of the first side of the first die. An electrical component is bonded to the first side of the first die through the second metal bump.
US08669170B2	Methods of reducing gate leakage Disclosed herein are various methods of reducing gate leakage in semiconductor devices such as transistors. In one example, a method disclosed herein includes performing an etching process to define a gate insulation layer of a transistor, wherein the gate insulation layer has an etched edge, performing an angled ion implantation process to implant ions into the gate insulation layer proximate the etched edge of the gate insulation layer and, after performing the angled ion implantation process, performing an anneal process.
US08669167B1	Techniques for metal gate workfunction engineering to enable multiple threshold voltage FINFET devices Techniques are provided for gate work function engineering in FIN FET devices using a work function setting material an amount of which is provided proportional to fin pitch. In one aspect, a method of fabricating a FIN FET device includes the following steps. A SOI wafer having a SOI layer over a BOX is provided. An oxide layer is formed over the SOI layer. A plurality of fins is patterned in the SOI layer and the oxide layer. An interfacial oxide is formed on the fins. A conformal gate dielectric layer, a conformal gate metal layer and a conformal work function setting material layer are deposited on the fins. A volume of the conformal gate metal layer and a volume of the conformal work function setting material layer deposited over the fins is proportional to a pitch of the fins. A FIN FET device is also provided.
US08669166B1	Methods of thinning and/or dicing semiconducting substrates having integrated circuit products formed thereon One illustrative method disclosed herein includes forming a plurality of die above a crystalline semiconducting substrate, irradiating and cooling an edge region of the substrate to form an amorphous region in the edge region of the substrate and, after forming the amorphous region, performing at least one process operation to reduce the thickness of the substrate.
US08669162B2	Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device according to an embodiment includes: forming a plurality of semiconductor layers located at a distance from one another on a first insulating film; forming a gate insulating film that covers both side faces and an upper face of each of the semiconductor layers; forming a gate electrode of a polysilicon film to cover the gate insulating film of each of the semiconductor layers; forming a second insulating film on an entire surface; exposing an upper face of the gate electrode by performing selective etching on a portion of the second insulating film; siliciding the gate electrode; and forming a stress applying film that applies a stress in a direction perpendicular to the extending direction of each of the semiconductor layers and parallel to an upper face of the first insulating film.
US08669157B2	Non-volatile memory cell having a heating element and a substrate-based control gate The number of times that a non-volatile memory (NVM) can be programmed and erased is substantially increased by utilizing a localized heating element that anneals the oxide that is damaged by tunneling charge carriers when the NVM is programmed and erased. The program and erase voltages are also reduced when heat from the heating element is applied prior to programming and erasing.
US08669155B2	Hybrid channel semiconductor device and method for forming the same A hybrid channel semiconductor device and a method for forming the same are provided. The method includes: providing a first semiconductor layer, the first semiconductor layer including an NMOS area and a PMOS area, a surface of the first semiconductor layer being covered by a second semiconductor layer, wherein electrons have higher mobility than holes in one of the first semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer, and holes have higher mobility than electrons in the other; forming a first dummy gate structure, and a first source region and a first drain region on respective sides of the first dummy gate structure on the second semiconductor layer in the NMOS area, forming a second dummy gate structure, and a second source region and a second drain region on respective sides of the second dummy gate structure on the second semiconductor layer in the PMOS area; forming an interlayer dielectric layer on the second semiconductor layer and performing planarization; removing the first dummy gate structure and the second dummy gate structure to form a first opening and a second opening; and forming a first gate structure on the one of the first semiconductor layer and the second semiconductor layer in which electrons have higher mobility in the first opening, and forming a second gate structure on the other semiconductor layer in the second opening. The invention can reduce defects in the channel region.
US08669154B2	Transistor device and method of manufacture thereof A CMOS device includes high k gate dielectric materials. A PMOS device includes a gate that is implanted with an n-type dopant. The NMOS device may be doped with either an n-type or a p-type dopant. The work function of the CMOS device is set by the material selection of the gate dielectric materials. A polysilicon depletion effect is reduced or avoided.
US08669150B2	Semiconductor device with reliable high-voltage gate oxide and method of manufacture thereof A semiconductor device including a capacitor and a proximate high-voltage gate having a boron-barrier layer that ideally serves as part of both the capacitor dielectric and the (high voltage) HV gate oxide. The boron-barrier layer is preferably formed over a poly oxide layer that is in turn deposited on a substrate infused to create a neighboring wells, and N-well over which the capacitor will be formed, and P-well to be overlaid by the HV gate. The boron-barrier helps to reduce or eliminate the harmful effects of boron diffusion from the P-well during TEOS deposition of the gate oxide material.
US08669149B2	Semiconductor structure and fabrication method thereof A method for fabrication of a semiconductor device is provided. A first type doped body region is formed in a first type substrate. A first type heavily-doped region is formed in the first type doped body region. A second type well region and second type bar regions are formed in the first type substrate with the second type bar regions between the second type well region and the first type doped body region. The first type doped body region, the second type well region, and each of the second type bar regions are separated from each other by the first type substrate. The second type bar regions are inter-diffused to form a second type continuous region adjoining the second type well region. A second type heavily-doped region is formed in the second type well region.
US08669148B2	Method for manufacturing semiconductor device An embodiment of the disclosed invention is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, which includes the steps of: forming a first insulating film; performing oxygen doping treatment on the first insulating film to supply oxygen to the first insulating film; forming a source electrode, a drain electrode, and an oxide semiconductor film electrically connected to the source electrode and the drain electrode, over the first insulating film; performing heat treatment on the oxide semiconductor film to remove a hydrogen atom in the oxide semiconductor film; forming a second insulating film over the oxide semiconductor film; and forming a gate electrode in a region overlapping with the oxide semiconductor film, over the second insulating film. The manufacturing method allows the formation of a semiconductor device including an oxide semiconductor, which has stable electrical characteristics and high reliability.
US08669146B2	Semiconductor structures with thinned junctions and methods of manufacture A method of forming a semiconductor structure, including forming a channel in a first portion of a semiconductor layer and forming a doped extension region in a second portion of the semiconductor layer abutting the channel on a first side and abutting an insulator material on a bottom side. The first portion of the semiconductor layer is thicker than the second portion of the semiconductor layer.
US08669140B1	Method of forming stacked die package using redistributed chip packaging A method of making a semiconductor device includes providing a first semiconductor die and a conductive frame member having at least one conductive via. A first encapsulation layer is formed. A first redistribution layer is formed opposite the first encapsulation layer. A second redistribution layer is formed opposite the first redistribution layer. A second semiconductor die is mounted and electrically connected with receptor pads in the second redistribution layer. A third semiconductor die is mounted to the second semiconductor die and electrically connected with bond wires to a conductor in the second redistribution layer. A second encapsulation layer embeds the second and third semiconductor dies, the wires, and the conductor in the second redistribution layer.
US08669137B2	Copper post solder bumps on substrate A method comprises forming semiconductor flip chip interconnects where the flip chip comprises a wafer and a substrate having electrical connecting pads and electrically conductive posts operatively associated with the pads and extending away from the pads to terminate in distal ends. Solder bumping the distal ends by injection molding solder onto the distal ends produces a solder bumped substrate. Another embodiment comprises providing the substrate having the posts on the pads with a mask having a plurality of through hole reservoirs and aligning the reservoirs in the mask to be substantially concentric with the distal ends. This is followed by injecting liquid solder into the reservoirs to provide a volume of liquid solder on the distal ends, cooling the liquid solder in the reservoirs to solidify the solder, removing the mask to expose the solidified solder after the cooling and thereby provide a solder bumped substrate. This is followed by positioning the solder bumped substrate on a wafer in a manner that leaves a gap between the wafer and the substrate. The wafer has electrically conductive sites on the surface for soldering to the posts. Abutting the sites and the solder bumped posts followed by heating the solder to its liquidus temperature joins the wafer and substrate, after which, the gap is optionally filled with a material comprising an underfill.
US08669133B2	Crosstalk improvement through P on N structure for image sensor The present disclosure provides an image sensor semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate having a first type of dopant; a semiconductor layer having a second type of dopant different from the first type of dopant and disposed on the semiconductor substrate; and an image sensor formed in the semiconductor layer.
US08669130B2	Fringe field switching liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same A fringe field switching (FFS) liquid crystal display (LCD) device which uses an organic insulating layer and consumes less power, in which film quality of an upper layer of a low temperature protective film is changed to improve undercut within a pad portion contact hole, and a method for fabricating the same is provided.
US08669129B2	Method for producing group III nitride semiconductor light-emitting device, group III nitride semiconductor light-emitting device, and lamp One object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing a group III nitride semiconductor light-emitting device which has excellent productivity and produce a group III nitride semiconductor light-emitting device and a lamp, a method for producing a group III nitride semiconductor light-emitting device, in which a buffer layer (12) made of a group III nitride is laminated on a substrate (11), an n-type semiconductor layer (14) comprising a base layer (14a), a light-emitting layer (15), and a p-type semiconductor layer (16) are laminated on the buffer layer (12) in this order, comprising: a pretreatment step in which the substrate (11) is treated with plasma; a buffer layer formation step in which the buffer layer (12) having a composition represented by AlxGa1-xN (0≦x<1) is formed on the pretreated substrate (11) by activating with plasma and reacting at least a metal gallium raw material and a gas containing a group V element; and a base layer formation step in which the base layer (14a) is formed on the buffer layer (12).
US08669127B2	Method for manufacturing an organic light emitting diode display Making an OLED display, includes forming a first storage plate and a gate insulating layer covering the first storage plate on a substrate; sequentially forming a second storage plate covering the first storage plate and a capacitor intermediate on the gate insulating layer; forming a first doping region by injecting an impurity to a part that is not covered by the capacitor intermediate in the first storage plate; forming an interlayer insulating layer having a capacitor opening exposing the capacitor intermediate, and a plurality of erosion preventing layers on an edge of the capacitor intermediate toward the first doping region in the capacitor opening; removing the capacitor intermediate including the erosion preventing layer and a lower region of the erosion preventing layer, and injecting an impurity in the first storage plate through the second storage plate to form a second doping region contacting the first doping region.
US08669124B2	Apparatus and method for molecule detection using nanopores A detector device and method of its fabrication are disclosed. Illustratively, an additional via is present through an insulator layer over a gate channel region which is on top of the channel region. The additional via is filled with conductor material. The conductor material is removed to form a chamber leading to one side of the gate channel region. Furthermore, a nanopore is etched from the chamber through the channel region.
US08669120B2	High capacity solid phase A high capacity solid phase for bioaffinity assays and other solid phase applications prepared by coating a solid support with an analyte-specific biomolecule in the presence of a zwitterionic additive is described. Structures prepared according to the invention provide high capacity solid phases with enhanced binding properties, which are advantageous for any solid phase based assay.
US08669111B2	Buffers for stabilizing biological specimens and their use The present invention provides reagents and methods for limiting adsorptive and/or oxidative protein losses in a sample.
US08669104B1	Agents and method for treating inflammation-related conditions and diseases Gene-modified, inflammation-specific monocytes that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene, where the 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene is expressed to produce functional 1-alpha-hydroxylase enzyme when the monocytes transdifferentiate into gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages. Gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene. A method for treating one or more than one inflammation-related condition or disease, the method comprising administering gene-modified, inflammation-specific monocytes that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene, where the 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene is expressed to produce functional 1-alpha-hydroxylase enzyme when the monocytes transdifferentiate into gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages.
US08669102B2	Modulation of prion expression Disclosed herein are compounds and methods for decreasing PrP and preventing, ameliorating, or treating a prion disease or conformational neurodegenerative disorder, in an individual in need thereof. Examples of disease conditions that can be ameliorated with the administration of antisense compounds targeted to PrP include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD); variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD); Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker syndrome; fatal familial insomnia; kuru; Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), e.g. “mad cow disease”; Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD); scrapie; transmissible mink encephalopathy; feline spongiform encephalopathy; ungulate spongiform encephalopathy; Alzheimer's disease; Parkinson's disease; Huntington's disease; and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
US08669099B2	Bioprocessing Bioreactors are provided that include a vessel and a jet mixer disposed in the vessel. Methods that utilize the bioreactors are provided, involving placing a microorganism or cells and a fluid medium in the bioreactor.
US08669096B2	System and method for isolation of samples Systems and methods for isolating samples are provided. The system comprises a first membrane and a second membrane disposed within an enclosure. First and second reservoirs can also be disposed within the enclosure and adapted to contain one or more reagents therein. A first valve can be disposed within the enclosure and in fluid communication with the first reservoir, the second reservoir, or both. The first valve can also be in fluid communication with the first or second membranes or both. The first valve can be adapted to selectively regulate the flow of the reagents from the first reservoir, through at least one of the first and second membranes, and into the second reservoir.
US08669095B2	Method for the treatment of process gas for biological H2S removal The present invention provides a biological H2S removal system for the treatment of process gas, comprising: a housing that receives a process gas stream through a gas inlet, the housing comprising a plurality of layers through which the process gas stream flows while it is treated for H2S removal, and a gas outlet through which a treated gas stream exits; wherein air is added to the process gas stream prior to the process gas stream entering the housing.
US08669093B2	Biocatalyst for production of D-lactic acid A method for producing D-lactic acid in high yield, and to provide a method for producing D-lactic acid with high selectivity, in which optical purity is high and a by-product organic acid is small. In one aspect, a microorganism, wherein activity of pyruvate formate-lyase (pfl) is inactivated or decreased, and further activity of Escherichia coli-derived NADH-dependent D-lactate dehydrogenase (ldhA) is enhanced, is cultured to efficiently produce D-lactic acid. With regard to a method for enhancing ldhA activity, by linking, on a genome, a gene encoding ldhA with a promoter of a gene which controls expression of a protein involved in a glycolytic pathway, a nucleic acid biosynthesis pathway or an amino acid biosynthesis pathway, suitable results are obtained compared to the method for enhancing expression of the gene using an expression vector. A microorganism in which a dld gene is substantially inactivated or decreased is cultured to produce high quality D-lactic acid with reduced concentration of pyruvic acid.
US08669091B2	Microorganisms as carriers of nucleotide sequences coding for antigens and protein toxins, process of manufacturing and uses thereof A Escherichia, Salmonella, Yersinia, Vibrio, Listeria, Shigella, or Pseudomonas bacterium that has the following components: (I) a polynucleotide encoding a heterologous antigenic determinant that induces a CTL response against a tumor cell; (II) a polynucleotide encoding a heterologous protein toxin or toxin subunit; and (III) (a) a polynucleotide encoding a transport system that expresses the products of (I) and (II) on the outer surface of the bacterium or that secretes products of (I) and (II) from the bacterium; and (IV) a polynucleotide that activates the expression of one or more of (I). (II), and/Or (III) in the bacterium wherein polynucleotides (I), (II), (III) and (IV) are different from each other and polynucleotides (I), (II) and (III) encode proteins that are different from each other.
US08669090B2	Production of high levels of DHA in microalgae using modified amounts of chloride and potassium Methods for production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms, including the heterotrophic marine dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium, using low levels of chloride ion are disclosed. Specifically, methods of increasing production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms while growing in low chloride media by manipulating sodium ion and potassium ion levels. The invention also relates to methods of production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine organisms at low pH levels, and includes methods for generation of low pH tolerant strains.
US08669089B2	Ulvan lyase, method for manufacturing same, and uses thereof The present invention notably relates to ulvan lyases, to nucleic acid sequences coding for these ulvan lyases, to vectors comprising these coding sequences, to a method of manufacturing these ulvan lyases, as well as to a method of degrading ulvans using these ulvan lyases and applicable applications to the degradation products of the ulvans. The ulvan lyases of the present invention, or ulvanolytic protein, are notably defined as proteins of 30 or 46 kD comprising the following four sequences in their peptide sequence: PNDPNLK, LLEVGNTGTFGSTGS, DLANPDNV and WNLPE.
US08669083B2	Biogas apparatus and biogas production process for integration with an ethanol production system and process An integrated system produces ethanol and biogas from raw plant materials. The system includes a pretreatment apparatus for converting raw plant materials into sugars and a fermenter for fermenting the sugars to produce a beer including ethanol. A distillation apparatus separates the beer into the ethanol and a whole stillage, and a separator then separates the whole stillage into a thin stillage and wet distillers grains. A biogas apparatus processes a first portion of the thin stillage to produce biogas and a biogas effluent, and converts a percentage of the non-fermentable solids and organic acids in the thin stillage into biogas. The pretreatment apparatus is supplied with an amount of fresh water and an amount of backset, the backset including the biogas effluent recycled from the biogas apparatus to the pretreatment apparatus.
US08669080B2	Mutated D-aminotransferase and method for producing optically active glutamic acid derivatives using the same A D-aminotransferase can be modified so as to efficiently produce (2R,4R)-monatin having high sweetness intensity from 4-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-4-hydroxy-2-oxoglutaric acid by mutating the amino acid sequence of a wild-type D-aminotransferase represented in SEQ ID NO:4.
US08669076B1	Cow rumen xylose isomerases active in yeast cells Polypeptides were identified among translated coding sequences from a metagenomic cow rumen database, that were shown to provide xylose isomerase activity in yeast cells. The xylose isomerase activity can complete a xylose utilization pathway so that yeast can use xylose in fermentation, such as xylose in biomass hydrolysate.
US08669075B2	Method for the immobilization of biologically active polypeptides by using maltose binding protein The present invention relates to a method for immobilization of a biologically active polypeptide using maltose binding protein (MBP) and a biologically active solid substrate on which a biologically active polypeptide is immobilized by the above method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for immobilization of a biologically active polypeptide comprising the following steps; 1) preparing a fusion protein by linking a biologically active polypeptide to carboxyl terminal of maltose binding protein (MBP); and 2) immobilizing the fusion protein on the hydrophobic surface by physical adsorption of amino terminal containing hydrophobic domain exposed on the surface of maltose binding protein on the hydrophobic surface of a solid substrate, and a biologically active solid substrate on which a biologically active polypeptide is immobilized by the said method.
US08669073B2	Compositions of orthogonal lysyl-tRNA and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase pairs and uses thereof Compositions and methods of producing components of protein biosynthetic machinery that include orthogonal lysyl-tRNAs, orthogonal lysyl-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, and orthogonal pairs of lysyl-tRNAs/synthetases, which incorporate homoglutamines into proteins are provided in response to a four base codon. Methods for identifying these orthogonal pairs are also provided along with methods of producing proteins with homoglutamines using these orthogonal pairs.
US08669072B2	Oxadiazoline ligands for modulating the expression of exogenous genes via an ecdysone receptor complex The present invention relates to non-steroidal ligands for use in nuclear receptor-based inducible gene expression system, and a method to modulate exogenous gene expression in which an ecdysone receptor complex comprising: a DNA binding domain; a ligand binding domain; a transactivation domain; and a ligand is contacted with a DNA construct comprising: the exogenous gene and a response element; wherein the exogenous gene is under the control of the response element and binding of the DNA binding domain to the response element in the presence of the ligand results in activation or suppression of the gene.
US08669071B2	Method for estimating the number of microorganisms in a sample and device for implementing said method A method for counting microorganisms present in a biological sample in contact with a culture medium adapted to the growth of said microorganisms, Number NSA of microorganisms present in the sample is determined at a prior stage, Number NSU of microorganisms present at a subsequent stage is calculated according to number NSA. The calculation is based on a model of microorganism growth in the culture medium according to: log(NSU)=α×log(NSA)−β×log(CSA)+γ, where log is the decimal logarithm, NSU is the calculated number of microorganisms, NSA is the number of microorganisms at the prior stage, CSA is the number of microorganisms at the prior stage divided by the volume of the sample, and α, β, and γ are determined parameters depending on the microorganisms, the culture medium, and the time period separating the subsequent stage from the prior stage, α and β being positive.
US08669070B2	Procurement extraction bag There is disclosed a method of procuring allograft tissue. In an embodiment, the method includes inserting an allograft through an opening into a procurement extraction container, sealing the opening, adding extraction fluid through a second opening, agitating the fluid, collecting the fluid for detection of contamination, and sealing the second opening. There is disclosed a procurement extraction container. In one embodiment, the container includes a wall defining an interior to receive the allograft, an opening into the interior, sized to receive the allograft, a closure device for the opening, the closure device providing a hermetic seal, a second opening providing a second passageway into the interior, the second opening having a connector interface and a second closure device providing a hermetic seal so as to provide, with the first closure and the at least one wall, a sterile barrier. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08669065B1	Methods for identifying molecules that modulate lipid binding sites of ion channels A method for identifying molecules that selectively bind to a lipid binding site of a native integral membrane bound protein, includes (i) providing a solubilized integral membrane protein in a detergent micelle and having a native folding conformation; (ii) providing a soluble lipid analog that binds to the integral membrane protein at the native lipid binding site and causes a change in fluorescence of a fluorophore when bound as compared to unbound; and (iii) screening the solubilized integral membrane protein for binding to a plurality of compounds.
US08669060B2	Methods and compositions for detecting cancers associated with methylation of hMLH1 promoter DNA Methods are provided for detection of cancers associated with methylation of hMLH1 promoter DNA in a subject. The method comprise assaying for the presence of methylated hMLH1 promoter DNA in a bodily fluid from a subject. In one embodiment, the method comprises reacting DNA from the sample with a chemical compound that converts non-methylated cytosine bases but not methylated cytosine bases, to a different nucleotide base. The compound-converted DNA is then amplified using a methylation-sensitive polymerase chain reaction (MSP) employing primers that amplify the compound-converted DNA template. The present invention also provides nucleotide primer sequences for use in the methylation-sensitive PCR assay.
US08669056B2	Compositions, methods, and systems for inferring bovine breed Provided herein are methods to discover and use single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) for identifying breed, or line and breed, or line composition of a bovine subject. The present invention further provides specific nucleic acid sequences, SNPs, and SNP patterns that can be used for identifying breed or breed combinations for Angus, Holstein, Limousin, Brahman, Hereford, Simmental, Gelbvieh, Charolais and Beefmaster breeds. These patterns can be utilized to manage animals in a feedlot to obtain optimum performance based on known characteristics of specific breeds and identify animals for breeding in selection programs. In another aspect, these patterns can be used to ensure labeling on breed specific branded products.
US08669055B2	Methods and articles for strand-specific polynucleotide detection with conjugated polymers The invention further relates to conjugated polymers, and methods, articles and compositions employing them as described herein. In some aspects, the invention relates to methods, articles and compositions for the detection and analysis of biomolecules in a sample. Provided assays include those determining the presence of a target biomolecule in a sample or its relative amount, or the assays may be quantitative or semi-quantitative. The methods can be performed on a substrate. The methods can be performed in an array format on a substrate, which can be a sensor. In some embodiments, detection assays are provided employing sensor biomolecules that do not comprise a fluorophore that can exchange energy with the cationic multichromophore. In some aspects biological assays are provided in which energy is transferred between one or more of the multichromophore, a label on the target biomolecule, a label on the sensor biomolecule, and/or a fluorescent dye specific for a polynucleotide, in all permutations. The multichromophore may interact at least in part electrostatically with the sensor and/or the target, and an increase in energy transfer with the polymer may occur upon binding of the sensor and the target. Other variations of the inventions are described further herein.
US08669053B2	Compositions and methods for preparing oligonucleotide solutions The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for generating a pool of oligonucleotides. The invention finds use in preparing a population or subpopulations of oligonucleotides in solution. The pool of oligonucleotides finds use in a variety of nucleic acid detection and/or amplification assays.
US08669047B2	Real-time detection of influenza virus The present invention provides system and methods for detecting an analyte indicative of an influenza viral infection in a sample of bodily fluid. The present invention also provides for systems and method for detection a plurality of analytes, at least two of which are indicative of an influenza viral infection in a sample of bodily fluid.
US08669040B2	Method of manufacturing relief printing plate and printing plate precursor for laser engraving The invention provides a method of manufacturing a relief printing plate having at least engraving an area which is in a relief forming layer of a relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving and is to be exposed by scanning exposure using a fiber-coupled semiconductor laser which emits laser beam with a wavelength of 700 nm to 1,300 nm. The relief printing plate precursor has at least a relief forming layer provided over a support, and the relief forming layer contains at least a binder polymer and a photo-thermal conversion agent. The invention further provides a relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving which can be used in the method of manufacturing a relief printing plate.
US08669039B2	Flexographic printing precursors and methods of making A mixture of an elastomer, carbon black, and inorganic fillers provides a highly useful laser-ablatable flexographic printing plate precursor formulation. This formulation is sensitive to infrared radiation. Both flexographic printing plates and printing sleeves can be made using the mixture.
US08669038B2	Polyimide-based polymers, copolymers thereof and positive type photoresist compositions comprising the same Polyimide-based polymers and copolymers thereof are provided. Further provided is a positive type photoresist composition comprising at least one of the polyimide-based polymers and copolymers thereof as a binder resin. The photoresist composition exhibits high resolution, high sensitivity, excellent film characteristics and improved mechanical properties, which are required for the formation of semiconductor buffer coatings.
US08669036B2	Producing method of toner Disclosed is a producing method of a decolorizable toner, comprising dispersing a mixed composition containing encapsulated colorant particles which are particles containing a color developable compound and a color developing agent and coated with an outer shell, a polymerizable monomer, and a release agent in an aqueous medium, and subjecting the polymerizable monomer to suspension polymerization in the aqueous medium.
US08669035B2	Process for preparing toner including a borax coupling agent A method for producing toner according to one example embodiment includes combining and agglomerating a first polymer emulsion with a colorant dispersion and a release agent dispersion to form toner cores. A borax coupling agent is added to the toner cores. A second polymer emulsion is combined and agglomerated with the toner cores having the borax coupling agent to form toner shells around the toner cores. The aggregated toner cores and toner shells are fused to form toner particles.
US08669032B2	Electrostatic-image-developing toner, production method thereof, electrostatic image developer, and image forming apparatus An electrostatic-image-developing toner includes a binder resin that contains a crystalline polyester resin and an amorphous polyester resin; and a coloring agent, wherein the crystalline polyester resin has a melting temperature Tmc of about 25° C. or greater but not greater than about 50° C., and a content of the crystalline polyester resin in the electrostatic-image-developing toner is about 3 wt % or greater but not greater than about 15 wt. %.
US08669028B2	Electrophotographic photoreceptor, method for producing electrophotographic photoreceptor, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge An electrophotographic photoreceptor is provided, which includes: a substrate; a photosensitive layer; and a surface protective layer, in this order, in which the protective layer contains a crosslinked product of a curable charge transporting material in a content of from about 90 to 98% by weight, and fluorinated resin particles in a content of from about 2 to 10% by weight, and the protective layer satisfies Formula (1): 0.5≦b/a≦1, wherein, “a” represents a ratio of fluorine atoms to the sum of carbon atoms, oxygen atoms, and fluorine atoms present in a region of the protective layer ranging from the photosensitive layer side surface thereof to a point corresponding to about ⅔ of the thickness thereof, and “b” represents the ratio in a region of the protective layer ranging from the outer surface thereof to a point corresponding to about ⅓ of the thickness thereof.
US08669025B2	Polymerizable composition, cured film, color filter, method of producing color filter and solid-state image sensor The invention provides a polymerizable composition including an oxime ester photopolymerization initiator, an organic acid anhydride having a molecular weight of 300 or less, and a polymerizable compound.
US08669023B2	Method for optical proximity correction of a reticle to be manufactured using shaped beam lithography In the field of semiconductor production using shaped charged particle beam lithography, a method and system for fracturing or mask data preparation or proximity effect correction is disclosed, wherein a series of curvilinear character projection shots are determined for a charged particle beam writer system, such that the set of shots can form a continuous track, possibly of varying width, on a surface. A method for forming a continuous track on a surface using a series of curvilinear character projection shots is also disclosed. Methods for manufacturing a reticle and for manufacturing a substrate such as a silicon wafer by forming a continuous track on a surface using a series of curvilinear character projection shots is also disclosed.
US08669016B2	Swirl chamber for a fuel cell cooling manifold A fuel cell manifold holding pressurized cooling fluid is attached to a plurality of cells. A swirl chamber communicating cooling fluid from the manifold to the cells slows the speed of the cooling fluid and lowers its pressure as it enters a fuel cell cooling path.
US08669010B2	Nonaqueous secondary battery A nonaqueous secondary battery comprises a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, wherein at least one of the positive electrode and the negative electrode is provided with a current collector composed of a film-like or fibrous resin layer having a conductive layer on both sides, and the separator has a higher thermal deformation temperature than the resin layer.
US08669007B2	Non-aqueous cell having amorphous or semi-crystalline copper manganese oxide cathode material The present disclosure relates generally to a high capacity cathode material suitable for use in a non-aqueous electrochemical cell that comprises copper manganese oxide, which may be in amorphous or semi-crystalline form, and optionally fluorinated carbon. The present disclosure additionally relates to a non-aqueous electrochemical cell comprising such a cathode material and, in particular, to such a non-aqueous electrochemical cell that can deliver a higher capacity than conventional cell.
US08669006B2	Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery and battery module A nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery, having an internal resistance of 10 mΩ or less as an alternating-current impedance value of 1 kHz, comprises a metal outer container, a nonaqueous electrolyte contained in the container, a positive electrode contained in the container, a negative electrode contained in the container, a separator interposed between the negative electrode and the positive electrode, a negative electrode lead having one end connected to the negative electrode, and a negative electrode terminal attached to the outer container so as to be connected electrically to the other end of the negative electrode lead, at least the surface of the negative electrode terminal which is connected to the negative electrode lead being formed of aluminum alloy with an aluminum purity of less than 99 wt. % containing at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Mg, Cr, Mn, Cu, Si, Fe and Ni.
US08668999B2	Lithium primary battery A lithium primary battery 10 includes an electrode group in which a positive electrode 1 having iron disulfide as a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode 2 having lithium as a negative electrode active material are wound, with a separator 3 interposed between the positive electrode 1 and the negative electrode, wherein a density of the iron disulfide in a positive electrode mixture containing the positive electrode active material is in a range of 2.2-2.9 g/cm3, and the separator 3 is made of a non-woven fabric whose tensile strength is in a range of 6-30 N/mm2.
US08668996B2	Battery pack A battery pack is disclosed. The battery pack includes a bare cell comprising a cap plate and an electrode terminal positioned on a center region of the cap plate; an insulating layer positioned over the cap plate, wherein the insulating layer comprises a first terminal hole formed in a region corresponding to the electrode terminal; and a protective circuit module positioned over the insulating layer, wherein the protective circuit module comprises a protective circuit board having a second terminal hole formed in a region corresponding to the electrode terminal.
US08668994B2	Rolled copper foil or electrolytic copper foil for electronic circuit, and method of forming electronic circuit using same Provided is a rolled copper foil or electrolytic copper foil for an electronic circuit to be used for forming a circuit by etching, wherein the copper foil comprises a nickel or nickel alloy layer with a lower etching rate than copper formed on an etching side of the rolled copper foil or electrolytic copper foil, and a heat resistance layer composed of zinc or zinc alloy or its oxide formed on the nickel or nickel alloy layer. This invention aims to prevent sagging caused by the etching, to form a uniform circuit having the intended circuit width, and to shorten the time of forming a circuit by etching as much as possible, when forming a circuit by etching a copper foil of the copper-clad laminate; and also aims to make the thickness of the nickel or nickel alloy layer as thin as possible, to inhibit oxidation when exposed to heat, to prevent tarnish (discoloration) known as “YAKE”, to improve the etching properties in pattern etching, and to prevent the occurrence of short circuits and defects in the circuit width.
