| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08673109B2 |
Method of making a layered bituminous membrane, and an apparatus therefor
The invention relates to a method of making a grooved reinforced layered bituminous membrane (1) comprising the steps of: providing a web (A) of a reinforcing material, applying a layer (3) of a hot liquid adhesive, and applying a roller (10) having a surface pattern of grooves onto said layer (3) of an adhesive, to form a pattern of grooves (4) in the surface of said layer an adhesive. |
| US08673101B2 |
Fiber reinforced rebar with shaped sections
A composite reinforcing bar is formed by providing a reinforcing material supply of fiber strands ravings; a resin supply bath, and a puller for pulling the resin-impregnated reinforcing material through the resin bath. The material is wound on a helical holder, while the resin remains unset, rotated about its axis on a drive system so that the material is wrapped the holder which is indexed along it axis and removed when full for curing the resin on the holder while the body remains wrapped thereon. The bar is wrapped with the turns side by side and is then stretched out and held by longitudinal straight bars while the reinforcing structure so formed is embedded in a cast material. |
| US08673096B2 |
Method of fabricating pneumatic tire
A smooth resin film including an ultraviolet ray absorbing agent is pasted to an outer surface of a side portion of an unvulcanized tire, the unvulcanized tire is vulcanized and molded in a state of pasting the resin film, thereby, a pneumatic tire provided with the resin film at the outer surface of the tire side portion to be able to be exfoliated therefrom is fabricated. |
| US08673091B2 |
Pretreatment compositions and methods for coating a metal substrate
Disclosed are methods for treating metal substrates, including ferrous substrates, such as cold rolled steel and electrogalvanized steel. The methods include contacting the substrate with a pretreatment composition that includes: (a) a group IIIB and/or IVB metal; (b) free fluorine; (c) a metal fluoride salt formed from a metal which forms a fluoride salt having a pKsp of at least 11; and (d) water. |
| US08673090B2 |
Dishwasher
A water flow control device for an appliance includes a sump to collect water from a washtub, a supply passage to supply water from the sump to the washtub, a drain passage, coupled to the sump to discharge water; and a disposer to dispose contaminates in water from the sump. The disposer is in fluid communication with the drain passage but not the supply passage. |
| US08673088B1 |
Foam dispensing device
A device for combining multiple components into a foam mixture and dispensing the foam mixture into a pipe is described. The multiple components are combined immediately prior to dispensing, which maximizes activity for labile, biologically active components whose degradation accelerates upon combining components. Embodiments of the device are relatively light weight and adapted to removably couple to sewer cleaning vehicles. |
| US08673087B2 |
Reducing copper defects during a wet chemical cleaning of exposed copper surfaces in a metallization layer of a semiconductor device
A method for treating a semiconductor device includes dissolving an inert gas species in a wet chemical cleaning solution and treating a material layer of a semiconductor device with the wet chemical cleaning solution in ambient atmosphere. The inert gas species is oversaturated in the wet chemical cleaning solution in the ambient atmosphere. |
| US08673086B2 |
Method and device for cleaning a substrate and storage medium
In a cleaning method, a substrate having a pattern formed on the surface thereof can be cleaned by using a cleaning fluid, while preventing the pattern protrusions from being flattened when the cleaning fluid is removed or dried. The cleaning method includes the steps of: loading a substrate onto a loading platform inside a processing chamber; heating the substrate; and supplying a cleaning fluid onto the surface of the substrate. The substrate is heated in the substrate heating step so that the Leidenfrost phenomenon occurs and steam of the cleaning fluid is interposed between the substrate and droplets of the cleaning fluid supplied to the substrate in the cleaning fluid supply step. |
| US08673079B2 |
Film deposition apparatus and substrate processing apparatus
A film deposition apparatus includes: a turntable; a first reaction gas supply part and a second reaction gas supply part extending from a circumferential edge toward a rotation center of the turntable; and a first separation gas supply part provided between the first and second reaction gas supply parts. A first space contains the first reaction gas supply part and has a first height. A second space contains the second reaction gas supply part and has a second height. A third space contains a first separation gas supply part and has a height lower than the first and second heights. A motor provided under the rotation center of the turntable rotates the turntable. A rotation shaft of the turntable and a drive shaft of the motor are coupled without generation of slip. |
| US08673077B2 |
Vapor deposition device, vapor deposition method, and organic EL display device
Vapor deposition particles (91) discharged from at least one vapor deposition source opening (61) pass through a plurality of limiting openings (82) of a limiting unit (80) and a plurality of mask openings (71) of a vapor deposition mask (70), and adhere to a substrate (10) that relatively moves along a second direction (10a) so as to form a coating film. The limiting unit includes a plurality of plate members stacked on one another. Accordingly, it is possible to efficiently form a vapor deposition coating film in which edge blurring is suppressed on a large-sized substrate at a low cost. |
| US08673073B2 |
Methods for purifying metallurgical silicon
A method for purifying silicon bearing materials for photovoltaic applications includes providing metallurgical silicon into a crucible apparatus. The metallurgical silicon is subjected to at least a thermal process to cause the metallurgical silicon to change in state from a first state to a second state, the second stage being a molten state not exceeding 1500 Degrees Celsius. At least a first portion of impurities is caused to be removed from the metallurgical silicon in the molten state. The molten metallurgical silicon is cooled from a lower region to an upper region to cause the lower region to solidify while a second portion of impurities segregate and accumulate in a liquid state region. The liquid state region is solidified to form a resulting silicon structure having a purified region and an impurity region. The purified region is characterized by a purity of greater than 99.9999%. |
| US08673071B2 |
Joint compound using predispersed dedusting agents
This method relates to making a joint compound that includes predispersing a dedusting agent in water to make a predispersed dedusting agent. Dry components, including at least one filler, are combined to make a dry mixture. Process water is pumped into a vessel and the predispersed dedusting agent is introduced to the vessel. The dry mixture is then added to the vessel and all components are blended to make a homogeneous product. |
| US08673070B2 |
Process for producing silicon oxide thin film or silicon oxynitride compound thin film and thin film obtained by the process
Disclosed is a process for producing a silicon oxide or silicon oxynitride thin film having a high level of water vapor and oxygen barrier property and a high strength with a higher efficiency by a solution process which is advantageous in productivity. Also disclosed is a thin film that is obtained by the process and is useful, for example, as a protective film for electric elements such as organic EL elements. A solution containing a smectite group silicate layered compound and a silazane compound is coated onto a surface of a substrate by a liquid phase process to form a film. The thin film thus obtained is exposed to ultraviolet light under an oxygen atmosphere to produce a silicon oxide thin film or a silicon oxynitride compound thin film containing the smectite group silicate layered compound. The smectite group silicate compound is a material represented by the following general formula. A1/3BmSi4O10.nH2O [Chemical Formula 1] |
| US08673065B2 |
Sintered fiber filter
Sintered fiber filters are provided that can afford high particle capture efficiency and/or low pressure drop during operation, and are useful in applications such as semiconductor processing. The shape of at least a portion of the individual fibers (e.g., metal fibers) used to make the filter have a three-dimensional aspect, which allows for a low packing density and high porosity filtration media. Certain filters have a cylindrical or tube-like shape with tapered ends of higher density. Methods of making such filters, for example, using axial pressing, are also described. |
| US08673059B2 |
Rapid temperature swing adsorption contactors for gas separation
Novel adsorbent contactors and methods are disclosed herein for use in temperature swing adsorption for gas separation applications, as well as for heat exchange applications. |
| US08673057B2 |
Zeolite DDR membranes
DDR nanocrystals of uniform size and structure were synthesized using hydrothermal secondary growth and then used to make DDR zeolite membranes and for any other use where uniform, small DDR zeolite crystals are beneficial. |
| US08673056B2 |
Process and apparatus for the purification of methane rich gas streams
The invention is directed to processes and apparatuses for gas treatment, in particular for the purification of methane rich gas streams, such as gas obtained from the conversion from organic matter (“biogas”). In accordance with the present invention there is provided an apparatus and a process for producing a purified methane comprising gas stream (P) from a methane containing gas stream (A), comprising the steps of: (a) pressurising said methane containing gas stream (A) and subsequently cooling it, whereby a stream comprising condensed contaminants (C) and a methane comprising stream (B) are obtained; (b) optionally feeding said methane comprising stream (B) to an adsorption unit and/or a catalytic conversion unit, whereby the concentration of contaminants in stream (B) is further decreased; and (c) cooling the methane comprising stream (B) to a temperature which is sufficient to condensate CO2 from said stream (B), whereby said purified methane comprising gas stream (P) is obtained. |
| US08673055B2 |
Improving the recovery of precious metals from recalcitrant refractory ore
The invention provides a novel process for improving the recovery of precious metals from recalcitrant refractory ores by the use of hydrofluoric acid dissolved in ionic liquids. The solution of hydrogen fluoride gas in an ionic liquid is contacted with dry crushed ore at a temperature and for a period of time commensurate with the fracturing of a specific recalcitrant refractory ore. The excess ionic liquid is separated from the ore and the fractured ore is further treated with dilute sodium cyanide solution to extract precious metals in greater yields. |
| US08673053B2 |
Method of hardening an interface of carbon material using nano silicon carbide coating
Disclosed is a method for hardening an interface of a carbon material by using nano silicon carbide coating. A carbon material-aluminum composite prepared by the disclosed method is light in weight, and has a high dynamic strength, and thus can be applied to currently used cars and aluminum wheels. Furthermore, the composite can be utilized as a material for aircrafts, spacecraft, ships, etc. requiring a high strength. |
| US08673049B2 |
Low-temperature sintered silver nanoparticle composition and electronic articles formed using the same
A silver nanoparticle composition is provided which is possible to be sintered through sintering at a low temperature in a short time and to form silver electro conductive film and wiring which is favorable for adhesion to a substrate and low in resistance, and articles using the same are provided. The silver nanoparticle composition is provided, wherein a main component of a solvent is water, a pH of the composition is within a range of 5.3 to 8.0, a silver nanoparticle included in the composition is protected by an organic acid or a derivative thereof, and the content of the organic acid or the derivative thereof with respect to silver is 2 to 20% by mass. |
| US08673047B2 |
Process for producing foamed slag
A process and material for producing foamed slag by which the foaming of a slag with a high chromium oxide content can be achieved. An electric arc furnace is charged with a mixture of metal oxides and carbon and, below the slag at the metal-slag interface, the metal oxide is reduced by carbon and limestone and becomes thermally discordant. The occurring gases cause the slag to foam due to the formation of bubbles. |
| US08673046B1 |
Process for removing and recovering phosphorus from animal waste
A process for removing phosphorus from solid poultry or animal wastes involving (a) mixing solid poultry or animal wastes with water and acid at a pH lower that about 5.0 and higher than about 3.0 to form (i) a liquid extract that contains suspended solids of about 3.5 g/L and soluble phosphorus and (ii) a washed solid residue (having a N:P ratio of at least more than 4 expressed on an elemental basis), (b) separating the liquid extract from the washed solid residue to form separated liquid extract and separated washed solid residue, (c) mixing the separated liquid extract with an alkaline earth base to a pH of about 8.0 to about 11.0, (d) mixing the liquid extract with a flocculant to form (i) precipitated phosphorus solids with P2O5 content greater than about 10% and (ii) a liquid, and (e) separating the precipitated phosphorus solids from the liquid to form separated phosphorus solids and separated liquid. The process is conducted at a temperature greater than about 5° C. and less than about 50° C. The solid poultry or animal wastes are not pretreated prior to mixing the solid poultry or animal wastes with water and acid; such pretreatments include those that may cause the complete or partial loss of oxidizable organic carbon and nitrogen. |
| US08673044B2 |
Process for producing aluminum titanate-based ceramics body
The invention is to provide a process for producing an aluminum titanate-based ceramics body, wherein, as a regenerated starting material, a fired body recovered in a production process for an aluminum titanate-based ceramics body is used and the aluminum titanate-based ceramics body excellent in a mechanical strength and in a thermal characteristics such as low thermal expansion and heat resistance can be obtained. The invention provides a process for producing an aluminum titanate-based ceramics body using a fired ceramics body recovered in a production process for an aluminum titanate-based ceramics body, comprising the following steps: a step of preparing a pulverized product having a median particle diameter of 100 μm or less from the fired ceramics body; a step of preparing a regenerated clay containing the pulverized product and water; a step of shaping the regenerated clay to form a shaped body; and a step of firing the shaped body. |
| US08673043B2 |
Fluid filter
A straight through flow filter element is provided in which the seal and/or seal support may be arranged to be generally flush with the flow face of the filter media pack. In some embodiments, long filter media packs may be facilitated. Additionally, certain processing advantages in simplicity of molding a seal on the support can be accomplished. |
| US08673042B2 |
Filter element and filter device
A filter element may include an annular filter body and an internal support frame. The filter body may be supported radially on the inside of the internal support frame. At least one end disk may be disposed at the filter body and the internal support frame. The end disk may have a central disk opening and a radial seal arranged coaxially to the disk opening. The internal support frame may have a plurality of radial centering elements distributed in the circumferential direction. The frame may be projected inwardly and extends to a radial end on the inside at an inner wall of the end disk. The inner wall may enclose the disk opening. |
| US08673041B2 |
Filter holding frame with adjustable clamping mechanism and slot for pre-filter
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a filter frame assembly adapted for clamping in a housing is provided. The frame assembly includes a frame having a downstream frame member coupled to a cross-member, the downstream frame member and cross-member adapted to fit within the housing. At least two clamp mechanisms are coupled to frame assembly. Each of the clamp mechanisms include a rotatable rod coupled to a handle which is used to displace the frame assembly. The handle is configured to be clear of a filter receiving aperture defined above the cross-member when the handle is in both of an open or a closed position. |
| US08673040B2 |
Filter construction for use with air in-take for gas turbine and methods
The filter of the invention is a cartridge filter comprising a structure that can maintain a filter medium in an air stream to filter particulates to protect a gas turbine power system. The filter combines a mechanically adequate filter structure and an effective filter medium for to obtain a useful system. |
| US08673036B2 |
Quench chamber assembly for a gasifier
A gasifier includes a combustion chamber in which a fuel is burned to produce a syngas and a particulated solid residue. A quench chamber having a liquid coolant is disposed downstream of the combustion chamber. A dip tube couples the combustion chamber to the quench chamber. The syngas is directed from the combustion chamber to the quench chamber via the dip tube to contact the liquid coolant and produce a cooled syngas. A draft tube surrounds the dip tube such that an annular passage is formed between the draft tube and the dip tube. An asymmetric or symmetric faceted baffle is disposed proximate to an exit path of the quench chamber. The cooled syngas is directed through the annular passage and impacted against the baffle so as to remove entrained liquid content from the cooled syngas before the cooled syngas is directed through the exit path. |
| US08673035B2 |
Solar-thermal reaction processing
In an embodiment, a method of conducting a high temperature chemical reaction that produces hydrogen or synthesis gas is described. The high temperature chemical reaction is conducted in a reactor having at least two reactor shells, including an inner shell and an outer shell. Heat absorbing particles are included in a gas stream flowing in the inner shell. The reactor is heated at least in part by a source of concentrated sunlight. The inner shell is heated by the concentrated sunlight. The inner shell re-radiates from the inner wall and heats the heat absorbing particles in the gas stream flowing through the inner shell, and heat transfers from the heat absorbing particles to the first gas stream, thereby heating the reactants in the gas stream to a sufficiently high temperature so that the first gas stream undergoes the desired reaction(s), thereby producing hydrogen or synthesis gas in the gas stream. |
| US08673033B2 |
Display control circuit and projector apparatus
A display control circuit includes a device driving unit that alternately writes a left video image and a right video image in a time-division manner to a light modulating device, a light source driving unit that increases or reduces the brightness of a light source that emits light passing through the light modulating device, a shutter eyeglass driving unit that provides shutter eyeglasses with a shutter driving signal, and a control unit that instructs the light source driving unit to reduce the brightness of the light source in the duration of a switchover between the left video image and the right video image for the light modulating device or instructs the light source driving unit to increase the brightness of the light source in the duration in which the left video image or the right video image is written solely to the light modulating device. |
| US08673032B2 |
Method of manufacturing coke from low grade coal
The present invention provides methods of transforming low rank coals into high quality metallurgical coke, and the coke products produced by such methods. |
| US08673030B2 |
Methods of producing water-resistant solid fuels
The invention provides a method by which high moisture low rank coal or other carbonaceous material may be transformed into a high-energy, water resistant product. The raw feed is comminuted then mechanically compacted by a roller press with rolls of a specified profile to mobilize the inherent moisture and collapse most of the interstitial pore space. The mobilized moisture is then removed by low-temperature drying and the material is sized and shaped to form a product that is resistant to re-absorption of water or other liquids. The present invention will promote the use of low rank coal for liquefaction and gasification. |
| US08673025B1 |
Wet electrolytic capacitor and method for fabricating of improved electrolytic capacitor cathode
A process for making a valve metal material useful for forming electrolytic devices comprising the steps of: establishing multiple tantalum or niobium components in a billet of a ductile material; working the billet to a series of reduction steps to form said tantalum or niobium components into elongated elements; cutting the resulting elongated elements and leaching the ductile metal from the elements; washing and mixing the cut elements; and forming the cut elements into a sheet. The resulting sheet may be formed into anodes and cathodes and assembled to form a wet electrolytic capacitor. |
| US08673023B2 |
Method for preparing a coloring composition
A method for manufacturing a coloring agent for keratin fibers from a first composition A and a second composition B is provided. The method comprises directing the first composition A from a container A by a filler apparatus through an inlet opening into a second container B containing the second composition B. In container B, as a result of the introduction of composition A and/or the action of the filler apparatus, at least one exit opening is formed out of which the coloring agent for keratin fibers exits from container B as a mixture of compositions A and B. |
| US08673021B2 |
Arthroscopic tissue scaffold delivery device
A small diameter delivery device capable of delivering a tissue loaded scaffold arthroscopically to a tissue defect or injury site without reducing the pressure at the injury site is provided. The scaffold delivery device of the present invention comprises a plunger system that includes two main components: an insertion tube and an insertion rod. The insertion tube has a flared proximal end for holding a tissue scaffold prior to delivery. An elongate, hollow body extends from the flared proximal end to a distal end of the insertion tube, and defines a passageway that extends through the body for delivery of the tissue scaffold. The insertion rod has an elongate body that extends into a handle at a proximal end and a tip at a distal end. The insertion rod is configured to be removably disposed within the insertion tube for sliding along the passageway to effect delivery of the tissue scaffold through the insertion tube. |
| US08673015B2 |
Concave resurfacing prosthesis
A glenoid component for use with a prosthetic humeral component for use in performing shoulder arthroplasty is provided. The glenoid component may be fitted at least partially into a cavity formed in the glenoid vault. The glenoid component includes a body having a stem portion for inserting at least partially into the cavity formed in the glenoid vault. The stem portion cooperates with the interior wall of the cavity formed in the glenoid vault. The body has a bearing portion for articulating cooperation with the prosthetic humeral component. |
| US08673014B2 |
Method of cranial repair and cranial repair implant molding device
A method of cranial repair and the cranial implant molding device used therein, the device having a frame or base that receives a bottom or convex molding plate and a top or concave molding plate in a manner whereby the two plates are separated a distance to receive a settable or curable implant forming material therebetween. The plates are separated by a compressible member such that by the use of threaded mechanical fasteners or similar members the distance between the two plates can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the mechanical members. The thickness of the implant is varied by varying the separation distance on different sides of the frame. |
| US08673007B2 |
Implant with insertion device and method
Embodiments of the invention include expandable medical implant systems and methods. The systems may include devices to reinforce a tube through which a fill material may be moved at least in part into expandable medical implants. In some embodiments, an implant replaces one or more of vertebral bodies, portions of vertebral bodies, discs, and portions of discs of the spine. |
| US08672995B2 |
Polymer prosthesis
A polymer prosthesis with lumen and an axial length and having in a pre-delivery condition a plurality of relatively stiff stenting segments spaced from each other along the length of the prosthesis, the spaces between the relatively stiff stenting segments of a first polymer being bridged by relatively flexible linking segments of a second polymer, different from the first, the relatively stiff stenting segments and the relatively flexible linking segments being alternately arranged along the length of the prosthesis. |
| US08672993B2 |
Pararenal stent graft
A stent graft for endovascular introduction into the pararenal region of the descending aorta. The stent graft has an elongate tubular body (10) with a proximal portion (12), a distal portion (16) of a diameter less than the proximal portion and a tapered central portion (14). A notional transverse clock face on the tubular body has 12 o'clock at a notional anterior longitudinal datum line. The stent graft has a scalloped cut out (26) centered at about 12:30 o'clock and a fenestration (28) at about 12:00 o'clock in the proximal portion and first and second fenestration assemblies which can be low profile side arms at about 2:15 o'clock and about 10:00 o'clock in the tapered central portion. The tapered central portion can have an arcuate side wall (30) so that the tapered portion has an outer face which is concave. |
| US08672992B2 |
Stent and stent-graft having one or more conformance struts
A stent includes a main body having proximal and distal ends, and at least one conformance strut coupled to the proximal end of the main body. A portion of the at least one conformance strut extends proximal to a proximal end of a graft material in a compressed delivery configuration, and further is aligned inside the proximal end of the graft material in an expanded deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration, the proximal conformance strut may at least partially encircle the graft material just distal to the proximal end of the graft material, which may reduce the likelihood of infolding at the proximal edge of the graft material and potential endoleaks. |
| US08672987B2 |
Handpiece with optical unit of a skin phototreatment device
Handpiece formed of a shell with a handgrip connected to a bundle of electrical power supply cables and of heat transfer fluid tubes and a head, accommodating a cartridge fitted with the controlled light source and with a light guide fed from the light source and the outlet surface of which constitutes the surface via which the light signal is emitted towards the surface of the skin that is to be treated. It comprises a housing, made in the shell, arriving under the emission surface of the cartridge and equipped with guide means and clip-fastening members. An interchangeable optical unit carrying the light guide is fitted removably into the housing. This optical unit has a casing accepting the light guide and equipped with guiding and clip-fastening surfaces to collaborate with the guide means and the retractable clip-fastening members belonging to the housing. |
| US08672985B2 |
Bone fasteners and method for stabilizing vertebral bone facets using the bone fasteners
A bone fastener for stabilizing bone fragments includes a single or multiple components coupleable with one another and displaceable to a locked position of the bone fastener. |
| US08672984B2 |
Method and apparatus for retaining screw in a plate
A retention system for maintaining a screw to a vertebral plate is described herein. One or more screws extend through apertures within the vertebral plate. A cavity is positioned adjacent to and overlaps into the aperture. A ring is positioned within the cavity and held in position by a cap. The cap attaches to the plate to prevent removal of the ring. The ring is deflectable between a first shape to allow the screw to be inserted and removed from the aperture, and a second shape to prevent screw back-out from the aperture. |
| US08672982B2 |
Apparatus and methods for repairing craniomaxillofacial bones using customized bone plates
Bone plates and methods of using the bone plates for adjoining bone fragments are disclosed herein. A device for adjoining at least two bone fragments includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of at least one filling material and an inner lumen for passage of a light source; a conformable bone plate releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the conformable bone plate has a first surface, a second surface, a proximal end, and a distal end and at least one aperture extending from the first surface to the second surface for receiving a fastener; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light source and a delivery system housing the at least one filling material. |
| US08672981B2 |
Osteosynthesis plate comprising through-openings which are inclined in relation to the plane of the plate
An osteosynthesis plate is described, which is suitable for treating jaw fractures. The osteosynthesis plate has a plane of the plate as well as two plate sections 12, 14 with associated longitudinal axes 16, 18 extending substantially within the plane of the plate and inclined or staggered with respect to one another. Through openings 20, 22 inclined to the plane of the plate are formed in each of the two plate sections 12, 14. The angular alignments of the through openings 20, 22 within the plane of the plate differ with respect to a longitudinal axis 16 serving as reference line from one another by less than approximately 60°. In applications in the jaw region this slight deviation of the angular alignments permits an intraoral securement of the osteosynthesis plate. A transbuccal access through the cheek can thus be dispensed with. |
| US08672972B2 |
Low profile vertebral stabilzation systems and methods
Skeletal stabilization systems include a base, a longitudinal member, and a retaining member. The base includes an engagement surface with a surface area that is positionable in contact with a bone to atraumatically or traumatically engage the base to the bone. The retaining member engages the base to retain the longitudinal member relative to the base so that the longitudinal member can provide a desired stabilization effect to one or more adjacent bony portions. |
| US08672971B2 |
Chiropractic table apparatus and method of use
A chiropractic table has a base, a table support member connected to the base and extending upward from the base, an axial-lateral-tilt mechanism laterally connected to table support member, a cephalad section connected transversely to and being supported by the table support member above the base, a head section connected to and extending longitudinally from a first cephalad section end of the cephalad section, and a caudal section interconnected with the axial-lateral-tilt mechanism and the table support member and being positioned longitudinally adjacent a second cephalad section end of the cephalad section where the axial-lateral-tilt mechanism has an axial pivot mechanism configured to axially swing the caudal section along a predefined arc, the arc coinciding with a predefined radial distance from a pivot axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the chiropractic table and located a predefined distance above a top surface of the chiropractic table. |
| US08672969B2 |
Fracture fixation device
Assemblies for securing fractured bone are provided. The assembly includes a first fixation element, a second fixation element, and an adjustable flexible member construct. The first fixation element having a male or a female sleeve is secured within a first portion of the fractured bone. The second fixation element having the other of the male or female sleeve telescopically received within the one of the male or female sleeve is secured within a second portion of the fractured bone. The adjustable flexible member construct extends between the first and second fixation elements and has at least one adjustable loop coupled to the first fixation element and the second fixation element and a pair of adjusting ends extending through an opening in the first fixation element. The pair of adjusting ends can be pulled to reduce a diameter of the adjustable loop and to compress fragments of the fractured bone. |
| US08672966B2 |
High-strength suture
A surgical suture is made of an elongate, hollow braid of high strength fibers. The braid defines an elongate, longitudinally-extending, central chamber that is open and without any core material extending therein so that, when a surgeon's knot is tied with the suture, the cross-sectional shape of the braid collapses upon itself and is reduced in size in response to pressures experienced when the knot is tightened thereby producing a low profile knot that resists slippage. Preferably, the braid is of a size corresponding to a USP size 5-0 to USP size 7 suture and has one or more, preferably a pair, of color contrasting monofilaments woven therein to enhance suture visibility. Methods of making a flattened suture and of utilizing the high strength suture to maintain body tissues in an engaged position to promote healing are also provided. |
| US08672965B2 |
Nucleus replacement based on injectable PVA gels
The invention relates to novel polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gels which gelate in situ and are suitable for nucleus (gel bodies of the intervertebral disks) replacement, and to a process and to an apparatus for administration thereof, to the use thereof and to a vessel which comprises an inventive PVA gel. |
| US08672964B2 |
Puncture seals for closing hollow organs having a puncture opening
A puncture seal that seals a hollow organ having a puncture opening in a wall includes an inner bearing element that bears on an intraluminal side of the wall of the hollow organ, and a connection element connected to the inner bearing element and which, when the seal is fitted on the wall, protrudes through the puncture opening, wherein the inner bearing element has a surface area greater than the puncture opening, the inner bearing element is a continuous strip extending in an arc shape and strip sections lie substantially flat alongside one another in a fitted state, and the strip sections have a width that is smaller than the greatest length of the puncture opening, and the inner bearing element along the strip can be inserted into the hollow organ through the puncture opening and substantially parallel to the wall of the hollow organ. |
| US08672960B2 |
Method and apparatus for endoscopic ligament release
The invention pertains to a method, apparatus, and system for cutting anatomic members, such as ligaments, in surgical procedures such as carpal tunnel release, plantar fasciotomy, gastroc release, cubital tunnel release, and tarsal tunnel release. The apparatus includes a retrograde knife and a guide tool for guiding the knife and a scope during surgery. Relevant features include a knife stop for preventing the knife from inadvertently raising out of the knife channel, indicators showing the proper orientation for the guide tool, a self dilating tip and channel design on the guide tool, a cover piece and/or pivotable panel system for preventing ligaments and other anatomy from getting caught in the guide tool, a pivot pin and groove system for stabilizing the knife and also assuring that the knife blade is not inadvertently raised out of the channel, and a use indicator for preventing re-use of a single use device. |
| US08672958B2 |
Gastric bypass devices and procedures
Methods and devices for treating obesity are provided, and more particularly, methods and devices for performing gastric bypasses are disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment a gastric bypass procedure is provided that includes forming a gastro-entero anastomosis between a stomach and an intestine and forming an entero-entero anastomosis between a portion of the intestine distal to the gastro-entero anastomosis and a portion of the intestine proximal to the gastro-entero anastomosis. A surrogate path is formed between the esophagus and the gastro-entero anastomosis to at least partially direct fluid from the esophagus to the intestine by way of the gastro-entero anastomosis, thereby bypassing the stomach. Still further, methods for repairing an abdominal aortic aneurysm and leaking heart valve are also disclosed. |
| US08672956B2 |
Endoscopic suturing machine
An endoscopic suturing machine, having a housing with a housing upper part for receiving drives for the stitch-forming tools, a housing shaft adjoining the housing upper part for a receiving device for transmitting the motions generated by the drives to the stitch-forming tools, which have at least one needle bar guided in the housing shaft with a thread-carrying needle and a shuttle cooperating with same for forming stitches. The shuttle is received by a shuttle bar. The needle bar (5) is designed as a hollow body for receiving and guiding the thread. The thread guide elements are arranged between the thread spool 31 receiving the thread reserve and the needle bar (5) and are arranged in relation to the needle bar (5) such that the thread runs essentially in a straight line between the exit from the mounting device (17) and the entry into the needle bar (5). |
| US08672952B2 |
Close-wound coil and medical treatment tool using this coil
A medical treatment tool is provided having: a force transmission member having a distal end and a proximal end; an end effector which is provided on the distal end of the force transmission member in a non-rotatable manner with respect to the force transmission member; a control wire which is inserted into the force transmission member; and a rotatable coupling which is provided between the end effector and the control wire, and is coupled rotatably to the end effector with respect to the control wire. |
| US08672948B2 |
Vertebral spacer size indicator
A disposable measuring device for use in measuring the width, height and depth of an intradiscal space is provided, the device including an elongated body having an upper surface, a lower surface, a proximal end and a distal end. The elongated body also has a first pair of members configured for receiving a first cursor slidably arranged for measuring a width dimension, a second pair of members configured for receiving a second cursor slidably arranged for measuring a height dimension; and a detachable stop operatively connected to the first pair of members and the second pair of members, the detachable stop insertable into at least one opening located at the proximal end of the elongated body, the detachable stop configured for measuring a depth dimension. |
| US08672945B2 |
Device for positioning a bone cutting guide
A device for positioning a cutting guide with respect to a bone comprising a body forming the cutting guide or intended to be fixed to the cutting guide; a least two contact members intended to freely contact the bone; and adjustment means for individually varying the relative position of the body with respect to each contact member. |
| US08672942B2 |
Integrated system for cleaning bone and milling the cleaned bone to form bone chips
A system for cleaning bone that includes a base unit with a motor, a cleaning head (56) with a brush (58) and mill head with a mill element. Both the cleaning head and the mill head are designed to be coupled to the base unit. Both the brush and mill element have features that facilitate their coupling to the motor. When the cleaning head is attached to the base unit, a motor in the base unit rotates the brush to clean the bone. When the mill head is attached to the vase unit, the base unit motor actuates the mill element to convert the cleaned bone into bone chips. |
| US08672941B2 |
Coring device for preserving living tissue
Improved coring devices suitable for articular cartilage and bone, wherein the cutting device is capable of slicing through a tough protective tangential zone, delicately separating the shock absorbing columns of cells in the radial zone of the cartilage, and finally cutting into the hard underlying bone in a manner that preserves the viability of osteochondral cells. The coring device features an annulus having a flat annular cutting edge interrupted by at least one serration having neutral cutting angles. A method for concurrently removing cartilaginous and bony tissue using an improved coring device that preserves the viability of osteochondral cells. |
| US08672937B2 |
Cool-tip thermocouple including two-piece hub
A surgical device for performing a surgical procedure on a patient is provided and includes a handle assembly including a housing having a distal end and a proximal end; a tissue engaging member supported in and extending from the distal end of the housing of the handle assembly; at least one conduit having a first end operatively associated with the tissue engaging member and a second end extending from the housing of the handle assembly; and a strain relief member supported on the at least one conduit and connected to the housing, wherein the strain relief member and the housing are configured to enable poly-axial movement of the strain relief member with respect to the housing. |
| US08672935B2 |
Ultrasound treatment system
An ultrasound treatment system comprises an ultrasonic transducer, a handpiece, a probe, a sheath, a clamping member, an operation unit, an operating member, a suction base, and a perfusion base. The ultrasonic transducer generates ultrasonic vibrations. The handpiece has the ultrasonic transducer incorporated therein. The probe is connected to the ultrasonic transducer for transmitting ultrasonic vibrations to a distal member realizing a stationary portion that is a treatment portion for treating a living tissue. The sheath serves as a protecting member for shielding the probe. The clamping member is opposed to the distal member at the distal end of the sheath for clamping a living tissue in cooperation with the distal member. The operation unit is manipulated for clamping a living tissue with the clamping member and distal member or freeing the living tissue therefrom. |
| US08672933B2 |
Microwave antenna having a reactively-loaded loop configuration
A microwave ablation system is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a power source. A microwave antenna is adapted to connect to the power source via a coaxial cable feed including an inner conductor defining a portion of a radiating section of the microwave antenna, an outer conductor and dielectric shielding. The inner conductor loops back around and toward the outer conductor of the coaxial cable feed such that a distal end of the inner conductor is operably disposed adjacent the dielectric shielding. The inner conductor includes one or more reactive components disposed thereon forming a reactively-loaded loop configuration configured to maximize delivery of microwave energy from the power source to tissue such that a desired effect to tissue is achieved. |
| US08672932B2 |
Center fed dipole for use with tissue ablation systems, devices and methods
The present invention relates to systems and devices for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In particular, the present invention relates to systems and devices for the delivery of energy employing a center fed dipole component. In certain embodiments, methods are provided for treating a tissue region (e.g., a tumor) through application of energy with the systems and devices of the present invention. |
| US08672930B2 |
Endoluminal ablation cryoballoon and method
A method of ablating tissue is provided, including positioning an expandable element of a catheter in a blood vessel; inflating the expandable element with a volume of refrigerant to substantially occlude the blood vessel; measuring the volume of refrigerant used to inflate the expandable element; correlating the measured volume to an inflated dimension of the expandable element; defining at least one of a target pressure within the expandable element and a target flow rate for refrigerant delivery to the expandable element based at least in part on the inflated dimension; regulating refrigerant delivery to the expandable element to attain the at least one defined target pressure within the expandable element or defined target flow rate for fluid delivery to the expandable element; and ablating at least a portion of the blood vessel with the expandable element. |
| US08672929B2 |
Laser probe tip
A probe tip for communicating and laterally directing electromagnetic radiation comprises a waveguide, a primary capsule, a compressible member and a malleable secondary capsule. The waveguide is configured to communicate electromagnetic radiation and includes a beveled surface at a distal tip for redirecting electromagnetic radiation in a lateral direction. The primary capsule is attached over the distal tip of the waveguide. The compressible member covers a portion of the primary capsule. The malleable secondary capsule is positioned over the primary capsule and the compressible member, and includes a crimp that compresses the compressible member against the primary capsule and secures the secondary capsule to the primary capsule. |
| US08672927B2 |
Laser applicator
