| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08679060B2 |
Infusion pump system
An infusion pump system is described that increases patient comfort and convenience. The infusion pump system includes an infusion site interface that is releasably connected to an infusion pump body, and has no tubing associated between the infusion site interface and the pump body. The infusion pump body may include a carrier frame that may be adhered to the skin of a user. |
| US08679058B2 |
System for treating arterial obstructions
An apparatus, a kit and a method for rapidly restoring blood flow through, and removing a clot from, a blood vessel by chemical dissolution. The essential components include an instrument for preventing the flow of debris downstream of the clot, a coronary catheter constructed to be introduced into the blood vessel and a double balloon catheter that has a tapered tip and that can form an enclosed space containing the clot and via which dissolution fluid can be brought into contact with the clot. |
| US08679056B1 |
Syringe
A syringe including a tube, a first plunger, a second plunger and a plunger rod assembly is disclosed. The tube has one end serving as an injection end and the other end coupled with a cap. The first plunger is disposed in the tube. A filled portion extends through the first plunger. A first chamber is formed between the first plunger and the injection end. The second plunger is disposed in the tube and has a fixing hole. A second chamber is formed between the first and second plungers. The plunger rod assembly comprises a rod and a blocker. The rod has a neck portion and at least one engaging portion. The blocker is arranged on one side of the neck portion and is capable of being inserted into the filled portion. The blocker is capable of being removed from the first plunger and being received in the fixing hole. |
| US08679050B2 |
Gas mist pressure bathing cover
The present invention is to provide a gas mist pressure bathing cover which is simple in a structure and easy in pressurization. The gas mist pressure bathing cover 1, in which a mist (called as “gas mist” hereafter) is prepared at a density of not less than a predetermined value by pulverizing and dissolving carbon dioxide, oxygen, otherwise a mixed gas (called as “gas” hereafter) of carbon dioxide and oxygen and a liquid, and the thus prepared gas mist is contacted to the skin and mucous membrane of a living organism, comprises a living organism covering member 11 for covering the skin and mucous membrane of the living organism, a gas mist supply port 12 for introducing the gas mist into the living organism covering member and having a back-flow checking valve inside of the living organism covering member 11, a discharge port 13 for adjusting air, gas and pressure of the gas mist within the living organism covering member, and a pressure means 21 winding round an outer periphery of the living organism covering member at its opening portion in order to reduce its diameter and tighten the living organism covering member. |
| US08679046B2 |
Supporting device
The invention relates to a supporting device for a support (12) used to support a lower extremity, in particular a knee joint, a lower leg, a foot or an ankle, an upper leg support (14) and a lower leg support (16) being provided and interconnected via an articulation (17), the upper leg support (14) comprises at least a load-bearing surface (24, 28), the lower leg support (16) comprises at least a load-bearing surface (31), a support fixing (18) is provided, which engages with the support (12), the lower leg support (16) and the support fixing (18) being coupled to one another for the transfer of force. |
| US08679045B2 |
Supinating arm and elbow brace
An arm brace including an extendable band, such as an elastic strap, that forms a supinating tension band. The distal end the band has a looped section for a user's wrist or finger for anchoring the brace, and the proximal end has a fastening device, such as a hook and loop fastener, for securing the proximal end to another portion of band after the band is wrapped around the forearm and stretched around the elbow and back towards the forearm. The extended band exerts a force that causes supination of the arm. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the proximal end of the band attaches to the outer surface of the band, and the looped section has a loop that closes at a notched section of the band, to provide proper comfort and positioning. |
| US08679043B2 |
Finger orthosis
A finger orthosis for moving a joint of a finger is provided. The finger orthosis includes a first cuff configured to couple to a first finger portion, a second cuff configured to couple to a second finger portion, and an actuator member coupled to said first and second cuffs, said actuator member configured to provide relative rotation between said first and second cuffs when a force is applied to said actuator member. |
| US08679041B2 |
Joint drive leg link mechanism and walking auxiliary equipment
A joint drive type link mechanism provided with a link including a joint portion at an intermediary thereof, and a driving source for the joint portion, wherein a link member configuring the link is mounted with the driving source and electric components used for the control of the driving source, in which the link is prevented from being heated by the heat of the electric components is provided. The link member includes an interior space in which the electric components are arranged and has the driving source is arranged thereon with an air inlet connecting to the interior space and an exhaust outlet for exhausting the air passing through the interior space. Further, the interior space is provided with fans as well as a heat sink for cooling the air after air-cooling the electric components. |
| US08679033B2 |
Tissue penetration device
A sampling module includes a module body portion with a lancet channel, a lancet slidably disposed within the lancet channel. A cover sheet is disposed over the lancet and a lancet channel that captures the lancet shaft in the lancet channel, and a sample reservoir for collection of a sample obtained by lancing a patient with the lancet. |
| US08679031B2 |
Hearing prosthesis with integrated sensors for measuring pressure in a cochlea
The present application discloses a hearing prosthesis comprising a stimulation assembly configured to be implanted into a cochlea. The stimulation assembly comprises a plurality of electrodes and one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may be configured to measure pressure within the cochlea. The pressure measurements may include (i) measurements of pressure corresponding to a physical contact of the one or more sensors with internal cochlear structures, (ii) measurements of perilymph fluid pressure, or (iii) measurements of pressure waves in the perilymph fluid corresponding to external sound waves. In one aspect, the sensor may be used by a system to help surgeons avoid damage to the cochlea during surgical implantation of the stimulation assembly. In another aspect, the sensor may be one component of an implantable microphone. |
| US08679028B2 |
Methods and devices for countering grativity induced loss of consciousness and novel pulse oximeter probes
Disclosed herein are methods and devices of obtaining plethysmograph readings and utilizing plethysomography to identify when pilots are about to experience GLOC. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the invention pertains to methods and devices designed to warn a pilot that he/she is about to enter GLOC and/or automatically averting catastrophic damage or injuries by directing a plane being piloted to take predetermined corrective actions. Specifically disclosed is a system embodiment for assisting in the prevention of gravity induced loss of consciousness. The system comprises at least one pulse oximeter probe 10 configured for securing to a central source site of a pilot and to generate signals indicative of blood flow at said central source site, an analyzer unit 58 communicatingly connected to said at least one pulse oximeter probe 10, said analyzer unit comprising at least one processing module 56 configured to determine whether said blood flow is approaching a predefined level, and an aircraft computer 51 communicatingly connected to said analyzer unit 58, said aircraft computer 51 comprising at least one processing module 59 configured to effect a predetermined reaction responsive to said blood flow falling below a predetermined level. |
| US08679026B2 |
Medical device for detecting pulmonary artery pressure
In a medical device and method to monitor pulmonary artery pressure of a patient, a first parameter related to the right ventricular straight volume of the patient's is detected, and a second parameter related to the right ventricular ejection rate of the patient's heart, or related to the workload of the patient's heart, is also determined. A pulmonary pressure index is determined by combining the first and second parameters, with variations of the pulmonary pressure index indicating variations in the pulmonary artery pressure. Pulmonary artery hypertension can be monitored with such a device and method. |
| US08679025B2 |
Method for determination of cardiac output
A method for determination of cardiac output from a recording of an arterial pressure waveform (10). The method comprises the steps of measuring the patient's peripheral arterial pressure relative to time in order to estimate a central pressure waveform (CPW) and calculating the patient's cardiac output from the CPW using the Water Hammer formula (as defined herein). |
| US08679023B2 |
Tissue insertion type ultrasonic probe
There is provided an ultrasonic probe for supporting spine surgery which can execute both inspection by tactile sense and inspection by ultrasound diagnosis. A front-end component provided at a front end of an insertion unit. The front-end component comprises a metal component and a resin component, and the metal component comprises a tactile member and an anchor. The resin component comprises a cap portion and a surrounding portion. An insertion portion in the front-end component is inserted into a front end portion of a pipe. The anchor and the front end portion are in close proximity with a certain distance therebetween, such that insulation is secured and vibration transmitted from a head can be transmitted from the anchor to the pipe in a superior manner. |
| US08679021B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, ultrasonic diagnostic method and data processing program for ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a data acquisition unit, a correction unit and a display unit. The data acquisition unit acquires phase signals as Doppler data from a moving object in an object by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from the object. The correction unit performs global aliasing correction processing of the phase signals based on a continuity in a two-dimensionally phase change. The display unit displays phase signals after the aliasing correction processing. |
| US08679018B2 |
Broad-beam imaging
Methods of probing a material under investigation using an ultrasound beam. Echolocation data is generated using a multi-dimensional transform capable of using phase and magnitude information to distinguish echoes resulting from ultrasound beam components produced using different ultrasound transducers. Since the multi-dimensional transform does not depend on using receive or transmit beam lines, a multi-dimensional area can be imaged using a single ultrasound transmission. In some embodiments, this ability increases image frame rate and reduces the amount of ultrasound energy required to generate an image. |
| US08679016B2 |
Method and system for providing sensor redundancy
A closed loop system or semi-closed loop system for infusing insulin using sensor values applies a redundant sensor system as a fail-safe method against sensor failure. The redundant glucose sensors are used corroborate each other and a failing sensor is detected if the sensors no longer corroborate each other. The use of redundant sensors has the additional benefit of producing better sensor signals compared to the use of a single sensor. |
| US08679015B2 |
Networked system for interactive communication and remote monitoring of individuals
A system for remotely monitoring an individual. The system includes a server system for generating a script program from a set of queries. The script program is executable by a remote apparatus that displays information and/or a set of queries to the individual through a user interface. Responses to the queries that are entered through the user interface together with individual identification information are sent from the remote apparatus to the server system across a communication network. The server system also includes an automated answering service for providing a series of questions from a stored set of questions for an individual at the remote apparatus to respond to, storing responses to each provided question in the series of questions and providing a service based on the individual's response to the questions. |
| US08679013B2 |
Intravaginal monitoring device
The invention relates to an intravaginal monitoring device, method of intravaginal monitoring, and system and network for intravaginal monitoring. The intravaginal monitoring device and or network includes multiple modes of operation that enable non-pregnancy monitoring, pregnancy testing, pregnancy monitoring, STD detection, precancerous condition monitoring, cancerous condition monitoring, pre-birth monitoring and prediction, neo-natal monitoring, ovulation monitoring, an automated rhythm method, among various applications of the device, method and network of the present invention. |
| US08679011B2 |
System and method for voice control of medical devices
A medical diagnostic system and method include a software application capable of generating medical data representing patient physiological information based on input signals received directly from one or more sensors. The application is capable of operating on a controller adapted to receive, store, and process the physiological information and may include a touch-screen, one or more auxiliary input devices, circuitry for obtaining position information from a location sensor, and a wireless transceiver to transmit data that may include patient physiological information over a wireless link. The controller may be capable of receiving voice input signals and manually entered input signals. A host may include a digital file for receiving and storing the wireless data, control logic to process the wireless data to generate a medical status of the patient, and a memory storage device for recording the medical status. |
| US08679008B2 |
Biosensor device and method
In part, one aspect of the invention relates to a portable, handheld biosensor device that is held between two fingers of the same hand or otherwise contacts two points on a user's skin. The sensor device includes a pair of conductive or semi-conductive electrodes and associated circuitry designed to sense, amplify and digitize the electrical conductance of the skin between the electrodes. The device can additionally be configured to sense additional biometrics from the fingers, including blood oxygenation and skin temperature. Digitized biometric values are transmitted wirelessly (or via direct wire connection, such as a USB cable) to a computing device where the data is utilized to generate a control parameter in a software application whose purpose is to provide anxiety biofeedback or entertainment. |
| US08679006B2 |
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. |
| US08679001B2 |
Lumen probe apparatuses and methods for using the same
A probe apparatus adapted for movement through a lumen, comprising: a linearly extendible and retractable element adapted for selective extension and retraction to provide the movement; a front balloon positioned forward of the linearly extendible and retractable element and adapted for selective inflation and deflation; a rear balloon positioned backward of the linearly extendible and retractable element and adapted for selective inflation and deflation; and, a twisting element adapted to twist at least one of the linearly extendible and retractable element, front balloon and rear balloon during inflation and deflation of the advancement balloon. |
| US08679000B2 |
Endoscope having signal cable
An endoscope has a section of an elongated tube for entry in a body cavity. An end shell is disposed at a distal end of the elongated tube. An imaging window area is formed in the end shell. A lens barrel is secured to the end shell, and aligned with the imaging window area. An imaging device photoelectrically detects object light from the lens barrel. A circuit board has the imaging device mounted thereon. A signal cable has a cover material, and plural filaments covered by the cover material, and connected to the circuit board. A cable retaining device partially retains the cover material fixedly. A tip portion is formed at a distal end of the cable retaining device. A coupling device keeps the tip portion laterally movable on the end shell, to prevent stress in the cable retaining device from exertion to the end shell. |
| US08678998B2 |
Endoscope and endoscopic instrument system having reduced backlash when moving the endoscopic instrument within a working channel of the endoscope
An endoscopic instrument has a portion having an outer surface with a non-circular cross-sectional shape. The non-circular cross-sectional shape may be provided to the instrument by providing peripheral projections or fins along the length of the portion or by providing the periphery of the portion with a polygonal shape. The resulting instrument has significantly reduced backlash while maintaining adequate fluid flow in the working channel. |
| US08678997B2 |
Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
A male impotence prosthesis apparatus comprises an operable penile prosthesis (4) implanted in an impotent patient's corpus cavernosum to provide flaccid or erect states of the patient's penis. An energy transmission device (10) for wireless transmission of energy from outside the patient's body to inside the patient's body is provided for use in connection with the operation of the penile prosthesis. |
| US08678995B2 |
Pelvic implant and delivery system
Described and depicted are pelvic sling implant and delivery systems. The sling implants can be used in treating stress incontinence and other pelvic floor disorders. The sling systems can include a mesh extension or support portion and one or more tip anchors. A delivery tool can include a handle (61), a needle (62) and a sheath (70), with the sheath having an elongate shaft portion slidable along at least a portion of the needle. The sheath can further include a distal hood portion having opposed flared portions (78) defining interior pleat channels adapted to selectively seat tine ends of the anchors. |
| US08678994B2 |
Devices and methods for treating morbid obesity
A surgical method of treating morbid obesity via bariatric procedures, carried out endoluminally and transluminally using endoscopic devices that are introduced through natural body openings without the necessity of creating any incisions in the abdominal wall. |
| US08678993B2 |
Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
An implantable device comprises a reservoir that contains a fluid for filling an inflatable portion of a gastric band. A device is coupled to the reservoir and includes stored potential energy having a first state and a second state. The first state represents a higher level of potential energy and the second state represents a lower level of potential energy. The implantable device further comprises a filling valve coupled between the reservoir and the gastric band, and the filling valve is configured to be opened in response to a first telemetric signal. The stored potential energy decreases from the first state to the second state when the filling valve is open, and a filling amount of the fluid moves from the reservoir to the gastric band when the stored potential energy decreases from the first state to the second state. |
| US08678992B2 |
Method of collecting semen from lab animals and artificial insemination method thereof
The present invention relates to a method of collecting semen from the epididymis or the testis of a lab animal and an artificial insemination method thereof. The present invention relates to a new applicable method in the animal production field using artificial insemination. Since the present invention solves the problems of the conventional method of artificial insemination of lab animals, it is excellent in terms of the pregnancy rate and productivity; is time-efficient; and is superior in economic and industrial respects by preventing a huge economic loss due to the costs for maintaining the mass breeding of animals. |
| US08678985B2 |
Balance training and exercise device
A balance training and exercise device comprises a rigid, shallow disc adapted to accommodate a user's feet or knees. A user moves in such a manner as to move the disc forwards or backwards, or to rotate the disc. A thickened firm, resilient pad can be placed within the disc, and the user can perform the same movements while standing atop the pad. Arm strengthening means can also be used in combination with the disc. |
| US08678984B1 |
Hand, wrist, arm and fingers therapy and exercising device
A hand, wrist, arm and fingers therapy and exercising device which includes a push bar pivotally connected to a base and a wrist support portion. The push bar is moveable between a neutral position, an extended position and a stretching position. The push bar includes finger cams at the end thereof for exercise of the fingers. |
| US08678977B2 |
Control device
A control device for controlling a transmission device configured such that when the speed change mechanism performs switching to a shift speed with a different speed ratio, special speed change control is executed in which a disengagement hydraulic pressure, is lowered to cause a disengagement element to slip, and in which the disengagement element is maintained in a slipping state over an entire speed change process. In the case where slipping of the disengagement element is not detected within a predetermined time after the disengagement hydraulic pressure is lowered at start of the special speed change control, pressure increase correction is performed in which an engagement hydraulic pressure, which is a hydraulic pressure of hydraulic oil for an engagement element that is a friction engagement element to be engaged, is raised until slipping of the disengagement element is detected. |
| US08678973B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, a first planetary gear mechanism, a second planetary gear mechanism, a third planetary gear mechanism, a fourth planetary gear mechanism, a first engagement device, a second engagement device, a third engagement device, a fourth engagement device, a fifth engagement device, a sixth engagement device, and a seventh engagement device. Ten forward gears of the automatic transmission are established by bringing at least three of the first to seventh engagement devices into the engagement state. |
| US08678972B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are each selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least nine forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. |
| US08678971B2 |
Drive assembly
A drive assembly for a multi-axle driven motor vehicle is disclosed herein. The drive assembly comprises a differential unit having a rotational axis, an input part and two output parts drivably connected to the input part, an externally controllable selectable coupling, and an externally controllable locking coupling. The output parts have a compensating effect among each other. The externally controllable selectable coupling is for drivably connecting the differential unit to a drive source. The externally controllable locking coupling is for locking the compensatory movement between both output parts of the differential unit. The selectable coupling and the locking coupling are arranged coaxially to the rotational axis. |
| US08678968B2 |
Drive unit, particularly rear drive unit, for an all-wheel drive of a motor vehicle
A drive unit, more preferably rear drive unit, for an all-wheel drive of a motor vehicle with two drive shafts, of which one drive shaft serves for driving the one wheel and the other drive shaft serves for driving the other wheel of a motor vehicle. Provided is a transmission operationally that is connected to the drive shafts, through which a drive torque acting on the input of the transmission can be divided or is divided into at least two output torques and through which the output torque of the transmission acting on the one drive shaft is reversible or is reversed in its operation direction relative to the output torque of the transmission acting on the other drive shaft. |
| US08678964B2 |
Rear derailleur
A rear derailleur is adapted to be secured to a side of a rear fork portion of a vehicle frame. When the front derailleur pull tight or release a transmission cable, a transmission lever is move back and forth in a threaded shaft base and a foot portion of a lever control cable also pulls a chain retaining lever to rotate, so that a position of a distal point of the rotating chain retaining lever resulting from a movement of a retracing spring is changed. Accordingly, effects such as gear shift-up, gear fixing, gear shift-down, and angle adjusting of chain retaining steering wheel are achieved. In addition, occurrence of disorder of the derailleur system and slipping off of the chain are reduced. |
| US08678960B2 |
Arrowhead with elongated tentacles
The invention concerns an arrowhead with elongated tentacles, each of which forms two ends, each tentacle being fastened with one end to the arrowhead and the other end being unsupported, and in which each tentacle, starting from the fastening on the arrowhead, leaves it in the direction of the free end so that an angle of ≧0° and less than 90° is formed between the longitudinal axis of the arrowhead in the flight direction and the tentacle. |