US08668991B2	Curable resins for LED encapsulation The present invention relates to a curable organopolysiloxane composition, which comprises: (A) an organocyclosiloxane having alkenyl groups, represented by the following formula (I) wherein n=3 or 4; (B) a hydrosilicone resin of formula (II) (R1R2R3SiO1/2)M.(R4R5SiO2/2)D.(R6SiO3/2)T.(SiO4/2)Q (II) wherein R1 to R5 are identical or different groups selected from organic groups and hydrogen atom, and at least one of R1 to R5 is a hydrogen atom directly bonded to a silicon atom, and on average at least two hydrogen atoms directly bonded to silicon atoms are contained in one hydrosilicone resin molecule, R6 is an organic group identical to or different from R1 to R5, as organic groups R1 to R6 may independently be linear/branched alkyl or alkenyl groups having 1-20 carbon atoms or halides thereof; cycloalkyl groups or cycloalkenyl groups having 5-25 carbon atoms or halides thereof; M, T and Q each represents a number ranging from 0 to less than 1, 00; and (C) platinum-based catalysts.
US08668990B2	Heat treatable four layer anti-reflection coating A coated article includes a heat treatable (e.g., temperable) antireflection (AR) coating having four layers. The AR coating includes a layer adjacent the glass substrate having an index of refraction substantially matching that of the glass substrate, and having a compressive residual stress. In certain example embodiments, the coating may include the following layers from the glass substrate outwardly: stress-reducing layer/medium index layer/high index layer/low index layer. In certain example embodiments, depending on the chemical and optical properties of the high index layer and the substrate, the stress-reducing layer of the AR coating is selected to cause a net compressive residual stress and thus improve the overall performance of the antireflection coating when the coated article is heat treated.
US08668989B2	Vehicular sliding window assembly A sliding window assembly for a vehicle includes a frameless fixed portion having first and second glass window portions and includes a sliding portion having a glass window panel. The sliding window assembly is a horizontal sliding window assembly and is configured for mounting at an opening of a bodywork of the vehicle. Upper and lower track members are adhesively attached at the rear surface of the first and second fixed glass window portions and no portion of the upper and lower track members is in contact with the front surface of the first and second fixed glass window portions. A glide member is longitudinally movable along the lower track member to facilitate movement of the glass window panel between its opened and closed positions. The fixed portion is adhesively bonded to the bodywork at a frameless periphery of the fixed portion that faces the interior of the vehicle.
US08668988B2	Polyurethane panel Building panels are ubiquitous in the building industry and are used to form walls, doors or other partitions, either of a structural or non-structural nature. Polyurethane can be formed into a panel which is rigid and can function in the same manner as conventional panels formed from wood and other material. The panel is able to be cut, screwed, drilled, painted, laminated or veneered. While laminating or veneering polyurethane panels with, for example, melamine or plywood, improves strength and rigidity, this is at a cost to flexibility and, consequently, the applicability of panels. The invention defined herein therefore relates to an improved polyurethane panel which overcomes the disadvantages of those which have gone before. The panel of the invention finds particular use, although not exclusive use, in building and construction.
US08668987B2	Electrophotographic electrically conductive member The present invention provides an electrophotographic electrically conductive member in which conductivity needed for a charging member is secured, and defects in an image attributed to uneven discharging can be minimized independently of a long-term use and an environment of use. An electrophotographic electrically conductive member comprising an electrically conductive support and an electrically conductive layer, wherein the electrically conductive layer includes an ion conductive resin having a quaternary ammonium ion in a molecule structure as a binder resin, and a carrier molecule represented by the following formula (1) or (2): (wherein n1 and n2 each independently represent an integer of 1 to 4).
US08668986B2	Aromatic aldimines and polyurethane compositions which contain aldimine The present invention relates to aromatic aldimines, which are based on primary aromatic polyamines, which are solid at room temperature and liquid at room temperature and which have the lowest possible viscosity, hydrolyze with little odor, and can be used as blocked amines in curable compositions, in particular in compositions having one-component and two-component isocyanate groups. Said compositions have a relatively long open time, but cure surprisingly rapidly, said curing occurring without strong odor formation and without bubbling. In addition, the compositions have outstanding mechanical properties after curing, in particular high strength with high ductility, and good resistance to heat and moisture.
US08668983B2	Epoxy resin composition for fiber reinforced composite material The present invention provides an epoxy resin composition for a fiber reinforced composite material comprising an epoxy resin (A) comprising an epoxy resin (a1) having a weight average molecular weight of up to 1,000 and an epoxy resin (a2) having a weight average molecular weight of 10,000 to 100,000 which contains at least 20% by weight of the basic skeleton of the epoxy resin (a1), a thermoplastic resin (B), and a curing agent (C). The cured composition has a co-continuous phase of the epoxy resin (A) and the thermoplastic resin (B) and/or a continuous phase of the thermoplastic resin (B). A cured product having a high toughness can be obtained from this epoxy resin composition.
US08668981B2	High temperature shape memory polymer via reactive extrusion Shape memory polymer compositions and methods of using those compositions to make products are provided. The compositions include a thermoplastic polymer and a high thermal stability free radical source, and they are extruded together to form the final shape memory product.
US08668980B2	Filled polyimide films and coverlays comprising such films The present disclosure relates generally to filled polyimides that can be used in films and articles comprising the films. The films are useful in coverlay applications and have advantageous optical properties. The present disclosure also relates to blends of polyimide precursor, polyacrylonitrile, and cellulosic polymer which can be used to obtain the filled polyimides.
US08668979B2	Low-cost tough decorative printable film products having holographic-type images Tough decorative printable film products having holographic-type images are provided that are low in cost. These film products include a relatively high temperature film that is made by continuous extrusion of the film resin onto a master film having pre-etched holographic-type imaging in order to provide a high-temperature primary film with conforming holographic imaging. This primary film provides a tough holographic-type image that is readily secured to any number of products to impart a holographic character to them. For example, this primary film is suitable for use on the surface of recreational sportsboards. When desired, sublimation printing can be used to impart indicia, text, images and colors, alone or in combination, to the primary film.
US08668977B2	Support structures and methods A support structure includes a first layer of foam material and a second layer of elastomeric gel material. In accordance with one example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of channels with the second layer of elastomeric gel material disposed within the plurality of channels. In accordance with another example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions and a network of channels surrounding at least one of the plurality of protrusions with the second layer of elastomeric gel material disposed within the network of channels. A third layer extends over the first support surface of the protrusions and the second support surface of the second layer of gel material. In accordance with yet another example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions extending through corresponding Shapertures of the second layer. In accordance with further examples, methods of making a support structure with a first layer of foam material and a second layer of elastomeric gel material are provided.
US08668976B2	Intermediate transfer member and composition There is described an intermediate transfer member comprising a seamless layer comprising a polyphenylsulfone and a polysiloxane having dispersed therein carbon black particles. The composition used to manufacture the seamless intermediate transfer member is also described.
US08668975B2	Fabric with discrete elastic and plastic regions and method for making same An in situ compositionally modulated meltspun fabric and method for making the same. The meltspun fabric has at least one layer comprising a plurality of discrete regions of fiber. At least two discrete regions of fiber are inelastic or extensible and at least one discrete region of fiber is elastic or extensible. The layer is compositionally modulated in the cross direction.
US08668970B2	Use of an antimony-free polyester film for producing film bags and film tubes with high heat resistance Film bags or film tubes formed from biaxially oriented film including less than 10 ppm of antimony and having a haze of less than 10% are provided. The films have an ultimate tensile strength of more than 100 N/mm2; have a difference in the ultimate tensile strength in MD and TD of less than 180 N/mm2; have a tensile strain at break of more than 50%; a tensile strain at break of more than 260%; have a yellowness index b* of less than 2.5; have a lightness L*>85; include from 50 to 15 000 ppm of free-radical scavenger; have an SV of at least 600 after ovening; have a tensile strain at break of >5% after ovening; have a film thickness of from 6 to 26 μm; and include more than 90% by weight of polyester.
US08668969B2	Myoglobin blooming agent containing shrink films, packages and methods for packaging Heat shrinkable, oxygen barrier, packaging films, methods of packaging and packages are provided having a myoglobin blooming agent to provide, promote, enhance or maintain a desirable coloration on the surface of a myoglobin-containing meat product.
US08668968B2	Composition for plug in base-isolated structure, plug for base-isolated structure and base-isolated structure This invention relates to a composition for plug in a base-isolated structure capable of providing a plug for base-isolated structure having sufficient damping performance, displacement following property and the like, and more particularly to a composition for plug in a base-isolated structure characterized by including powder and an elastomer composition formed by compounding an elastomer component with a reinforcing filler.
US08668967B2	Embellishment transfer delivery system An embellishment transfer delivery system (ETDS) uses an embellishment, such as glitter, and combines it into a transfer adhesive that is combined with a carrier sheet and finally transferred to a sticky substrate, such as a double sided tape. The result is the clean, particle-free, non-tacky, dry transfer of the embellishment to cover an object with precise, complete and detailed coverage. The ETDS is a clean and fully transferrable system of holding, containing and transferring glitter or other embellishments to a double sided tape that allows for detailed coverage and no residual mess or airborne particles. The embellishment is suspended in an adhesive which is then coated onto a pressure sensitive carrier sheet to create the ETDS. The embellishment transfers from the ETDS and bonds to the application in a way that allows for a clean, detailed finished product without any of the mess, stickiness or wait time traditional delivery systems would entail.
US08668964B2	Dioxolane compound, liquid crystal composition, liquid crystal element, and liquid crystal display device A novel dioxolane compound represented by the general formula (G1) is provided. In the general formula (G1), R1 and R2 separately represent any of hydrogen, an alkylene group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, an aryl group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms, and an alkylene group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms and a phenyl group as a substituent; a1 and a2 separately represent any of an alkylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms and a single bond; Ar1 and Ar2 separately represent an aryl group having 6 to 16 carbon atoms; and R3 to R38 separately represent any of hydrogen, an alkylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and an aryl group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms.
US08668960B1	Flow coating apparatus and method of coating Disclosed is a flow coating apparatus, comprising a slot that can dispense a coating material in an approximately uniform manner along a distribution blade that increases uniformity by means of surface tension and transfers the uniform flow of coating material onto an inclined substrate such as for example glass, solar panels, windows or part of an electronic display. Also disclosed is a method of flow coating a substrate using the apparatus such that the substrate is positioned correctly relative to the distribution blade, a pre-wetting step is completed where both the blade and substrate are completed wetted with a pre-wet solution prior to dispensing of the coating material onto the distribution blade from the slot and hence onto the substrate. Thereafter the substrate is removed from the distribution blade and allowed to dry, thereby forming a coating.
US08668958B2	Mascara applicator brush having germicidal properties, and production method thereof A mascara applicator brush is provided, including polymer bristles which are coated with a germicidal composition. The aforementioned composition is made from a mixture based on at least one large cation and at least one large anion, in which one or both develop germicidal properties.
US08668957B2	Method of forming dielectric films, new precursors and their use in semiconductor manufacturing Method of deposition on a substrate, of a metal containing dielectric film comprising a compound of the formula (I): (M11-aM2a)ObNc, (I) wherein 0≦a<1, 0
US08668954B2	Algae resistant roofing granules with controlled algaecide leaching rates, algae resistant shingles and process for producing same Algae-resistant roofing shingles are formed by extruding a mixture of mineral particles and a binder to form porous granule bodies, and algaecide is distributed in the pores to provide alqae-resistant granules, which are subsequently applied to roofing shingles. Release of the algaecide is controlled by the structure of the granules.
US08668953B1	Annealing process for electroless coated disks for high temperature applications A method of manufacturing a disk for a magnetic storage device is provided. The method comprises electroless plating a coating layer over a substrate to produce the disk, the coating layer forming an exterior surface of coating over the substrate, and annealing the coating layer using a heating source, wherein heat radiating from the heating source is directionally focused onto the exterior surface before the exterior surface is polished.
US08668952B2	Carbon wire and nanostructure formed of carbon film and method of producing the same There are provided a carbon wire using CNT or a similar carbon filament having a sufficiently low electrical resistance value, and a wire assembly employing that carbon wire. A carbon wire includes an assembly portion and a graphite layer. The assembly portion is configured of a plurality of carbon filaments implemented as carbon nanotubes in contact with one another. The graphite layer is provided at an outer circumference of the assembly portion.
US08668946B2	Solid product comprising oil-droplets The present invention concerns a solid product comprising oil-droplets having a diameter in the range of 0.1 to 100 microns, cross-linked proteins at the interface of said droplets and any polar, low molecular compound in between the cross-linked protein interfaces.
US08668943B2	Hair care compositions for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss A hair care composition that prevents hair loss and stimulates hair growth is disclosed. The hair care composition of the present invention comprises natural ingredients including one and/or more carrier oils, one and/or more essential oils, and fragrance oil. The preferred embodiment including Shea Butter, Extra Virgin Olive oil, Jojoba oil, Vanilla fragrance oil, Peppermint essential oil, Lavender essential oil, Tea Tree essential oil, Clary Sage essential oil, and Rosemary essential oil is provided.
US08668939B2	Bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions and processes for their production The present invention is directed to bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions derived from membrane and cell serum fractions of plant cell juice. The present invention also relates to the methods for preparing these bioactive botanical cosmetic compositions and the uses of these compositions in various cosmetic formulations and as topical skin cosmetic applications.
US08668937B2	Topical nitric oxide systems and methods of use thereof The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for transdermal drug delivery. The compositions can be used in a variety of applications, including treating erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction, treating wounds, or causing or promoting hair growth. For example, in one aspect, the present invention is generally directed to compositions for delivery of nitric oxide, transdermally and/or to a mucosal surface. The composition may include nitric oxide. The nitric oxide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other vesicles containing nitric oxide. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin, e.g., onto the penis, vulva, or other suitable portion of the skin. The composition can also be applied to a mucosal surface in some instances. In some embodiments, a composition comprising nitric oxide is unexpectedly stable and can be stored long-term. Thus, for example, a composition of the invention may exhibit a long shelf life, with little loss or reaction of nitric oxide. This may be particularly useful for certain applications such as consumer products, including those described herein. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like.
US08668934B2	Pharmaceutical formulation comprising a water-insoluble active agent A method of preparing a pharmaceutical formulation comprises providing a solution comprising a first solvent, a second solvent, an active agent, and an excipient. The second solvent is less polar than the first solvent and the excipient is more soluble in water than the active agent. The first and second solvents are removed from the solution to produce particles comprising the active agent and the excipient. In one version, the excipient comprises an amino acid and/or a phospholipid. A pharmaceutical formulation made by a version of the invention comprises particles comprising an active agent and an excipient which at least partially encapsulates the active agent, wherein the excipient is more soluble in water than the active agent.
US08668933B2	Polyion complex of double-stranded ribonucleic acid Provided are a delivery system that is useful in delivering a double-stranded ribonucleic acid that functions in gene silencing in glomeruli, particularly in mesangial cells and the like, to the tissue or cells, and the like. A polyion complex in the form of a non-polymeric micelle consisting of a double-stranded ribonucleic acid and a block copolymer represented by the formula (I) or (II) below, which are electrostatically bound together, wherein the polyion complex has an average particle diameter of less than 100 nm as measured by a dynamic light scattering measuring method: wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification.
US08668932B2	Extended release venlafaxine formulation A controlled release dosage form of venlafaxine that comprises an immediate release pellet and an extended release pellet.
US08668931B2	Pharmaceutical formulation containing a biguanide and a thiazolidinedione derivative A pharmaceutical dosage form comprising a controlled release component comprising an antihyperglycemic drug in combination with a second component comprising a thiazolidinedione derivative is herein disclosed and described.
US08668930B2	Durable film coating compositions having sustained slow-release capability, and methods of use therefor Provided is a slow-release delivery vehicle for delivering at least one active ingredient into a film coating, comprising a population of stable, homogeneously-dispersed, porous polymeric or co-polymeric beads having a network of pores, wherein the at least one active ingredient is held within the bead particles and within the network of pores and slowly released by internal flow, and wherein the network of pores is substantially non-collapsible upon removal of the active ingredient. The porous co-polymer bead preparation comprises a continuous aqueous phase solution containing a monomeric mixture of at least one polyvinylaromatic monomer and at least one porogen forming a network that comprising (i) macropores; (ii) mesopores; (iii) micropores; and (iv) gel porosity. Also provided are methods of preparing the porous co-polymer bead preparation; and for its use as a slow-release delivery vehicle.
US08668928B2	Capsule A capsule for a powder has a body which is provided with an internal chamber to hold the powder and first and second openings to an exterior environment. The body is adapted to be displaced from a filling state, in which the first and second openings are placed in fluid communication with one another through the internal chamber thereby enabling an airflow to be created through the body from the second opening to the first opening which is able to entrain powder in the exterior environment into the internal chamber for filling thereof, to a sealing state in which the internal chamber is sealed from the exterior environment so as to retain the powder held therein.
US08668921B2	Lipase inhibitors The present invention provides lipase inhibitors containing dimers of flavan-3-ols derived from teas as well as foods and beverages and medicines containing said inhibitors. More specifically, the present invention provides lipase inhibitors containing at least one of assamicains represented by the formula: wherein G represents a galloyl group; theasinensins represented by the formula: wherein R1 represents G or H, and R2 represents G; and theaflavins represented by the formula: wherein R1 and R2 independently represent G or H; as well as foods and beverages and medicines containing said lipase inhibitors.
US08668916B2	HIPE-gelation process for making highly concentrated, spherical biopolymer gel particle suspensions The invention relates to process for making highly concentrated, spherical biopolymer gel particle suspensions comprising particles of defined particle diameter (e.g., range of 1 to 50μ) utilizing high internal phase emulsion as an intermediate.
US08668912B2	Mycoplasma gallisepticum formulation The present invention provides a formulation that prevents virulent Mycoplasma galHsepticum infection in birds of the order GaIHf ormes. The formulation comprises live Mycoplasma galHsepticum strain K5831 or derivatives thereof in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. A vaccine that prevents virulent Mycoplasma galHsepticum infection in birds of the order Galliformes is also presented. Methods for administering the formulation and vaccine are also presented.
US08668910B2	Antibodies that specifically bind to the EphA2 receptor The present disclosure relates to an antibody or an epitope-binding fragment thereof that specifically binds to an EphA2 receptor. It further relates to a conjugate comprising a cytotoxic agent which is covalently bound to the antibody and a method for preparing such a conjugate.
US08668908B2	Method for alleviating chemotherapy side effects using extract of Dioscorea sp Extract fractions of Dioscorea sp. and methods of preparing the extract fractions are disclosed. The extract fractions enhance the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow cells. Also described are a method for treatment of osteoporosis and a method for alleviation of side effects caused by chemotherapy by using the extract fractions of Dioscorea sp.
US08668906B2	Lactobacillus plantarum strains as hypocholesterolemic agents The invention relates to a composition comprising an effective amount of at least one of the strains selected from the group consisting of Lactobacillus plantarum CECT 7527, Lactobacillus plantarum CECT 7528, and Lactobacillus plantarum CECT 7529, These new strains have good probiotic features and are useful for the prevention and/or the treatment of cardiovascular disorders.
US08668902B2	Composition with activated carbon in oral treatment In a personal care daily practice, common human malodor in breath can be treated and eliminated or substantially reduced through the use of a treatment comestible, lozenge, chewing gum or scraper prepared by combining a hardenable natural or artificial sweetener or gum base with an amount of activated carbon effective in reducing such malodors.
US08668901B2	Use of a glucocorticoid composition for the treatment of severe and uncontrolled asthma Methods, devices and compositions for treatment of severe and uncontrolled asthma are provided by which high amounts of an inhaled corticosteroid are directed to the small airways of the lower lungs. The invention provides for a substantial decrease in the dose of concurrently administered oral corticosteroids. A particular advantage of the invention is the significant reduction in corticosteroid-related adverse effects.
US08668898B1	Low radiocarbon dietary supplements and foods and methods of making and using same Methods and compositions for effectively lowering the carbon-14 content, particularly of DNA and histones in vertebrates, especially humans, to significantly below normal background levels and thereby reduce chromosomal damage using nutritional or dietary supplements based on low radiocarbon DNA, amino acid and histone precursors, further preferably including those which contribute the largest share of histone carbon atoms. Administration of the supplements during the earliest and/or most active growth stages of life is particularly beneficial. Particularly useful supplements are prepared by combining low radiocarbon precursor compounds with ordinary supplement or dietary components that exhibit substantially normal background radiocarbon concentrations.
US08668897B2	Compositions and methods for hydrogen generation The present invention relates to compositions and methods for producing hydrogen from water involving reacting metal particles with water in the presence of an effective amount of activator. In particular the invention pertains to compositions and methods for producing hydrogen upon reaction of metal particles selected from the group consisting of aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), boron (B), silicon (Si), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) with water, in the presence of an effective amount of an activator catalyst, wherein the activator is selected from the group consisting of: alkali metals, earth alkali metals, hydrides of alkali metals, hydrides of earth alkali metals, hydroxides of alkali metals, and hydroxides of earth alkali metals.
US08668892B2	Method and system for NOx removal from a flue gas A system for reducing NOx in a flue gas stream, including an absorption element, a first inlet in fluid communication with the chamber configured to deliver a pressurized flue gas to the chamber, and a second inlet in fluid communication with the chamber configured to deliver an absorbing additive to the chamber. An outlet is in fluid communication with the chamber to exhaust from the chamber flue gas that has contacted the absorbing additive. A method for reducing NOx in a flue gas including the steps of: providing a flue gas in a chamber of an absorption element, providing an absorbing additive so that it contacts at least a portion of the flue gas, and exhausting at least a portion of the flue gas from the chamber.
US08668890B2	Base metal catalyst composition and methods of treating exhaust from a motorcycle Aspects of the invention relate to a method of treating a gas stream generated by a motorcycle, the method comprising: contacting a gas stream containing hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides and generated by a motorcycle under both rich and lean engine operating conditions with a base metal catalyst composition, thereby removing at least a part of the hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in gas stream. The base metal catalyst composition comprises a support including at least 10% by weight of reducible ceria, and about 3 to about 7 wt % MnO and about 8 to about 22 wt % CuO on the reducible ceria support. The base metal catalyst composition is effective to promote a steam reforming reaction of hydrocarbons and a water gas shift reaction to provide H2 as a reductant to abate NOx.
US08668889B2	Air pollution control system and method SOx removal equipment for reducing sulfur oxides from flue gas from a boiler, a cooler which is provided on the downstream side of the SOx removal equipment, for reducing the sulfur oxides from the flue gas and for decreasing a gas temperature, CO2 recovery equipment which includes an absorber for bringing CO2 in the flue gas into contact with a CO2 absorption liquid so as to be reduced and a regenerator for causing the CO2 absorption liquid to emit CO2 so as to recover CO2 and regenerate the CO2 absorption liquid, and dissolved salt spraying equipment for reducing a mist generation material which is a generation source of mist that is generated in the absorber of the CO2 recovery equipment before introducing the flue gas to the CO2 recovery equipment, are included.
US08668888B2	Adsorbing agent containing titanium and iron compounds A composition containing titanium and iron compounds, in particular decomposition residue that accumulates as a production residue after the sulphate process during the production of titanium dioxide, is used as an adsorbing agent for inorganic and organic compounds, for example compounds containing phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, sulphur, selenium, tellurium, the cyano group or heavy metal. Toxic substances and pollutants may be removed from a fluid using the adsorbing agent.
US08668885B2	Aroma-diffusing heating device using a replaceable aroma capsule and the aroma capsule An aroma-diffusing heating device includes a heating base, an aroma capsule detachably accommodated in the heating base and heatable by the heating base to give off fragrance, and a cap capped on the heating base over the aroma capsule. The aroma capsule includes a heat-transfer container defining a top opening, an aromatic substance held in the heat-transfer container, and a sealing film bonded to the heat-transfer container to seal the aromatic substance in the heat-transfer container.
US08668880B2	Apparatus for releasing a dry chemistry into a liquid sterilization system The present invention provides an apparatus that inhibits microbial viability on a medical instrument. The apparatus has a sterilization chamber for receiving the medical instrument. A circulation system is fluidly connected to the sterilization chamber to circulate a fluid through the sterilization chamber. A well is provided to receive a chemistry container that includes a removable base portion. A device is provided to detach the removable base portion from the chemistry container. The device includes a mounting end that is mountable within the well such that the device extends into a lower portion of the well. An elongated intermediate section extends from the mounting end at a first angle. A free end extends from the elongated intermediate section at a second angle. The free end is dimensioned to matingly engage and apply a force to a mating feature on the chemistry container or on the removable base portion as the chemistry container is inserted into the well.
US08668876B2	Configuration having two interconnected exhaust gas treatment devices A configuration includes two exhaust gas treatment devices disposed in succession in an exhaust gas line. A first exhaust gas treatment device has a first subregion connected through at least one support body to a second subregion of a second exhaust gas treatment device. The support body has opposite ends connected by connections points to respective subregions. At least the second subregion is formed by metallic components that contact one another to form contact surfaces and at most 20% of the area of the contact surfaces have brazed or solder connections and/or diffusion connections.
US08668870B2	Ion mobility spectrometer which controls carrier gas flow to improve detection IMS apparatus has an inlet with a preconcentrator opening into a reaction region where analyte molecules are ionized and passed via a shutter to a drift region for collection and analysis. A pump and filter arrangement supplies a flushing flow of clean gas to the housing in opposition to ion flow. A pressure pulser connects with the housing and is momentarily switched to cause a short drop in pressure, in the housing to draw in a bolus of analyte sample from the preconcentrator. Just prior to admitting a bolus of sample, the pump is turned off so that the flushing flow drops substantially to zero, thereby prolonging the time the analyte molecules spend in the reaction region.
US08668867B2	Method of preparing an antimicrobial packaged medical device A method for making an antimicrobial suture comprising the steps of positioning an antimicrobial agent source within a package comprising an inner surface, said antimicrobial agent being selected from the group consisting of halogenated hydroxyl ethers, acyloxydiphenyl ethers, and combinations thereof; positioning a medical device within the package; and subjecting the package, the antimicrobial agent source and the medical device to time, temperature and pressure conditions sufficient to vapor transfer an effective amount of the antimicrobial agent from the antimicrobial agent source to the medical device, thereby substantially inhibiting bacterial colonization on the medical device.
US08668864B2	Polymer composite materials and processes therefor Processes for fabricating polymer composite materials that contain a polymer matrix, reinforcement fabrics, and particles of a filler material. The processes include spraying the particles of the filler material on at least two articles that each comprise at least one of the reinforcement fabrics to form particle-laden articles. The particle-laden articles are stacked to form a stacked structure, and a resin present within the stacked structure is then cured to form a laminate polymer composite material. The process can be employed in the fabrication of at least a portion of an aircraft engine nacelle, for example, the inlet lip of a fan nacelle.
US08668860B2	Plastic article and method of manufacturing the same An in-mold-decoration method for plastic articles is provided. An uninterrupted film is provided and transported into a mold. A predetermined area of the film attaches to an inner surface of a cavity of a female mold of the mold. The predetermined area of the film is cut from the uninterrupted film during closing the mold.
US08668853B2	Method for manufacturing a three-dimensionally deformable, sheet-like reinforcing structure A method for manufacturing a three-dimensionally deformable, sheet-like reinforcing structure, wherein material attenuations (3) are incorporated into a sheet-like, cellular base material, distributed over an area of the base material, by means of cutting or sawing, said material attenuations (3) sub-dividing the base material into a plurality of material cells (1) which are delineated from each other by the material attenuations (3) but are still connected to each other.
US08668848B2	Metal nanoparticle compositions for reflective features A composition for the fabrication of reflective features using a direct-write tool is disclosed. The composition comprises metal nanoparticles having an average particle size less than 300 nm and which carry thereon a polymer for substantially preventing agglomeration of the nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles exhibit a metal-polymer weight ratio of 100:1 to 10:1. The composition further includes a vehicle for forming a dispersion with the metal nanoparticles. A number of electronic devices comprising a reflective layer formed from the composition are also disclosed. One example case provides an electronic device having a reflective electrode. The reflective electrode comprises a percolation network of the metal nanoparticles embedded in a matrix of the polymer and having an average particle size of less than 300 nm, wherein the reflective electrode is reflective in the visible light range and does not diffract incident light.
US08668846B2	Photoelectric conversion element and solar cell A dye-sensitized photoelectric conversion element, comprises a pair of electrodes arranged opposite to each other; a semiconductor layer including a semiconductor supporting a sensitizing dye; and an electrolyte layer. At least the semiconductor layer and the electrolyte layer are provided between the pair of electrodes, and the sensitizing dye contains a compound represented by the following Formula (1).
US08668845B2	Method for preparing electrostatic dissipative polymer A method for preparing an electrostatic dissipative polymer and a blend of a thermoplastic polymer and the ESD polymer is disclosed. The method for preparing an electrostatic dissipative polymer includes the step of polymerizing the electrostatic dissipative polymer in the presence of a reactive solvent and lithium salt dissolved in the reactive solvent, wherein the amount of the reactive solvent is from 0.1 to 20 weight parts based on 100 weight parts of the produced electrostatic dissipative polymer, the amount of lithium salt is from 0.1 to 5 weight parts based on 100 weight parts of the produced electrostatic dissipative polymer, and the reactive solvent is aliphatic glycol having from 2 to 8 carbon atoms and having a primary alcohol group, or aromatic glycol having from 6 to 10 carbon atoms.
US08668844B2	Fluorescent material for use in CT applications The invention relates to a Gd2O2S:Nd fluorescent material and the use of Nd3+ as emitter in suitable materials.
US08668843B2	M-C-N-O based phosphor An M-C—N—O based phosphor including a group IIIB element (M), carbon (C), nitrogen (O), wherein an amount of the group IIIB element (M) contained is 1%<(M)<50% by mass, an amount of carbon (C) contained is 0.005%<(C)<10% by mass, an amount of nitrogen (N) contained is 1%<(N)<60% by mass, an amount of oxygen (O) contained is 1%<(O)<75% by mass, and (M)+(C)+(N)+(O)=100% by mass. Colors of the M-C—N—O based phosphor can be changed by adjusting a peak top of an emission spectrum. Highly environmentally-compatible polymer dispersions, inorganic EL devices, light emitting devices, fluorescent tubes, and the like are also provided, which use the M-C—N—O based phosphors.
US08668842B2	Method for heat treating a carbon coated alkali metal oxyanion electrode material A process for preparing an alkali metal oxyanion electrode material having a carbon coating deposited by a thermal treatment, said process comprising a thermal step under a humidified atmosphere of: (i) said alkali metal oxyanion electrode material having a carbon coating deposited by a thermal treatment; (ii) precursors of said alkali metal oxyanion electrode material and an organic precursor of carbon; or (iii) said alkali metal oxyanion electrode material and an organic precursor of carbon, wherein said thermal step is performed at a temperature in the range of about 300° C. to about 950° C.