A laser applicator includes an optical fiber with a core surrounded by a cladding. The cladding contains openings (40) for coupling radiative energy outward. To accomplish an even distribution of energy, the size of the opening increases from the proximal end to the distal end. The openings (40) are combined into groups (45), with the number of openings within a group varying. The openings (40) are of a uniform size so that the area of decoupling (13) can be produced in a simple manner. |
| US08672925B2 |
Device, method, and control program for refractive surgery
An apparatus and a method for refractive surgery, in particular LASIK, make provision whereby the apex of the cornea is taken as a basis, as the ablation center, for the refractive procedure. For this purpose, the dependence of the position of the apex on properties of the pupil is determined in the case of the eye to be treated and, from this dependence, measured properties of the pupil are used to calculate the position of the ablation center during the refractive surgery. |
| US08672920B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for acute or chronic delivery of substances or apparatus to extravascular treatment sites
Methods and apparatus for delivery of substances or apparatus to target sites located outside blood vessel lumens. A penetrating catheter is inserted into a blood vessel lumen and a penetrator is advanced from the catheter in the direction of the target site. Thereafter, a delivery catheter is passed through a lumen of the penetrator to the target site. A desired substance or apparatus is then delivered to or obtained from the target site. In some applications, the delivery catheter may remain in place for chronic or continuous delivery of substance(s) to and/or obtaining of information or samples from the target site. Alternatively, a delivery catheter having an occlusion member may be advanced into a vein or venule and used to occlude the lumen of the vein or venule during and after injection of a substance such that the substance will not be carried away by normal venous blood flow. |
| US08672916B2 |
Absorbent garment having outer shell and adjustable absorbent assembly therein
An absorbent garment having a garment-like outer shell and an absorbent assembly adapted for adjustable positioning therein is disclosed. In particular embodiments, the absorbent garment includes garment shell, at least one inner attachment member, and an absorbent assembly. The inner attachment member can be disposed at a waist region of the garment shell. The absorbent assembly can include a fastening component disposed at an end region, the first fastening component adapted for refastenable engagement to the inner attachment member. The inner attachment member can be configured such that a user may adjust a position of the refastenable engagement to the inner attachment member. |
| US08672915B2 |
Wearing article
A wearing article having front and rear waist belt members that include waist elastic members attached thereto and spaced one from another in a longitudinal direction Y. On non-contractile regions, these elastic members do not overlap graphics on respective heat-sealable sheets or exert contractile force thereon. The non-contractile regions are formed by leaving between inner and outer sheets as well as between inner and outer sheets not coated with adhesive in respective middles of the front and rear waist belt members as viewed in a transverse direction X and cutting the waist elastic members attached under tension in the respective middles of the waist belt members. Along the ends of the non-contractile regions on the side of the crotch member, the inner and outer sheets as well as the inner and outer sheets are respectively joined to each other by means of heat sealing technique so as to form the joint zones. |
| US08672909B2 |
Faecal incontinence collector
The invention relates to an, for patients with faecal/urinary incontinence, auxiliary device in the form of a, on the skin around the anus, glued collection bag made of suitable and skin-friendly plastic that is foldable 180 degrees in the patient's front or back position.The design eliminates or substantially reduces the direct contact with faeces and thereby reduces the instances of possible contamination.The collection bag is equipped with channels for water rinsing 9, ointment application 10 and deodorising filters F.The collection bag can be used continuously for several days.The collection bag can easily be removed from the patient by means of the top 6 being made of light-sensitive adhesives.When the collection bag is removed, the bag can easily be sealed with the lid 8 and transported by means of the carrying handle 7. |
| US08672908B2 |
Convex barrier ring
A convex barrier ring, that includes a generally oval shaped body and tapered peripheral end portions, is provided. In use, the convex barrier ring is sealed against peristomal skin surfaces such that the tapered peripheral end portions are aligned with folds or creases in the skin surfaces to reduce leakage of stomal effluent. The convex barrier can also have an oval stoma-receiving aperture to provide an improved fit for oval or loop stomas. |
| US08672904B1 |
Splash shield systems
A medical system comprising apparatus and methods for improved irrigation and lavage in wound management. The device attaches to at least one irrigation fluid source and is configured to administer the fluid indirectly to a wound or tissue. |
| US08672899B2 |
Medication injector apparatus with drive assembly that facilitates reset
A medication injector apparatus such as an injection pen. The injection pen may include a doseable quantity identifier that uses a rotational matrix and a sensor for electrically sensing the arrangement of the dose setting mechanism of the the pen, which identifier may be part of a therapeutic dose indicating system that utilizes a cartridge recognizer to recognize a concentration of medication so as to allow an automatic determination of a therapeutic dose. |
| US08672895B2 |
Needle guard
A needle guard assembly having a resilient arm extending from a base situated to slide along the shaft of a needle. In one implementation the needle guard has an elongate containment member that rides with the resilient arm and is co-operable with the resilient arm to effectuate a covering of the entire distal tip of the needle upon the needle being retracted into the needle guard. |
| US08672889B2 |
Soft tissue tunneling device
A tissue tunneling device is configured to be delivered within the body. The tunneling device includes a shaft with a blunt distal end to prevent coring or other damage to tissue during the delivery of the tunneling device. In some arrangements, the shaft includes one or more lumen, through which medication or another fluid may be administered. An anesthetic or other pain relieving medication may be delivered through the lumen to lessen the discomfort of delivering the tunneling device to the desired anatomical site. The handle of the tunneling device can be adapted to receive a syringe or another type of fluid source. The shaft may also include a retractable needle for facilitating the advancement of the tunneling device through skin or other tissue. The shaft may also be provided with an outer sheath, which may be left within the anatomy after the tunneling device has been removed. The tunneling device can be configured to prevent or reduce relative rotation or other movement between the shaft and the sheath. The shaft may be malleable for custom-shaping the tunneling device prior to and/or during delivery. |
| US08672886B2 |
System for use during discography to wirelessly transmit data from hand-held fluid delivery device inside sterile field to device outside sterile field
A fluid delivery device is provided for delivering fluid to a target site such as an intervertebral disc during discography. The fluid delivery device includes pressure and volume sensors to determine the pressure and the volume of the fluid delivered to the intervertebral disc. The fluid delivery device is hand-held during use and includes a syringe assembly having a plunger with threads that enables controlled discharge of the fluid from the fluid delivery device by rotating the plunger in a housing of the fluid delivery device. The fluid delivery device includes a communication module to wirelessly transfer data to an external device outside of a sterile field, while the fluid delivery device is in the sterile field. The fluid delivery device may also include a physiological sensor to monitor involuntary pain responses based on changing physiological parameters such as increases in body temperature or blood pressure. |
| US08672882B2 |
Enteral feeding catheter device with an indicator
A balloon catheter device includes a catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and catheter walls defining a catheter lumen. An inflatable balloon is located at a distal end of the catheter and is inflated through an inflation valve located on a base. An internal cavity is defined in the base and is in fluid communication with the inflatable balloon. A translucent window is disposed over the internal cavity such that an interior volume of the cavity is externally viewable. Introduction of a colored fluid through the inflation valve to inflate the balloon results in the colored fluid also being present in the internal cavity, thereby providing an externally visual indication of the inflation state of the balloon. |
| US08672880B2 |
Remotely controlled catheter insertion system
A remotely controlled insertion system for a medical device is described. The system comprises a robotic device and a remote control mechanism. The robotic device has a handle controller to receive and hold the control handle or proximal end of a medical device. The medical device is capable of moving in up to six ranges of motion. In one embodiment a first motor is connected through a drive screw to a handle controller to move the medical device forward and backward. A second motor is connected to drive wheels effective to rotate the medical device clockwise and counter-clockwise. A third motor drives a series of gears that are connected to one or more control members on the medical device, this being effective to deflect a tip of the medical device so that movement of the third motor causes such deflection. A control unit is connected to all three motors. |
| US08672878B2 |
Buffering agent delivery system for anesthetic syringe
A syringe for dispensing anesthetic from a cartridge having an interior wall defining a hollow interior sized and shaped for receiving a dose of anesthetic, and a piston. The syringe includes a tubular plunger slidably received in the hollow interior of the tubular cartridge. The plunger has a hollow interior extending between a distal end shaped for engaging the piston and an open proximal end. The syringe includes a plunger rod slidably received in the hollow interior of the tubular plunger. The rod has a sharp distal end adapted to penetrate the piston, a proximal end, and a length extending between the distal end and the proximal end sized so a delivery portion of the rod extends through the piston into the cartridge when the rod is driven through the piston. The delivery portion includes a recess for receiving a buffering agent to reduce acidity of the dose of anesthetic. |
| US08672872B2 |
Sanitary product
A sanitary product for use by women for the absorption of menstrual fluid, having a plug and a pad joined by a sheath. The plug is substantially cylindrical so that is fits comfortably in a vaginal cavity. The pad remains outside the vaginal cavity, but has an absorbent layer on an inward side proximal to the plug and a liquid impermeable layer on an outward side. In use, a wearer can insert a finger into the sheath from the outward side of the pad to assist with insertion of the plug into the vaginal cavity. A string is provided that extends inside the sheath from the outward end of the plug to aid removal of the product. A line of weakness extends along the major axis of the pad, about which the pad is disposed to fold in use. |
| US08672871B2 |
Endovascular cerebrospinal fluid shunt
An implantable shunt device for draining cerebrospinal fluid from a patient's subarachnoid space includes a shunt having opposed first and second ends and a one-way valve located at the first end of the shunt. A hollow passageway extends between the tip and one-way valve such that fluid can be drained through the tip and out through the valve. The endovascular cerebrospinal fluid shunt of the present invention can be placed into a patient percutaneously via a catheter inserted into the venous system of the body through a needle hole, without the need for open surgery. The device allows for more physiologic drainage of cerebrospinal fluid since the device shunts cerebrospinal fluid into the same cerebral venous system that occurs naturally in normal people. |
| US08672870B2 |
Ocular implant with hydrogel expansion capabilities
An ocular implant includes an elongate member having an internal lumen forming a flow pathway that provides a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal space of the eye. The implant includes a hydrogel member attached to the elongate member, wherein the hydrogel member is adapted to expand upon implantation of the elongate member in the eye. An attachment attaches the hydrogel member to the elongate member. |
| US08672869B2 |
Kit, system and method of treating myeloma patients
Circulating free lambda and kappa free light chains in blood play a role in the pathogenesis of acute renal failure due to myeloma. Coupled plasma filtration and adsorption allows separation of plasma from blood and treatment of the plasma through a cartridge containing a sorbent or resin material, such as hydrophobic divinylbenzene styrenic resins having an average bead diameter of 75 microns, an average pore diameter of 30 nm, and a surface area of 700 m2/g. Lambda and kappa free light chain concentrations progressively decrease during coupled plasma filtration and adsorption treatment resulting in significant reductions by the end of the treatment. |
| US08672862B2 |
Apparatus for identifying femoral head center
An apparatus for identifying, during total knee replacement surgery, a position of a center of a femoral head of a patient within a plane parallel to a frontal plane, comprises a marking plate placed to cover, in a direction perpendicular to the frontal plane, a site where the femoral head center of the patient's body is located; a pivotal arm having a pivotal shaft arranged to extend in a direction perpendicular to the frontal plane; and a marker attached to the pivotal arm, for depicting a circular arc on the marking plate according to rotation of the pivotal arm; the pivotal shaft being placed at a distal end of a femur of the patient, a distance from the pivotal shaft to the marker in a direction parallel to the frontal plane being equal to a preliminarily measured distance from the distal end of the femur to the femoral head center. |
| US08672859B2 |
Biopsy forceps assemblies
Embodiments of the invention include devices for obtaining tissue including a proximal actuator and a distal assembly having first and second end effectors. The first and second end effectors include the features of at least one element within the inner surface either of the first and second end effectors for aiding in the capture and retention of a targeted tissue sample. |
| US08672856B2 |
System and method for automated diagnosis of myocardial ischemia through remote monitoring
A system and method for automated diagnosis of myocardial ischemia through remote monitoring is described. Physiological measures comprising data either recorded on a regular basis by a medical device or derived therefrom is stored. Qualitative measures associated with the physiological measures are matched. Indications of myocardial ischemia are remotely identified. The qualitative measures for both of a reduction in exercise capacity and respiratory distress occurring contemporaneously are examined. The qualitative measures for angina that accompanies the reduction in exercise capacity and the respiratory distress are evaluated. A time course for each of the indications is determined. A patient status is formed comprising an onset of myocardial ischemia conditioned on the time course comprising a short duration. |
| US08672855B2 |
Methods and systems that monitor for an impending myocardial infarction
Implantable systems, and methods for use therewith, are provided for monitoring for an impending myocardial infarction. A signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume is obtained. Such a signal can be a photoplethysmography signal or an impedance plethysmography signal. For each of a plurality of periods of time, a metric indicative of the areas under the curve of the signal or number of inflections in the signal is determined. An impending myocardial infarction is monitored for based on changes in the metric indicative of the area under the curve of the signal or number of inflections in the signal, and an alert and/or therapy is triggered in response to an impending myocardial infarction being predicted. |
| US08672852B2 |
Apparatus and method for beneficial modification of biorhythmic activity
Apparatus is provided, including a sensor, adapted to generate a sensor signal indicative of biorhythmic activity of a user of the apparatus, the sensor signal having a first characteristic, indicative of a voluntary action of the user, and a second characteristic, indicative of a benefit-related variable of the user. The apparatus also includes a control unit, adapted to receive the sensor signal, and, responsive to the second characteristic, generate an output signal which directs the user to modify a parameter of the voluntary action indicated by the first characteristic. |
| US08672846B2 |
Continuous transmit focusing method and apparatus for ultrasound imaging system
In one embodiment, an ultrasound imaging method comprises: providing a probe that includes one or more transducer elements for transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves; generating a sequence of spatially distinct transmit beams which differ in one or more of origin and angle; determining a transmit beam spacing substantially based upon a combination of actual and desired transmit beam characteristics, thereby achieving a faster echo acquisition rate compared to a transmit beam spacing based upon round-trip transmit-receive beam sampling requirements; storing coherent receive echo data, from two or more transmit beams of the spatially distinct transmit beams; combining coherent receive echo data from at least two or more transmit beams to achieve a substantially spatially invariant synthesized transmit focus at each echo location; and combining coherent receive echo data from each transmit firing to achieve dynamic receive focusing at each echo location. |
| US08672845B2 |
Systems and methods for processing analyte sensor data
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for processing sensor data, including calculating a rate of change of sensor data and/or determining an acceptability of sensor or reference data. |
| US08672842B2 |
Smart mattress
A mattress has a sensor pad affixed on a top surface thereof. The sensor pad has (i) a matrix array of plural pressure sensors, (ii) plural row conductors, and (iii) plural column conductors. Each intersecting row and column conductor provides an electrical signal from a corresponding sensor when pressure is applied thereto. The sensor pad has plural through-holes therein disposed between the plural row conductors the plural column conductors, respectively. Preferably, at least one patient-mounted physiological sensor is configured to provide an output signal corresponding to a patient physiological parameter. An electronic unit is mounted inside the mattress and is configured to receive signals from the sensor pad. The electronic unit has a data storage unit preferably storing (i) patient identification information, (ii) patient physiological information, and (iii) mattress information. A wireless transmitter is coupled to the electronic unit and is configured to wirelessly communicate at least the stored patient physiological information to an off-mattress device. |
| US08672840B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. |
| US08672838B2 |
Image capture unit in a surgical instrument
In a minimally invasive surgical system, an image capture unit includes a prism assembly and sensor assembly. The prism assembly includes a beam splitter, while the sensor assembly includes coplanar image capture sensors. Each of the coplanar image capture sensors has a common front end optical structure, e.g., the optical structure distal to the image capture unit is the same for each of the sensors. A controller enhances images acquired by the coplanar image capture sensors. The enhanced images may include (a) visible images with enhanced feature definition, in which a particular feature in the scene is emphasized to the operator of minimally invasive surgical system; (b) images having increased image apparent resolution; (c) images having increased dynamic range; (d) images displayed in a way based on a pixel color component vector having three or more color components; and (e) images having extended depth of field. |
| US08672836B2 |
Method and apparatus for continuous guidance of endoscopy
Methods and apparatus provide continuous guidance of endoscopy during a live procedure. A data-set based on 3D image data is pre-computed including reference information representative of a predefined route through a body organ to a final destination. A plurality of live real endoscopic (RE) images are displayed as an operator maneuvers an endoscope within the body organ. A registration and tracking algorithm registers the data-set to one or more of the RE images and continuously maintains the registration as the endoscope is locally maneuvered. Additional information related to the final destination is then presented enabling the endoscope operator to decide on a final maneuver for the procedure. The reference information may include 3D organ surfaces, 3D routes through an organ system, or 3D regions of interest (ROIs), as well as a virtual endoscopic (VE) image generated from the precomputed data-set. The preferred method includes the step of superimposing one or both of the 3D routes and ROIs on one or both of the RE and VE images. The 3D organ surfaces and routes may correspond to the surfaces and paths of a tracheobronchial airway tree extracted, for example, from 3D MDCT images of the chest. |
| US08672832B2 |
Massage device having serial vibrators
A mechanized dildo having a body with a plurality of vibrator assemblies, each vibrator assembly comprising a motor and a housing; a processor electrically coupled to each of the plurality of vibrator assemblies; a battery electrically coupled to the processor; at least one mode control switch electrically coupled to the processor; a phallic sleeve comprising an elastic material covers the plurality of vibrator assemblies; and a housing containing the processor, the battery and the at least one control switch; wherein the processor is configured to operate separate vibrator assemblies in different combination modes, such modes being selected using the at least one mode control switch. |
| US08672831B2 |
Bariatric device and method
A bariatric device and method of causing at least partial satiety includes a body having a wall defining a lumen. The wall is configured to generally conform to the shape and size of i) the abdominal portion of the esophagus and/or ii) the proximal cardiac portion of the stomach. The wall is adapted to exert a force on the i) abdominal portion of the esophagus and/or ii) the proximal cardiac portion of the stomach thereby influencing a neurohormonal feedback mechanism to cause at least partial satiety by augmenting fullness caused by food and simulating fullness in the absence of food. A fixation system is included to resist distal migration of the body. The fixation system includes at least a portion of the wall having a tissue ingrowth characteristic to promote ingrowth of tissue in the wall. |
| US08672829B2 |
Methods and articles for treatment of rectal prolapse
Improved methods and devices for treatment of rectal prolapse are provided. A suturing console for suturing the rectal fascia at, to, or about the sacral vertebral fascia is disclosed. A method of repairing prolapsed rectum via a vaginal incision or perineal incision is also disclosed. |
| US08672827B2 |
Cardiac device and methods of use thereof
Devices and methods are described herein which are directed to the treatment of a patient's heart having, or one which is susceptible to heart failure, to improve diastolic function. |
| US08672823B2 |
Napkin folding device
A napkin folding device is provided having a folding unit provided for folding individual napkins, a storage unit provided for holding the folded napkins from the folding unit, a delivery unit provided for holding out unfolded napkins, and a transport unit provided for feeding the unfolded napkins from the delivery unit to the folding unit. The delivery unit has a magazine including at least two delivery levels. |
| US08672821B1 |
Paint roller cleaner and associated method
A combined paint roller and paint roller cleaner quickly and efficiently removes paint from the paint roller cleaner while preventing fluids from splashing outwardly and away from the paint roller cleaner. The paint roller cleaner includes a main chamber having a first slot formed at an outer surface thereof, and an auxiliary chamber statically coupled to the main chamber. Such an auxiliary chamber protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the main chamber and preferably has an outer surface provided with a second slot formed therein. Notably, the second slot may be offset from the first slot in such a manner that an external fluid stream, after passing through the first and second slots, is caused to enter the main chamber at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the outer surface of the main chamber and thereby rotate a portion of the paint roller located within the paint roller cleaner. |
| US08672818B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving posture
An apparatus for improving posture comprises a bar element and a pad element centered along the length of the bar element. The bar element is constructed from a weighty material so as to provide a significant and constant downwardly directed weight. The pad element is constructed from a relatively lightweight material as compared to the bar material, but has a very specific cervical curve-accommodating, outer pad diameter or outer pad radius of curvature. The outer pad diameter or outer pad radius of curvature substantially matches that of a normal cervical curve. Together, the radius of curvature of the pad element and the weight of the bar element provide the user with a weighted template against which the user may align the cervical portion of his or her spine and commence resistance muscle training against the downwardly directed weight for improving core muscle groups for improving and/or maintaining one's posture. |
| US08672816B2 |
Dumbbells and barbells with improved attachments
A weight lifting system includes a handle bar and two weight plates. The handle bar is made of a first material and is attached to the two weight plates by inserting each of two ends of the handle bar in a hole in each of the two weight plates, wherein at least one of the two weight plates comprises a center portion made of a second material and a peripheral portion made of a third material, wherein the third material is different from both the first material and the second material, wherein the center portion comprises the hole, in which one of the two ends of the handle bar is inserted, and the center portion is welded to the handle bar. |
| US08672811B2 |
Power generating device connected with exerciser
A power generating device includes a power generating unit and a frame, wherein the power generating unit is connected to the frame by two outer casings with two respective arms. The power generating unit has an input shaft and a roller is mounted to the input shaft. The frame is connected to the exerciser and a shock-absorbing member is located beneath the frame. Two resilient members are connected to two ends of the frame and two ends of each resilient member are respectively connected to the frame and the power generating unit so as to urge the roller to contact against the energy transferring end. The shock-absorbing member absorbs vibration from the power generating unit. The users operate the exerciser and generate electric power. |
| US08672810B2 |
Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods in a team sports environment
Systems and methods for sensing and monitoring various athletic performance metrics, e.g., during the course of a game, a practice, a training session, training drills, and the like, are described. These systems and methods can provide useful metrics for players and coaches relating to athletic performances in various sports, including various team sports. |
| US08672808B2 |
Brake control system
Provided is a brake control apparatus for a vehicle which detects an amount of brake-pedal operation by means of an electric signal, and then calculates a braking force demanded by a driver from the electric signal, and thereby generates the demanded braking force. A control mode for a braking force is switched from a normal control mode to a stationary-vehicle control mode, if a determination that the vehicle is in a stationary state is followed by another determination that an electric signal corresponding to an actual braking force exceeds a command value for a stationary-vehicle braking force while the vehicle is in the stationary state. The control mode for a braking force is switched from the stationary-vehicle control mode to the normal control mode, if it is determined that the demanded braking force becomes smaller than the command value for the stationary-vehicle braking force. In addition, in the stationary-vehicle control mode, a braking force generated by a means for braking is equal to the command value for the stationary-vehicle braking force, whereas, in the normal control mode, the braking force generated by the means for braking is equal to the braking force demanded by the driver. |
| US08672807B2 |
Speed-changing device
A speed-changing device includes a motor, a reduction gear train that reduces a rotation speed of the motor in accordance with a speed reduction ratio and transmits the rotation at the reduced speed, and a speed reduction ratio switching unit that switches the speed reduction ratio. The speed reduction ratio switching unit includes an actuator that switches the speed reduction ratio, a controller that controls the actuator, and a drive state detector that detects an index value representing load torque applied to the motor. The controller activates the actuator when the index value exceeds a first threshold value and activates the actuator when the index value fluctuates between the first threshold and a second threshold thereby forming an undulated pattern that satisfies a predetermined condition. |
| US08672806B2 |
Method for determining a starting speed in a motor vehicle
A method for determining a startup gear in a motor vehicle for starting from standstill while maintaining a load limit of the clutch in a the drive train which comprises a drive engine built as an internal combustion engine, a friction clutch, and an automatic stepped transmission. To avoid overloading the clutch, the method determines a load-independent startup gear with which startup would occur under the present starting conditions without considering the current load state of the clutch and without complying with a load limit of the clutch. A load-specific startup gear is determined as the highest startup gear, with which during a startup under the present starting conditions, a predefined load limit of the clutch would be maintained with consideration given to the present load state of the clutch. The startup gear is the lowest of the load-independent startup gear and the at least one load-specific startup gear. |
| US08672805B2 |
Vehicle control apparatus and vehicle control method
A hybrid electric vehicle has a first mode in which slippage of a clutch between an electric motor and a driving wheel is allowed and controlled by rotational speed control of the electric motor and a second mode in which the slippage of the clutch is allowed and controlled by rotational speed control of an engine. When the vehicle is stationary in the first mode, a controller reduces a control setpoint of hydraulic pressure of the clutch from an initial point. The controller identifies a reference point of the control setpoint with which actual output torque of the electric motor becomes unchanged with respect to the reduction of the control setpoint. Then, the controller increases the control setpoint from the reference point at a higher gradient and then a lower gradient, and then sets the control setpoint to a corrected point below the initial point and above the reference point. |
| US08672784B2 |
Sport ball with an inflation-retention bladder
A sport ball may include a casing, a bladder, and a valve. The casing forms at least a portion of an exterior surface of the ball. The bladder is located within the casing for enclosing a pressurized fluid, and the bladder may be formed from a material that includes a first layer of thermoplastic polymer material and a second layer of a barrier material. The valve is for introducing the fluid to the bladder, and the valve is secured to the bladder and accessible from an exterior of the casing. A tie layer may be located between the flange and a surface of the bladder to join the flange to the bladder. |
| US08672780B2 |
Batting tee with pivot connection
A batting tee with two spaced apart support arms extending upwardly from the base plate, two spaced apart retaining members extending between the support arms and connected thereto or to the base plate, and a pivot extending between the support arms at a location intermediate that of the two retaining members. The shaft's bottom end is received between the two support arms and between the two retaining members and is connected adjacent the bottom end to the two support arms by the pivot extending therethrough. The pivot defining a single pivot axis about which the shaft is pivotable relative to the base plate between a first position in contact with only one of the retaining members and a second position in contact with only the other of the retaining members, for impact energy absorption. |
| US08672778B2 |
Golf ball
Golf ball 2 has a land and numerous dimples 8 on the surface thereof. This dimple 8 has first curved face 14 and second curved face 16. The first curved face 14 is continuous with land 10 at the edge Ed. The second curved face 16 is continuous with the first curved face 14 at the boundary point Pb. The first curved face 14 has ring-shape. The first curved face 14 is projecting upwards. The second curved face 16 has a bowl-shape. The second curved face 16 is projecting downwards. The second curved face 16 has a curvature radius R2 of equal to or greater than 10 mm. The proportion P1 of the depth d1 of the boundary point Pb to the depth de of the dimple 8 is 1% or greater and 10% or less. The mean diameter of the dimple 8 is equal to or greater than 4.0 mm. The proportion P3 of the number of the dimples 8 having a diameter of equal to or greater than 4.3 mm to total number of the dimples 8 is equal to or greater than 30%. |
| US08672777B2 |
Golf ball core with soft outer transition volume and negative hardness gradient
A golf ball including a unitary core having a volume, an outer surface, a geometric center, and an outermost transition volume adjacent to the outer surface, the core being formed from a substantially homogenous composition; and a cover layer including ionomer, metallocene-catalyzed polymer, polyester, polyamide, non-ionomeric thermoplastic elastomer, copolyether-ester, copolyether-amide, polycarbonate, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, or polystyrene block copolymer. The outermost transition volume is disposed between the core outer surface and the geometric center, the transition volume has an outer portion congruent with the core outer surface, and comprises the outermost 45% of the core volume or less. Both a hardness of the core outer surface and a hardness within the outermost transition volume are less than the hardness of the geometric center to define a negative hardness gradient. |
| US08672775B2 |
Multi-piece solid golf ball
The invention provides a multi-piece solid golf ball composed of a solid core, a cover, at least one intermediate layer situated therebetween, and a plurality of dimples on a surface of the ball. The diameter of the solid core, the deflection of the core when compressed under a final load of 130 kgf from an initial load of 10 kgf, the hardness at the center of the core, the hardness in a region 5 mm to 10 mm from the center of the core, the hardness 15 mm from the center of the core, and the surface hardness are set within specific ranges. The intermediate layer is composed primarily of a material obtained by mixing under applied heat a specific resin composition and the cover is formed primarily of polyurethane. And, the number of dimples and the trajectory volume TVT are set within specific ranges. The golf ball of the invention has an excellent flight performance, feel, controllability and scuff resistance. |
| US08672773B2 |
Iron-type golf club head or other ball striking device
A ball striking device, such as an iron-type golf club, includes a head that has a face having a ball striking surface defined thereon and an arched top edge, an iron-type golf club body connected to the face, and a hosel connected to the body. The arched top edge of the face includes a crest portion, a first upwardly sloping portion extending from a toe edge of the face to the crest portion, and a second upwardly sloping portion extending from the hosel to the crest portion, such that the distance from the bottom edge of the face to the top edge of the face is greatest at the crest portion. The hosel has a first end connected to the body and a second end located below the crest portion of the face. |
| US08672771B1 |
Right or left handed putter with negative loft
A golf putter having a head with a negative loft angle on the two ball striking surfaces, heel, and toe surfaces. The overall weight of the putter may be adjusted and the center of gravity of the putter may be shifted laterally as desired with removable weights that are coupled to the putter head. |
| US08672766B1 |
Rol-lee gaming cabinet
A compact gaming cabinet that efficiently allows both mechanical reels and LCD flat screen video to operate in tight areas with a unique, high security door design which offers additional protection against tampering while maintaining easy internal cabinet access for improved maintenance and serviceability. Additionally, extra “creature” conveniences are integrated into the cabinet to enhance player comfort. |
| US08672765B2 |
System and method for capturing and sharing console gaming data
A system and method for capturing and sharing console gaming data is described. Embodiments capture gameplay data directly at the gaming console, without the need for external hardware. This allows users to easily capture rich console gaming experiences and share them across a variety of outlets. In one embodiment, the methods described herein can be implemented with a patch or driver on the operating system of the user device, rendering it unnecessary to heavily modify the source code of the game. |
| US08672763B2 |
Controller for interfacing with a computing program using position, orientation, or motion
Methods and systems for interfacing a controller device with an interactive program executing at a computer are presented. A controller includes a camera for capturing images of a display. The position of the controller is determined based on the perspective distortion, size, location and orientation of the display in the captured images. The controller may additionally include an IR projector and an IR camera. The IR projector generates an IR beam, which creates a projection on a surface. The IR camera captures IR images of the projection. The distance of the controller from the surface and its relative orientation are determined based on analysis of the IR images. |
| US08672762B1 |
Gaming system and method providing a selection game associated with selectable visually unblocked objects and unselectable visually blocked objects
In various embodiments, the gaming system of the present disclosure is configured to operate a card game associated with a plurality of cards. For a play of the card game, the gaming system receives a wager from a player, determines a plurality of player cards from the plurality of cards, displays the player cards face up, determines a plurality of dealer cards from the plurality of cards, and displays at least one of the dealer cards face up. The gaming system determines an outcome of the play by comparing the player and the dealer cards. If the outcome is a designated outcome, the gaming system adds the received wager to a side pot. If a side pot reset condition is met, the gaming system resets the side pot to an initial value. If a side pot payout condition is met, the gaming system provides the side pot to the player. |
| US08672757B2 |
Gaming device with attached audio-capable chair
A gaming system includes a chair communicably coupled to a gaming device. The chair includes an audio playback device operable to receive audio playback commands. The audio playback commands may be received from a gaming device physically attached to the chair, a remote gaming device, or from a network interface communicably coupling the chair to a gaming establishment audio system, a player tracking system, or other gaming establishment system. Additionally, the chair may include an audio data storage device. Audio data from the storage device may be played through speakers on the chair, audio output devices on a gaming device, or audio output devices on a peripheral attached to the gaming device such as a top box or signage peripheral. |
| US08672752B2 |
Interface for wagering game environments
This document describes inter alia a method for presenting an interface on a wagering game machine, where the interface includes a plurality of wagering game icons, and where each of the wagering game icons indicates a wagering game that is available on the wagering game machine. The method can include presenting wagering game icons in an interface, wherein the wagering game icons form a row, and wherein each wagering game icon occupies a position in the row, and detecting a sweeping screen touch on a touch screen. The method can also include shifting, based on the sweeping screen touch, the wagering game icons to different positions in the row, where the shifting causes a wagering game icon at an end position in the row to disappear from the interface, and where the shifting also causes a new wagering game icon to appear at another end position in the row. |
| US08672751B2 |
System and method for providing enhanced services to a user of a gaming application
A system for providing enhanced services to users of a gaming application comprises a server and a platform remotely coupled to the server. The server executes a gaming application. The platform receives a request for enhanced services, and establishes an enhanced services session with a user of the gaming application in response to the request for enhanced services. The enhanced services session corresponds in time at least in part with the execution of the gaming application. The platform further provides enhanced services to the user of the gaming application during the enhanced services session. |
| US08672746B2 |
Horse-racing simulation wagering game
Systems and methods for providing a wagering game which involve providing a plurality of game pieces, intermediate game events, and intermediate game event modifiers for each of the game pieces, wherein each intermediate game event modifier is associated with a distinct intermediate game event; receiving one or more wagers relating to a final game outcome; randomly generating a value for each of the distinct intermediate game events; determining an intermediate game event result for each game piece, wherein the intermediate game event result includes the randomly generated value as modified by the intermediate game event modifier for the distinct intermediate game event; determining a final game outcome for each game piece, wherein the final game outcome is the total of each of the distinct intermediate game event results; and resolving the one or more wagers received based on the final game outcome. |
| US08672744B1 |
Adjustable wagering game system social interactivity configuration
A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In some embodiments, the operations can include determining, at a wagering game server, player account information associated with a plurality of players that are logged in at one or more predefined wagering game machines. The operations can also include determining a level of social interactivity to provide during game play to the plurality of players based, at least in part, on the player account information associated with the plurality of players. The operations can further include determining that a current level of social interactivity being provided during game play to the plurality of players is different than the level of social interactivity associated with the player account information, and dynamically changing a configuration of the one or more predefined wagering game machines to provide to the plurality of players the level of social interactivity associated with the player account information. |
| US08672738B2 |
Lottery game having enhanced winnings
A multi-matrix lottery game allowing cross-matching between two sets of player indicia against two sets of game indicia drawn by a lottery authority is provided. A player selects one set of indicia from a first set of indicia matrix and another set of indicia from a second set of indicia matrix. The lottery authority determines an winning result by making similar selection from two sets of indicia matrices. The player's prize is determined by matching between indicia from the corresponding sets. The player is entitled to an enhanced prize if there is cross-matching between the player indicia from the first set and the winning indicia from the second set or between the player indicia of the second set and the winning indicia from the first set. |