| US08678954B2 |
Method using visual indicia for golf instruction
A method for using visual indicia for teaching a student proper alignment and club selection for each of a plurality of different positions of a ball for a golf type game in which the ball is struck with a club toward a target. The method includes positioning sets of markers at different distances from the target wherein each distance is chosen to represent a particular type of stroke to be made with a club. Other markers are positioned on the putting green to represent a landing spot for a ball struck from a location off of the putting green. Thereafter, directional arrows are positioned along a preferential path for a ball to travel in order to reach the target. The student is aligned with the markers and arrows to create a visual reference to associate with the striking of the ball. |
| US08678950B2 |
Multi-component golf club head
A golf club head having multiple components is provided. The golf club head includes a plurality of components wherein at least one component exhibits a different modulus of elasticity than the other components. In some structures, one or more of the plurality of components that comprise the golf club head is titanium or titanium alloy component provided in the heel and/or toe areas of the club head structure immediately adjacent the ball striking face, wherein that titanium or titanium alloy component has a lower modulus of elasticity than the material making up the club face and/or other club head body components. |
| US08678949B2 |
Golf club head and manufacturing method for the same
A golf club head manufacturing method, including: welding a first reinforcing piece with first thickness to a central portion between a toe and a heel, so as to extend along an edge of a face side of a sole part, the sole part being part of a lower part formed integrally with a side part; welding a second reinforcing piece of second, larger thickness to a central portion between the toe and heel so as to extend along the edge on the face side of the first piece; welding a face part to the first and second pieces from an inner space of the lower part; welding a hosel part to the lower and face parts; welding a crown part to the lower, face and hosel parts; and welding the lower and face parts together from the outside. |
| US08678947B2 |
Golf club groove configuration
The present invention is directed to a golf club head with an improved striking surface. The grooves are machined into the strike surface with tight tolerances using a profiled cutter. More specifically, the grooves has a radius of curvature R1 and a draft angle θ forming a relationship that satisfies the equation R1≧(1*10−7θ3)−(3*10−5θ2)+0.003θ−0.0891 to achieve a maximum spin performance. |
| US08678946B2 |
Golf club assembly and golf club with aerodynamic features
A golf club head includes a body member having a ball striking face, a crown, a toe, a heel, a sole, a rear and a hosel region located at the intersection of the ball striking face, the heel, the crown and the sole. A plurality of dimples are located on the hosel region, on the crown, on the sole, and/or on the heel, wherein at least some of the plurality of dimples have a major axis that is not aligned in a direction parallel to the moment-of-impact club-head-trajectory direction. A golf club including the golf club head is also provided. |
| US08678943B2 |
Apparatus and method for analysing a golf swing
This invention is an apparatus and method for measuring or analyzing a golf swing. Measurement or analysis is made relative to energy generation and transfer through a player's body and club. The measurement or analysis data is principally obtained from the player's ground-reaction forces. Processed signals are analyzed with an artificial intelligence system. Ground-reaction forces relate to reaction forces which occur between a standing surface and the player's feet. The apparatus and method measures or analyses a golf swing in an automatic manner or in an automatic and interactive manner. |
| US08678941B2 |
Rapidly deployable primary stage unit
The present disclosure provides a primary stage unit configured for transport on a standard semi-truck trailer including a plurality of lateral supports that engage the ground and lift the primary stage unit off of the trailer, a pair of wheel units that engage the ground and move the primary stage unit to a desired location, a main stage floor that pivots from a substantially vertical stowed position to a substantially horizontal in-use position and moves vertically to a desired height, a roof assembly including a pair of support columns that extend telescopically from a stowed position to an in-use position, and a plurality of roof joists supporting a corresponding plurality of roof panels. |
| US08678938B2 |
Lubricated engine compensator assembly and motorcycle having the same
The present invention provides a compensator assembly for use in a motorcycle. The compensator assembly includes an input member, and an output member driven by the input member through a torque-buffering interface. The compensator assembly also includes one or more lubrication passageways formed therein extending between a distal end and one or more interfaces to provide lubricant thereto. |
| US08678936B2 |
Gaming machine chair and wagering game systems and machines with a gaming chair
Gaming machine chairs and wagering game systems and machines with a gaming chair are presented herein. A gaming chair is disclosed that includes a base, a seat portion supported by the base, one or more speaker assemblies, and a backrest assembly. The backrest assembly includes a backrest and a mounting frame. The mounting frame has a polymeric honeycombed body comprising a plurality of ribs that define an array of compartments. Optionally, the mounting frame body has at least one contoured face. The mounting frame is attached to the backrest and speaker assembly, coupling both the backrest and speaker assembly to the base. The mounting frame may be fabricated with numerous fastening regions that are integrally formed with the polymeric body. In this optional configuration, at least some of the fastening regions lie in a respective plane divergent from the other fastening regions. |
| US08678933B2 |
Server device, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing game program
A server device according to an embodiment is connected to a plurality of player terminals to communicate information with the player terminals. The server device includes: a storage unit configured to store game content information, the game content information being configured to have special numbers at a predetermined interval in serial number order; a providing unit configured to select the same number of pieces of game content as the number of the predetermined interval, and to provide the selected pieces of game content at a time; a provision notice information generating unit configured to generate provision notice information for notifying in advance of whether a piece of game content with a special number is to be provided; and an image data generating unit configured to generate image data for displaying a game screen on a display unit of the player terminal before providing the pieces of game content. |
| US08678925B1 |
Method and apparatus to provide a dice application
A method and apparatus for rolling at least one die comprises determining an initial location of the die, and receiving an initialization movement. The method further comprises utilizing accelerometer data from a user shaking a controller, and determining a final location for the at least one die based on the accelerometer data and the initial location data. |
| US08678922B2 |
Entertainment device and method
A server for administering an on-line virtual environment comprises a data communication arrangement and a processor. The data communication arrangement receives a signal from a first entertainment device in communication with an instance of the virtual environment. The signal indicates that a user of that device has performed a predetermined action. The processor determines the availability of a second entertainment device, and is operable to switch the second device from a second instance of the virtual environment to the first instance of the virtual environment. The data communication arrangement is operable, if the second device is available, to transmit a signal to the first device indicating that a software controlled avatar within that instance should change modes to represent a user of the second device. The processor is operable to transfer control of a previously software controlled avatar within that instance of the virtual environment to the second device. |
| US08678920B2 |
Interactive computer gaming system with audio response
A remotely accessed lottery system in accordance with the present invention, includes at least one gaming location including a plurality of terminals, each terminal including a display and an input device, the terminals being connected on a local area network. A dedicated transmission link is coupled to the local area network. A central station is remotely disposed relative to the at least one gaming location, the central station coupled to the local area network by the dedicated transmission link. The central station further includes at least one computer for generating tickets to be sent to the terminals pursuant to requests by players to participate, wherein the tickets are digitally rendered on a display of the terminals and have outcomes predetermined at the central station prior to the request for purchase and also includes a device for updating player accounts responsive to requests for participation and winning results as determined at the central station. A method for playing virtual scratch off games is also included. |
| US08678917B1 |
Method, apparatus, and computer readable storage to determine and/or update slot machine configurations using historical, and/or current, and/or predicted future data
An apparatus, method, and computer readable storage for automatically deciding slot machine configuration changes. Slot machine usage is electronically monitored and ideal settings are determined from the usage. Slot machines can then be updated electronically according to the ideal settings, either automatically or upon operator approval. |
| US08678915B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing a gaming application
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may operate, for example, according to a method for receiving a request to coordinate execution of a gaming application between a communication device and at least one device remotely located from the communication device, selecting a game rendering server from a plurality of game rendering servers according to a determination of at least one characteristic of the communication device, and instructing the game rendering server to transmit a stream associated with the gaming application responsive to determining that the communication device is unable to execute in whole or in part the gaming application from local computing resources of the communication device. The method can further include coordinating an exchange of first control information and second control information between the communication device and the at least one device. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08678914B2 |
Game initiation and contribution utilizing wager on secondary game
A gaming system and method for use in one or more casino establishments for offering a secondary game that is initiated separately from a base game and that requires a separate contribution for a player to be eligible to participate in the secondary game. The gaming machine and method are offered on electronic gaming machines such as slot machines and video poker machines, but may also be deployed in other forms such as on a general purpose computing device connected to a network. |
| US08678910B2 |
Wagering game with multiple reels forming multiple symbol arrays
A gaming system for playing a wagering game comprises at least one display adapted to display a plurality of reels having symbols. The symbols indicate a randomly selected outcome of the wagering game. The plurality of reels includes at least one single-symbol reel and at least one multi-symbol reel. The at least one display is adapted to display at least one payline overlapping at least one symbol from the at least one single-symbol reel and at least one symbol from the at least one multi-symbol reel. |
| US08678905B2 |
Methods and systems for conducting lottery games with portable devices enabled for near field communication (NFC)
In some embodiments, the instant invention provides for a computer system that includes a processor executing the code to: receive an indication indicating that a player desires to participate in a lottery game based on a near field communication (NFC) between a mobile device of the player and a first game piece associated with the lottery game conducted by a game conducting authority; conduct a drawing in accordance with rules of the lottery game; receive an indication identifying an action performed by the player in accordance with the rules of the lottery game where the action is based on: i) a result of the drawing and ii) NFC communication between the mobile device of the player and a second game piece associated with the lottery game; and distribute a prize to player in accordance with the rules of the lottery game. |
| US08678902B2 |
System gaming
A system provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded. |
| US08678901B1 |
System gaming
A method provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded. |
| US08678899B2 |
Game show with specialized voting procedure
A method of providing a game show that includes broadcasting performances from a plurality of contestants to audience members and receiving lists from the audience members. Each list received contains the identifiers of at least two contestants. These lists are tabulated and a vote is recorded for a contestant each time the identifier for that contestant appears on a list. The contestants are then ranked in order of the number of votes each received, with the contestant who received the least votes ranked first. The contestant with the most votes and/or the contestant with the least votes are named the winner. The group of audience members who submitted lists that rank the contestants in order of who received the fewest votes to who received the most votes also win. |
| US08678898B2 |
Information storage medium, terminal, image generation method, and network system
A terminal sets a search range that includes a player object and is smaller than a radar map range in an object space based on the position of the player object, and generates a radar map image that indicates the position of the player object and the position of an enemy object within the search range. |
| US08678897B2 |
Detecting and providing player information with sensor at the player side
A system for detecting and providing information assigned to soccer players, wherein the system contains a soccer ball (130) comprising a centrally arranged magnetic field generator (142) for generating an alternating magnetic field (150); a transceiver (148) for receiving radio signals (160) and for transmitting collected player information; a control unit (144) for evaluating received radio signals and assigning timestamps to IDs of received radio signals; a source of energy; and a memory for storing and reading out player information based on the IDs with assigned timestamps; and a device (120) for sensing the generated magnetic field in a soccer shoe and for transmitting an ID assigned to the device, comprising a magnetic field sensor (122) for sensing and measuring the magnetic filed (105); a control unit (124); and a transmitting unit (128) for transmitting a radio signal (160) which contains the ID assigned to the device (120), wherein the transmitting unit is actively supplied with energy, and wherein the radio signal is transmitted under control by the control unit. |
| US08678895B2 |
Systems and methods for online band matching in a rhythm action game
A method for matching suitable remote players to one or more local players of a rhythm-action game includes identifying one or more local players to participate in a networked session of a rhythm action game corresponding to a predetermined band template, each local player associated with a type of simulated musical. A first type of simulated musical instrument represented in the predetermined band template and not associated with any of the one or more local players may then be identified, along with a remote player associated with the first type of simulated musical instrument. A game session may then be provided including the one or more local players and the identified remote player. |
| US08678894B2 |
Systems and methods for simulating a particular user in an interactive computer system
An interactive computer system and method for simulating a user's avatar behavior is provided. In an embodiment, a computer program product includes a simulator configured to simulate a user interactive with a computer program. The simulator includes a learning mode of operation and a simulation mode of operation. During the learning mode, the simulator monitors the user's interaction with the computer program for one or more events, and analyzes one or more current circumstances during the occurrence of one or more events. The simulator records one or more user inputs in response to the occurrence of the one or more events, stores the one or more user inputs in one or more data fields, and associates the one or more data fields with the one or more events and the one or more current circumstances. |
| US08678891B2 |
Video game systems and methods including protecting game character(s)
Example systems and methods relate to a video game in which multiple players each supply inputs to a respective input device to control a corresponding game character in a game world. Movements and actions of each game character are controlled in accordance with a first game character control operation during the playing of the video game. If one or more conditions is satisfied by one of the players, the one player's game character is protected from harm in the game world. Movements and actions of the protected game character are controlled in accordance with a second game character control operation. The protecting of the one player's game character is stopped in response to one or more protecting stopping conditions, whereby the game character is again controllable in accordance with the first game character control operation. If all game characters are protected, current playing of the video game ends. |
| US08678890B1 |
Removable label guest book assembly
A removable label guest book assembly provides a record of guests attending an event and removable labels to facilitate subsequent communication with those who attended the event. The guest book assembly includes a plurality of pages coupled together forming a book. A plurality of removable labels is coupled to the pages. The labels each have a writing surface configured for being written on by a writing implement. A plurality of recording sheets is provided. Each label has an associated recording sheet positioned between the label and the page. Thus, the recording sheet transfers writing on the writing surface of the label onto the associated page. |
| US08678889B2 |
Exhaust system
An exhaust system includes an exhaust fan having a frame within which fan blades and a motor are secured. The frame includes an upper sidewall, a bottom sidewall, a first lateral sidewall and a second lateral sidewall, defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening on opposite sides of the frame. A flexible exhaust boot is secured to the frame of the exhaust fan adjacent the outlet opening. The exhaust boot is a flexible piece of material having a substantially tubular configuration with a first end having an opening and a second end having an opening. A support assembly secures the exhaust fan and exhaust boot in position adjacent an opening. The support assembly includes a vertical bracket having a first end and a second end, and an outwardly extending support block is mounted at the first end of the vertical bracket. The support assembly also includes a horizontal bracket extending substantially perpendicular to the vertical bracket. The horizontal bracket is shaped and dimensioned to pass through a connection opening in the second end of the vertical bracket, and the horizontal bracket includes first end and a second end. The first end of the horizontal bracket extends outwardly from the same side of the vertical bracket as the support block. A strap is selectively connected to the exhaust fan. |
| US08678879B2 |
Grinding machine and measuring apparatus
A first grinding head is provided on a base frame via a first movable body and a first grinding base. The proximal portion of the tilt arm is tiltably fitted in the housing of the grinding head. A measuring device is rotatably coupled to a distal portion of the tilt arm. A gauge and a measuring pin are coupled to the lower end of the measuring device, and the gauge is engaged with a crankpin of a crankshaft. A tilt center of the tilt arm is arranged on the same axis as the rotation center of the first grindstone ISA. When the tilt arm is tilted, the position of the measuring device is changed, accordingly. However, since the relational relationship between the first grindstone ISA and the gauge is not changed, the position of the gauge is easily adjusted in accordance with the diameter of the crankpin. Accordingly, a grinding machine is provided that simplifies the movement path of the gauge of the measuring device, thereby allowing the outer diameter of the workpiece to be quickly measured. |
| US08678868B2 |
Boat and combination boat and snowmobile
A boat capable of having a snowmobile securely mounted on its hull and steerable by the snowmobile's steering mechanism. The boat includes a bow, an aft, a port side, a starboard side, and a mid-ship. The hull of the boat includes a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom of the hull includes under-hull skis with tips and tails, and the bottom of the hull further includes a bow step positioned proximate to the tips of the under-hull skis. The boat also includes: a snowmobile opening including a cutaway of the hull extending into the hull from the aft and disposed halfway between the port and starboard sides; a transom disposed at the aft; and a boat steering mechanism including two boat ski attachment mechanisms on the port and starboard sides of the boat and two snowmobile ski attachment mechanisms on the port and starboard sides. |
| US08678865B2 |
Connector with retainer
Two partial locks (34) formed on opposite ends of a retainer (30) in a width direction are engaged with a housing (10) to prevent the retainer (30) at a partial locking position from being displaced in a direction opposite to a direction toward a full locking position. The retainer (30) also has a resilient restricting portion (43) between the partial locks (34) in the width direction to engage the housing (10) when the retainer (30) is at the partial locking position and to prevent the retainer (30) from being curved and deformed to bulge out in the direction opposite to the direction toward the full locking position by being. |
| US08678864B2 |
Terminal box for solar cell module
A terminal box (10) includes terminal plates (90), a base plate (21) for supporting the terminal plates (90) and an outer plate (22) surrounding the base plate (21). The base plate (21) has higher heat resistance than the outer plate (22) and is mounted and fixed to the outer plate (22). The outer plate (22) is formed integrally with pressing pieces (33) for preventing the lifting of the terminal plates (90) from the base plate 21 by being arranged to be able to come into contact with the outer surfaces of the terminal plates (90) as the base plate (21) is mounted. |
| US08678863B2 |
Connector and electronic device having the same
The invention provides a connector including a body, a cover, a contact, and a molded portion. The body includes a connecting hole, and a housing hole or slit communicating with the connecting hole and being open to an outside of the body. The cover blocks the housing hole or slit of the body. The contact includes a fixed portion fixedly attached in the housing hole or slit of the body, a contact portion disposed in the connecting hole, and a connecting portion protruding from between the body and the cover to an outside of the body and the cover. The molded portion, formed of insulating resin, covers and blocks at least a boundary between the body and the cover, a boundary between the body and the connecting portion of the contact, and a boundary between the cover and the connecting portion of the contact. |
| US08678860B2 |
Shieldless, high-speed, low-cross-talk electrical connector
An electrical connector may include a first connector with electrically-conductive contacts. The contacts may have blade-shaped mating ends, and may be arranged in a centerline. The electrical connector may include a second connector with electrically-conductive receptacle contacts, which may also be arranged in a centerline. The connectors may be mated such that the mating portion of a first contact in the second connector may physically contact of a corresponding blade-shaped mating end of a contact in the first connector. |
| US08678858B2 |
Coaxial connector interconnection cap
A coaxial connector is combined with an inner conductor interconnection cap, for interconnection with a coaxial cable. The interconnection cap is provided with a bore adapted to seat upon and circumferentially contact an outer diameter of the inner contact and an outer diameter of the inner conductor. The interconnection cap extends along the inner contact to cover at least a contact portion at a cable end of the inner contact to enclose an interconnection between the inner conductor and the inner contact. Sealant may be applied to the interconnection to improve seal performance and the dimensions and materials of the interconnection cap may be adjusted to modify characteristic impedance for return loss optimization with respect to specific coaxial cables. |