US08668841B2	Bismuth-zinc-mercury amalgam, fluorescent lamps, and related methods A pellet having a microstructure including a bismuth phase, a zinc solid solution phase, and a Zn3Hg phase is disclosed. A method of making a pellet including bismuth, zinc, and mercury is also disclosed. Moreover, a fluorescent lamp with a fill material including bismuth, zinc, and mercury is disclosed. Further, a method of dosing a fluorescent lamp with mercury is disclosed.
US08668836B2	Plasma processing device and method of monitoring plasma discharge state in plasma processing device An object is to provide a plasma processing device capable of rightly monitoring existence of plasma discharge and also rightly monitoring existence of abnormal discharge. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method of monitoring a state of plasma discharge in the plasma processing device.A discharge detection sensor 23, in which a dielectric member 21 and a probe electrode unit 22 are combined with each other, is attached to an opening portion 2a provided in a lid portion 2 composing a vacuum chamber. A change in the electric potential induced in the probe electrode 22b according to a change in plasma discharge is received, electric potential change wave-forms of specific patterns are respectively detected by an N-type wave-form detecting portion 34 and V-type wave-form detecting 35, and a discharge state judgment including a judgment of whether the electric discharge exists or does not exist and whether the electric discharge is normal or abnormal is made according to a counted value of counting the number of times of appearance of these electric potential change wave forms for each type of wave-form by a discharge ON wave-form counter 36, a discharge OFF wave-form counter 37, an abnormal discharge wave-form counter 38 and a leak discharge wave-form counter 39.
US08668835B1	Method of etching self-aligned vias and trenches in a multi-layer film stack A multi-step etch process wherein elliptical via openings and trench openings are formed in a dielectric layer includes supporting a multi-layer film stack on a temperature controlled electrostatic chuck in a plasma etch reactor. The multi-layer film stack has a dielectric layer and a patterned metal hard mask layer above the dielectric layer. An etchant gas is supplied to the plasma etch reactor. The etchant gas is energized into a plasma state, and via openings in a photo resist are transferred into a planarization layer and then into elliptical portions of the trench openings in a patterned hard mask layer while maintaining the chuck at a temperature of about 30 to 50° C. The elliptical openings are extended into a lower layer of the hard mask and into an underlying dielectric layer while maintaining the chuck at a temperature of 20° C. or below. After stripping the planarization layer to expose the trench pattern in the hard mask, trench openings are formed in the dielectric layer while maintaining the chuck at a temperature of about 55° C. or higher. The process can thus provide enlarged via contact areas while etching trenches with pitches of 80 nm or less.
US08668828B2	Sanitary spiral wound filtration cartridge Sanitary elements and cartridges of high performance are described which utilize a thin surrounding tubular shell with an exterior textured surface. Through the use of an overwrap material of particular design and by wrapping an assemblage of sheets of semipermeable membrane material, permeate carrier material and feed spacer material using a high tension, a spirally wound crossflow filtration element is constructed which has a substantially cylindrical outer surface of closely controlled OD that smoothly fits within such shell and which resists telescoping as a result of its radial compression.
US08668826B2	Container, and device and method for producing a disinfecting solution A container (14) with a content (8) has at least one hypochlorite compound, in particular a calcium hypochlorite compound, for generating an aqueous solution, and at least one inlet attachment (46) for attachment to a water supply line (48) and at least one outlet attachment (50) for attachment to an outlet line (52, 92) for a liquid composed of the incoming water and of the content (8), wherein the content (8) is located in accordance with the flow between the inlet attachment (46) and the outlet attachment (50), and the container (14) is designed as a transportable exchange unit that is sealed off from the outside in the unattached state.
US08668824B2	Rapid cycle reforming process This invention relates to process for producing a reformate or gasoline product. The process involves a rapid cycle of reacting hydrocarbon feedstock to form the product and then regenerating the catalyst used in the reaction. The process can be carried out at relatively high liquid hourly space velocities and preferably at relatively low hydrogen to hydrocarbon ratios to produce a reformed product having relatively high liquid yield and hydrogen content.
US08668822B2	Method for operating an ISFET sensor A method for operating an ion-sensitive sensor with a measurement circuit which includes an ion-sensitive electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor structure (EIS); wherein the measurement circuit is embodied to issue an output signal which is dependent on ion concentration, especially a pH value, of a measured liquid; and wherein the method comprises the steps of: introducing the ion-sensitive electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor structure into a measured liquid; accelerating charging processes in the region of an insulator layer of the ion-sensitive electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor structure by operating the sensor over a predetermined time span at least a first working point; and dynamically adapting the working point to set a second working point, and registering and processing the output signal of the measurement circuit at the second working point.
US08668819B2	Underfill recognition system for a biosensor A biosensor with an underfill recognition system assesses whether to analyze a sample for one or more analytes in response to the volume of the sample. The underfill recognition system applies polling and test excitation signals to the sample. The polling signals generate one or more polling output signals, which maybe used to detect when a sample is present and to determine whether the sample has sufficient volume for analysis. The test excitation signal generates one or more test output signals, which may be used to determine one or more analyte concentrations in the sample.
US08668818B2	Method for mass transfer of micro-patterns onto medical devices This invention is directed to a new method of mass-transfer/fabrication of micro-sized features/structures onto the inner diameter (ID) surface of a stent. This new approach is provided by technique of through mask electrical micro-machining. One embodiment discloses an application of electrical micro-machining to the ID of a stent using a customized electrode configured specifically for machining micro-sized features/structures.
US08668814B2	Electrolytic cell and method of use thereof In one embodiment of the present invention an electrolytic cell is provided comprising a containment vessel; a first electrode; a second electrode; a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; a gas, wherein the gas is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode; and a separator; wherein the separator includes an inclined surface to direct flow of the electrolyte and the gas due to a difference between density of the electrolyte and the combined density of the electrolyte and the gas such that the gas substantially flows in a direction distal to the second electrode.
US08668810B1	Device and methods for processing carbon based materials A process for the pyrolysis of waste material and/or organic material in a pyrolysis reactor is provided. According to the process, the material is placed in the reactor and heated with an induction heater, optionally in the presence of one or more soft magnets. The products of the pyrolysis reaction, such as gases and liquids may be collected in a storage vessel attached to the reactor. A pyrolysis reactor for the pyrolysis of waste and/or organic material is also provided.
US08668807B2	Ionic liquid systems for the processing of biomass, their components and/or derivatives, and mixtures thereof Disclosed herein are compositions and methods that involve ionic liquids and biomass. Multiphasic compositions involving ionic liquids and a polymer and uses of such compositions for fractioning various components of biomass are disclosed. Methods of making and using compositions comprising an ionic liquid, biomass, and a catalyst are also disclosed.
US08668802B2	Method and device for electromagnetic welding of moulded parts A method for electromagnetic welding of molded parts wherein a mold and at least two molded parts for coupling are placed in the mold, wherein at least a contact surface between the molded parts comprises a thermally activiated coupling means and an induction-senstive component. The coupling means is activated by heating the induction-senstive component by means of an inductor. The inductor comprises an electrical conductor which, under alternating voltage, generates an electromagnetic field which is substantially cylindrical in at least a direction of welding. The molded parts are pressed together in the configuration defined by the mold, wherein the molded parts are coupled by the thermally activated coupling means. Also disclosed is an assembly of molded parts, an inductor, an assembly of the inductor with an alternating current generator, and a device for electromagnetic welding.
US08668801B2	Method of producing a laminated optical film A method for producing a laminated optical film that allows three-dimensional images to be reproduced, which is preferably used in a large image display apparatus. One embodiment of the method includes laminating a polarizing plate and a λ/4 plate and forming a λ/2 layer partially on the λ/4 plate. The polarizing plate and the λ/4 plate are laminated such that an angle between an absorption axis of a polarizer of the polarizing plate and a slow axis of the λ/4 plate is substantially 45°, and the λ/2 layer is formed such that an angle between the absorption axis of the polarizer and a slow axis of the λ/2 layer is substantially 45°.
US08668797B2	Method of assembly of thermoplastic fencing A method of assembly of fencing made of thermoplastic materials which can be easily assembled utilizing ultrasonic welding and which can include a unique configuration for the ultrasonic welding surfaces which prevents the flow of melted thermoplastic materials outwardly onto the decorative outer surfaces of the various fencing parts. Any excess thermoplastic material is designed to pass inwardly toward the longitudinally extending bore defined in the various fencing construction parts. This concept is particularly useful for attaching capping fence members which are injection molded onto structural fence members which are extruded.
US08668796B2	Draping device for textile semi-finished products A draping device for draping a two-dimensional textile semi-finished product includes a first rotationally symmetrical body having a first axis of rotation and a peripheral surface which varies along the axis of rotation. A first drive is configured to rotate the first body about the first axis of rotation so as to deform, via the first body, the semi-finished product.
US08668795B2	Method of pre-priming a membrane A method of pre-priming a membrane includes folding the membrane along a longitudinal axis to create a folded membrane. The folded membrane includes a lower layer, an upper layer, and an exposed portion of the lower layer that is uncovered by the upper layer. A primer is applied over the exposed portion and a portion of the upper layer adjacent thereto simultaneously.
US08668791B2	Ascorbic acid, terephthalate and nitromethane stabilizers for fluoroolefins The present disclosure relates to compositions comprising at least one fluoroolefin and an effective amount of a stabilizer comprising at least one ascorbic acid, terephthalate, or nitromethane, or mixtures thereof. The stabilized compositions may be useful in cooling apparatus, such as refrigeration, air-conditioning, chillers and heat pumps, as well as in applications as foam blowing agents, solvents, aerosol propellants, fire extinguishants, and sterilants.
US08668790B2	Heat treatment method and components treated according to the method Disclosed herein is a method of treating a component comprising solution treating the component for a period of about 4 to about 10 hours at a temperature of about 1750 to about 1850° F.; cooling the component to a temperature of about 1490 to about 1520° F. at an average rate of 1° F./min to about 25° F./min; stabilizing the component at about 1450 to about 1520° F. for a period of from about 1 to about 10 hours; cooling the component to room temperature; precipitation aging the component by heating the component to a first precipitation aging temperature of about 1275 to about 1375° F. for about 3 to about 15 hours; cooling the component at an average rate of 50 to about 150° F./hour to a second precipitation aging temperature of about 1100 to about 1200° F. for a time period of about 2 to about 15 hours; and cooling the component.
US08668785B2	High purity ytterbium, sputtering target made thereof, thin film containing the same, and method of producing the same Provided is a method of producing high purity ytterbium, wherein the high purity ytterbium is obtained by reducing crude ytterbium oxide in a vacuum with reducing metals composed of metals having a low vapor pressure, and selectively distilling ytterbium. Additionally provided are methods of achieving the high purification of ytterbium which has a high vapor pressure and is hard to refine in a molten state, and high purity ytterbium obtained thereby. Further provided is technology for efficiently and stably obtaining a sputtering target made of high purity material ytterbium, and a thin film for metal gates containing high purity material ytterbium.
US08668784B2	Steel for welded structure and producing method thereof A steel for a welded structure includes the following composition: by mass %, C at a C content [C] of 0.015 to 0.045%; Si at a Si content [Si] of 0.05 to 0.20%; Mn at a Mn content [Mn] of 1.5 to 2.0%; Ni at a Ni content [Ni] of 0.10 to 1.50%; Ti at a Ti content [Ti] of 0.005 to 0.015%; O at an O content [O] of 0.0015 to 0.0035%; and N at a N content [N] of 0.002 to 0.006%, and a balance composed of Fe and unavoidable impurities. In the steel for a welded structure, the P content [P] is limited to 0.008% or less, the S content [S] is limited to 0.005% or less, the Al content [Al] is limited to 0.004% or less, the Nb content [Nb] is limited to 0.005% or less, the Cu content [Cu] is limited to 0.24% or less, the V content [V] is limited to 0.020% or less, and a steel composition parameter PCTOD is 0.065% or less, and a steel composition hardness parameter CeqH is 0.235% or less.
US08668782B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning air filters An apparatus for cleaning air filters utilizes a pressurized fluid flow, preferably air, to rotate a set of air spraying jets inside a hollow interior of a filter in order to remove particles from the filter. To ensure proper positioning of the jets in relation to the filter the present invention uses a set of plates with slots and pins, wherein the pins secure the apparatus on one end of the filter. The set of plates also at least partially blocks the flow of air out of the ends to more efficiently direct the flow of air from the jets to the filter. The jets then may be moved reciprocated along the length of the filter for cleaning purposes.
US08668780B2	Contact lens carrier and methods of use thereof in the manufacture of ophthalmic lenses Methods, devices, and systems for manufacturing ophthalmic lenses are described in which lens bodies are placed in cavities of lens carriers that are fluidly connected to reservoirs, flow ducts and sub-cavity base channels that provide enhanced washing and wet processing of the lenses.
US08668779B2	Method of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting industrial water systems A method of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system is described and claimed. The method involves the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. This cleaning and disinfecting method works in a variety of industrial water systems including cooling water systems.
US08668778B2	Method of removing liquid from a barrier structure The present invention provides methods of removing liquid from a barrier structure in the context of treating microelectronic workpieces with one or more treatment materials, including liquids, gases, fluidized solids, dispersions, combinations of these, and the like.
US08668770B2	Dental cement composition Disclosed is a dental cement composition made up of ingredients comprising the nanoparticles of dicalcium and tricalcium silicate, bismuth oxide, gypsum, zeolite and strontium carbonate. The dental cement can also be used as bone cement, pulpotomy agent, pulp capping material, dental implant material, perforation repair material, and root-end filling material.
US08668768B2	System for preventing contaminants from reaching a gas purifier The present invention is directed to the prevention of an exothermic reaction in the gas purifier of an ultra-high purity gas system.
US08668762B2	Method for manufacturing desulfurizing agent The present invention relates to a desulfurizing agent of improved oxidation resistance, ignition resistance and productivity, and a method for manufacturing the desulfurizing agent. The desulfurizing agent may include a plurality of magnesium-aluminum alloy grains with grain boundaries, and a compound of one selected from consisting of magnesium and aluminum and one selected from consisting of alkaline metal and alkaline earth metal, the compound exists in the grain boundaries and is not inside but outside of the magnesium-aluminum alloy grains.
US08668754B2	Engine air intake device and construction machine incorporated with the same Two air cleaners 20A, 20B are disposed on a horizontal plane in a state that air inlets 24, 24 are directed in an upward direction and an axial directions of the air cleaners 20A, 20B are aligned in parallel to each other. An air intake duct 21 for drawing in external air is disposed to overlap the air cleaners 20A, 20B in the upward direction. The air intake duct 21 is connected to the air inlets 24, 24 of the air cleaners 20A, 20B. A merging chamber S1 for supplying airs filtered through the air cleaners 20A, 20B to an engine is disposed along a direction orthogonal to the axial directions of the air cleaners 20A, 20B. The air cleaners 20A, 20B and a merging member 22 are attached to a common attachment member 26.
US08668751B2	System and method for concentrating a solid fuel in a slurry A system includes a first cross-flow filter configured to remove at least a first portion of a liquid from a fuel slurry to increase a concentration of a solid fuel in the fuel slurry. The system also includes a gasifier configured to generate a syngas from the fuel slurry.
US08668746B2	Two-part hair colouring composition Present invention relates to a two part coloring composition for hair with improved dyeing and conditioning properties of hair. The object of the present invention a two part hair dyeing composition consisting of Parts A and B which are mixed immediately before application onto hair wherein Part A is based on at least one hair dye and comprising further at least one amino acid surfactant and Part B is an aqueous composition and comprising at least one oxidizing agent and at least one cationic or cationizable surfactant, wherein parts A and/or B comprises additionally at least one oil.
US08668744B2	Suspension device for a limb prosthesis or orthosis A vacuum-assisted suspension device for a lower limb prosthesis secures the prosthesis to a residual body portion. Sandwiched between the residual body portion and an impermeable socket is a flexible liner made of an impermeable material that is porous to allow the transport of air and fluid directly away from the residual body portion to the outer surface of the liner. A fabric distribution layer is located over the liner and between the liner and the socket to allow transmission of such extracted air and fluid laterally over the liner to an evacuation port in the socket. The evacuation port has an associated one-way valve. During use, loading of the socket compresses the flexible liner and air is expelled via the evacuation port. When the load is removed, a vacuum is created directly between the residual body portion and the socket, the vacuum being maintained by the one-way valve.
US08668738B2	Method and apparatus for ACL reconstruction using retrograde cutter A method and apparatus for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using sockets in bone created by retrograde cutting. A retrograde rotary cutter, inserted onto an insertion post of a tibial guide, is inserted through an anteromedial portal and the rotary cutter placed on the anatomical origin of an ACL tibial insertion. A retrograde drill pin, guided by a drill guide, is drilled through the tibia until it contacts the rotary cutter. Once the cutter is disengaged from the guide and securely engaged in the retrograde drill pin, the retrograde drill pin is retracted for retrograde cutting of a socket of desired depth in the tibia.
US08668734B2	Intraocular lens delivery devices and methods of use Intraocular lens delivery devices and methods of use.
US08668730B2	Vascular device with valve for approximating vessel wall A vascular device comprising a plurality of vessel engaging members and a valve. The device is movable from a collapsed insertion position having a first diameter to a second expanded position having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The plurality of vessel engaging members extend outwardly from the device for securely engaging the internal wall of a vessel upon expansion of the device to the second expanded position, wherein the vessel engaging members pull the internal wall of the vessel radially inwardly upon movement of the device from the second expanded position toward a first expanded position having a third diameter greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter. In the first expanded position the valve is movable between an open position to allow blood flow therethrough to a closed position to prevent blood flow.
US08668729B2	Stent for implantation in a blood vessel, especially in the region of the aortic arch A stent for implantation in a blood vessel is disclosed, especially in the region of the aortic arch. The stent is comprising rings which are disposed successively in the stent's longitudinal direction and which are made up of meandering circumferential supports. The stent further comprises a prosthesis material which is fixed to the rings and which connects them, thereby forming a hollow cylindrical body with a jacket which is substantially closed on the circumference thereof. At least one connecting support is provided between the last ring and the penultimate ring at the proximal end of the stent and connects these two rings to one another.
US08668728B2	Dilatation and stent delivery system and related methods The invention relates to a system for dilatation of a body passage and delivery of a stent into the body passage of a patient, and related methods of using such a system. The dilatation and stent delivery system may comprise a dilatation catheter having an expandable member on a distal end, and a stent delivery catheter configured to retain a stent and deliver the stent to a body passage. The stent delivery catheter defines a lumen sized to receive the dilatation catheter and permit movement of the dilatation catheter relative to the stent delivery catheter.
US08668723B2	Anterior cervical plate An anterior cervical plate system is provided. The cervical plate includes a retention ring with a deflectable flange that is upwardly spaced from the top surface of the ring and configured to prevent an inserted bone fastener from backing out of the plate. The plate includes a locking pin having a camming surface and a blocking surface. When the camming surface is moved into position adjacent to the flange, the flange is free to flex out of the way of a bone screw being inserted into or removed from the plate. When the blocking surface is positioned adjacent to the flange, outward deflection of the flange is prevented to retain the bone screw inside the plate. The locking pin is rotated through a camming surface to bring a blocking surface against the flange deflecting the flange onto the head of the bone screw.
US08668720B2	Disc distraction device A disc distraction device comprising a first pedicle screw having a mounting end and a head end, a second pedicle screw having a mounting end and a head end, a rigid interconnection member coupled proximate the head end of both the first and second pedicle screws, and a spring member coupled to the first and second pedicle screws closer to the mounting ends of the pedicle screws than the rigid interconnection member.
US08668718B2	Methods and apparatus for fixing sheet-like materials to a target tissue A staple for attaching a sheet-like implant to tissue or bone may, include first and second arms, and first and second flukes. In some embodiments, the first arm has a proximal end and a distal end, and the second arm has a proximal end and a distal end. A bridge extends from the proximal end of the first arm to the proximal end of the second arm. The first fluke has a proximal end abutting the distal end of the first arm, and the first fluke extends distally from the first arm. The first fluke has a lateral extent larger than a lateral extent of the first arm and is mounted eccentrically thereto. The first fluke includes a proximal surface projecting at an outward angle in a proximal direction away from the distal end of the first arm to engage the tissue or bone when inserted therein. The second fluke has similar features. This arrangement causes the first and second flukes to rotate in response to a pullout force on the bridge. Methods for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue are also disclosed.
US08668717B2	Over-the-wire exclusion device and system for delivery A modification to allow delivery of a two port medical flow restrictor over a guidewire, and a means to mechanically collapse the new device. A thin walled, foil-like shell, is compacted for delivery. The invention includes the device, delivery assemblies, and methods of placing, and using, the device. A device with an aneurysm lobe and an artery lobe self-aligns its waist at the neck of an aneurysm as the device shell is pressure expanded. Mechanical force collapses both the aneurysm lobe and the artery lobe, captivating the neck of the aneurysm and securing the device. The device works for aneurysms at bifurcations and aneurysms near side-branch arteries. The device, unlike endovascular coiling, excludes the weak neck of the aneurysm from circulation, while leaving the aneurysm relatively empty. Unlike stent-based exclusion, the device does not block perforator arteries. This exclusion device can also limit flow through body lumens or orifices.
US08668716B2	Over-the-wire exclusion device and system for delivery A modification to allow delivery of a two port medical flow restrictor over a guidewire, and a means to mechanically collapse the new device. A thin walled, foil-like shell, is compacted for delivery. The invention includes the device, delivery assemblies, and methods of placing, and using, the device. A device with an aneurysm lobe and an artery lobe self-aligns its waist at the neck of an aneurysm as the device shell is pressure expanded. Mechanical force collapses both the aneurysm lobe and the artery lobe, captivating the neck of the aneurysm and securing the device. The device works for aneurysms at bifurcations and aneurysms near side-branch arteries. The device, unlike endovascular coiling, excludes the weak neck of the aneurysm from circulation, while leaving the aneurysm relatively empty. Unlike stent-based exclusion, the device does not block perforator arteries. This exclusion device can also limit flow through body lumens or orifices.
US08668713B2	Vascular filter device A vascular filter device (1) comprises a plurality of filter elements (6) which are movable from a capturing position to an open position upon elapse of a predetermined period of time. In the capturing position the filter elements (6) are configured to capture thrombus passing through the inferior vena cava. In the open position the filter elements (6) are configured to facilitate unrestricted blood flow. The filter elements (6) are biased towards the open position. The filter (1) comprises a holder member (10) to temporarily hold the filter elements (6) in the capturing position until elapse of the predetermined period of time. The holder member (10) comprises a biostable wire element (12) which extends through an opening (13) in each filter element (6), and a biodegradable/bioabsorbable stop element (11). Upon biodegrading/bioabsorbing of the stop element (11), the filter elements (6) are free to move from the capturing position to the open position.
US08668705B2	Latching anchor device An anchor that secures to a connector as part of an anchor assembly is disclosed. The proximal anchor includes a pair of spaced apart prongs which join together at a slot inception. The prongs are shaped and sized of a configuration to define a catch or latching structure. The prongs are configured to capture and deform the suture between the protrusions and prevent the suture from disengaging from the slotted anchor device once engaged.
US08668699B2	Multi-function orthopedic instrument Instrumentation is disclosed for use in orthopedic surgery that is capable of use as a compressor, a distractor, and a rod bender. Two pivoting arms have ends that can be used to compress implants, bones, or bone fragments together or to distract such items apart. In orthopedic surgery in which a rod, bar, plate, or other support is used, the instrument may be used to introduce bends into such supports so that the orthopedic structures (e.g. vertebrae) remain in a desired portion. Additional features are provided that permit verification of size of implantable items and packing of material in intervertebral spacers and similar devices.
US08668694B2	Bone fixation assemblies and methods of use Intramedullary rod and blade assemblies and methods of implanting said assemblies are disclosed herein. The assemblies provided herein are useful in treating distal, proximal fractures, among other conditions, in large bones including, but not limited to: femurs, tibias, and humeri. Preferred assemblies can include an intramedullary rod having a proximal end and coupling means configured to securely attach to a blade, such that no portion of the rod or the coupling means extend into the fractured fragment beyond the blade. Further preferred assemblies include intramedullary rods that connect in the center of the internal blade, or substantially so, such that the rod and blade form a “T-shape,” or substantially so.
US08668691B2	Electrosurgical tissue sealer and cutter A surgical instrument comprises an end effector including a pair of jaw members configured to move with respect to one another between an open configuration and a closed configuration for clamping tissue. At least one jaw member includes an elongate cam slot extending in a longitudinal direction over a substantial a length a tissue clamping surface of the at least one jaw member. A plurality of electrically isolated, and longitudinally spaced electrodes is supported by the tissue clamping surface and is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue. A reciprocating member engages the elongate cam slot and is extendable to a sealing position with respect to each of the electrodes to define a predetermined gap distance between a particular electrode and an opposing tissue clamping surface.
US08668689B2	In-line vessel sealer and divider An endoscopic forceps includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto, the shaft including a pair of jaw members disposed at a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly disposed in the housing which moves the jaw members relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for manipulating tissue. A pair of handles is operatively connected to the drive assembly and the handles are movable relative to the housing to actuate the drive assembly to move the jaw members. Each of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy for treating tissue. The forceps also includes a first switch disposed on the housing which is activatable to selectively deliver energy of a first electrical potential to at least one jaw member for treating tissue in a monopolar fashion. A second switch is disposed on the housing and is activatable to selectively deliver energy of a first electrical potential to one jaw member and selectively deliver energy of a second electrical potential to the other jaw member for treating tissue in a bipolar fashion.
US08668686B2	Sensing contact of ablation catheter using differential temperature measurements Tissue ablation is carried out using insertion tube having at least one ablation electrode, a first temperature sensor disposed on the distal portion sufficiently proximate the ablation electrode to detect heat generated during the ablation procedure, a second temperature sensor disposed on the distal portion sufficiently distant from the ablation electrode to be unable to detect the heat, and electronic logic circuitry linked to the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor and programmed to compute a temperature differential between respective temperatures sensed by the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor when conveying the electromagnetic energy. Satisfactory contact status between the ablation electrode and the target tissue is indicated when the temperature differential exceeds a predetermined threshold.
US08668685B2	Electric operation system When a treatment instrument is connected to the corresponding device (electric scalpel device or ultrasonic wave generation device), the device (electric scalpel device or ultrasonic wave generation device) transmits information related to the type, mode, and setting of the treatment instrument to a system controller. Accordingly, if a new treatment instrument is used, the system controller can perform display information related to the new treatment instrument and control the new treatment instrument. Even when the system controller is used in combination with newly-developed electric cautery knife and other treatment instruments, the system controller can obtain fixed information related to the respective medical instruments, thus increasing the operationality. Even if wrong setting is performed outside the ratings of the instruments in the system controller, the instruments can be prevented from damage such as dielectric breakdown on the basis of the obtained fixed information.
US08668681B2	Multi-chamber container A multi-chamber container of two liquid mixing type, aiming for obtaining an increased reliability for preventing an administration from being practiced under a non separated condition of a weak seal.The medical bag 10 has an outer peripheral strong seal 14 and a weak seal 18 for separating the space inside the medical bag into two partitions 20 and 22. At the tip end of an outlet port 12, a flap 28 as a valve member is provided, which usually closes the outlet port 12 to the space inside the medical bag. The flap 28 is connected to the opposite surface of the medical bag, so that the flap 28 is displaced in cooperation with an expansion deformation of the medical bag as obtained when the weak seal 18 is opened, resulting in opening of the outlet port 12. The flap is formed with a small hole 44 for limiting a liquid flow amount to a small value. When an infusion operation being started under the non-opened state of the weak seal, the liquid flow amount to the outlet port is restricted to a small amount by the small hole 44, thereby notifying the non-opened state of the weak seal and warning that the weak seal should be opened.
US08668675B2	Wearable drug delivery device having spring drive and sliding actuation mechanism A drug delivery device is provided. The drug delivery device includes a drug reservoir in fluid communication with a microneedle array. The drug delivery device has a sliding actuation mechanism that may be activated by a button or lever. Actuation of the drug delivery device inserts the microneedle array into the skin of a subject and causes a piston to compress the drug reservoir, thereby delivering the drug through the microneedle array to the subject.
US08668672B2	Methods and apparatuses for detecting occlusions in an ambulatory infusion pump An improved pump, reservoir and reservoir piston are provided for controlled delivery of fluids. A motor is operably coupled to a drive member, such as a drive screw, which is adapted to advance a plunger slide in response to operation of the motor. The plunger slide is removably coupled to the piston. Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for automatically detecting an occlusion in a medication infusion pump are provided. The electrical current to an infusion pump may be measured. Based on measurements of one or more variables, such as force, the infusion pump detects whether there is an occlusion in the system. The methods of detecting occlusions may be dynamic.
US08668670B2	Automatic injection devices An injection device comprises a syringe extendible against a spring bias from a retracted position in a housing to a projecting injecting position. A spring biased plunger has collapsible elbows which, when the plunger is released, initially engage the end of the syringe to drive it to the projecting position, whereupon arresting of the syringe movement causes the elbows to collapse inside the syringe to allow the plunger to engage and drive the bung.
US08668663B2	Device for the repeated piercing of a skin with a hand-held device, a needle module and a method for assembling the hand-held device The invention relates to a device for the repeated piercing of a skin, with a hand-held device (1), which has a drive module (2) with a drive unit (4) that is configured for the purpose of producing a driving force, and a needle module (3) in which a piercing apparatus (6) is moveably located in the longitudinal direction of the needle module (3) and which is detachably coupled to the drive module (2) in such a way that the driving force is conducted into the piercing apparatus (6), wherein the needle module (3) has identification means (14) which can be evaluated with an evaluation apparatus (13) allocated to the identification means (14) and enclosed by the drive module (2). Furthermore, the invention relates to a needle module as well as a method for assembling the hand-held device.
US08668662B2	Anti-obesity devices Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the pyloric portion of the gastrointestinal system and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device in the pyloric portion and a flexible sleeve that extents into the duodenum. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.
US08668661B2	Knee brace A knee brace, for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the knee, that includes an elastic base that covers the knee and adjacent portions of the leg of a person, a mesh support layer covering an upper portion of the base and extending below the knee when the brace is worn, and a below-knee support panel made of an inelastic sheet material. The mesh support layer can have a symmetric construction, and can have overlapping ears, although this is not required. Alternative embodiments of a knee brace according to the present invention can include a mesh support layer that covers the patella tendon, or a mesh support layer that encircles the kneecap.
US08668659B2	Finger motion assisting apparatus It is an object of the present invention to provide a finger motion assisting apparatus that can be attached to a user without precise positioning or aligning the mechanism parts and substantially without size-fitting operation caused by physical size difference. According to the finger motion assisting apparatus of the present invention, the wire guide group 30 includes the first wire guide group 31 located on the palm side of the phalanxes 10, and the second wire guide group 32 located on the back side of the phalanxes 10, the wire is fixed to the finger holding member 20 located on the distal phalanx, the wire 40 includes the first wire 41 inserted through the first wire guide group 31, and the second wire 42 inserted through the second wire guide group 32, and the driving unit 53, 54 loosens the second wire 42 when the first wire 41 is pulled, and loosens the first wire 41 when the second wire 42 is pulled.