| US08672736B1 |
Gaming system and method providing a Pai Gow draw poker game
Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a gaming system and method providing a Pai Gow draw poker game. For a play of a card game, the gaming system provides a player set of cards to a player and a dealer set of cards to a dealer. The gaming system enables the player and the dealer to each discard a card from their respective sets of cards. If the player discards a card from the player set, the gaming system adds a draw card to the player set. If the dealer discards a card from the dealer set, the gaming system adds a draw card to the dealer set. The gaming system then enables the player and the dealer to each form two hands using their respective sets of cards, and determines any awards based on a comparison of the player and dealer hands. |
| US08672731B2 |
Method for processing meat
A system and method is shown for processing animals, such as calves, from birth to slaughter by utilizing hot-fed rations during the feeding process. The system and method reduces or eliminates the need to use hormones and simultaneously reduces or eliminates the need to sterilize the meat products. Each calf or animal is weaned at a weaning station, fed at a feeding station, slaughtered at a slaughter station to provide a carcass that is substantially the same size as other carcasses for the same breed of animal processed in the system. The consistent carcass size enables manufacture of consistent carcasses which, in turn, facilitates providing substantially the same size meat cuts. This feature enables use of a standard-size packaging, such as a case-ready package, which may be shipped for display and purchase at a store. |
| US08672726B2 |
Methods of completing a remotely controlled model vehicle system with a separate controller
Methods of establishing a fully operable remotely controlled model vehicle system for a model vehicle. The method includes the steps of transferring a model vehicle, including a receiver for receiving a control signal from a remote control signal source to control operation of the model vehicle, the transfer being from a first party to a second party, and the transfer taking place without the remote control signal source, and the second party providing the remote control signal source following transfer of the model vehicle to the second party to complete the fully operable remotely controlled model vehicle system. The transfer from the first party to the second party may be a sale of the model vehicle with the receiver, but without the remote control signal source. |
| US08672725B1 |
Photographic camouflaged scent-free game calls and method of manufacturing same
A scent-free game call mouthpiece section, with a photographic camouflaged or photographic decorative image displayed thereon, in a manner such that paint fragments and VOCs from the camouflaged or decorative image are restrained from contacting the mouth of the game call user, or otherwise being released into the atmosphere around the game call. |
| US08672719B2 |
Aquatic sport board
An aquatic sport board includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion is coupled to the top portion by a first side portion and a second side potion. The first portion and the second portion taper inward towards a front portion and a rear portion of the top and bottom portions. Recessed areas are situated on the top portion and extend inward towards the bottom portion. A plurality of sections is situated between the top portion and the bottom portion. Each section in the plurality of sections is sealed off from one another. |
| US08672716B2 |
Adjustable clamping device
An adjustable clamping device includes a wedge pad and a conductor pad. The wedge pad has a first fastener hole and a wedge receiving surface. The conductor pad has a second fastener hole and a conductor receiving surface. The conductor receiving surface faces the wedge receiving surface to receive a wedge and a conductor therebetween. A fastener is received by the first and second fastener holes to adjustably connect the wedge pad to the conductor pad. A spring member is disposed on the fastener, abuts the wedge pad and biases the wedge pad toward the conductor pad to facilitate retaining the wedge and conductor between the wedge receiving surface and the conductor receiving surface. The spring member allows spacing between the wedge pad and conductor pad to be adjusted to accommodate various sized wedges and conductors while maintaining pressure on the received wedge and conductor. |
| US08672715B2 |
Electrical contact with two contating portions and electrical connector with the same
An electrical connector including: an insulative housing and a plurality of contacts, the insulative housing defining a first mating face, a second mating face and a mounting face opposite to the mating faces, each contact includes a retaining portion for engaging on the insulative housing and a pair of contact portions exposed on the first mating face and the second mating face respectively, wherein the first mating face is higher than the second face in a direction perpendicular to the mating first and second faces. |
| US08672714B2 |
HDMI audio-video signal switching device
An HDMI audio-video signal switching device comprises two housing bodies and a conductively connecting circuit board. Each of the housing bodies has an assembling end and a plugged end. The conductively connecting circuit board is a circuit board formed, at each end thereof corresponding to a positioning slot of each housing body, with a plugging projection sheet. Each plugging projection sheet has conductively connecting terminals. A portion of the conductively connecting circuit board between the two plugging projection sheets is set in the positioning slot, such that each plugging projection sheet and conductively connecting terminals thereon are allowed to pass through the positioning slot and then extend into a plugged hole, as well as the assembling ends of the two housing bodies are allowed to be butted and assembled together. Thereby, a more simplified structure is introduced for the HDMI audio-video signal switching device. |
| US08672712B2 |
Shield and circuit board module having the same
A shield is made of a conductive material and used to cover a connector fixed to a circuit board. The shield includes a shield body, a contact portion and a lock portion. The shield body covers an outside of the connector. The contact portion projects from the shield body toward inside of the shield body to contact a ground terminal of the connector. The contact portion is elastically deformable and applies a pressing force toward the connector. The lock portion projects from the shield body toward outside of the shield body. The lock portion is brought into contact with the connector by a reaction force exerted to the shield body due to the pressing force, thereby to restrict the shield body from being moved relative to the connector due to the reaction force. |
| US08672711B2 |
Connector including a shield case and a contact at least a part of the contact adjacent to a part of the shield case
The invention provides a connector including a body having insulating properties, a conductive shield case surrounding the body, and a first terminal group arrayed in a line in the body. The first terminal group includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The second terminal is disposed adjacent to the first terminal and having a higher impedance than the first terminal. The shield case includes an adjacent portion that is adjacent to at least a portion of the second terminal and on an opposite side to the first terminal. At least one of the portion of the second terminal and the adjacent portion of the shield case is extended in width so as to shorten a distance between the portion of the second terminal and the adjacent portion of the shield case in accordance with an impedance difference between the first terminal and the second terminal. |
| US08672709B2 |
High density jack
The present disclosure provides for electrical connectors or jack assemblies/housings for use in voice/data communication systems. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member. The present disclosure provides for improved systems/designs for jack assemblies/housings that are easily secured and/or unsecured to or from a jack panel or jack faceplate. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for convenient, low-cost and effective systems and methods for easily securing and/or unsecuring jack assemblies/housings to or from a jack panel/faceplate (e.g., in the field) by utilizing advantageous modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member, and related assemblies. |
| US08672708B2 |
Connector assembly having a floatable module assembly with a coupling member
A connector assembly including a support frame and a module assembly that is movably coupled to the support frame. The module assembly includes first and second connector modules that are positioned adjacent to each other and a coupling member that joins the first and second connector modules. Each of the first and second connector modules is configured to mate with a mating connector along a corresponding mating axis to establish a communicative connection. The coupling member joins the first and second connector modules such that the first and second connector modules move with each other and relative to the support frame. The coupling member permits the first and second connector modules to move relative to each other when the mating connectors engage the first and second connector modules. |
| US08672707B2 |
Connector assembly configured to align communication connectors during a mating operation
A connector assembly including an assembly housing having a leading end, a back end, and an interior cavity extending therebetween. The interior cavity opens to the leading end. The connector assembly also includes a communication connector that is disposed in the interior cavity proximate to the leading end and movably held therein. The connector assembly also includes a board connector located a distance away from the communication connector. The connector assembly also includes a flexible cable assembly that has communication cables extending between and communicatively coupling the board connector and the communication connector. The communication connector is configured to engage a mating connector when the communication connector and the mating connector are mated along a mating axis. The communication connector and the cables are permitted to float relative to the assembly housing when the communication connector mates with the mating connector. |
| US08672703B2 |
Spring terminal, in particular a front terminal
An electrical connector for connecting the bare end of an insulated conductor with a circuit on a printed circuit board, including a horizontal printed circuit board having an electrical circuit thereon, an electrically conductive contact arrangement mounted on, and electrically connected with the circuit of, the printed circuit board, the contact arrangement including at least two spaced resilient contacts having adjacent end portions that are biased together, a housing formed from electrically insulating material and containing a conductor opening for receiving the conductor bare end; and a positioning arrangement operable by an actuating tool for positioning the conductor bare end in a clamped position between the contact end portions. When the contact arrangement is in the form of a pair of leaf spring contacts connected in a V-shaped manner, an adjusting device is provided for adjusting the space between the adjacent ends of the contacts. |
| US08672702B2 |
Electrical conductor arrangement as a component of a photovoltaic array
An electrical conductor arrangement, particularly as a component of a photovoltaic array. Such an arrangement is designed having a first electrically conductive element, a second electrically conductive element, and an electrically conductive rod which itself has a threading, wherein the two elements are in electrical contact with each other via said rod. |
| US08672699B2 |
Automatic connector with indicator
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a connector comprising a shell with a shell axis, a shell opening, a plurality of retaining structures, an inner shell surface, and an outer shell surface; the retaining structures are, at least in part, configured to retain a spring in a compressed state; a plurality of clamping members axially located within the shell between the spring and the shell opening; and a release that is generally coaxial with the shell opening and configured to release the compressed spring when a cable is inserted past the clamping members. |
| US08672693B2 |
USB interface and data product with the interface
The present invention discloses a USB interface comprising a turnover joint (21), a rotating joint (22) and a connecting shaft (24) connecting the turnover joint (21) with the rotating joint (22); wherein one end of the turnover joint (21) is connected to a data product body (1), and the other end is connected to the rotating joint (22); and the end of the rotating joint (22) that is away from the turnover joint (21) is provided with a connecting terminal (25), which is connected to the data product body (1) via a cable (27); the rotating joint (22) is rotatable relative to the turnover joint (21). The present invention further discloses a data product with the USB interface. Using the present invention, when the data product is plugged into an electronic product, a variety of different position relationships may be generated with respect to the electronic product. |
| US08672690B2 |
Electronic connector including grounding part having protrusion interposed between terminal connecting parts
An electronic connector includes a plurality of pairs of terminal parts for transmitting an electric signal; and grounding parts shaped like plates and connected to have a ground potential, wherein the grounding parts have protrusions protruding on a side of the pairs of terminal parts, and the protrusions are respectively interposed between the pairs of terminal parts which are adjacent to each other. |
| US08672688B2 |
Land grid array interposer with compressible conductors
An electrical interconnect is provided for use within, for example, a land grid array (LGA) interposer such as a module-to-board connector. The electrical interconnect includes an electrically-conductive, compressible conductor which has a first conductor end portion and a second conductor end portion. The first and second conductor end portions physically contact in slidable relation each other with compression of the compressible conductor to facilitate inhibiting rotation of the compressible conductor. In one embodiment, the first end portion includes at least one first leg and the second end portion includes at least two second legs, and the at least one first leg and at least two second legs are interdigitated. Further, in one embodiment, the first end portion and the second end portion are each in slidable contact with an inner-facing surface of the compressible conductor. |
| US08672687B2 |
Dry-erase board with inserts
A new design for a dry-erase board allows for writing on a clear top surface or a second surface under the clear top surface. The dry-erase board includes an insert positioned between the clear top surface and a second surface, the insert being protected by the clear top surface. |
| US08672682B2 |
Conversion of alphabetic words into a plurality of independent spellings
A method of automatically converting alphabetic text written in a text based language into a non-text based language. The method can include parsing the text to identify at least one word. The method also can include via a processor, identifying within a lexicon database data corresponding to the word, wherein the data corresponding to the word identifies at least one pictograph or symbol selected from a group of pictographs or symbols consisting of between twenty seven and thirty three distinct pictographs or symbols that visually look different than the text, wherein each pictograph or symbol corresponds to a unique speech sound of the text based language. The pictograph or symbol can be rendered in a view. |
| US08672681B2 |
System and method for conditioning a child to learn any language without an accent
A system for conditioning a child to learn any language without an accent, contains a memory and a processor configured by the memory to perform the steps of: separating from a full International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) set, a native language IPA, resulting in a derivative set, wherein the native language is at least one native language of the child; sequencing the derivative set according to aspects of the derivative set, wherein aspects are selected from the group including consonants, vowels, and tones, resulting in a sequenced derivative set; selecting words in foreign languages that use at least one aspect of the sequenced derivative set each; embedding the selected words in an easy to follow format, in the native language of the child; and playing the easy to follow format with the embedded words according to the prior determined sequence of the sequenced derivative set. |
| US08672674B2 |
Burner
A burner (1) for burning a gaseous oxidant with a gaseous fuel, with a combustion chamber (2), in which the combustion reaction takes place during the operation of the burner (2), has a wall structure (4) which defines the combustion chamber (2) on the inlet side and which has oxidant openings (5) for introducing the oxidant into the combustion chamber (2) and fuel openings (6), which are separate therefrom, for introducing the fuel into the combustion chamber (2). The wall structure (4) has an oxidant distributor space (7), which is fluidically connected with the oxidant openings (5) on the outlet side and is fluidically connected with at least one oxidant feed opening (9) on the inlet side, as well as contains a fuel distributor space (8), which is fluidically separated from the oxidant distributor space (7) and is fluidically connected on the outlet side with the fuel openings (6) and is fluidically connected with at least one fuel feed opening (10) on the inlet side. A plurality of oxidant feed openings (9) are formed in the wall structure (4) on a side facing away from the combustion chamber (2), a plurality of fuel feed openings (10) are formed in the wall structure (4) on the side facing away from the combustion chamber (2), and the oxidant feed openings (9) and fuel feed openings (10) are arranged next to each other and alternating with one another in a straight connection area (11). |
| US08672671B2 |
Chemical looping combustion
The present invention comprises a method and reactor of chemical looping combustion involving at least two gases in a reactor in which: said at least two gases are conveyed to a reactor fluid inlet center which is divided in at least two sectors; said at least two gases flow radially outward into an oxygen carrier bed that surrounds said fluid inlet center, said oxygen carrier bed comprising an active material, in which at least one reaction takes place between said active material and said at least two gases; effluents from said at least one reaction are conveyed to an outer compartment of the reactor, said compartment being divided in two sections by means of two radially extending partition walls, said fluid inlet center, said oxygen carrier bed and said outer compartment are rotating relative to each other. |
| US08672668B2 |
Device for producing closures
The invention relates to a device (1) for producing hinged closures out of plastic. The device (1) has a prismatic central block (3) which can be rotated about a rotational axis (2), said block being arranged between a first and a second molding plate (4, 5). The first and the second molding plates (4, 5) are movable in relation to the central block (3) in a first direction, and in a closed position, form a plurality of cavities in the area of a first and a second parting plane. The device has a handling system (14) used to remove and transport the hinged closures onto a capping device (16) in accordance with their layout. |
| US08672666B2 |
Polymer mortar composite pipe material and manufacturing method
Composite material and plunger-cast pipe manufacturing method and system wherein the composite material includes waste, chemically unmodified PET material, one or more waste filler materials (e.g. rock crusher fines, lime sludge or waste coal combustion by-products), and fiber reinforcement (e.g. glass, metal, ceramic, carbon, organic, and polymer fibers) and wherein the PET material is melted and mixed in a container to disperse filler material and fiber reinforcement in the PET material. The resulting mixture can be formed into a tubular pipe shape using the plunger-cast manufacturing method and system wherein a plunger piston and inner collapsible mold are pushed into the melted composite material contained in an outer mold. When cooled and solidified in the mold, a composite material having a matrix comprising PET with filler material and fiber reinforcement distributed in the matrix is formed in the shape of a tubular body. |
| US08672665B2 |
Vacuum bag with integral fluid transfer conduits and seals for resin transfer and other processes
Disclosed are fluid transfer and evacuation structures formed in a vacuum bag operable for use in vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding, debulking, compaction, or similar processes. A reusable vacuum bag can be provided including an elastomeric membrane having a preform-contact surface and at least one textured surface formed in the elastomeric membrane. The textured surface can define a fluid transfer channel. At least one fluid extraction port can be provided in communication with the fluid transfer channel, the fluid extraction port being adapted for engagement to a vacuum pump to remove fluids from the fluid transfer channel. The textured surface defining the fluid transfer channel can be adapted to permit the flow of fluids between the elastomeric membrane and a base mold in communication with the elastomeric membrane when the fluid extraction port is engaged to a vacuum pump. |
| US08672663B2 |
Imprint apparatus and article manufacturing method
An imprint apparatus of the present invention that molds and cures an imprint material on a substrate using a mold to form a pattern on the substrate. The imprint apparatus includes a supply unit configured to supply a gas into a gap between the imprint material on the substrate and the mold. The supply unit is configured to supply a mixed gas in which a permeable gas, which permeates at least one of the mold, the imprint material and the substrate, and a condensable gas, which is liquefied under a pressure generated by the molding, is mixed with each other. |
| US08672662B2 |
Plastic extruder
The invention relates to a device (1) for extruding thermoplastic material, having an extruder housing (22) in which an extruder screw (22) driven by a drive device (23) is supported rotatably about the axis thereof, said housing comprising an intake opening (24) to which a plastic material feeder (3) is connected, said feeder comprising at least one air inlet opening (36), wherein the extruder housing (22) comprises at least one vapor outlet opening (41) upstream of the intake opening (24) and an air/vapor path (28) is defined from the intake opening (24) to the vapor outlet opening (41). |
| US08672659B2 |
Vane air motor with prevention of leaking radial bearing grease
A vane air motor is disclosed which is configured to prevent grease in a radial bearing from leaking into a rotor chamber. The vane air motor has a motor housing (20) having a rotor chamber, a rotor (22) with vanes (24) disposed in the rotor chamber, a first end wall (16) of the motor housing equipped with a radial bearing (50) rotatably supporting a support shaft portion (28) of the rotor, and a casing contiguously joined to the motor housing to form a compressed air supply chamber (44) together with the first end wall to supply compressed air into the rotor chamber through an air supply hole (46) formed in the first end wall. The first end wall has communication means (16-5, 16-6 and 16-7) for supplying compressed air from the compressed air supply chamber to the side of the first radial bearing closer to the rotor. |
| US08672657B2 |
Double gear pump with improved bearings
In a double gear pump that is provided with a drive gear; two driven gears that are oppositely arranged with the drive gear therebetween, a first bearing that supports a drive shaft of the drive gear; and a second and a third bearings that support rotating shafts of the two driven gears, the bearing length of the first bearing is formed shorter than the bearing lengths of the second and third bearings. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a double gear pump that is capable of easily and reliably reducing the bearing loss of a bearing that support a gear. |
| US08672651B2 |
Fuel pump module with driver equipped inside fuel tank
Provided is a fuel pump module used for a car, and more particularly, to a fuel pump module with a driver equipped inside a fuel tank capable of solving a problem of space limitation due to the installation of the driver by disposing the driver for controlling a BLDC fuel pump between a flange and a reservoir and mounting it in the fuel tank, minimizing the degradation in performance of the BLDC fuel pump caused by voltage drop and efficiency degradation due to a wire by reducing a length of a wire for electrically connecting the driver with the BLDC fuel pump, and achieving a sufficient heat radiation effect by directly transferring the heat energy generated from electrical devices such as FET, MCU, or the like, mounted in the driver to the fuel in the fuel tank through the case cover. |
| US08672648B2 |
Methods for reducing the non-linear behavior of actuators used for synthetic jets
A synthetic jet ejector (101) is provided herein which comprises a diaphragm (119), a first voice coil (121) disposed on a first side of the diaphragm, and a second voice coil (123) disposed on a second side of the diaphragm. |
| US08672646B2 |
Scroll compressor
A scroll compressor has an electric motor portion, a compression mechanism portion connected to the electric motor portion, and an oil sump for lubricating oil in a sealed container and compresses a refrigerant in the compression mechanism portion. A used refrigerant is a halogenated hydrocarbon or a hydrocarbon having a carbon double bond in the composition or is a mixture containing one of the same. A sliding surface of at least one of two components constituting a sliding portion having a relation of sliding to each other in a sealed container is structured in such a way that an iron metal or an aluminum metal is not directly exposed. |
| US08672645B2 |
Separation type pneumatic dual partition membrane pump and external pneumatic control valve thereof
The present invention relates to a separation type pneumatic dual partition membrane pump, which comprises a pump body and an external pneumatic control valve which is separately installed. Through the operation of the external pneumatic control valve, the main shaft of the pump body and the valve rod of the external pneumatic control valve are reciprocally moved, and the two partition membranes respectively generate stretch and compress motions for changing the volume of each liquid room in the pump body so as to perform the pump stroke and the liquid suction stroke to the liquid. |
| US08672641B2 |
Electric submersible pumps
An electric submersible pump contains an AC permanent magnet motor having three or more phases A, B, C and has a drive circuit for supplying varying drive signals to all the phases of the motor at the same time. Each drive signal is constituted by a cyclically smoothly varying voltage applied to the corresponding motor phase during driving of the motor. The circuit includes switches (902, 903) for each motor phase, a control arrangement for turning the switches (902, 903) on and off at a frequency greater than the frequency of the cyclically smoothly varying voltages, and a filter (907, 908) for filtering the output voltages of the switches (902, 903) to produce the cyclically smoothly varying voltages. Such a drive circuit drives all the phases of the motor continuously such that damaging transients will not arise and without requiring the motor emf or drive signals to be sinusoidal. |
| US08672639B2 |
Bilge pump and method
A vacuum assisted bilge pump small enough for the crowded spaces below decks in the engine and pump room of a boat which can also function as a transfer pump, a crash pump and a fire extinguisher. The pump comprises two chambers and is internally configured to aid in the separation of gas and liquid increasing pump throughput. |
| US08672638B2 |
Air turbine starter
A blade profile section for an air turbine starter includes an airfoil which defines an airfoil profile section through a leading edge and a trailing edge. The airfoil profile section is defined by a set of X-coordinates and Z-coordinates defined in any of Table I, Table II, Table III or Table IV scaled by a desired factor. The X-coordinate is the tangential direction, and the Z-coordinate is a axial direction between the leading edge and the trailing edge. |
| US08672636B2 |
Method for manufacturing braided preforms
The present invention relates to an automatic method for manufacturing a stator or rotor blade preform for a turbine engine, comprising at least the following successive steps: a) a step for the helical braiding of a plurality of interlocked tubular braids (1), called nested braids, said step being conducted on braiding machines (2) placed in a row in a braiding direction; b) a step for flattening the nested braids (1); c) a step for stitching the nested braids (1) together in a direction perpendicular to the braiding direction; d) a step for winding the nested braids (1) on a transport mandrel (3); e) a step for cutting the nested braids (1) unwound from the transport mandrel (3), said cut being performed in a direction perpendicular to the braiding direction. |
| US08672635B2 |
Optimized aerodynamic profile for a turbine blade, in particular for a rotary wheel of the first stage of a turbine
When cold and in the non-coated state, the aerodynamic profile is substantially identical to a nominal profile determined by the Cartesian coordinates X,Y,Z′ given in Table 1, in which the coordinate Z′ is the quotient D/H where D is the distance of the point under consideration from a first reference plane P0 situated at the base of the nominal profile, and H is the height of said profile measured from the first reference plane to a second reference plane P1. The measurements D and H are taken radially relative to the axis of the turbine, while the X coordinate is measured in the axial direction of the turbine. |
| US08672633B2 |
Vertical axis wind turbine
A vertical axis wind turbine comprising at least two rotor portions, each portion having a bottom, a top, and a curved horizontal cross section when seen in top view. A top cap may be provided that has a convex portion corresponding to each rotor portion that extends forwardly in a windward direction. Each rotor portion may comprise two angled rotor sections that meet at substantially a vertical midpoint of the rotor portion. The angled sections may be angled rearwardly in a leeward direction and/or radially and may be angled from 1 to 20 degrees with respect to vertical. There may be three or more rotor portions and the turbine may be comprised of one or more vertically stacked sections. |
| US08672632B2 |
Back-up featherer
A back-up featherer is provided for an engine arrangement having a main hydraulic actuator which angularly displaces propellers of a propeller assembly of the engine arrangement. The back-up featherer has a back-up hydraulic actuator for angular displacement of the propellers, the back-up hydraulic actuator rotating with the propeller assembly. The back-up featherer further has one or more back-up fluid supply lines for transferring hydraulic fluid between a hydraulic pressure power source located on a static structure of the engine arrangement and the back-up hydraulic actuator. The back-up featherer further has a back-up hydraulic rotating coupling, the back-up fluid supply lines fluidly communicating with the back-up hydraulic actuator via the back-up rotating coupling. A static side of the back-up hydraulic rotating coupling is mounted to the static structure of the engine arrangement, and a rotating side of the back-up hydraulic rotating coupling rotates with the propeller assembly. |
| US08672631B2 |
Articulated wind turbine blades
A blade assembly for a wind turbine has a hub, a plurality of inboard and outboard blades, and a plurality of cables. The inboard blades are spaced apart from one another and are mounted on the hub. Each outboard blade is pivotally connected to one of the inboard blades such that it is capable of rotation to a desired swept angle relative to the inboard blade to which it is connected. The cables extend between the outboard blades and the inboard blades to actuate rotation of the outboard blades to the desired swept angle. |
| US08672630B2 |
Annular turbine ring rotor
A fan-turbine rotor assembly includes one or more turbine ring rotors. Each turbine ring rotor is cast as a single integral annular ring. By forming the turbine as one or more rings, leakage between adjacent blade platforms is minimized which increases engine efficiency. Assembly of the turbine ring rotors to the diffuser ring includes axial installation and radial locking of each turbine ring rotor. |
| US08672629B2 |
Cooling of the tip of a blade
A turbine blade including an open cavity at its distal tip, the cavity being defined by a bottom wall and a side wall extending along the perimeter of the distal tip in an extension of the upper and lower walls of the blade, the side wall of the cavity including an opening in a vicinity of the leading edge of the blade opening into the cavity. A deflector extends at least in the middle portion of the cavity between the leading edge and the trailing edge. |
| US08672628B2 |
Wind turbine generator
With a simple and low-cost structure, it is possible to introduce a sufficient amount of external wind while suppressing power consumption, and thereby, inside a nacelle and a tower are satisfactorily cooled. A wind turbine generator, in which a rotor head generates power by driving a generator installed inside a nacelle and in which the nacelle is installed at a top end of a tower, wherein an introducing vent that takes the external wind into an internal space in the wind turbine generator is provided at a portion of an outer circumference surface of the tower or the nacelle that receives positive pressure due to the external wind; and an exhaust vent that externally exhausts cooling air in the internal space is provided at a portion of an outer circumference surface of the tower or the nacelle that receives the negative pressure due to the external wind. |
| US08672623B2 |
Stator vane assembly
A stator vane assembly includes: inner and outer vane supports, and vanes extending radially between the supports. The supports have openings for receiving the ends of the vanes, and each vane is connected to the supports by a vane boot. Each vane boot has: a rim portion shaped to locate the boot within the corresponding opening in the vane support, the rim portion engaging with the inner surface defining the opening, an abutting portion for abutting against the vane support in the region surrounding the opening, and a vane pocket for accommodating the end of the vane. The vane pockets of the vane boots are shaped so as to position the vane with a predetermined stagger angle. |
| US08672622B2 |
Fluid machine, wind turbine, and method for increasing velocity of internal flow of fluid machine, utilizing unsteady flow
A fluid machine includes a non-streamline casing capable of forming a stable vortex street on a downstream side by internal and external flows, and an impeller disposed inside the casing. The casing has a vortex generator configured to form the vortex street on the downstream side. The vortex generator is provided with a phase control structure which regulates a phase of a vortex formation that fluctuates along a circumferential direction in a plane including a rear face of the casing and which clarifies a cell structure to be formed along the circumferential direction of the casing to fix, on a surface of the casing, respective positions of cells into a plurality of segmented regions arranged in the circumferential direction. The velocity of the internal flow is increased by the phase control structure. |
| US08672620B2 |
Air turbine starter turbine nozzle airfoil
A vane profile section for an Air Turbine Starter includes an airfoil which defines an airfoil profile section through a leading edge and a trailing edge, the airfoil profile section defined by a set of X-coordinates and Y-coordinates. |
| US08672619B2 |
Turbocharger vane
A vane (234) is provided which reduces leakage of gas in a variable geometry turbocharger (210) from the high pressure side of the vane (234) to the low pressure side of the vane (234). The vane (234) can have a channel (330, 430) along a gas bearing surface (325, 425) for reducing the leakage. The channel (330, 430) can be defined at least in part by sideplates (300, 350). The sideplates (300, 350) can be integrally cast with the rest of the vane (234). At least one of the sideplates (300, 350) can have a hole therein for a vane shaft (228) which allows movement of the vane (234) for gas flow control. The sideplates (300, 350) can have edges (301, 351) that conform to the shape of the gas bearing surface (325, 425). |
| US08672618B2 |
Multi-vane variable stator unit of a fluid flow machine
A fluid flow machine has a main flow path which is confined by a hub (3) and a casing (2) and in which at least one row of variable stator vanes (1) is arranged. The stator vanes (1) are rotatably borne around a rotary axis 4. On at least one of the hub (3) and the casing (2), at least one arrangement with at least two stator vanes (1) connected to a common rotary base (5) is provided, such that the at least two stator vanes (1) are rotatable around the rotary axis (4) when this multi-vane variable stator unit is varied. |
| US08672617B2 |
Energy conversion hydraulic plant and method for controlling such plant
The invention relates to a hydraulic plant (I) that defines a path (4, 5, 6) for a forced water flow (E), and comprises at least one machine (1) of the turbine, pump or turbine-pump type, a member (8) provided with at least one deformable wall (81) and defining at least one closed volume (V8) with variable dimensions. The plant also includes means (9, 91) for supplying (Fg) the closed volume with a pressurized fluid. The member with a deformable wall (81) is mounted in a hydraulic duct (6) located downstream from a rotary portion (2) of the machine (1). The deformable wall defines, locally and downstream from the rotary portion (2), a modular section (S63) for the flow (E) passage in the hydraulic duct (6). According to the method of the invention, a pressurized fluid is injected (F9) into a closed volume having variable dimensions (V8) and defined by a member (8) provided in a hydraulic duct (6) located downstream from the rotary portion (2), in order to modulate the passage section (S63). |
| US08672612B2 |
Platform cooling of turbine vane
A turbine vane is provided which includes a radial outer platform, a radial inner platform and an airfoil extending between the outer platform and the inner platform. Each platform has a gas washed surface facing towards the respective other platform, a non gas washed surface facing away from the respective other platform and a peripheral surface extending from the gas washed surface to the non gas washed surface. The peripheral surface includes an upstream section that is designed to be directed towards the gas flow washing the gas washed surface. Cooling fluid channels each include an opening in the peripheral surface or in the gas washed surface and are located in at least a section of the outer platform and/or in at least a section of the inner platform. The respective section directly adjoins the upstream section of the peripheral surface of the respective platform. |
| US08672611B2 |
Stabilizing drive for contactless rotary blood pump impeller
A rotary blood pump includes a casing defining a pumping chamber. The pumping chamber has a blood inlet and a tangential blood outlet. One or more motor stators are provided outside of the pumping chamber. A rotatable impeller is within the pumping chamber and is adapted to cause blood entering the pumping chamber to move to the blood outlet. The impeller has one or more magnetic regions. The impeller is radially constrained in rotation by magnetic coupling to one or more motor stators and is axially constrained in rotation by one or more hydrodynamic thrust bearing surfaces on the impeller. |
| US08672609B2 |
Composite fan containment case assembly
A fan case for a gas turbine engine includes a composite fan containment case having an outer surface, a front and a rear. An attachment flange and a mounting ring are respectively provided on the front and the rear. A bolt attachment is supported on the outer surface. The composite fan containment case has a containment area that is configured to be axially aligned with a fan blade. A ballistic liner is arranged in the containment area. |
| US08672608B2 |
Tower type vertical axle windmill
A tower type vertical axle windmill includes a tower portion. The tower portion has a plurality of layers and a plurality of wind turbines and a computer is used to open and close the walls of the tower portion. Each of the wind turbines includes a seat portion, an energy output assembly and a rudder assembly. The seat portion can carry other components. A circular platform is disposed on the base portion of the energy output assembly and is supported by bearings to enable it to turn around. A flywheel is disposed on the outmost portion of the blade module and can store the energy extracted from the wind and enhance the balance of the windmill. In addition, an output axle is connected with the circular platform and a generator. |
| US08672607B2 |
Vacuum pump
A differentially pumped vacuum system including apparatus having at least first and second chambers; and a vacuum pump for differentially pumping fluid from the chambers to generate a first pressure above 0.1 mbar in the first chamber and a second pressure lower than the first pressure in the second chamber, the pump having at least first and second pump inlets each for receiving fluid from a respective pressure chamber and a plurality of pumping stages positioned relative to the inlets so that fluid received from the first chamber passes through fewer pumping stages than fluid from the second chamber, the inlets being attached to the apparatus such that at least 99% of the fluid mass pumped from the apparatus passes through at least one of the pumping stages of the pump. |
| US08672603B2 |
Auto-sequencing inline processing apparatus
An apparatus and method for concurrent processing of several substrates. The system employs a novel architecture which, while being linear, may autonomously sequence processing and move substrates in different directions as necessary. The system moves several substrates concurrently; however, unlike the prior art it does not utilize trays. |
| US08672600B2 |
Deck clip
The present invention provides a clip having a general T-shape. The clip may be mounted to a deck board structure for engagement with a joist. The clip may include a base for mounting to a structure, such as a deck board, and barbs located on the base. The clip may also include a pair of supporting arms having clamping tabs with barbs. The barbs of the base and the clamping tabs may grip onto a joist. The clip may also include an aperture that is capable of connecting the base to the deck board. Once assembled with the deck board and joist, the clip may remain completely hidden from view after deck completion. |
| US08672598B2 |
Screw post
A screw post is detachably screwed with a self-tapping screw. The screw post includes a post body and a rib structure. The post body has an approximately triangular hollow structure formed therein. The approximately triangular hollow structure has three arc-shaped sides. The rib structure protrudes from an outer surface of the post body corresponding to at least one of the three arc-shaped sides in an axially-extending manner. The self-tapping screw is screwed into the approximately triangular hollow structure. |
| US08672595B2 |
Expansion anchor and method for the preferably surface-near anchoring in an anchoring base
The invention relates to an expansion anchor (10) comprising an expansion sleeve (12) which is divided into expansions (18) by means of longitudinal slots (14) arranged in the front section in the direction of placement (16) of the expansion sleeve (12) and also has an inner thread (20) in the rear section in the direction of placement (16). The expansion anchor (10) further comprises an expansion body (22), which preferably has the shape of a cone stump that tapers conically in the direction of placement (18), the conical stump being arranged in the front section in the direction of placement (16) of the expansion sleeve and inside the expansion sleeve (12). |
| US08672592B2 |
Milling collet having pull-out preventer for retaining a fluted milling tool
A pull-out preventer and milling collet that includes the pull-out preventer. The pull-out preventer is configured to prevent axial migration of a fluted milling tool out of the milling collet. The milling collet includes a through-hole extending from a rear-end aperture to an opposing cutting-end aperture of a basic body thereof. The pull-out preventer is located at the cutting-end aperture of the basic body. |
| US08672586B2 |
Systems and methods for temperature control and heat extraction from waste landfills