| US08678857B2 |
Electrical connector having shielding member
An electrical connector includes a port (102, 103) for insertion of a mating connector along an insertion direction, a mating module (50) having a set of contacts (540, 542) received in the port, a transferring module (53) located behind the mating module and having a number of conductive components mounted thereon, and a shielding component (51, 52) disposed between the set of contacts and the transferring module. The shielding component is located between the set of contacts and the transferring module. The shielding component is simple and easily assembled to the transferring module. |
| US08678854B2 |
Electrical connector for accommodating an electrical conductor and imparting shape
The invention relates to an electrical connector for accommodating an electrical conductor or mating connector, having a first plastic section having a first degree of hardness or elasticity, and a second plastic section having a second degree of hardness or elasticity, wherein the first degree of hardness or elasticity and the second degree of hardness or elasticity are different, and the first plastic section cooperates with the second plastic section in order to accommodate the electrical conductor. |
| US08678853B2 |
Cable connector assembly with reliable connection
A cable connector assembly includes a housing including a main portion and a mating portion extending forwardly from the main portion, a number of contacts received in the housing and including first contacts and second contacts; a number of first wires connecting with the first contacts; and a number of second wires connecting with the second contacts. Each first contact includes a first contacting section and a first termination section exposed beyond the housing. Each second contact includes a second contacting section and a second termination section exposed beyond the housing. The first termination section electrically connects with corresponding first wire via Insulation Displacement Connection (IDC). The second termination section electrically connects with corresponding second wire via soldering. |
| US08678847B2 |
Power plug locking device having a manual unlock switch and a lock member activated by a drive source activated by an unlock circuit
A power plug locking device arranged in a vehicle includes a lock member moved between a lock position, in which the lock member prohibits removal of a power plug from a vehicle inlet, and an unlock position, in which the lock member permits removal of the power plug from the vehicle inlet. A drive source is activated to move the lock member from the lock position to the unlock position. An unlock switch is manually operated to move the lock member to the unlock position. An unlock circuit activates the drive source to move the lock member to the unlock position when the operation of the unlock switch and an unlock state of a vehicle door are both detected. |
| US08678846B2 |
Electrical connector with connector position assurance device
An electrical connector is provided for mating with a mating connector and includes a housing and a fulcrum latch mechanism having a latch arm extending from a latching end to an actuation end. The latch arm is configured to rotate about a fulcrum that is located along the length of the latch arm between the latching and actuation ends such that the latching end is configured to move between a latched position and an unlatched position. A connector position assurance (CPA) device is movably held by the housing such that the CPA device is configured to move relative to the housing between a mated position and an unmated position. The CPA device is movably held by the housing independently of the latch arm. |
| US08678843B2 |
Connector for a medical device having a rigid sleeve and a flexible seal with complimentary surface profiles
A connector for a multipolar lead having a substantially cylindrical cavity that contains a stack (200) of alternating annular electrical contact elements (210) and annular isolation elements (220). The isolation elements (220) comprise an annular rigid sleeve and an annular flexible seal disposed against an annular face in an interior region of the rigid sleeve. The flexible seal extends axially from one lateral side of the rigid sleeve to the other in the interior region of the rigid sleeve. The sleeve and the seal include are immobilized relatively to each other in the axial direction by use of mating surface profiles respectively defined on an inner annular side of the sleeve and on an outer annular side of the flexible seal. In addition, each lateral side of the flexible seal is projecting with respect to the corresponding lateral sides of the rigid sleeve. |
| US08678840B2 |
Locking arrangement having a slide to move a snap hook with a slot for engaging a catch
A locking arrangement for a plug apparatus which can be swiveled into an electronic assembly with an unlocking slide fastened to the plug apparatus, and is in operative connection with a snap hook arranged on a catch. |
| US08678836B2 |
Coaxial connector plug and manufacturing method thereof
An outer conductor portion includes an outer conductor and a pair of outer terminals. The outer conductor is formed into a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the z-axis direction. The outer terminals are drawn toward the positive z-axis direction side of the outer conductor. In a plan view in the z-axis direction, the outer terminals are each bent in a direction outwardly from the outer conductor, and face each other across the outer conductor. An insulator has two sides, an upper surface in contact with a positive z-axis direction-side end portion of the outer conductor, and a lower surface in contact with the outer terminals at the sides, and thereby is nipped by the outer conductor portion in the z-axis direction. A central conductor is attached to the insulator, and is provided in a region surrounded by the outer conductor. |
| US08678833B2 |
Method and device for training of a user
A training device for training at least one user comprising a user output interface (3) for presenting at least one training task (t) to said user (2), a user input interface (4) for inputting a response of said user (2) to each presented training task (t), means (5) for detecting a performance (p) of said user (2) on the basis of the responses input by said user (2), and means (6) for presenting rewards for the detected performance (p) of said user, wherein said rewards are selected depending on a training date (TD) on which the responses are input by said user (2) and depending on an age (A) of said user (2). |
| US08678830B2 |
Circulatory heart model
A circulatory heart model (30) is disclosed that is geometrically accurate with respect to corresponding anatomical structures (31, 91, 103, 112, 124). The model (30) provides a closed loop for providing flow through the major anatomical structures (31, 91, 103, 112, 124) corresponding to a modeled biological heart. The model (30) provides a means of pumping fluid through a closed loop flow circuit analogous to the circulatory system by gripping the base of the heart model (30) and squeezing with one's hand. The transparent quality of the heart model (30) enables flow visualization including visualization of anatomical valve function through representative valves (53, 60, 69, 80). The model (3) provides high educational, scientific, and/or amusement value in a device that is economical to produce. |
| US08678826B2 |
Method for creating a foreign language learning product
Various embodiments of this invention disclose a method for learning a foreign language using a variety of media such as audio-video, audio, and written media. The diverse embodiments of the invention allow the student to learn a foreign language in an accelerated manner that creates a stress-free environment and lowers a student's effective barrier to learning a foreign language. In various embodiments of the invention, the foreign language is taught using audio-video media. The video presents a movie or television presentation. Meanwhile, the original audio portion is replaced with an audio track, which is developed using the principles of the invention. The audio comprises the “phrases or complete thoughts” of the original video that are segmented and presented in alternating sections of native and foreign language. By presenting the native language “phrases or complete thoughts” immediately followed by same “phrase or complete thought” in the foreign language, the student is afforded the opportunity to develop associations between the two. |
| US08678821B2 |
Dental implant with hinged stablizing arms
An implant includes a collar configured for disposal within tissue. The collar defines an axial bore. A shaft extends between a first end and a second end. The shaft is configured for disposal with the bore of the collar. A base defines an axial bore having an inner surface configured for engagement with the shaft such that the base is axially movable relative to the shaft. At least one arm extends between the collar and the base. The at least one arm is movable via axial movement of the base relative to the shaft between a first position and a second position such that the at least one arm is expanded in a configuration to engage tissue. Methods of use are also disclosed. |
| US08678819B2 |
Surgical guide, and a method for positioning a drill using the surgical guide
A surgical guide used in implant treatment. A wire is mounted to a mockup at the orientation at which an implant fixture should be embedded. A guide member of a surgical guide is fitted to a tooth portion of the mockup. The optical axis of an irradiated light beam guided by a light irradiation portion from a light emitting portion through an optical fiber is aligned with the central axis of the wire by moving and adjusting the portion supported by a wire member. Drilling is performed after the adjusted guide member is removed from the mockup and fitted to a patient's tooth portion and the central axis of a drill is aligned with the optical axis of the beam. |
| US08678818B2 |
Self ligating orthodontic bracket having a rotatable member
The present disclosure is directed, at least in part, to a self ligating orthodontic bracket having a rotatable member for securing an archwire within a slot of the bracket. Embodiments of the orthodontic bracket disclosed herein include a bracket body containing the archwire slot as well as tie wings for attaching various orthodontic devices (e.g., elastomeric bands) to the bracket. The rotatable member is rotatable in a first direction (e.g., counter clockwise) relative to a body of the bracket for securing or locking the archwire within the slot, and for rotating in an opposite direction (e.g., a clockwise direction) relative to the bracket body for unsecuring or unlocking the archwire so that it is substantially unrestrained from exiting the slot. |
| US08678812B2 |
Fill system for forming machines
A hold-down tooling package that maintains the dimensional integrity between the product manifold, shear and fill plate. |
| US08678811B2 |
Apparatus for taking out molded product
An apparatus for taking out a molded product that can effectively suppress peeling of a cured adhesive applied to fix a fiber-reinforced plastic shaped material to each of a pair of opposed sidewalls of an elevating shaft, the sidewalls being opposite each other in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the elevating shaft. A fiber-reinforced section of the fiber-reinforced plastic shaped material is formed of a plurality of warp threads and a plurality of weft threads, which are disposed on a surface of the sidewalls of the elevating shaft such that the plurality of warp threads are juxtaposed in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the elevating shaft and extend in the axial direction and the plurality of weft threads are juxtaposed in the axial direction and extend in a direction intersecting the axial direction. |
| US08678810B2 |
Apparatus and method for the production of bi-material hollow bodies by means of injection overmolding
An apparatus and method for the production of bi-material hollow bodies by injection overmolding. The apparatus includes: n base molding cavities or groups of base molding cavities inserted between n+1 overmolding cavities or groups of overmolding cavities or vice versa; and 2n cores or groups of cores which are fixed to a core holder plate mounted such that it can move in a transverse direction on a base plate that is actuated to move in a longitudinal direction in order alternately to insert each core into one of the base molding cavities, so as to mold a first layer, and into one of the overmolding cavities, so as to overmold a second layer. The apparatus also includes an ejecting device for ejecting the finished bi-material hollow bodies and a valve for alternately distributing the molding material to one or the other of the outer cavities. |
| US08678796B2 |
Scroll-type compressor
A scroll-type compressor whose capacity can be easily changed and with which an inconvenience can be prevented is provided. A scroll-type compressor includes a fixed scroll having a first spiral-shaped wall member provided upright on a side surface of a first end plate, and an orbiting scroll having a second spiral-shaped wall member provided upright on a side surface of the second end plate, the orbiting scroll being supported so as to be capable of orbital revolution movement while being prevented from self rotation by meshing the wall members with each other. Wall-member stepped portions having a small height at the center and a large height at the outer side in a direction along the spiral are formed on the upper edges of the first and second wall members. End-plate height-difference portions having a large height at the center and a small height at the outer side in the direction along the spiral are formed on the side surfaces of the first and second end plates, at positions facing the wall-member stepped portions. One of the first and second wall members has a cutout portion formed at the outer end in the direction along the spiral and has a smaller spiral-end angle than the other of the first and second wall members. |
| US08678793B2 |
Finger-type peristaltic pump
The invention provides a finger-type peristaltic pump (2) having a body (4) and a housing (6). The body contains two or more finger-type valves (16) and a processor (22) configured to operate the valves according to a predetermined temporo-spatial pattern. The housing has a passageway (18) configured to receive a conduit. The housing has a first position in which a conduit in the passageway is positioned adjacent to the valve fingers, and a second position in which a conduit in the passageway is not adjacent to the valve fingers. The invention also provides a housing for use in the pump of the invention. |
| US08678792B2 |
Pulsatile rotary ventricular pump
A roller pump conduit defining a pump chamber is provided. The roller pump conduit includes a roller contact portion having a fill region and a delivery region. The fill region has a first taper configured to determine volume delivery per revolution of a roller head. The delivery region has a pressure region having a second taper and a discharge region having a third taper. The third taper has a lesser degree of taper than the second taper. The delivery region is configured to produce a pulsatile flow out of the conduit. Furthermore, a roller pump having a roller pump conduit is provided. The roller pump conduit of the roller pump has a fill region and a delivery region, the fill region having a first taper, and the delivery region having a second and third taper, wherein the third taper has lesser degree of taper than the second taper. |
| US08678786B2 |
Scroll compressor with partial unloader for start-up
A scroll compressor may be provided with a check valve interposed between a balance chamber and a discharge chamber. The check valve may allow balance chamber pressure to remain low during start-up of the compressor. Low balance chamber pressure may allow an orbiting scroll to remain unclamped to a fixed scroll thereby reducing torque required to initiate rotation of the orbiting scroll. After steady-state operational speed is reached the check valve may close and the scrolls may be clamped together to produce a desired steady-state operating condition for the compressor. |
| US08678783B2 |
Solution sending pump
A motor is fixed to a retaining member by bolts and well nuts. The well nuts are attached to the retaining member so that their flange portions are positioned between a motor fixing portion and the retaining member, and a clearance corresponding to thickness of the flanges of the well nuts is provided between the motor fixing portion and the retaining member. Heat-conductive elastic members are sandwiched between the motor fixing portion and the retaining member. |
| US08678775B2 |
System and method for position control of a mechanical piston in a pump
Embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein utilize a brushless DC motor (BLDCM) to drive a single-stage or a multi-stage pump in a pumping system for real time, smooth motion, and extremely precise and repeatable position control over fluid movements and dispense amounts, useful in semiconductor manufacturing. The BLDCM may employ a position sensor for real time position feedback to a processor executing a custom field-oriented control scheme. Embodiments of the invention can reduce heat generation without undesirably compromising the precise position control of the dispense pump by increasing and decreasing, via a custom control scheme, the operating frequency of the BLDCM according to the criticality of the underlying function(s). The control scheme can run the BLDCM at very low speeds while maintaining a constant velocity, which enables the pumping system to operate in a wide range of speeds with minimal variation, substantially increasing dispense performance and operation capabilities. |
| US08678768B2 |
Vertical axis turbine
A vertical axis turbine and method of making same is disclosed. The device and method comprise a plurality of blades rotatably disposed around an axis of rotation at a plurality of blade locations, each blade being twisted at a first angle about its longitudinal axis, each blade having its distal ends located a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation, each blade being bent at one or more central locations along the longitudinal axis so the one or more central locations are the same predetermined distance from the axis of rotation as the distal ends, each blade having a foil cross section perpendicular to the axis of rotation for maintaining unidirectional rotation of that blade about the axis of rotation in a fluid flow, and each blade having its longitudinal axis tilted at a second angle with respect to the axis of rotation. |
| US08678760B2 |
Bypass duct of a turbofan engine
On a turbofan engine, at least one of the downstream guide vanes (1) of the downstream guide vane assembly (2) arranged behind the fan in the bypass duct, and a fairing element (3) arranged behind a downstream guide vane, are provided as a combined—one-piece and aerodynamically shaped—vane and fairing element (4) functioning as both a downstream guide vane and a fairing element for installations arranged in the bypass duct or an aerodynamically shaped supporting strut. The one-piece configuration of a fairing element with upstream vane, i.e. the integration of fairing elements provided with a specific outer contour into the downstream guide vane assembly, results in lower pressure losses and reduced fuel consumption as well as reduced pressure effect on the fan and, consequently, increased operating stability of the fan, higher fan efficiency and reduced sound emission. |
| US08678759B2 |
Centrifugal fan
A centrifugal blower unit comprising an impeller disposed therein and a scroll casing covering the exterior, the scroll casing having an outlet port, a tongue-like portion, a scroll portion of a volute shape and side casing plates provided with inlet ports on both sides, featuring advantages of increasing a static pressure and reducing an input power and noise while also achieving compactness in size. The scroll portion is provided with tapered scroll walls formed in anti-tongue-side wall adjacent to the outlet port by having it bent along bent lines toward the impeller and at angles to a driving shaft of the impeller such that a cross sectional area of the scroll portion in a direction of the driving shaft becomes gradually smaller toward the side casing plates. |
| US08678750B2 |
Specialty pump with heat exchanger and system
A specialty pump and heat exchange system having a fluid pump driven by a gear assembly. The fluid pump has a pump casing and an inboard head that form a fluid passageway when connected together. The gear assembly uses lubricant in the transmission and that lubricant is cooled by being pumped from the gear assembly through a lubricant passageway in the inboard head and then recycled back to the gear assembly for further use. In addition to cooling the lubricant, the system warms the fluid pump and/or fluid passing through the fluid pump. |
| US08678742B2 |
Clearance control system, turbomachine and method for adjusting a running clearance between a rotor and a casing of a turbomachine
The invention relates to a clearance control system for adjusting a running clearance (L) between a rotor (12) having rotor blades (10) of a turbomachine (14), especially a gas turbine, and a casing (18) that surrounds at least sections thereof and comprises at least two segments (16a-d), the clearance control system having at least one adjusting device (20), which can be coupled to at least one segment (16a-d) of the casing (18), and by means of which the at least one segment (16a-d) can be moved radially in relation to a rotational axis (D) of the rotor (12) for adjusting the running clearance (L), wherein each segment (16a-d) of the casing (18) is coupled to at least three adjusting devices (20) of the clearance control system. The invention also relates to a turbomachine (14), especially a gas turbine, as well as to a method for adjusting a running clearance (L). |
| US08678733B2 |
Structure for transporting and installing or retrieving underwater equipment and method of transporting and of installing or retrieving underwater equipment
The structure (10) for transporting and installing or retrieving underwater equipment comprises a floating hull (11) equipped with legs (20) that can be moved vertically relative to the floating hull (11), a platform (60) carried by shuttles (30) each associated with a leg (20) and able to be moved vertically relative to the hull (11) by said legs (20), means of temporarily anchoring the equipment to the underside of the platform (60) and means (65, 66) of moving said equipment in the water between a first position pressed against the anchoring means and a second position away from said means. |
| US08678729B2 |
Fully grouted mine roof bolt with expansion anchor
A reinforcement system characterized by being formed by a standard helical rod, an expansion head adapted to the thread of the rod, a conical element made of a plastic material, a tube or sheath made of corrugated plastic, a reinforcement plate, and a standard threaded reinforcement nut, according to the helical rod employed, in order to provide immediate mechanical anchoring and the option of subsequent mortar injection. |
| US08678726B1 |
Anchoring system
An anchoring system utilized in securing and transporting a motorcycle or other vehicle includes a strap, a ratchet and at least one anchor device securable to the bed of a transport mechanism. An embodiment herein includes a remote anchor device that attaches at one end to the strap ratchet and at another end to the bed of a transport mechanism. |
| US08678724B2 |
Tool holder and machine tool
A tool holder includes: a shank portion gripped by a main shaft; a tool attachment portion having an insertion port into which a tool is inserted in a tip end surface thereof; a cover having a tubular wall that covers an outer periphery of the tool attachment portion and a bottom surface that covers the tip end surface of the tool attachment portion; a bearing provided between the tubular wall of the cover and the tool attachment portion; and a stopper that prevents the cover from co-rotating with the tool attachment portion. A through hole penetrated by the tool and an ejection port disposed on a periphery of the through hole in order to eject the coolant toward the tool are provided in the bottom surface of the cover. |
| US08678722B2 |
Rotatable tool for chip removing machining as well as a loose top therefor
A rotatable tool for chip removing machining, including a basic body having front and rear ends between which a first center axis (C1) extends around which the basic body is rotatable, and a loose top having front and rear ends between which a second center axis (C2) extends. The front end of the basic body includes a jaw which is delimited by two torque-transferring drivers and an intermediate bottom in which a part of the loose top is receivable, and a center hole that mouths in the bottom of the jaw and has a hole wall which extends axially inside the basic body and in which a threaded hole mouths for a screw to co-operate with a centering pin that protrudes axially rearward from the loose top, the centering pin being insertable into the center hole. The centering pin has a cross-sectional area that is less than a cross-sectional area of the center hole. The centering pin includes two diametrically opposed surfaces, a first one of the surfaces forming a contact surface that extends tangentially between two axially running boundary generatrices which are situated along an imaginary circumscribed circle (S1), the center of which coincides with the center axis (C2) of the loose top, and between which an arc angle (α) is less than 180°. The contact surface, via the boundary generatrices, transforms into a second one of the surfaces that is spaced-apart inwardly from the circumscribed circle (S1). |