US08668658B2	Derating method for therapeutic applications of high intensity focused ultrasound Methods of derating a nonlinear ultrasound field and associated systems are disclosed herein. A method of derating a nonlinear ultrasound field in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology can include, for example, calibrating an ultrasound source to a first source voltage (Vw) and generating a nonlinear acoustic wave from the ultrasound source into water. The method can further include measuring a focal waveform of the nonlinear acoustic wave and determining a second source voltage (Vt) of the ultrasound source that generates the same focal waveform in tissue.
US08668655B2	Device for collecting a tissue sample from an animal The invention relates to a device for collecting a tissue sample from an animal, comprising: a collection means having at least one cutting element (21) for cutting a tissue sample from the animal, and a means for storing said sample. According to the invention, the collection means also includes a push element (23) which can move in relation to the cutting element (21) in order to push the sample into the storage means after the sample has been cut with said cutting element (21).
US08668652B2	Airway bypass site selection and treatment planning This invention relates to systems and methods for site selection and placement of extra-anatomic passages altering gaseous flow in a diseased lung.
US08668648B2	Contrast agent destruction effectiveness determination for medical diagnostic ultrasound imaging The effectiveness of contrast agent destruction is determined. Locations of ineffectively destroyed contrast agents are identified. The response from undestroyed contrast agents may be distinguished from response from tissue due to saturation or from rapid perfusion. The locations may be highlighted on resulting images, indicating to the user locations not associated with perfusion. The user may make a diagnosis on perfusion rather than a lack of destruction of contrast agents.
US08668647B2	Bandpass sampling for elastography The characterization of tissue viscoelastic properties requires the measurement of tissue displacements over a region of interest at frequencies that exceed significantly the frame rates of conventional medical imaging devices. The present invention involves using bandpass sampling to track high-frequency tissue displacements. With this approach, high frequency signals limited to a frequency bandwidth can be sampled and reconstructed without aliasing at a sampling frequency that is lower than the Nyquist rate. With bandpass sampling, it is feasible to use conventional beam-forming on diagnostic ultrasound machines to perform high frequency dynamic elastography. The method is simple to implement as it does not require beam interleaving, additional hardware or synchronization and can be applied to magnetic resonance elastography.
US08668644B2	Method of predicting acute cardiopulmonary events and survivability of a patient A method of producing an artificial neural network capable of predicting the survivability of a patient, including: storing in an electronic database patient health data comprising a plurality of sets of data, each set having at least one of a first parameter relating to heart rate variability data and a second parameter relating to vital sign data, each set further having a third parameter relating to patient survivability; providing a network of nodes interconnected to form an artificial neural network, the nodes comprising a plurality of artificial neurons, each artificial neuron having at least one input with an associated weight; and training the artificial neural network using the patient health data such that the associated weight of the at least one input of each artificial neuron is adjusted in response to respective first, second and third parameters of different sets of data from the patient health data.
US08668643B2	Patient-worn medical monitoring device One embodiment of a medical monitor includes a lanyard and an electronic package supported in the manner of a pendant. Another embodiment of a medical monitor attaches adhesively to a patient. Both embodiments include a reusable portion housing electronic components for processing measurements of the patient's physiological condition, and a disposable portion including a battery. The physiological measurements may be transmitted to a remote location along with a signal identifying the patient.
US08668640B2	Methods and apparatus for imaging using a light guide bundle and a spatial light modulator Endoscopes and other viewing devices that control the light that contacts a sample and/or that is detected emanating from a sample. The viewing devices are particularly well suited for in vivo imaging, although other uses are also included. The viewing devices, and methods related thereto, comprise a spatial light modulator in the illumination and/or detection light path so that light transmitted to the target via a bundle of light guides or optical system is transmitted substantially only into the cores of the light guide bundle and not into the cladding surrounding the light guides, filler between the light guides in the bundle, or undesired light guides. Also, methods and apparatus for mapping the pixels of the spatial light modulator to the cores of the light guides in the bundle (preferably at least 3 pixels (e.g., at least 3 mirrors for a digital micromirror device) for each core), as well as for mapping the light guides of one light guide bundle to another.
US08668639B2	Image obtainment method and apparatus In an image-obtainment-apparatus that obtains an image of an observation-region by imaging, by an imaging-device, light output from the observation-region illuminated with illumination-light, when the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region is less than or equal to first-threshold-value, the electronic-shutter-speed is controlled at first-constant-speed, and the light-amount of the illumination-light is controlled based on the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region. When the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region is greater than first-threshold-value and less than or equal to second-threshold-value, the electronic-shutter-speed is controlled at a speed based on the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region, and the light-amount of the illumination-light is controlled at a predetermined constant light-amount. When the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region is greater than second-threshold-value, the electronic-shutter-speed is controlled at second-constant-speed, and the light-amount of the illumination-light is controlled based on the light-amount of the illumination-light illuminated the observation-region.
US08668638B2	Method and system for automatically maintaining an operator selected roll orientation at a distal tip of a robotic endoscope In a robotic endoscope system, the orientation of a captured camera view at a distal tip of a robotic endoscope and displayed on a screen viewable by an operator of the endoscope is automatically maintained at a roll orientation associated with a setpoint so as not to disorient the operator as the endoscope is moved, flexed and its tip turned in different orientations. A processor generates a current commanded state of the tip from operator input and modifies it to maintain the setpoint roll orientation. To generate the modified current commanded state, the current commanded roll position and velocity are constrained to be a modified current commanded roll position and velocity that have been modified according to a roll angular adjustment indicated by a prior process period commanded state of the tip and the setpoint. The processor then commands the robotic endoscope to be driven to the modified commanded state.
US08668636B2	Electronic endoscope system, processor for electronic endoscope, and method of displaying vascular information Illumination light projected into a body cavity includes first to third narrowband rays of different wavelength ranges, at least one of these narrowband rays has a central wavelength of not more than 450 nm. Under these narrowband rays, first to third narrowband image signals are respectively obtained through an endoscope. Based on the first to third narrowband image signals, vascular areas containing blood vessels are determined, and a first luminance ratio between the first and third narrowband signals and a second luminance ratio between the second and third narrowband signals are calculated at every pixel of the vascular areas. From the calculated first and second luminance ratios, information about both the depth and oxygen saturation of the blood vessels is acquired with reference to correlation data that correlates the first and second luminance ratios to the vessel depth and the oxygen saturation.
US08668633B2	Waist and hip developer A waist and hip developer includes a track curving smoothly upwardly toward two distal ends thereof and having two stop members respectively located at two distal ends thereof, foot members affixed to the track for supporting the track on the floor steadily, a slide slidably coupled to the track with rollers thereof and movable back and forth along the track between the stop members, a seat rotatably supported on the slide with a ball bearing, two grips respectively affixed to the two distal ends of the track, and a counter for counting of the number of reciprocating cycles of the slide moving by the user sitting on the seat.
US08668628B2	Electric treadmill with a folding mechanism by use of two swivel pieces An electric treadmill with a folding mechanism by use of two swivel pieces includes a handrail frame mounted at both sides of the front end of the base frame. A base frame swivel piece is pivotally positioned at both sides near the front part of the bottom of the base frame, respectively. A handrail frame swivel piece is pivotally disposed near the bottom of the handrail frames, respectively. A pull rod is pivotally interposed between the swivel pieces. A movable support with ground-touching rollers is pivotally coupled to a cross shaft of the base frame swivel pieces. Moreover, the movable support is constantly biased by a telescopic supporting element. In this way, an action bar of the telescopic supporting element pushes the movable support forward when the base frame is folded upwards. Meanwhile, the ground-touching rollers are constantly in contact with the ground. Accordingly, a stable folded-up position is achieved.
US08668627B2	Free terrain elliptical exercise apparatus The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that simulates walking and jogging with arm exercise. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine having separately supported pedals for the feet and arm exercise coordinated with the motion of the feet where the pedal stride length is determined by the movements of an operator. Crank arms are positioned on the framework rearward the operator. Easy starting occurs in the default mode.
US08668626B1	Wireless pressure sensing rock climbing handhold and dynamic method of customized routing A handhold for rock climbing for attachment to a constructed wall with a screw, for wireless communication with a remote computer, comprises: a) a body having a rear generally flat side portion and an integrated peripheral side portions wherein an upper peripheral portion is adapted to be grasped, said body having an interior cavity; b) an elongate cylindrical hole extending through the body sized to closely receive the screw for attachment to the constructed wall; c) a circuit, generally positioned within the interior cavity, containing a microprocessor, a pressure sensor to detect force on the handhold created by a user, a light emission device, a wireless transmission antenna; and d) a power source. In conjunction with the remote computer the circuit can be activated, the light emission device can be lit, and information generated in the handhold can be restored for recall at a later time.
US08668625B1	Cruise control using propulsion and retarding capabilities of machine A method and system for managing cruise control in a machine provide for maintaining a speed of the machine at a target speed in the absence of an acceleration or deceleration command from an operator of the machine. When a deceleration command is received from the operator of the machine the machine is slowed below the target speed while the deceleration command is received and is returned to the target speed when the deceleration command is no longer received.
US08668623B2	Engine braking primary clutch for CVT systems A continuously variable transmission (CVT) system including a primary clutch assembly with an engine braking assembly is provided. The primary clutch assembly includes first and second sheave assemblies, a cylindrical sleeve coupler and an engine braking assembly. The first sheave portion has a centrally extending post. The cylindrical sleeve coupler is rotationally mounted on a portion of the post. The sleeve coupler has an engaging surface that is configured to engage an inner face of a drive belt. The second sheave portion has a central passage that is rotationally mounted on the sleeve coupler. The engine braking assembly is operatively coupled to the second sheave portion and the sleeve coupler to axially move the second sheave portion toward the first sheave portion to engage first and second side faces of the drive belt when the sleeve coupler attempts to overrun the post of the first sheave portion in a rotational direction provided by a rotational output of an engine operatively coupled to the primary clutch.
US08668620B2	Caulked retaining member, method for retaining member by caulking, structure of caulked retaining member, and caulking apparatus During a caulking process, a pressure is applied to a pressure receiving shoulder portion in the same direction as a direction of a clamping force generated by a caulking portion. The clamping force for holding an outer race can thereby be increased. Also, a pressure receiving surface of the pressure receiving shoulder portion is set higher than an end face. Thus, no pressure resulting from plastic deformation in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the clamping force of the caulking portion is generated. In addition, a groove is formed between the pressure receiving shoulder portion and an end serving as the caulking portion.
US08668617B2	Variable transmission A transmission system having an input shaft for receiving/imparting rotation into the transmission system and an output shaft for delivering rotation from the transmission system, a flywheel component which has a ring gear portion and planet gear portion, wherein rotation of the input shaft causes rotation of the flywheel component, a first transmission shaft and a first transmission component, wherein rotation and/or orbital motion of the flywheel component is affected by the rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission shaft and by the rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission component, a second transmission shaft, wherein the first transmission component rotates if the second transmission shaft rotates, a second transmission component which rotates if the second transmission shaft rotates, wherein rotation or non-rotation of the second transmission component and rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission shaft affect the overall/net output shaft rotation, at least one modulator shaft the rotation or non-rotation of which is linked with the rotation or non-rotation of one of the transmission shafts, wherein a continuously variable accelerating or retarding torque can be applied to the modulator to accelerate or retard the rotation of the transmission shaft with which the modulator is linked, whereby this continuously variable acceleration or retarding of the rotation of the transmission shaft enables continuous variation of the speed and/or direction of the output rotation relative to the input rotation.
US08668614B2	High torque traction drive Disclosed is high torque traction drive. The high torque traction drive utilizes planet gears that engage the inner mesh of a ring gear. The planet gears are mounted in rollers that have inner traction surfaces that engage sloped ring traction surfaces on traction rings that are attached to the ring gear. The sloped traction interface causes the rollers to move inwardly when forced toward the traction rings. The inward force on the rollers creates a shaft traction interface between a shaft and outer traction surfaces on the roller, so that rotational mechanical energy is effectively transferred between the rollers, the shaft and the ring gear. High rotational speeds can be achieved with a high degree of torque. Speed reduction ratios of at least 10:1 or greater can be achieved. The high speed drive may include exhaust turbines, steam turbines, including a Tesla turbine or Schumacher turbine, compressors, combinations of turbines and compressors, high speed pumps, dentist drills, or other devices that operate with high rotational speed.
US08668610B1	Electro-hydraulic servo synchronizer for MW wind turbine generator system An electro-hydraulic servo synchronizer for MW wind turbine generator system includes a 2K-H differential planetary drive mechanism and a direct drive volume control system. The 2K-H differential planetary drive mechanism comprises a planet carrier, a planet gear, a ring gear, a sun gear, and a control gear, the input end of the planet carrier is an input shaft I, the output end of the sun gear is an output shaft II, the central shaft of the control gear is a shaft III. The direct drive volume control system comprises a constant displacement motor, a two-way constant delivery pump and a servo motor, the servo motor is connected with the two-way constant delivery pump, the two-way constant delivery pump is connected with the constant displacement motor, and the constant displacement motor is connected with the shaft III, so as to drive the control gear.
US08668609B2	Inverted tooth chain sprocket with frequency modulated meshing An inverted tooth chain drive system includes a sprocket supported for rotation about an axis of rotation and including a plurality of teeth defined relative to respective tooth centers. The tooth centers are spaced evenly in a circumferential arrangement about the axis of rotation, and each of the plurality of teeth includes an engaging flank. An inverted tooth chain is engaged with the sprocket and includes a plurality of rows of links each structured for inside flank engagement with the sprocket, with leading inside flanks of each row of links projecting outwardly relative to the trailing outside flanks of a preceding row of links. The leading inside flanks of each row are positioned to make initial meshing contact with the engaging flank of one of the sprocket teeth. At least some of the teeth are standard teeth and other ones of the teeth are flank-relieved teeth. The engaging flanks of the flank-relieved teeth are negatively offset relative to their respective tooth centers as compared to said engaging flanks of said standard teeth relative to their respective tooth centers. The root surfaces leading the flank-relieved teeth are raised relative to the root surfaces leading the standard teeth and are also inclined.
US08668607B2	Driving pulley of a continuously variable transmission The driving pulley has a fully clutched mode of operation where a drivebelt and a driveshaft are coupled together in a torque transmitting engagement and also has an unclutched mode of operation where there is substantially no torque transmitting engagement between the drive belt and the driveshaft. The driving pulley comprises at least one transitional clutch spring that is in a first position when the driving pulley is in the unclutched mode of operation and that is in a second position when the driving pulley is in the fully clutched mode of operation. The at least one transitional clutch spring remains substantially in its second position regardless of the relative axial distance between the sheaves when the driving pulley is in the fully clutched mode of operation. A method of operating a driving pulley is also disclosed. The proposed concept provides a smoother engagement during the transition from the unclutched mode to the fully clutched mode.
US08668605B1	Arrow outsert An arrow outsert preferably includes a first end and a second end. An arrow point bore is formed in the first end of the arrow outsert to receive a cylindrical portion of an arrow point. An arrow shaft bore is formed in the second end of the arrow outsert to receive an arrow shaft. An outer surface of the arrow outsert is preferably tapered starting at the second end. A female thread is formed through a middle of the arrow outsert to threadably engage a threaded stud of the arrow point. A plurality of axial slots are formed in an outer perimeter of the arrow outsert. The arrow outsert is secured to an end of an arrow shaft by applying glue, adhesive or the like, before insertion into the arrow shaft bore. The threaded stud of the arrow point is threaded into the female thread to complete assembly.
US08668601B1	Golf club head with a compression-molded, thin-walled aft body A golf club head composed of a face component and an aft body composed of a long fiber material. The aft body is composed of a compression molded material. The compression molded aft-body is composed of two pieces which are bonded to a metal face component.
US08668590B2	Integrating social networking and wagering systems A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include determining that an event occurs to a wagering game player account during a wagering game session, determining a player-owned social network account associated with the wagering game player account, connecting to the player-owned social network account, and presenting a notification of the event on the player-owned social network account. In some embodiments, the operations can also include providing social network rewards and wagering game awards for the event to the player-owned social network account, or to other social network accounts associated with the player-owned social network account. In some embodiments, the operations can also include determining social activity performed by the other social network accounts and presenting notifications of the social activity by the other social network accounts to the wagering game player account during the wagering game session.
US08668587B2	Method of determining quality of service for on-line gaming in a network In a method and a device for determining the perceived quality of service for a wireless gaming service a perceived gaming quality is determined based on measurable game and transport parameters.
US08668586B2	Controlling and presenting online wagering games A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include receiving login information to log in to an online gaming venue and determining a player account associated with the login information. The operations can also include presenting the online gaming venue on a personal computing device associated with the player account. The online gaming venue can include casino related data that indicates ambience of a gambling environment (e.g., a casino, a poker room, etc.), interactive objects to interact with the player account, and communication functions to share recorded activity and other personal information, between the player account and other player accounts within the online gaming venue. In some embodiments, the operations can also include determining indications of player emotions and presenting multi-media files in conjunction with player avatars to represent the indicated emotions within the online gaming venue.
US08668582B1	Accommodating latency in a server-based application Disclosed systems and methods facilitate a server-based gaming environment. In one implementation, a method includes transmitting a video stream of a gaming environment and a region definition for an object in the gaming environment to a client device. A result of a comparison of a location of a selection input in the gaming environment to the region definition is received from a client device. The result indicates that the location of the selection input identifies an area within the region definition. The object is selected based on the selection input corresponding to the region definition.
US08668579B2	Method and apparatus for providing a time based award A method is provided for providing payments at a gaming device, where the payments may occur at predictable times and are of predictable amounts. In one or more embodiments, a gaming device may provide a guaranteed payment every hour on the hour, so long as a player meets one or more criteria. Criteria may include a total amount wagered, a total number of handle pulls completed, or a total amount of time spent at a gaming device. One or more embodiments provide a method for withholding value from a player in order that the value may delivered later in the form of a guaranteed payment. One or more embodiments provide a method whereby multiple gaming devices may provide payments simultaneously, thereby creating mutually reinforcing sounds and visual displays.
US08668578B2	Regulated games: multi-act games Creative multi-act games for the younger generation of casino players accustomed to creative simulation games such as “The Sims®” and familiar TV characters such as the cast of “Friends”. Stories unfold through acts that have been staged by the player by selecting and placing acting objects. A palette of betting opportunities may be provided in each act in accordance with the staged act to allow the player(s) to place bets. A typical storyboard may include three acts: (a) a construction act, (b) a testing act and (c) a destruction or resolution act. The unfolding of acts may be non-linear and several players may participate simultaneously, sharing the opportunity to affect a storyboard's direction through decision-making.
US08668577B2	Method for playing a video gaming machine A gaming system whereby the gaming system receives a wager to initiate a first play of a game, the first play of the game having a first average expected payout and including a plurality of symbols, wherein at least two of the symbols are different. In one embodiment, for the first play of the game the gaming system randomly generates a plurality of the symbols, displays the randomly generated symbols, determines any awards associated with the displayed symbols, and displays any determined awards. If the displayed symbols include a designated symbol, the gaming system of this embodiment accumulates the designated symbol. When a designated quantity of the designated symbol is accumulated, for a subsequent play of the game, the gaming system automatically causes the subsequent play of the game to have a second different average expected payout.
US08668573B1	Gaming device and method of issuing a bonus award A method for conducting a game includes defining at least one bonus selection event and at least one bonus award event. Play of a game is monitored for the occurrence of a bonus selection event. In response to a bonus selection event, a bonus selection apparatus is controlled to select one or more bonus award indicia. The bonus award indicia are stored and displayed at a bonus award escrow display. In response to a bonus award event, a bonus award associated with a bonus award indicia stored and displayed at the bonus award escrow display is issued to the player.
US08668569B2	Number selection game with redraw and feature award rounds A redraw round and feature round are provided to supplement a game of chance. The game of chance may be implemented on a gaming machine or in a traditional manner as described. The game of chance is based on matching player selected spot numbers or player card numbers to randomly generated numbers. The redraw round is triggered if a predetermined number of redraw trigger numbers are generated and displayed as drawn numbers. In the redraw round the gaming machine generates redraw numbers which supplement the draw numbers. A comparison between the combined set of draw and redraw numbers to the player spot numbers occurs and if a predetermined number of matches occur the player is provided an award. A feature round occurs if a predetermined number of feature trigger numbers are drawn. The feature round provides one or more random award to the player.
US08668566B2	Amusement device for secondary games Various embodiments of amusement devices and methods for various games are described. In some embodiments, a secondary player may engage in a game started by a first player. Various additional methods and apparatus are described.
US08668565B2	Controlling cross-application wagering game content A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include determining content from both a first wagering game application and from a second wagering game application. The first and second wagering game applications can be independent wagering game applications played by a player account during a wagering game session. The operations can further include determining some portion of the second content (e.g., three-dimensional objects) that appears to originate from a second-application domain (e.g., from within confines of the second wagering game application), and presenting the portion of the second content within a first-application domain (e.g., within confines of the first wagering game application). In some embodiments, the operations can further include presenting the portion of the second content interacting with the first content within the first-application domain (e.g., presenting three-dimensional objects from the second application interacting with three-dimensional objects of the first application).
US08668563B1	Asynchronous interactive game play Systems and methods of asynchronous interactive game play are described. In some embodiments, a method permits a first player to access a first game instance of a multiplayer online game and access a second game instance of the multiplayer online game. The second game instance is accessed at a first time. The first game instance is associated with the first player and the second game instance is associated with a second player. The method receives an identification of an in-game action performed by the first player in the second game instance while the first player accesses the second game instance. The second player is permitted to access the second game instance at a second time, which is later than the first time. The method causes display to the second player an identification of the in-game action performed by the first player in the second game instance.
US08668560B2	Shielding electronic components from liquid Shielding liquid from electronic components may be accomplished by a variety of systems, devices, and techniques. A shielding may include a substantially vertical channel mounted to a fuel dispenser component; an airflow inlet; a plurality of arrays of angled protrusions; and a plurality of substantially vertical protrusions. The channel is adapted to guide an airflow. The plurality of arrays of angled protrusions are, disposed within the channel and are substantially parallel in arrangement within each array. The angled protrusions within each array are angularly offset in arrangement relative to the angled protrusions within adjacent arrays. The arrays of angled protrusions are adapted to form a tortuous path for the airflow through the channel. The plurality of substantially vertical protrusions are disposed within the channel and are located between the airflow inlet and the plurality of arrays. The vertical protrusions are adapted to substantially straighten the airflow within the channel.
US08668559B2	Relating to coin dispensing A mechanism for separating single coins from a plurality of coins provided within a coin dispensing apparatus. The mechanism comprises a housing defining a coin dispensing path, coin transport means for urging coins along the coin dispensing path; and first and second biased coin stripping members located adjacent each other and disposed successively in the coin dispensing path at an outlet of the coin dispensing mechanism. The first and second stripping members together comprise a double outlet gate and each member is movable independently of the other by each urged coin to effect, in use, alignment and stripping of coins being dispensed.
US08668557B2	Optical grade surfacing tool Optical grade surfacing tool, including: a rigid support (60); an elastically compressible interface (12) attached to the rigid support (60); a flexible pad (13) adapted to be pressed against a surface (71) to be worked, attached to the interface (12) on the opposite side to the rigid support (60); and return spring elements (14) disposed between the rigid support (60) and a peripheral part (12b) of the interface (12); characterized in that the return spring elements (14) include a plurality of pairs of superposed elastically flexible blades (65, 66) that project transversely from the rigid support (60), respectively a first blade (65) having a distal portion cooperating in bearing engagement, through a first face, exclusively with the peripheral part (12b) of the interface (12), and a second blade (66) cooperating in bearing engagement with the first blade (65) via a second face opposite its first face.
US08668556B2	Portable wheel rim polisher The specification discloses a portable vehicle wheel polisher (10) having a rotatable polishing head (23) adapted to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis (15), the polisher (10) including a drive motor and gear reduction arrangement (14) connected to a drive shaft (17) for the rotatable polishing head (23), adjustable suspension means (18) enabling the horizontal rotation axis (15) to be selectably raised or lowered relative to an installed vehicle wheel on a vehicle, ground engaging wheels (12) carrying the adjustable suspension means (18) enabling the portable vehicle wheel polisher (10) to be moved to a position that engages the polishing head (23) with the installed vehicle wheel and to a separate position disengaged from the installed vehicle wheel.
US08668551B1	Garment strap clasp system A clasp has front and rear faces, an exterior periphery and an interior opening. The interior opening has upper and lower bearing surfaces. The clasp has joining surfaces coupling the bearing surfaces. A slot is formed in each clasp. The slot extends between the exterior periphery and a joining surface. Each slot has a width to allow loops of strap sections to pass through the slot between an operative orientation and an inoperative orientation. The operative orientation couples the strap sections with portions of the loops within the interior opening of the clasp in contact with the bearing surfaces. The inoperative orientation positions the strap sections exterior of the clasp.
US08668548B2	Underwire for a brassiere There is provided an underwire for a brassiere including: a plurality of linkage elements; each linkage element connected to at least one adjacent linkage element via a joint; at least one joint allowing for movement of the connected linkage element with respect to its adjacent linkage element; wherein movement of at least one connected linkage element with respect to its adjacent linkage element allows the underwire to more closely assume the curvature of a wearer's figure. A brassiere incorporating the improved underwire is also provided.
US08668543B2	Child's story themed play structure A kit for a child's play structure includes poles removably attached to one another and arranged to form a three-dimensional box-like structure of a size to permit a child to fully enter therein. A plurality of panels are attached to the poles. The panels have graphic representations thereon corresponding to at least a portion of a story or illustration, such as depicted in an accompanying storybook. Three dimensional objects may be positionable within, or removably attached to the panels, and which correspond to objects in the storybook to enhance the play experience. Multiple structures may be placed side-by-side so that a child can move from one structure to another, and thus from one portion of the story to the next.
US08668541B2	Method for manufacturing image display element A method for manufacturing an image display element including: a front panel; a back panel facing the front panel; plural pixels arranged in a matrix between the panels, and to be selected to be in a display or non-display state; and plural electrodes for controlling the pixels, the panels being bonded with the pixels and the electrodes interposed therebetween, and the electrodes being connected to a driving control circuit via metal wires, includes a first step of performing dicing from the back side of the opposing surface from the front panel, and forming a groove part such that electrode terminals connected to the electrodes are exposed between adjacent plural pixel lines, with the back panel bonded thereto, and a second step of forming the metal wires so as to be connected to the electrode terminals exposed at the groove part.
US08668540B1	Method and apparatus for separating the glass panel from a cathode ray tube An apparatus for separating a panel from a cathode ray tube may include a trough, at least one chipping element mounted in the trough; and a vibrator connected to the trough and configured such that actuation of the vibrator causes the chipping element to vibrate at a frequency and at a throw angle selected to cause the chipping element to throw a cathode ray tube placed in contact therewith upward, then move upward subsequently to contact a downwardly moving cathode ray tube with sufficient force to chip away funnel and frit therefrom. A method for separating a panel from a cathode ray tube may include contacting a funnel of the cathode ray tube with at least one chipping element, and vibrating the chipping element with sufficient force to chip at least the funnel from the cathode ray tube, leaving at least the panel.
US08668535B1	Amphibious vehicle having a single drive system for land and water operations An amphibious vehicle, mostly watercraft in appearance, has a single drive system that accelerates, propels, steers, reverses, and brakes the vehicle on land or in the water. This control is effectuated by one or both twin control levels positioned to the left and right of the vehicle operator. Rear mounted propulsions units include a paddlewheel and tire combination, which operate independently and are rotatable in either direction.
US08668532B2	Connector for low profile fuse A connector for a Low Profile (LP) fuse which has an increased fixing force, so as to prevent a secured LP fuse from being separated by external forces, such as vibration of a vehicle, etc. The connector for a Low Profile (LP) fuse includes a body, a rear member, and a pair of supporting arms. The body is adapted for insertion into a body receiving passageway of a fuse box. The body includes a lower end electrically connected to an electric wire. The rear member extends from the body into the body receiving passageway, while the pair of supporting members are bent from opposite sides of the rear member. The pair of supporting members extend parallel to each other.
US08668530B2	System plug connector The invention relates to a plug connector system for a plug connection between electrical conductors, wherein the plug connector system accommodates plug modules with electrical contacts contained therein, wherein said plug modules are first inserted laterally into a region of a holding frame, wherein a plug insert is arranged in the same and locked in place, and then subsequently slid 90° sideways in the holding frame and held in place. The housing frame is designed as a self-supporting part of the plug connector system, for the purpose of accommodating the plug modules, and can provide protection from external influences by means of a surrounding housing.In addition, in contrast to conventional arrangements used to date in plug connectors, the plug modules can be inserted into the holding frames from both sides, meaning in the direction in which the connection is made, or also in the opposite direction, and can be removed again.
US08668527B2	Electrical connector with improved contact-loading manner for coplanarity adjustment An electrical connector includes an insulative housing and a number of upper and lower contacts fixed in the insulative housing. The insulative housing includes a base and a tongue portion extending from the base along a first direction. Each of the upper contacts includes a first planar soldering section situated adjacent to a bottom face of the base. Each of the lower contacts includes a second planar soldering section situated adjacent to the bottom face of the base. The lower contacts are assembled to the insulative housing along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction in order that the second planar soldering sections can be kept coplanar with the first planar soldering sections through controlling insertion depth of the lower contacts along the second direction.
US08668526B2	Bi-ventricular percutaneous cable A percutaneous cable includes a cable body having a first end and second end, the cable body including a sheath adapted to traverse a patient's skin. The cable includes a plurality of conductors disposed within the cable body configured to transmit power and control data between a system controller and two implantable pumps. The cable includes a first connector disposed at the first end of the cable body and coupled to the plurality of conductors, the first connector configured to connect the cable body to the system controller. The cable includes a second connector disposed at the second end of the cable body, the second connector comprising a first set of contacts and a second set of contacts.
US08668524B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector includes a first insulating housing having an erect base board and an erect tongue board extending forwards from a front of the base board, flat terminals molded in the first insulating housing and having a contact portion and a first soldering tail which vertically projects under the base board, a second insulating housing assembled to a right side of the base board, and spring terminals molded in the second insulating housing and having a contact arm and a second soldering tail which vertically projects under the second insulating housing. The contact portions are exposed in a front of a right side of the tongue board and arranged at regular intervals along a vertical direction. The contact arms elastically project sideward out of the right side of the tongue board and are arranged at regular intervals along the vertical direction behind the contact portions.
US08668523B2	Cable connector assembly having a metallic shell with a plurality of through holes in a conjunction area between its shilding portion and its frame portion A cable connector assembly comprises an insulative housing (1), a number of contacts (2), a cable (6) electrically connected with the contacts, and a metallic shell (3) enclosing the insulative housing. The insulative housing includes a base portion (11) and a tongue portion (12) extending forwardly from the base portion. The metallic shell comprises a bottom shell (32) and a top shell (31) combined with each other, the top shell includes a frame shaped portion (321) in the front thereof and a shielding portion (322) connected with the frame shaped portion unitarily, and the frame shaped portion is located in a vertical plane perpendicular to an upper surface of the shielding portion, the bottom shell is inserted into and enclosed in a frame shaped opening (324) disposed in the frame shaped portion.