The field of the invention relates to systems and methods for exchanging heat from the degradation, decomposition, and chemical/biochemical transformation of municipal, industrial, and other types of waste. In one embodiment, a heat extraction system may include a closed-loop fluid circulation piping channeled throughout at least one heat extraction well oriented throughout a waste mass. The piping is fluidly coupled to a heat exchanger. A first circulation fluid is circulated through the closed-loop circulation piping into various depths of the waste mass to transfer thermal energy between said mass and said heat exchanger. In one embodiment, the transfer of thermal energy between the waste mass and the heat exchanger is used as alternative energy method and to control at least one of shear strength, compressibility, and hydraulic conductivity of the waste mass. |
| US08672583B1 |
Corrugated stormwater chamber having sub-corrugations
A plastic arch-shape cross section corrugated stormwater chamber has a multiplicity of crest corrugations and valley corrugations which run transverse to its length. Sub-corrugations run along part or all of the arch-curve lengths of either crest corrugations or valley corrugations, or along both of them. A sub-corrugations are smaller in dimension than an associated crest corrugation or valley corrugation. Sub-corrugations may taper in width and depth and may taper to nothingness. A compound convex shape end cap, useful for closing off the ends of stormwater chambers, has substantially vertical corrugations with analogous sub-corrugations. |
| US08672582B2 |
Multipurpose compactor and method for operating the multipurpose compactor
A multipurpose compactor with an automatic safety system is provided. The automatic safety system comprises at least one transmitter and one receiver. The transmitter is coupled mechanically fixed to the multipurpose compactor and/or to a unit movable relative to the multipurpose compactor. The receiver is coupled fixedly to the movable unit and/or the multipurpose compactor. |
| US08672579B2 |
Expansion joint system of concrete slab arrangement
Expansion joint system of a concrete slab arrangement, comprising an expansion joint reinforcement to be arranged between a first and a second concrete slab (1, 2), the expansion joint reinforcement comprising at least two local dowels (3)transferring loads perpendicular to the slab plane. The dowels comprise a dowel plate (4) and a casing part (5). The dowel plate (4) and the casing part (5) are attached to the concrete slabs on different sides of the joint. The casing part (5) prevents the dowel plate from adhering to the concrete slab and allows the dowel plate (4) to move inside the casing part and thus allows the movements of the slabs (1, 2) in the horizontal direction. The dowels (3) are installed alternately relative to the joint so that the casing parts (5) of the adjacent dowels (3) are always installed on different sides of the joint. |
| US08672577B2 |
Inside wrap post coupler accommodating beam rivet
A post coupler is provided with a pair of coupler flanges having rivet receiving apertures for receiving rivets extending from horizontal shelf-supporting beams to facilitate vertical shelf placement in a shelving unit unfettered by the vertical disposition of the post couplers. Apertures in the coupler index with apertures in abutting corner post sections to permit rivet extension therethrough. The reverse bend flanges of the coupler have a length shorter than the overall length of the coupler and wrap around edges of post sections, to be coupled, from the inside to the outside. |
| US08672576B2 |
Ball joint
Disclosed is a ball joint, the ball joint capable of preventing damage due to interference between parts even when the ball joint is tilted at a maximum angle and guaranteeing operational reliability, and including a spherical ball stud, a shaft coupled to a side of the ball stud, a holder having a seat portion to surround an outer circumference of the ball stud, and an elastic portion protruding upwards from the holder, having on an inner circumference thereof an inclined surface to limit a tilting angle of a portion of the shaft adjacent to the ball stud, and undergoing elastic deformation when the shaft is tilted at a maximum angle, so that the elastic portion absorbs shock when the ball joint is rotated to the maximum, thus preventing damage or removal of parts. |
| US08672574B2 |
Structural connecting rod made of a composite and process for producing such a connecting rod
A connecting rod is composed of two or more assembled shells made of a composite, open over the entire length of the connecting rod. The shells incorporate clevis joints for introducing stress at each of their ends. The shells are produced separately then assembled together to form a sealed section. Each shell is made from a material preimpregnated with long fibres. The production of each shell is simplified due to the overall shape of the shell as a simple curve, thus a shell may be produced industrially, for example, by thermoforming a flat composite preform. The two shells are assembled by simultaneous polymerization of the shells, by bonding, by welding, by riveting or any other assembly process or combination of assembly processes that are compatible with one another. The structural composite connecting rod obtained has very good mechanical properties, especially in compression, with a simple and economic production process. |
| US08672572B1 |
Cooking oil applicator for a hot grill
A cooking oil applicator comprises a body, including: a tank capable of holding cooking oil; a sponge capable of absorbing some of the cooking oil; a flow control valve situated between the tank and the sponge for controlling an amount of the cooking oil flowing from the tank to the sponge; and a fire-retardant pad below the sponge capable of receiving cooking oil from the sponge and facilitating application of the cooking oil to a hot grill. The tank includes a level window so that the user can determine the degree to which the tank is full. Additionally, the cooking oil applicator includes a handle attached to the body for holding the cooking oil applicator during usage. The cooking oil applicator also includes a cradle attachable to the body allowing the cooking oil applicator to be placed safely on a flat surface while not in use. |
| US08672571B2 |
Illuminated marking device and apparatus
An illuminated marking device is described for use with colorless marking materials. The marking materials remain colorless until being transferred to a marking surface having a developer material disposed thereon that causes the marking material to develop a colored appearance. The marking material is contained within a marking device having a clear or translucent barrel and a lens integrated into a first end. The lens is tinted in a color similar to that of the developed color of the marking material. The first end of the marker is inserted into a light housing having a light source therein. Light from the light source is filtered by the lens and thereby illuminates the barrel of the marker in a color similar to that of the developed color of the marker. The glowing marker indicates the marking color of the marker and provides an enjoyable glowing experience. |
| US08672569B2 |
Platen roller fixing structure and printer
A platen roller fixing structure includes a platen roller; a spring; a spring supporting part supporting the spring; a print head; a platen roller receiving part configured to receive the platen roller; and a spring receiving part configured to receive the spring. The platen roller, the spring, and the spring supporting part are provided on one of a body part and a movable part of a printer. The movable part is rotatably connected to the body part. The print head, the platen roller receiving part, and the spring receiving part are provided on the other one of the body part and the movable part. When the movable part is closed relative to the body part, the spring receiving part comes into contact with the spring to cause the spring to press the platen roller against the platen roller receiving part. |
| US08672568B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus is provided. The printing apparatus includes a printing unit, a sheet feeder, a discharge unit, a sheet path including a feeding path, a discharge path, and a reversing path, a manual sheet inlet and a manual sheet path for a manually-inserted recording sheet, a detecting unit to detect the manually-inserted recording sheet fed through the manual sheet inlet whilst a double-face printing operation is conducted with a preceding recording sheet, a judging unit to judge as to whether the detecting unit detected the manually-inserted recording sheet, and a conveyer controller unit to convey the preceding recording sheet in the double-face printing operation to the discharge unit without reversing when the judging unit judges that the detecting unit detected the manually-inserted recording sheet. |
| US08672566B2 |
Node apparatus and communication method
A first node apparatus includes: ports; a storage device; and receiving, updating, and transmitting circuits. The storage device stores: information associating, with first identification information identifying a first frame, information distinguishing a first port having been used as a destination port when the first node apparatus has transmitted the first frame; and information associating, with each node apparatus, state information indicating whether frame transmission from each port is feasible. The receiving circuit receives, from a second node apparatus, a second frame including second identification information. When the second identification information is identical with the first, the updating circuit updates the state information associated with a node apparatus being a destination of the second frame to make the state information indicate frame transmission from the first port is not feasible. The transmitting circuit selects a second port from which transmission of the second frame is feasible, and transmits the second frame. |
| US08672565B2 |
Tape printing apparatus and outlet therefor
A tape printing apparatus including a tape accommodation area for accommodating a supply of image receiving tape; a cutting arrangement; an outlet arranged adjacent said cutting arrangement, the outlet having a first part downstream of the cutting arrangement with a size such that a user is able to access an area adjacent the cutting arrangement. |
| US08672564B2 |
Printing device
A printing device for printing labels having a memory for storing one or more character sets, each character set including at least a principle character and an additional character which is associated with the principle character; a user input having character selection keys for selecting a character set to define an image to be printed by the printing device; and a controller for accessing characters from the memory to be displayed and printed which correspond to characters selected at the user input means; wherein actuation of a character selection key selects the principle character in the selected character set and maintaining activation of the character selection key for a predetermined time period selects the associated additional character. |
| US08672562B2 |
Optical transceiver having effective heat conducting path from TOSA to metal housing
An optical transceiver having a effective heat conducting path from the TOSA to the metal housing is disclosed. The TOSA has a bottom member, on which a heat generating device such as TEC is mounted, extending to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the metal housing. The optical transceiver further includes a block movably in contact with the bottom member of the TOSA and the inner surface of the metal housing to establish the effective heat conducting path from the TOSA to the metal housing. |
| US08672559B2 |
Thin connector assembly that has optical and electrical capabilities and that includes a plug having an optical surface that can be easily wiped clean
A thin hybrid plug, a thin hybrid receptacle that mates with the thin hybrid plug, and a thin hybrid connector assembly comprising the thin hybrid receptacle mated with the thin hybrid plug are provided. A method for configuring a thin hybrid plug so that an optical surface of the plug is disposed for easy cleaning is also provided. An optics system of the hybrid plug has an optical surface that is substantially flush with an end face of a molded plug body of the hybrid plug to allow the optical surface to be easily wiped clean. In addition, the electrical contacts system and the optics system of the hybrid plug are arranged to enable the optical surface of the optics system to be easily wiped with a cleaning device, such as a cotton-tipped swab, for example. An optics system of the hybrid receptacle has an optical surface that is also disposed to be easily wiped with a cleaning device, such as a cotton-tipped swab, for example. |
| US08672558B2 |
APC adapter
Optical signals are transmitted via fiber optic cables. The cable ends have connectors that connect to fiber-optic adapters. The interface between a connector and its adapter typically creates unwanted signal reflections. These unwanted signal reflections are mitigated by including an eight degree angle-offset of one face of an optical fiber within the adapter itself, the other face of the optical fiber having no angle offset, and the adapter being contained within a rigid housing. The angle offset of the fiber optic face in the adapter is mated with a complementary angle offset of the optical fiber in the cable connector. Embodiments of the present invention avoid cable management issues presented by previous adapters that included flexible cable between its input and output the previous adapters being designed primarily as jumpers and not suitable for use in tight, crowded spaces. |
| US08672557B2 |
Bearing arrangement for a tension roller
A bearing arrangement (1) for a tension roller (2) designed as a hollow cylinder at least in segments, having at least one bearing (3) supporting the tension roller (2), wherein a damping layer (5) made of elastomer or rubber material is disposed between a ring (4) of the bearing (3) and the tension roller (2), directly or indirectly, and wherein at least one axial end of the tension roller (2) is closed by a cover (6). In order to achieve a low-noise and self-centering seal for the axial end of the tension roller, according to the invention, the cover (6) is disposed in a mounting segment (8) and is held by the same, said segment being molded from the material of the damping layer in an axial end region of the damping layer (5). |
| US08672555B2 |
Rolling bearing having internal lubrication
Rolling bearing having an inner ring (1) and an outer ring (2) with a row of rolling elements (3) held by a cage (4) between bearing races provided on the two rings, and an annular housing (5) surrounding one of said rings. Said ring forms with the housing at least one closed space (21a), (21b), inside which a lubricant is located. |
| US08672554B2 |
Bearing, in particular for a wind turbine
A bearing, in particular for a wind turbine, is provided. The bearing has a standing inner ring, an outer ring movable around the inner ring, lubricated rollers in a cage, arranged between the inner ring and the outer ring. The bearing includes a device for draining oil from a top region of the standing inner ring. |
| US08672551B2 |
Sliding bearing for internal combustion engines
A sliding bearing supporting a crankshaft journal portion of an internal combustion engine includes a semi-cylindrical bearing half provided with a circumferential oil groove on its inner surface. The circumferential oil groove has an open groove end at least at one of its two circumferential ends, one end being in the rotational direction of the crankshaft. The other cylindrical bearing half has at least one circumferential local groove on its inner circumferential surface with an open groove end at a second circumferential end directed in the opposite direction to the relative rotational direction of the crankshaft. The circumferential oil groove and the local circumferential groove are in fluid communication at a region where groove bottom of the local circumferential groove deviates toward the sliding bearing from another groove bottom of the circumferential groove. An axial groove is formed along a contact interface between the first and second circumferential ends. |
| US08672549B2 |
Keyless/grooveless foil bearing with fold over tab
An improved air foil bearing assembly is disclosed. The air foil bearing assembly includes a bearing housing having an axially extending bore therein and a shaft arranged within the bore for relative coaxial rotation with respect to the bearing housing. The shaft cooperates with the bearing housing to define an annular gap therebetween. A foil assembly is disposed in the annular gap, including at least one foil having at least one laterally extending tab. The tab is adapted to be received in and extend axially from the annular gap and is further adapted to be bent into frictional contact with an outer surface of the bearing housing to militate against axial movement of the foil. |
| US08672547B2 |
Milk cover
A liquid container cover is designed for a container which holds milk or other liquids and being stored in a refrigerator or other locations. Such cover, called “Milk Cover”, can trap dried milk flakes, small spills or drips, and other particles to keep them from landing on the refrigerator shelf or other shelf. The Milk Cover has cotton or foam material version with cow-pattern design to hold different sizes or shapes of containers. |
| US08672539B2 |
Multiple sensor fiber optic sensing system
A multiple sensor fiber optic sensing system. A method of sensing distributed temperature and at least another property in a well includes the steps of: interconnecting an optical switch to an optical fiber which extends along a wellbore in the well; operating the optical switch to optically connect the optical fiber to an interferometric measurement system; and operating the optical switch to optically connect the optical fiber to a distributed temperature measurement system. Another method includes the steps of: installing an optical fiber along a wellbore in the well, the optical fiber being a first distributed temperature sensor, the installing step including providing a substantial length of the optical fiber proximate a second sensor which senses the well property; and calibrating the second sensor using a temperature sensed by the first sensor in the substantial length of the optical fiber. |
| US08672533B2 |
Blender jar lid with strainer
In an electric blender having a lid assembly including a strainer, the blender includes a base including a motor; a jar with a top aperture and an impeller; and a lid for removably covering the jar. The lid includes a strainer section and a closer. The strainer section includes holes extending through the lid to allow contents of a predetermined size to flow out of the jar. The closer includes a pivot arm having an end pivotably connected to the first section. The pivot arm has a flat portion near the end. The flat portion is configured to contact the first section of the lid to maintain the closer in an open position relative to the strainer section. The first section has a recessed area above the strainer section. |
| US08672531B2 |
LED system, LED lamp and method for assembling a LED system
The LED system has a set consisting of multiple LED lamps and an integrally formed electrical connecting member common to the LED lamps, wherein the electrical connecting member has multiple connection points for contacting a respective LED lamp. |
| US08672530B2 |
Display device
Disclosed is a display device wherein a light emitting element can have a longer service life, while suppressing luminance unevenness without causing an increase in cost or size. The display device comprises a light guide plate (21), an LED (25) that is arranged on the side of at least one corner portion (21d) of the light guide plate (21), a frame (4) that has a lateral portion (4b), and a bezel (5) that has a lateral portion (5b). The LED (25) is attached to a part (4d) of the lateral portion (4b) of the frame (4), and the part (4d) is thermally connected to a part (5d) of the lateral portion (5b) of the bezel (5). |
| US08672529B2 |
Backlight unit
There is provided a backlight unit. The backlight unit includes a light guiding plate, a light source module including a substrate provided with a circuit wiring and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) blocks each including one or more LED mounted on the substrate to be positioned vertically with respect to the substrate, the one or more LED being disposed to face a side surface of the light guiding plate, a bottom chassis including a base and a sidewall upwardly extending from a circumference of the base, and accommodating the light source module and the light guiding plate in such a manner that the one or more LED is disposed to be adjacent to the sidewall, and a driving unit controlling a current signal applied to each of the plurality of LED blocks to thereby control brightness for each LED block. |
| US08672528B2 |
Planar illumination device and display device provided with the same
An object is to implement a narrowed picture-frame while suppressing the occurrence of light leakage and a reduction in luminance in an edge-light type backlight device. A backlight device is composed of LEDs (40); a side chassis (51) supporting a board having the LEDs (40) mounted thereon; a light guide plate (20) for allowing light emitted from the LEDs (40) to exit toward a liquid crystal panel in a planar manner; a reflection sheet (30) for allowing light traveling toward a back surface side within the light guide plate (20) to be reflected thereby; optical sheets (10) including a reflection type polarizer (11), a prism sheet (12), and a diffuser (13); and a top chassis (52) disposed on top of the optical sheets (10). Black printing (60) is provided in a part of the region of the diffuser (13). A length of the reflection type polarizer (11) is longer than a length of the light guide plate (20) such that an edge of the reflection type polarizer (11) is located closer to a side of the LEDs (40) than is an edge surface of the light guide plate (20). |
| US08672525B2 |
Projection head lamp assembly for vehicle
A projection head lamp assembly for a vehicle may include a bulb irradiating light, a reflector supporting the bulb and reflecting the light irradiated from the bulb to the front, a shield unit including a shield shaft supported by the reflector and a shield integrated on the shield shaft, a drive cam inserted into one end of the shield shaft to be rotated according to a straight movement of a solenoid, and a lens connected to the front of the reflector. The projection head lamp assembly may further include a return spring provided on an outer circumference of the shield shaft, and weights inserted into both ends of the shield shaft for preventing free movement of the shield shaft when the shield shaft is rotated. |
| US08672519B2 |
LED optical assembly
A reflector with an alignment recess is provided. The reflector has a recess portion that receives the base of a light emitting diode. At least a portion of an outer periphery of the base of the light emitting diode is adjacent at least portions of the recess portion of the reflector. |
| US08672518B2 |
Low profile light and accessory kit for the same
A luminaire includes a heat spreader; a heat sink; an LED light source; a power supply; an electrical supply line having a first end connected to the power supply, and a second end connected to a plug-in connector; and, an optic securely retained relative to the heat spreader or heat sink. An accessory kit includes a first pre-wired jumper including a pair of insulated electrical wires having a first plug-in connector electrically connected at one end and an Edison base electrically connected at the other end; and/or, a second pre-wired jumper including a pair of insulated electrical wires having a second plug-in connector electrically connected at one end and unconnected wire ends at the other end. The plug-in connector of the first pre-wired jumper and the second pre-wired jumper are each configured to electrically engage with the plug-in connector of the electrical supply line. |
| US08672517B2 |
Light-emitting module
A light-emitting module includes a heat-dissipating structure, a multichip package structure and a protection cover structure. The multichip package structure is disposed on the heat-dissipating structure, and the multichip package structure includes a substrate unit, a light-emitting unit, a frame unit and a package unit. The protection cover structure is disposed on the heat-dissipating structure to cover and protect the multichip package structure, and the protection cover structure has an opening for exposing the package unit. |
| US08672516B2 |
Lightweight heat sinks and LED lamps employing same
A heat sink comprises a heat sink body, a reflective layer disposed over the heat sink body that has reflectivity greater than 90% for light in the visible spectrum, and a light transmissive protective layer disposed over the reflective layer that is light transmissive for light in the visible spectrum. The heat sink body may comprise a structural heat sink body and a thermally conductive layer disposed over the structural heat sink body where the thermally conductive layer has higher thermal conductivity than the structural heat sink body and the reflective layer is disposed over the thermally conductive layer. A light emitting diode (LED)-based lamp comprises the aforesaid heat sink and an LED module secured with and in thermal communication with the heat sink. The LED-based lamp may have an A-line bulb configuration, or may comprise a directional lamp in which the heat sink defines a hollow light-collecting reflector. |
| US08672514B2 |
Reflective variable spot size lighting devices and systems
In one aspect, a lighting system is disclosed that includes an inner reflector extending from a proximal end to a distal end along an axis, where the proximal end is adapted to receive light from a light source and the distal end provides an exit opening (aperture) for the received light. The system can further include an outer reflector that is axially positioned relative to the inner reflector. The inner and outer reflectors are coupled for axial movement relative to one another to change the flood spread of the light exiting the lighting system. |
| US08672503B2 |
Lighting device and the fixing mechanics thereof
Example embodiments relate to a lighting device comprising a shell, at least one LED positioned at the bottom of the shell, and at least one fixing mechanics. The fixing mechanics comprises a base and a fixing element. An end of the base forms a plurality of pins which is ended with a hook. The fixing element connected with the base is fixed on the bottom of the shell. |
| US08672501B2 |
Mirror device with illumination and mirror box using the same
The present disclosure provides a mirror device with illumination comprising a transparent conductive substrate, an isolation layer, a mirror layer and a light emitting diode (LED) layer. The isolation layer, formed on a surface of the transparent conductive substrate, divides the surface of the transparent conductive substrate into at least one first region and at least one second region. The mirror layer formed on the transparent conductive substrate within the at least one first region, while the LED layer is formed on the transparent conductive substrate within the at least one second region, wherein the mirror layer and the LED layer are electrically isolated from each other. In another embodiment, the present disclosure further provides a mirror box having the mirror device with illumination disposed therein so that the mirror device can be easily carried and kept in the pocket, or purse of user. |
| US08672499B2 |
Flat panel display device, stereoscopic display device, plasma display device
The present invention provides a flat panel display device, which includes a backlight system and a display panel, wherein: the backlight system includes a light source, a light homogenization mechanism, and a back frame; the back frame carries the light source and the light homogenization mechanism, the light homogenization mechanism guiding light from the light source to a light incidence surface of the display panel; the back frame includes at least two primary assembling pieces. The at least two primary assembling pieces are joined to form a main frame structure of the back frame in which the at least two primary assembling pieces are joined with multiple space joining spots. The present invention also provides a stereoscopic display device and a plasma display device. The flat panel display device, the stereoscopic display device, and the plasma display device of the present invention have a simple structure and can reduce the expenditure of the back frame mold, and can also save the material used for back frame so as to lower down the cost, and also ensure the strength of the joining site of the back frame and at the same time spread the stress, thereby further ensuring the overall strength of the back frame meets the desired requirements. |
| US08672496B2 |
Socket supported disco mirror ball
A mirror ball adapted to engage the socket of a ceiling mounted electric light fixture in order to be suspended and powered therefrom. A tubular stem having a proximal portion threaded in the manner of an Edision screw is provided extending downward from the fixture to a lower base. A lightweight mirrored sphere or globe having a void through its (vertical) polar axis is rotatably engaged on the stem and retained in place by the lower base which houses power systems, a controller and a motor engaged to an annular gear at the lower pole of the mirrored sphere in order to slowly rotate the globe. A power supply is used to reduce line voltage to 12 v DC to drive the motor and operate one or more LED lighting elements directed at the mirrored surface and mounted at the ends of one or more arms radiating from the lower housing. |
| US08672491B2 |
Eyeguard with automatic diaphragm
An eyeguard for use on the eye-end of an optical instrument is provided having an instrument-end member adapted for connection to the optical instrument, an eye-end member adapted to interface with the periocular portion of the user's face, a hinge member disposed between the instrument-end and eye-end members having two flexible annular hinges, and a diaphragm comprising a plurality of segments attached to the interior of the hinge member between the annular hinges. The force of the user's eye pressing the eye-end member toward the instrument-end member deforms the annular hinges such that the normally closed diaphragm segments move to an open position, allowing light to pass through the eyeguard. |
| US08672489B2 |
Medical lens assemblies and sterile drapes with a lens assembly
Medical lens assemblies and sterile drapes with a lens assembly are presented herein. In one embodiment, a lens assembly includes an annular lens housing that is attachable to a medical drape. The lens housing is configured to releasably attach to a medical device, such as a surgical microscope. An annular lens cover holder is removably attachable to the lens housing. A lens cover for shielding the objective lens is pivotably hinged to the lens cover holder. In another embodiment, a drape assembly includes a flexible body sized to cover an optical device. A lens housing attached to the drape body is engageable with the optical device to attach proximate an objective lens thereof. A lens cover holder is removably attached to the lens housing to rotate about a first axis. A lens cover is mounted to the lens cover holder to pivot about a second, different axis. |
| US08672483B2 |
Method for adjusting color
A method for adjusting color, suitable for a three dimension (3D) projector, is provided. In the present invention, a plurality of segment ranges of a color wheel is covered one by one, and it is measured a color temperature corresponding to the color wheel after each of the segment ranges is covered. Then, each of the color temperatures is compared with a standard color temperature for choosing one of the color temperatures closest to the standard color temperature. And the segment range corresponding to the color temperatures closest to the standard color temperature is regarded as a correctional covering segment. |
| US08672482B2 |
Method and apparatus for communication between humans and devices
This invention relates to methods and apparatus for improving communications between humans and devices. The invention provides a method of modulating operation of a device, comprising: providing an attentive user interface for obtaining information about an attentive state of a user; and modulating operation of a device on the basis of the obtained information, wherein the operation that is modulated is initiated by the device. Preferably, the information about the user's attentive state is eye contact of the user with the device that is sensed by the attentive user interface. |
| US08672480B2 |
Ophthalmic photographing apparatus
The ophthalmic photographing apparatus includes an optical scanner for two-dimensionally scanning light and an optical coherence tomography device for obtaining a three-dimensional tomographic image of an examiner's eye. The apparatus also includes an observation optical system for obtaining a front observation image of the eye as a moving image and an observation optical system that obtain a front observation image of the examinee's eye as a moving image. The driving control unit controls the optical coherence tomography device based on a signal from an operation unit. A position on the examinee's eye where the tomographic image is picked up is changeable by using the moving image of the front observation image and the analysis map. |
| US08672471B2 |
Feeding apparatus
A feeding apparatus for roll paper that enables downsizing and a stable feeding of a printer pressurizes a roll paper shaft to press-contact with a feeding roller, and thereafter, drives the feeding roller to feed the paper, and urges a pick-up guide to contact an outer circumference of the roll paper. In a feeding mechanism for picking up the leading edge of the roll paper, a tip end of the pick-up guide rotates in a direction to widen a paper conveyance path as a remaining amount of the roll paper becomes less, and a part of the pick-up guide moves to a direction to approach the roll paper to be conveyed or a direction to urge the roll paper according to the rotation of the pick-up guide. |
| US08672467B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus includes: a conveyance unit conveying a recording medium; inkjet recording heads jetting ink droplets onto a recording medium surface while scanning in a recording direction intersecting a conveyance direction; a first image converter converting image data, which have been inputted, into ink data based on the color of ink; a second image converter converting the ink data into dot data on the basis of which each inkjet recording head jets the ink droplets; a drying unit disposed on a conveyance direction downstream side of the inkjet recording heads and drying the ink droplets while moving in a drying direction differing from the conveyance direction; and a drying unit movement controller deciding and controlling a moving speed of the drying unit on the basis of at least one of the inputted image data, the ink data, or the dot data. |
| US08672463B2 |
Bypass fluid circulation in fluid ejection devices
A fluid ejection device includes a fluid manifold, a substrate coupled to the fluid manifold, and a fluid distribution structure disposed between the fluid manifold and the substrate. The fluid manifold includes a fluid supply chamber and a fluid return chamber. The substrate defines a flow path including a flow path inlet for receiving fluid, a nozzle for ejecting fluid droplets, and a flow path outlet for channeling away un-ejected fluid. The fluid distribution structure includes a fluid supply channel including a supply inlet fluidically coupled to the fluid supply chamber and a supply outlet fluidically coupled to the flow path. The fluid distribution structure also includes a fluid bypass channel including a bypass inlet fluidically coupled to the fluid supply chamber, a bypass outlet fluidically coupled to the fluid return chamber, and a flow inhibitor between the bypass inlet and the bypass outlet providing a supplemental flow resistance to the fluid bypass channel. The flow inhibitor includes a convergent-divergent throat section. |
| US08672462B2 |
Ink supply device and image recording apparatus
There is provided an ink supply device including: a cartridge installing section configured to install the ink cartridge in a horizontal direction; an ink supply section configured to be fluid communication with an ink supply portion of the ink cartridge; a first sensor disposed in the ink cartridge installing section and positioned under the ink supply section in a vertical direction; and a first partitioning member partitioned the ink supply section and the sensor in the vertical direction. |
| US08672460B2 |
Systems and methods for transporting particles
Various particle transport systems and components for use in such systems are described. The systems utilize one or more traveling wave grids to selectively transport, distribute, separate, or mix different populations of particles. Numerous systems configured for use in two dimensional and three dimensional particle transport are described. |
| US08672459B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting head unit, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head includes nozzles for ejecting liquid; pressure generation chambers, each in fluid communication with one of the nozzles; and a manifold substrate with manifolds disposed therein. Each manifold supplies liquid to at least one of the pressure generation chambers. The liquid ejecting head also includes a head case with a piezoelectric element housing unit. Piezoelectric elements, for changing pressure of liquid within the pressure generation chambers, are provided in the piezoelectric element housing unit. The liquid ejecting head also includes a vibrating element for absorbing pressure changes in the liquid within the manifolds, cavities provided on the vibrating element at positions that correspond to positions of the manifolds, and an atmosphere exposure channel that fluidly connects one of the cavities to the atmosphere. At least one other one of the cavities is in fluid communication with the atmosphere exposure channel via the first cavity. |
| US08672457B2 |
Piezoelectric film and method of manufacturing same, piezoelectric device and liquid ejection apparatus
A piezoelectric film is constituted of a perovskite oxide represented as: Pb1+δ(ZrxTiy)1-a(MgbNb1-b)aOz, where δ and z are values within ranges where a perovskite structure is obtained and δ=0 and z=3 are standard, Pb is replaceable with another A site element in an amount of a range where the perovskite structure is obtained, b is a value in a range of 0.090≦b≦0.25, and a Nb ratio at a B site satisfies 0.13≦a×(1−b). |
| US08672454B2 |
Ink printhead having ceramic nozzle plate defining movable portions
An inkjet printhead includes a ceramic nozzle plate having a plurality of movable portions defined therein and a polymeric material covering the nozzle plate and the plurality of movable portions. |
| US08672451B2 |
Reduced gloss banding through low ink volume deposition per print pass
Improved output quality of a printer used in UV curable ink jet printing is achieved by minimizing or eliminating a print artifact referred to as gloss banding or tire tracking. A same or a similar number of nozzles as used in conventional printers is used to achieve a desired throughput, but the nozzles are arranged so that any given square inch of substrate to which ink is being applied receives a lower amount of ink. A longer effective print head is provided by arranging the print heads into a longer array, where the print heads are butted substantially end-to-end. As a result, the net throughput of the printer is the same as that of a conventional printer because the printer uses the same number of print heads, but the amount of ink that is applied to any given square inch is less on a pass. |
| US08672448B2 |
Wiper unit and liquid ejecting apparatus
A sun gear which is rotationally driving according to power which is transmitted from a driving motor, a planetary gear which can be displaced in the circumferential direction of the sun gear in a state of being engaged with the sun gear, and a winding-up gear which transmits a rotational driving power to a winding-up roller are provided, and the planetary gear is released from an engagement with a rack gear unit, rotates the winding-up roller by being engaged with the winding-up gear, and winds up a wiping member after the planetary gear moves a wiper holder in the wiping direction by being engaged with the rack gear unit of the wiper holder. |
| US08672440B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus including curl correcting device, liquid ejecting method including curl correcting process, and computer-readable media for liquid ejection and curl correcting
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid on recording media, an output tray that supports the recording media stacked thereon, a curl-correcting device, a detecting device, and a controller. The curl-correcting device performs curl-correction processing on the recording media, which reduces an amount of curl of the recording media. The detecting device detects information related to a stacking thickness of the recording media. The controller sets the curl-correcting device to perform the curl-correction processing on the recording media at a first processing level when the stacking thickness is greater than or equal to the threshold stacking thickness. The controller sets the curl correcting device to perform the curl-correction processing on the recording media at a second processing level when the stacking thickness is less than the threshold stacking thickness. The first processing level includes more curl-correction processing than the second processing level. |
| US08672436B2 |
Method and system for improved ink jet or printhead replacement
A system and method is provided for compensating for a faulty ink jet in a target printhead in an ink jet imaging system having a plurality of printheads arranged to span a maximum printing width that includes defining a typical printing width less than the maximum printing width and swapping the target printhead with a printhead situated in the margin outside the typical printing width. The system and method permits swapping the target printhead with a margin printhead that has a faulty ink jet provided that the location of the faulty ink jet in the margin printhead does not coincide or align with a faulty ink jet in printheads adjacent the target printhead. |
| US08672429B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a recessed handle portion for an extension portion
An image forming apparatus includes an output unit to which a recording medium on which an image has been formed is output, the output unit including an output unit body, and an extension portion that is disposed on the output unit body so as to be extendable from the output unit body in an output direction of the recording medium, the extension portion including a handle portion that is recessed in a direction away from a back surface of the recording sheet so as allow a finger to be hooked in a direction in which the extension portion is extended in the output direction of the recording medium, the back surface being a surface that is in contact with the output unit body, and a protrusion that protrudes toward the back surface of the recording medium from the extension portion. |
| US08672425B2 |
Cabinet structure assembly
A cabinet structure assembly includes a cabinet, an attachment cover and an attachment member. The attachment cover includes a top wall portion. The top wall portion has an engagement recess with a first engagement face and an end part. The attachment member includes a base plate and a top plate. The top plate has a top face and an engagement protrusion that protrudes relative to the top face. The engagement protrusion has a second engagement face and a guide face. The second engagement face faces the first engagement face of the engagement recess. The guide face is arranged such that the guide face gradually deforms the end part of the top wall portion of the attachment cover away from the top face of the top plate upon installation of the attachment member relative to the attachment cover. |
| US08672423B2 |
Rubber track
A rubber track having: an endless rubber elastic body 1; a plurality of cores 2 arranged at predetermined pitches in the rubber elastic body so as to extend in a width direction of the rubber elastic body; a reinforcing layer extending in the rubber elastic body so as to surround the cores 2; and a plurality of lugs 4 formed on an outer peripheral surface of the rubber elastic body 1 at predetermined intervals and acting on a road surface, the rubber track comprising; a thick wall rubber portion, located between the lugs on the outer peripheral surface of the rubber elastic body, that covers an end portion of each of the cores and communicates with lugs located therebefore and thereafter, wherein an inclined plane of the thick wall rubber portion facing obliquely outward whose thickness gradually decreases toward a side edge side of the rubber elastic body is coplanar with an inclined plane of each of the lugs on the side edge side of the rubber elastic body. |
| US08672420B2 |
System for evacuating gas from a brake booster
A system for evacuating gas from a brake booster of a motor vehicle includes: a first conduit adapted to be connected fluidly to the brake booster; an electric pump connected fluidly to the first conduit, and controllable to evacuate gas from the brake booster via the first conduit; a second conduit; an electric valve fluidly connecting the first and second conduits to each other; a mechanical pump connected fluidly to the second conduit, and adapted to be driven by a vehicle drive unit of the motor vehicle to evacuate gas from the brake booster via the first conduit, the electric valve, and the second conduit; and a control unit operatively associated with the electric pump and the electric valve, and configured to control operations of the electric pump and the electric valve according to a working state of the mechanical pump. |