| US08678720B2 |
Tapping attachment
A radial tapping attachment for a motor-driven tool includes an enclosed, box-shaped housing, a main shaft assembly adapted to retain a tap, a drive mechanism rotatably driven by the tool and a guide member assembly for supporting an object to be tapped. The main shaft assembly includes a main shaft rotatably coupled to the housing by a pair of bearings, a pair of spaced apart discs fixedly mounted on the main shaft, and a pair of axially mounted compression springs that allow for slight, bi-directional, axial displacement of the main shaft relative to the housing. The drive mechanism includes a drive shaft rotatably coupled to the housing at an approximate right angle relative to the main shaft and a drive wheel mounted on the drive shaft that selectively engages the pair of discs to rotate the main shaft in either direction when an axial force is applied to the tap. |
| US08678719B2 |
Cutting tip, method of forming cutting tip, and method of manufacturing cutting tip
A cutting tip including a cutting edge portion made of a high-hardness material to take a thin-plate shape; and a support portion made of a material which is more worn in contact with a workpiece than the cutting edge portion not to exert a machining action on the workpiece even in contact with the workpiece, and securing and supporting the cutting edge portion on a reverse side of a rake face of the cutting edge portion. Thus, the width of flank wear is prevented from increasing and chipping of the cutting edge is prevented, so that the life of the cutting tip can be extended. |
| US08678717B2 |
Cutting insert, cutting tool, and method of cutting work material using cutting tool
A cutting insert that includes a cutting edge; a rake face region formed continuously with the cutting edge; and a clamp face region located more inward and higher than the rake face region is provided. The cutting insert includes a first rake face formed continuously with the cutting edge; a second rake face formed in an inclined surface shape from the first rake face toward the clamp face region; a projection formed so that at least a part of the projection is located on the first rake face, and includes a top portion at a position corresponding to a middle region of the cutting edge; and a concave part or a convex part formed so that at least a part is located on the second rake face, and located more inward than the projection. Chip accumulation into the insert and frictional resistance generated in the rake face region is decreased. |
| US08678708B2 |
Subsea hydrocarbon containment apparatus
A subsea hydrocarbon containment apparatus comprises a containment housing. In addition, the containment apparatus comprises a diverter plate mounted to the containment housing. The containment housing is configured to receive direct hydrocarbon fluids from a subsea hydrocarbon source and direct the hydrocarbon fluids to the diverter plate. |
| US08678704B1 |
Interlocking revetment block with tapered surface
A revetment block with a top surface that is tapered upwardly from the upstream end to the downstream end. Thus, when a number of tapered blocks are installed end to end on a grade, the upstream end of any of the blocks can be raised due to underlying ground irregularities without degrading the safety factor of the blocks. The tapered revetment blocks can also be constructed with positive interlocking arms and sockets to enhance the integrity of a matrix of such blocks. |
| US08678702B1 |
Gravel grader
A gravel grading attachment assembly prepares gravel subgrade to a form prior to concrete placement. The assembly includes a main blade coupled to an attachment member to provide a straight bottom edge. First and second roller assemblies are coupled to and extend from the main blade. Each of a first roller and a second roller rotate in a plane substantially transverse to the straight bottom edge of the main blade. The first roller and the second roller rest upon spaced guide surfaces and the main blade is maintained at a consistent spacing relative to the guide surfaces as the first and second rollers are moved on the guide surfaces. |
| US08678697B2 |
Couplers and vehicles provided with couplers
The present invention provides a coupler (201), use of the coupler (201), and a utility vehicle having the coupler (201), the coupler (201) having a body portion and a linearly movable rail (235), arranged to be moved by an actuator, the body portion comprising an open jaw (207) arranged to receive a mounting formation of a tool, the rail having a first position in which the rail (235) is retracted relative to the open jaw (207) and in which a mounting formation can enter a recess defined by the jaw (207) and an advanced position in which the rail (235) restricts the opening to the jaw (207), thereby arranged to trap, in use, the mounting formation in the recess. |
| US08678696B2 |
Seal assembly for track pin joint assembly
A seal assembly can be incorporated into a track pin joint assembly including a pin defining a longitudinal axis, a first member and a second member both coaxial with the pin about the longitudinal axis. The first member is pivotable about the longitudinal axis with respect to the second member and includes a load ring engagement surface defining, at least in part, an axially-extending seal cavity disposed in proximal relationship to the second member. A seal assembly including a seal ring and a load ring is disposed in the seal cavity and sealingly engages the first member and the second member. At least one of a load ring engagement surface of the first member and an axial segment of a first member engagement surface of the load ring includes a convex rounded portion extending over at least half the axial length thereof. |
| US08678695B2 |
Device for fastening a rollbar or similar attachment part on a vehicle
A device for fastening a rollbar or similar attachment part on a vehicle, in particular a vibration roller, includes an inner installation sleeve, which is or can be operationally linked to a bar receptacle on the vehicle, an outer installation sleeve, which at least partially encloses the inner installation sleeve and is or can be operationally linked to the rollbar, and at least one elastomeric element, which positions the inner installation sleeve relative to the outer installation sleeve in such a way that the two sleeves are spaced apart from one another while partially forming a vibration clearance. In addition, the present invention relates to a rollbar or similar attachment parts for attachment on a vehicle, in particular on a vibration roller, having at least one device according to the above-mentioned type, which is implemented, in particular integrated on the rollbar. |
| US08678694B2 |
Aircraft reaction link
An aircraft reaction link includes a pair of linear portions, a coupling portion that couples ends of the pair of linear portions on the same side to each other, a fulcrum shaft attachment portion, and a cylinder attachment portion. A metal frame that is made of a metallic material and that is provided so as to extend across the coupling portion and the pair of linear portions and a composite frame that is made of fiber-reinforced plastic and that is provided so as to extend at least in the pair of linear portions are bonded together, and thereby, the pair of linear portions and the coupling portion are formed. The metal frame is provided so as to extend from the fulcrum shaft attachment portion to the cylinder attachment portion. |
| US08678693B2 |
Brush head for use on a container for dispensing a composition
A brush for providing a composition to a surface. The brush includes a base and a plurality of bristles. The plurality of bristles have a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is functionally attached to the base and the distal end has a greater bristle density than the proximal end. The plurality of bristles forms at least one flow path from the distal end towards the proximal end. |
| US08678692B2 |
Double-ended makeup brush tool having automatic sealing structure
A double-ended makeup brush tool having an automatic sealing structure, in which respective brushes provided in opposite ends of a barrel can be selectively and alternately used, so that, when one brush is used, the other brush can be disinfected by a disinfectant inside the barrel, thereby being kept clean. When a user presses the rear end of the cartridge with the finger, the locking protrusion of the cartridge is removed from a rear locking hole of the barrel and is caught by a front locking hole and, in the above state, the brush hole of the barrel is opened by an anti-drying unit and a first brush can be ejected from the barrel through the open brush hole. When the locking protrusion is removed from the front locking hole and is caught by the rear locking hole, the first brush can be retracted into the barrel and the anti-drying unit closes the brush hole. |
| US08678691B2 |
Writing implement
A writing implement. A tubular outer shell (11) is provided outside a grip member (10), an inner shell (12) made of a soft material is provided entirely inside the outer shell (11), and the inner shell (12) is covered with the moderately hard outer shell (11). Thus, while the inner shell (12) inside can allow the user to feel the fit, the outer shell (11) outside prevents the inner shell (12) from getting damaged or worn even if the inner shell (12) is soft, so as to fully secure durability of the grip member (10). Since a thin part (11A) of the outer shell (11) is sufficiently thin on a swell (13), the excellent fit can be given to the user even if the outer shell (11) is formed of a hard elastic material to fully secure the durability of the grip member (10). |
| US08678690B2 |
Cutter device and printing apparatus
A cutter device includes a cutter configured to cut a material to be cut; a carriage having a cutter and moving in a widthwise direction with respect to a feeding direction of the material to be cut; and a guide unit configured to guide the carriage in the widthwise direction and, assuming that the movement of the carriage when the cutter cuts the material to be cut is an outward route, a homeward route of the cutter of the carriage is different from the outward route of the cutter, and is shifted from the outward route toward one material to be cut which moves first in the direction away from the other material to be cut in the feeding direction immediately after the cutting from between the materials to be cut divided into two parts. |
| US08678686B2 |
Multi-chain lipophilic polyamines
There are provided multi-chain lipophilic polyamine compounds and derivatives thereof, pharmaceutical formulations comprising the same, method of making and using said compounds or formulations. |
| US08678684B2 |
Developing method
A method of developing a substrate including rotating the substrate and supplying a developing liquid from a discharge port of a developer nozzle onto the surface of the substrate, while moving the developer nozzle, disposed above the substrate, from a central portion towards a peripheral portion of the substrate, and supplying a first rinse liquid from a discharge port of a first rinse nozzle onto the surface of the substrate, while moving the first rinse nozzle, disposed above the substrate, from the central portion towards the peripheral portion of the substrate. The supplying of the developing liquid and the first rinse liquid are performed concurrently, with the first rinse nozzle being maintained nearer to a center of the substrate than the developer nozzle. |
| US08678682B2 |
Device for controlling a central shutter
A device for controlling a central shutter, in which a plurality of shutter leaves (3) are mounted on a circularly annular leaf carrier (1) such that they can be pivoted on a pivoting arm (4), and in which, as actuating device for the pivoting movement of the shutter leaves (3), an annular cam plate (5) is mounted on the leaf carrier (1) concentrically with respect to the shutter opening (2), such that it can be rotated continuously in one direction, it being possible for the rotation of the cam plate (5) to be blocked by mechanical engagement into a cam trough (8) in front of an actuating flank (6) of a cam, is distinguished by the fact that, for mechanical blocking purposes, there is a push rod (9, 10) of a solenoid, which push rod (9, 10) can be moved perpendicularly with respect to the plane of the cam plate (5). |
| US08678677B2 |
Systems and methods for adapting a mounting device to facilitate capturing of images
Systems and methods for recording images and providing a selected movement or position to a recording device include use of attachment members having a receptacle that receives and is engageable with the distal end of an elongate member of a device for mounting a camera or similar apparatus. As such, the camera may be rolled providing movement suitable for video capture or capture of other types of images that require camera movement, or otherwise positioned as needed. |
| US08678676B2 |
Tilt shift lens adapter
A tilt shift lens adapter having an adapter body with first and second body portions configured to provide precision tilting and shifting functions is disclosed. Opposite sides of the adapter body are configured to respectively engage a camera and a lens. Tilting and shifting are precisely controlled using precision tilting and shifting mechanisms. The tilting mechanism includes a neutral setting for ensuring precise parallelism between the lens and camera flanges when required. The adapter includes a mount to provide good balance and holding strength when heavy lenses are attached. An optional aperture adjustment mechanism manually adjusts lenses having no aperture ring. |
| US08678671B2 |
Optical fiber tool
A tool for cleaving a plastic optical fiber has a body with a cleaving aperture at the insertion face of the body and through which the termination end section of the plastic optical fiber is inserted and in which an operative section is positioned upon inserting the plastic optical fiber into the tool. A cutting blade has a cutting edge and is moveable along a cutting path between a first operative position at which the cutting edge is spaced from the cleaving axis and a second operative position at which the cutting edge intersects the cleaving axis to cleave the plastic optical fiber to create an optical finish on an end surface of the operative section of the plastic optical fiber. A clearance region is located at the termination face of the body and generally aligned with the cleaving aperture and in which the termination end section may deflect upon engagement of the cutting blade with the plastic optical fiber. |
| US08678668B2 |
Overmolded ferrule boot and methods for making the same
Overmolded ferrule assemblies and methods for making the same are disclosed. Some embodiments include positioning a first plurality of fibers in an alignment fixture in a predetermined arrangement such that a predetermined length of the first plurality of fibers extends beyond an end of the alignment fixture. Similarly, some embodiments include positioning a cover portion of the alignment fixture onto the first plurality of fibers, such that corresponding cover recesses on the cover portion align with the corresponding base recesses on the base portion. One method includes the steps of injecting a flowable material into a port on the alignment fixture, waiting a predetermined time for the flowable material to cure, and after the predetermined time, separating the base portion and the cover portion from the first plurality of fibers and the flowable material to create the overmolded ferrule boot. |
| US08678666B2 |
Hybrid fiber/copper connector system and method
A hybrid fiber/copper connector assembly which permits repair of damaged fibers or copper conductors carried by a hybrid fiber/copper cable without requiring replacement of the entire connector assembly or the cable is disclosed. The hybrid fiber/copper connector assembly disclosed also allows individual hybrid fiber/copper connectors of the assembly to be converted from one gender to a different gender. The hybrid fiber/copper connectors of the assembly include removable keying members mountable to housings of the connectors. The removable keying members allow gender conversion and proper mating and orientation. The hybrid fiber/copper connector assembly also allows the individual connectors of the assembly to be converted from being hybrid fiber/copper connectors to being only fiber connectors or only copper connectors. |
| US08678662B2 |
Drive wheel bearing device
A drive wheel bearing device is provided with an outer member, an inner member, double-row rolling elements and a constant velocity joint. The inner member includes double-row inner races opposite outer races of the outer member, a first inner member, and a second inner member formed with at least one of the double-row inner races, the first inner member and the second inner member being inseparably coupled together at a flange-like swaged portion. The constant velocity joint includes an outer joint member press-fitted to an inner periphery of the first inner member with torque transmission means formed therebetween that transmits torque by engagement of a plurality of axially extending teeth, wherein the torque transmitting teeth of the first inner member have a tooth profile that is controlled within a specified range over the entire axial length of the teeth. |
| US08678659B2 |
Method for stabilizing guitar vibrato tuning
A guitar having a tremolo device with tonal stability is provided. |
| US08678655B1 |
Reinforced slewing bearing
A bearing assembly for a first part that rotates with respect to a second part may include a slewing bearing having an axis of rotation and inner and outer races concentric with the axis of rotation. The inner race may be fixed to the first part and the outer race may be fixed to the second part. An inner, annular catch ring may be fixed to and adjacent to a lower surface of the inner race. An outer, annular catch ring may be fixed to and interposed between a lower surface of the outer race and the second part. A portion of the outer catch ring may be disposed below and adjacent to the lower surface of the inner race. |
| US08678654B2 |
Axial bearing for use in a hydraulic device, a hydraulic transformer and a vehicle with a hydraulic drive system
An axial bearing between a first part and a second part that presses with an axial load against the first part and can rotate around a rotation axis relative to the first part comprising a circular or arc-shaped ridge on the first part centered around the rotation axis, a pressure source for providing pressurized hydraulic fluid on a first side of the circular or arc-shaped ridge, an adjustable gap between the circular or arc shaped ridge and a bearing surface on the second part, wherein the pressurized hydraulic fluid flows through the adjustable gap to a second side of the circular or arc-shaped ridge. In accordance with the invention the circular or arc-shaped ridge or the bearing surface include a ridge chamber for locally creating a larger adjustable gap between the circular or arc-shaped ridge and the bearing surface. |
| US08678649B2 |
Conversion of existing portable or mobile analog radiographic apparatus for enabling digital radiographic applications
A kit for converting an existing mobile or portable film X-ray examination apparatus typically configured solely for analog radiography to enable said examination apparatus for digital radiographic applications. The kit includes a tablet PC that is attached to the wheeled chassis of the mobile or portable apparatus, and an input/output device used to divert the exposure control signal from the user actuable exposure control switch of the apparatus to the tablet PC. The tablet PC includes image processing software that controls the operation of a digital flat panel detector. The tablet PC can further be used to separately control other mobile or portable apparatus or a facility or examination room that was previously configured only for analog radiography. |
| US08678644B2 |
Hot gas path measurement
A hot gas path measurement apparatus is provided and includes a substrate having a coating applied on a surface thereof such that the coating is interposed between the substrate and a hot gas path; and a measurement device fixed in a recess formed in the substrate, the measurement device including a sensor, and a holder configured to position the sensor in an alignment condition with a plane of a surface of the coating or at least partially within a span of the hot gas path. |
| US08678643B2 |
Method for non-destructive testing of at least partially open hollow components or system components for tightness in series production
A method for non-destructive testing of open hollow components for tightness supplies a gas under pressure into the component and cools the component in a punctiform manner. Detecting a leak out of the component using a thermographic camera and using a computer connected downstream of the thermographic camera to visualise the leak, follows. The precise location of each leak is thus detected. |
| US08678640B2 |
Magnetic fluid manipulators and methods for their use
Device and methods for use of these devices to manipulate substantially non-magnetic particles dispersed inside a magnetic fluid by employing a changeable pattern of local magnetic field maxima and minima are provided. |
| US08678638B2 |
Process bag container with sensors
A process bag container is provided comprising a flexible bag, at least one inlet sealed to the bag, and an outlet. A probe housing for a probe construction is sealed to the bag. Preferably, the probe housing extends at least partway into the bag interior and is connected to a cable for power and data transmission that runs along the outer surface of the bag to the top of the bag or its support container. The probe construction is adapted to monitor the composition of a reagent in the bag as well as the environment within the bag. A mixer is positioned within the bag to effect mixing of reagents in the bag. |
| US08678631B2 |
Vehicle headlamp assembly with convection airflow controlling plate
A vehicle headlamp assembly including a housing case and a lens cover forming a light chamber, a projection lens, a shade and a light source are arranged within the light chamber in that order along an optical axis of the headlamp assembly. A radiating member includes plate-shaped radiating fins vertically placed in the light chamber, for radiating heat energy generated by the light source to surrounding air. A plate is arranged at a right angle to the radiating fins in the light chamber, for controlling air-convection flow around the radiating fins. |
| US08678628B2 |
Projection lens for a vehicle light
A vehicle light using a projection lens of a novel appearance can provide a feeling of solidness as compared to a simple spherical shape. The vehicle light can include a projection lens having an optical axis and a plurality of separate lens portions divided in a radial pattern with respect to the optical axis of the projection lens. The separate lens portions can have respective light exiting surfaces of different curvatures, and respective light incident surfaces, the shapes of which are determined such that the separate lens portions have the same thickness and the same focal point. |
| US08678626B1 |
Lighted bed rails
A lighted bed rail may be used with a vehicle. The lighted bed rail may comprise a central tube member, a first end member, a second end member, and at least one lighting apparatus. The central tube member may comprise a first end, a second end, and a tube wall, the tube wall comprising an inner surface and an outer surface. At least one lighting apparatus may be disposed on or within the first end member, second end member, or central tube member. The lighting apparatus may be capable of projecting light onto at least a portion of the inner surface of the tube wall of the central tube member. The tube wall of the central tube member may be sufficiently transparent or translucent to allow for the transmission of light projected from the lighting apparatus through at least a portion of the tube wall of the central tube member. |
| US08678622B2 |
Wrap-around window for lighting module
Lighting modules include a housing, a window attached to the housing, and an array of light-emitting elements that are positioned within the housing and emit light through the window. The window has a first surface and a second surface. The light from the array of light-emitting elements is emitted through the first surface and the second surface of the window. In some examples, the first surface and the second surface of the window are angled with respect to each other. |
| US08678614B2 |
Light source system
A light source system includes two solid-state light sources, two filters, a rotary wheel, a first reflector, a second reflector and a multiband filter is provided. The rotary wheel has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The two solid-state light sources and the two filters are disposed in front of the first surface. The first surface includes a first waveband converting region, a reflecting region and a transmission region. The second surface includes a second waveband converting region is symmetrical to the first waveband converting region. The first reflector, the second reflector and the multiband filter are disposed in front of the second surface. Furthermore, the multiband filter is disposed between and optically coupled with the first and the second reflectors. With these arrangements, the light source system could provide light beams of different wavebands to the light valve of a projector. |
| US08678607B2 |
Solar or wind powered assembly