US08668522B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector can be provided having a plurality of connector pins, and an electrically conductive connector housing with a bottom wall and a receiving opening for receiving a counter-connector. A plurality of pin receiving openings formed in the bottom wall accommodate a dielectric insert. At least one of the connector pins extends through the dielectric insert and is fastened by the dielectric insert within the respective pin receiving opening. A slide-in module can be provided with such an electrical connector, and a method for producing such an electrical connector may also be provided.
US08668520B2	Card connector having a housing with fastening blocks for mounting a circuit board A card connector is adapted for being mounted to a circuit board defining a mounting cavity. The card connector includes an insulating housing defining a receiving room passing through a top and a front thereof, a plurality of electrical terminals disposed in the insulating housing and electrically projecting upward into the receiving room, a shielding shell enclosing the insulating housing, and a plurality of fastening blocks. A pair of side walls is formed at two opposite sides of the receiving room. The fastening blocks are apart secured to outsides of the side walls. The card connector is mounted in the mounting cavity of the circuit board, and the fastening blocks are fixed on the circuit board around the mounting cavity. Because the fastening blocks are not easily deformed, the card connector can be firmly fixed in the circuit board and avoids being slanted downward in use.
US08668517B2	Plug apparatus A plug apparatus has a first holding portion holding a stack connecting conductive wire, a second holding portion separated from the first holding portion and holding a stack connecting conductive wire, and a fixing portion to which the first and second holding portions and are removably fixed, wherein the first and second holding portions and are fixed to the fixing portion and the stack connecting conductive wires and are electrically connected to each other in a first state in which a plug grip is mounted, and the first and second holding portions and are allowed to separate from the fixing portion and the electrical connection between the stack connecting conductive wires and is broken in a second state in which the plug grip is dismounted.
US08668514B2	Connecting multiple conduits Connector modules have complementary profiles configured for sliding engagement. Modules bearing a first profile may be mounted in series, such as on a rail, on a frame or component. Modules bearing a second profile may similarly be mounted in series, such as on a rail, so that rails bearing modules with the first profile may slide into rails bearing modules with the second profile. Contacts in connectors of the module are configured to facilitate sliding engagement. Male contacts are biased to protrude, but travel into connectors in which they are mounted during sliding until aligned with corresponding female contacts.
US08668510B2	Tubular component having an electrically insulated link portion with a dielectric defining an annular sealing surface A tubular component of a drill stem comprises a first end including a first threading, a second end including a second threading, and a substantially tubular central zone, the component further comprising a device for electrical connection with another component, mounted on at least one of the ends, and a cable for the transmission of signals between the first end and the second end, connected to the connecting device, the connecting device including at least one conductor provided with an electrically insulated link portion and an electrical contact portion; a dielectric to isolate the insulated link portion; and an annular sealing surface defining a protected zone, said electrical contact portion being disposed in the protected zone, the annular sealing surface being disposed at the surface of the insulated link portion.
US08668507B2	Lamp holder connector A lamp holder connector includes a lower holder having a bottom board with two positioning pillars protruding upward thereon, and an upper holder covered on the lower holder to together define a receiving chamber. An electrical terminal is fastened in the receiving chamber, and has a base plate with two positioning holes opened therein for inserting the positioning pillars therein, and a pair of clamping plates connected with two opposite side edges of the base plate and facing each other for clamping one end of a lamp therebetween. A top end of each positioning pillar projects upward beyond a top side of the base plate and then is pressed downward by an external jig to have a deformation and form a blocking eave so as to tightly clip the base plate between the bottom board and the blocking eave.
US08668504B2	Threadless light bulb socket A threadless light socket assembly allows a light bulb to be changed by pushing or pulling the light bulb into or out of the socket provides an outer insulator housing and an insulator cap which carrying a ground socket in a medial channel that grounds a light bulb base to a power supply. Plural spring biased thread locks protrude into center of the ground socket and are staggered in height to align with threads defined in a light bulb base. A positive contact is in the socket assembly supplies positive power from a power supply to the light bulb base. The threadless light socket has interchangeable components to allow installation in new and existing light fixtures.
US08668495B2	Ceramic/metallic dental abutment A ceramic and metallic dental abutment for use with a dental implant is disclosed. The abutment can generally include a body having a base region, a coronal region, and a transgingival region disposed between the base and coronal regions. The body regions can define a longitudinal axis. The base region can include an anti-rotational feature such that, when engaged with the dental implant, an anti-rotational connection exists. The coronal and transgingival regions can include a ceramic exterior surface. The abutment can further include a metal contact portion having an annular shape and positioned to engage the dental implant. The metal contact portion can include a conical outer contact surface, disposed at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis, to match an angle of a chamfer of the dental implant.
US08668494B2	Adjustable angle prophy angle adapter An adjustable angle adapter for a prophy angle comprises a nose, a rotating member, a body, a shaft, a pivot, and a multi-axis rotation joint. The nose is configured to receive a portion of a prophy angle. The rotating member is positioned within the nose. The body is adjustably connected to the nose. The shaft is positioned within the body. The pivot connects the body to the nose and includes a groove configured for a ball bearing that is passed through a channel formed within the pivot and the body. Also, the channel is parallel to the rotational axis of the shaft. The multi-axis rotation joint connects the shaft to the rotating member. The nose is rotatable relative to the body into a first configuration and a second configuration.
US08668492B2	Removable wick A removable, candle wick for its ability to be removed from a body of meltable wax and replaced on the same body of meltable wax or placed on a different body of wax. Being anchored on a metal wick tab allows wick to be placed on top of a flat wax surface with stem portion being ignited with a flame. As wax melts the wick tab sinks into the wax and can be extinguished and removed from wax before wax hardens and then placed in a container and reused as desired. The wick will burn wax completely and evenly, and after burning a body of wax, entirely extinguished and placed on a new body of wax to start a new burning. The wick will burn as long as it comes in contact with a meltable body of wax.
US08668485B1	Dough rolling apparatus, method and product An improved dough-rolling apparatus and method for rolling sheeted dough. The proposed invention comprises a dough-rolling apparatus having a dough sheeter that cuts a dough sheet into preforms having a concave leading edge and convex trailing edge. A rolling curtain creates a rolled preform with the leading edge on the inside and the trailing edge on the outside. The rolled preform is cooked to produce a rolled snack product with consistent thickness throughout its length and a round outer flap.
US08668484B2	Mold, imprint method, and process for producing a chip A mold capable of a highly accurate alignment with a member to be processed in such a state that a photocurable resin material is disposed between the mold and the member to be processed, and is constituted by a substrate 2010 formed of a first material and an alignment mark 2102 formed of a second material different from the first material. The first material and the second material have transmissivities to light in a part of an ultraviolet wavelength range. The second material has a refractive index of not less than 1.7.
US08668482B2	Formwork and formwork method of a concrete construction In a formwork in concrete construction, particularly for a round vessel, in which, for a further construction section, formwork elements enclose an upper edge of a completed wall portion, are secured to this completed wall portion, and protrude over this wall portion for filling with concrete, vertical members are arranged parallel to, and at a distance from, the wall portion, and a slide is displaceable at every vertical member, and formwork elements are connected to the slide.
US08668475B2	Linear rod pump apparatus and method An apparatus and method for pumping fluids, such as water and/or hydrocarbons, from a subterranean formation or reservoir, include a linear rod pump having a mechanical rack and pinion drive arrangement, adapted for attachment to a pumping mechanism, such as the polished rod at the top of a rod string in a hydrocarbon well. The rack gear, of the rack and pinion drive arrangement, is adapted for connection to a cable and pulley arrangement for imparting motion to the polished rod. The pinion gear does not translate with the rack gear, and is driven by a reversible motor for affecting up and down reciprocating motion of the rack gear and pumping mechanism. Some forms of the invention include a compressible gas counter-balance arrangement. Some forms of the invention include an electronic drive configured for dealing with electric power generated by the motor during a portion of the pumping cycle.
US08668470B2	Offset valve bore for 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 has a plunger bore axis 65 or 95. The plunger bores are arranged across the fluid end to define a central plunger bore with lateral plunger bores located on either side. The fluid end 15 also comprises at least three respective suction valve bores 59 or 89 in fluid communication with the plunger bores. Each suction valve bore can receive a suction valve 41 and has a suction valve bore axis 63 or 93. The fluid end 15 also comprises at least three respective discharge valve bores 57 or 87 that can receive a discharge valve 43 and are in fluid communication with the plunger bores. Axes of suction and discharge valve bores are offset in the fluid.
US08668468B2	Oil pump system for automatic transmission A hydraulic pump system for an automatic transmission has the advantages of preventing excessive power loss and durability deterioration. The hydraulic pump system may include a first hydraulic pump that generates a first hydraulic pressure to supply a low pressure portion with the first hydraulic pump, a second hydraulic pump that receives the first hydraulic pressure to generate a second hydraulic pressure higher than the first hydraulic pressure and supplies a high pressure portion with the second hydraulic pressure, and a drive portion that rotates a drive shaft that integrally connects the first hydraulic pump with the second hydraulic pump.
US08668461B2	Wind turbine rotor blade Wind turbine rotor blade with a longitudinal axis, a blade tip, a blade root, a leading edge, a trailing edge and a cross-section arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal axis and changing from the blade root to the blade tip, is the cross-section being formed at the blade root and in the middle of the rotor blade by an aerodynamic profile, and an imaginary reference plane arranged with respect to the rotor blade which includes the longitudinal axis of the rotor blade, wherein, in a cross-section, an angle α3 is defined between the reference plane and a straight line, which connects the longitudinal axis with the trailing edge, and describes the position of the trailing edge, wherein the angle α3 increases with decreasing distance from the blade root in a first longitudinal portion of the rotor blade and decreases with decreasing distance from the blade root in a second longitudinal portion.
US08668459B2	Turbine blade walking prevention A turbine assembly has a casing, a turbine ring and a blade. The blade has a root portion having an axially extending first shape, an airfoil attaching to the root portion and having a trailing edge and a radially outward tip. The tip has a first portion disposed in parallel to the axis of rotation for minimizing escape of air between the tip and the casing and a second portion extending aft from the first portion at an inward angle. The ring has a cut-out having a second shape mating with the first shape.
US08668453B2	Cooling system having reduced mass pin fins for components in a gas turbine engine A cooling system having one or more pin fins with reduced mass for a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The cooling system may include one or more first surfaces defining at least a portion of the cooling system. The pin fin may extend from the surface defining the cooling system and may have a noncircular cross-section taken generally parallel to the surface and at least part of an outer surface of the cross-section forms at least a quartercircle. A downstream side of the pin fin may have a cavity to reduce mass, thereby creating a more efficient turbine airfoil.
US08668451B2	Fan blade mounting system A ceiling fan (10) is disclosed which has a motor (13) and an annular array of blade irons (14) each having a blade (15) mounted thereto. Each blade iron includes a body portion (18) and a mounting portion (19). The body portion (18) has a motor mounting flange (21) which includes a trapezoidal shaped groove 28 and a flat spring (32). The mounting portion (19) includes a trapezoidal shaped or dove tailed tongue (40) which has a depression (42) adapted to receive the spring to lock to the position of the body portion relative to the mounting portion.
US08668440B2	Platform segment for supporting a nozzle guide vane for a gas turbine and nozzle guide vane arrangement for a gas turbine A platform segment for supporting a nozzle guide vane for a gas turbine is provided. The platform segment includes a gas passage surface arranged to be in contact with a streaming gas exhausted from a combustor, wherein the streaming gas streams along the gas passage surface in a streaming direction, a cooling surface, opposite to and thermally connected to the gas passage surface and arranged to be in contact with a cooling fluid, a wall protruding from the cooling surface and extending at least partially in the streaming direction, wherein the wall is arranged circumferentially between positions, at which adjacent guide vanes are to be provided, such that cooling fluid is channeled by the wall for cooling a downstream portion of the cooling surface, and a further wall protruding from the cooling surface and extending at least partially in the streaming direction.
US08668439B2	Inserts for turbine cooling circuit In one embodiment, an insert for a turbine cooling circuit includes: a radial cooling passage for receiving downstream fluid; an axial passage extending from the radial cooling passage within a lower portion of the insert; and a plurality of radial passages extending from the axial passage, each radial passage extending to a bottom of a partially circumferential dovetail slot of the insert. In another embodiment, an insert for a turbine cooling includes: a plurality of radial passages, each radial passage extending from a bottom of a partially circumferential dovetail slot of the insert; an axial passage extending from the plurality of radial passages within a lower portion of the insert; and an exhaust passage extending from the axial passage.
US08668434B2	Robust flow parameter model for component-level dynamic turbine system control A system comprises an apparatus, an actuator and a processor. The apparatus defines a flow path through an aperture, the aperture defines a pressure drop along the flow path, and the actuator regulates fluid flow across the pressure drop. The processor comprises a flow module, a comparator, an estimator and a control law. The flow module maps a flow curve relating a flow parameter to a pressure ratio, and defines a solution point located on the flow curve and a focus point located off the flow curve. The comparator generates an error as a function of a slope defined between the focus and solution points. The estimator moves the solution point along the flow curve, such that the error is minimized. The control law directs the actuator to position the control element, such that the flow parameter describes the fluid flow and the pressure ratio describes the pressure drop.
US08668431B2	Seal clearance control on non-cowled gas turbine engines A method for controlling turbine blade tip seal clearance on a non-cowled gas turbine engine includes the step of directing a flow of relatively hot, pressurized air in contact with an exterior surface of the engine core casing circumscribing the turbine. The flow of relatively hot, pressurized air may be selectively directed in contact with the exterior surface of the engine core casing circumscribing the turbine when it is desired to expand the turbine shroud radially outward, such as during transient operation of the gas turbine engine.
US08668424B2	Circular bin unload system and method An unloading system for a storage bin and related method are provided. The unloading system can have a sump configuration that includes a foundation having a floor and a foundation footing. A central tunnel can be formed in the foundation that terminates at a tunnel opening on a perimeter of the foundation. A primary sump can be formed through the floor at a location generally near a centerpoint of the storage bin and connected to the central tunnel. At least one radial sump can be formed in the floor at a location radially offset from the central tunnel and located generally between the primary sump and a sidewall of the storage bin.
US08668420B2	Method for assembling composite hardware, and riveting member enabling implementation thereof The invention relates to a method for assembling parts (P1 and P2) in composite hardware by means of a riveting member (R), and is notable in that it comprises: using a bushing (200), the hollow core (230) of which has two different sections (231 and 232); using an insert (100) having no functional axial bearing surface for the radial swelling of the bushing (200) in the through-hole (T), but the diameter (D3) of which is capable of enabling the housing thereof, with no change in shape, in the first section (231) of the hollow core (230), and is also capable of enabling the forcible housing thereof in the second section (232); axially feeding the insert (100) into the bushing (200) such that the latter radially swells inside the through-hole (T) up to the small section (232) thereof and such that the recess well-defined by said small section is occupied by said insert (100); and ensuring, by means of a rivet set (400), the pressure on the first section (231) of the bushing (200) by the end that changes shape to ensure the bending thereof by radial centrifugal extension.
US08668419B2	Shearable fastening device with force transmission element A shearable fastening device (1) has a shearable fastener (2) having a plurality of screwthreaded portions (3), a head portion (4) which is connected to the screws threaded portions (3) via a first predetermined weakening (5) and further predetermined weakenings (6) in the form of cross-section constrictions are provided between the screwthreaded portions (3), as well as an internal recess (7), wherein the internal recess (7) extends from the head portion (4) at least into the region of the predetermined weakenings (6). At least one stepped predetermined weakening (8) is formed by its shear-off torque (aNm) being smaller than that of the next predetermined weakening further away from the head portion (4) and the shear-off torque (aNm+1) at the next predetermined weakening closer to the head portion (4) rising again with respect to the shear-off torque (aNm) of the stepped predetermined weakening (8). The shear-off torque of the predetermined weakenings (6) on the portions without the stepped predetermined weakening (8) increases continuously in the direction of the head portion (4), and a force transmission element (9) is insertable into the internal recess (7) of the shearable fastener (2). The force transmission element (9) in the inserted condition extends from the head portion (4) so far into the internal recess (7) such that the force transmission element (9) bridges the stepped predetermined weakening (8).
US08668418B2	Dunnage means and method for filling a void space in a container Dunnage for filling a void space in a container. An inflatable dunnage bag has an inflation valve for inflating the bag with a gas. The inflation valve is a solid member having an elevated portion. An outer surface of the bag is tightly fixed to the solid member along a circumferential sealing area distant from the top of the elevated portion. The top of the elevated portion is a circumferential sealing rim tightly contactable by the outer surface of the bag. The solid member has an inflation opening between the sealing area and the sealing rim. The bag has an inflation opening radially inward of the sealing rim.
US08668415B2	Shipping supports for tapered elongated structures A support saddle (20, 24) for supporting a load (14) having a taper profile along an axial length of the load (14). The support saddle (20, 24) comprises a lower surface (20A, 24A) for resting on a surface (10A) of a transportation vehicle load bed (10) and an upper surface (20B, 24B) defining a taper to substantially match the taper profile of the load (10) in a region of the load contacting the upper surface (20B, 24B), the upper surface (20B, 24B) for receiving the load (10). In other embodiments the support saddles (20, 24) are used with inserts (64, 65) and/or cushions (45). One or more of the support saddles (20, 24), the inserts (64, 65) and the cushions (45) may comprise a tapered upper surface to match the taper profile of the load (14).
US08668413B2	Coupler for a quick change insert rotary cutting tool A coupler for a quick change rotary cutting tool assembly allowing a cutter to be quickly and releasably coupled to a shank wherein the coupler has a cylindrical portion with a threaded portion to engage the shank and a portion with a transverse groove with undercut walls to form recesses. The cutter has an anchor made as a disk with parallel flats which engage the recesses of the cylindrical portion to releasably secure the cutter to the shank.
US08668412B2	Machining method and machine tool A minimum five-axis machine tool (11) has first to third linear feed axes orthogonal to each other as well as first and second rotational feed axes orthogonal to each other, wherein a rotational axis line of the first rotational feed axis C is parallel to the first linear feed axis Z. While a tool T and a work W are moved relatively through the second and third linear feed axes X, Y to perform machining of the work W by means of the tool T, the machine tool controls the first rotational feed axis C such that a rotational axis line of the second rotational feed axis A is perpendicular to the direction of relative movement of the perpendicular to the direction of relative movement of the tool T to the work W, and controls a power supplied to a motor for the second rotational feed axis A when a torque around the second rotational feed axis A exceeds a specified threshold.
US08668411B2	Cutting tool and holder A cutting tool has a cutting insert and a holder. The cutting insert has a cutting portion and an insert shank with a cylindrical portion and a non-cylindrical portion. The holder has a clamping portion which has a clamping sleeve and a cage located therein. The cage includes a load member housing with a load member. The cage has a major abutment wall adjacent to a minor abutment wall. The clamping sleeve has first and second inner sections defined by points P1 and P2. A point P3 divides the second inner section into first and second portions. The clamping sleeve is rotatable between a secured and a released position of the cutting tool. In the secured position, the non-cylindrical portion abuts the major abutment wall, the cylindrical portion abuts both the minor abutment wall and the load member, and the load member abuts the first portion.
US08668408B2	Skirted foundation for penetrating soft material The present invention provides a skirted foundation that can be used in a jack-up rig for providing enhanced bearing capacity. The skirted foundation comprises a spudcan footing having an upper part and a base, wherein the upper part and the base are coupled at their peripherals to form an outer edge, wherein both the upper part and the base have a flat or conical configuration, and wherein the upper part supports one leg of a jack-up rig, and the base has a flat bottom or downward slope, and a skirt having an upper end being integrally coupled to the spudcan footing and downwardly projected to encircle the base and a lower end for penetrating seabed, wherein the skirt comprises a plurality of circumferential openings adjacent to the base of the spudcan footing and located within the top half of the skirt height.
US08668405B1	Road maintenance truck with selectively deployable rollers and piston press An improved road maintenance truck includes a pair of hydraulically powered roller assemblies mounted to the underside of the vehicle frame and a vertically movable compression plate mounted to the vehicle frame. Each roller assembly has a compressive roller which runs the width of the truck. Two hydraulic actuators on each end of the vehicle raise and lower the roller into place. These independent rollers allow a road patching crew to selectively lower the roller for repairing road while initially flattening the patching material with the front roller and compacting the patching material with the rear. The compression plate is mounted to an actuator which selectively raises and lowers the compression plate to compress road patching materials. A roller heating system draws engine coolant through the rollers to heat the rollers and to reduce the heat built-up in the engine.
US08668404B2	Covering unit A covering unit for use in combination with similar units for covering a surface with a natural random look, the unit having an hexagonal body comprising first, second and third pairs of opposed and parallel sides. Each side has a central point of angular symmetry. The second and third pairs are similar to each other while the first pair is different from the others. The sides of the second and third pairs are provided with at least one split deviation along their length arranged so that each side of the second pair is a rotational image of the sides of the third pair, whereby in use in combination with other covering units: each side is matingly engageable with the sides of an equivalent pair of a neighboring unit; and the unit has a central point of angular symmetry and is matingly engageable with a plurality of neighboring unit.
US08668403B2	Load supporting panel having impact absorbing structure An impact absorption panel is adapted for playground use and comprises a panel section and a plurality of projections. The panel section is defined by a top surface and a bottom surface. The plurality of projections extend from the bottom surface of the panel section. The plurality of projections have a first stage and a second stage. The first stage is configured to collapse initially when subjected to an impact load. The second stage is configured to provide greater resistance to the impact load than the first stage. The panel section is configured to provide greater resistance to the impact load than the first and second stages. The first stage can also be distinguished from the second stage by virtue of having a comparatively smaller volume.
US08668400B2	Fluid applicator An applicator tip is provided for operating in conjunction with a pierceable fluid reservoir. Assemblies in accordance with the invention can lead to an exceptionally easy to use, safe, and convenient system and method of applying a fixed dosage of chemicals to which a user might wish to avoid contact, such as parasiticides. The cap-applicator can have an internal piercing tip capable of piercing the reservoir when the assembly is converted into an active configuration. Projections can be provided, in the form of fins on a tube or a multi-prong structure with straight or curved projections. The tips of one or more projections can include dispensing ports or the ports can be recessed from the distal tip, such as in a notch, so as not to be obstructed if the distal tip of the cap is pressed against an animal to dispense the fluid.
US08668389B2	Combination thrust flange and thrust plate A thrust bearing assembly includes a single-piece thrust plate and thrust shaft flange having a generally cylindrical body portion, a frustoconical body portion and a bore extending through the cylindrical body portion and the frustoconical body portion. The bore defines a first bore section and a second bore section. A lip extends between the first and second bore sections. The first bore section, the second bore section and the lip are configured to receive a thrust shaft and axial thrust forces transmitted therefrom. The thrust bearing assembly also includes a bearing assembly in operable communication with the single-piece thrust plate and thrust shaft flange. The bearing assembly supports rotation of the thrust shaft and includes a plurality of first rolling elements. The bearing assembly includes a bearing cage to retain the first rolling elements and a plurality of second rolling elements disposed between the bearing cage and the thrust shaft.
US08668384B2	System and method for detecting the temperature of an electrophoretic display device An apparatus includes a temperature detector coupled to a conductive layer of an electrophoretic display device. The temperature detector is operable to measure a leakage current that is responsive to a temperature associated with the electrophoretic device and determine the temperature associated with the electrophoretic device based at least in part on the measured leakage current.
US08668380B2	Method for operating a calorimeter A method for operating a calorimeter and a calorimeter that is operable to perform the method, wherein the calorimeter has a reactor (1) for receiving a reaction medium, a reactor jacket (2), an in-reactor heater (4) controlled by means of a first controller (6), an outer temperature control unit (9) in thermal contact with the reactor and controlled by a second controller (10), and a measurement sensor (5) arranged in the reactor for determining a reactor temperature (Tr). The reactor temperature is controlled by the heat which is delivered to the reactor by the in-reactor heater and by the heat that is carried in and/or out by the outer temperature control unit. A dynamic control of the heating power of the in-reactor heater and of the outer temperature control unit is used to eliminate any deviation of the reactor temperature from a reactor set-point temperature.
US08668379B2	Watch display assembly Watch display assembly including a watch support element (2), characterized in that the support element (2) is arranged to rotate on two perpendicular axes (X-X; Y-Y).
US08668369B2	Lighting device for vehicles and a method for producing it The invention relates to a lighting device for vehicles, having a housing, a translucent diffusing screen covering a light exit opening of the housing, and a reflector. The translucent diffusing screen and the reflector may be fastened to the housing. A rapidly curing connection means may be applied to at least one interface between the housing and the diffusing screen to facilitate positioning.
US08668367B2	Interchangeable lamp shade system A lamp shade cover that fits snugly over a lamp shade or lamp shade liner to provide interchangeable lamp shade decor with a tailored look. In embodiments, a separating closure mechanism attaches sides of the lamp shade cover together to form a lamp shade form that fits snugly over the supporting lamp shade or lamp shade liner. In embodiments, the separating closure mechanism is a separating zipper sewn into either side of the lamp shade cover. Embodiments include an interchangeable lamp shade system that includes a lamp shade liner and one or more lamp shade covers that fit snugly over the lamp shade liner and are removable via the separating closure mechanism of the lamp shade cover.
US08668366B2	Energy star compliant LED lamp The present disclosure provides an illumination device. The illumination device includes a cap structure. The cap structure is partially coated with a reflective material operable to reflect light. The illumination device includes one or more lighting-emitting devices disposed within the cap structure. The light-emitting devices may be light-emitting diode (LED) chips. The illumination device also includes a thermal dissipation structure. The thermal dissipation structure is coupled to the cap structure in a first direction. The thermal dissipation structure and the cap structure have a coupling interface. The coupling interface extends in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The thermal dissipation structure has a portion that intersects the coupling interface at an angle. The angle is in a range from about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees according to some embodiments.
US08668365B2	Optoelectronic device An optoelectronic device includes at least one luminescence diode chip which emits electromagnetic radiation during operation of the optoelectronic device, and at least one shield against stray radiation which laterally surrounds the luminescence diode chip only in places, wherein each shield is integral with a component of the optoelectronic device.
US08668364B2	Backlight unit and display device including the same A backlight unit capable of emitting heat smoothly and a display device including the same are disclosed. The backlight unit includes a bottom cover, a light emitting module arranged in a predetermined area of the bottom cover, a reflective sheet provided on the bottom cover, the reflective sheet spaced apart a predetermined distance from the bottom cover, a plurality of first heat radiating members provided between the reflective sheet and the bottom cover, the plurality of the first heat radiating members spaced apart a predetermined distance from each other, a second heat radiating member arranged between the light emitting module and the first heat radiating members, and a projected part located in the second heat radiating member below the reflective sheet, the projected part supporting the reflective sheet to locate the reflective sheet spaced apart a predetermined distance from the first heat radiating members.
US08668362B2	Ventilation for LED lighting Embodiments of the invention provide for a linear lighting system with a plurality of discrete light sources. Other embodiments of the invention include heat dissipation techniques and apparatus for a linear light system. Other embodiments of the invention include a two component lighting system that includes rails and nodes. In some embodiments, the lighting and control aspects can be divided between the rail and node. In yet other embodiments a linear lens providing a unique photometric distribution is provided.
US08668354B2	Low-glare LED-based lighting unit The present disclosure is directed to inventive methods and apparatus for a low-glare LED-based lighting unit (110). The low-glare LED-based lighting unit (110) may have vertically extending LED support structure (120) and an array of individually aimed LEDs (133) coupled to the vertically extending LED support structure (120). At least one vertically extending translucent inner lens (150/260) may be provided adjacent a plurality of the LEDs (133) and intersect the LED light output axis (A) of a plurality of the LEDs (133).
US08668348B2	Pool light assembly with cooling structure A pool light assembly includes a water inlet housing having a base with an exterior exposed to the pool water and an enclosed interior including an illuminating structure. A notch is provided in the exterior of the base and extends into the interior for allowing pool water to enter the water inlet housing and be in the proximity of the illuminating structure to act as a cooling element. A sealing structure is included for preventing water from entering electrically active elements, and a retaining member locks and encourages waterproof sealing of the electrically active elements.
US08668346B2	Simulated sunlight generating device A simulated sunlight generating device for generating a simulated sunlight required for evaluating performance of solar cells includes a plurality of driving units, a plurality of light-emitting units, and a plurality of adjusting units. The driving units drive the light-emitting units to emit light. The adjusting units enable the light of the light-emitting units to not only propagate along the same light route but also be added up and combined to form the simulated sunlight of an intended wavelength with ease of installation, ease of maintenance, low costs, high flexibility, and high efficiency.
US08668344B2	Marker sphere including edged opening to aid in molding Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post.
US08668343B2	Reflective marker with alignment feature Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post.
US08668342B2	Material thickness control over retro-reflective marker Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post.
US08668341B2	Prismatic retroreflective article bearing a graphic and method of making same A prismatic retroreflective article bearing a graphic and a method of making the same. The prismatic retroreflective article can include an optical layer including a front surface and a rear structured surface defined at least partially by internally reflecting cube-corner optical elements. The rear structured surface can be infused with a graphic, such that the prismatic retroreflective article retroreflects the graphic when viewed from the front surface of the optical layer. The method can include providing a graphic donor sheet, coupling the graphic donor sheet to the prismatic retroreflective article to form a composite, and applying heat and pressure to the composite to transfer at least a portion of the sublimation colorant from the graphic donor sheet to the rear structured surface of the optical layer.
US08668340B2	Reflective medical markers and methods of manufacture Identical plastic hemispheres are first treated with organic solvent, which is smeared by a pillow of microporous silicon rubber to achieve a slippery surface upon the hemispheres. The slippery surface upon the hemispheres may comprise a layer of melted plastic. Hemispheres are then placed under an application chamber, where hot gas under pressure softens, deforms and transports a sheet of marker foil over the hemisphere. Two hemispheres are then joined together by use of asymmetric voids and a clip pin inserted, while under compression, into the hemispheres.
US08668331B2	Method for designing non-round soft contact lenses A method for optimizing the performance in centration, rotation and stability of contact lenses makes use of the upper and lower eyelid geometries to maximize the lens-lid interaction for two different contact lens positions on the eye. The contact lenses are non-round lenses for maximum interaction with the eyelids.
US08668330B2	Eyewear with lens retention mechanism Eyewear is provided that can comprise a frame, a lens, and at least one lens retention mechanism that can secure the lens relative to the frame. The frame can support at least one lens in a field of view of a wearer. The frame can include a first ear stem and a second ear stem that allows the frame to be worn on the wearer's head. The retention mechanism can be supported by the frame and/or the lens and can be movable or fixed relative to the frame and/or the lens. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism comprises a latch device having an engagement structure that moves along a path of motion that intersects the lens. The retention component can engage an engagement portion of the lens to securing the lens relative to the frame.