| US08672418B2 |
Sealing structure for piston and piston pump and brake hydraulic pressure control device incorporating the structure
A sealing structure is provided wherein an annular groove formed in a pump cylinder of a piston pump receives therein a seal ring made of a synthetic resin material and having an inner circumferential surface fluid-tightly contacting an outer circumferential surface of the pump piston and an O-ring arranged on the outer circumferential side of the seal ring and urging the seal ring radially inward. The seal ring is formed at its axial end portions with flange portions for preventing the O-ring from coming off. In the state that the seal ring and the O-ring are fitted in the annular groove, the flange portions do not receive a load from the O-ring, and a surface pressure which the seal ring applies to the outer circumferential surface of the piston at an axial center portion thereof is set to be higher than surface pressures which it applies to the outer circumferential surface of the piston at axial end portions thereof. |
| US08672415B2 |
Advancing longwall system for surface mining
A surface mining system for removing material from a mining face generally includes a conveyor extending substantially parallel to the mining face, a miner supported by and moveable along the conveyor, and a conveyor translation device associated with the conveyor and operable to move the conveyor and the miner toward the mining face. A method for advancing a surface mining longwall system generally includes moving the longwall shearer along a face conveyor, operating load translation devices to move the face conveyor and the longwall shearer toward the mining face, resetting a first group of load translation devices, and then resetting a second group of load translation devices. A load translation device generally includes an actuator, a ground drilling device coupled to and moveable with a portion of the actuator, and a frame coupled to and moveable with another portion of the actuator. |
| US08672414B2 |
Method for controlling longwall mining operations
A method for controlling a longwall mining operation, including a face conveyor, at least one extraction machine, and a hydraulic shield support, in underground coal mining. Using inclination sensors disposed on at least three of the four main components of each shield support frame, such as floor skid, gob shield, support connection rods, and gob-side region of the top canopy, the inclination of the shield components relative to horizontal is ascertained in the direction of step. In a computer, the ascertained inclination data is compared with base data stored in the computer that defines the geometrical orientation of the components and their movement during stepping. From the comparison, a respective height of the shield support frame, at the forward end of the top canopy, is calculated as a measure for the face opening. |
| US08672409B2 |
Adjustable vehicle head restraint
A vehicle seat with an adjustable head restraint assembly is provided with a controller configured to receive an instruction signal to actuate a head restraint from a use position to a stowed position. A detection signal indicates whether an object is within a predetermined range of the head restraint. A stow signal is transmitted to an actuator to actuate the head restraint to the stowed position in response to the instruction signal and in response to the detection signal indicating that an object is not within the predetermined range of the head restraint. A use signal is transmitted to the actuator to maintain the head restraint in the use position in response to the instruction signal and in response to the detection signal indicating that an object is within the predetermined range of the head restraint. |
| US08672408B2 |
Hinge mechanism and vehicle seat comprising such a mechanism
Hinge mechanism comprising first and second frames rotatably mounted relative to one another, the first frame comprising a collet, a control member rotatably mounted in the collet of the first frame and controlling a relative rotation between the two frames, and a brake unit comprising an operating member connected to the control member with angular play. The brake unit is housed in the collet of the first frame and fitted with a braking member adapted to brake the control member when the operating member is not activated and to allow the operating member to rotationally drive the control member. |
| US08672407B2 |
Hinge mechanism and vehicle seat comprising such a mechanism
hinge mechanism comprising first and second rotating frames and a control member mounted rotatably in a neck of the first frame, such control member being capable of controlling the relative rotation of the frames. A metal retaining part is held in the neck by pressing, and the control member is mounted rotatably independently of the retaining part and abuts against such retaining part. |
| US08672404B2 |
Profile for fastening a cover on a vehicular seat headrest
A profile (9) which can be connected to a cover (4) serves to fasten the cover (4) on a supporting body (2). According to the invention, it is provided that the profile has a recess (17) for receiving a connecting region, in particular a seam (6), of cover segments (5.1, 5.2) of an at least two-piece cover. |
| US08672403B2 |
Child seat
The present disclosure relates to a child seat for rearward-facing use in a vehicle. It comprises a back portion and a squab portion. The back portion comprises a force-receiving assembly, located at the shoulder region, which is of a more rigid material than a main portion of the back portion, the main portion being of a light-weight material. The force-receiving assembly comprises a first portion arranged at the first side of the back portion providing an anchor point for a shoulder portion of a child safety belt arrangement. The force-receiving assembly further comprises a second portion arranged at the second side of the back portion providing an anchor point for a child seat fixation means. The disclosure further relates to a child seat arrangement, a kit of parts and a vehicle comprising the child seat. |
| US08672399B2 |
Vehicle seat having an adjustable head restraint
A vehicle seat assembly for supporting an occupant having a seat bottom, a seat back connected to the seat bottom and a reclining mechanism configured to adjustably position the seat back relative to the seat bottom. A head restraint assembly adjustably connected to the seat back includes a headrest and one or more guides connected to and cooperating with the seat back to position the head restraint adjacent an occupant's head. A headrest adjustment mechanism for adjustably positioning the headrest relative to the seat bottom includes a locking member that releasably engages the one or more guides and a cable that cooperates with the release mechanism and the locking member to adjustably position the head restraint when the release mechanism is activated. |
| US08672390B1 |
Aerodynamic drag reducer for a trailer
An aerodynamic reducer for a trailer comprising one or more sheet members which are secured to the lower ends of at least some of the cross-members positioned beneath the floor of the trailer. The sheet members enclose the space between at least some of the cross-members. |
| US08672389B2 |
Retractable top for an open vehicle
In one embodiment of a retractable top for a vehicle having an open top, including a left and a right rear roll bar projecting vertically from the rear floor above the height of the vertical walls, the roll bars projecting forward to join a transverse roll bar and forming a roll cage, the retractable top includes support members attached to two of the three horizontal sides. The retractable top includes linkage arms attached to the support members configured to move from a retracted position to an extended position, linkage arms including a bow arm that has a first tapered interconnection aperture, the first tapered interconnection aperture shaped to receive a first connector and recess the first connector such that an end of the first connector is flush with a first surface of the bow arm. The retractable top includes an enclosure material oriented to cover the open top when extended. |
| US08672387B1 |
Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle according to the present invention includes a chassis, a ROPS surrounding a space on the chassis, a seat or a seat row arranged in the space, a cargo bed provided in a rear part of the chassis, and one or more resin storage boxes provided between the seat or the seat row and the cargo bed in the front and rear direction in the space, the storage boxes being integrated with parts of vehicle-side covers covering side parts of the space. |
| US08672380B2 |
Handhold assembly
A handhold assembly for a machine chassis includes a handhold and a mounting structure. The handhold includes a gripping member, an elongate member extending from the gripping member, and a locking member provided at a distal portion of the elongate member. Further, an adapter provided at a distal end of the elongate member. The mounting structure is configured to be attached with the machine chassis and includes a first opening and a second opening. The first and the second openings configured to removably receive the elongate member and the adapter, respectively. Further, a slot provided on the first opening, the slot configured to engage with the locking member of the handhold. |
| US08672377B2 |
Eating utensil
An eating utensil has first and second elongated stick members extending parallel to each other and a U-shaped connector attaching the stick members together. Each of the stick members has a base portion extending in a first plane, a intermediate portion extending in a second plane, and an end portion extending in a third plane. The connector located in the first plane and attaches together the base portion of the first stick member with the base portion of the second stick member. Both of the stick members are thus curved to facilitate handling and use of the utensil. |
| US08672373B1 |
Method and apparatus for rotating spatula
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for a handheld, pistol-grip type rotatable spatula having a pair of reciprocating spatulas on the front end which captures a food item, holding it in place between the pair of spatulas, and then rotating the food item approximately 180 degrees so that it will allow the user to easily turn a food item over, which item might be for example, on a cooking grill. The apparatus allows the user to turn or flip the food item over and gently lay the food item down without having to twist the wrist of the user. The apparatus allows a simple motion of the rear pistol grip type handle to be squeezed and compressed in the hand of a user so that the pair of spatulas holding the food come together holding the food therein which then allows the food to be rotated. |
| US08672369B2 |
Door lock indicator arm
A lock indicator arm for a door having a latch mechanism includes a rod portion connectable on a first end to the latch mechanism, and a knob portion located on a second end of the rod portion opposite the first end and formed as a one-piece structure with the rod portion. The rod portion may include a spring region configured to bias the rod portion against either an interior panel, an exterior panel, or both panels. The knob portion and the rod portion of the lock indicator arm may be formed from a matrix material and a filler material. The filler material may include a plurality of fibers, and the plurality of fibers may be oriented substantially longitudinally along the rod portion. The rod portion of the lock indicator arm may have one of an H-shape cross section and a W-shape cross section. |
| US08672368B2 |
Electromechanical compression latch
The present invention is directed to improvements in latch design. The illustrated embodiment of the present invention is a rotary pawl latch with the capability to provide a compressive force between the first member and the second member. The illustrated embodiment of the present invention is of an electromechanical type. The control circuit of the latch detects when a striker attached to one member, for example a door, has moved the pawl to a first latched position. A motor is then activated that drives the pawl to a second latched position to provide compression between the first member and a second member, for example a door frame. |
| US08672367B2 |
Exhaust system interlocking mechanism
An interlocking mechanism includes an entry channel and a rotational channel positioned adjacent to entry channel. A locking bead is positioned in the rotational channel at a position in the channel defined to engage a mating element in a locking lug on a mating component when the lug is positioned adjacent to an end of the channel. The entry channel may include a face increasing in height from the entry portion to the end portion. |
| US08672366B2 |
Pipe coupling arrangement
A coupling arrangement having external threads carried on a first pipe element. A second pipe element carries a radially movable locking member with external locking profiles, and a connection sleeve having internal threads that are threaded onto external threads and internal locking profiles that engage with the external locking profiles. The connection sleeve is moved in a first axial direction towards the first pipe element by rotation on the external threads while the internal locking profiles are in an intermediate engagement with the external locking profiles, until the movement is limited by abutting faces of the internal and external locking profiles. At least one of the abutting faces exhibits an inclination resulting in a pull of the connection sleeve towards an axial direction opposite of the first axial direction when the external locking profiles are moved radially. |
| US08672356B2 |
Seatbelt device for wheelchair
An engagement fixture of a shoulder belt is connected to and supported by an engagement buckle disposed in a vehicle interior. When a platform is positioned in a getting in/out position in a vehicle exterior, the engagement fixture of the shoulder belt can be temporarily connected to a temporary fastening fixture provided to the platform. To the contrary, when the platform is positioned in a loading position in a vehicle interior, a connection condition of the engagement fixture of the shoulder belt can be changed from a temporary connection of the fastening fixture to a securely supportable connection of an engagement buckle in the vehicle interior. Thus, it is possible to simplify a belt attaching operation after a wheelchair is loaded in a vehicle while a columnar support member used in the conventional platform is abolished. |
| US08672355B2 |
Frame longitudinal beam structure for chassis frames of utility vehicles, in particular of trucks and/or buses
A frame longitudinal beam structure for chassis frames of utility vehicles, in particular for trucks and/or buses, has at least one frame longitudinal beam of modular construction extending in the vehicle longitudinal direction when in the mounted state. The beam has a base profile extending over substantially the entire length of the frame longitudinal beam and having a plate-shaped central web which, as viewed in cross section, extends between opposite frame longitudinal beam regions, such as between upper and lower flanges. The central web is substantially rectilinear along the longitudinal extent of the base profile. Supplemental profiles formed by separate components are attached to the central web in areal abutment. A plurality of supplemental profiles are attached to the central web such that, in the direction of extent of the longitudinal beam, at least two frame longitudinal beam regions of different profile cross section are formed. |
| US08672349B2 |
Airbag
An airbag module including an inflatable airbag and an inflator configured to provide gas for inflating the airbag. The airbag includes a vent opening in a surface of the airbag to allow inflation gas to escape the airbag. A tether is aligned against the surface of the airbag adjacent the opening. The tether includes a first tether opening and wherein the tether is configured so that the first tether opening and the vent opening are aligned prior to the full deployment of the airbag. During deployment of the airbag the position of the tether changes so that the first tether opening and vent opening are no longer aligned. |
| US08672348B2 |
Gas-generating devices with grain-retention structures and related methods and systems
Gas-generating devices with grain-retention structures and related methods and systems are described. In particular, gas-generating devices having at least one retention structure fixed to a frame and positioned between adjacent gas-generant grains arranged in a longitudinal stack. Fire suppression systems comprising such gas-generating devices are also described. Additionally, methods of manufacturing gas-generating devices, as well as methods of generating a gas and methods of suppressing a fire utilizing such gas-generating devices are described. |
| US08672347B2 |
Integrated airbag restraint
A restraint system for a seat is provided and may include a first portion formed from a first material and having a first end fixed for movement with the seat and a second end movable relative to the seat. A second portion may be integral with or attached to the first portion, may be formed from the first material, and may be operable between a pre-deployed state and an inflated state. |
| US08672346B2 |
Airbag device
An airbag device includes an airbag, an inflator and a plurality of contact projections for horn switch which are held by a retainer, such that switching operation can be performed with respect to a steering wheel. When the contact projections for the horn switch are brought into contact with contact receiving portions of the steering wheel in response to a tilt operation according to a press by a driver, the horn are blown. Horn switch contacts are respectively provided in a plurality of contact members so as to be spaced from each other in a predetermined configuration, and each contact member is electrically connected to each other via the inflator. |
| US08672336B2 |
Automatic scooter unlocking mechanism
The automatic scooter unlocking mechanism is an improvement to existing folding kick scooter designs whereby vertical movement of a telescoping handlebar automatically causes rotation, and a corresponding unlocking, of a scooter footboard latch. The inventive mechanism places an extension on to the rotating handle of the footboard latch and places the distal end of the extension in such a location so as to contact a protuberance located on the sliding portion of the telescoping handlebar. During contact, the extension is deflected and the handle of the footboard latch rotates and unlocks, allowing for free rotation of the scooter footboard between folded and unfolded states. The inventive mechanism can be integral to a kick scooter design or can take the form of a system that can be installed on to a pre-existing kick scooter in an aftermarket fashion. |
| US08672330B2 |
Sealing arrangement
A sealing arrangement, which is particularly suitable for flat flange connections, has an annular, metallic base body (1). Connected to the metallic base body (1) at both sides are soft material supports (2). The base body (1) has ring teeth (3,4) which run around radially at the inside and/or at the outside. The ring teeth (3,4), in the installed state, permit punctiform metallic contact and also have a spring characteristic. The spring characteristic of the ring teeth (3,4) is selected such that, in a first embodiment, after the removal of the seal from the flanges, the tooth height corresponds substantially to the height before the installation. The region of the base body (1) which is covered by the soft material supports (2) also has angular ring teeth (5). The ring teeth (5) have a spring characteristic, wherein after the removal of the seal, the ring teeth (5) spring back to at least 75% of the original state. In a further embodiment, the ring teeth (5) which are covered by the soft material support (2) are partially plastically deformable. |
| US08672329B2 |
Lift mechanism of tile-based game machine
A lift mechanism of a tile-based game machine is installed on a table. The lift mechanism includes a lift plate. One end of the lift plate is coupled to the table, and another end of the lift plate is a movable end. The movable end of the lift plate is provided with a door, and the door is provided with a restoring spring. A lift bracket is provided under the lift plate. A crank is provided under the lift bracket to cooperate with the lift bracket. An electric motor is connected with the crank. The present invention has a simple configuration and the tiles can be ascended quickly and the failure rate is low. |
| US08672328B2 |
Word-forming game and method
A method of playing a word forming game comprises distributing a predetermined number of tiles to a set of players so as to form a hand of play associated with each player. Each tile has a character value associated with the tile, and at least one tile has a special feature value. The players form words on a playing surface, and the words comprise one or more tiles from a player's hand of play and one or more tiles already on the playing surface. Exemplary special feature values instruct players to skip a turn, to reverse the order of play, or to redistribute tiles. Each tile has a nesting portion and a nested portion. The nesting portion is characterized a concavity into which another playing tile may be nested and the nested portion is characterized by a convex edge. |
| US08672327B2 |
Global property trading board game
A global property trading board game having a game board with a continuous travel path divided into stations being associated with respective countries and having markings, including economic values representative of the respective countries' gross domestic product. Movement of a game-piece along the travel path is determined by a chance-controlled device. Each player is allocated a line of credit represented by international business cards in various monetary denominations. The respective players are further assigned a global region constituting a trade-bloc of countries. A player may acquire the assets of any country corresponding to the station in which the game-piece is located, assuming the assets are not owned by another player, by payment of the designated economic value utilizing the player's international business cards. When a competing player's game-piece is located within a station wherein the assets are owned by another player the competing player must pay a tax to that player. Several of the stations are keyed to playing cards that impose either a monetary penalty, or a monetary reward; other stations affect advancement of the respective player's game-piece. The player who acquires all or most of the countries' assets within its assigned trade-bloc and has successfully defended its home sovereignty is the victor. |
| US08672326B2 |
Smarty smart sticks
A game is described which includes playing media such as sticks or cards. The playing media have a first side with an identifying indicia and a second side with a question and its corresponding answer. The game consists of players collecting sticks for providing correct answers to the questions on the media. The object of the game is to collect the most media in a specified period. |
| US08672324B2 |
Printing apparatus and printed-material processing apparatus
A stack state of a plurality of trays is collectively determined and is notified in steps. A printing apparatus includes an image forming unit configured to form an image on a sheet and create a printed material, a plurality of storage units each configured to store the printed material created by the image forming unit, a sorter unit configured to output the printed material to the plurality of storage units, and a determining unit configured to determine whether the plurality of storage units are in a nearly full state in which printed material is stored in almost all of the plurality of storage units. |
| US08672323B2 |
Transportation device of a sheet and corresponding use
A substrate sheet transporting device is provided. The device includes a first transfer cylinder defining a first axis, a circumferential direction and a transverse direction and a transfer belt (74) extending around the first transfer cylinder. The first transfer cylinder includes first openings for the passage of a gas and the transfer belt includes second openings for the passage of a gas. The transfer belt and the first transfer cylinder define an alignment position in which the second passage openings are aligned with the first passage openings. The transfer device includes a device for adjusting the position of the transfer belt relative to the first transfer cylinder by bringing the transfer belt toward the alignment position. The invention is applicable to cutting devices of rotary printing presses. |
| US08672322B2 |
Media curling apparatus and systems including tri-roll media curler
A tri-roll curler apparatus includes an inlet roll, and exit roll, and a penetrating roll. The three rolls have substantially equal radii. At least one of the penetrating roll, and the inlet and exit rolls may be movable. Distances between the penetrating roll and the inlet roll, and the penetrating roll and the exit roll are substantially equal. |
| US08672321B2 |
Media path re-phasing
A method of controlling the average sheet velocities in the separate paths in a parallel architecture to prevent sheet collision and provide for sheet arrival in the proper order at the sheet merger point(s) in the media path. Modifying the travel time of the sheets, or re-phasing strategy, at various points along the media path ensure that sheet collision is avoided even at maximum capacity. Adjusting the velocity of the sheets allow for the printer to run at maximum capacity without jamming and collision of the sheets running therethrough. |
| US08672320B2 |
Recording-material transport apparatus and recording-material transport method
A recording-material transport apparatus includes a retracting member that moves at a speed lower than a transport speed of a recording material transported from an upstream side in a transport direction, to a downstream side in the transport direction along a transport path for the recording material, and that retracts from the transport path after a leading end of the recording material contacts with the retracting member, a first transport member that transports the recording material from the upstream side in the transport direction toward the retracting member, and a second transport member that further transports the recording material in contact with the retracting member to the downstream side. After the leading end of the recording material contacts with the retracting member, without being paused, transport of the recording material with the first transport member is continued to deliver the recording material to the second transport member. |
| US08672318B2 |
Automatic document conveying device and image forming apparatus including the same
Provided is an automatic document conveying device, including: a document feeding portion that feeds a document from a document stacking tray; a conveying portion that conveys the document which is fed, to a document reading portion; a discharge portion that discharges the document after being read to a discharge tray; a branching guide that switches a conveying path so that a second surface is read after a first surface of the document is read; and a switchback portion including a switchback roller pair for sending the document to the conveying portion again after the conveying path is switched by the branching guide, in which a switch of the conveying path by the branching guide and open/close of a nip of the switchback roller pair are performed in one drive portion. |
| US08672317B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and method of controlling the apparatus, and storage medium
A sheet count at which printed sheets are stacked on a sheet stacking unit is received from a user. It is controlled to divide the printed sheets into sheets at the sheet count received from the user and stack the printed sheets on the sheet stacking unit. |
| US08672314B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus
A sheet stacking apparatus includes an alignment member to align a sheet stacked on a stacking tray in a width direction perpendicular to a direction in which the sheet is discharged. When stacking a plurality of sheets on the stacking tray, the sheet stacking apparatus lowers the stacking tray, so that a predetermined distance is maintained between the top surface sheet and a sheet discharge port. If the stacking tray is lowered to a predetermined position while the alignment unit is executing an alignment operation at a first position, the sheet stacking apparatus lowers the alignment member to a second position lower than the first position and causes the alignment member to execute the alignment operation at the second position. |
| US08672310B2 |
Work holder
A work holder which is adapted to hold a workpiece firmly in place for machining operations with respect to a machine tool. The workpiece is fashioned with a dovetail protuberance, which protuberance is designed to affix the workpiece to the work holder to the machining operations. Once the machining is completed, the dovetail protuberance may be removed in any convenient manner. Thus, the finished product may not then exhibit the former protuberance. |
| US08672304B2 |
Anti-vibration device
An anti-vibration device includes a tubular first attachment member connected to either a vibration generating section or a vibration receiving section; a second attachment member connected to the other of the vibration generating section and the vibration receiving section; a first rubber elastic body elastically interconnecting the first and second attachment members; a liquid containing a first liquid and a second liquid which are insoluble in each other, the second liquid having a smaller surface tension than the first liquid, and the second liquid in the liquid weighing less than the first liquid in the liquid; a partition member partitioning the inside of the first attachment member into a main liquid chamber and a sub liquid chamber, the main liquid chamber having a first partition wall and having a portion of the liquid enclosed therein, an inner volume of the main liquid chamber changing due to deformation of the first rubber elastic body, a part of the first partition wall being formed of the first rubber elastic body; and the sub liquid chamber having a second partition wall and having a portion of the liquid enclosed therein, at least a part of the second partition wall being adapted to be deformable, the liquid being enclosed in the main liquid chamber and the sub liquid chamber; and an orifice passage provided between the outer peripheral surface of the partition member and the inner peripheral surface of the first attachment member so as to communicate the main liquid chamber and the sub liquid chamber. |
| US08672302B2 |
Shock and vibration damper
The invention relates to a type of shock and vibration isolator which has almost identical rigidity and damping properties in any translatory direction, wherein the device is disposed between a reference object (A) which is subjected to vibrations and shocks, and a means (B) which is only to be subjected to translatory damped vibrations and shocks in all directions, where a center bar (2) and wire rope holders (3) are designed for attachment to any one of the reference objects (A) or (B), characterized in that the center bar (2) and the wire rope holders (3) are rigidly interconnected to three or more independent wire rope series (4), each of which is formed of two or more wire rope loops where the configuration of a wire rope series (4) is based on essentially as many wire rope loops with opposite geometrical angles of inclination (A1 and A2), each wire rope series forming a symmetry along a center axis relative to an unloaded neutral position for the isolator and where the three or more wire rope series (4) are symmetrically arranged about the center axis in an about-axis symmetry principle relative to the radial neutral position of an unloaded isolator, such that the two symmetry principles together give almost identical translatory properties in all directions for damping of shock and vibration between the reference objects (A) and (B). |
| US08672300B2 |
Fuel evaporator
A modified carburetor allows the fuel and air input ratio to be adjusted by varying the opening sizes in the carburetor. After the proper air opening size is determined and set, the fuel jet setting can be adjusted for cold starts and/or to fine tune the engine. The air opening setting may remain the same, regardless of engine speed. This allows the engine to create a vacuum of near zero to five inches of mercury or more, depending on the speed of the engine. A small air input opening setting may be used for the engine to create this vacuum. The higher the vacuum created, the better the fuel efficiency. The fuel from the modified carburetor then flows through a heated evaporator chamber that maintains this vacuum. This enhances and completes the evaporation process as the fuel passes through and over metal shavings toward the engine. |
| US08672295B2 |
Gate valve
A gate valve comprises a valve body having an internal working fluid passage and an internal gate chamber extending transverse to the working fluid passage. In addition, the gate valve comprises a gate disposed in the internal gate chamber and movable within the gate chamber between a closed position obstructing fluid flow through the working fluid passage and an open position allowing fluid flow through the working fluid passage. Further, the gate valve comprises an internal sealing arrangement coaxially disposed in the working fluid passage and extending between the valve body and the gate to form a barrier between the internal working fluid passage and the gate chamber. The internal sealing arrangement includes a frustoconical metal sealing surface adapted to sealingly engage an opposed mating frustoconical metal sealing surface on the valve body to form a first tapered metal-to-metal seal between the sealing arrangement and the valve body. |
| US08672292B2 |
Magnetic valve
A valve comprises a magnetic drive and a core which is arranged therein to be movable in an axial direction, and which serve to open and close a valve seat. At least two flat springs stacked upon each other are arranged on an axial end of the core. |
| US08672290B2 |
Self aligning spherical backseat assembly for a valve
A gate valve assembly having a body, a gate, a stem, and a backseat for sealing between the stem and the body. The backseat is an annular member with a complementary surface on its inside that fits over a spherically shaped section of the stem; thus allowing the backseat to rotate and pivot with respect to the stem. An outer surface of the backseat is beveled for sealingly engaging a stem passage formed through the body. A flex member is provided that is for sealing a surface adjacent the backseat. The flex member can form a seal between the backseat member and the stem or between an annular retainer and the backseat. |
| US08672286B2 |
Adjustable wall hanger
An adjustable wall hanger includes (1) an elongated bracket with a front surface including markings and a rear surface including serrations, (2) mounting members near each end of the elongated bracket, (3) an elongated slot, (4) a hook assembly including a hook member secured by a hook fastener, including a hook portion distal from a clamp portion including a planar section, jaws, and a cam, and the hook fastener includes a base with a post, serrated teeth, and lugs extending from the post, the post including detents between the base and lugs, wherein closed configuration includes the hook member against the front surface to lock the hook assembly in position, and open configuration includes the planar surface against the front surface so that the hook assembly is movable, and the lugs fit within the jaws to secure the hook member to the fastener and to the elongated bracket. |
| US08672285B1 |
Document holder
A document holder for a computer holds multiple documents at a single time and provides easy visual access for up to three documents concurrently. The document holder attaches to a computer and has a full extension position during the time the document holder is in use. Also, the document holder has a stored position which allows it to be compactly stored on the computer when not in use. The stored position allows the document holder to remain attached to, but not interfere with, the use of the computer. The document holder has mount clamps which provide easy attachment and removal to and from the computer. |
| US08672284B2 |
Gear with at least two gearing stages, a linear actuator including such a gear and a table leg including such a linear actuator
Gear, preferably for actuators of the type, where an electric motor (1) through the gear drives an activation element, such as a pivotal arm or a longitudinally movable element, and where the gear has at least two gearing stages. The first stage is constituted by a worm drive with a worm—(11; 13a, 13b) and the subsequent gearing stage is constituted by a crown and bevel wheel (23; 16a, 16b). The crown wheel faces towards the worm drive and has a power take-off (24, 27) in extension of or in all essentials in extension of the worm (11) or parallel thereto. The bevel wheel (16a, 16b) is with its axis of rotation arranged perpendicular in relation to the axis of rotation of the worm (11), and the worm wheel (13a, 13b) is in drive connection with the bevel wheel (16a, 16b) through a gear train (14a, 15a; 14b; 15b). Thus a relatively compact transmission with a high gearing is achieved, and by having worm wheels, toothed gearing and bevel and crown wheels of plastic the transmission is in addition silent. A good tooth mesh between bevel wheel and crown wheel is particularly important. The gear may be used in a linear actuator which again may be used in a height adjustable table leg. |
| US08672279B2 |
Reversible ladder-mounted support and tray
A reversible ladder-mounted support and tray has a bracket designed to be removably affixed to the combination of a rail of a ladder and over a rung just adjacent to the rail. A first fitting is provided that overlies the rail and a second fitting overlies the rung. Concerning the second fitting overlying the rung, in fact, two such fittings are also provided that are essentially back-to-back. In this way, the support may be removably installed on either of the opposed rails of the ladder so that the support can extend laterally to either side of the ladder. Attached to the first fitting designed to overlie the rail is an elongated rod to which is mounted an elongated tube or sleeve having a split and a locking mechanism. The split allows the tube to slide freely over the rod and the locking mechanism may be engaged to narrow the split to lock the position and orientation of the tube thereon. A limit stop mechanism may be employed between the rod and tube or sleeve to limit the degree of rotation of the tube with respect to the rod. |
| US08672273B2 |
Rail car sensor network
A rail car sensor network, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, includes at least one rail car having a main body portion including a first and section, a second end section and an intermediate portion. The rail car network further includes a sensor assembly mounted to the rail car. The sensor assembly includes at least one sensor positioned to detect a rail car parameter, and a wireless communication device configured to transmit data corresponding to the rail car parameter. A receiver assembly, mounted remote from the at least one rail car, includes a wireless communication monitor configured to receive the data corresponding to the rail car parameter from the wireless communication device. |
| US08672268B2 |
Oblique panel at the rear of a central box of an aircraft fuselage
An aircraft structure includes a wing spar (10), with orbital frames (24, 24′, 24″) arranged in transverse planes, right and left horizontal spars (26) connected to the wing spar (10) at the upper panel (14) of the spar respectively to the right and to the left of the spar, and for each right or left horizontal spar (26), a triangular panel (50) that includes a wall (60), a first edge arranged at the horizontal spar (26), a second side arranged at the wing spar (10), and a third side at which a first rectilinear oblique reinforcement (62) connecting the horizontal spar (26) and the wing spar (10) is provided, characterized in that the triangular panel (50) includes at least one second rectilinear oblique reinforcement (64) that connects the horizontal spar (26) and the wing spar (10). |
| US08672267B2 |
Toilet arrangement for a vehicle
A toilet arrangement for a vehicle includes a first toilet compartment, an adjacent second toilet compartment and a partition wall situated between the first toilet compartment and the second toilet compartment, wherein the partition wall is movably supported and designed for being transferred into an open position, in which the partition between the first toilet compartment and the second toilet compartment is removed. This makes it possible to convert two relatively small toilet compartments into a larger toilet compartment that is suitable for use by persons with limited mobility. |
| US08672266B2 |
Overhead bin for use on both sides in an aircraft
An overhead bin for use on both sides in a passenger cabin of an aircraft, includes a first baggage compartment and a second baggage compartment, a first opening and a second opening for loading items into the first baggage compartment and into the second baggage compartment, and a partition for dividing the first baggage compartment from the second baggage compartment. The first baggage compartment and the second baggage compartment differ from each other in their shape and/or alignment. With several overhead bins, the alignment of a larger and a smaller baggage bin can alternate so that adequate bin space for stowing hand baggage is available to passengers in the center seats. |
| US08672260B2 |
Single plane mount system for gas turbine engine
A mounting system for a gas turbine engine assembly includes a plurality of mounting links attached the gas turbine engine along a single plane transverse to the engine centerline for separating the loads from the core engine. |
| US08672258B1 |
Power transmission for aircraft flight testing
Systems and methods for transferring power through an aircraft window and thereby powering temporary externally mounted equipment, such as flight test instrumentation, without cutting or drilling holes in the airplane to run wire for a flight test or experiment. One embodiment uses a light source and a photovoltaic cell to transfer power from inside to outside the aircraft. Another embodiment uses an RF source and a rectenna to transfer power from inside to outside the aircraft. |
| US08672257B2 |
Centrally-holed paper roll with reinforcing element and method of manufacturing said roll
A roll of sheet product, in particular of tissue paper, with a central hole along its winding axis includes a cylindrical reinforcing element onto which the paper is wound. The reinforcing element includes at least one ring joined to the innermost turn of the roll, with a width less than the width of the roll and provided with a means of extracting the ring by pulling substantially along the axis of the roll. |
| US08672256B2 |
Print sheet supplying shaft device, supplying method of the print sheet and printer for the print sheet
A print sheet supplying shaft device and a supplying method of the print sheet and a printer for the print sheet which is capable of stably transferring the print sheet 5 along a transfer route, to be capable of maintaining the print position accuracy of the print sheet 5 at a predefined level.A roll supply shaft (25) protrudes at outer surfaces of a roll holding member (22) holding the rolled print sheet (5). Constant friction force is applied to the surface of the roll supply shaft (25) by a shaft clamping member (23). An urging member (24) provides a load resisting the feeding movement of the print sheet (5) to the roll supply shaft (25) by urging the shaft clamping member (23) towards the roll supply shaft (25). |
| US08672255B2 |
Pre-cut wiping material dispensing apparatus
A wipe material dispensing machine includes a housing forming a receptacle with a back plate, a horizontal lower wall, side walls, and an articulated lockable cover. The inner face of the cover has a protruding curved member. A device, articulated relative to the housing, fulfils the functions of loading, guiding and preventing creasing of the pre-cut strip of material which is pulled so that it can be removed from the forward, lower part of the machine. The device includes a raised curved element surrounding the member on the cover when the cover is closed. The element and member being concentric and leaving room for the pulled pre-cut strip of material to pass through. The pre-cut wipe material is wound on a reel or accordion pleated, and the lower part of the machine includes, at the point where the material emerges, opposite-facing limit stops. |
| US08672252B2 |
Seat belt retractor with sensor cutoff
A self-locking belt retractor in particular for motor vehicles with a vehicle-sensitive and a webbing-sensitive control system for the blocking device of the belt retractor having an operatable toothed lock washer in a cased gearing. |
| US08672249B2 |
Herb grinder
A herb grinder includes a metal sheet having a first surface and an opposite second surface. the sheet being configured to include, on at least one of the surfaces, a plurality of grooves extending parallel with one another and spaced apart from one another, wherein the grooves and at least one of the surfaces, a plurality of grooves extending parallel with one another and spaced apart from one another, wherein the grooves and said at least one of the surfaces define a square wave shape having flat valleys and flat peaks, wherein the flat valleys are roughened by a process of photochemical etching. A plurality of holes of a first type, extending from a peak to the bottom surface of the metal sheet, and a plurality of holes of a second type extending from a valley to the bottom surface of the metal sheet. The metal sheet may include an opening adjacent an edge of the sheet, and a flexible link may be fastened to the metal sheet through the opening. |