An assembly comprising at least one energy consuming device; the at least one energy consuming device being mounted to a support; at least one solar element for creating electric power from solar power; at least one battery for storing electricity generated by the solar element; at least one wind vane operatively associated with the support; at least one energy converter for generating electric power from the wind; and at least one shaft operatively connected to the at least one energy converter and the supports. Optionally, the energy converter comprises at least one motor which operates to rotate the support; the at least one motor being operatively connected to the at least one battery for storing electric power therein. |
| US08678603B2 |
Backlight module having elastic holder and liquid crystal display employing same
The present disclosure provides a backlight module. The backlight module includes a light source, a thermal plate, a back cover and an elastic holder. The light source is arranged on the thermal plate. The thermal plate is arranged on the back cover, and includes a first hole defined therein. The back cover includes a second hole defined therein, and the second hole overlaps with the first hole. The elastic holder penetrates through the first hole and the second hole, holds two surfaces of the thermal plate and the back cover apart from each other for fixing the thermal plate on the back cover. The present disclosure further provides a liquid crystal display. |
| US08678602B2 |
Cantilever indicator for vehicle instrument cluster
An instrument panel assembly for a vehicle includes a main gauge that defines a main display area and a plurality of cantilevered light guides that are supported on the main gauge and extend outwardly from the main gauge. Each of the light guides are formed from a clear material providing visibility through each of the light guides. A corresponding plurality of lights selectively illuminates each of the plurality of cantilevered light guides. An etched surface is formed on the surface of each of the cantilevered light guides in the shape of a numeral or symbol. The illumination of the etched area on the clear cantilevered light guide creates the appearance that the symbols or numerals are floating proximate the main gauge and thereby generate desired aesthetic features while communicating information to a vehicle operator. |
| US08678600B2 |
Optical star coupler
An optical device may include a light transmissive medium having two sides. On one side may be a high reflectivity mirror and on the other side may be a plurality of partial reflectivity mirrors that may be guided mode resonance or nanodot mirrors. An optical system may have a plurality of light inputs, a light transmissive medium, and a plurality of light outputs from the light transmissive medium The light transmissive medium may have a high reflectivity mirror on one side and a plurality of partial reflectivity mirrors on a second side. |
| US08678597B2 |
Projection type display device
It is possible to reliably prevent dust particles from becoming attached to optical components and it is also possible to suppress temperature rises in optical components. A projection type display device according to the present invention includes a plurality of optical components (20, 21, 24, 30, and so on), a hollow structure (45, 50, or the like), and an air blow source (19, 46, or the like). The plurality of optical components are provided along the optical axis direction of light emitted from a light source. The hollow structure includes optical components (20, 24) that are to be protected from the attachment of dust particles to optical components among the plurality of optical components, and forms an enclosed space separated from the surroundings. Then, the source that blows air is provided in the inside of the enclosed space to circulate the internal air for cooling targets. |
| US08678590B2 |
Apparatus and method for imaging optical coherence tomographic image
An ophthalmic imaging apparatus for imaging a subject's eye includes a detection unit configured to detect facts that the subject's eye moves by an amount of movement thereof, which is equal to or more than a predetermined value, and that the movement thereof is finished, and an imaging start unit configured to start imaging of the subject's eye according to a result of detection by the detection unit. |
| US08678589B2 |
Gaze target determination device and gaze target determination method
A gaze target determination device includes an event setting unit that generates, for each object at different times, a display event which triggers a movement of the gaze direction of the user who is gazing at the object and which indicates a movement or a change of the object; and a gaze trajectory calculation unit that calculates a gaze trajectory based on the detected user's gaze direction. An eye movement event detection unit detects an event detection time which is a time at which the gaze direction moves according to the display event, based on the calculated gaze trajectory. A synchronization structure analysis unit calculates, for each object, time difference between the event detection time and event occurrence time; and a gaze target determination unit determines the object at which the user is gazing from among the objects, based on the calculated time difference. |
| US08678588B2 |
Optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus
Optical coherence tomographic imaging apparatus creating tomographic image of inspection object includes light splitting means for splitting light from light source into a single reference light and a single sample light, optical path length changing means for changing optical path length of the single reference light, reference light splitting means for splitting the single reference light whose optical path length is changed into a plurality of reference lights, sample light splitting means for splitting the single sample light into a plurality of sample lights, irradiation means for irradiating the inspection object by leading the plurality of sample lights thereto, interference signal forming means for combining returning lights of the plurality of the sample lights from the inspection object irradiated by the irradiation means with the plurality of reference lights passed through the reference-light path, and interference signal obtaining means for obtaining an interference signal from the interference signal forming means. |
| US08678587B2 |
Assessment of topographic semi-meridian parameters for corneal astigmatism analysis and vector planning treatment
Techniques are disclosed in which a topographic parameter is determined in each semi-meridian of the eye by considering the topography in each of three concentric zones from the central axis at 3 mm, 5 mm, and 7 mm and assigning weighting factors for each zone, By selectively treating the weighted values in the three zones, parameters of magnitude and meridian can be obtained for each semi-meridian. From these parameters, a single topographic value for the entire eye (CorT) can be found as well as a value representing topographic disparity (TD) between the two semi-meridians. The topography values for the semi-meridians are used in a vector planning system to obtain treatment parameters in a single step operation. |
| US08678582B2 |
Optically decentered face shield
A method of making a protective shield is provided. The method comprises molding an arcuate lens blank having an optical center displaced from an apex of the lens to a position near or beyond the edge of the protective shield. This reduces the object shift as wearer of the lens shifts gaze from a normal straight ahead line of sight to an activity specific line of sight that is vertically displaced from the normal straight ahead line of sight. |
| US08678577B2 |
Ink set and image formation method
The present invention provides an ink set including an ink composition and a maintenance liquid that removes from a head nozzle surface a substance that is derived from the ink composition and that adheres to the head nozzle surface, the ink composition including a pigment coated with a water-insoluble polymer formed by copolymerizing a monomer mixture including a styrene macromer; polymer particles; a water-soluble organic solvent; and water. |
| US08678576B2 |
Fluid container with bubble eliminator
A container for holding a volume of fluid includes a first fluid chamber having an entry port and a bubble eliminator with at least one bubble-piercing protrusion for pricking bubbles as the volume of fluid flows through the bubble eliminator. The container further includes a second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the first fluid chamber for receiving the volume of fluid from the first fluid chamber. |
| US08678568B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a recording head including plural nozzles discharging liquid droplets; a head tank supplying liquid to the recording head; plural head holders each holding one or more recording heads and head tanks; a carriage exchangeably supporting the plural head holders; a main tank storing liquid to be supplied to the head tank; and plural liquid supply tubes supplying the liquid from the main tank to the head tank. Further, the plural liquid supply tubes are branched into plural groups corresponding to the plural head holders at the carriage and are connected to corresponding head tanks. |
| US08678565B2 |
Electromechanical transducer
An electromechanical transducer (1) has a pressurizing chamber (21) and a side-chamber (23) formed in a plate (11). On a driven film (13) forming the upper wall surface (21a) of the pressurizing chamber (21) and the side-chamber (23), a lower electrode (33), a driving member, and an upper electrode (35) are formed in this order. The driving member is composed of an operation section (31p) located over the pressurizing chamber (21), and an extended section (31a) extending from the operation section (31p) to over the side-chamber (23). The side-chamber (23) has a smaller width than the pressurizing chamber (21) in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which the side-chamber (23) is located beside the pressurizing chamber (21). The extended section (31a) of the driving member has a smaller width than the side-chamber (23) in the second direction. |
| US08678563B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus, and piezoelectric element
An electrode is provided with a lanthanum nickelate film which is formed through a chemical solution deposition method using a lanthanum nickelate film forming composition which is obtained by heating a mixed solution obtained by mixing at least lanthanum acetate, nickel acetate, acetic acid, and water, a piezoelectric layer is provided on the lanthanum nickelate film and is formed of a complex oxide having a perovskite structure which contains at least Pb, Ti, and Zr, and a half-width (θ) of a peak derived from a (100) plane and/or a peak derived from a (001) plane measured using an X-ray rocking curve method is 6.0 degrees or less. |
| US08678561B2 |
Liquid discharging head and method for producing the same
There is provided a liquid discharging head discharging a liquid, including: a channel unit having a liquid channel including a pressure chamber which has an opening at one surface of the channel unit; a piezoelectric element formed of a piezoelectric material; an intermediate member preventing the liquid in the pressure chamber and the piezoelectric element from making contact with each other; a first adhesive layer composed of a first adhesive and adhering the channel unit and the intermediate member, the first adhesive being a thermo-setting adhesive starting to be cured at a first temperature; and a second adhesive layer composed of a second adhesive and adhering the intermediate member and the piezoelectric element, the second adhesive starting to be cured at a second temperature lower than the first temperature. |
| US08678557B2 |
Substrate structure for ejection chip and method for fabricating substrate structure
Disclosed is a substrate structure for an ejection chip that includes a first substrate layer, a second substrate layer disposed beneath the first substrate layer, and an intermediate layer configured between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer. The substrate structure also includes a plurality of fluid channels configured within the second substrate layer. Further, the substrate structure includes a plurality of fluid ports configured within the first substrate layer. At least one fluid port of the plurality of fluid ports is configured in alignment with a corresponding fluid channel of the plurality of fluid channels. Furthermore, the substrate structure includes a plurality of slots configured within the intermediate layer such that the at least one fluid port is in fluid communication with the corresponding fluid channel. Further disclosed is a method for fabricating the substrate structure and an ejection chip employing the substrate structure. |
| US08678556B2 |
Liquid discharge recording head and method of manufacturing the same
A liquid discharge recording head includes: a recording element substrate, an electric wiring board, and a supporting plate that supports the recording element substrate and the electric wiring board, with a gap formed between the recording element substrate and the electric wiring board, and a connecting member that electrically connects, across the gap, an electrode provided in the recording element substrate and an electrode terminal provided in the electric wiring board. A first resin agent that is filled in the gap, a second resin agent seals the electrode, the electrode terminal, and the connecting member, and a third resin agent that is provided between the first resin agent and the supporting plate and has a lower modulus of elasticity than the first resin agent and the second resin agent. |
| US08678554B2 |
Liquid discharge head substrate
In a liquid discharge head substrate having a connection line connected to a plurality of energy generating elements, and arranged between adjacent energy generating elements, a distance between the adjacent energy generating elements, between which the connection line is not arranged, is provided to be narrower than a distance of a portion where the connection line is provided. |
| US08678550B2 |
Printhead assembly with laminated ink distribution stack
A print engine assembly includes an elongate chassis defining a print media exit slot; an elongate printhead assembly mounted relative to the chassis and configured to eject ink onto print media; a paper feed mechanism configured to transport the print media past the elongate printhead and out through the exit slot, the paper feed mechanism comprising a pair of bearing moldings received within and mounted on opposite ends of the chassis, the paper feed mechanism further comprising at least one roller mounted between the bearing moldings and a motor mounted to one of said bearing moldings to drive said at least one roller; and a platen member extending parallel to the printhead, the platen member mounted in the bearing moldings. A pair of spacers is mounted to either end of the chassis and on which said printhead assembly is mounted. |
| US08678546B2 |
Cap device and liquid jetting apparatus provided with the same
There is provided a cap device including: a cap unit which is tiltable in a plane direction of the jetting surface and which comes into close contact with the jetting surface of the liquid jetting head; a flexible discharge tube of which one end is connected to the cap unit, which communicates with an inner space defined by the cap unit and the jetting surface under a condition that the cap unit comes into close contact with the jetting surface, and through which a liquid in the inner space is discharged; and a fixing mechanism which fixes a portion, of the discharge tube, other than the one end to the cap unit. |
| US08678544B2 |
Ink set and image recording method
There is provided an ink set including an aqueous ink composition and a maintenance liquid. The aqueous ink composition includes water; a pigment; resin particles having a minimum film-forming temperature MFT0, which is a minimum film-forming temperature obtained when the resin particles are dispersed in water, of 60° C. or higher; and a water-soluble organic solvent, wherein a minimum film-forming temperature MFT25 of the resin particles, which is a minimum film-forming temperature obtained when the resin particles are mixed with the water-soluble organic solvent in an amount of 25% by mass relative to the solid content of the resin particles, and water, is at least 40° C. lower than MFT0. The maintenance liquid includes an organic solvent and water. There is also provided an image recording method. |
| US08678542B2 |
Systems and methods for communication of date information between an ink tank and a printing device
Some or all of the needs above can be addressed by embodiments of the invention. According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for determining ink evaporation from at least one ink tank can be provided. The method can include determining a removal time associated with removal of at least one ink tank from a printing device. The method can also include determining an insertion time associated with insertion of the at least one ink tank into a printing device. In addition, the method can include estimating an amount of ink evaporation from the at least one ink tank during the time between the removal time and insertion time based at least in part on the difference between the removal time and insertion time. |
| US08678540B2 |
Image capturing device and recording apparatus
An image capturing device includes: a housing; a reference pattern used for color measurement and arranged in the housing; an image capturing element that captures an image of the reference pattern in a first area and an image of an object in a second area of the image capturing area; an image forming element causing the image of the reference pattern and the image of the object to be formed on the image capturing element by being arranged on a first optical path between the image capturing element and the reference pattern and a second optical path between the image capturing element and the object; and an optical member that guides any one of the images of the reference pattern and the object formed by the image forming element so that the images are to be formed on an element surface of the image capturing element. |
| US08678521B2 |
Vehicular brake control system for vehicle
A brake control system includes at least a pair of brake systems respectively connected to a pair of brake operating members L1, L2, and a control unit 10 for controlling the brake forces of the pair of brake systems interlockingly according to a predetermined distribution ratio by operating one of the pair of brake operating members L1, L2. The control unit 10 executes a decreasing control on the brake forces in such a manner that, when releasing the pair of brake operating members L1, L2, the control unit 10 decreases both of the brake forces together, even in a state where the control unit performs the interlocking control so as to decrease the brake force of one of the brake system as the brake force of the other of the brake system is increased in accordance with the predetermined distribution ratio. |
| US08678515B2 |
Mine refuge
A mine refuge for use in a mine includes a chamber sized and shaped for occupancy by at least one miner and adapted to be substantially sealed. An oxygen supply is installed in the chamber for supplying oxygen to the chamber. A breathable air supply is installed in the chamber for supplying a steady flow of breathable air and for positively pressurizing the chamber to inhibit entry of contaminated mine air into the chamber. |
| US08678514B2 |
Method for converting hydrates buried in the waterbottom into a marketable hydrocarbon composition
A method for producing hydrocarbons wherein hydrates are excavated from the sea bottom and mixed into a transportable slurry, the slurry being pumped to a support vessel, using near sea bottom positive displacement hydraulic pumps, where the hydrates are converted into a hydrocarbon containing stream, with excavation tailings being pumped down to hydraulic motors to drive the hydraulic pumps. |
| US08678507B2 |
Operating lever structure for vehicle seat, and method of manufacturing operating lever structure
In an operating lever structure for a vehicle seat in which an opening through which a seat belt extends is provided adjacent to a seat cushion lifting and lowering mechanism and a fixed end portion of the seat belt is connected to a seat cushion frame, a lifter lever includes a plate-like extending portion that is coupled to the lifting and lowering mechanism and a protrusion portion. The plate-like extending portion extends toward a front of the seat. The protrusion portion extends from the front end of the plate-like extending portion toward the outside in the seat width direction. The protrusion portion protrudes from an outer shield through a first exposing port of the outer shield, installed to a side portion of the seat cushion. |
| US08678505B2 |
Seat cushion of vehicle seat
A seat cushion of vehicle seat including a seat cushion frame and a bottom panel member on which a foam padding is mounted. The bottom panel member has a thigh support area fixed to a forward portion of the seat cushion frame and a buttocks support area situated in a rearward portion of the seat cushion frame. The buttocks support area has a resiliently deformable area in which are formed beads, each being resiliently stretchable laterally relative to the central line thereof by a downward load applied to the buttocks support area, whereby the resiliently deformable area is rendered deformable and displaceable downwardly. The buttocks support area may be made narrow by forming two inwardly curved edge portions in the respective sides thereof to thereby allow that buttocks support area to be warped downwardly. Hence, the buttocks support area is resiliently displaceable vertically relative to the seat cushion frame. |
| US08678504B1 |
Seat assembly for chair
A seat assembly includes a molded plastic shell and an embedded frame. The seat assembly can include a seat bottom and a seat back which are connected by a curved backstop. The curve of the backstop is dictated by the embedded frame. The seat assembly can be part of a modular chair system, in which the seat assembly can be attached to a chair base, without or without optional arms. The seat assembly can be transferred between a low density stacking chair base and a high density stacking chair base without modification of the seat assembly. The arms can be attached to the chair base without modification of the chair base. A method for attaching a seat assembly to a chair base is also provided. |
| US08678501B2 |
Backrest folding mechanism for a vehicle seat
A backrest folding mechanism for a vehicle seat is provided, that includes a backrest, which has an actuating element that is arranged remotely from the backrest and acts remotely on the backrest folding mechanism in order to unlock a locking and unlocking element of the backrest with respect to a retaining element on the bodywork that is connectable to the locking and unlocking element, after which the backrest can be moved from an initial position that is substantially vertical or slightly inclined into a folded position. |
| US08678500B2 |
Seat, in particular a vehicle seat, having a deformation element, and method for activating a deformation element of a seat
A seat according to the invention, in particular a vehicle seat (25), comprises a seat frame (29), a seat surface (31) and at least one deformation element acting between the seat frame (29) and the seat surface (31), at least the one deformation element being capable of automatic activation in order to compensate actively for vibrations transmitted via the seat frame (29) to a person sitting on the seat. The invention also relates to a method for activating a deformation element of a seat, in particular a vehicle seat (25), which acts between a seat frame (29) and a seat surface (31) of the seat. |
| US08678496B2 |
Pivot pin retainer mechanism
A vehicle seat assembly 12 having a bracket assembly, the vehicle seat assembly 12 having a first seat back 22 having a seat frame member, and a second seat back 24 having a seat frame member, the bracket assembly having a first bracket 44 coupled to the first seat back 22, preferably the seat frame member, the first bracket 44 having an aperture 42, a second bracket 28 coupled to the second seat back 24, preferably the seat frame member, the second bracket 24 having a pivot pin 32 for insertion into the aperture 42 of the first bracket 22. The vehicle seat assembly 12 also including a retainer mechanism 34 for retaining the pivot pin 32 within the aperture 42 of the first bracket 22, the retainer mechanism 34 having a first bushing 40, a second bushing 36 and a retainer member 38. |
| US08678495B2 |
Vehicle seat with cushion plate
A vehicle seat is provided comprising: a seat back frame having a side frame; a headrest for supporting a head of a seat occupant; a load receiving member disposed behind the seat occupant and movable rearward in response to a load from the seat occupant; and a link member mounted to the seat back frame and rearwardly movable; wherein: a rearward movement of the load receiving member moves the link member rearward and reduces a distance between the head of the seat occupant and the headrest; the load receiving member is provided with a first through-hole and a second through-hole; and the first through-hole and the second through-hole are disposed in a same horizontal plane. |
| US08678494B2 |
Vehicle seat
There is provided a vehicle seat that includes a seat back frame having a pair of side frames disposed in a spaced manner in the right and left direction, a plate-like support body disposed between the pair of side frames to receive a load placed by the rearward movement of a passenger, a transmission section connecting the plate-like support body to a headrest via a link mechanism, and a holding member disposed in the link mechanism. The holding member is disposed at a position separating from a rotating shaft of a lower link by a predetermined distance to connect the lower link to the side frame, and keeps the distance between the lower link and the side frame at a predetermined value. |