US08668323B2	Printing device and printing method Disclosed herein is a printing device including: a plurality of heads configured to discharge inks cured by light irradiation and arranged in a transport direction of a medium; a plurality of pre-curing light sources provided in correspondence with the plurality of heads and configured to irradiate pre-curing light to dots formed on the medium by the heads; and a completely-curing light source configured to irradiate completely-curing light to the dots to which the light from the plurality of pre-curing light sources is irradiated, wherein a first printing mode in which a background ink is discharged from a head of an upstream side of the transport direction of the heads for discharging color inks and a second printing mode in which the background ink is discharged from a head of a downstream side of the transport direction of the heads for discharging the color inks are present.
US08668320B2	Treatment liquid for ink jet recording A treatment liquid for ink jet recording, containing a polyvalent metal ion and water. A dissolved carbon dioxide concentration in the treatment liquid is 4 mg/l or lower.
US08668317B2	Liquid container A second sealing film F2 is thermally bonded onto a leading end portion R1 of an ink lead-out member 32b of an ink pack and an annular projecting portion R2 provided on an ink casing 31. Thereby, a gap D produced between the ink lead-out member 32b and the ink casing 31 can be closed from outside the ink casing 31. Accordingly, the airtightness of a space S in the ink casing 31 is kept, thus making it possible to raise the pressure in the space S and generate such a force as to crush the ink pack.
US08668312B2	Liquid ejection with on-chip deflection and collection A printhead includes a substrate and monolithic liquid jetting structure including a nozzle, deflection mechanism, and catcher. The nozzle, through which a liquid jet is ejected in a direction substantially parallel to a first surface of the substrate, includes material layers formed on the first surface of the substrate. At least one of the material layers of the nozzle includes a drop forming mechanism actuated to form liquid drops from the liquid jet. The deflection mechanism is associated with the liquid jet and deflects portions of the liquid jet between first and second paths. Liquid drops formed from portions of the liquid jet following the first path and the second path continue to follow the first path and the second path, respectively. The catcher, including a material layer formed on the first surface of the substrate, collects liquid drops following one of the paths.
US08668311B2	Piezoelectric actuator having embedded electrodes A piezoelectric actuator includes a thin film sheet, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The thin film sheet is to physically deform in response to an electric field induced within the thin film sheet. The first electrode is embedded within the thin film sheet. The second electrode is embedded within the thin film sheet, and is interdigitated in relation to the first electrode. The electric field is induced within the thin film sheet via application of a voltage across the first and the second electrodes.
US08668310B2	Liquid-ejecting head, liquid-ejecting apparatus, piezoelectric element, and piezoelectric material A liquid-ejecting head includes a pressure-generating chamber communicating with a nozzle opening, and a piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element has piezoelectric layer contains a perovskite complex oxide containing Bi, La, Fe, and Mn and can undergo electric-field-induced phase transition.
US08668309B2	Fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid ejecting method An apparatus includes: a first nozzles for ejecting first fluid are lined up in a predetermined direction; a second nozzles for ejecting second fluid are lined up in a movement direction; and a control unit which sets a first method of when formation of a main image with the first fluid and formation of a background image with the second fluid are performed to overlap the main image and the background image with each other on the medium, in a case where one of the nozzle group of the part of the first nozzles and the nozzle group of the part of the second nozzles is positioned closer to the other direction side of the predetermined direction than the other nozzle group to perform the image formation on a predetermined area of the medium in advance of the other nozzle group.
US08668306B2	Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting head including: a head unit having a nozzle forming surface on which a plurality of rows of nozzles ejecting a liquid are arranged and of which the nozzle forming surface is wiped by a wiping member along an arrangement direction of the nozzle rows; and a fixing member, wherein the fixing member has a fixing plate section on which an exposure opening section exposing the nozzles of the nozzle forming surface is formed and of which an upper surface is joined to the nozzle forming surface as a fixing reference surface in a state where the nozzle is exposed into the exposure opening section, and a cutout section, which opens the exposure opening section in the wiping direction and exposes an edge portion of the nozzle forming surface, is formed downstream of the wiping member in the wiping direction in the exposure opening section.
US08668305B2	Print group for an inkjet printing apparatus In a print group for an inkjet printing apparatus a printing unit is provided comprising a housing with print bars having print heads. A transport unit is provided for a printing substrate. Drive and guidance units are arranged per print bar which move the print bars independently of one another in a perpendicular direction from a printing position into a transport position and back. In a park unit racks are provided for protective cap bars. A protective cap bar is provided per print bar which when coupled to said print bar seals it. Print bars in an operating position not provided for printing are in the transport position and are coupled with associated protective cap bars. Print bars in said operating position for printing are in the printing position and their associated protective cap bars are arranged in the park unit racks.
US08668302B2	System and method for printing full-color composite images in an inkjet printer An inkjet printer includes a plurality of color separation modules. Each color separation module includes an image receiving member and a printhead module configured to eject ink drops onto the image receiving member to form a color separation on the image receiving member. The printer is configured to transfix each color separation on each image receiving member to a single sheet to produce a composite ink image on the print medium after the print medium has passed by all of the color separation modules in the printer.
US08668300B2	Image recording apparatus A multifunction machine includes: a first feeding roller and a second feeding roller; an intermediate roller pair provided to a curved portion of a transport route; a main transporting roller pair; a recording head; a first drive motor and a second drive motor; and a control section. The control section intermittently drives the main transporting roller pair and makes the recording head jet ink during a period of time in which the main transporting roller pair is stopped, and performs pre-paper feeding processing for rotating the first feeding roller a predetermined amount in a paper feeding direction when a rear end of a paper is positioned between a first sensor and the first feeding roller.
US08668295B2	Liquid droplet jetting apparatus There is provided a liquid droplet jetting apparatus including: a transporting mechanism; and a head moving mechanism configured to move the second liquid droplet jetting head between a first position facing the one surface of the object and a second position facing the other surface of the object. Under a condition that the second liquid droplet jetting head is arranged at the first position, a first nozzle row and a second nozzle row are arranged such that each of first nozzles is overlapped with one of second nozzles with respect to a nozzle-row direction.
US08668293B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting apparatus that ejects liquid from an ejecting nozzle provided in an ejecting head includes a first container that contains a first liquid and a second container that contains a second liquid. The liquid ejecting apparatus includes a channel that selectively communicates with either the first or second container to supply the liquid contained therein to the ejecting head, a switching unit that performs a switching operation of switching between a first communicating state in which the channel communicates with the first container and a second communicating state in which the channel communicates with the second container. In addition, if the remaining amount of the second liquid contained in the second container is less than a predetermined value, prohibits the switching unit from performing the switching operation of switching from the second communicating state to the first communicating state.
US08668292B2	Refrigerator and refrigerator door There is provided a door of a refrigerator including: a door assembly which defines the appearance of the refrigerator door; an exterior member which is provided ahead of the door assembly to emit light; a connection member which connects the exterior member to the door assembly; a connection space which is formed between the door assembly and connection member; and a light-emitting means which is disposed at the connection space and emits light to the exterior member. There is an advantage in that it is possible to prevent dazzling of users, since the exterior member is not exposed to the outside and light is emitted via an end of the exterior member.
US08668288B2	Self-closing and opening device particularly for a movable furniture part The self-closing and opening device (1) particularly of a movable furniture part (103) comprises a fixed guide (8) having a supporting body (2) in which a first slider (3) can slide reversibly along a sliding axis (100) in opposition to and through the action of first elastic means (5), the first slider (3) being engageable with first driving means (106) present on a driving element (6) which slides reversibly in the direction of the sliding axis (100), the supporting body (2) comprising first movement means (4) for movement of the first slider (3) suitable to engage with guide means (12, 13) of the first slider (3), so as to release it from the driving means (106), also provided with a mechanical or elastically yielding stop (9, 120) against which the first slider (3) rests directly or indirectly before it engages with the guide means (12,13) in the first movement means (4) the driving element (6) being then pushed by an ejector (20) generating an initial opening movement of said movable furniture part (103).
US08668286B2	Rail system for drawers The invention relates to a rail system for drawers, comprising a body rail to be fastened to a furniture body and at least one drawer rail that can be moved relative to the body rail, and comprising at least one gear rack arranged on a rail of the rail system, wherein the gear rack can be pivoted or bent relative to the rail to which said gear rack is fastened about an imaginary axis (A) extending in the pull-out direction of the rail and thus is mounted such that the gear rack can be moved vertically to a limited extent.
US08668283B2	Electronic device enclosure assembly An electronic device enclosure assembly with a connecting assembly is disclosed. The electronic device enclosure assembly includes two electronic device enclosures. Each of the two electronic device enclosures includes a top frame, a bottom frame, a plurality of supports and a maintaining pole. The plurality of supports connects the top frame and the bottom frame, the maintaining pole is secured between two of the plurality of supports, and the maintaining pole defines a securing slot. A mounting member includes two side plates opposite to each other, and a positioning member protrudes from each of the two side plates. The maintaining poles of the two electronic device enclosures are located between the two side plates, the positioning member is engaged in the securing slot, and the two electronic device enclosures are connected together by the mounting member.
US08668277B2	Expandable shield An adjustable and expandable shield for a variety of uses and for the rim and the hub of a wheel, to protect them and keep them clean during the detailing process for the tires. Without this shield, the rims and hub which have already been cleaned during the general cleaning of the car become dirty when tire dressing is applied to the tires and would therefore need to be cleaned a second time to remove the tire dressing that sprayed onto the rim and hub. This device covers the rim and hub so that when tire dressing is applied, the rim and hub are shielded from the spray and will not get dirty.
US08668273B2	Highchair A highchair has a seat device, a bracket device and a table. The seat device has a base, a supporting sleeve and a seat. The bracket device is connected to the seat device and has two connecting segments, a connecting frame and a supporting arm. The connecting segments are respectively connected securely to the supporting sleeve and each has a connecting mount, a button seat, a pressing button and a button spring. The connecting frame connects to the connecting segments and has two inserting segments and a primary frame. The supporting arm is telescopically and pivotally connected to the connecting frame. The table is detachably mounted on the bracket device.
US08668267B2	Chair with tilting backrest A chair comprising a basic structure, a seat, a backrest, and at least one joint made of plastic material, which connects the backrest to the basic structure, wherein the joint has a first connection portion fixed to or integral with respect to the backrest, and a second connection portion connected to the basic structure, wherein said second connection portion comprises a first and a second arm, which are elongated in a longitudinal direction and are set at a distance from one another in a vertical direction, wherein the first arm has a front portion fixed to the basic structure and is deformable between a resting position corresponding to the resting position of the backrest and a deformed position corresponding to the position where the backrest is tilted backwards, wherein the second arm has a front portion, which is mobile in a longitudinal direction with respect to the basic structure between a first position corresponding to the resting position of the first arm, and a second position corresponding to the deformed position of the first arm, and wherein the second arm and the basic structure are provided with respective arrest elements which limit the extent of the travel in a longitudinal direction of the front portion of the second arm and define an end-of-travel of tilting backwards of the backrest.
US08668265B2	Chair A chair has a supporting frame, a seat portion, a back portion, and a recline mechanism. The mechanism moves the seat portion upon a reclining action of the back portion. The mechanism has a rear deformable member and a front deformable member operatively connecting the seat portion and the supporting frame. The recline mechanism also has a lower deformable member operatively connecting a lower part of the back portion and the supporting frame, and a puller member above the lower deformable member. The recline mechanism is configured such that as the back portion is reclined, the lower deformable member deforms and the puller member applies a rearward pulling action which causes the seat portion to move and the front and rear deformable members to deform.
US08668262B2	Angle adjuster for bicycle seat An angle adjuster for a bicycle seat that is disposed between a frame of a vehicle and a seat. The angle adjuster for a bicycle seat includes: a frame connector configured to be connected with the frame; a seat connector configured to support the seat, rotatably connected to the upper end of the frame connector, and having a nose at bottom facing the frame connector; an angle adjusting assembly disposed between the frame connector and the seat connector, and having a plurality of locking steps where the nose is configured to be selectively engaged to control rotational angle of the seat connector; an operating lever configured to be mounted on the frame to operate the angle adjusting assembly; and a wire connecting the angle adjusting assembly with the operating lever and reciprocating the angle adjusting assembly, when the operating lever is operated.
US08668259B2	Pivoting nose-less bicycle seat This invention relates to bicycle saddles. Several scientific studies have pointed to the risks of damage to the pudendal nerves and arteries associated with extended bicycle riding with conventional bicycle seats. It is the object of this invention to to provide a bicycle seat that can support the rider's weight while minimizing the pressure on the region near the pudendal canal. A further object of the invention is to allow the rider's legs to pedal without interference with the seat. A further object of the invention is to provide comfortable seating while bicycling. The invention consists of a relatively wide, flat seating surface—with no nose—that supports the sit bones of the rider and that pivots about a vertical axis to allow the seating surface to move out of the way of the rider's legs when pedaling on the down stroke.
US08668257B2	Foldable bracket of a chair A foldable bracket of a chair contains a positioning rod, a first rotating rod, a connector, a second rotating rod, and a supporting plate. The positioning rod is connected with the chair. The first rotating rod is rotatably coupled with the positioning rod. The connector is joined with the first rotating rod. The second rotating rod is rotatably coupled with the connector, and the supporting plate is connected to the second rotating rod.
US08668256B2	Roof panel and method of manufacturing said panel The application discloses a panel assembly for use in a open roof construction for a vehicle. The panel assembly comprises a panel main body, and at least one reinforcement member positioned in the vicinity of at least a part of the edges of said panel main body, and firmly connected thereto by means of a part molded in a molding process to said panel main body and said reinforcement member. A provision is made for locally at least reducing adherence of the moldable material to said reinforcement member and/or said panel main body during molding. There is also disclosed a method of manufacturing the panel assembly.
US08668253B2	Integrated door scuff plate and wire shield A scuff plate assembly for use with an automotive vehicle door side sill includes an elongate scuff plate trim and a U-shaped wire shield for housing a wire harness. The scuff plate trim and wire shield are integrally coupled by a deformable living hinge that is disposed on an upper portion of the wire shield.
US08668252B2	Vehicle body floor structure In this vehicle body floor structure, stiffeners that extend to a rear of a front cross member and that have a U-shaped concave portion that is open at to top thereof when viewed in a cross-section of a vehicle are joined to a bottom surface on both side portions of floor panel. Beads that have a U-shaped concave portion when viewed in a cross-section of the vehicle are provided at a rear portion of the floor panel, and the beads are aligned with the concave portion of the stiffeners and are provided continuously with the stiffeners.
US08668249B2	Frame for a cab of a mobile machine A frame for a cab of a mobile machine includes first and second primary tubes, formed by hydroforming, connected to first and second secondary tubes. The first primary tube includes first and second about vertically extending portions and an about horizontally extending portion. The about vertically extending portions are configured to be connected to the mobile machine, and the about horizontally extending portion is disposed between the about vertically extending portions. The second primary tube includes first and second about vertically extending portions and an about horizontally extending portion. The about vertically extending portions of the second primary tube are configured to be connected to the mobile machine, and the about horizontally extending portion of the second primary tube is disposed between the about vertically extending portions of the second primary tube.
US08668245B2	Front underfloor structure of vehicle A front underfloor structure of a vehicle (EV) includes a protruding member protruding downward from a front underfloor surface of the vehicle, and redirects a flow of traveling air that flows around a front underfloor while traveling. The protruding member is configured as a protruding member with curved surface (31) disposed at a position closer to the vehicle front than front tires (1L, 1R) and in a central portion of the front underfloor straddling a vehicle center line (CL). The protruding member with curved surface (31) has a circumference of protrusion in a vehicle longitudinal direction that is longest at the position of the vehicle center line (CL), and the circumference of protrusion in the vehicle longitudinal direction becomes gradually shorter with increasing distance from the vehicle center line (CL) on both sides in a vehicle width direction.
US08668241B2	Locking device for a sliding-roof arrangement of a motor vehicle A locking device is provided for a sliding-roof arrangement of a motor vehicle with two guide rails which can be arranged so as to be spaced apart in vehicle transverse direction, on which guide rails a slide connectable with a sliding roof is movably mounted. At least one of the slides comprises lock for steplessly locking the slide at random positions of the respective guide rail.
US08668240B2	Tailgate gap cover Disclosed is a vehicle gap cover, such as a tailgate gap cover, for covering a gap defined between two moving components of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the gap cover is a tailgate gap cover for covering the tailgate gap defined between a truck bed and a gate of a truck. The tailgate gap cover includes a cover having a first edge portion, a second edge portion and an exposed portion therebetween. The first edge portion is connected to one of the gate and the truck bed while the second edge portion is slideably received at the other of the gate and the truck bed so that the exposed portion covers the tailgate gap.
US08668239B2	Storage compartment device A storage compartment device for an interior panel part of a vehicle and having a housing with at least one access opening, through which a drawer is at least partially movable. The drawer has side walls and a base that is able to be moved between a retracted position and an extended position through the access opening of the housing. A guiding device is provided for moving the drawer between the retracted position and the extended position, which is constructed for guiding the drawer on moving between the retracted position and the extended position along a continuous curved path of movement.
US08668234B2	Bumper beam A bumper beam having increased bending strength achieved with a minimum increase in the weight of the bumper beam. The bumper beam (1) is mounted to the front of a vehicle, extends along a reference line (W), and is provided with a beam body (2) and a reinforcing plate (3). In at least one cross section perpendicular to the reference line (W), the reinforcing plate (3) extends linearly and the beam body (2) includes a pair of protrusions (2t, 2s) protruding, while surrounding an inner space, from the reinforcing plate (3) in a direction intersecting the reinforcing plate (3). If the Young's modulus and the density of the beam body (2) are Est and ρst, respectively, and the Young's modulus and the density of the reinforcing plate (3) are E2 and ρ2, respectively, the expression (Est/ρst3)<(E2/ρ23) is satisfied.
US08668229B2	Contamination resistant connecting system and method A contamination resistant connecting system includes, a first conduit, a first connector in operable communication with the first conduit, a first seal configured to seal at least part of the first connector from an environment, a second conduit operationally connectable with the first conduit, a second connector in operable communication with the second conduit that is operationally connectable with the first connector and a second seal configured to seal at least part of the second connector from an environment. Additionally, at least one piercing device is configured to pierce through the first seal and the second seal to allow operational connection of the first conduit with the second conduit.
US08668227B1	Debris barrier for off-road vehicle hitches A debris barrier for a vehicle receiver hitch with a hitch interface (such as a ball mount or clevis hitch) installed thereon includes a cross-member having a length sufficient to extend between the rear tires of an ATV/UTV. One or more fenders and/or mudguards are removably and replaceably securable to the cross-member in various configurations, with the fenders extending upwardly and the mudguards extending downwardly. The cross-member with fenders and/or mudguards is securable to a ball mount drawbar forward of the hitch ball or clevis, leaving the hitch interface functional so that, e.g., a trailer may also be secured to the vehicle. The fenders/mudguards block debris propelled backwards by the tires and guide the debris downward. The heights and left/right positions of the fenders and/or mudguards on the cross-member are adjustable, as is the forward/rearward position of the cross-member on the drawbar.
US08668225B2	Vehicle seat A vehicle seat includes: a seat back frame that is provided with a pair of side frame portions that are located on both left and right sides in the seat transverse direction; an outer-side load transmitting block that is located further to an outer side in the transverse direction of the seat back frame than the side frame portion of the seat back frame, and that transmits an impact load that is input from a side of the vehicle body to the seat back frame; a protruding portion that protrudes from a side surface of the side frame portion on the outer side in the transverse direction of the seat back frame towards the outer side in the transverse direction of the seat back frame; a side airbag apparatus that is located on a front surface of the protruding portion; and an engaging portion that is formed in the outer-side load transmitting block, and that receives the protruding portion. The protruding portion is formed in a box shape that has a supporting surface on a surface thereof that faces the side airbag apparatus.
US08668222B2	Foldable stroller A foldable stroller includes two front legs, two rear legs, a basket frame, two seat-supporting tubes, two pivoting members, two connecting rods, and a backrest-supporting tube. Rotation of the basket frame and the seat-supporting tubes relative to each other about a pivot point results in rotation of the pivoting members relative to the connecting rods about another pivot point to thereby rotate the backrest-supporting tube and the basket frame toward the rear legs in different directions.
US08668221B2	Automatic coupling device A device for coupling a vehicle to a trailer is provided. The device includes a base having a channel and a pair of side walls. The channel includes a mouth leading into a stop. The side walls are spaced apart from each other and the channel runs generally between the side walls. A catch is pivotally mounted between the side walls. The catch includes a mounting end, a catch end, and a contact surface. The catch end is pivotable between a first position, wherein the catch end abuts against the base; and a second position wherein the catch end is displaced from the base. The tow pin engages the contact surface of the catch and pivots the catch end towards the second position. The catch end returns to the first position so as to secure the tow pin between the catch end and the stop when the tow pin abuts against the stop.
US08668220B2	Wheelchair system A wheelchair system and an accessory system for a wheelchair are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the accessory system may include an accessory frame having one or more interface elements to mount to a wheelchair frame. The accessory system may include a wheel assembly rotatably coupled to the accessory frame by a first fastener. The accessory system may include an engagement system further coupling the accessory frame to the wheel assembly. The engagement system may include a channel guide member defining a channel having a notched region. The channel guide member may be rotatably coupled to one of the accessory frame or wheel assembly by a second fastener. The engagement system may further include a translating member retained within the channel of the channel guide member. The translating member may be fixed to another one of the accessory frame or wheel assembly.
US08668214B2	Mounting arrangement for a V-rod in a vehicle suspension A mounting arrangement for a V-rod in a vehicle suspension includes an axle housing having a mounting cavity formed thereon and a joint member installed in the mounting cavity so that a joint coupling extends outward from the axle housing. The joint member may include a ball joint mounted on a post mountable in the mounting cavity. The mounting cavity may be formed in a boss provided on the axle housing.
US08668213B2	Damper mounting structure A damper mounting structure is provided with a top buffer member and a bottom buffer member. The bottom buffer member has a protruding section that protrudes with an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the bottom buffer member. The damper mounting structure mates with the protruding section and is anchored to a vehicle body panel, and is provided with a collar formed at substantially the same height as the height of the protruding section. The corner of an opening formed on the vehicle body panel, which comes into contact with the top buffer member, is chamfered.
US08668212B2	Stabilizer bar of fiber reinforced plastic composite and method for its manufacture A stabilizer bar or stabilizer link in fiber composite construction is of a monolithic construction without fiber interruption. The cross section geometry, the wall thickness, and the fiber orientation vary in axial direction and radial direction such that the requirements defined by the available construction space and the expected loads are fulfilled. The fiber orientation is adjusted axially and radially load-appropriately. The middle section of the stabilizer bar that is primarily torsion-loaded is reinforced with fibers oriented between +/−35° and +/−55° relative to the longitudinal axis and the end members that are primarily bending-loaded are reinforced with fibers oriented between +/−20° and +/−40° relative to the longitudinal axis. In the transitional areas between the middle section and the end members there are transitions between these fiber orientations relatively to the longitudinal axis.
US08668209B1	Portable modular tool cabinet systems An apparatus for organizing and storing tools, related work materials, and convenience items such as a music system with speakers, a radio, a digital CD-player, and a MP3 adapter, as well as a compact refrigerator and a water cooler in a tool cabinet that is modular and easily transportable between work sites. The portable modular tool cabinet provides an electrical power system, shelving units and sliding drawers for holding tools and two lockable doors that hold additional hand tools and can be secured when the user is ready to transport the portable modular tool cabinet to another work site. The entire unit is transportable by using two base wheels and a pivotable-dolly-system with telescoping rod and wheel combinations that allow easy rolling to a transport vehicle such as a pickup truck for loading and transporting to another location.
US08668207B1	Product promotion storage rack and caddy system A product promotion storage rack is formed of a base plate having a front surface and a rear surface. The base plate has upper and lower edges. The base plate has parallel left and right edges. A plurality of laterally spaced long fingers extend forwardly from the front surface. Each long finger has a horizontal first short leg and an upwardly extending vertical first long leg. A plurality of laterally spaced inverted short fingers extend rearwardly from the rear surface. Each short finger has a horizontal second short leg and a downwardly extending vertical second long leg.
US08668206B2	Face seal gasket Various embodiments of the present invention provide improved face seal gaskets for use in connecting meters and other devices to pipelines. The improved face seal gaskets include a planar annular ring portion and one or more tabs extending substantially perpendicularly from the annular ring portion. In use, the annular ring portion is disposed adjacent a sealing surface on the inlet or outlet of the device to facilitate a fluid tight connection between the device and the pipeline. The tabs engage complementary grooves formed in the inlet or outlet portions of the device to facilitate alignment of the annular ring to the sealing surface thereon. The tabs may also retain the face seal gasket adjacent the sealing surface to facilitate improved installation of the device to the pipeline.
US08668203B2	Valve stem seal with gas relief features A valve stem seal can include an elastomeric component having a first portion for having a sealed engagement with a valve stem, and a pressure relief lip engaging a valve guide. The pressure relief lip can have a sealing configuration and a venting configuration. The venting configuration can allow excess exhaust gases to vent from a combustion chamber. After the venting of excess exhaust gases, the pressure relief lip can close to the sealing configuration to prevent oil from entering the combustion chamber. The elastomeric body or the valve guide can include a pressure relief channel. The elastomeric body can also include a bumper engaging the valve guide. The pressure relief channel can be disposed in the bumper.
US08668195B2	Media diverter apparatus A multi-position letterbox media diverter that maximizes productivity includes a gate configured like a tomahawk to allow sufficient space for the diverter to operate immediately after the trail edge of a sheet passes the front edge of the gate and thereby increase gate actuation time. Reversible drives of an inverter are used to direct the sheet to a duplex path while another sheet is simultaneously directed by a lower integrated baffle portion of the gate to an output tray as needed. Thus, reducing the time required for the sheet to be in the inverter path before reversing sheet direction, thereby facilitating a reduction in required transport speed.
US08668192B2	Insertion system, image forming system, and insertion method An insertion system includes a folding device to perform either single-sheet folding to fold a single sheet at a time or batch folding to fold multiple sheets together at a time, an insertion device to insert into an envelope the sheet folded by the folding device, and a batch setting unit to designate either the single-sheet folding or the batch folding from a folding and insertion menu for multiple sheets at a time when the multiple sheets are processed by the folding device and the insertion device.
US08668190B1	Impact absorbing telescoping post for multi-panel trampolines An impact-absorbing structure includes a vertical hollow column that telescopically receives a post. A coil spring surmounts a centrally apertured support plate that receives and is secured to the hollow column. A coil spring stands atop the support plate and the upper end of the coil spring is secured to a top plate that surmounts the post. A centrally apertured spacer plate is parallel to the top plate and is downwardly spaced apart from it. A plurality of bolts interconnects the top plate and spacer plate. The post retracts within the hollow column and the coil spring is compressed when a downwardly directed force is applied to the top plate. The coil spring unloads and restores the top plate and the spacer plate to their respective positions of repose when the downwardly directed force is removed. Each bolt is engaged by an eye loop at the end of a cable.
US08668186B1	Dumpster screen and method of use thereof A dumpster screen comprising a fenced enclosure around one (1) or more trash dumpsters commonly found by commercial establishments. The fence material is made of an outdoor weather-proof textile material supported on its vertical sides using fence posts and along its horizontal edges using cables. A front portion of the enclosure, typically accessed by trucks to empty the dumpsters, comprises a gate portion. This enables the incoming truck to lower its forks across the reinforced top of said gate and continue lowering it until it can remove the dumpster in the normal manner. After emptying, the dumpster is replaced in the same manner and the front barrier automatically returns to position.
US08668183B2	Dual-direction in-tank magnetic safety valve A magnetic safety valve for installation through a tank wall incorporates a piston movable within a valve body. The valve is held normally-closed by two opposite-pole magnets, one in the inner end of the piston, and one in the valve body. A vacuum produced by a pump connected to the valve will act upon the outer end of the piston, producing a force tending to move the piston outward. When the vacuum-induced outward force on the piston exceeds the attractive force between the two magnets, it pulls the piston outward and away from the valve body magnet, unseating the inner end of the piston from the valve body, and allowing outward fluid flow through the valve. A second valve seat may be provided for engagement with an outer portion of the piston to prevent uncontrolled fluid flow out of the tank in the event of valve damage.
US08668181B2	Device for attaching a piece of furniture to the floor of an aircraft Devices associated with an interface that is advantageous for the customized attachment of pieces of furniture to the floor of an aircraft. The interface includes rails extending longitudinally in the aircraft cabin, able to receive anchoring devices for connecting the furniture elements to these rails. The anchoring devices include axial and radial claw clamping devices which are associated together in pairs and operated together in pairs by a single and same lever (58, 95).
US08668179B2	Mount for an electronic device A mounting device that securely supports an electronic device to a surface such as a vehicle dashboard. The mounting device comprises a flexible base for placement on a mounting surface and a bendable frame attached to or otherwise coupled with the base to permit the base to be shaped to at least partially conform to contours on the mounting surface. The base may be partially formed of a material that provides sufficient friction between its lower surface and the mounting surface to resist unwanted movement. The frame may be formed of aluminum and may include a central portion and a plurality of appendages each independently movable about at least two axes of movement. Each of the appendages may include a connecting link joined to the central portion and a pair of arms extending from the connecting link and movable relative to one another and relative to the central portion.
US08668173B2	Apparatus for retaining fluid hoses to a farm implement frame A bracket arrangement for securing fertilizer hoses, such as those for carrying anhydrous ammonia, to the frame of a fertilizer applicator or similar implement is made of a corrosion resistant material and is thus resistant to damage caused by thermal changes, sunlight, and inclement weather. The bracket arrangement is designed to be removably attached to the implement frame to allow flexibility in where along the frame the hoses, or bundles of hoses, are retained. The bracket arrangement includes a bracket having an elongated and generally planar body with an eyelet formed in the planar body. The eyelet is configured to pass a length of hose and restrict movement of the hose in a direction orthogonal to its length.
US08668172B2	Holding device for a sprinkler nozzle A holding device (1) for a sprinkler nozzle (17) of a sprinkler system is provided, wherein the holding device has a first bracket (2) and a second bracket (3) that are connected to each other at one of their ends and that extend parallel to each other at least in an assembled state of the holding device (1). Each bracket has a structure (10, 11) for receiving a sprinkler nozzle (17), and the receiving structures (10, 11) are formed for receiving the sprinkler nozzle (17) oriented perpendicular to the two brackets (2, 3). The two brackets (2, 3) have, at their free ends opposite the one end, complementary catch structures (5, 6) by which the two brackets (2, 3) can be locked with each other in the assembled state.
US08668171B2	Utensil rest A utensil rest includes a main body having a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall are connected and define an edge of the main body. At least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall have at least one utensil receiving portion formed therein. The at least one utensil receiving portion is configured to receive a utensil.