| US08672246B2 |
Method for purifying graphene powder
An easy and effective method for purifying graphene powder by removing magnetic impurities, wherein magnetic impurities are incorporated during the process of fabricating the graphene powder, is provided. The method for purifying graphene powder, the method including: (1) ball-milling a graphite material to form graphene powder; (2) dispersing the graphene powder in a solvent to form a suspension; and (3) separating magnetic impurities during stirring the suspension, by using a magnet, Wherein the magnetic impurities were incorporated into the graphene powder during ball-milling from the balls and dispersed in the suspension. |
| US08672245B2 |
Edible fungi
An aqueous formulation comprising edible fungal particles especially consisting substantially of fungal mycelia is described. The ingredient may be combined with other ingredients to produce a wide range of foodstuffs or food ingredients including desserts (e.g. yoghurt), reconstitutable drinks or soup and extruded foodstuffs (e.g. savoury snack foods). Foodstuffs prepared may have medical applications (e.g. for treatment of joint mobility disorders, reducing fat uptake, lowering cholesterol, immune function stimulation, use on a pre-biotic and/or for affecting satiety). |
| US08672244B2 |
Jet former
A jet former (1), which can be fitted into the water outlet (2) of a sanitary outlet fitting and has at least one homogenizing device (3) with a multiplicity of throughflow holes (4), which are respectively enclosed by flow guiding walls (5). The jet former (1) has a greater jet width (1) in comparison with the jet depth (t) to create a flat water jet, by a flow guide (6) that tapers in a nozzle-like manner, at least in a partial region in the direction of throughflow, being arranged upstream or downstream of the at least one homogenizing device (3) and by the flow guide (6) having on both sides of its longitudinal extent edge regions (7, 8) with a greater throughflow cross section in comparison with the longitudinal center region (9). While a smooth, homogenized jet with a transparent, clear jet pattern can be formed with the aid of the homogenizing device (3) and its throughflow holes (4) enclosed by flow guiding walls (5), this jet can be continued as a clearly contoured, flat water jet over a comparatively long free distance by the flow guide (6). |
| US08672243B2 |
Centrifuge nozzle and method and apparatus for inserting said nozzle into a centrifuge bowl
In a centrifuge nozzle a nozzle body defines an inlet in fluid communication with a nozzle outlet. The nozzle body is adapted to be releasably positioned in an aperture defined by a centrifuge bowl assembly. A camming portion projects outwardly from the nozzle body and defines a surface frictionally engageable with a portion of the bowl assembly. The nozzle body also defines a male mounting portion for slidably engaging a complimentarily shaped female slot defined by a nozzle insertion and extraction tool. The outlet of the nozzle is located adjacent to the male mounting portion. |
| US08672239B2 |
Fuel injector
A fuel injector is disclosed that has plural nozzle holes with the same cross-sectional shape and can individually set the flow rate of each nozzle hole. The fuel injector includes the plural nozzle holes, a seat section positioned upstream of the nozzle holes, a valve element that closes a valve when brought into contact with the seat section and opens the valve when separated from the seat section, and a circular cone tapered from an upstream end to a downstream end and provided with the seat section and an inlet opening of the nozzle holes. The plural nozzle holes have an identical shape and a shape of a cross-section of each of the nozzle holes is substantially out-of-round, the cross-section being perpendicular to a central axis of each of the nozzle holes. The cross-section of each of the nozzle holes is rotated around the central axis of each of the nozzle holes. A rotation angle of the cross-section is set in such a manner that a relationship between a conical surface of the circular cone and the rotation angle is different among at least two of the nozzle holes. |
| US08672230B2 |
RFID tag
An RFID tag characterized in including: a dielectric substrate having a hole formed in one main surface thereof; a ground conductive pattern disposed on another main surface of this dielectric substrate; a conductive pattern disposed on the one main surface of the above-mentioned dielectric substrate in such a way as to be placed in an inner portion of the dielectric substrate at a predetermined distance from each of edges of the above-mentioned dielectric substrate, a slot being formed in this conductive pattern; and an IC chip electrically connected to the above-mentioned conductive pattern via this slot, and inserted into the above-mentioned hole of the above-mentioned dielectric substrate. |
| US08672226B2 |
Decoding a physical image
A method for decoding information from a physical image having a plurality of payload patches includes generating a digital representation of the physical image. A plurality of regions are mapped to the plurality of payload patches in the digital representation. A scramble pattern is identified and the plurality of mapped regions of the digital representation are reordered according to the identified scramble pattern. Information is decoded from the payload patches of the reordered plurality of mapped regions. |
| US08672225B2 |
Convertible barcode reader
A convertible barcode reader which includes different configurations for self-service operation and assisted-service operation. An example convertible barcode reader includes a first housing portion including a first barcode reader engine, and a second housing portion including a second barcode reader engine. The second housing portion is moveable between a first position recessed within the first housing portion and a second position extending from the first housing portion. |
| US08672224B2 |
ID scanner with machine-readable coded indicia reader and card imaging digital camera
An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding coded data on an inserted card is disclosed. The device features a barcode scanner, a magnetic strip reader, and a digital camera for recording an image of the surface of a card. By providing these three scanning options, the device is capable of extracting data from virtually any ID card. The device can also be used to compare text or photographs scanned from a card with the digital photograph or encoded data in a two dimensional barcode and to display both sets for comparison for added reliability. The device can also be used to verify the authenticity of virtually any ID card. |
| US08672220B2 |
Money transfer system and method
A money transfer system using a money transfer instrument purchased at a retail location. The system includes a POS terminal for entering a UPC code carried on the instrument. The POS terminal issues a PIN in response to the UPC code, with the PIN printed on a receipt. The customer may enter the PIN on the instrument. The customer later uses the PIN to obtain a money transfer control number (MTCN) associated with a record of the transfer transaction from a money transfer host. |
| US08672219B2 |
Handling of sample tubes comprising geometric tube data
A method for handling a sample tube containing a biological sample is presented. A tube label can be attached to the sample tube. The tube label can carry tube data. The tube data can comprise at least geometric tube data descriptive of at least one geometric property of the sample tube. At least the geometric tube data can be read from the tube label by a reader device. At least the geometric tube data from the reader device can be transmitted to a processing device. The processing device for handling the sample tube can be controlled in accordance with the at least one geometric property described by the read geometric data. |
| US08672216B2 |
Flat card production systems and methods
Systems and methods for producing a presentation instrument involve receiving an image file having an account number stamp, and producing the image file onto a piece of stock material, such that a visible account number corresponding to the account number stamp is created on the stock material. The visible account number is scanned with a reader. An account number record is encoded onto a presentation instrument, and compared with the scanned visible account number. |
| US08672215B2 |
Flexible hinge clam shell food service container with continuous sidewall construction
There is described herein a disposable clam shell food service container having a continuous sidewall which includes a novel flex-hinge panel between the lid and bottom of the container. This construction permits the container to open easily when the lid is pushed upwardly resulting in a flat tray like configuration devoid of the typical upstanding median wall or divider and which may be used as a serving plate by the consumer. The container may be easily snapped closed and locked to allow later consumption of any uneaten food products. Several additional embodiments of the invention are also presented, all of which include a continuous sidewall which ensures that the food product will remain warm and one of several lock means to secure the container in its closed condition. A triangular form of the container is also described for serving of pizza, pies and similar shaped food products. |
| US08672213B2 |
Food container and method for producing food container
A food container having at least two open cone shaped spaces is formed from a sheet folded along three folding lines. The first and second folding lines intersect at a point near or in a point along a center line of the sheet to allow upper surfaces of the sheet on each side of the folding lines to be moved against each other. The third folding line extends transversally in relation to the center line and intersects the first and second folding lines substantially at the point. The third folding line allows folding of the sheet on each side of the third folding to move the surfaces on the under side of the sheet against each other thereby forming two open cones when parts respectively on each side of the third folding line are brought against each other. |
| US08672211B2 |
Vibration welding system with thin film sensor
A vibration welding system includes an anvil, a welding horn, a thin film sensor, and a process controller. The anvil and horn include working surfaces that contact a work piece during the welding process. The sensor measures a control value at the working surface. The measured control value is transmitted to the controller, which controls the system in part using the measured control value. The thin film sensor may include a plurality of thermopiles and thermocouples which collectively measure temperature and heat flux at the working surface. A method includes providing a welder device with a slot adjacent to a working surface of the welder device, inserting the thin film sensor into the slot, and using the sensor to measure a control value at the working surface. A process controller then controls the vibration welding system in part using the measured control value. |
| US08672209B2 |
Laproscopic stapler
A surgical stapling and cutting method comprises: inserting tissue between jaws of a stapler/cutter end effector; closing the jaws; progressively ejecting staples from a first jaw, the progression being from an open distal end of the end effector toward a proximal end of the end effector; and drawing a blade through the tissue in a direction from the distal end toward the proximal end. Apparatus may be provided for performing the method. |
| US08672205B2 |
Nailing device with nail coil stabilizing mechanism
A nailing device includes a body with first and second ends and a handle attached to one of the first and second ends. A nail magazine is articulatably connected to the body, where the nail magazine is configured to receive a nail coil. The nail magazine includes an upper part that has a plurality of recesses and a lower part. In order to stabilize the nails in the nail coil, a plurality of magnets are disposed in the plurality of recesses of the upper part of the nail magazine. |
| US08672200B2 |
Tailgating system
A tailgating system for attachment to a transport vehicle includes a cabinet configured to include at least one of a refrigerator, a grill, a draft system, and a dry storage cabinet. A movable hitch assembly includes a hitch coupling configured to be coupled to a hitch ball connectable to the transport vehicle. The movable hitch assembly is configured to move the hitch coupling up and down relative to the cabinet to raise and lower the cabinet when the movable hitch assembly is coupled to the transport vehicle. |
| US08672197B2 |
Liquid dispenser
A device used to easily fill small containers, i.e. shot glasses, with hot or cold liquids, with precision and speed, without spillage. The device consists of a funnel, attached to a filler hose, with a specialized filler nozzle at the end. Liquid of choice is poured into the funnel. The liquid then flows through the hose, but will not come out until the user activates the nozzle. The nozzle is activated by gently pressing its tip on the floor of the container. The liquid dispenser device may be used to fill shot glasses with hot, liquid gelatin mixtures or can be used to fill other cups, such as communion cups. |
| US08672196B2 |
Dispensable product container
A container (10) suitable for dispensing comestible products has a body (12) with a top face segment (36) having an opening (14) and a concave top face segment (18) and a separate continuous member (40) connected to a side face (24), the member having an openable lid portion (42) which covers the opening and a flexible press portion (50) extending from the lid portion to the side face over the concave top segment face, which is normally convex to the concave top face segment, wherein application of a downward force to the convex flexible press portion transforms the convex portion to a concave portion and rotates the lid portion to uncover the opening. |
| US08672195B2 |
Device with chamber and first and second valves in communication therewith, and related method
A container including a nozzle and body depending therefrom. The body is preferably tubular and defines an interior which retains a product to be dispensed. A cap engages the nozzle to prevent inadvertent release of the product. In order to dispense the product, the cap is removed and pressure is applied to the body and the nozzle allows release of the product. The nozzle releases the product without exposing the remaining product to the external atmosphere, thus the sterility of the interior of the body is maintained and the shelf life of the product is increased. The nozzle includes an inner body, coupled to the tubular body, surrounded by a flexible outer cover. A seam between the inner body and flexible outer cover forms a one-way release valve wherein a portion of the seam remains closed during dispensing the product. |
| US08672190B1 |
Lotion spray head assembly
A spray head assembly includes a press head, a seal member, a push tube, a piston unit, a resilient member, a cylinder unit, a valve and a mount. The press head has an annular face and a first locking portion. The seal member has an inner tube portion and a water-proof portion. The push tube is connected to the press head and has a second locking portion. The cylinder unit has a piston and a main rod respectively connected to the push tube. The main rod has a seal part and the cylinder unit has a narrowed portion. When the press head is pressed, the first locking portion and the second locking portion are positioned and the press head is easily assembled. The narrowed portion and the seal part, and the top of the inner tube portion and the annular face are engaged with each other to prevent from leakage. |
| US08672182B2 |
Discharge spout for flexible bags
The invention relates to a discharge spout for flexible bags, of the type comprising a rigid plastic body forming a discharge passage and having a tube (3) intended to be inserted between two walls of a flexible bag and joined to such walls by means of sealing. The tube (3) has a smooth outer surface and two opposite flat flaps (4) extending externally in a mid-plane of said tube (3). The outer surface of the tube (3) forms, together with the surface (6) of the flat flaps (4), a sealing surface. The outer surface of the tube (3) has a middle area (5a), that is in the axial direction of the tube, in which the distance to the axis (7) of the tube is maximum, separating two side sections (5b, 5c) in which the distance to the axis (7) is decreasing toward the ends of the tube. |
| US08672181B2 |
Dispenser for administering strip-shaped substances
A dispenser for administering strip-shaped substances, includes a housing having a chamber to store a stack of the strip-shaped substances and forming a removal opening for the strip-shaped substances that can be opened and closed again with a lid, said lid being joined to the housing, and being joined to a transport bar that can be moved together with the lid in order to transport the strip-shaped substances. The objective of designing and refining a dispenser of the above-mentioned type in such a manner as to allow a contamination-free and reliable transport of one single strip-shaped substance from the inside of the housing merely by moving the lid is characterized in that the transport bar is elastically pre-tensioned and mounted in the housing in such a way that it is at a distance from the stack when the removal opening is closed. |
| US08672176B2 |
Beverage holding device
An apparatus for holding a beverage includes a base, a frame, and a plurality of biasing members. The base includes at least one inner region and at least one outer region for collecting moisture. The frame is configured to be supported by the base and to receive drinking vessels of varying sizes and configurations. The plurality of biasing members are detachably coupled to the frame and form with the frame an inner cavity of varying capacity for supporting a drinking vessel. The capacity of the inner cavity is adaptively configured when a portion of the drinking vessel is received in the inner cavity. |
| US08672175B2 |
Food plate with beverage support
A food retaining apparatus and associated methods are described. In one embodiment, the food retaining apparatus includes a food receptacle formed in a first side of a plate. The food retaining apparatus further includes a beverage container receptacle comprising an indented hollow having a receptacle opening, where a beverage container is insertable into the receptacle opening and the opening is located on a second side of the plate, the second side being opposite the first side. Also, in one embodiment, a plurality of ribs extend from an inner wall of the indented hollow, the ribs being positioned to engage a lip on an opening of the beverage container. Alternatively, at least one projection maybe disposed on the inner wall of the indented hollow to grip the beverage container when inserted into the beverage container receptacle. |
| US08672170B2 |
Deep refuse container
A deep refuse container with a greater volume for garbage, container can be emptied by using automated elements. The deep refuse container includes a body part having at least one inner space for garbage, and a frame part including an open upper end, a lower end and at least one side for supporting the body part. The frame part of the deep refuse container of is disposed below the ground level so that the upper end of the frame part is substantially at the same level with the ground level or above the ground level. The body part of the deep refuse container is disposed into the frame part so that a lower portion of the body part locates inside the frame part and upper portion of the body part locates above the frame part. The body part is further provided with one or more contact parts for automated emptying elements. |
| US08672168B2 |
Sealing disc with tab for closing a container having a plug or cap closure and fabrication method
Sealing disc (1) for closing a container having a plug or cap closure, comprising a support (2) to be positioned at the bottom of the plug or of the cap, joined by means of a temporary adhesive (7) to a membrane seal (3) to be sealed on the mouth of the container, the membrane seal (3) being provided on all or part of its thickness with a prolongation constituting a pull tab (4), characterized in that the whole surface of the tab is folded back on the face of the membrane seal (3) in contact with the corresponding face of the support (2). |
| US08672167B2 |
Self-opening and re-sealable pouring element of plastics material for application to a pack for liquids
A self-opening and re-sealable pouring element of plastics material for application to a pack for liquids, and in particular a composite card/plastics material pack, has a base part which has an attaching flange, having a cutting element and a screw cap, the cutting element being rotatably arranged in the interior of the base part and operatively connected to the screw cap such that when the screw cap is unscrewed for the first time, an opening for pouring is produced by the cutting element in the material of the pack, wherein, when produced in an injection mold, the cutting element is already entirely arranged in the interior of the base part and is spaced away from the base part by a plurality of connecting bridges. |
| US08672162B2 |
Power tool including a reservoir and a cap attached to the opening of the reservoir
A power tool that includes a reservoir that holds oil and a cap attached to the reservoir. The cap may include a cap body having a communicating path and a valve member covering the communicating path. The valve member may include an elastic part that has a projecting part, which projects from the elastic part and includes a slit. The elastic part and the projecting part being configured to deform to the inner surface side such that the slit of the projecting part opens if the pressure outside the reservoir becomes higher than the pressure inside the reservoir and a difference between the pressure inside the reservoir and the pressure outside the reservoir exceeds a predetermined value. The elastic part and the projecting part also being configured to deform to the outer side surface such that the slit of the projecting part opens if the pressure inside the reservoir becomes higher than the pressure outside the reservoir. |
| US08672159B2 |
Hollow product with localized relief for vacuum sealing
A hollow vacuum packaging product in which a ring includes threads distributed around its periphery, and between which a sealing cap enters into engagement when the hollow product is opened/closed. In an evacuated closed condition of the hollow product, the sealing cap is configured to enter into engagement only in an interval between two consecutive threads, or in plural such consecutive intervals, but not in all of the intervals. Such a hollow product may be, as an example, a thermoplastic bottle or jar. |
| US08672156B2 |
Bottle and cap
The embodiments described herein disclose a bottle and cap. The cap seals the bottle and thereby defines a compartment within the bottle for storing liquid or other material. The cap also includes an internal compartment for storing a liquid or other material in a sealed manner. The cap is designed to readily allow for sterilization during manufacturing, maintaining proper sealing of the compartments, dispensing material from one compartment into the other and providing a tamper-resistant closure. |
| US08672154B2 |
Fillable closure device with triggering pushbutton
The fillable closure with a triggering pushbutton comprises a filler neck (3) that is to be screwed onto or joined to a container neck (4) as well as a closure cap (1) which is associated to the filler neck (3) and can be joined, pivoted and snapped-on the filler neck (3) by means of a hinge connection. A separately fillable container (2) can be inserted into the filler neck (3), the container being closed at the bottom with a sealing foil (19) that can be pierced or cut open. The closure cap (1) comprises a cap cover as a pusher disc (7), which can be pressed downward in the axial direction while deforming. By pressing the cap cover downward on the container (2) inserted in the filler neck or on a rigid opening element accommodated therein, the opening element can be pressed downward so that the sealing foil (19) of the container (2) can be pierced and cut open. |
| US08672152B2 |
Casting process for railcar coupler throwers
A method for casting a thrower for a railcar coupler includes creating a mold box that is vertically parted in halves, each half defining a side of a thrower cavity and that includes at least a portion of a sprue at a location above the thrower cavity, the thrower cavity also being oriented vertically; pouring molten metal into the mold box through the sprue and into the thrower cavity while the mold is oriented vertically; and shaking out the mold box to release the thrower after the thrower has cooled. Creating the mold box may be executed through a cold shell process. The halves of the mold box may include reflective images of the sides of two thrower cavities and an ingate connected between the sprue and one of the two thrower cavities. |
| US08672147B2 |
Expandable clothes frame
An expandable clothes frame includes a pair of laterally disposed end support assemblies for engagement with a ground surface, two longitudinally disposed foldable assemblies each extending between and hingedly engaged with each of the end support assemblies, wherein each foldable assembly is provided in two portions having relative movement therebetween to allow folding of each foldable assembly about a fold axis between the pair of end support assemblies, a linkage assembly extending longitudinally between the foldable assemblies, and a locking assembly for securing the two portions of at least one of the foldable assemblies relative to each other so as to secure the frame in the extended configuration. Upon the frame being urged towards an extended configuration the engageable and cooperative portions are urged towards each other and engage so as to secure the two portions relative to each other and maintain the frame in the extended configuration. |
| US08672142B2 |
Composite semipermeable membrane
It is an object of the present invention to provide a composite semipermeable membrane having an excellent resistance property to contamination, particularly an excellent resistance property to microbial contamination, and a water treatment method using the composite semipermeable membrane. The present invention relates to a composite semipermeable membrane comprising a skin layer formed on the surface of a porous support and containing a polyamide-based resin obtained by reacting a polyfunctional amine component with a polyfunctional acid halide component, wherein an antibacterial layer containing a silver-based antibacterial agent and a polymer component is formed on the skin layer directly or with other layer interposed therebetween, and the weight ratio between the silver-based antibacterial agent and the polymer component in the antibacterial layer is 55:45 to 95:5 (silver-based antibacterial agent:polymer component). |
| US08672141B2 |
Solid-liquid separating system
A solid-liquid separating system of a parallel plate conveying type can efficiently dehydrate sludge at an inlet and effectively dehydrate it at an outlet, and assures good solid-liquid separating performance. A filter is constituted by a first plate group and a second plate group which perform the parallel motion and displacement left and right, and up and down on the basis of the circular motion. The first plate group includes a plurality of plates A arranged with predetermined spaces. The second plate group includes a plurality of plates B which are as thick as the plates A, and plates C which are thicker than the plates B. The plates B and C are separated. A press unit (not shown) presses sludge at an outlet, where gaps between plates are narrowed. Even when the sludge is dehydrated by applying pressure, few solids will flow out. |
| US08672139B2 |
Sorting mined material
A method of sorting mined material to separate the mined material is disclosed. The method comprises exposing particles of the mined material to microwave energy and heating the particles depending on the susceptibility of the material in the particles. The method also comprises thermally analyzing the particles using the temperatures of the particles as a basis for the analysis to indicate composition differences between particles and sorting the particles on the basis of the results of the thermal analysis. The method also comprises controlling the temperature of particles as the particles are moved between a station at which particles are exposed to microwave energy and a station at which particles are thermally analyzed. |
| US08672137B2 |
Modular, knock down, light weight, thermally insulating, tamper proof cargo container
The invention provides a knock-down, lightweight, thermally insulating, shipping container made at least in part from a polymer core covered by a thermoplastic sheet layer. In an embodiment of the invention, the shipping container is modular, being adjusted to suit the item(s) to be shipped. In an embodiment of the invention, the base, top panel and walls are made of expanded polystyrene core and combined with high impact polystyrene surface. In one embodiment, a mesh is introduced into the core to strengthen the core making the shipping container tamper proof. A shipping container bag that is light weight, strong, made of a fire retardant material and which forms an ultra violet light, weather and dust barrier can be used to store the shipping container. A system and method for supplying, dispensing, positioning, tracking, transporting, forwarding and storing the light weight shipping containers based on the shipping container bag is disclosed. |
| US08672136B2 |
Tray system
A tray system is disclosed, comprising a tray for carrying food articles which is magnetized in at least one magnetized area of the tray, and comprising at least one holder adapted for holding a filled food article, the tray and the at least one bread holder being adapted such that when the bread holder is placed on the at least one magnetized area of the tray, the bread holder is attracted to the tray, the magnetic attraction force between the bread holder and the tray being large enough in order to prevent the holder from falling over when filled. |
| US08672131B2 |
Interchangeable packing apparatus for aerogenerator blades
Interchangeable packing apparatus (4) for aerogenerator blades (1) particularly versatile for different blade sizes and designs, and to meet the different legal requirements of various countries, but still having a low manufacturing cost and high capacity of supporting the heavy loads. The packing apparatus (4) comprises an external frame (9) and an internal frame (8) wherein the internal frame (8) comprises an structural mounting and at least damper member (10) for receiving one side of at least a portion of the aerogenerator blade (1) and wherein said internal frame (8) substantially supports the load of at least said portion of the aerogenerator blade (1) and wherein the internal frame (8) is selectively positionable relative to the external frame in at least two positions in order to receive different portions of the aerogenerator blade (1) relative to the longitudinal axis. Moreover, the packing apparatus also comprises at least one anchor arm (14) pivotally coupled to the external frame (9) and selectively positionable. |
| US08672129B2 |
Multicard holder
A card holder for holding a plurality of transaction cards, such as a gift cards, that minimizes display rack space occupied by the holder when it is on display for sale, but that expands to hold multiple gift cards. |
| US08672128B2 |
Container for sanitizing an article
A container for sanitizing an article includes a case defining a central void sized to accommodate at least a portion of the article, a receptacle in fluid communication with the central void, and a granular, antiseptic media disposed within the receptacle. The granular, antiseptic media includes at least one out-gassing, antimicrobial agent such as, thyme oil or thymol. The granular, antiseptic media may further include a granular, fragrance blended with the granular, out-gassing, antimicrobial agent in a select ratio to remediate an antiseptic odor of the out-gassing, antimicrobial agent. The article may be a toothbrush or other type of brush, a mouth guard, a comb, a sponge, or other article which may be stored in a damp or wet condition after use. |
| US08672122B2 |
Carrying container folded from a die cut sheet material
A carrying container for bottles includes a container body and a packaging reinforcing arrangement. The container body, which is made of a one-piece panel structure having a plurality of folding lines provided thereon, includes a bottom wall, a top wall, a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls to form a substantially cubic structure of the container and to define a receiving cavity. The packaging reinforcing arrangement includes two reinforcing walls integrally extended from two side edges of the bottom wall to the two side walls respectively, and supported within the receiving cavity at a position that a front reinforcing edge and a rear reinforcing edge of each of the reinforcing walls are biasing against inner surfaces of the front and rear walls of the container body for effectively resisting an external impact force. |
| US08672119B2 |
System for conveying a part
A system for providing stability to a carriage along a curved portion of a rail. The system includes a support rail having a bend. The bend includes a support surface. The carriage is configured to engage the support surface so as to stabilize the carriage as the carriage is moved through the curved portion of the rail. |
| US08672118B2 |
Conveyor installation with carrying bags for products to be conveyed
A conveyor installation has carrying bags, in which products to be conveyed can be transported. In order to ensure an adequate spacing of the carrying bags from one another on back-up sections, the latter have spacers, which can be adjusted between a rest position and a working position. |
| US08672117B2 |
Continuous motion inline feeder
An inline product feeder for a packaging line and related methods are disclosed. In one example, an inline product feeder includes a product input line configured to receive a contiguous supply of products and configured to guide the products in continuous motion along a path of travel. The inline product feeder also includes a packaging line configured to receive separated groups of the products from the product input line. The inline feeder further includes a feeder unit configured to separate groups of products from the contiguous supply of products in the product input line and move the group of products into the packaging line, each of the separated groups of products including a predetermined number of products from the product input line. |
| US08672115B1 |
Clutch for a roller shade including a ribbed spindle
A roller shade clutch is disclosed. In exemplary embodiments the clutch may comprise a housing, a ribbed post extending axially from the housing, a sprocket wheel mounted for rotation around the post, at least one torsion spring mounted for rotation on the ribbed post, a chain guard, a boss extending axially from the sprocket wheel, and a drum disposed over the ribbed post, the torsion spring and the boss. |
| US08672114B2 |
Release bearing assembly
A release bearing assembly for an automotive clutch connecting an engine with a transmission is provided. The release bearing assembly can have a front slinger with a main body with a generally radial planar portion that at least partially covers an annular spacing between the bearing inner and outer races of the release bearing assembly. A rear slinger is provided which contacts an outer race of the bearing and forms an annular groove portion adjacent the annular spacing between the inner and outer races. |
| US08672112B2 |
Drive system for vehicle
A drive system for a vehicle includes an engine, a transmission, a clutch mechanism including first and second clutch portions, the clutch mechanism being switchable between connected and disconnected states, and a clutch operation mechanism switching the clutch mechanism between the connected and disconnected states, the clutch operation mechanism including a clutch drum forming a drum chamber, a piston dividing the drum chamber into a spring chamber and a pressurizing chamber, a control valve, a biasing member arranged in the spring chamber and exerting a biasing force in a direction in which the first and second clutch portions are engaged with each other, and a bore formed in the clutch drum, the bore discharging oil of the spring chamber to an outer side of the spring chamber in a state where a counteracting force against a centrifugal force acting in the pressurizing chamber is generated in the spring chamber. |
| US08672107B2 |
Compact vibration damper
A vibration damper includes a rigid base with a mass coupled thereto for linear movement thereon. Springs coupled to the mass compress in response to the linear movement along either of two opposing directions. A converter coupled to the mass converts the linear movement to a corresponding rotational movement. A rotary damper coupled to the converter damps the rotational movement. |
| US08672106B2 |
Self-regulating suspension
A self-regulating suspension includes a first suspension member movable relative to a second suspension member, a fluid reservoir having a volume, the volume variable in response to a relative movement between the first and second suspension members, and a fluid flow circuit having a first end in fluidic communication with the fluid reservoir and a second end in fluidic communication with an isolated suspension location, the fluid flow circuit comprising a first valve, a second valve and a third valve, wherein said first and third valves are in parallel with each other and the second valve is in series with each of the first and third valves. |
| US08672105B2 |
Damping control device filled with magnetorheological fluid and engine mount having the same
A damping control device includes a lower core, a nonmagnetic orifice, an upper core, and a membrane made of an elastic material to shield a lower end of the lower core, and in which the lower core and the upper core are magnetized when a current is applied to the coil, and a predetermined amount of the MR fluid is filled therein, such that the MR fluid flows between the pressure applying plate and the upper plate according to an elastic compression of the membrane. |
| US08672100B2 |
Cylinder apparatus and disk brake
A disk brake having a cylinder apparatus wherein although an opening of a cylinder body is closed by a covering member, processing and parts' costs are reduced, fluid leakage is prevented, and the apparatus can be reduced in size. A piston (17) is caused to slidingly move in a bore (26) of a cylinder (21) of the cylinder apparatus. The cylinder (21) includes a covering member (43) provided in a bottom portion (42) of the cylinder (21), and a cylinder body (46) having an opening that is closed by the covering member (43). The covering member (43) is friction stir welded to the cylinder body (46). |
| US08672098B2 |
Elevator safety device with foreign matter detection using a light beam
There is provided an elevator safety device that can prevent a light beam from being looked into. The elevator safety device according to the present invention includes light emitting means for emitting a light beam crossing an entrance; light receiving means for detecting the light beam emitted from the light emitting means; foreign matter detection means for generating a foreign matter detection signal when detection of the light beam by the light receiving means is interrupted; and control means. The control means causes the light emitting means to stop an emission in a fully opened state of car doors, and causes the light emitting means to start the emission at a start of or during a closing operation of the car doors. |
| US08672096B2 |
Methods and apparatus for lubricating suspension components
Methods and apparatus for lubricating suspension seals by pumping fluid to the seals using a compression or rebound action of a suspension component. |
| US08672091B2 |
Personnel safety apparatus for a machine
Personnel safety apparatus is provided on a machine to prevent users from falling while moving between access points on the machine. The apparatus includes a rail having a first end positioned adjacent a first user access point and a second end positioned adjacent a second user access point to define a rail path that spans a vertical elevation. A carrier is movably coupled to the rail and has a first mode, in which the carrier engages a fixed position on the rail, and a second mode, in which the carrier is permitted to move relative to the rail. A tether extends between a harness on the user and the carrier to secure the user to the machine. |
| US08672086B2 |
Torque sensor type power steering system with solid steering shaft and vehicle therewith
A steering apparatus includes a rotatable steering shaft having an exterior, an input end for connecting a steering member and an output end for connecting to at least one steerable wheel of a vehicle. An electric motor is operatively connected to the steering shaft for rotating the steering shaft. The shaft is magnetized and serves as a torque sensor transducer. At least one magnetic field sensor is adjacent to the exterior of the steering shaft. The steering shaft and the at least one magnetic field sensor form a torque sensor for sensing torque applied to the steering shaft by the manually operable steering member and provide a signal to operate the electric motor to assist steering of the steering shaft by the manually operable steering member. |
| US08672085B2 |
Variable ratio transmission mechanism
A variable ratio transmission mechanism is used in an automobile. The automobile includes first and second steering shafts extending along a first direction. The variable ratio transmission mechanism includes a securing unit connected to the first steering shaft, a connecting unit connected to the second steering shaft, a motor connected to the securing unit and including a revolving shaft that extends rotatably along a second direction different from the first direction, and a transmitting unit including a worm gear that is provided on the connecting unit and a worm that is provided on the revolving shaft and that engages and is angularly-slidable relative to the worm gear. |
| US08672084B2 |
Rear wheel steering system
A rear wheel steering system includes a rear rack shaft that slides in a vehicle-width direction to steer a pair of rear wheels, a recess formed in the rear rack shaft, and a pin member that is fitted into the recess from the outer side of the rear rack shaft, and is retracted to be disengaged from the recess. The pin member is fitted into the recess to lock sliding of the rear rack shaft in a neutral position, and the pin member placed in a retracted state is disengaged from the recess to cancel slide lock on the rear rack shaft. The rear rack shaft has guide grooves formed on respective sides of the recess in a longitudinal direction of the rear rack shaft so as to be contiguous with the recess, and used to guide the pin member, placed in the advanced state, toward the recess. |
| US08672078B2 |
External airbag module for vehicle and back beam for mounting external airbag module
An external airbag module for a vehicle, installed to be located in a space formed between a back beam and a front bumper may include an inflator secured to a front of the back beam and accommodated in the back beam, and an airbag cushion surrounding the inflator and secured to the back beam together with the inflator between the back beam and the front bumper. |
| US08672077B2 |
Integrated cast motorcycle chassis and motor housing
This invention comprises a frame for an electric motorcycle. Electric motorcycles have vastly different component requirements compared to internal combustion engine motorcycles, and, therefore, require a radical redesign of the frame in order to maximize the efficiency of the system. |
| US08672073B2 |
Construction machine
A construction machine includes an engine disposed in an engine room, a heat exchanger disposed in the engine room, an air intake passage configured to provide a communication between the interior and the exterior of the engine room, and a cooling fan disposed in the engine room. The cooling fan is configured to draw external air into the engine room through the air intake passage by rotation thereof, and to flow the external air for allowing the external air to pass the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger has an air intake surface formed on a side portion thereof. The air intake surface is a surface configured to receive airflow to be drawn into the heat exchanger. The air intake passage is configured to flow the external air drawn to the air intake passage along a route passing a position over the heat exchanger and reaching the air intake surface. |
| US08672065B2 |
Vehicle having an articulated suspension and method of using same
A vehicle includes a chassis and a plurality of wheel assemblies articulated with the chassis, each of the plurality of wheel assemblies comprising a rotatable wheel spaced away from the chassis. A vehicle includes a chassis and an articulated suspension system mounted to the chassis. A method includes comprising articulating at least one of a plurality of wheel assemblies with a chassis, each of the wheel assemblies including a rotatable wheel spaced apart from the chassis. A vehicle includes a chassis and articulatable means for rolling the chassis along a path. |