| US08678493B2 |
Securing emergency and safety equipment on aircraft
An emergency equipment system comprising an elongate member, an emergency equipment package, and a cutter. The elongate member may have a first end and an angled end. The emergency equipment package may have a sleeve on one side capable of receiving the elongate member from the angled end. The cutter may be attached to a side of the elongate member and may be capable of cutting the sleeve. |
| US08678489B1 |
Hunting chair
A hunting chair with several user-selectable configurations for hunting on hillsides includes a seat and back rest. A pair of support arms falls generally on the same plane as the seat and have a user-selectable length in a forward and a rearward direction. A cross brace may connect the support arms. Elongated extension members may define the user-selectable length. The elongated extension members or a pair of spikes may selectably define a pair of downwardly-extending legs. |
| US08678488B1 |
Roll blind system for panorama sun roof of vehicle
A roll blind system for a panorama sun roof of a vehicle opens front and rear roll blinds independently by dividing the panorama sun roof into two parts. The roll blind system includes: front and rear roll blinds disposed between right and left guide rails, disposed in front of and behind of the panorama sun roof and includes front and rear blind bars disposed on opposite ends of the and rear roll blinds; one cable engaged with a motor gear; a front shoe attached to a left end of the front blind bar and movable via the cable and a second cable end; a rear shoe attached to a right end of the rear blind bar and being movable via the cable and third and fourth cable ends; and a return spring connected to a front blind shaft extendable when the front blind bar is moved in the forward direction. |
| US08678483B2 |
Window assembly for an automobile hood
A window for an automobile hood, made of a transparent material, such as a polycarbonate sheet, sized and shaped to be a loose fit to an automobile hood cut-out. The window element may be held in place on the automobile by ring shaped, metallic trim elements. The trim elements may have outer edges that are an enlarged copy of the periphery the cut-out in the hood of the automobile and inner edges that are a reduced copy of the periphery the window element. In this way, the window element may be held in the cutout in the automobile hood, sandwiched between the upper and lower trim elements. By applying a suitable adhesive between the trim elements and the automobile hood, the trim and window elements may be fixed in place. |
| US08678482B2 |
Motor vehicle hood
A motor vehicle hood having a non-functional air scoop that appears to be a functional air scoop is provided. The motor vehicle hood can have a module with an opening and a top wall, a bottom wall and a pair of spaced apart sidewalls extending in a first direction away from the opening and providing an enclosure thereof. A grid can be attached to the module across the opening and the grid, top wall and bottom wall can be operatively arranged such that an appearance of an open passageway through the motor vehicle hood is provided when an individual stands a distance away from the hood and looks at the module. |
| US08678480B2 |
Functional panel and method for joining same
There is provided a functional panel that can be joined and disassembled with ease by solving problems with a functional panel including electrical conductors integrally molded therewith, causing occurrence of cracking on the surface thereof, or cracking of a molded unit around the periphery of the electrical conductor, thereby rendering the electrical conductor susceptible to a break when a flexural load, an impact load, and so forth, acts on the functional panel. The functional panel comprises a main body of a panel member, an electrical conductor coated with a semi-cured resin having heat resistance and insulation properties, and a reinforcing fiber having a continuous filament, for fixing the electrical conductor to the main body of the panel member to thereby provide enhancement, and the functional panel is formed by exposing one end, and the other end of the electrical conductor from respective end faces of the panel member formed by integral molding. |
| US08678478B2 |
Machine configurations employing passive and controllable cab mounts
A machine includes a frame and an operator cab supported by the frame. One or more passive mounts and one or more controllable mounts operatively connect the operator cab to the frame. The one or more controllable mounts include a housing, a pin mounted within the housing, a rheological fluid within the housing, and coils positioned relative to the housing to generate a field through the rheological fluid. An electronic control unit operatively associated with the coils and adapted to change a level of current applied to the coils to adjust an apparent viscosity of the rheological fluid to actively change the damping characteristics of the one or more controllable mounts. |
| US08678477B2 |
Utility vehicle cab suspension
A utility vehicle (10) comprising a cab (12) mounted to a frame (14) by cab suspension means (16) is provided. The cab suspension comprises rolling linkage (20) which permits only circumferential movement of the cab around a generally longitudinal axis (24;44), and vertical linkage (22) which permits only radial movement of the cab relative to said axis (24) or radial movement of the axis (44) relative to the frame. The rolling linkage and vertical linkage are connected in series between the cab and the frame thus allowing independent resolution of rolling movement and vertical movement. The cab suspension means further comprises two spring/dampers (28,38; 58,38) arranged to independently control the stiffness and damping within the two degrees of freedom, namely roll and vertical movement. |
| US08678474B1 |
Self-repositioning aerodynamic skirt
A resilient strut adapted to secure an aerodynamic skirt to a trailer is provided, the aerodynamic skirt comprising a skirt panel including a front portion and a rear portion adapted to be substantially longitudinally mounted to the trailer, the skirt panel being adapted to move away from the aerodynamic configuration when contacting a foreign object and to recover its aerodynamic configuration thereafter, the resilient strut includes a shape variation adapted to change the mechanical strength thereof and also adapted to sustain an elastic deformation allowing the resilient strut to bend when a load is applied to the resilient strut when the skirt panel moves away from the aerodynamic configuration and to self-recover its original shape when the load is removed. A kit of resilient struts, a method thereof and a trailer equipped with same are also provided. |
| US08678472B2 |
Hitch mounted camping assembly
A camping assembly is provided having a frame with a base and a superstructure, and a tent mounted on the frame superstructure, wherein the tent is configurable from a closed position for transport to an open position with the tent floor forming a cantilever relative to the frame. The camping assembly may be mounted on a typical vehicle trailer hitch by engaging the receiver, and braces extending from the frame superstructure to the vehicle act to stabilize the camping assembly during transport. The camping assembly may be used on or off of the vehicle. When the camping assembly is used off of the vehicle, it is supported on adjustable legs on outriggers, with the tent supported on top of the frame superstructure. |
| US08678468B2 |
Vehicle visor assembly with a center check clip
A check assembly portion of a visor assembly for a vehicle is generally fixedly coupled with the headliner of the vehicle roof near a center portion of the vehicle, away from the vehicle door or windows. Adapting a clip to a check assembly portion of a visor assembly to secure small lightweight items will deter such items from being exposed to weather or wind conditions near a vehicle door, a vehicle sunroof, or an exposed top, which a visor portion of a visor assembly typically becomes closer to such locations. The visor portion may also be operable between a deployed and a non-deployed position, wherein the clip on the check assembly may be concealed in the non-deployed position. |
| US08678467B2 |
Windshield mounting system
A system for mounting a windshield to a small vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle (“ATV”), a utility-terrain vehicle (“UTV”), or a snowmobile is disclosed. The system typically comprises a pair of receiving elements, each of them configured to be secured to the vehicle, typically the handlebar(s) thereof, and a corresponding pair of mounting elements secured to a windshield panel or panel assembly and configured to be respectively releasably received in the receiving elements. Each receiving element comprises a rotatable cam and each mounting element comprises a groove on an outwardly extending protrusion such that the cams can selectively engage the grooves in a locking engagement when the mounting elements are received in the receiving elements. |
| US08678464B2 |
ATV having arrangement for a passenger
An ATV includes a vehicle frame, a straddle type seat mounted to the frame for a driver, and a passenger support assembly positioned rearward of the driver. The passenger support assembly is comprised of a seat frame assembly and a seat assembly. The seat assembly is removably mounted to the seat frame assembly, and the seat frame assembly is pivotally movable relative to the vehicle frame. |
| US08678451B2 |
Gate latch
A gate latch for use with a gate may include a first handle to operate the gate latch from a first side of the gate and a second handle to operate the gate latch from a second side of the gate. |
| US08678447B2 |
Drill pipe system
A tubular threaded connection for coupling drill pipe segments to form a drill string is provided. Each of the segments has a tubular pipe body having a wall thickness of >0.5 inches (1.27 cm). The threaded connection comprises a pin end with an external thread, and a box end with an internal thread for threadable engagement with the external thread of the pin end. The pin shoulder extends between a pin base diameter and an outer pin bevel diameter; the box shoulder extends between a box base diameter and an outer box bevel diameter. The outer pin and box bevel diameters are between 7.75-8.688 inches (19.05-21.59 cm). The pin and box shoulders define a contact area such that, when the pin and box ends are threaded together with a make-up torque of >75,000 ft-lbs (1,079.36 kg-m), a load capacity of >2.0 million lbs (908,000 kg) is provided. |
| US08678445B2 |
Component connection
A connection between two annular sections of two components of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine that is installed in a motor vehicle. In an embodiment, the two components are coaxial to one another. The connection comprises an annular connecting element with a first ring section, and a second ring section concentric to the first ring section. The ring sections are axially connected to one another in a rigid fashion on the face side by means of a connecting region. The first ring section is rigidly connected to the annular section of the first component by means of a first connecting region spaced apart from the connecting region. The second ring section is rigidly connected to the annular section of the second component by means of a second connecting region spaced apart from the connecting region. The connection is characterized by a high fatigue strength under thermal stress. |
| US08678443B2 |
Connecting piece for a clamping connector
A clamping connector for pipes and/or tubes (2) made of a polymer material has at least two pipe/tube connecting elements (3). At least one connecting element (3) includes a plug-in region (5) which is provided with peripheral ribs (4, 4a, 4b), for slidingly connecting to each of a pipe and/or tube end (2a) against which a flange projection (6) abuts. At least one tooth-like projection (7) is disposed on the side of the flange projection (6), which is located opposite to the peripheral ribs (4, 4a, 4b). A free space (8) is provided between the flange projection (6) and the at least one tooth-like projection (7). A plurality of tooth-like projections (7) are disposed so as to be distributed across a periphery of the polymer connecting piece (4). In addition, gaps (9) are disposed between the individual tooth-like projections (7). In addition, the object is solved by means of a clamping connector for pipes and/or tubes (2) made of a polymer material comprising a polymer connecting piece (1) as described above. |
| US08678442B2 |
Forgery-proof security element with color shift effect
A tamper-proof security element includes at least one polymer spacer layer and two metal cluster layers. One or more of the layers, in addition to their function, fulfills a security feature in their color-shift set-up. |
| US08678441B2 |
Removable or peelable articles, advertisements, and illustrations from newspapers, magazines and publications
A sheet material is presented that has a first layer including first indicia and a second layer including second indicia, the second indicia being (i) the same as the first indicia and (ii) positioned directly over the first indicia. The second indicia of the second layer are removable from the first indicia of the first layer. The first layer is placed on a portion of the sheet material. The first indicia includes at least one of text, images, letters, words, designs, patterns, visual representations, photographs, logos, symbols and advertisements or a combination thereof. |
| US08678438B2 |
Seat belt apparatus for vehicle
A seat belt apparatus for a vehicle including an anchor metal plate coupled with a vehicle body by a fastening bolt to extensively support a seat belt and upper and lower covers to receive the anchor metal plate. A contact rib is formed on at least one side portion of the inner surface of the upper cover, and a sidewall is formed on a side portion of the lower cover to make contact with the contact rib. An arc-type rib is formed on the bottom plate of the lower cover corresponding to an outer peripheral portion of at least one side portion of the base portion of the anchor metal plate, and a connection rib is formed between the arc-type rib and the sidewall. An arc-type slot is formed on the bottom plate of the lower cover. |
| US08678436B2 |
Support bracket for a steering column assembly
A support bracket assembly for a steering column assembly comprises a first bracket part, a second bracket part which is fixed to the vehicle by at least one fastener, and at least one capsule which comprises a main body fixed to the first bracket part by a frangible connector. The main body of the capsule is fixed to the second bracket part by the at least one fastener. The main body includes at least one opening which is aligned with a corresponding opening in the first bracket part and the two aligned openings are filled with a frangible material that forms part of the frangible connector which secures the capsule to the first bracket part. A further opening is provided in the second bracket part which is coaxial with an opening in the capsule and filled with additional frangible material which forms a frangible connection between the capsule and the second bracket part. |
| US08678432B1 |
Releasable tether retention system
The present invention incorporates a tether release system within a conventional airbag system or a conventional vehicle occupant protection system. Release of an associated tether may simultaneously open a vent on an associated airbag. A housing contains an actuator contained within the housing for actuation of the tether release system upon receipt of a crash detection signal, for example. A first moving member is configured for receipt of a propulsive force emanating from the actuator upon actuation of the tether release system. A movable tether release member is contained within the housing wherein the movable tether release member operably communicates with the first moving member upon actuation of the tether release system, for release of an associated tether. |
| US08678431B2 |
Air bag with tether and pulley arrangement
An apparatus (10) for helping to control deployment of an inflatable protection device (14) includes a tether (150) having a first connection with a first portion (100, 104) of the protection device and a second connection with a second portion (102) of the protection device. A guide (156) is connected to the protection device (14). The tether (150) extends through the guide (156). The tether (150) is configured to move through the guide (156) in order to translate movement of the first portion (100, 104) of the protection device (14) in a first direction to movement of the second portion (102) of the protection device in a second direction different from the first direction. |
| US08678429B2 |
Occupant protection device
There is provided an occupant protection device. An airbag device includes an airbag that is stored in a center pad of a steering wheel of a vehicle and is expandable toward an occupant side upon a collision of the vehicle. The center pad is disposed to have a non-rotating structure independent from the steering wheel. The airbag includes a first extension portion and a second extension portion which are disposed at opposing edges of the airbag in a width direction of the vehicle and are expandable to extend toward a rear side of the vehicle. |
| US08678427B1 |
Releasable clip assembly facilitating trim panel movement
A vehicle body assembly includes a body structure, a trim panel connected to the body structure and an air bag located between the body structure and the trim panel. A releasable clip assembly connects the body structure and the trim panel. The releasable clip assembly includes a first mating component connected to the body structure and a second mating component connected to the trim panel. The second mating component has a lock position and a release position relative to the first mating component. In the lock position, the second mating component is engaged with the first mating component. The second mating component moves to the release position relative to the first mating component with movement of the trim panel during deployment of the air bag to release the second mating component from the first mating component. |
| US08678426B1 |
Vehicle brake cooling system
An inlet, positioned to access the flow of air passing around and under a moving vehicle, draws in air which is conveyed through a duct and discharged to cool a brake on a vehicle. The inlet has a closure so that access of cooling air may be denied when the brake temperature is less than a predetermined temperature and opened only when the brake temperature exceeds that predetermined temperature. The closure is operated by a temperature-operated actuator. In embodiments the actuator may be suitably positioned to sense a temperature representative of the brake temperature and to incorporate a thermally activated phase change, active or smart material preselected to operate the inlet closure when the sensed brake temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature. |
| US08678417B1 |
Universal frame for electric bikes and human powered bicycles
The present invention relates to a universal frame for electric bikes and human powered bicycles, the frame body of the universal frame is consisted of a top tube, a down tube, a seat tube, two seat stays and two chain stays, wherein a holder is welded on the junction of the down tube, the seat tube and the chain stays, the holder is used to fasten on a bottom bracket shell with different specifications according to usage requirements. By the composition of the above elements, the present invention may be provided to assemble the main-shaft-chain wheel set of electric bikes or human powered bicycles, to thereby simplify the process, reduce the amount of inventories and achieve the convenience of universal interchangeability. |
| US08678412B1 |
Low-rider tricycle kit
The present invention features a low-rider tricycle kit for converting a standard bicycle to a low-rider tricycle. The kit contains a low-rider tricycle frame, a low-rider tricycle front fork assembly, a low-rider tricycle handlebar having a first grip and a second grip, a low-rider tricycle seat, and a low-rider tricycle front fender for substituting with a standard bicycle frame. The kit further includes a low-rider tricycle headlight assembly, a low-rider tricycle tail light assembly, a low-rider tricycle mirror, a double-rear-wheel axle assembly, a storage cavity, and a storage cart that attaches to and sets into the storage cavity of the double-rear-wheel axle assembly. |
| US08678410B2 |
Adjustable rate leaf spring suspension
A suspension for a motor vehicle has a sub-frame and first and second control arm movably attached to opposite ends of the sub-frame. A leaf spring extends transversely across the sub-frame, a first end acting on the first control arm and a second end acting on the second control arm. A first spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, and is movable over a first range of positions relative to the leaf spring. A second spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, the second spring seat movable over a second range of positions relative to the leaf spring. An actuator is operatively connected to the first and second spring seats to move the first and second spring seats across their respective ranges of positions, thereby changing a spring rate of the leaf spring. |
| US08678406B1 |
Isolation sleeve
Vehicles and systems are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, for example, a vehicle may include, but is not limited to, an axle, a bearing coupled to the axle, a knuckle coupled to the bearing, and an isolation sleeve coupled between the bearing and the knuckle. In one embodiment, for example, the isolation sleeve may be composed of solid zinc. In another embodiment, for example, the isolation sleeve may include a zinc coating. |
| US08678404B2 |
Stroller chassis, in particular for transporting a child
A stroller chassis includes a frame and a wheel that are connected to each other by a hinge defining a pivoting axis extending perpendicularly to the wheel's axis. The chassis can also include a bearing for guiding the frame and the wheel in free rotation about the axis. The chassis can include two plates, each including an annular body substantially centered with respect to the pivoting axis and arranged externally around the bearing. The two annular bodies are connected rotatably about the pivoting axis to the frame and the wheel and define substantially planar surfaces on the plate surfaces, the planar surfaces being mutually adjoining along a plane that is transverse to the pivoting axis. The plates cooperate with one another through sliding and frictional contact. The Chassis can also include resilient member for pressing the annular bodies against each other to maintain contact between the planar surfaces. |
| US08678400B2 |
Locking chuck
A chuck including a body with a nose section defining an axial bore formed therein, a plurality of jaws movably disposed with respect to the body, and a sleeve rotatably mounted about the body so that rotation of the sleeve moves the jaws relative to the axial bore. A bearing has a first race, a second race, and at least one bearing element disposed therebetween, one of the first race and the second race defining a ratchet and the other defining a pawl biased toward the ratchet. A biasing element is disposed between the pawl and the sleeve. The biasing element exerts a biasing force on the pawl toward the ratchet and the ratchet and the pawl prevent the second race from rotating in the opening direction with respect to the first race when engaged. |
| US08678398B2 |
Isolation gasket, system and method of manufacture
Sealing systems for high pressure applications that provide electrical isolation between joined elements as well as enhanced resistance to leakage of media during a fire. High pressure sealing is accomplished using a metallic core to which an electrically isolating material is bonded on either or both sides. Sealing is achieved through a dielectric sealing element, such as a spring-loaded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) ring. Flanges of the joint may be bolted together with the seal interposed therebetween, and the flanges bolted together. In the event of a fire, heat may be generated that is at a high enough temperature to burn away the isolating material and PTFE ring. Systems of various embodiments provide a metal core backup seal and a compression limiter, which, respectively, prevent the media from leaking from the joint and maintain bolt load at the flanges. |
| US08678393B2 |
Quick release archery target
An archery target includes a clamping assembly having at least two conditions wherein a first condition applies compressing force to a target material and a second condition releases at least a portion of the compressing force from the target material such that arrow removal is easier. The clamping assembly allows the user of the target to readily change the clamping assembly between the two conditions. The clamping assembly may be manual, powered, or a combination of the two. The clamping assembly may include a mechanical lever, a winder, a crank, a hydraulic device, or a pneumatic device. The clamping compressing force may be applied from the top, bottom, or sides of the target material. In some configurations, a strap is disposed around the target material and is tightened and loosened to apply and release the compressing force from the target material. |
| US08678389B1 |
Shuffling machine
A card output device of a shuffling machine, the device comprising a base comprising a first and a second side walls, a roller assembly rotatably mounted between the first and second side walls of the base, the roller assembly comprising a first set of rollers, and a second set of rollers arranged over the first set of rollers, the second set of rollers being moved upwards and downwards between the first and second side walls of the base, and a receiver detachably mounted to the base. |