US08668170B2	Railway signaling system with redundant controllers Disclosed is a railway signaling system for controlling a load. In accordance with the teachings of this invention, the system comprises a first autonomous controller and a second autonomous controller which is redundant with the first controller, each controller connectable to the load such that there is no single point of failure. The first and second controllers operable in either an on-line mode wherein both power outputs provide power to the load or an off-line mode wherein a single power output does not provide power to the load. On-line controllers monitor current therethrough. When both controllers are on-line, the current between the two controller is imbalanced up to a threshold limit, if the threshold limit is exceeded by one controller, that controller will go off line, and if the first controller is off-line and the second controller is on-line, the second controller monitors output voltages of the off-line controller to ascertain that the output voltages are zero.
US08668169B2	Communications based crossing control for locomotive-centric systems A train equipped with an onboard system for determining its position and a track database for determining the positions of upcoming grade crossings sends activate after expiration messages to control wayside warning systems at the crossings to achieve a constant warning time while maintaining a safety margin that ensures the train can be stopped if the wayside systems do not respond correctly to the activate after expiration messages. The system may be used in place of existing track-based crossing warning system control circuits. Communications between the train may be radio-based, and may be direct between the train and wayside devices or may be routed through a central station, which may act as a relay or maintain a database. The train may control multiple crossings at one time, thereby eliminating the need for downstream adjacent crossing control.
US08668166B2	Shape memory riblets A multilayer construction for an array of aerodynamic riblets incorporates a first layer composed of a material with protuberances, the first layer material having shape memory and a second layer composed of a material exhibiting a second characteristic with capability for adherence to a surface.
US08668162B1	Apparatus and method for roll moment equalization at high advance ratios for rotary wing aircraft A method for equalizing rolling moments at high advance ratios is disclosed including impelling an aircraft in a forward direction at an airspeed by means of a thrust source and rotating a rotor of the aircraft at an angular velocity with respect to the airspeed effective to cause a positive total lift on each blade due to air flow over the blades in the retreating direction when the blade is moving in the retreating direction. The rotor includes an even number of blades placed at equal angular intervals around the rotor hub. One or both of cyclic pitch and rotor angle of attack are adjusted such that a rolling moment of the retreating blade due to reverse air flow is between 0.3 and 0.7 times a rolling moment on the advancing blade due to lift.
US08668161B2	Systems and methods for long endurance stratospheric operations An illustrative airship system for long endurance stratospheric operations includes an upper airship and a first end of a tether attached to the upper airship. A lower airship is attached to a second end of the tether and a payload airship is reversibly mated to the lower airship. The airship system is free flying and configured to maintain long duration station keeping. Illustrative methods for long endurance stratospheric operations are also provided.
US08668160B2	Cable organizer and electronic appliance with same A cable organizer in accordance with the present invention has a top seat, a separating plate and a base plate. The top seat has two plug slots, a winder and a longitudinal slot. The separating plate is mounted to a bottom of the winder and has a slit corresponding to and communicating with the longitudinal slot. The base plate is detachably mounted to a lower portion of the separating plate and has a spindle having a top mounted in the slit of the separating plate. The present invention also relates to an electronic appliance with the cable organizer. The electronic appliance has two sliding slots to which the base are slidably mounted, wherein the base plate has a mounting slot and the electronic appliance has a positioning bead selectively protruding from the side of the electronic appliance and detachably inserted in the mounting slot of the base plate.
US08668159B2	Folded perforated web A web, such as a tissue or nonwoven web. Perforation lines in the web define sheets. The web is folded before being rolled or stacked, such that the intersection of the perforation lines and the folding line provides reliable dispensing. The web in roll or stack form, a method for forming the web, and a dispenser adapted for dispensing the web are also described.
US08668157B2	Method of recovering film-forming material A layer (71), made from a material that is attracted by a magnet, is formed in at least part of a chamber component (70), which at least part makes in contact with a film forming material. A method for collecting a film forming material includes the steps of: (a) exfoliating an attachment (22) which has attached to a surface of the chamber component (70); and (b) collecting the attachment (22) by separating a fragment of the layer (71), which fragment has been exfoliated in the step (a), while causing the fragment to be attracted by a magnet (202a).
US08668154B2	Lawn mower and fertilizer spreader combination A riding lawn mower mounted drop spreader apparatus is used for spreading a granular material while mowing. The spreader includes a hopper for holding a quantity of a granular material to be dispensed with a control gate which controls the amount of material distributed while mowing. An auger located in the hopper has a drive motor which can also be controlled by an operator of the mower. The hopper has a mounting frame for mounting the hopper and agitator mechanism on a rear chassis region of the lawn mower. An operator can visually observe the amount of material distributed by observing the mowed path behind the mower during use.
US08668153B2	Spray nozzle for low clearance spraying A spray nozzle includes an orifice disposed on a substantially planar discharge surface. An impingement surface is disposed opposite the orifice, the impingement surface forming an angle with a centerline of the orifice. A deflection ridge bridges a gap between the impingement surface and the discharge surface. Adjacent the deflection ridge is a further trough which extends into the impingement surface. The nozzle includes a fluid fitting adapted for providing a pressurized fluid to the orifice.
US08668149B2	Bar code reader terminal and methods for operating the same having misread detection apparatus Misreads in decodable indicia by terminals such as bar code scanners (e.g., laser, image sensors) can occur. Solutions can include increasing redundancy or screening out erroneous data. Embodiments of screening error reduction circuits, terminals, and/or methods for processing decodable indicia data are provided.
US08668148B2	RFID chip tray The invention generally pertains to a chip tray for storing casino currency. By way of example, one chip tray is a dual chip tray having a lower housing assembly having an interior configured for receiving at least one removable chip tray for holding gaming currency. A top tray sub assembly is hinged relative to the lower housing assembly to pivot between a closed position and an open position. A chip tray lid is provided to cover the lower housing assembly in a covered position. In another example, RFID antennas are positioned within the lower housing assembly and the top tray sub assembly. The RFID antennas are configured to read and communicate with RFID-enabled gaming currency in the lower housing assembly and the top tray sub assembly.
US08668144B2	Method and process for symbolic mark decoding Apparatuses, systems and methods that operate to customize content or other information indicated by symbolic marks (such as, for example, QR codes and other types of barcodes).
US08668143B2	Payment cards and devices with gift card, global integration, and magnetic stripe reader communication functionality A payment card (e.g., credit and/or debit card) or other device (e.g., mobile telephone) is provided with a magnetic emulator operable to communicate data to a magnetic stripe read-head. Gift cards may be inputted by a user into such a payment card or other device such that a user can combine gift cards. Similarly, a user be provided with a global payment account that can be utilized in multiple countries that have different standards for formatting data. A user may be provided with a default country (e.g., United States) but may have a way to select that the user is in a different country (e.g., Japan). Accordingly, a user may select that a Japanese data structure be transmitted through a magnetic stripe reader when the user is in Japan.
US08668141B2	Digital receipt reading device, software and method of digital receipt reading A customer's mobile device comprises a camera and a processor. The camera is used to scan a two-dimensional barcode which has encoded within it transaction details and ancillary information relating to purchases made by a customer in their receipted transaction.
US08668139B2	Method of protecting an individual's privacy when providing service based on electronic tag A technology for providing a service based on an electronic tag. A personalized service provider issues a new code that replaces a code recorded on an electronic tag which is attached to a product purchased by a purchaser, sets a privacy policy of the purchaser, authenticates the new code and purchaser information, and provides a service associated with the product in a limited manner according to the set privacy policy when a person who accesses the personalized service provider is not the purchaser of the product.
US08668131B2	In-situ accuracy control in flux dipping A flux dipping apparatus includes a flux plate having a top surface; and a dipping cavity in the flux plate and recessed from the top surface. A flux leveler is disposed over the flux plate and configured to move parallel to the top surface. A piezoelectric actuator is configured to adjust a distance between the flux leveler and the top surface in response to a controlling voltage applied to electrodes of the first piezoelectric actuator.
US08668130B2	Surgical stapling systems and staple cartridges for deploying surgical staples with tissue compression features A surgical staple having at least one projection formed thereon. In various embodiments, the projection is formed on a crown of the surgical staple. In one various embodiment, the projection surrounds, or is positioned adjacent to, at least one deformable member of the surgical staple. In one embodiment, the projection can apply an increased compressive force or pressure to soft tissue surrounding the deformable member prior to the deformable members puncturing a hole in the soft tissue. As a result of the increased compressive force or pressure on the tissue, after staple deployment, blood flow proximate deformable member puncture holes can be reduced.
US08668123B2	Holding apparatus for a portable electronic device An apparatus is disclosed to hold a communication device, such as a cellular phone, personal digital assistant, smart phone, or the like, in a manner that provides for hands-free use of the communication device, particularly while driving, visual proximity so that a display of the communication device is easily observed, and audio proximity so that a speaker and a microphone are easily within hearing and speaking distances. The holding apparatus includes one or more clips with which to clip the device onto a visor. The clips provide a degree of rotation about a pivot pin. The body is configurable such that it can hold devices of varying sizes. The body can extend both vertically and horizontally to accommodate longer and wider devices. In at least one embodiment, the body is sectioned into four quarters that can extend and retract to accommodate many varied sizes of devices.
US08668122B2	Tablet accessory system A tablet computer accessory system for holding a tablet computer includes a base; a plurality of holding straps extending from the base, the plurality of straps each forming a loop, each loop oriented on a corner of the tablet computer; a lanyard interconnected with the base; a handle interconnected with the base; a hanging strap interconnected with a carabineer, the hanging strap attached to the base; and a leg strap interconnected with the base.
US08668121B2	Filling device Filling device (1, 101) including a reservoir (3, 103) intended to contain liquid, a valve (4, 104) connected to the reservoir and a spout (20, 120), in which the valve has a shutter (10, 110) and a shutter seat (11), a flow circuit having a liquid inlet adjacent to the shutter seat and a liquid outlet adjacent to the spout, the liquid outlet being located lower than the liquid inlet, and an air intake circuit separate from the flow circuit, in which a pushrod (22, 122) has an upper end adjacent to the shutter. The pushrod includes a first duct (27) and a second duct (28), the air inlet circuit including the first duct, the flow circuit including the second duct.
US08668117B2	Fluid dispensing apparatus and method A fluid dispenser contains and dispenses metered amounts of fluid, and in some embodiments comprises a reservoir for containing fluid; a chamber positioned substantially within the reservoir for containing a quantity of fluid; and a piston moveable within the chamber in a first direction to draw fluid into the chamber from the reservoir, and movable in a second direction to discharge a metered amount of fluid from the chamber. A user-manipulatable control can be coupled to the piston to move the piston with respect to the chamber, and in some cases to select the desired metered amount of fluid to be dispensed. Also, a pawl can be used to selectively permit and inhibit movement of the piston in the first and/or second directions to prevent partial doses from being dispensed from the fluid dispenser.
US08668114B2	Dispensing system and package for use therewith An improved dispensing system for dispensing products provided initially in a package that includes an activatable opening structure is disclosed. The dispensing system comprises a frame being configured to support the package of products and an opening tool associated with the frame. The opening tool engages with the activatable opening structure on the package to create an opening when the package is moved longitudinally along the frame of the dispensing system, thus allowing the products to be at least partially dispensed out of the package into the product display area of the frame through the opening formed on the rear panel or on an angular of the rear and side panels of the package.
US08668112B2	Hole-sealing cover Hole-sealing cover wherewith, while securing space for a moving part such as the end of a suspension arm, the size of a hole in a member being attached to can be made small. The hole-sealing cover is shaped so that it can be inserted into a hole in a bracket, includes a vessel-shaped main cover body which has a space for an end to move in formed inside, and a flange, formed at the peripheral edges of the main cover body, for preventing excessive insertion, in which main cover body, at the top part thereof forming a vessel-shaped bottom surface, a hinge is formed which extends, crossing the top part linearly, which hinge exhibits elasticity wherewith the width in a direction crossing the hinge can be reduced by a pressing force and wherewith the width is restored to the original width when the pressing force is released.
US08668103B2	Package with a sleeve having a self-initializing locking tab A self-locking package comprising a sleeve having a self-initializing locking tab and a slidable insert. The sleeve comprises a plurality of panels forming a substantially quadrilateral cross section. The locking tab extends between a top panel and a bottom panel and is offset from corners of the quadrilateral. An insert for retaining an item is at least partially insertable within an opening of the sleeve and includes a notch formed in at least one portion of the perimeter of the insert, such that when the insert is properly inserted into the sleeve, the locking tab seats within the notch to substantially prevent relative movement between the insert and the sleeve.
US08668094B2	Carbon membrane structure and method for producing same A carbon membrane structure includes: a cylindrical porous support body provided with a plurality of cells extending from one end face to the other end face and functioning as fluid passages, and a carbon membrane disposed on the surface side of the cells formed in the porous support body. The plurality of cells are formed so that a distance from one cell to another cell adjacent to the one cell in a cross section perpendicular to a cell extension direction of the porous support body 1 is 0.60 mm or more. The carbon membrane structure shows very excellent separation performance by the carbon membrane.
US08668093B2	Atmospheric pressure microwave plasma treated porous membranes Versions of the invention include compositions and methods for making them that include a polymeric porous membrane with one or more atmospheric pressure microwave plasma modified surfaces. The modified porous membrane is stable, non-dewetting, and retains its mechanical strength.
US08668092B2	System and method for uniformly distributing a fluid through a filter bed in a filter A system and method for uniformly distributing fluids (e.g., washing and in-service) through a filter bed of a filter. The system and method of the present invention can be used with any type of filter that uses media to remove impurities from a fluid. The filter bed can include one or more layers of media. The media can be natural (e.g., sand, gravel, anthracite, etc.) or can be fabricated (e.g., plastic). The filter media can be supported by one or more layers of gravel. Alternatively, the filter media can be supported by a porous plate or other support designed to replace the gravel layers. The present invention includes a system having one or more distribution members configured to uniformly distribute a fluid through a filter bed of a filter. Preferably, the one or more distribution members can be readily installed by relatively unskilled labor in both existing filters and new filters. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more distribution members are configured to extend into at least a portion of an underdrain from above the underdrain. In retrofit applications, the preferred design of the one or more distribution members is such that no significant alteration of the distribution chamber, underdrain or fluid velocity is necessary.
US08668089B2	System crate, in particular for transporting fresh fish The present invention relates to a crate (2) of a system of crates, in particular for transporting fresh fish, which has an opening (16) on the top side, and wherein the edge area as well as the base area of the opening on the top side are designed in such a manner that the base area on the edge of the opening on the top side is laterally and positively placed on an identical crate; thus the crates can be stacked on top of each other such that the upper crate can be inserted into the lower crate, rotated about a vertical axis by 180°, and thus the empty boxes can be stacked into one another (180° stack-nest crate), and said crate is thereby characterized in that the edge area (10) of the opening on the top side is designed, at least in terms of area, in a channel shape and has at least one first through hole (30) which is located on the outer side at the bottom of the crate wall adjacent to the edge area, and in that the base of the crate features a second through hole (30) so that liquid can drain out of the crate through the second through hole into the channel-shaped area of a similar crate stacked below, and then through the first through hole of the crate stacked below, out of the channel-shaped area alongside the outer side crate wall adjacent to the edge area of the lower side.
US08668086B2	Cover for welding wire container A cover for a welding wire container has a body portion provided with an elongate slot through which the welding wire can be withdrawn from the container, and at least one flap formed integrally therewith and partially defining the slot.
US08668083B1	Dugout locker A flexible storage device is particularly well suited for use in dugouts, for holding equipment used in sports, such as baseball and softball is disclosed. An example of the device includes central pocket between front and back surfaces to use for storage, or for use in decorating. The device is flexible to allow it to be rolled up for quick and simple transport, and includes an elastic device for retaining bats. Additionally an arrangement that allows weight balance of items being held, bats on the sides, helmet, mitt and sunglasses pocket in center, which obviates the need for rigid structure is also disclosed.
US08668082B2	Flexible packaging Various arrangements for a flexible package for articles of footwear or other items are presented. The flexible package generally includes a lightweight flexible package sized to accommodate a pair of shoes. The flexible package may also include a removable stiffening insert to aid in maintaining the structure of the flexible package and allow stacking of the package. Further, the flexible package may include one or more handle arrangements. Various closure arrangements may be used with the flexible packaging for footwear, such as an undercut tab arrangement, hook and loop type closure arrangement, rim and lip, and the like.
US08668080B1	Method and device for storing and transporting jewelry A method and device for storing and transporting jewelry which generally includes a flexible, tubular, and transparent sleeve having a first angled end and a second angled end opposite thereof. The first end and the second end each have angled openings leading to an internal cavity. A jewelry item is inserted within the sleeve so that the first end and second end of the jewelry protrude from the first and second end of the sleeve. The first and second end of the sleeve are then extended over the first and second ends of the jewelry and connected to each other, such as by tying, or through the use of various types of fasteners so that the jewelry is completely enclosed within the sleeve in a conventional clasped circular-shaped orientation that will prevent tangling of the jewelry and allow the jewelry to be stored, hung on display, worn, or easily transported.
US08668078B2	Clean, high density, soft-accumulating conveyor A conveyor segment for clean manufacturing applications. Each conveyor belt segment includes a pair of side rails parallel to each other; a pair of belt-drives for transporting work pieces from a first end to a second end of the belt segment; a pair of driving wheels for turning the belt-drives. The belt of each of the belt-drives is disposed in a serpentine path about plural, load-bearing upper idler wheels, around either a lower loop-back idler wheel or a driving wheel, and back up and around another pair of upper idler wheels. This sequence is repeated a selected number of times about additional pairs of upper idler wheels and lower loop-back idler wheels or a driving wheel before the belt is disposed beneath plural return idler wheels and back up to the starting point. Slipping between the belt and wheels is thus minimized, even in the absence of a work piece on the belt segment.
US08668071B2	Turning wheel A turning wheel comprising a number of blades. Each blade has a front side provided with a front projection, and a back side provided with a back projection. Each two consecutive blades form a gap between the backside of a first blade and a front side of a second blade. The gap comprises an inner gap formed radially inward from the back projection and the front projection. During rotation of the turning wheel a container can be held in the gap and an end portion of the container can be held in the inner gap, thereby protecting the end portion from being damaged.
US08668065B2	Torque limiting coupling A torque limiting coupling rotatably arranged around a longitudinal axis A has a coupling hub (2, 102, 202), drivers (6, 106), a coupling sleeve (3, 103, 203) and a switching disk (4, 104, 204). The switching disk (4, 104, 204) is rotatably arranged between a switched-on position and an idling position relative to the coupling hub (2, 102, 202). The drivers (6, 106) engage the coupling sleeve first recesses (7, 107,207) in the switched-on position. The drivers (6, 106) engage the switching disk second recesses (8, 108, 208) in the idling position. A first spring mechanism (25, 125, 225) urges the switching disk (4, 104, 204) in the direction towards the switched-on position. A second spring mechanism (12, 112, 212) acts axially on the switching disk (4, 104, 204) and urges the drivers (6, 106) against the coupling sleeve (3, 103, 203).
US08668062B2	Damper for furniture The invention relates to a damper (1, 1′) for furniture, especially hinges, comprising a housing (2, 2′) in which a piston (8, 8′) is connected to a piston rod (3, 3′) and can be displaced. A fluid flows through at least one flow channel (11, 11′) on or in the piston (8, 8′) during a movement of the piston (8, 8′) inside the housing (2, 2′), the movement of the piston (8, 8′) resulting in a different damping power in different directions. The cross-section of the flow channel can be modified in some sections on at least one groove (20, 20′) by moving a plate (12, 12′) relative to the piston (8, 8′). On the at least one groove (20, 20′), a substantially funnel-shaped outlet (22, 22′) and/or the groove (20′) have a section which is arranged at an angle to the radial direction to avoid cavitation.
US08668049B2	Ladder A ladder comprises two stiles and at least a step unit mounted between the two stiles. The step unit includes a hollow step, an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve. The inner sleeve is fit into the hollow step, at an end of which a position restriction portion is located to prevent the inner sleeve from moving out, and the outer sleeve is adapted to surround the end of the hollow step. Besides, a fastener is set, the fastening end of which is passed through the stile, the outer sleeve and fastened in the inner sleeve. The present technique solution has a high supporting strength and a high shear resistance.
US08668047B2	Toeboard system having telescoping, articulating and interlocking members A toeboard system for scaffolding has telescoping, articulating, and interlocking members. The telescoping member has inner and outer sleeves configured in telescope arrangement for linear extension of the inner sleeve. Connecting brackets are positioned between the telescoping member and the articulating member to facilitate rotational positioning of the articulating member. In addition, the telescoping member and the articulating member, respectively, include a mounting structure and a receiving structure, which are configured to interlock one toeboard system to another toeboard system. Alternative toeboard systems with the mounting structure and the receiving structure but without telescoping members or articulating members are also disclosed.
US08668045B2	Sound and vibration transmission pad and system The present invention is a chair or similar body-supporting apparatus for sitting on, reclining on or lying upon. The chair or similar apparatus is capable of transmitting sound and vibrations generated by a sound source and/or a vibration source to a user's body. The sound and vibrations are transmitted through speakers, transducers, or a combination thereof which are connected to the chair or similar apparatus. The present invention is also a method of providing vibrational energy to a user, including regulating sound and vibrations transmitted through speakers, transducers, or a combination thereof which are connected to a chair or similar body-supporting apparatus.
US08668044B2	Transporter vehicle There is provided a circulation line (39) for circulating pressurized oil from an accumulator (11) into a housing (15) of a steering valve (14). An orifice joint (41) is provided along the path of the circulation line (39). The orifice joint (41) is removably mounted on the housing (15) of the steering valve (14) from outside. An orifice portion (42) of the orifice joint (41) applies a throttling function to the circulating oil liquid whereby a frictional heat is generated therein. The oil liquid in a warm state flows through a communication passage (21), passages in a spool valve (16), and a low pressure side passage (18B), thus enabling the steering valve (14) to be always in a warm state.
US08668041B2	Construction machine having platform for maintenance work A construction machine including: a lower propelling body; an upper slewing body having a rear region with an engine room; a slewing device for slewing the upper slewing body; and a platform cover. The slewing device includes a slewing electric motor having an electric-motor output shaft, and a speed reducer having a speed-reducer output shaft rotated more slowly than the electric-motor output shaft, the speed reducer installed forward of the engine room such that the speed-reducer output shaft points downward, the slewing electric motor disposed just above the speed reducer. The platform cover is provided on a top of the slewing electric motor, having an upper surface serving as a platform for maintenance of equipment in the engine room. The platform cover is lower than the engine cover and adjacent to a front side of the engine room.
US08668040B2	Supercharger-equipped internal combustion engine for saddle-ride type vehicle An internal combustion engine for a vehicle can include a crankcase, and a supercharger disposed behind the crankcase in a front-to-rear direction of the vehicle body. A throttle body and an intercooler are connected in the front-to-rear direction, to an intake passage of the engine. The intake passage extends a rearward from a cylinder head, and the cylinder head protrudes substantially upward from the crankcase. The throttle body and the intercooler are connected in this order, in the front-to-rear direction.
US08668038B2	Hydraulic cab tilt actuator with lost motion A lost motion piston assembly comprising a lost motion cavity formed within a piston and a lost motion piston disposed within the lost motion cavity. The lost motion piston forms a sealed gas cavity. The sealed gas cavity contracts when the actuator is extended under pressure into the cylinder space and expands under pressure when the actuator is retracted by relieving pressure in the cylinder space.
US08668037B2	Saddle-ride-type electrically operated vehicle In an electrically-operated vehicle including rear wheels on right and left sides of a rear portion of a vehicle body, the electrically-operated vehicle includes a motor that drives the rear wheels, a battery 51 that is arranged above the motor, and a lower battery that is placed between the right and left rear wheels. The lower battery and the motor are arranged in a distributed manner over an axle of the rear wheels between a vehicle front side of the axle of the rear wheels and a vehicle rear side of the axle of the rear wheels. An upper end portion of a rear cushion is supported on a vehicle body frame, and the battery and the motor are supported on a lower end of the rear cushion.
US08668035B2	Electric traction system and method A power exchange unit (PXU) is coupled to an existing manual transmission of a vehicle via a PTO port. An electric motor generator coupled to the PXU. A battery is electrically coupled to the motor generator for supplying power to propel the vehicle. A control unit is coupled to the motor generator and the battery and configured to switch operation of the vehicle between first and second modes, wherein in the first mode an internal combustion engine of the vehicle propels the vehicle, and in the second mode the motor generator propels the vehicle in a motoring mode.
US08668034B2	Self-reconfigurable mobile manipulator A manipulator including a mobile plate for carrying an end-effector, connected to a plurality of legs, each of which has a distal end connected to the mobile plate and a proximal end connected to a supporting object by a clamping device, a plurality of distal links, a plurality of intermediate links and a plurality of proximal links, an actuator connected between each pair of longitudinally adjacent intermediate links, the distal links, connecting the intermediate links with the mobile plate by a system of distal revolute joints including a distal lockable joint, and the proximal links, connecting the intermediate links with a system of proximal joints having lockable proximal joints, where the manipulator is able to achieve manipulation, self-reconfiguration and locomotion movements without needing actuators directly acting on each joint.
US08668030B2	Establishing positions of locating field detectors and path mapping in underground boring tool applications Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region. Provisions are also described for extending drilling range by using additional detectors by moving a limited number of detectors. In another aspect, a system is provided including at least two above ground detectors for sensing the locating signal. The detectors are located at initial positions in the region. Electromagnetic data is generated by the detectors with the boring tool at multiple positions to generate electromagnetic data which is used to identify the positions of the detectors. A selected flux pathline steering technique is introduced.
US08668029B2	Sonic latch mechanism A head assembly includes a body, a spearhead operatively associated with the body and configured to translate axially relative to the body, and at least one latch operatively associated with the spearhead and the body. The latch is configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position relative to the body in response to axial translation of the spearhead relative to the body. In an extended position, the latch covers more than 25% of the circumference of the body adjacent the latches.
US08668025B2	Hand-guided work apparatus A hand-guided work apparatus includes a combustion engine to drive a work tool. The combustion engine includes a crankcase (14) in which a crankshaft (16) is rotatably mounted about a rotational axis (44). A pressure sensor (27) and a temperature sensor (26) are arranged on the crankcase (14). The pressure sensor (27) and the temperature sensor (26) are arranged in a common sensor housing (31). In the typical put-down position (8) of the work apparatus, the pressure sensor (27) and the temperature sensor (26) are arranged below a plane (45) which is parallel to the horizontal storage surface (7) and contains the rotational axis (44) of the crankshaft (16). A connecting channel (25) is formed in the sensor housing (31). The connecting channel (25) connects the pressure sensor (27) to the crankcase interior (20) and the base (35) of the connecting channel (25) slopes down toward the crankcase interior (20) in the typical put-down position (8) of the work apparatus.
US08668018B2	Selective dart system for actuating downhole tools and methods of using same Plug element systems comprise a tubular member having at least two seats. An eccentrically-shaped plug member comprises an upper end portion and a lower end portion. The upper end portion comprises an upper end diameter can be less than, greater than, or equal to a lower end portion diameter of the lower end portion. The eccentric shape of the plug member permits it to pass through a first seat and land on a second seat comprising a second seat length where both the first seat and the second seat comprise substantially equal inner seat diameters.
US08668013B2	Plug counter, fracing system and method A plug counter includes a seat receptive of a plug in a first position and capable of passing the plug in a second position. A first sleeve is in operable communication with the seat and is longitudinally movable in response to movement of the seat between the first position and the second position. A second sleeve is in operable communication with at least one of the first sleeve and the seat and is configured to index upon passage of the plug. A key is in operable communication with the seat and is configured to prevent movement of the seat to the second position after a selected number of plugs have passed the seat. A third sleeve is in operable communication with the first sleeve, and a release member is in operable communication with the third sleeve and is configured to move the third sleeve after it is released.
US08668007B2	Non-rotating casing centralizer A non-rotating downhole sleeve adapted for casing centralization in a borehole. The sleeve includes a tubular body made of hard plastic with integrally formed helical blades positioned around its outer surface and an inner surface which allows drilling fluid to circulate to form a non-rotating fluid bearing between the sleeve and the casing. The tubular sleeve comprises a continuous non-hinged wall structure for surrounding the casing. The non-rotating centralizer sleeve reduces sliding and rotating torque at the surface while drilling the casing, for example, with minimal obstruction to drilling fluid passing between the casing and the surrounding borehole.
US08668000B2	Easy break geode An improved geode breaking method, system, and apparatus are disclosed. A geode can be broken or cut into at least two pieces, or grooved with a circumferential groove. The geode pieces can be reassembled and connected to each other using a bonding material that supports the joint formed between the reassembled pieces. The bonding layer can denote a joint guideline to assist in aligning a geode breaking tool for re-breaking the geode. A support layer can be added for additional strength, support, and geode crumbling prevention. The reassembled geode can be safely and easily re-broken without crumbling the exterior and interior surface of the geode. The geode's interior crystals or concentric lines can be safely appreciated within a piece or section of a reassembled and re-broken geode.
US08667995B1	Insulated ducts and insulated ductworks A duct for use in an HVAC system is provided. The duct including an outer tube. The duct also including an inner tube capable of conveying forced air. The inner tube extending within the outer tube and along the outer tube. The duct further including a plurality of support elements spanning between the outer tube and the inner tube. The elements extending along the inner tube and the outer tube. The elements defining a plurality of channels between the outer tube and the inner tube. The outer tube, the inner tube and the elements are unitary.
US08667990B2	Hydraulic oscillating motor A hydraulic oscillating motor which has at least two working chambers which are coupled via pressure lines to a device for pressure compensation. A first working chamber is connected to a first pressure line and a second working chamber is connected to a second pressure line. The motor further has a device for pressure compensation with a first compensating cylinder and a second compensating cylinder. Each of the compensating cylinders has in each case one compensating volume and in each case one elastic force store for delimiting the respective compensating volume. The compensating volume of the first compensating cylinder is connected to the first pressure line, and the compensating volume of the second compensating cylinder is connected to the second pressure line.
US08667989B1	Aseptic or sanitary top hat diaphragm valve An aseptic valve or sanitary valve has an elongated tubular, cylindrical valve housing, with one or more top-hat diaphragms and associated valve plugs positioned transverse to the axis of the tubular valve housing. An actuator urges the stem and head of the valve plug upward so that the associated diaphragm is urged against a valve seat to close the valve. The actuator also moves these elements downward and away from the seat to open the valve. Plural valve arrangements can be joined end to end to accommodate multiple flow paths.
US08667986B2	Pressure-regulating valve for regulating the pressure in a high-pressure fuel accumulator of an internal combustion engine A pressure-regulating valve for regulating the pressure in a high-pressure fuel accumulator of an internal combustion engine, in particular in common-rail injection systems, with a valve piston (3) which is guided in an axially displaceable manner in a bore (1), is acted upon in the opening direction by the compressive force of a spring (2) and, when a magnet coil (4) is energized, undergoes an axial displacement in the direction of a first valve seat (5) counter to the compressive force of the spring (2) and counter to the pressure prevailing in the high-pressure fuel accumulator, wherein the valve piston acts on a valve-sealing element (6) which interacts with the valve seat (5).