| US08672060B2 |
High shear roller cone drill bits
A drill bit includes a bit body comprising at its upper end a connection adapted to connect to a drill string and at its lower end a plurality of journals extending downwardly and radially outward from a longitudinal axis of the bit. A plurality of roller cones are rotatably mounted on the plurality of journals and at least three rows of cutting elements are disposed on each of the plurality of roller cones. The outermost row of the at least three rows of cutting elements has an extension height to diameter ratio greater than a mid row, and the mid row has an extension height to diameter ratio greater than an innermost row. |
| US08672053B2 |
Tool holder for impacting machine
A tool holder for a hand supported impacting machine, which tool holder is suitable for receiving a tool having a shank portion on which is formed a retaining collar. The tool holder includes a tubular main body for receiving the tool and at least one locking element moveably mounted with respect to the main body and having an engaging portion moveable between a radially inner locked position in which the engaging portion is engageable with the retaining collar of the tool and a radially outer unlocked position in which a tool can be inserted into or removed from the tool holder. The tool holder additionally comprises a manually actuable sleeve moveable between a locked position in which the locking elements are held in their locked position and an unlocked position in which the engaging portions of the locking elements are moveable to their unlocked position. |
| US08672047B2 |
Apparatus for mounting a scraper assembly to an accessory mount of a disc opener that allows deflection of the scraper assembly
A ground opener unit for a seeding or planting unit includes an accessory mount attachable to an implement frame and a disc rotatably mounted to the accessory mount for forming a furrow in the ground. A scraper assembly includes a scraper plate defining a scraper edge for contacting and scraping a surface of the disc. The scraper plate is mounted to the arm by a pivot pin whose length defines a pivot axis about which the scraper plate may pivot in response to deflection of the disc. A spring is generally held in compression to bias the scraper plate against the disc. |
| US08672044B2 |
Device for increasing the effectiveness of the pressurizing gas in an extinguisher bottle
A fire extinction device comprises a reservoir (2) of extinguishing agent and means for generating a pressurized gas (30) such that the gas generated (16) may enter the reservoir (2) when the extinguishing agent (4) is to be ejected onto a fire zone.The device of the invention comprises furthermore a refractory separating element (40) between the extinguishing agent (4) and the pressurizing gas generated (16), in order to avoid heat exchanges between them and to optimise the ejection of the extinguishing agent (4). |
| US08672043B2 |
Enclosed coiled tubing boat and methods
An apparatus including a coiled tubing unit coupled to a drilling rig, and an enclosure surrounding the coiled tubing unit. The coiled tubing unit may include a coiled tubing reel and a coiled tubing injector, wherein the injector may move relative to the coiled tubing reel. The coiled tubing unit is configured to move relative to the drilling rig in both longitudinal and lateral directions. |
| US08672037B2 |
Plug removal and setting system
A method for removing a plug from and setting a plug into a subsea installation is provided. The method for removing the plug includes the steps of deploying an intervention package having at least one valve, pipe rams, and a lubricator into a subsea environment and latching the intervention package to the subsea installation. The method further includes lowering a stroking tool into the intervention package by conveyance from a surface facility, and grabbing the stroking tool with the pipe rams that form a part of the intervention package. Once the stroking tool is held by the pipe rams, the method further includes activating the stroking tool to stroke in an upwards or downwards direction to remove the plug positioned in the subsea installation. Once the plug has been removed by the stroking tool, the method further includes pulling the stroking tool out of the intervention package and retrieving the stroking tool and plug at surface. |
| US08672036B2 |
Wellbore circulation tool and method
A circulation valve includes: an outer tubular sleeve telescopically mounted at its end over a tubular mandrel; a fluid passage between sleeve and the mandrel, the fluid passage providing fluid communication between the inner bore of the valve and its outer surface; a dual knife seal assembly to control flow out of the fluid flow path through the fluid passage, the dual knife seal assembly including a first annular knife seal edge and land that seal up when the sleeve and mandrel are in a fully axially compressed position and a second annular knife seal edge and land that seal up when the sleeve and mandrel are pulled into a fully in tension position; and, a J-slot position indexing mechanism including a slot and a key to guide movement of the sleeve and the mandrel between the fully in tension position and the fully compressed position. The circulation valve is employed in a wellbore treatment assembly and methods. |
| US08672034B2 |
Well system with lateral main bore and strategically disposed lateral bores and method of forming
A wellbore system and a method of forming the wellbore system, where the wellbore system is made up of a primary wellbore that is disposed entirely above a producing zone and lateral wellbores that extend from the primary wellbore into the producing zone. By penetrating the producing, or target, zone with the lateral wellbores, fractures in the target zone can be better avoided thereby increasing the potential amount of recoverable hydrocarbon. Optionally, wellbore systems are included that have more than a single primary wellbore. Further disclosed is a method of maximizing wellbore production by selectively blocking designated lateral wellbores in which water or other non-hydrocarbon fluid is detected. |
| US08672033B2 |
Method of improving performance and efficiency of wellbore pump for hydrocarbon production
Method of improving performance or efficiency of a wellbore pump associated with a wellbore and/or for increasing the rate of production of reservoir fluid from a reservoir, in which a wellbore pump is arranged to pump wellbore fluid within the wellbore to a surface. The method includes (a) selecting a wellbore which includes an associated wellbore pump associated with a production tube and arranged within a casing. An annulus is defined between the casing and the pump/production tube, the annulus including reservoir fluid which has a hydrostatic head which is at least 15 m above the level of an inlet of the wellbore pump, and (b) contacting a reservoir fluid in the annulus upstream of an inlet of the wellbore pump with a treatment formulation. The treatment formulation has a first polymeric material which includes —O— moieties pendent from a polymeric backbone thereof, and the first polymeric material is optionally cross-linked. |
| US08672026B2 |
Fluid control in reservior fluid sampling tools
A pumping system comprising: a probe to suction a fluid from a fluid reservoir; a pump in fluid communication with said probe; a sensor for detecting phase changes in said pumping system, said sensor in fluid communication with said probe or pump, said sensor generating a sensor signal; a fluid exit from said pumping system, said fluid exit being in fluid communication with said pump; and a variable force check valve located between said probe and said fluid exit. |
| US08672025B2 |
Downhole debris removal tool
A downhole debris recovery tool including a ported sub coupled to a debris sub, a suction tube disposed in the debris sub, and an annular jet pump sub disposed in the ported sub and fluidly connected to the suction tube is disclosed. A method of removing debris from a wellbore including the steps of lowering a downhole debris removal tool into the wellbore, the downhole debris removal tool having an annular jet pump sub, a mixing tube, a diffuser, and a suction tube, flowing a fluid through a bore of the annular jet pump sub, jetting the fluid from the annular jet pump sub into the mixing tube, displacing an initially static fluid in the mixing tube through the diffuser, thereby creating a vacuum effect in the suction tube to draw a debris-laden fluid into the downhole debris removal tool, and removing the tool downhole debris removal tool from the wellbore after a predetermined time interval is also disclosed. Further, an isolation valve including a housing, an inner tube disposed coaxially with the housing, and a gate, wherein the gate is configured to selectively close an annular space between the housing and the inner tube is disclosed. |
| US08672023B2 |
Apparatus and method for completing wells using slurry containing a shape-memory material particles
In aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of performing a wellbore operation, which in one embodiment includes supplying a mixture containing a fluid and shape memory particles of a first size into a selected region in the wellbore, retaining the shape memory particles of the first size in the selected region while expelling the fluid from the selected region, and activating the shape memory particles retained in the selected region to cause them to expand to attain a second shape to fill the selected region with shape memory particles having the second shape. |
| US08672021B2 |
Simplified flow shell and tube type heat exchanger for transfer line exchangers and like applications
A shell and tube heat exchanger (which can be a boiler) which includes a plenum chamber defined by at least one of the tube-sheets and a diaphragm plate. In this plenum chamber a system of outer and inner annuli around each of the tubes created by a system of baffle tubes that surround each fluid tube and a holes in the thick tube-sheet of the exchanger. This arrangement allows the high pressure cooling fluid in the shell to keep the high temperature low pressure fluid tube inlet, and the associated tube-sheet cool under very high hot fluid flow rates at lower cost, smaller footprint and with lower pressure loss of the low pressure hot fluid than previous art. |
| US08672018B2 |
Cylinder head and method
A cylinder head is formed by positioning a clad preform including a first and second layer in a casting die cavity with the second layer in communication with the die cavity and the first layer facing outwardly to define a combustion surface. Molten material provided to the die cavity is solidified to form a cast portion metallurgically bonded to the second layer. An aperture of the preform forms a port in fluid communication with a passage of the cast portion. A plurality of dome-shaped preforms may define the combustion chambers of a cylinder head formed by the method. The preform may define a cylinder head face. The first layer may be a steel-based layer, and the second layer and cast portion may be aluminum-based, such that the first layer and combustion surface has higher thermal fatigue strength relative to the cast portion. |
| US08672013B2 |
Apparatus for handling magnet
An apparatus for handling a magnet handles a plurality of split magnets obtained by sequentially splitting a magnet to be split from one end thereof. The apparatus for handling a magnet is equipped with a mechanism which arranges a split magnet with respect to a previously split magnet so that the magnets are put on top of one another and the corresponding irregularities of a pair of split surfaces thereof are arranged opposite each other. The apparatus for handling a magnet is also equipped with a section where the plurality of split magnets are arranged. |
| US08672005B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having connecting grooves
A pneumatic tire comprises a tread portion having an outside tread edge and an inside tread edge. The tread portion is provided with: a plurality of oblique grooves extending from the outside tread edge toward the inside tread edge beyond the tire equator, while inclining to one circumferential direction corresponding to the tire rotational direction at angles of from 20 to 45 degrees with respect to said one circumferential direction; and a plurality of connecting grooves extending between the oblique grooves at angles β of from 90 to 180 degrees with respect to said one circumferential direction. Between every two of the adjacent oblique grooves, there are disposed are three or more of the connecting grooves which are gradually decreased in the angle β from the outside tread edge towards the inside tread edge, whereby a plurality of oblique blocks are formed between every two of the adjacent oblique grooves. |
| US08672002B2 |
Key locator
A key locator includes first and second members. The first member has opposed ends and an intermediate u-shaped region. One of the ends of the first member comprises a hook for engaging the second member which includes a clasp while the other end comprises an enlarged portion for fixing an ornament thereto. The arrangement is suitable for hanging at the open top of a bag-like device such as a purse, backpack or briefcase whereby the ornament is displayed at the same time that the keys are readily accessible without undue fishing efforts. |
| US08672001B2 |
Tooth assembly and cutting bits for stump grinder
A stump grinding wheel tooth assembly having a mounting block positioned around the periphery of the wheel and a cutting bit attached to the mounting block by a pin passing through a hole in the cutting bit and a corresponding hole in the mounting block and capped by a nut. The mounting block may support multiple cutting bits arranged into a predetermined patterns based on the location of the holes, such as pairs of cutting bits or even a quad formation. The cutting bits may be provided in various geometric configurations, such as round, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal or decagonal. |
| US08671998B2 |
Apparatus and method for testing an aircraft tank system
An apparatus for testing an aircraft tank system includes a fuel supply device including a fuel reservoir, a fuel supply line for supplying fuel from the fuel reservoir to a fuel outlet of the fuel supply device, and a first isolation valve disposed in the fuel supply line. A fuel transfer line transfers fuel from the fuel outlet of the fuel supply device to the aircraft tank system and a second isolation valve is disposed in the fuel transfer line. An electronic control unit (ECU) of the apparatus is adapted to control the first isolation valve and the second isolation valve so as to interrupt the supply of fuel through the fuel supply line and the transfer of fuel through the fuel transfer line, respectively, in response to a test parameter signal provided to the electronic control unit (ECU). |
| US08671997B2 |
Device and method for filling a container with a gas under pressure
Device for filling a container with a gas under pressure comprising at least one source of gas pressurized to a first pressure, a transfer circuit capable of selectively connecting the source or sources of pressurized gas to the tank to be filled, the transfer circuit comprising control members for controlling the flow of the gas from the source or sources to the tank, the transfer circuit further including at least one cooling exchanger for cooling the pressurized gas comprising a hot flow circuit for the pressurized gas to be cooled, a cold flow circuit for a cold cooling fluid, and a refrigeration hold-over medium being in direct heat exchange with the cold fluid of the cold circuit and with the pressurized gas to be cooled of the hot circuit, in order to selectively carry out indirect heat exchange between the pressurized gas and the cold fluid, wherein the refrigeration hold-over medium forms and fills a gap between the cold fluid of the cold circuit and the pressurized gas of the hot circuit, the gap having a thickness of greater than 5 mm and preferably between 20 and 50 mm. |
| US08671994B2 |
Syringe filling apparatus
A syringe filling apparatus having a housing, a fluid reservoir, and a port for providing a fluid pathway between the syringe and the fluid reservoir. The apparatus has an alarm to indicate the fluid level within the reservoir. The apparatus has a heating system for heating the fluid within the reservoir to a predetermined temperature. |
| US08671986B2 |
Hydraulic controller
A pair of supply/drain pipes continuous with an actuator are respectively communicable with a pair of oil sumps respectively through an intermediation of a pair of extended paths. The pair of oil sumps is formed in a switch-spool insertion hole and enter a neutral state or a state of being selectively communicated with any one of respective pressure-oil paths and respective oil-return paths. A non-leak valve is provided over respective connection portions and between the pair of supply/drain pipes and the pair of extended paths. The non-leak valve is opened when an operation of a pump is started, is maintained to be opened during the operation of the pump, and is closed when the pump is out of operation. |
| US08671978B2 |
Refueling device and motor vehicle having such a refueling device
A refueling device (1) for refueling a fuel tank (2) of an internal combustion engine (3) in a motor vehicle (4) has a filler connector (5) for feeding fuel to the fuel tank (2). An integrated fuel feed device (10) feeds the fuel from the filler connector (5) to the fuel tank (2). |
| US08671974B2 |
Flow-actuated actuator and method
Disclosed herein is a flow-actuated actuator. The actuator includes, a tubular with a flow passageway having a first flow area, and at least one movable member in operable communication with the tubular. The at least one movable member is movable relative to the tubular between at least a first position and a second position, the at least one movable member configured to form a second flow area that is smaller than the first flow area when in the second position, the flow-actuated actuator is configured to move a separate member in response to fluid flow therethrough. |
| US08671973B2 |
Mass flow controller hysteresis compensation system and method
A method of characterizing hysteresis as a function of a device output comprising, applying an input signal across a first input signal range to a device, the input signal inducing a device function having a first output with a first output value range dependent upon the first input signal range. The input signal is further applied across a second input signal range to the device, the input signal inducing the device function to have a second output with a second output value range dependent upon (i) the second input signal range and (ii) device hysteresis. A difference between the second input signal range and the first input signal range is then measured across the first and second output value ranges. A method of operating a mass flow controller valve and a mass flow controller are also contemplated. |
| US08671972B2 |
Safety valve system for overpressure protection of hydraulic circuits
An overpressure protection system provides for protection of a hydraulic system from elevated pressures. The system automatically stops flow to the system and prevents system pressure from exceeding a predetermined level. The system requires manual intervention to reopen flow, giving a worker the opportunity to resolve any system problems before system damage occurs. |
| US08671968B2 |
Device for pressure testing of pipes
A device is described for combined fluid replacement and pressure testing in pipes with inaccessible end points. The device is characterized in that it is a two-piece circulation valve structure comprising: a first valve unit (4) comprising a seal element (1) which closes and opens depending on the dynamic fluid pressure through the valve, and a second valve unit (6) arranged to permanently close off the fluid flow when the pressure testing terminates. The first valve unit (4) comprises an elastic sealing ring (1) arranged to close against a seat in the valve unit in step with an increase in the fluid flow velocity through the valve, while the second valve unit is a casing (6) which is arranged inside the valve an closes when a pressure differential arises between a chamber (7) and the inside of the valve (4). |
| US08671966B2 |
Needleless access port valves
Needleless access port valves are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to needleless access port valves having a pliant valve piston and/or plug that exudes silicone oil when stressed or squeezed while providing antimicrobial agents within and on the surface of the piston and/or plug. The pliant valve piston may have an integrally formed plug and one or more ports or a separately formed plug located inside a plastic housing. The plug cooperates with a nozzle on the inlet connector assembly to form a slip port or a Luer inlet, which can open when exerted by force to permit flow or closes when the force is removed. |
| US08671964B2 |
Aseptic connector with deflectable ring of concern and method
An aseptic fluid connector having a first connector including a first fluid passageway for receiving a fluid therein; a first port in fluid communication with the first fluid passageway for passage of the fluid therethrough; and a first deflecting member. The first deflecting member includes a first engaging portion radially spaced relative to the first port, and a first valve movable between a closed position and an open position with movement of the first engaging portion between a non-deflected position and a deflected position, respectively. In the non-deflected position, the first valve is located in the closed position forming a fluid-tight seal between the first valve and first port and preventing the passage of fluid therethrough, and in the deflected position, the first valve is located in the open position allowing the aseptic passage of fluid through the first port. |
| US08671962B1 |
Walker glide assembly
An articulating glide assembly for use on the leg of a walker includes an adapter with a sleeve having an open end to receive the free end of the walker leg. A base at the bottom end of the sleeve supports the downward force exerted by the walker. A hole in the base receives an upwardly directed pin extending from an articulating foot that is movably engaged with the base. The worn foot may be easily pulled from the base and replaced with a new foot as required. |
| US08671961B2 |
Methods and apparatus for cleaning semiconductor wafers
An apparatus for cleaning and conditioning the surface of a semiconductor substrate such as wafer includes a rotatable chuck, a chamber, a rotatable tray for collecting cleaning solution with one or more drain outlets, multiple receptors for collecting multiple cleaning solutions, a first motor to drive chuck, and a second motor to drive the tray. The drain outlet in the tray can be positioned directly above its designated receptor located under the drain outlet. The cleaning solution collected by the tray can be guided into designated receptor. One characteristic of the apparatus is having a robust and precisely controlled cleaning solution recycle with minimum cross contamination. |
| US08671960B2 |
Detergent dispenser with agitator current determining fill level
The present invention relates to a washer (1) comprising a dosing unit (4). In the said washer (1), the current supplied to the agitator motor (8) actuating the agitator (6) disposed inside the receptacle (5) of the dosing unit (4), preferably at the base embedded in the cleaning agent, is monitored, in order to determine a fill level of the dosing unit (4) by comparing the supplied current to stored current levels for known fill levels. |
| US08671956B2 |
Method for permanent reshaping and in particular for straightening, comprising a stage of straightening keratinous fibres employing a composition comprising at least 40% by weight of non-silicone fatty substances
The present invention relates to a method for the permanent reshaping and in particular straightening of keratinous fibers, in particular human keratinous fibers, such as the hair, comprising a stage of application, to the keratinous fibers, of a cosmetic composition comprising one or more non-silicone fatty substances in a content of greater than or equal to 40% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the composition, and a stage of heating the keratinous fibers using an iron, after the application of the said cosmetic composition. |
| US08671954B2 |
Hair colouring tool and method of use
A hair coloring tool which includes a body which has an opening and interior walls that define an interior cavity for containing a fluid hair colorant. At least one dispensing structure is provided on the body which is in fluid communication with the interior cavity. A plunger is pivotally connected to the body. The plunger is removably positioned in the opening of the interior cavity and is in sealing engagement with the interior walls of the interior cavity such that upon manual depression of the plunger, fluid hair colorant is forced from the interior cavity through the dispensing structure. A variety of configurations of combing tines, brushes, and nozzles are provided to accommodate varying hair types and textures as well as for the chosen width of the application of hair colorant. |
| US08671953B2 |
Nail clipping and catchment apparatus
A nail clipping and catchment apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a flexible breathable backing layer having a shape, and a window layer having substantially the same shape as the backing, and being mated to an edge of the backing by an upper seam sufficient to create a pouch, the pouch for catching and containing nail clippings. The apparatus further includes a number of openings in the window layer, the plurality of openings including opposing hand openings on opposite sides of a bottom portion of the pouch near the edge and separated by a lower seam between the breathable backing layer and the window layer, the opposing hand openings each for receiving a nail-bearing extremity of a human. The apparatus further includes one or more pockets positioned on an outer surface of the pouch, the one or more pockets each having an access opening aligned toward the upper seam of the pouch. |
| US08671949B2 |
Headgear-earwear assembly and a method of assembling same
A headgear-earwear assembly and a method of assembling the same. The headgear-earwear assembly can include an earwear and a headgear adapted to be coupled together. The earwear can include an elongated member, such as a cord, having a length, and an earpiece coupled to the elongated member. The headgear can include a major surface and a channel oriented substantially along the major surface of the headgear. The channel can be configured to removably house at least a portion of the length of the elongated member. The method can include positioning at least a portion of the elongated member in the channel, such that at least a portion of the length of the elongated member is removably housed in the channel. |
| US08671948B2 |
Corded earplugs
An apparatus and a method of making a corded earplug, including a flexible cord material and a pair of earplugs. Each earplug has a nose portion for insertion into the ear and a rear portion extending from the nose portion and lying outside of the ear when the nose portion is inserted into the ear. Each rear portion has a pair of openings physically displaced from each other and/or angularly displaced from each other. At least one of the openings extends through the rear portion. A short portion of the flexible cord material is inserted through the at least one opening extending through the rear portion. The short portion of the flexible cord material is then inserted into the other opening to have the short portion of the flexible cord material physically displaced and/or angularly displaced along its length to lock the flexible cord material to the rear portion of the earplug. |
| US08671946B2 |
Custom dental appliance and method of creating a custom dental appliance
According to one embodiment, a dental device is provided. The dental device includes an arched frame configured to be positioned proximate to the occlusal surface of a user's dental arch such that the arched frame extends beyond the cuspids of the user's dental arch. The arched frame defines a plurality of apertures, and the arched frame includes an adjustment mechanism. The dental device further includes a moldable tray coupled to the arched frame. The moldable tray engages the plurality of apertures and includes a channel configured to engage at least some of the teeth of the user's dental arch. |
| US08671945B2 |
Low-dose transdermal patches with high drug release
The present invention relates to the field of pharmaceutical formulation techniques. The invention provides a low dosage pharmaceutical composition for transdermal delivery of hormones, preferably a progestin, such as a Gestodene, and an estrogen, preferably Ethinylestradiol so as to achieve plasma concentration profiles effective in inhibiting ovulation in a woman. |
| US08671943B2 |
Breathing apparatus
A breathing apparatus including a face piece for covering the whole face or part of the face, an inhale valve and an exhale valve provided on the face piece, a motor fan for supplying external air into the face piece through the inhale valve, a filter for cleaning the external air sucked into the motor fan, a breath monitoring apparatus provided on the face piece and not comprising the inhale valve and the exhale valve, and a controller for controlling the operation of the motor fan synchronously with the breath based on the detection signal from the breath monitoring apparatus. |
| US08671942B2 |
Anesthesia reversal methods and systems
An apparatus for reversing inhaled anesthesia, which may be configured to be positioned along a breathing circuit or anesthesia delivery circuit, includes an anesthesia removal component and a blood flow acceleration component. The blood flow acceleration component facilitates an increase in the ventilation of the individual without resulting in a significant decrease in the individual's PaCO2 level and, thus, a decrease in the rate at which blood flows through the individual's brain. A method of reversing the effects of inhaled anesthesia includes increasing the rate of ventilation of an anesthetized individual while causing the individual to inhale gases with at least atmospheric amounts of CO2. |
| US08671925B2 |
Cam adjustment module for compound archery bow
A cam system for an archery bow including a module that is readily attached to and detached from a cam while leaving the cam on the bow. The module can include a draw stop selectively moveable relative to the module, even while the module is joined with the cam, to adjust the draw stop to specific locations corresponding to different draw lengths and/or draw stop walls of the bow. The module can include a recess that surrounds only part of an axle joining the cam and bow so the entire module is removable from the cam without removing the axle. The cam system can include indexing features that precisely and consistently align features of the cam and module. These features can include first and second indexing posts, and corresponding indexing holes, that register with one another to precisely align the cam and module when joined. |
| US08671919B2 |
Intake device of engine
An intake device of an engine comprises an intake manifold of a four-cylinder inline engine and a water-cooling type of intercooler. The intake manifold includes a downstream branch pipe portion connecting to cylinders, a chamber portion connecting to the downstream branch pipe portion, and an upstream intake pipe portion connecting to the chamber portion. A rectangular opening portion having a vertically-long shape is formed at the upstream intake pipe portion. The intercooler includes an intercooler body portion having a pair of faces which has the widest face-area and faces to each other in an engine width direction. The intercooler body portion is installed in the chamber portion, by being inserted through the rectangular opening portion, so as to divide an inside of the chamber portion into two parts in the engine width direction thereby. |
| US08671914B2 |
High pressure fuel supply pump
In a high pressure fuel supply pump for transmitting rotation of a cam to a reciprocating plunger via a tappet and a retainer, a diametric force acting on the plunger is reduced. The pump includes the retainer disposed on the plunger and a return spring exerting an urging force on the retainer in a direction of the tappet. A clearance between a plunger leading end and a tappet bottom surface opposed thereto is set to be greater than a clearance between a retainer bottom surface and the tappet bottom surface opposed thereto, and a clearance between a retainer inside diameter section and a plunger peripheral surface section opposed thereto is set to be greater than a clearance between a retainer outside diameter section and a tappet inner wall opposed thereto. |
| US08671913B2 |
Determining and correcting the phasing of the angular position of a four-stroke internal combustion engine with indirect injection and time-controlled sequential reinjection/sequential injection cutoff
A method for determining the phasing of the angular position of a four-stroke internal combustion engine with indirect injection and time-controlled sequential reinjection/sequential injection cutoff, characterized in that it includes, with the engine running, the following steps: observing the curve (3, 4) of engine speed (1) as a function of time (2) during a phase of sequential reinjection and/or sequential injection cutoff, performed in accordance with the expected oscillations of the transmission, discriminating, according to the shape of the curve (3, 4), a substantially linear shape (3) being indicative of correct phasing, whereas a substantially sinusoidal shape (4) is indicative of incorrect phasing. |
| US08671907B2 |
Split cycle variable capacity rotary spark ignition engine
A split-cycle variable capacity rotary spark ignition engine system having at least a first rotary configuration (C1) including repetitively volume variable working chambers [60, 61, 62] for carrying out the combustion-expansion and exhaust phases and at least a second rotary configuration (C2) including repetitively volume variable working chambers (70, 71, 72) for carrying out the intake and compression phases of a four phase engine cycle. Dividing seal means (73, 74 of C1, 75, 76 of C2) for periodically dividing each of successive working chambers into a volume enlarging leading portion and a volume contracting trailing portion. Discharge valve means for varying compression chamber capacity through discharging fraction of trapped intake gas from compression chambers. A first phase altering arrangement is provided for varying the phase relation between the first rotary configuration (C1) and the second rotary configuration (C2). A second phase altering arrangement varies phase relation between the discharge valve means and corresponding compression chambers. The first rotary configuration (C1) having variable capacity combustion chambers operatively synchronize with the variable capacity compression chambers of the second rotary configuration (C2) so that accomplish nearly full-load-like combustion environment through a substantially wide engine operating range. |
| US08671903B2 |
System for restarting internal combustion engine when engine restart condition is met
In a system, a pinion shift unit starts shift of a pinion to a ring gear for engagement therebetween during an internal combustion engine coasting in a forward direction after an automatic stop of the internal combustion engine. An engagement determining unit determines whether the pinion and the ring gear have any one of first and second positional relationships therebetween. The first positional relationship represents that the pinion is at least partly engaged with the ring gear. The second positional relationship represents that the pinion is in abutment with the ring gear. When an engine restart condition is met before it is determined that the pinion and the ring gear have any one of first and second positional relationships therebetween after the start of the shift of the pinion to the ring gear, a rotation adjusting unit adjusts a start timing of rotation of the pinion. |
| US08671900B2 |
Device for variably adjusting the control times of gas exchange valves of an internal combustion engine
A device (11) for variably adjusting the control times of gas exchange valves (9, 10) of an internal combustion engine (1), including a drive element (13), an output element (14), and at least one lateral cover (15). The drive element (13) can be brought into driving connection with a crankshaft (2) of the internal combustion engine (1), and the output element (14) can be brought into driving connection with a camshaft (6, 7) of the internal combustion engine (1) and is arranged in a pivotable manner with respect to the drive element (13). The lateral cover (14) lies on an axial lateral surface of the output element (14) or of the drive element (13) and is connected to the drive element (13) or to the output element (14) in a rotationally fixed manner. A spring element (25) lies on the lateral cover face that faces away from the drive and output element (13, 14), and the lateral cover (15) has a disk-shaped portion (23) from which multiple fixing elements (24) protrude in the axial direction, said elements lying on the lateral cover (15) face that faces away from the drive element (13). |
| US08671899B2 |
Rotary valve system
The present invention comprises a rotary valve apparatus for internal combustion engines having a cylindrical outer casing, an inlet port and an outlet port on an outer wall thereof. The cylindrical outer casing having a bottom opening and dimensioned and configured to be secured over an engine cylinder. An inner rotor having a shaft with a first end and a second end, and a lower circular member at the second end. The first end having a plurality of vertical splines and the lower circular member having a cutout portion, a circular end cap having an inlet port and an outlet port disposed within the bottom opening of the outer casing. The inner rotor rotatably mounted on the circular end cap wherein the cutout portion can align with the inlet port or the outlet port and a gear assembly rotating the inner rotor. |
| US08671896B2 |
Variable compression ratio V-type internal combustion engine
The present variable compression ratio V-type internal combustion engine is a variable compression ratio V-type internal combustion engine which joins cylinder blocks of two cylinder groups and makes the joined cylinder block 10 move relatively to a crankcase along an arc-shaped path so as to move away from an engine crankshaft, wherein the arc-shaped path is set so that the mechanical compression ratio of one cylinder group and the mechanical compression ratio of the other cylinder group become equal when the cylinder block is at the lowest position closest to the engine crankshaft and when the cylinder block is at a specific position between the lowest position and a highest position which is furthest from the engine crankshaft. |
| US08671892B2 |
Radiator cooling structure for water-cooled power unit
Disclosed is a radiator cooling structure for cooling a radiator of a water-cooled power unit mounted on a small vehicle and disposed on a laterally outer side of the small vehicle, which radiator cooling structure improves the efficiency of cooling an internal combustion engine by using a head wind. The radiator is provided with a radiator cover having a louver for guiding cooling air to the radiator. The louver is formed such that a rear part thereof is more protruded laterally outward than a front part thereof. The louver of the radiator cover has parallel slats tilting forward, and a lower body cover is provided with a cooling air intake opening capable of guiding a head wind toward the louver positioned obliquely above and rearward of the cooling air intake opening. |
| US08671890B2 |
Pipe assembly
The invention relates to a pipe assembly (102) for use in a boiler. The pipe assembly (102) comprises a pipe (104) having an outer wall (106) adapted for heat exchange. The pipe (104) having heat sensing means (116) located in a recess section of the outer wall (106) thereof, wherein an internal bore (108) of the pipe (104) has a substantially constant cross section in the region of the heat sensing means (116). |
| US08671885B2 |
Vision system for robotic attacher
In certain embodiments, a system includes a controller operable to access a first image generated by a first camera. The controller determines a reference point from at least one main feature of a dairy livestock included in the first image. The controller is further operable to access a second image generated by the second camera. The second image includes at least a portion of an udder of the dairy livestock. The controller determines a location of a teat of the dairy livestock based on the second image. |
| US08671883B2 |
Milking method and apparatus
An animal milking method and apparatus wherein a single milk meter measures the total milk flow from all four quarters of an animals udder, and the data generated by the milk meter is used to detect a departure from a predicted milk flow versus time relationship, indicative of an injured teat or an infected udder quarter, for altering the herdsman to a condition which warrants medical inspection of the animal concerned. |
| US08671882B2 |
Plasma processing apparatus
A plasma processing apparatus capable of, over a prolonged period of time, controlling a decrease in the value of a DC current flowing within an accommodating compartment. The plasma processing apparatus comprises an accommodating compartment adapted to accommodate a substrate and perform a plasma treatment thereon, a high-frequency power source adapted to supply high-frequency power to the inside of the accommodating compartment; a DC electrode adapted to apply a DC voltage to the inside of the accommodating compartment, a ground electrode provided within the accommodating compartment and used for the applied DC voltage, and an exhaust unit adapted to evacuate the inside of the accommodating compartment. |
| US08671880B2 |
Liquid application device and ink jet recording apparatus
The present invention provides a liquid application device and an ink jet recording apparatus each capable of reducing deterioration in application quality due to an increase in the number of times of use of a roller, thereby improving durability. The present invention includes an application roller which applies liquid to an application medium, and a liquid retention member which retains the liquid in a liquid retention space formed by making the application roller be in contact with the retention member. With this structure, a pool of the liquid is formed, with rotation of the application roller, in an area upstream of a contact area, in a rotational direction, between the application member and the retention member at a side where a surface of the application member enters the contact area therebetween. |
| US08671877B2 |
Coating apparatus
A measuring unit 13 is provided inside a rotary drum 11. The measuring unit 13 is provided with a light transmitting member 13a and an optical sensor 13b that are provided at the central region on the inner wall of the other end portion 11b. When particles are subjected to a coating treatment, information as to the properties (such as the coating thickness, the moisture, the coating performance, and the impurity) of the particles of a particle layer A being brought into contact with the surface of the light transmitting member 13a is measured on a real-time basis by the NIR sensor 13b via the light transmitting member 13a. The data is processed by the processing unit of the NRI spectroscopic analyzer to thereby perform monitoring. By appropriately adjusting the coating operation conditions (such as the supplied air volume, the supplied air temperature, the spraying condition, and the rotation speed of the rotary drum 1) by feedback control or a manual operation according to the result, it becomes possible to perform the coating treatment of high quality. |
| US08671872B2 |
Production coater with exchangeable drums
A coater for coating a material with a solution or a suspension includes an access door and a process port separately openable within a housing. A rotating coating drum is removably connected with respect to the coater and the coater is configured for exchange of drums having a wide range of production capacities. |
| US08671870B2 |
Systems and methods for extracting and processing gases from submerged sources
Systems and methods for extracting and processing gases from submerged sources are disclosed. A system for removing and processing a gas from a submerged area in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a membrane or other open-bottom structure having a port and being disposed over at least a portion of the submerged area so as to at least partially enclose a volume of the gas. The system can further include a chemical reactor coupled to the open-bottom structure to receive the gas, and positioned to conduct a non-combustion reaction to dissociate a constituent from a donor substance of the gas. |
| US08671867B1 |
Construction barge
A construction barge having a body with a generally rectilinear configuration, including two substantially vertical side walls and two substantially vertical end walls, together with a top support platform and a bottom platform. The top and bottom platforms may be made of a rigid, yet relatively lightweight construction including a plurality of elongate roll-formed metal sections connected to one another. The side and end walls each include a pair of vertically-spaced connection angles each having a horizontal flange with a plurality of spaced openings. The dimensions of the barge and the configuration of the connection arrangement are designed such that the barge may have a reduced size and/or weight compared to existing barges, yet may be connected to existing barges while floating in a body of water with the top support platforms of the barges properly aligned. |