| US08678386B2 |
Image forming apparatus and power transmission mechanism
Image forming apparatus having sheet transport device transporting sheet through nip between pressing and drive members by applying rotational force to drive member via power transmission mechanism that includes: first and second rotational shafts connected to drive member and drive source, respectively; first and second rotation transmitting members attached to first and second rotational shafts, respectively; holding member including first and second contact parts disposed on opposite sides of second rotation transmitting member; and rotational move member switching to power non-transmission and transmission states by moving holding member rotationally to first and second positions in conjunction with opening and closing operations of opening/closing member of apparatus housing. Power is not transmitted between rotational shafts in power non-transmission state and transmitted in power transmission state. Rotational move member moves holding member causing contact parts to move second rotation transmitting member toward first and second directions, respectively. |
| US08678382B2 |
Sheet conveyance apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a conveyance roller pair, a conveyance roller driving unit, a registration roller pair, a registration driving unit, a separation and press-contact unit configured to set the registration roller pair to a separated state and to a press-contact state, and a control unit. After a sheet has stopped at a stop position immediately before the registration roller pair, the registration roller pair having been set to the separated state is set to the press-contact state. The registration roller pair is rotated backward during formation of a loop in the sheet. |
| US08678381B2 |
Medium transport device, post-processing device, and image forming apparatus with urging member that separates support portion and stack portion
A medium transport device includes a stack portion having a stack surface, a medium being stacked on the stack surface, a guide portion provided at the stack surface, the guide portion extending in a width direction intersecting with a transport direction, the medium being transported in the transport direction, an alignment member supported movably along the guide portion, the alignment member contacting the medium and aligning a position of the medium stacked on the stack surface, and an urging member arranged between the alignment member and the stack portion, the urging member urging the alignment member to the stack surface. |
| US08678377B2 |
Sheet conveying device
A holding member holds a separation pad configured to separate sheets conveyed by a roller one by one, and a roller pressing member. A pressing mechanism is disposed on an opposite side of the separation pad from the roller. The holding member is configured to move relative to the roller between a distant position and a close position in which the holding member is closer to the roller than in the distant position. The pressing mechanism is configured to press the separation pad against the roller when the holding member is in the close position. When the holding member is in the distant position, at least a roller contacting portion of the roller pressing member is retracted from a first surface of the separation pad in a direction away from the roller. The first surface of the separation pad faces the roller. |
| US08678376B2 |
Sheets-separating module and multifunction printer using elastic element with descending section modulus
A sheets-separating module and a multifunction printer using the same are provided. The sheets-separating module includes a body, an elastic element and a plurality of sheets-separating structures, in which the body has an opening, the elastic element is disposed in the opening of the body and has a first end and a second end. The first end of the elastic element connects the body, the second end thereof is a free end, and a section modulus of the elastic element is gradually descending from the second end to the first end. The sheets-separating structures are disposed on the elastic element. |
| US08678374B2 |
Medium feeding device and image forming apparatus
A medium feeding device includes a loading member; a holding member that includes a movable holding-member body having a gas suction opening, and a suction device connected to the gas suction opening, the holding member being configured to attract and hold each of mediums on the loading member while the suction device performs suction; a holding-member-moving mechanism that moves the holding member between a suction position where the medium is attracted to the holding member and a feed position on a downstream side with respect to the suction position; a transport member that transports the medium held by the holding member at the feed position toward the downstream side; and a suction-force-changing mechanism that reduces a suction force after the medium is attracted to the holding member and before a trailing end of the medium attracted to the holding member passes over the gas suction opening. |
| US08678367B2 |
Device for aligning punched sheets
The present invention prevents a succeeding sheet from being caught in holes of preceding punched sheets. |
| US08678365B2 |
Device and method for aligning and holding a plurality of singulated semiconductor components in receiving pockets of a terminal carrier
In a device and a method for aligning and holding a plurality of singulated semi-conductor components in receiving pockets of a terminal carrier that are separated from each other, the terminal carrier has spring elements, which are part of a spring plate. The spring plate has a plurality of recesses disposed next to each other for forming a corresponding plurality of receiving pockets for the semi-conductor components, wherein the spring elements are formed from the spring plate in one piece. |
| US08678363B2 |
Multiple vise system
A multiple vise system comprising at least two vise heads, each vise head comprising two jaws and a tightening screw and also comprising a supporting structure. The supporting structure is configured to support each vise head and allows the position of the vise heads to be adjusted according to at least two degrees of freedom with respect to each other. Position adjustment is achieved by means of track and slots mechanisms, swivels and telescoping poles. A number of secondary clamps are included to hold specially shaped objects such as printed circuit boards and to hold objects too large to be held by a vise head. |
| US08678361B2 |
Rebound stopper of strut assembly for suspension in vehicle
A rebound stopper of a strut assembly for a suspension in a vehicle, may include a steel plate combined with a strut and being fitted over an upper end of the strut which has passed into a car body, a rubber plate fitted around an outer circumferential edge of the steel plate, and a mass damper combined with the rubber plate and functioning as a damper by resiliently moving relative to the rubber plate during a rebounding motion of the strut assembly. |
| US08678357B2 |
Fluid contactor-diffuser tray assembly
A separations tray assembly for use in a fluid-fluid exchange column. The separations tray assembly is of the type where a first fluid, in a continuous phase, is directed across successive trays in a serpentine flow path. A second fluid, in a dispersed phase ascends through apertures in the tray thus inducing interaction and mass transfer with the first fluid. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the separations tray further includes a diffuser skirt, having apertures disposed therein, operatively coupled to a fluid channel. The diffuser skirt is operable to direct the first fluid to cover substantially an entire volumetric cross-flow window between successive separations trays and to induce stirring and mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid to effect efficient mass transfer. |
| US08678354B2 |
Nano-bubble generator and treatments
Bubble generator devices to produce a fluid stream of bubbles are described. Apparatuses that include any of the described bubble generator devices to treat waste and/or frac-water are also described. |
| US08678351B2 |
Lift assist device
A lift assist device for assisting a user in lifting an item includes a base having a center portion and a side portion that is angled relative to said center portion, a support shaft extending upward from the center portion of the base, and a support platform rotatably attached at an upper end of the support shaft and rotatable about an axis that is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the support shaft. The lift assist device is tiltable between a loading position, where the side portion of the base rests on a floor or support surface and the support shaft is in a tilted orientation, and a lifting position, where the center portion of the base rests on the floor or support surface and the support shaft is in a generally vertical orientation. |
| US08678350B2 |
Valve and method for controlling flow in tubular members
Further disclosed herein is a method for controlling fluid flow. The method includes, selectively deforming at least one selectively deformable member disposed between two tubular members that are radially aligned with one another, at least one of the at least one deformable member being positioned between a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The method further includes regulating flow of fluid by deforming the at least one deformable member positioned between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet sufficiently to achieve a desired flow rate. |
| US08678346B2 |
Near-field wireless powered solenoid valve
A solenoid valve assembly including a process control valve plumbed within a hazardous environment; a solenoid coil mated to the valve and configured to operate the valve, the solenoid coil located within the hazardous environment; a valve coil configured to receive power and transfer that power to the solenoid coil, thereby operating the valve, the valve coil located within the hazardous environment; and a controller coil configured to transmit power to the valve coil, the controller coil located in the hazardous environment. |
| US08678345B2 |
Variable orifice gas flow modulating valve
A temperature control system for a gas appliance utilizes an improved variable orifice gas flow modulating valve capable of direct modulation of gas flow through an orifice directly into a gas burner to provide a constantly maintained temperature in an appliance working compartment, as selected by human interface via a temperature selector. An actuator attached to a gas fitting body of the valve provides for linear movement of a metering pin into the taper inside the orifice, accomplishing the variable controlled modulated flow of gas directly into the burner. The actuator is controlled by an input signal from a programmable controller whose output is determined by calculations based on inputs from a temperature selector and a temperature sensor located in the gas appliance working compartment. |
| US08678337B2 |
Device for fastening a fixture to a fastening structure of a vehicle
A device for fastening a fixture to a fastening structure of a vehicle including: a base comprising a first clamping jaw which can be positioned in a clamping direction (Z) over the slot and pressed in the clamping direction (Z) with respect to the fastening structure, a second clamping jaw comprising a clamping portion which can be inserted into the fastening channel, and a shaft which projects from the clamping portion; an actuating unit which is supported on the base such that it can be moved back and forth; and a gear system which couples the actuating unit to the second clamping jaw such that a movement of the actuating unit generates the longitudinal movement of the second clamping jaw. |
| US08678328B2 |
Lantern support device for securing to a variety of objects
A lantern support device includes a number of adapter members for attaching of the adapter members and thereby the lantern support device to a variety of objects including poles, posts and rails. Each of the adapters is capable of a slideable engagement with a main body of the support device via bolts, nuts and washers for adjustment of the adapters along the length of the main body. A base clip in the form of a foot of the main body is fixedly attached to the main body and provides for support a portion of the bottom of a user's lantern. |
| US08678327B1 |
Liner holder for trash receptacle
A trash bag securing device has a rotatable member and a stationary member. The stationary member is attached to the trash receptacle. The rotatable member has a first bag securing means which may include a bag containment area. The stationary member includes a second bag securing means which may include a point. |
| US08678324B2 |
Passive adaptive structures
Embodiments of the present airfoil systems comprise an airfoil with a leading edge, a trailing edge, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a skin surface, at least one structural element located within said airfoil, wherein said structural element supports the skin surface having an upper skin portion and a lower skin portion wherein said structural element can change its shape in response to external stimulus during flight operations, and an actuating means for selectively altering the curvature of said structural element which alters the curvature of said upper skin portion and of said lower skin portion to cause nonlinear deflection of said skin surface between an extreme raised position through a neutral position to an extreme lowered position; whereby the outer surface curvature of said airfoil and said skin surface is smooth and continuous over substantially the entirety thereof at all positions of said skin surface. |
| US08678322B2 |
Multifunctional chambered radiation shields and systems and related methods
Radiation shields include an outer composite wall, an inner composite wall, and an enclosed fuel chamber disposed between the inner and outer composite walls. A fuel may be contained within the enclosed fuel chamber. Spacecraft include one or more such radiation shields, and may further include a fuel cell and a conduit providing fluid communication between the fuel chamber of the radiation shield and the fuel cell. Methods of forming a radiation shield system include forming an enclosed fuel chamber between an outer composite wall and an inner composite wall of a radiation shield, and providing fuel within the enclosed fuel chamber. |
| US08678315B2 |
Strut system for the stabilization of the shell of an aerodynamic aircraft component for a commercial aircraft
The invention relates to a strut system for the stabilization of the shell (2) of an aerodynamic aircraft component in a commercial aircraft, comprising a pair of connection supports (4a, 4b) connected on the inside to the shell (2) and opposing each other, between which connection supports (4a, 4b) several struts (5) extend to form a latticework structure (3), which struts (5) in nodal points (6a, 6b) arranged on the ends are non-detachably connected to the connection supports (4a, 4b), wherein the area extension of the latticework structure (3) is aligned in such a manner relative to a middle plane of symmetry (11) that the struts (5), formed with an open symmetrical cross section, as well as the cross section of the connection supports (4a, 4b), are arranged so as to be symmetrical to the aforesaid. |
| US08678314B2 |
Impact resistant and damage tolerant aircraft fuselage
Aircraft fuselage section (32) subjected to impacts of external bodies, the aircraft fuselage having a curved shape with at least a vertical symmetry plane (A-A) and a central longitudinal axis and comprising a skin (35) and a plurality of frames (37) arranged perpendicularly to said longitudinal axis (33), the aircraft fuselage section also comprising at least an inner reticular structure (51, 53) mounted on a supporting structure (41, 43) comprising longitudinal beams (39) attached to the skin (35) and interconnected with said frames (37), said inner reticular structure (51, 53) being arranged for creating at least one closed cell (75) with the skin (35) for improving its resistance and its damage tolerance to said impacts. Said inner reticular structure (51, 53) can be formed by panels (61), rods (65, 65′), cables (67, 67′) or belts (69, 69′). |
| US08678310B2 |
Ducted ram air generator assembly
A ducted ram air turbine may be used to drive a generator to provide power to an aircraft. The ducted ram air turbine may be used in a pod attached to the aircraft, where the pod is fully powered, cooled and lubricated by devices attached to the ram air turbine. A gearbox may be deployed to control the speed of the turbine for driving various pumps and the like. The speed of the turbine may be controlled by inlet and exit actuators driving inlet and exit doors. |
| US08678308B2 |
Dual-bearing reel drag sound producing device
A reel drag sound producing device is provided for producing sound in conjunction with a drag function of a dual-bearing reel having a reel unit with a main gear. The drag sound producing device includes a rotation member being disposed in the reel unit to be rotated unitarily with the main gear, a pivot shaft being disposed in the reel unit, a hitting member being disposed onto the pivot shaft and to be moved between a silent position and a sound producing position, a drive mechanism being configured to move the hitting member in a first direction between the sound producing position and the silent position in conjunction with rotation of the main gear in a fishing-line winding direction and moved in a radial direction for a predetermined distance, and an urging member being configured to urge the hitting member towards the sound producing position. |
| US08678307B2 |
Heavy-duty drive arrangement and mill driven by the same
A heavy-duty drive arrangement for a mill having a grinding bowl ratable about a vertical axis comprises a housing, an electric motor, and a gearing arrangement disposed in the housing and supported on the housing. The grinding bowl can be driven by means of the electric motor via the gearing arrangement. The electric motor is disposed below the gearing arrangement. The electric motor is integrated in the housing. Advantageously, the electric motor is supported on the housing particularly on a bottom element of the housing. The rotor can be connected directly, or via a coupling integrated in the rotor, to a gear of the gearing arrangement. The mill may be, for example, a roller bowl mill. |
| US08678302B2 |
Injection device
An injection device for injecting a medium, including a valve arrangement with a valve member forming a seal at a valve seat, wherein the valve arrangement is arranged in the medium to be injected, an actuator device with an actuator, a plunger and a return element, and a pulse-transmitting device which is arranged between the valve arrangement and the actuator device, which separates the valve arrangement from the actuator device in a fluid-tight manner and which transmits a pulse generated by the actuator device to the medium to be injected in order in that manner to open the valve arrangement and inject medium. |
| US08678301B2 |
Stepped swirler for dynamic control
A swirling device for injecting a medium into a turbine is provided. The swirling device includes a central axis, a central passage in an axial direction along the central axis and an outer perimeter. The swirling device further includes a first duct and a second duct. The first duct and the second duct are adapted for guiding the medium from a region surrounding the outer perimeter to the central passage. The first duct includes a first depth in the axial direction and the second duct includes a second depth in the axial direction. The first depth and the second depth are different. |
| US08678300B2 |
Automotive diesel exhaust water cooled HC dosing
Dosing structure (30) is provided for supplying diesel fuel to an exhaust passage (12) of a diesel system. The dosing structure includes an electrically operated dosing valve (32) constructed and arranged to receive a supply of diesel fuel and to deliver the fuel to the exhaust passage. A water jacket (34) surrounds at least a portion of the dosing valve so as to provide direct water-cooling of the dosing valve. The dosing valve is preferably an electrically controlled fuel injector. |
| US08678298B2 |
Compensation for spool motion related fuel delivery drift over time in a hydraulically actuated fuel injector
A method and system ensures that a certain amount of fuel is delivered by a fuel injector at each injection cycle over the life of the fuel injector. The injector has an armature that moves between open and close positions. A base time for the armature to move from the open position to the close position is established. A present time for the armature to move from the open position to the close position is compared to the base time. If the present time is greater than the base time by a predetermined amount, then 1) a present injector duration time is set to be greater than an original injector duration time to ensure that the certain amount of fuel is delivered by the fuel injector, or 2) a change in service condition is indicated for the fuel injector. |
| US08678296B2 |
Two-dimensional optical identification device with same gray level
On a two-dimensional optical identification device with same gray level, a plurality of two-dimensional optical identification codes are arranged, each having a plurality of data blocks and an outer positioning block. Each data block has a plurality of defined patterns, and each defined pattern is located in one of virtual areas produced by equally dividing the data block. The outer positioning block has a plurality of first positioning points and a first direction identification point, and is placed at two adjacent boundaries of the plurality of data blocks for defining the positions of the plurality of data blocks. A fixed position data block is selected as a data block coding indication block for indicating the coding of the other data blocks. |
| US08678293B2 |
Flexible public transportation card with display function
A flexible public transportation card with display function is disclosed. The flexible public transportation card with display function comprises a first card body, a second card body and a flexible electronic system. The flexible electronic system is disposed between the first card body and the second card body. The flexible electronic system comprises a flexible display, a display circuit, a communication interface, a power generator and a capacitor. The display circuit is electrically connected to the flexible display. The communication interface receives a wireless signal. The power generator is electrically connected to the display circuit and the communication interface, and generates electricity according to the wireless signal. The capacitor stores the electricity generated by the power generator for providing the display circuit with the stored electricity, such that the flexible display displays a frame. The capacitance of the capacitor ranges between 0.1 and 20 microfarads. |
| US08678291B2 |
Support that includes a detachable element, a method for the detachment of such a detachable element, and method for the manufacture of such a support
A support that includes a detachable element which has one border, of which at least a portion is attached to the support, with the border portions attached to the support all being so attached by weakened attachment seams, where the support also includes at least two lines of weakness that allow the support to be separated into at least two portions connected by a weakened attachment seam to the detachable element, with each of the lines of weakness being such that, when the support is bent along this line of weakness until it breaks, none of the weakened attachment seams breaks totally. Also disclosed is a method for the detachment of such a detachable element as well as a method for the manufacture of such a support. |
| US08678288B2 |
Methods and systems for protecting credit card account information
The invention provides systems and methods for protecting information related to credit card accounts and other kinds of information displayed on personal and identification cards. In some embodiments, the invention further provides a credit card with a card portion displaying a first part of an account number and an electronically readable region. The credit card may also include a sleeve portion that holds the card portion and that may display a second part of an account number. The sleeve portion may have a window through which the first part of the account number is visible, so that the first and second parts of the account number provide a complete valid account number. |
| US08678287B2 |
Two-plane optical code reader for acquisition of multiple views of an object
An optical code reader forms images of an optical code on an object. The reader comprises first and second viewing surfaces generally transverse to one another. The surfaces bound a viewing volume in which the object may be imaged. The reader also comprises a set of one or more imagers positioned on an opposite side of one or more of the first and second viewing surfaces relative to the viewing volume, and oriented and configured to capture images of the object from at least three different views. Each of the views passes through one of said first and second viewing surfaces. At least one of said views passes through the first viewing surface, and at least one of said views passes through the second viewing surface. The reader also comprises at least one mirror, off which is reflected at least one of the views. |
| US08678283B2 |
Two-dimensional array code