US08667982B2	Air valve device for an inflatable article An air valve device is adapted to be fitted into an opening of an inflatable article, and includes a valve seat having a seat body that is disposed between an inflating port and a conduit, and a valve disc unit disposed in the conduit to be moved between opened and closed positions, and having a valve disc connected with a plunger, an elastomeric seal ring superimposed on a padded region of the valve disc. A rigid retaining cap is disposed to bring a base layer of the seal ring in an abutting engagement with the padded region of the valve disc so as to secure the seal ring to the valve disc while permitting a sealing marginal layer of the seal ring to be air-tightly engaged with the seat body in the closed position.
US08667976B2	Height self-adjusting walking aid A height self-adjustable walking aid includes two oppositely arranged U-shaped stands which are connected by a front stand. The two ends of each U-shaped stand are sleeved with two outer pipes respectively, and each outer pipe is mounted with a height adjusting apparatus and a control apparatus for height adjusting. The walking aid is adjustable in height according to the heights of users, so as to satisfy the requirement of allowing patients or elders with different heights to use a same equipment, thus providing great convenience for users. The heights of the two ends of each U-shaped stand could be adjustable respectively to generate a height difference between the front end and rear end of the walking end, thus enabling patients or elders to walk up and down the stairs with it.
US08667975B1	Umbrella for dripless closure An improved umbrella configured to reduce the likelihood that water on top of the umbrella will drain onto the area around the user when the umbrella is closed. The improved umbrella has a handle supporting a canopy section comprising of an upper canopy, a lower canopy and a collapsible frame attached to and disposed between the upper and lower canopies. An operating mechanism allows the user to move the umbrella between its open and closed positions. When being closed, the operating mechanism inverts the frame so the peripheral edge of the upper canopy is directed upward and the center area thereof is pulled down into an interior cavity at the top end of the handle so water will drain inward to the cavity instead of outward. The upper canopy is pulled into the cavity and the frame, with the lower canopy wrapped around it, is collapsed against the handle.
US08667972B2	Methods of preparing customized, neuromuscular mouthpieces for enhancing athletic performance TENS can be applied to the TMJ of an athlete for a period of time to deprogram muscles. After TENS, a desired position of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw can be determined and recorded. The desired position can be a physiological resting position, or a performance position in which the lower jaw is positioned anteriorly relative to the physiological resting position. A mouthpiece can be prepared including bite portions configured to substantially space apart and position the jaws according to the desired position, and substantially prevent movement of the lower jaw relative to the upper jaw. A connecting portion connects the bite portions within the mouth, and may extend labially along the anterior teeth and associated gum region of the lower jaw, and may be sized and shaped to substantially lie out of the way so as to not impede speech of the athlete.
US08667971B2	Methods of preparing customized mouthpieces for enhancing athletic performance A spacing member can be positioned between teeth of the athlete to obtain a desired position between the upper and lower jaw. At least one bite registration can be recorded while the lower jaw is in the desired position. The desired position can range from the physiological resting position, to a performance position, in which the lower jaw is positioned anteriorly in relation to the physiological resting position. The mouthpiece can be formed to include a pair of bite portions configured to substantially space apart and position the jaws generally according to the desired position, and a connecting portion can connect the bite portions within the mouth. The connecting portion may extend labially along the anterior teeth and associated gum region of the lower jaw, and may be sized and shaped to substantially lie out of the way so as to not impede speech of the athlete.
US08667967B2	Respiratory monitoring A patient interface in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is configured to be at least partially carried by a patient and to receive gas exhaled by the patient. The patient interface includes first and second cannula tubes each having a first end and a second end, the first ends are configured to be inserted into the nostrils of a patient, the first and second cannula tubes are configured to direct exhaled gas from the patient from the first ends to said second ends. The patient interface also includes first and second sensors positioned near the second ends, and the first and second sensors are configured to provide first and second signals based upon the gas, wherein the first and second signals are indicative of a physiological parameter of the patient. The patient interface also includes a communications link configured to provide the signal to a physiological monitor.
US08667965B2	Mask cushion and frame assembly A respiratory mask assembly includes a rigid mask frame and a cushion. A clip secures the cushion to the frame.
US08667962B2	Respiratory apparatus A flow generator for generating a flow of pressurized breathable gas includes a cylindrical housing and a motor supported in the housing. The motor has a shaft having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The shaft is generally coincident with an axis of the motor. A first impeller is attached to the first end of the shaft and a second impeller is attached to the second end of the shaft. A stator directs an air flow from the first impeller back towards the motor axis. The housing includes an inlet adjacent the first end of the shaft having an inlet axis generally coincident with the motor axis and at least one outlet between the first and second impellers. The at least one outlet has an outlet axis generally tangential to the motor axis.
US08667961B2	Inhaler for delivery of a powder formulation from a blister strip An inhaler for delivery of a powder-form inhalation formulation from a blister strip has a plurality of blister pockets and uses a pivotable mouthpiece cover to move the blister strip onward via a conveyor, wherein the mouthpiece cover is drivingly coupled with the conveyor by engaging an axle in a recess to drive a conveying wheel.
US08667958B2	Burner illumination in an appliance An appliance includes a cooktop, a gas burner assembly disposed in the cooktop, the gas burner assembly having a burner head portion and a burner base portion, and a light disc disposed beneath the burner head portion.
US08667951B2	System and method for preparing an optimized fuel mixture Aspects of the present invention relate to systems and method for converting ozone and fuel into mechanical energy and waste products. In some embodiments, a super-combustor may be used to provide a combustion engine with an improved ability to combust fuel. Certain embodiments of the invention may provide for an improved spark plug or modified engine having a super-combustor built in.
US08667945B2	Piston of internal combustion engine A piston for an internal combustion engine includes a piston base material including a pair of skirt portions opposed to each other in a radial direction of the piston base material. The piston includes a multiple-layer coating formed on at least one of surfaces of the pair of skirt portions. The piston further includes marks provided to respective layers of the multiple-layer coating at locations different from each other.
US08667944B2	Cylinder head assembly having an oil routing plug An engine provided herein. The engine includes a cylinder head assembly, a cap including an opening, an oil routing plug positioned in the opening including a recess traversing the plug, the recess and a portion of the wall of the opening defining a boundary of a plug oil passage, and an oil supply passage extending through the cylinder head assembly including an inlet fluidly coupled to a lubrication circuit and an outlet opening into the recess.
US08667942B2	Split-type auxiliary power combustion and emergency starting system The present invention is an installation of an emergency starting switching device and/or direct current boosted boost circuit device. When the power of the starting battery is insufficient, the electric energy of the power storage device battery is used to drive the starting motor in order to start the engine by operating the emergency starting switching device. And when the engine is started, the voltage of the ignition device or the fuel injection device is stepped up to strengthen its starting capability by means of a voltage boost by the direct current boosted boost circuit device.
US08667941B2	Fuel cock-integrated engine switch A fuel cock-integrated engine switch is provided that reduces wear resulting from mechanical contact and that can thereby enhance durability. A magnet 14 is provided in a lever 11 that is pivoted turnably between an ON position and an OFF position. A reed switch 12 connected to an ignition device 17 is arranged in the ON position. A shutoff valve 2 of a fuel passage is arranged in the OFF position of the lever 11. In the OFF position, the magnet 14 of the lever 11 approaches a valve 3 formed with a magnetic member, and the member 3 is shifted upward within the case 4 to shut off the fuel passage. When the lever 11 is operated to shift to the ON position, the valve 3 is shifted downward within the case 4 or receives a force applied by a spring to open the fuel passage.
US08667938B2	Combustion engine with variable valve actuation A valve actuating cam has a periphery that can be varied in shape to control the opening and closing of one or more valves associated with a cylinder of an internal combustion engine. One portion of a valve assembly can be moved outwardly to change the valve lift. A band can surround the movable cam portion and cam body portion, and can form at least a major portion of the exterior surface of the cam that engages a cam follower such as a valve operating rocker arm. The timing of the opening and closing of one or more valves can be adjusted by adjusting the peripheral shape of the cam. The shape can be adjusted to start a ramp portion of the cam peripheral surface earlier to cause a valve to open earlier and to end a ramp portion later to cause the valve to close later with a first load on the engine and to open and close earlier when the engine is under a second load that is less than the first load. Wedges and wedging surfaces under the band and movable with the movable portion of the cam can be used to adjust the timing.
US08667937B2	Apparatus for sensing cam phaser position A first target wheel has an opening and rotates about an axis of rotation to move the opening along a generally circular path. A second target wheel adjacent the first target wheel has a second projection projecting into the opening of the first target wheel with the second projection being movable along the generally circular path. A single sensor is positioned adjacent the generally circular path and senses movement of the opening and the second projection past the sensor. An electronic controller may be used to process signals from the sensor to determine the relative angular difference between the first target wheel and the second target wheel.
US08667933B2	Two-stroke engine A two-stroke engine, comprising: a crankcase; a cylinder connected to said crankcase; a combustion chamber defined by a reciprocally mounted piston within said cylinder; a crankshaft mounted rotatably in said crankcase and drivingly connected with said piston; at least one overflow passage connecting the crankcase and the combustion chamber when the piston is positioned in the lower dead center region; a connecting stub attached to said cylinder which contains an intake passage that opens into the crankcase and supplies fuel and combustion air, said intake passage including therein an air-fuel mixture passage, wherein said connecting stub contains at least one section of the mixture passage; at least one fuel opening for supplying fuel into said mixture passage; and a guiding rib positioned within said connecting stub and oriented longitudinally in the mixture passage and protruding into the mixture passage.
US08667928B2	Semiconductor processing Embodiments of the present disclosure include semiconductor processing methods and systems. One method includes forming a material layer on a semiconductor substrate by exposing a deposition surface of the substrate to at least a first and a second reactant sequentially introduced into a reaction chamber having an associated process temperature. The method includes removing residual first reactant from the chamber after introduction of the first reactant, removing residual second reactant from the chamber after introduction of the second reactant, and establishing a temperature differential substantially between an edge of the substrate and a center of the substrate via a purge process.
US08667924B2	Coating device and nozzle managing method A coating device including a coating mechanism which includes nozzles for ejecting a liquid material onto front and rear surfaces of the substrate while rotating a substrate in an upright state, and a nozzle managing mechanism which manages the state of the nozzles, in which the nozzle managing mechanism includes a soaking portion which dips the front end of the nozzle in a soak solution, and a discharging portion which discharges at least the soak solution, and a nozzle managing method.
US08667920B2	Underwater diver glider An underwater diver glider includes: a body having a nose and a tail, opposed left and right sides, and spaced-apart upper and lower walls, the body including: an interior space defined between the upper and lower walls that is configured to contain a gas vessel therein; an air chamber defined in an upper portion of the body beneath the upper wall; and an outlet positioned in the body near the tail and below the upper wall, in communication with the air chamber; a pair of wings extending from left and right sides of the body, respectively; and a handle extending axially aft from the body.
US08667911B2	Modular furniture System A modular furniture system having planar vertical components having slots and/or tabs, and planar horizontal components having slots and/or tabs, wherein the vertical components and the horizontal components releasably and interlockingly mate with each other to form a plurality of different pieces of furniture.
US08667908B2	Frame type table assemblies A furniture assembly comprising a frame for supporting an article of furniture, the frame including first and second spaced apart frame members, each frame member having a top end and a bottom end, the first and second frame members forming first and second substantially oppositely facing bearing surfaces along at least a portion thereof wherein the oppositely facing bearing surfaces are angled away from each other when moving from the top toward the bottom ends, at a first height, the oppositely facing bearing surfaces defining a first width dimension and a storage unit forming an opening defined by an opening rim including at least first and second substantially opposed bearing surfaces, the first and second opposed bearing surfaces defining a first length dimension that is similar to the first width dimension, wherein, the storage unit can be mounted to the frame by passing at least upper portions of the first and second frame members through the opening so that the first and second opposed bearing surfaces contact the first and second oppositely facing bearing surfaces at the first height.
US08667905B2	Pallet system A method to improve a pallet may include joining into a pallet four C-brackets, a pallet-deck, a first bottom-deck member, and a second bottom-deck member where two of the four C-brackets insides face two of the other four C-brackets' insides. The method may also include sizing a port to receive load-handling equipment tines formed by the four C-brackets, the pallet-deck, the first bottom-deck member, and the second bottom-deck member.
US08667903B1	Adjustable table assembly An adjustable table assembly provides a plurality of adjustable support surfaces positionable in a selectable configuration as desired by a user. The assembly includes a medial panel having a first side and a second side. A first slot extends into the first side of the medial panel. A first side panel is coupled to the medial panel. The first side panel is slidably inserted into the first slot whereby the first side panel is selectively extendable from the medial panel. A first side pivot hinge is coupled between the medial panel and the first side panel. Thus, the first side panel is pivotable relative to the medial panel. A plurality of legs is coupled to the medial panel.
US08667901B2	Bogie for guide rail type vehicle A bogie for a vehicle which is guided by guide wheels that rotate while keeping contact with a guide rail arranged along a guideway of the vehicle. The bogie comprises a guide frame which includes a pair of transverse beams and a connecting member arranged between the pair of the transverse beams and each of the traverse beams being equipped with the guide wheels rotatably on both ends thereof, an axle supported on a non-turning part of the bogie such that the axle is capable of turning and running wheels which are attached to both ends of the axle. The running wheels are rigidly fixed to the axle and the guide frame is fixed to the axle so as to steer the guide frame, the axle and the running wheels integrally.
US08667900B2	Vehicle body tilting device and vehicle body tilting method for rail vehicle A vehicle body tilting device for railway vehicle is arranged to control the tilt of a vehicle body by exchanging compressed air between a pair of left and right air springs. This device includes: a control valve for tilt operation, connected between the air springs; a pump for tilt operation, connected between the air springs through the control valve; and a control device for controlling both the control valve and the pump. The control valve forms a circulation flow path for allowing compressed air, delivered by the pump, to circulate therethrough. Before controlling the tilt of the vehicle body, the control device drives in advance the pump to circulate the compressed air through the circulation flow path to provide a delivery standby state, changes over at predetermined timing the position of the control valve, and delivers the compressed air from one of the air springs to the other.
US08667899B2	Combined cycle powered railway locomotive A combined cycle power plant for a railway locomotive is disclosed. In one embodiment, the power plant comprises two prime movers operating independently of one another. The waste energy of one prime mover is used as the energy source of the other prime mover. The shaft work of each prime mover is connected to a common load. The shaft work of the first prime mover is directly connected to the load, whereas the shaft work of the second prime mover is selectively coupled or decoupled to the load using a clutch.
US08667898B2	Amusement ride load and unload method and associated apparatus An amusement ride apparatus includes a suspended cable and a carriage that supports a user. The carriage is supported on and movable along the suspended cable. Additionally, the apparatus includes a load/unload mechanism that includes a tethering portion and a retractor. The tethering portion is removably coupleable to at least one of the suspended cable and carriage. The retractor is selectively operable in a first mode to retract the tethering portion when removably coupled to the at least one of the suspended cable and carriage to lower the carriage relative to the platform from a raised position to a lowered position and in a second mode to extend the tethering portion when removably coupled to the at least one of the suspended cable and carriage to raise the carriage relative to the platform from the lowered position to the raised position.
US08667896B2	Screen print reflection transfer and process for the manufacture thereof The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a screen print reflection transfer product and to reflection transfer systems produced by this method. According to said method, the reflecting color is provided with a multitude of reflecting particles, said reflecting particles protruding from the surface of the top color coat.
US08667894B2	Piling and compressing pieces of compressible material System and methods for piling and compressing pieces of insulation wool. The system includes a piling tower for receiving and piling multiple pieces of insulation wool and compression plates for compressing multiple pieces of insulation wool. The system includes a first and a second compression plate having plane and smooth upper and lower surfaces, whereby the compression plate can be slid out from between two compressed pieces of insulation wool. The compression plates receive a batch between the compression plates and compress the batch by moving one compression plate towards the other. The pressure on the insulation wool does not need to be relieved after the pieces have been compressed once as the system and method makes it possible to gradually increase compression toward the bottom of the piling tower by shifting between the first and second compression plate being used for compressing a batch of pieces of insulation wool.
US08667890B2	Cartridge for coffee and soluble products for preparing beverages A cartridge (1) for coffee or soluble products for producing a beverage, includes a container (2) able to contain the coffee or soluble product, a lid (6) disposed over the container so as to define a top wall for entry into the container (2) of the hot water under pressure for formation of the beverage, a filter (4) suitable for being positioned inside the container (2) above a bottom wall (20) of the container through which the beverage exits, wherein the bottom wall (20) of the container has a less thick central area (22), at the center of which are disposed thickening ribs (27) along the edge of which there are etchings (26) able to break when the liquid inside the cartridge reaches a pre-set pressure value, so as to form flexible tongues (28) which give rise to apertures (50) through which the beverage is delivered.
US08667889B2	Machine for the preparation of beverages by infusion using cartridges A machine for the preparation of beverages by infusion using cartridges; the machine includes an infusion assembly; characterized in that the infusion assembly includes: a slide for introduction of a single cartridge; a lever for operation of a piston; the piston suitable to move rectilinearly along a direction and having a first resting position and a second working position; a chamber suitable for receiving the cartridge; the slide being positioned in an intermediate position between the first resting position and the second working position; the slide having a predefined resting position so that the capsule is positioned resting on an edge of the chamber.
US08667888B2	Flexible chamber A chamber having an internal volume, end surfaces and a side wall. The chamber is adapted to change its volume by leakage-free displacement of the end surface. The side wall has at least three adjacent sleeves (1-6), and an elastic seal (8-14) is arranged between each of the sleeves, such that the seals are pressurized and expanded when the sleeves are moved due to a displacement of the end surfaces.
US08667887B2	Actuator for a closing element of a valve An actuator for a rotary function element, having a housing with at least one pressure means supply and being closed at both sides by a cover, in which housing a piston is guided to reciprocate in a sealing manner, the piston containing diametrically opposed, convolution-like connecting links for a transverse axis of an actuator shaft rotatably mounted in one cover, and having two guide rods firmly anchored in the housing only at one end and engaging into guides in the piston, with the one guide rod anchored in one cover, whereas the other guide rod is anchored in the other cover, and the two guides end blind in the piston in opposite directions.
US08667881B1	Selectable dual mode trigger for semiautomatic firearms One embodiment of a trigger system with an integral selector for semi-automatic firearms. A selector allows the user to choose between two modes and rates of fire. A trigger (1) is made to allow passage of the lower portion of a selector cam (5) to the exterior of the firearm. A selector lever (6) is affixed to the lower end of the selector cam (5) on the exterior of the firearms action. Turning the selector lever (6) rotates the selector cam (5) which tilts a pivotal disconnector (3) on its axis, varying the amount of disconnector (3) engagement with a hammer (2). The variance in the disconnector (3) engagement causes the firearm to fire in one of two modes, firing one round with a trigger pull and resetting with trigger release, or firing one round with trigger pull, and firing another round with trigger release. Other embodiments are described.
US08667880B1	Cabin for a Humvee vehicle The present invention is directed to new and improved armor protection that can replace the existing crew cabin with a field replaceable armored crew compartment to be attached to the existing body of an HMMWV military vehicle to protect the military personnel within from explosive blasts, roll-over or collisions. In accordance with the concepts of the present invention, in order to provide additional protection to personnel in the HMMWV crew compartment, a sacrificial V shaped hull is designed to be attached onto the underside of the crew compartment over the HMMWV frame rails. In the event of an explosion underneath the HMMWV, the V shaped hull will shield the personnel inside the cabin.
US08667879B2	Multilayer backing materials for composite armor A multilayer backing composite for armor plate systems. One embodiment provides a ceramic layer and a bonded multilayer backing layer bonded to the ceramic layer. The backing layer can be formed from at least two layers each of alternating elastomeric interstitial layers and UHMWPE layers having an areal density in the range of about 125 to 400 g/m2. The areal density of the stack can be in the range of about 4 to 15 lbs/ft2, and specifically about 6.98 lbs/ft2. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least two UHMWPE layers nearer to the ceramic layer of the stack can have a lower areal density than at least one layer further from the ceramic layer. The ceramic layer can be SiC and 0.280″ thick; each rubber layer can be about 0.01″; and each UHMWPE layer can be about 0.15″.
US08667878B1	Multi-function manual salad preparation unit A multi-function salad preparation unit is provided, including a salad bowl having an upper rim and a mandoline slicer. The mandoline slicer fits on the upper rim of the salad bowl and includes a main platform along which food is to be slid, and a cutting tool disposable in the main platform, with a space adjacent the cutting edge of the tool. When food is slid across the main platform, the cutting edge removes a quantity of the food which falls through the space and into the salad bowl. The mandoline slicer preferably includes a first slot with the cutting tool insertable into the first slot substantially co-planar with an upper surface of the main platform. A second slot is also preferably provided, disposed below the upper surface, for cutting tool storage. Multiple interchangeable cutting tools, e.g., slicer(s), dicer(s), grater(s), are selectively disposable in the first and second slots.
US08667870B2	Multi torque limiting driver A torque driver includes a driver arm with a pivot mounting hole formed adjacent one end, a driver spindle mounting slot or sockets spaced from the pivot mounting hole providing multiple mounting positions for retaining the driver spindle, and a locking detent. A locking element engages the locking detent, a load applicator generates a selected load onto the locking element, and a handle is pivotally attached to the driver arm at the pivot mounting hole and has finger groove for applying a tightening force. The locking detent, the locking element and the load applicator cooperate to permit relative movement between the driver arm and the handle when the tightening force applied at the finger groove is at a pre-determined value.
US08667868B2	Water heater wrench adapter and method of use A water heater wrench adapter that comprises a rotating adapter and receiver. The rotating adapter is disposed within a receiver in light interference fit, wherein the rotating adapter is frictionally engaged by the receiver to permit rotation of the rotating adapter within the receiver. The water heater wrench adapter is utilized by frictionally engaging the insulator profile with the rotating adapter, thereby securing the water heater element within the rotating adapter. The hex nut of the water heater element and the hex extension of the receiver are aligned and the hex end of a water heater wrench is disposed to engage the combined hex nut and hex extension. Thus, the water heater wrench can then be utilized to either hold the water heater element in position for installation in a water heater or remove and retain the water heater element from the water heater.
US08667867B2	Powered bottle opening device with integrated wrapper cutter The present disclosure provides a bottle opening device comprising first and second receptacles to receive at least a portion of a neck of a bottle, with the first receptacle including a wrapper cutting apparatus having at least one cutting element configured to cut a sever in a wrapper on the neck of the bottle, wherein the cutting element is movable towards and away from the wrapper on the neck of the bottle, and the second receptacle including a stopper extractor apparatus configured to remove a stopper from the bottle.
US08667864B2	Power transmission apparatus In order to avoid competition with other components for a space, to thereby improve the degree of designing freedom, the power transmission apparatus includes a transfer case housing and supporting a ring gear and a pinion gear that orthogonally mesh with each other and form an orthogonal gear set, the transfer case is divided into a first case part and a second case part along a division plane that extends along an axis of rotation of the ring gear, and the first and second case parts and are fixed together along the division plane with bolts.
US08667863B2	Foot cradle apparatus of a muscle training device A foot cradle apparatus of a muscle training device is provided, having a foot cradle with a tread and a side wall at least partially limiting the tread, and a fixation unit for fixing a human foot in the foot cradle. A foot fixation unit that is simple to handle and has small dimensions and a low weight is created in that the fixation unit is formed as a lockable, pivotable bracket, whose pivot bearing has a pivot axis oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the foot cradle and is provided in a compact bearing unit which is connected fixedly at least indirectly to the foot cradle and which is attached to an inner side wall, close to the inner side of a patient's foot, of the foot cradle and is connected fixedly to the tread via the inner side wall.
US08667860B2	Active gripper for haptic devices An active gripper for a haptic device including a parallel kinematics structure providing at least three degrees of freedom including three translational degrees of freedom, wherein the gripper comprises a first contact surface being adapted for contact by a first portion of a hand of a user, a second contact surface being adapted for contact by a second portion of the user's hand, which hand's second portion being moveable in relation to the hand's first portion, and a moveable member arranged between the first contact surface and the second contact surface and being adapted to actively move the first contact surface and the second contact surface in relation to each other.
US08667853B2	Measuring transducer of vibration-type with two counteroscillator arms Measuring transducer of vibration-type for a fluid flowing in a pipeline. The measuring transducer includes, in such case, a curved measuring tube for conveying the fluid, a counteroscillator having two counteroscillator arms, which are arranged on both sides of the measuring tube, and which, in each case, essentially follow the curve of the measuring tube, and which are coupled to one another in such a manner, that, during operation, they oscillate in phase with one another, and which are affixed to the measuring tube on the inlet side and outlet sides for forming corresponding coupling zones. The measuring transducer also includes an exciter mechanism, via which, during operation, the measuring tube and the counteroscillator are excitable to oscillations of opposite phase to one another. In such case, the counteroscillator arms are formed from a different material than the measuring tube, and the material of the counteroscillator arms has a thermal expansion coefficient essentially equal to that of the material of the measuring tube.
US08667852B2	Flow meter including a balanced reference member The present invention relates to a vibrating flow meter (210) and a method of providing a vibrating flow meter (210). The vibrating flow meter (210) includes a conduit (103A) and a driver (104) configured to vibrate the conduit (103A). The vibrating flow meter (210) also includes a first pick-off (105). The first pick-off (105) includes a first pick-off component (105a) and a second pick-off component (105b). The vibrating flow meter (210) also includes a reference member (150). The first pick-off component (105a) is coupled to the reference member (150) while the second pick-off component (105b) is coupled to the conduit (103A) proximate the first pick-off component (105a). The vibrating flow meter (210) also includes a balancing element (253) coupled to the reference member (150).
US08667847B2	Ultrasonic testing apparatus for pipe or tube end portion An ultrasonic testing apparatus for a pipe end portion, which enables accurate ultrasonic testing, comprises an ultrasonic probe disposed under the pipe end portion. The probe 1 transmits ultrasonic waves to the pipe end portion and receives the ultrasonic waves therefrom. A probe holder houses the probe which is disposed under the pipe end portion to face the pipe end portion and follows the pipe rotation. The probe holder comprises a coupling medium reserver part that surrounds a space between the probe and the pipe end portion to contain a coupling medium therein and comprises a coupling medium reserver part body into which the coupling medium is supplied. An annular bellows part, which communicates with the reserver part body, can expand and contract vertically and an annular spacer, which is attached to the upper side of the bellows part and an upper surface thereof has a flat horizontal surface.
US08667844B1	Ultrasonic scalar adhesion test apparatus and method for paints and finishes Presented is a system and method for testing the adhesion of coatings to substrates using an ultrasonic scalar. The system comprises a body, a flexible scalpel extending from said body, and a source of ultrasonic waves. The flexible scalpel applies pressure and ultrasonic waves to a coating that is removed when the adhesion of the coating to the substrate is substandard. The method comprises applying an flexible scalpel extending from an ultrasonic adhesion test device to a coating, applying ultrasonic waves through the flexible scalpel to the coating while moving across the coating, removing the coating if there is less than an acceptable adhesion of the coating to the substrate, and inspecting the coating to determine if coating was removed from the substrate.
US08667843B2	Resonance testing apparatus and articulation assembly A resonance testing apparatus has a plurality of arms for supporting a workpiece. At least one of said arms incorporates an articulation assembly having: a strut, a joint element which is movable in response to movement of the strut, and a clamp arrangement for clamping the joint element. The assembly has a first condition in which the joint element is movable and a second condition in which the clamp arrangement acts on the joint element to damp or restrict movement of the strut. The assembly includes a seating for the joint element, and a biasing arrangement for the seating. The assembly has a first condition in which the joint element is arranged on the seating and is movable on the seating and a second condition in which the biasing arrangement acts on the seating to damp or restrict movement of the joint element on the seating.
US08667842B2	Variable capacitance electronic device and microelectromechanical device incorporating such electronic device An electronic device includes a capacitive component with variable capacitance coupled to a control stage that controls the capacitance, based on a reference signal, with a reference frequency, and an excitation signal, that is a multiple of the reference frequency. The capacitive component includes a variable capacitive network having a plurality of switched capacitors, each being switchable between a first configuration, where it is connected between connection terminals of the capacitive component, and a second configuration, where it is connected at most to one of the connection terminals. The control stage includes a logic module, coupled to the variable capacitive network for switching periodically each capacitor between the first configuration and the second configuration. A sign circuit, coupled to the capacitive component supplies a control signal having edges concordant with the excitation signal in one half-period of each cycle of the reference signal and discordant edges in the other half-period.
US08667840B2	Water level sensing apparatus There is provided a water level sensing apparatus including: a body disposed to be exposed within a liquid tank and having an accommodating space therein; and a capacitance detecting unit accommodated in the accommodating space of the body, wherein the capacitance detecting unit compares an upper side capacitance value and a lower side capacitance value and turns on or off an output signal. Because a changeable reference that the capacitance values of a reference surface and a detected surface of the body are simultaneously changed is used, even if the body comes in contact with moisture or debris, the reference surface and the detected surface are equally affected by the moisture or debris, thus reducing the occurrence of malfunction.
US08667839B2	Heat conduction-type sensor for calibrating effects of temperature and type of fluid, and thermal flow sensor and thermal barometric sensor using this sensor A heat conduction-type sensor corrects (calibrate) effects of a temperature of a measurement target fluid and a type of the fluid on a measurement value in measurement of a flow velocity, a mass flow, or an atmospheric pressure. Also provided is a thermal flow sensor and a thermal barometric sensor with this correcting function, high sensitivity, simple configuration, and low cost. At least two thin films that are thermally separated from a substrate through the same cavity are provided, one thin film comprises a heater and a temperature sensor, and the other thin film comprises at least one temperature sensor, the temperature sensors being thin-film thermocouples. The thin film is arranged in proximity so that it is heated only through the measurement target fluid by heating of the heater. A calibration circuit calculates and compares quantities concerning heat transfer coefficients of a standard fluid and the unknown measurement target fluid.
US08667834B2	Abnormality detection apparatus and abnormality detection method for rankine cycle system An abnormality detection apparatus for a Rankine cycle system includes: a main body that vaporizes a cooling medium that circulates in an internal combustion engine by giving waste heat to the cooling medium; a gas-liquid separator that separates the cooling medium into a gas-phase and a liquid-phase; a superheater that gives waste heat of the engine to the cooling medium; a condensate header tank that stores the liquid-phase cooling medium; a vane pump that pumps the liquid-phase cooling medium. If abnormality of a cooling medium supply portion that supplies the cooling medium to the engine is not detected, the abnormality detection apparatus determines whether a vane pump has abnormality on the basis of the amount of the liquid-phase cooling medium in the gas-liquid separator, the temperature of the gas-phase cooling medium in the superheater and the amount of the liquid-phase cooling medium in the condensate header tank.
US08667828B2	Crankshaft production method and production apparatus A crankshaft production method includes: pressurizing both end portions of a shaft blank with a pressurization surface of a die, the pressurization surface being inclined in a specific direction so as to come close to the other end side of the shaft blank, and applying an axial compressive load to the shaft blank, while restricting a radial deformation in a predetermined zone of the shaft blank in a direction other than the specific direction, thereby swaging the shaft blank and causing the predetermined zone to buckle in the specific direction.

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