| US08671865B2 |
Bridle line control winch for a deflector
A bridle line control winch for a deflector for marine towing, with fore and aft double or triple bridle lines to attachment points in upper, possible middle, and lower parts of the deflector, preferably in horizontal plate frames, wherein at least said fore or aft bridle lines are arranged to be adjusted inwardly and outwardly so as for adjusting an attack angle of said deflector relative to a course line. The bridle line control winch is provided with a pivotally arranged control winch frame arranged between said bridle lines' attachment points to the deflector, and the bridle lines themselves. The control winch frame is provided with a winch sheave with an asymmetrically arranged pulley arranged on said winch sheave for holding an eyelet or end of said bridle line. The winch sheave is arranged to be driven by an actuator in a desired direction of rotation. |
| US08671863B2 |
Hull conversion of existing vessels for tank integration
The present disclosure relates to hull conversion of existing vessel for tank integration to allow storage of multiple hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon products onboard the existing vessel. In a converted vessel, a first liquefied hydrocarbon fluid may be stored in an added independent tank, while a second hydrocarbon fluid or a non-hydrocarbon fluid may be stored in an un-converted carge tank, which can be any one of a centre cargo tank, a port side tank or a starboard side tank. |
| US08671862B2 |
Device with microbubble-induced superhydrophobic surfaces for drag reduction and biofouling prevention and device for biofouling prevention
A device with microbubble-induced superhydrophobic surfaces for drag reduction and biofouling prevention includes an anodic microporous plate, a cathodic microporous plate, and a DC power supply. The anodic microporous plate and the cathodic microporous plate are mounted to a hull surface of a ship. The DC power supply includes a positive pole electrically connected to the anodic microporous plate and a negative pole electrically connected to the cathodic microporous plate. Seawater is electrolyzed to generate hydrogen microbubbles adjacent to a surface of the cathodic microporous plate and to generate oxygen microbubbles adjacent to a surface of the anodic microporous plate, forming superhydrophobic surfaces on the surfaces of the anodic microporous plate and the cathodic microporous plate. Electric current flows through the anodic microporous plate and the cathodic microporous plate to prevent biofouling. |
| US08671860B2 |
Punch data generating device and computer readable medium storing punch data generating program
A punch data generating device generating punch data for execution with an embroiderable sewing machine including a needle bar that is moved up and down and mounted with a punch needle for forming penetrations on a workpiece in dot-by-dot strokes, a transfer mechanism transferring the workpiece in two directions in coordination with the movement of the punch needle to form the penetrations. The punch data generating device includes a punch data generator generating punch data, the punch data including at least either of draw data being configured to instruct sequential formation of the penetrations to draw a predetermined pattern, and cut data being configured to instruct sequential formation of the penetrations along an outline of a predetermined pattern to allow cutting of the outline; and a data modifier modifying at least either of the draw data and the cut data to change how the penetrations are to be formed. |
| US08671858B2 |
Servo driven crank adjusted shifting mechanism
A crank adjusted shifting mechanism having a servo driven eccentric in communication with a drive rod and optional clamping assembly provides for a fast and programmable needle bar shifting mechanism for a tufting machine. |
| US08671857B2 |
Variable geometry meter roller
An agricultural metering device with a variable geometry meter roller is provided. The agricultural metering device includes a meter roller having a plurality of flutes. An aggregate cross sectional area of the flutes increases along a longitudinal axis of the meter roller. |
| US08671855B2 |
Apparatus for treating waste
A waste treatment system processes waste upon the application of energy. The system includes a vessel that contains an open space. A waste feed system feeds inorganic and/or organic waste into the open space of the vessel. One or more pairs of electrodes are within the vessel and may be supported above a bottom of the vessel. The electrodes generate energy that heats the vessel's open space, and melts inorganic portions of the waste and gasifies and dissociates organic portions of the waste into elemental components. These elemental components may be reformed into a synthesis gas which may be conditioned and cleaned to recovery a non-hazardous product. |
| US08671852B2 |
Modular folding table
The modular folding table includes a collapsible truss framework that supports a folding table top and a folding utility shelf, and includes legs that can be connected horizontally or vertically to the legs of one or more similar modular folding tables, to provide desired table and shelf space with a structure that is foldable, strong and stable. |
| US08671844B2 |
Railway vehicular power converter
A railway vehicular power converter adapted to be fixed beneath a floor of a railway vehicle has a power conversion unit, a housing, and a plurality of L-shaped securing members provided at upper end parts of an outer surface of the housing for fixing beneath the floor of the railway vehicle. The plurality of securing members is reinforced by reinforcing members provided inside the housing and attached behind the surface of the housing where the securing members are disposed. Each of the reinforcing members has a C-channel having a length substantially the same as a length of the housing in a shorter direction thereof, and has two edges in the shorter direction bent at least once. |
| US08671843B2 |
Automatic carriage return for exhaust removal system
An automatic carriage return for an exhaust removal system having a carriage that is configured to translate along a track tube. The automatic carriage return includes a drive cable spanning along the track tube, and an engagement assembly coupled to the carriage. A drive motor drives motion of the carriage along the drive cable when the engagement assembly is in the engaged configuration. In the disengaged configuration, the engagement assembly is configured to be disengaged from the drive cable to allow the carriage to freely follow the path of the vehicle. Upon release of the extraction hose from the vehicle, the engagement assembly is configured to automatically activate to the engaged configuration to engage the drive cable. |
| US08671840B2 |
Flexible fragmentation sleeve
A flexible fragmentation sleeve for use with a non-fragmenting explosive device is provided. The flexible fragmentation sleeve comprises a flexible cylindrical wall extending between opposing first and second ends along a longitudinal axis. The cylindrical wall includes an inner liner and an outer liner concentric to the inner liner. A first set of coupling elements extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical wall, and couple the inner liner with the outer liner. A second set of coupling elements extend circumferentially along the cylindrical wall. The second set of coupling elements is substantially perpendicular to the first set of coupling elements, and couple the inner liner with the outer liner. A plurality of pockets is defined intermediate the inner liner and the outer liner, and intermediate the first set of coupling elements and the second set of coupling elements. The flexible fragmentation sleeve of the illustrative embodiment further includes a plurality of fragmentation members. At least one fragmentation member is illustratively received within each pocket. |
| US08671839B2 |
Projectile and munition including projectile
A projectile (and munition including the projectile) and a method of assembling the same, includes a body having a cavity, a propellant disposed in the cavity and a base including an ignition flash column extending into the cavity containing the propellant and a nozzle formed so as to be openable and closeable. |
| US08671838B2 |
Method for hybrid inline color control for printing presses
A method for color control in printing presses having at least one first color measuring instrument and at least one second color measuring instrument, includes registering at least one first inking zone on a printing material with the first color measuring instrument and registering at least one other, second inking zone on the printing material with the second color measuring instrument. In a first step, a color difference between actual colorations of the first and second inking zones is calculated, in a second step, a color difference between an actual coloration of the first inking zone and a desired coloration of the second inking zone is calculated and, in a further step, the calculated color differences are added and supplied to a color control for the second inking zone. |
| US08671836B2 |
Numbering device for typographic numbering
There is described a numbering device (1) for carrying out numbering in sheet-fed or web-fed numbering presses, the numbering device (1) comprising a numbering unit (6) with rotatable numbering wheels (7) carrying alpha-numerical symbols thereon, which numbering wheels (7) are disposed next to each other and rotate about a common rotation axis, the numbering device (1) further comprising electro-mechanical actuation means for setting the position of the numbering wheels (7). The electro-mechanical actuation means are entirely located within the numbering device (1) and are mechanically autonomous, the electro-mechanical actuation means comprising a plurality of independent driving means (15, 18-23; 23*) for actuating a corresponding plurality of the numbering wheels. |
| US08671832B2 |
Food processor with an external control for adjusting cutting thickness
A food processor includes a bowl with a removable lid. Food items are advanced into the bowl through a feed tube formed in the lid where they are cut by a cutting assembly. The cutting assembly is adjustable to vary the thickness of the cut food items. A user-operated control device adjusts the cutting thickness of the cutting assembly. The control device is located outside of the bowl. |
| US08671830B2 |
Cooking appliance having integrated batter imprinting surfaces
A cooking device for cooking both a stick-mounted food item and a fluid batter. The cooking device including a pair of opposed cooking plates that receive the food item and batter in a reservoir. The reservoir includes raised and recessed surfaces that imprint a recognizable design, shape, or indicia on the outer surface of the cooked batter. The cooking plates are rotatable together about a central axis to allow the batter to flow around the food item as the batter and food item cook. |
| US08671827B2 |
Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatuses
Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension. |
| US08671825B2 |
Fluid pressure cylinder
When a fluid pressure cylinder (1) is in a maximum expansion state, a piston (40) contacts a cylinder head (30). The cylinder head (30) is fixed to a cylinder tube (10) by a plurality of head bolts (12). The cylinder head (30) includes a pipe attachment seat (36), and the head bolts (12) are disposed in a first region (A) that avoids the pipe attachment seat (36). A non-contact portion in which contact is avoided between the piston (40) and the cylinder head (30) is formed in a second region (B) other than the first region (A), and therefore, when the fluid pressure cylinder (1) is in the maximum expansion state, a tensile load acting on the head bolts (12) on either side of the first region (A) can be suppressed to become equal to a tensile load acting on the other head bolts (12). |
| US08671823B2 |
Pneumatic brake servo
A pneumatic brake servo which can be acted on by a pneumatic differential pressure is described. The brake servo includes an actuable input member comprising a valve piston, an output member for acting on a master brake cylinder, and a control valve which is arranged in a control housing and which can be actuated by the valve piston for controlling the differential pressure. An elastic reaction element is arranged in a control housing recess and against which the output member bears. The input member acts with an input effective area A1 on the reaction element, and the output member acts with an output effective area A2 on the reaction element. The ratio of output effective area A2 to input effective area A1 determines the force boost ratio of the brake servo.Means are provided for adjusting the output effective area A2 in the assembled brake servo. |
| US08671822B2 |
Fluid driven reciprocating linear motor
A reciprocating linear motor powered by one directional fluid flow is provided, having small external diameter, optimized for length, with few moving parts and effective seals, low mass and thus low inertia in direction changes. The motor provides reciprocating linear powered motion for use by attached equipment such as a pump, chisel, hammer, valve, or other machine requiring such power. |
| US08671821B1 |
Method of providing a defense against a shaped charge
A method of providing a defense against a shaped charge uses an outer and an inner armor layer provided with a medial space between these outer and inner armor layers. One or more defensive shaped charges are positioned in the medial space. If the outer armor layer is attacked by ordnance having an offensive shaped charge, one or more of the defensive shaped charges positioned in the medial space is detonated so as to degrade the effectiveness of the offensive shaped charge and prevent penetration of the inner armor layer. |
| US08671818B1 |
Firearm discharge gas flow control
A firearm discharge gas flow control device can comprise a first gas chamber fluidly connectable to a muzzle end of a firearm to allow a projectile to pass through and to receive a first portion of a discharge gas generated by firing the projectile. The device can also comprise a second gas chamber fluidly isolated from the first gas chamber and fluidly connectable to the muzzle end of the firearm to receive a second portion of the discharge gas, the second gas chamber having a flow control barrier to modify a flow of the second portion of the discharge gas. |
| US08671815B2 |
Self-expanding pseudo-braided intravascular device
A self-expanding, pseudo-braided device embodying a high expansion ratio and flexibility as well as comformability and improved radial force. The pseudo-braided device is particularly suited for advancement through and deployment within highly tortuous and very distal vasculature. Various forms of the pseudo-braided device are adapted for the repair of aneurysms and stenoses as well as for use in thrombectomies and embolic protection therapy. |
| US08671814B2 |
Blast treatment method and blast treatment device
A blast treatment method capable of performing blast treatment of a treatment subject with a simple structure, with high efficiency, and at low cost, while inhibiting scattering of harmful substances or the like to the outside. The method includes: inside disposing an inside explosive for blasting a treatment subject around the treatment subject; disposing an outside explosive having a detonation velocity greater than that of the inside explosive at a position outside the inside explosive; and detonating the outside explosive using an initiation device, and initiating the inside explosive by detonation of the outside explosive, thereby performing blast treatment of the treatment subject by initiation of the inside explosive. The outside explosive disposing includes arranging a cord-like explosive member containing the outside explosive and having a shape extending in one direction so that a detonation propagation velocity in a specific direction of the inside explosive initiated by the outside explosive is greater than a detonation propagation velocity in the specific direction of the inside explosive. |
| US08671811B2 |
Pivoting saw system
A portable table saw in one embodiment includes a base, a first support post and a second support post, each of the first and second support post extending upwardly to a location higher than the base, at least one support rail having a first end portion supported by the first support post and a second end portion supported by the second support post, a saw movably mounted to the at least one support rail at a location between the first end portion and the second end portion, the saw positioned above the base and movable along the at least one support rail, and a first pivot mechanism configured to pivot the saw with respect to the base. |
| US08671808B2 |
Wrench with universal driving part
A wrench includes a body having a driving head which has a ratchet mechanism having a rotatable ratchet gear. An engaging hole is defined in one side of the ratchet gear and a groove is defined in the inner periphery of the engaging hole. A stop portion extends from the other side of the ratchet gear. A universal connector has a driving part extending from the first end thereof and a head is located on the second end of the universal connector. The head is located within the engaging hole and swingable relative to the axis of the head and non-rotatable relative to the axis of the head. A resilient member is located in the engaging hole and located between the stop portion and the head. A clip is engaged with the groove so as to restrict the universal connector from dropping out from the engaging hole. |
| US08671799B2 |
Quick release device for a pedal
A quick release device for a pedal includes a spindle, a connecting unit connected to the spindle, and a quick release mechanism connected to the connecting unit. The spindle has a protrusion extending from one end thereof and an annular groove defined in an outer peripheral thereof. The connecting unit has a receiving hole defined therein, a guiding hole defined in a lateral thereof and communicated with the receiving hole, and a retaining hole defined therein and communicated with the receiving hole. The quick release mechanism includes a rod partially received in the guiding hole and a spring biased against the rod toward the receiving hole. In assembly the protrusion engages with the retaining hole and the rod engages with the annular groove. |
| US08671798B2 |
Compression ring for an isolator in a motion transmitting remote control assembly
An annular isolator (68, 70) is disposed in an open ended bore (66) of a support body (58) and surrounds an end fitting (26, 28) for attenuating vibrations therebetween. A cap (74) is disposed on the support body (58) to close the open ended bore (66). An inflexible compression ring (76) is sandwiched axially between the isolator (68, 70) and the cap (74) and in abutting engagement with a stop (78) to limit compression of the isolator (68, 70) from the cap (74). The compression ring (76) is inserted into the bore (66) prior to molding the cap (74) to limit compression of the isolator (68, 70) during fabrication. |
| US08671797B2 |
Device for automatic adjustment of tension applied to a control cable
Device for automatic adjustment of tension applied to a control cable has a container element, a first sliding element sliding in the container element, a second sliding element sliding in the first sliding element and connected to a duct of a control cable. A sphere for constraining the translation of the sliding elements is in the container, housed in a seating formed in the first sliding element and having at least one lower portion in contact with the second sliding element and at least one upper portion that can contact the container, there being also provided a first operating on the first sliding element and a second helical spring operating on the second sliding element. |
| US08671795B2 |
Locking mechanism for an adjustable steering column having impact teeth
A steering column assembly includes a mounting bracket and a column jacket moveable relative to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket defines a rake slot having rake slot teeth and a telescope slot having telescope slot teeth. A shaft extends through the rake slot and the telescope slot transverse to a longitudinal axis of the column jacket. A rake lock having rake lock teeth is disposed within the rake slot and a telescope lock having telescope lock teeth is disposed within the telescope slot. The shaft extends through and rotatably supports the rake lock and the telescope lock. The rake lock and the telescope lock rotate as the rake lock and the telescope lock move into interlocking toothed engagement with the slot teeth to avoid peak-to-peak contact between the lock teeth and the slot teeth, thereby permitting full meshing engagement between the lock teeth and the slot teeth. |
| US08671793B2 |
Lubrication of a rotatable shaft
A machine has a shaft rotatable in at least one lubricated bearing. A lubricant duct for lubricating the bearing extends along the first shaft. A turbine, having blades engaging radially in the lubricant duct and oriented warped to the axis of the first shaft, is situated in the lubricant duct. |
| US08671787B2 |
Drive device
An output shaft, to which the rotational force of a motor is transmitted, is rotatably supported and housed in a case. One end of the output shaft protrudes from the case, and a pinion gear is provided on this one end. Teeth that mesh with the pinion gear are provided on the outer circumferential surface of cables. A guide member for guiding the cables in such a way that they mesh with the pinion gear is mounted on the case. An urging plate portion that presses against the side of the pinion gear is provided on the guide member. The urging plate portion urges the output shaft in the axial direction and, as a result, rattle of the output shaft is alleviated. |
| US08671786B2 |
Engine starter control apparatus
A starter control apparatus is provided which is used with a starter equipped with a pinion engageable with a ring gear coupled to an output shaft of an engine and a motor operable to rotate the pinion to crank the engine. The starter control apparatus works to determine whether the engine has been placed to continue to run by itself after cranked by the motor or not. When such a condition is encountered, the starter control apparatus releases the engagement of the pinion with the ring gear while keeping the pinion rotated by the motor, thereby decreasing the torque exerted by the ring gear on the pinion to minimize the wear of the pinion. |
| US08671785B2 |
Automated animal bite simulator for testing cables
Methods, devices, and storage media provide for receiving a selection of parameters pertaining to an animal; receiving a selection of parameters pertaining to an animal interaction with a cable; simulating the animal interaction based on the selection of parameters pertaining to the animal and the animal interaction; collecting test data during the simulating; and storing the test data. |
| US08671784B2 |
Body movement detecting apparatus and body movement detecting method
There is provided a body movement detecting apparatus including: a body movement data acquiring unit configured to detect a body movement of a user and acquire body movement data relating to the body movement; a memory unit configured to memorize the body movement data corresponding to the type of an activity of the user as registered body movement data; a body movement determining unit configured to compare the body movement data acquired by the body movement data acquiring unit with the registered body movement data and determine the type of the activity of the user; and a computing unit configured to be able to calculate consumed energy by the body movement corresponding to the type of the activity determined by the body movement determining unit. |
| US08671783B2 |
Sample chamber adapter, in particular for the cryoconservation of biological samples
An adapter device includes a receptacle including at least one receiving element that detachably secures a sample chamber for cryoconservation of a biological sample, and a coupling device that connects the receptacle to a base section which can be secured in a cooling device, wherein the receiving element is 1) immobile in a holding state at a cryoconservation temperature and secures the sample chamber and 2) at least one of deformable and movable in a release state at a temperature above the cryoconservation temperature so that the sample chamber is detachable from the adapter device or can be inserted into the adapter device. |
| US08671781B2 |
Method for detecting a developing torque for a hybrid drive
A method for detecting a developing torque for a hybrid drive, the hybrid drive having a first drive unit, in particular an electric motor, and a second drive unit, in particular an internal combustion engine, the drive units being coupleable with the aid of a separating clutch, wherein the separating clutch is brought into a predefined engaged position, the torque of the first drive unit is changed, and the developing torque is detected at the predefined engaged position as a function of the change in the torque of the first drive unit. |
| US08671779B2 |
Balance system for a vibrating flow meter
According to the present invention, a vibrating flow meter and method of operating a vibrating flow meter are provided. The vibrating flow meter includes a conduit (210), at least one pick-off (230, 231), a driven member (250), at least one driver (220), and a base (260). The conduit (210) defines a fluid flow path. The at least one pick-off (230, 231) measures the motion of the conduit (210). The at least one driver (220) vibrates the conduit (210) and the driven member (250) in phase opposition. The base (260) is coupled to the conduit (210) and the driven member (250) and switches between remaining substantially stationary or moving substantially in phase with the conduit (210) or moving substantially in phase with the driven member (250) in order to balance the motion of the conduit (210) and the driven member (250). |
| US08671778B2 |
Coriolis flow meter with improved mode separation
A flow meter (20) including one or more flow tubes (103) and a driver (104A, 104B) adapted to vibrate the one or more flow tubes (103) at a drive frequency is provided. The flow meter (20) comprises a gusset (260). The gusset (260) is coupled to and extends along the flow tube (103) such that a frequency separation between the drive frequency and at least a second vibration frequency is increased. |
| US08671777B2 |
Coriolis mass flowmeter with thermally, electrically, and magnetically isolated electronics
A Coriolis mass flowmeter (1) having at least one sensor arrangement (2), at least one transducer (3) and at least one housing (4), wherein the sensor arrangement (2) has at least one measuring tube (5) that can be excited to oscillation, at least one oscillation generator (6) and at least one oscillation sensor (7), wherein the transducer (3) at least in part has evaluation and power electronics for controlling and measurement evaluation of the sensor arrangement, wherein the sensor arrangement (2) and the transducer (3) are arranged adjacent to one another in a common volume defined by the housing (4). A Coriolis mass flowmeter of the described type, in which the physical interaction between the sensor arrangement and transducer is reduced, is realized by the provision of a thermal barrier (8) arranged at least in a space between the sensor arrangement (2) and the transducer (3). |
| US08671772B2 |
Quality assurance and reliability testing apparatus for RFID tags
A novel RFID tag-bending test apparatus and a related method of using the novel RFID tag-bending test apparatus are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, the novel RFID tag-bending test apparatus can place a plurality of RFID tags in corresponding tag holding clips on the novel RFID tag-bending test apparatus to execute a bending test sequence along a particular bending axis for each RFID tag. The bending test sequence can assist identifying defective RFID tags which cannot overcome external bending pressures asserted by the novel RFID tag-bending test apparatus. By excluding these defective RFID tags from a commercial shipment of RFID tags to customers, a manufacturer of RFID tags may be able to reduce a rate of premature RFID tag failures due to external bending pressures in real-life applications of RFID tags, thereby achieving a higher quality assurance and reliability of RFID tags. |
| US08671771B2 |
Biaxial tensile testing machine
A biaxial tensile testing machine performing a tensile test of a test piece by stretching the test piece in four directions along two axes perpendicular to each other includes: first and second turntables which are disposed so as to be parallel to each other and relatively rotatable about a rotary axis along the planer direction thereof; first to fourth link mechanisms which are provided at 90° intervals in the circumferential direction about the rotary axis so that one ends of respective members of a pair of members are rotatably connected to each other, and the other ends of respective members of the pair of members are attached across the first and second turntables; and first to fourth test piece holding units which are respectively attached to the first to fourth link mechanisms and hold the test piece. |
| US08671769B2 |
Device for measuring deformation of a structure and a method for measuring deformation of a structure using the same
The present invention is directed to a device for measuring a deformation ratio of a structure which includes a photonic crystal layer containing nanoparticles aligned at a certain interval. The device is useful for detecting when various industrial structures are deformed by a working load. The presence of deformation and the deformation ratio in the structures may be simply and easily measured by measuring the change of structural color or magnetic flux in the device. The device may be useful to prevent accidents due to excessive deformation in structures. |
| US08671764B2 |
Low pass filter semiconductor structures for use in transducers for measuring low dynamic pressures in the presence of high static pressures
A semiconductor filter is provided to operate in conjunction with a differential pressure transducer. In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving, at a filter, a pressure, wherein the pressure includes a static pressure component and a dynamic pressure component; filtering, by the filter, at least the dynamic pressure component of the pressure; outputting, from the filter, a filtered pressure; receiving, at a first surface of a diaphragm, the pressure; receiving, at a second surface of the diaphragm, the filtered pressure, wherein the second surface of the diaphragm is operatively coupled to the filter; and measuring, at a sensor operatively coupled to the diaphragm, a difference between the pressure and the filtered pressure. |
| US08671761B2 |
Method of assessing bolted joint integrity
A method of assessing bolted joint integrity. A guided wave is sent through a structure containing at least one bolted joint. The guided wave that is subsequently propagated through the structure and interacted with the bolted joint is measured to obtain a measured result. At least one parameter of the guided wave after its travel through the structure, and after having been affected by a nonlinear acoustic behavior of the bolted joint, is analyzed. Either at least one guided wave parameter is compared to a wave propagation pattern of the bolted joint at a correct torque level, or variation of at least one guided wave parameter is compared, to determine changes in wave propagation time and/or wave propagation shape. An incorrect torque level of the bolted joint is inferred from any changes that are determined. |
| US08671760B2 |
Drivable device for compacting a soil layer structure and method for ascertaining a layer modulus of elasticity of an uppermost layer of this soil layer structure
The present invention relates to a drivable device for compacting a soil layer structure, having at least one vibration means or device, such as a vibration roller or a vibration plate, via which load pulses (P), which compact the soil layer structure, can be introduced into at least one load introduction area. At least one first and one second detection means or devices for detecting the modulus of elasticity of the soil layer structure are provided, which are situated spaced apart from one another on the drivable device in such a way that the first detection means or device allows a detection in the load introduction area and at least the second detection means or devices allows a detection outside the load introduction area. The present invention also relates to a method for ascertaining a layer modulus of elasticity. |
| US08671759B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring amount of material removed from target in pulsed laser ablation
A method for measuring the amount of material removed from a target in pulsed laser ablation is provided. The method includes generating a laser beam with a laser generator for ablating the target; driving the laser generator with a delay generator; acquiring the acoustic signal generated when the target is being ablated by the laser beam and generating an electrical signal accordingly with a microphone; amplifying the electrical signal generated by the microphone with a pre-amplifier; displaying an acoustic waveform indicating the intensity of the acoustic signal generated when the target is being ablated by the laser beam with a digital oscilloscope connected to the delay generator and the pre-amplifier; and deducing the amount of material removed from the target in the pulsed laser ablation according to the acoustic waveform in real time. An apparatus for performing the method is also provided. |
| US08671758B2 |
System and method for measuring the frequency of a vibrating object
A system and method for measuring a frequency of a wire in a vibrating wire gauge. The system may include a signal generator for generating a signal at a frequency that matches a frequency of the wire vibration and an excitation unit for exciting the wire to increase an amplitude of the wire vibration. The excitation unit may excite the wire using the signal. The system may further include a signal gate for controlling when the signal is sent to the excitation unit. |
| US08671757B2 |
Micromechanical component
A micromechanical component which has a substrate, a seismic mass, which is deflectably situated on the substrate, and a stop structure for limiting a deflection of the seismic mass in a direction away from the substrate. The stop structure is situated on the substrate and has a limiting section for limiting the deflection of the seismic mass, which is in a plane with the seismic mass. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a micromechanical component is described. |
| US08671755B2 |
Angular velocity detection circuit and angular velocity detection apparatus
An angular velocity detection circuit is connected to a resonator for making excited vibration on the basis of a drive signal and detects an angular velocity. The angular velocity detection circuit includes: a self-vibration component extraction unit that receives, from the resonator, a detection signal including an angular velocity component based on a Coriolis force and a self-vibration component based on the excited vibration of the resonator and extracts the self-vibration component from the detection signal; a direct-current conversion unit including an integration unit that integrates an output signal of the self-vibration component extraction unit; and an offset addition unit that adds an offset value to an output signal of the direct-current conversion unit. |
| US08671754B2 |
Sensor device
In various embodiments, a sensor device is provided. The sensor includes a sensor receiving portion, a sensor arranged in the sensor receiving portion and a cap covering the sensor and the sensor receiving portion. The cap includes a plurality of recesses in the inner side wall of the cap for reducing the pressure measured by the sensor. |
| US08671752B2 |
Sensor system
A sensor system includes a supporting element and a sensor element attached to the supporting element and having a main plane of extension. The supporting element has (i) at least one contact element for electrical contacting of the sensor system and (ii) at least one relief structure for stress decoupling, the at least one relief structure being situated in a plane parallel to the main plane of extension essentially between the at least one contact element and the sensor element. |
| US08671748B2 |
Pressure sensor with internal bellows
A pressure sensor includes an outer body defining a sensor cavity and a resonator element located at least partially within the sensor cavity. The pressure sensor also includes a bellows having an outer side and an inner side and that is located at least partially within the outer body. the inner side of the bellows defines an internal volume and is configured to receive a measured fluid into the internal volume. The pressure sensor also includes a measuring fluid filling at least a portion of an area between the outer side and the outer body. |
| US08671747B1 |
TPMS monitor mounting bracket
A TPMS monitor mounting bracket consisting of a flat square base having a centrally located clearance hole therein. The bracket includes an upward-extending S-shaped angular arm that is integral with the base. The bracket also includes a first flat mounting surface located on the same horizontal plane above the square base, and includes a centered first tapped hole. An upward-extending inverted V-shaped angular arm having a second flat mounting surface integral with and positioned essentially 87-degrees from the square base, and having an centered second tapped hole therein. A hollow screw is disposed within the square base clearance hole for attachment to a tire inflation valve, and a threaded screw engages the S-shaped angular arm tapped hole for attachment of a TPMS monitor into a steel or aluminum wheel. |
| US08671743B2 |
Test equipment manifold interface
A test equipment manifold interface for automated test equipment (ATE) for testing electronic circuits by both Device Under Test Thermal Management (DTM) and non-DTM testing. The manifold interface has a housing, with an air inlet aperture, outlet apertures, and a chamber. The chamber has a chamber inlet provided by the air inlet aperture and a chamber outlet coupled to the outlet apertures. A hollow piston is captive in the chamber. The piston has DTM interface inlet and outlet apertures. In operation, when a DTM load board manifold engages the manifold interface, the hollow piston directs air to flow from the air inlet aperture to the DTM interface outlet aperture. When the DTM load board manifold disengages the manifold interface, the hollow piston directs air to flow from the air inlet to the outlet apertures via the chamber outlet. |
| US08671731B2 |
Progressively stamped clip-on noise damping shim for friction assembly, and method and apparatus for producing clip-on noise damping shim
A noise damping shim for a friction assembly is produced by a pre-slit step and a bend and blank step. The pre-slit step forms pre-slits in a shim material at locations where tabs of a noise damping shim are to be formed. The bend and blank step bends each of the tabs at a bent angle relative to the shim material while simultaneously blanking a shim body from the shim material to produce a noise damping shim having bent tabs extending outwardly from a periphery of the shim body. |
| US08671725B2 |
Key and lock assemblies
The present invention is directed to key assemblies and their mating locks, and more particularly, to keys with mutually compressible, actuating elements capable of being continuously positioned axially within apertures in a key blade. |
| US08671721B2 |
Lock structure
A lock structure for an electrical device is provided. The lock structure includes a rotatable fastener, a lock body, an operation device, and a housing. The lock body is disposed at least partially in the housing, connected with the operation device, and couples with a driving portion. When the lock body is in an unlocked state, the lock body allows the driving portion to move the rotatable fastener. Simultaneously, the operation device can move the driving portion to change the orientation of the rotatable fastener, resulting in the connection/detachment of the lock structure and the electronic device. When the lock body is in a locked state, movement of the driving portion is restricted and the operation device cannot directly or indirectly rotate the rotatable fastener, resulting in the secure connection of the lock structure and the electronic device. |
| US08671720B2 |
Drum washing machine
A drum washing machine is provided to automatically wash out dirt on the door of the washing machine upon an operation of the washing machine. The drum washing machine comprises a cabinet having a door unit; a tub disposed inside the cabinet, the tub being configured to store water; a drum rotatably disposed inside the tub; and a circulator for simultaneously or selectively spraying wash water into the drum and toward the door unit. |
| US08671717B2 |
Photovoltaic device having low iron high transmission glass with lithium oxide for reducing seed free time and corresponding method
A high transmission and low iron glass is provided for use in a photovoltaic device such as a solar cell. The glass substrate may be patterned on at least one surface thereof. In certain example embodiments, a combination of lithium oxide, antimony oxide, and salt cake is used in the glass to improve the refining conditions by lowering the melting temperature of the batch, thereby resulting in a quicker seed free time in the manufacturing process. |
| US08671716B2 |
Method of manufacturing vitreous silica crucible
There is provided a method of manufacturing a vitreous silica crucible having non-bubbles on the inner surface without necessitating new apparatuses for grinding and polishing and without damaging the productivity. According to the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a vitreous silica crucible including the processes of: gathering a vitreous silica layer containing residual bubbles existing in a near-surface region of the transparent layer of the vitreous silica crucible by controlling the number of rotations applied to the vitreous silica crucible in a state that an inner surface side of the vitreous silica crucible is fused by arc heating; and moving a portion of a non-bubble layer in the surface of the transparent layer exposed by movement of the residual bubble-containing layer to cover a region in which bubbles have gathered with the non-bubble layer. |
| US08671710B2 |
Ventilation device and the refrigerator having the same
A ventilation device of a refrigerator is configured to prevent freezing of condensed water. The condensed water does not accumulate at the corresponding portion, and hence formation of ice is prevented. The generation of noise and the change of the efficiency of the ventilation fan do not occur, and the risk of ice contacting the shroud of the ventilation fan is reduced and reliability may be improved. |
| US08671708B2 |
Ice storage device and refrigerator including the same and a water purifier including the same
An ice storage device and a refrigerator and purifier including the ice storage device are disclosed. The ice storage device includes an ice storage box, a plurality of ice outlets provided in the ice storage box and an ice transfer member provided in the ice storage box, to transfer ice to the plurality of the ice outlets selectively. An object of the present invention is to provide an ice storage device capable of discharging ice along various directions, and a refrigerator and purifier including the ice storage device. |
| US08671704B2 |
Refrigeration system with intermediate pressure vapor supply valve
A refrigeration system includes a compressor; a condenser connected to a first inlet of a separator which has: a vapor outlet connected to the compressor and a liquid outlet connected to an evaporator; a selecting valve having: a first vapor inlet connected to the evaporator; a second vapor inlet connected to the separator; and a vapor outlet connected to the compressor, the selecting valve being operated to selectively and alternatively communicate its first and second vapor inlets with its vapor outlet, so as to allow the compressor to draw vapor from the separator and from the evaporator; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the selecting valve. |
| US08671701B2 |
Methods to store human breast milk
Methods for storing human breast milk, preserving its natural flavor and nutritional content. Through the use of an apparatus such as a breast pump, breast milk is expressed from a lactating woman. The milk is transferred through a fill line into a storage container. After the container is substantially filled with breast milk, the fill line is decoupled from the breast pump output, and a vacuum is applied to the line. After the remaining air is evacuated from the container, an isolation valve in the fill line is closed, sealing the container in an evacuated condition. The fill line is removed from the valve, and the container is placed into a freezer or refrigerator for storage. When ready for use, the container is removed from the freezer or refrigerator, the milk is thawed, and the vacuum is broken, allowing removal of the milk for transfer to a bottle. |
| US08671697B2 |
Pumping system resistant to cavitation
Techniques herein describe a pumping system, adapted to reduce or eliminate fluid cavitation. Optionally, the pumping system is adapted for application to a passive fluid recovery system. In one example, the pumping system includes a pump and a thermal sub-cooling device. The thermal sub-cooling device may sub-cool fluid input to a pump and heat fluid output from the pump, particularly under start-up conditions. In a further example, a controller manages power supplied to both the pump and the thermal sub-cooling device, to transition from an ambient temperature start-up condition to an elevated temperature operating condition. |