The present invention relates to a two-dimensional array code. The two-dimensional array code comprises a plurality of code characters arranged into a two-dimensional array, wherein each of the code characters corresponds to a bit group representing information; and a locating mechanism, for defining size and/or direction of the two-dimensional array arranged by the code characters, wherein each of the code characters belongs to one of a plurality of character groups, characters in each of the character groups have at least a identical or similar feature, and characters belong to a same character group are mapped to a same bit group. According to the present invention, at least one of the plurality of character groups comprises two or more code characters. The present invention greatly reduces the cost for issuing a two-dimensional code, and significantly increases the user convenience. This two-dimensional array code has high compatibility for user mobile terminals. In addition, the entire system apparently improves its safety and stability, and is suitable for the present network application environment. |
| US08678280B2 |
Code reading apparatus, portable terminal, and commodity information processing system
According to one embodiment, a code reading apparatus includes an image pickup section, a detecting section, a size recognizing section, and a reading section. The image pickup section picks up an image. The detecting section detects, from the picked-up image, a two-dimensional code obtained by converting information concerning a transaction of a commodity. The size recognizing section recognizes the size of the detected two-dimensional code. The reading section reads the information from the detected two-dimensional code if the recognized size of the two-dimensional code is different from the size of a two-dimensional code recognized immediately before the recognition of the size of the two-dimensional code in the same transaction processing. |
| US08678279B2 |
Communication device system and card-type device
There is provided a communication device system and a card-type device, in which an attachable and detachable communication device can be attached later only when a control, maintenance or monitor function and an authentication function are required. A communication function, a function to convert an electric signal of a control object device into another communication protocol, and an encryption/decryption function are concentrated on one card, and this card is obtained only when necessary, and the control, maintenance or monitor can be performed remotely. The card is created by an appropriate certificate authority or a manufacture maker of the control object device, and necessary information can be set. |
| US08678274B1 |
Point-of-transaction checkout system for and method of processing targets electro-optically readable by a clerk-operated workstation and by a customer-operated accessory reader
A checkout system for, and a method of, processing target data electro-optically readable by a clerk-operated workstation and a customer-operated accessory reader, include a data capture arrangement at the workstation for capturing target data associated with products to be checked out by the clerk in a transaction, and a data capture assembly at the accessory reader for capturing additional target data related to the transaction. A workstation microprocessor processes the target data during an active mode, and stands by during a standby mode. An accessory microprocessor acquires the additional target data, and sends the acquired additional target data to the workstation microprocessor for processing during the standby mode. |
| US08678273B2 |
Electronic transaction verification system
An electronic transaction verification system for use with transaction tokens such as checks, credit cards, debit cards, and smart cards that gathers and transmits information about the transaction token and biometric data is described herein. The electronic verification system includes a biometric data device for recording and/or transmitting biometric data taken at the transaction location. The electronic system is adapted to accept or deny a transaction based on the comparison result generated by comparing the biometric data and the information obtained from the transaction token at the transaction location with information previously stored in one or more databases. |
| US08678272B1 |
Dimensional translator
A dimensional translator may automatically translate a dimension from an entity to a different dimension of another entity. The dimensional translator may do so by comparing attributes of the input dimension (the dimension to be translated) to attributes of a target data structure. An attribute may include, for example, hierarchy of a data structure, relationships of a data structure, a keyword associated with a data structure, and a data value associated with the data structure. The dimensional translator may automatically determine how a target entity would categorize the item. In particular, a Universal Product Code dimension of an item provided by an entity may be translated into a data structure of a target entity such as a retailer in order to determine how an item identified by the UPC will be categorized by the retailer. |
| US08678268B1 |
Friction stir welding using a sacrificial anvil
Devices and methods for friction stir welding using an anvil with a sacrificial material are disclosed. The method involves the steps of providing an anvil with a sacrificial material on the backside of the workpieces and operating a friction stir welding device to form a weld that joins the workpieces together with the sacrificial material. The anvil comprises a non-sacrificial base portion removably coupled with a sacrificial material. |
| US08678267B2 |
System and method for integrally forming a stiffener with a fiber metal laminate
A unitized assembly comprises a fiber metal laminate having at least one additive layer deposited thereonto such as by friction stir welding. The fiber metal laminate comprises metallic and non-metallic plies and having an innermost metallic ply. The innermost metallic ply and the additive layer are each sized and configured to facilitate the generation of thermal energy sufficient to deposit the first additive layer to the innermost metallic ply during the friction stir welding process. The additive layer is sized and configured to minimize thermal loads in the innermost metallic ply during deposition thereof. The unitized assembly may be formed using a stock member such as a metallic plate from which the innermost metallic ply may be machined. The metallic and non-metallic plies may be laid up over the innermost metallic ply. The substructure elements may be machined from the metallic plate. |
| US08678265B2 |
Strip joining apparatus for pipe mill equipment
Disclosed herein is a strip joining apparatus for pipe mill equipment. The strip joining apparatus cuts a trailing end of a preceding steel strip and a leading end of a following steel strip, and puts the cut surfaces of the two steel strips into contact with each other, and then welds them to each other. Particularly, a cutting blade of a first cutting unit and a cutting blade of a second cutting unit are inclined in the downward direction at predetermined angles relative to each other. Thus, the ends of the two steel strips, which are respectively cut by the cutting blades, define a ‘V’-shape groove. In this state, the cut ends of the two steel strips are put in close contact with each other and are welded to each other, so that the quality of welding of the junction between the thick strips can be enhanced. |
| US08678261B2 |
Position-limiting device and magazine
A position-limiting device forms a portion of a magazine assembly of a powder-actuated fastener-driving gun, and includes a nail-guiding pipe and a clamping unit. The nail-guiding pipe extends through a sleeve of a magazine assembly such that an end of the nail-guiding pipe is disposed outwardly of the sleeve. The nail-guiding pipe includes a tubular body, a nail passage hole formed in the tubular body and in spatial communication with the nail-receiving space in the magazine housing so as to allow one of the nails to be moved from the magazine housing into the nail-guiding pipe therethrough, and two aligned apertures formed respectively in two opposite sides of the tubular body. The clamping unit is disposed on the nail-guiding pipe, and extends through the apertures for clamping the one of the nails disposed within the nail-guiding pipe. |
| US08678260B2 |
Bladeless cleavers having an arcuate exterior surface and related methods for cleaving an optical fiber using an abrasive medium
Methods, cleavers, and packagings for cleaving an optical fiber using an abrasive medium are disclosed. In one embodiment, a bladeless cleaver includes a body having an arcuate exterior surface, which may be provided in one embodiment by an exterior surface of a tool or toolkit, such as, but not limited to, a consumables kit or other packaging. A cleaver structure is disposed on the body such that a space between the arcuate exterior surface of the body and the cleaver structure is configured to receive a portion of the optical fiber to be cleaved. The cleaver structure comprises an abrasive medium carrier that is configured to be actuated to place the abrasive medium in contact with the portion of the optical fiber to create a flaw in the portion of the optical fiber. In another embodiment, the portion of the optical fiber may be positioned directly along the arcuate exterior surface of the body. |
| US08678255B2 |
Personal portable device keeper
A personal portable devices keeper (10) and its method of use are disclosed. The keeper mainly comprises a housing formed by a shell (12) and a base (14), a spool assembly (16) controlled by a spiral spring (18) and a ratchet mechanism consisting of a ratchet plate (32) in the spool, a ratchet bead (20), and a straight slot (50) in the base, a clip (22), and a length of cord (24) with a bob (72) securing a strap loop (90). The shell has a cord port (28) and is rotatable independently from the spool so that the cord remainder is adjustable even after the cord is fully retracted by the spring. The strap loop ties a personal portable device directly through its strap holder or the like. The keeper is fully operable through the cord dragged by the portable device that is normally held and operated by one hand. |
| US08678253B2 |
Ergonomic backpack
A backpack providing ergonomic support for the back and neck of the wearer. The backpack provides continuous, fully ergonomic cushioning support to provide optimal comfort to the wearer. |
| US08678252B2 |
Apparatus and method for donning a glove
The present invention provides a support (200) for a glove (300). The support (200) is configured to releasably retain a glove (300) in a position which enables the glove (300) to be donned by a user and comprises a planar body (202) having at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212) shaped to receive the fingers of a user, an inner glove retaining arrangement (230) provided around the at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212), and an outer glove retaining arrangement (242) provided around both the first glove retaining arrangement (230) and the at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212). The body (202) further includes at least one weakened region (220,222) extending from the at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212), the weakened region (220,222), in use, permitting the body (202) to tear and thereby increase the size of the at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212) as the hand of a user is inserted into the at least one digit aperture (204,206,208,210,212). |
| US08678249B2 |
Valve mounting assembly with slit misalignment prevention feature
A mounting system is provided for mounting a valve for accommodating the flow of fluent a substance from a supply of the fluent substance wherein the valve includes a peripheral attachment portion, an intermediate portion extending from the peripheral attachment portion, and a flexible, resilient head that extends from the intermediate portion and that has (a) a first side, (b) a second side, (c) at least one self-sealing slit through the head, (d) a laterally marginal portion adjacent the intermediate portion, and (e) confronting, openable portions along the slit to define an initially closed orifice. The mounting system includes a retention structure for engaging holding the valve and includes an abutment structure. The abutment structure is adapted to be disposed adjacent the valve intermediate portion so that the abutment structure can be engaged by the valve head first side at the laterally marginal portion of the valve head to limit movement of the laterally margin portion of the valve head in one direction. |
| US08678248B2 |
Metering valve
A metering valve having a contiguous double wall structure including an inner wall defining the metering chamber and an outer wall which defines a crimping and support wall against which the inner rim of the mounting cup of the container can be crimped. The outer wall may be maintained at the same diameter and thickness for use with generally any mounting cup which are approximately an inch in diameter as well as any mounting process and machinery. The inner wall may however be sized differently in order to accommodate different dosages for metering of product. A radial space between the inner and outer wall permits the both the axial elongation of the metering chamber as well as a radial expansion of the inner wall and hence the valve chamber relative to the outer wall due to the space between the inner and outer wall. |
| US08678245B2 |
Dispensing device
What is being proposed is a dispensing device for a preferably cosmetic liquid and a manufacturing method. A first material is pretreated in areas through the application of a coating or embossing foil such that a second material which is injection-molded directly against it does not bond with the first material in the pretreated area but rather can be detached again. |
| US08678244B2 |
Soap dispensing units with anti-drip valve
A soap dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. Certain embodiments of the dispenser include a housing, reservoir, pump, and nozzle. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes a bypass passage, which can facilitate priming of the pump. In certain embodiments, the dispenser is configured to inhibit or avoid the formation of an air bubble that could obstruct the liquid soap from entering the pump. In some embodiments, the pump includes engaging gears, which can include a plurality of teeth with substantially pointed tips. In certain embodiments, the nozzle comprises a one-way valve, such as a duckbill valve. Some embodiments of the one-way valve are shaped or otherwise configured to provide certain biases to the valve, which can, for example, facilitate rapid opening and closing of the valve. |
| US08678238B2 |
Self-contained hand-held yoke-connected device for dispensing a two-part adhesive aerosol
A self-contained, hand-held spray dispensing device includes an internal source of pressurized fluid that exerts a motive force on a pair of liquid ejecting elements to cause each to eject a liquid into a discharge line. The liquids remain separated until each exits its discharge port. A pressurized fluid is directed over the outlet ends of the discharge line beginning before a flow interrupter in the discharge line is opened to permit flow therethrough and ceasing after liquid flow is terminated. The pressurized fluid flow over the outlet of the discharge line aerosolizes liquids emanating from the outlet ends. The liquid ejecting element is connected to a force transmitting yoke. The yoke responds to pressurized fluid from the source to generate the motive force on the ejecting element. |
| US08678236B2 |
Simple serve topping dispenser
A dispenser for dispensing serving portions of topping onto beverages and desserts comprises a first compartment portion and a second compartment portion hingedly connected to the first compartment portion. One of the compartment portions includes a backing surface and a bag holding member operable to releasably attach a product bag to the compartment portion adjacent the backing surface. The other compartment portion includes a squeeze member, for example a cylindrical roller, mounted for travel in upward and downward directions. The squeeze member is arranged to contact the product bag when the second compartment portion is closed relative to the first compartment portion. The dispenser also comprises an actuating lever mechanically connected to the squeeze member, for example by a one-way advancing mechanism, wherein the actuating lever is operable by a user to advance the squeeze member in the downward direction to dispense product. The dispenser facilitates cleaning and product replacement. |
| US08678235B2 |
Multi-action toy water gun and variable-fluid discharge devices useful therein
A multi-action toy water gun includes a housing including a barrel having a discharge chamber and a nozzle through which water is to be discharged; a handle grippable by one hand of a user for carrying the water gun and for aiming the barrel; a water reservoir; a manually-driven pump having a handpiece grippable by the other hand and reciprocatable along an axis parallel to that of the barrel; and a water discharge control presettable by the user to produce a large quantity discharge of water for drenching purposes, a rapid sequence of small-quantity discharges, simulating rapid shots of an automatic gun or a single small-quantity discharge simulating a single shot of a gun. |
| US08678230B2 |
Vessels with air-tight lid systems
An exemplary embodiment of a vessel-lid combination includes a glass, ceramic or metal vessel having an open top surrounded by a peripheral edge, a lid fabricated of a plastic material, and a seal structure integrated with the lid to form a unitary structure. The lid is configured to attach to the open top by means of a latch or set of latches integrated with the lid, and the seal structure is configured to provide an air-tight seal between the lid and the peripheral edge of the vessel when the lid is attached to the vessel. In one exemplary embodiment, the vessel is a container fabricated of a glass suitable for baking or oven heating applications. |
| US08678229B1 |
Protective sleeve system for vials
A protective sleeve system featuring a housing having an inner cavity adapted to hold a vial. The top of the housing is at an angle with respect to the side wall forming a crater. An aperture is disposed at the narrowest part of the crater providing access to the inner cavity of the housing. Two windows are disposed in the side wall of the housing and positioned opposite each other. A drainage hole is disposed in the bottom surface of the housing and is fluidly connected to the inner cavity of the housing. |
| US08678227B2 |
Leg assembly
A leg assembly for selective attachment to a portable support structure having a base and removable lid. The leg assembly includes a plurality of legs that are selectively attachable to both the base and lid. When attached, the legs extending from the base to the lid thereby supporting the lid. The legs are substantially parallel to one another. The assembly further includes at least one cross member extending between two of the legs to stabilize and prevent lateral movement of the legs. The cross member also abutingly contacts and supports the lid whereby the base and lid function as a support structure. |
| US08678225B2 |
Use of a composite material as a barrier under cryogenic conditions
The present invention relates to use of a composite material as a fluid barrier under cryogenic conditions, the composite material having: (a) a tensile Young's modulus of less than 50 GPa; and (b) a tensile strain at break of at least 5% at ambient conditions. The present invention further relates to a sandwich and a containment system for a cryogenic fluid comprising the composite material. |
| US08678222B2 |
Airtight compact
An airtight compact that contains a volatile product until a time of use. The airtight compact includes a translucent and fragile pot partially encased by a base assembly, which has a rotatable lid assembly pivotably coupled to the base assembly. The rotatable lid assembly comprising a liner over-molded to an inner lid that directly seals to a rim of the fragile pot partially encased by the base. The fragile pot may be formed of a translucent glass, which is protected by the base and the rotatable lid assemblies. |
| US08678216B2 |
Housing unit and a medical imaging device comprising a housing unit
A housing unit for medical imaging devices is proposed. The housing unit has at least two housing shell units and a support frame unit for the purpose of mounting the at least two housing shell units. The at least two housing shell units in each case has at least one overlapping element. An overlap between the at least two housing shell units can be achieved in a region of the overlapping elements when the at least two housing shell units are in an assembled position on the support frame unit. |
| US08678215B2 |
Container having improved pouring characteristics
A container for containing a flowable substance includes a container body, a substantially elliptical opening in the container body, and a resealable closure affixed over the opening. The container body defines an internal cavity that is adapted to contain the flowable substance therein. The opening is adapted to allow the flowable substance to flow therethrough. The resealable closure is adjustable between an open position, where the flowable substance can flow through the opening, and a closed position, where the closure obstructs the opening to prevent the flowable substance from flowing through the opening. When the closure is in the open position and the container is substantially filled with the flowable substance, the flowable substance can flow through the opening without interrupting airflow through the opening when the container is tilted over a range of tilt angles of approximately 35 degrees. |
| US08678214B2 |
Bottle holder formed from a single blank
One aspect of the invention provides a cardboard bottle holder able to be supplied flat and easily configured into a secure shape able to hold a variety of different bottles and cans. The bottle holder comprises a single piece of cardboard shaped to form a generally rectangular body part having: a first slot in a first side adjacent a first end, to define a tab extending along part of the first end; and a second slot in a second side opposite the first side, adjacent a second end opposite the first end, to define a tab extending along part of the second end in the opposite direction to the first tab. The lengths of the first and second slots are designed so that they can be engaged with each other to hold the generally rectangular part in a generally cylindrical form with the ends brought together to overlap each other. |
| US08678213B2 |
Container in which the base is provided with a double-seated flexible arch
Container of plastic material, comprising a body and a bottom extending from a lower end of the container, the body having a diameter C at the junction with the bottom, in which container the bottom has: an annular outer seat having a predetermined transverse dimension B such that: 0.95 ≤ B C ≤ 1 a deformable arch that extends into the interior of the annular outer seat and which, in a deployed position, extends to the exterior of the container and defines an annular inner seat having a predetermined transverse dimension A such that: 1.2 ≤ B A ≤ 1.4 |
| US08678212B2 |
Container and container cover for sealing the container opening
A receptacle sealing system includes a container with a rim defined at an upper opening thereof, and an adjustable closure for covering the opening of the container and having a sealed orientation and an unsealed orientation. The adjustable closure includes a rigid lid, and an integral annular seal having an outer annular wall, wherein when the adjustable closure is disposed in the unsealed orientation, the outer annular wall is oriented in the first position to face the top surface of the rigid lid, and, wherein when the adjustable closure is disposed in the sealed orientation, the outer annular wall is oriented in the second position in order to substantially seal onto the upper exterior wall of the container. |
| US08678211B1 |
Pressed double layer lip hydration bottle
A pressed double layer lip hydration bottle is taught that incorporates a single wall stainless steel cylindrical body having an enclosed bottom, an open top, and a reduced diameter neck. The neck includes formed threads which protrude inwardly within the neck, A stainless steel ferrule is tightly fitted onto the outside surface of the neck. A top weld bead joins the bottle neck to the ferrule forming a smooth joint, with the weld bead having a ground smooth and polished surface eliminating all irregularities and sharp edges permitting a liquid to be sipped from the bottle comfortably. A bottom weld bead joins the bottom of the ferrule to the bottle forming a homogenous juncture creating a hermetic seal between the ferrule and the bottle preventing entry of foreign matter and growth of any microorganism's therebetween. |
| US08678210B1 |
Telescoping boom assembly with base section having primary shell and secondary formed shell
A mobile crane includes a boom extension assembly having a base boom section with a primary shell and a secondary formed shell attached thereto, which allows for selective strengthening along the length of the base boom section. Methods involve manufacturing a boom assembly including such a base boom section. |
| US08678209B2 |
Gantry crane having a truss supported runway
Disclosed are systems and methods for providing a user installable gantry crane, wherein the gantry runways, supported by columns, utilize a lightweight truss, having a high weight to strength modulus, that permits assembly of the system without the need for rigging equipment. |
| US08678207B2 |
Coupling member, and assembled rack provided with same
A coupling member includes two members that are fitted to each other to hold a post from either side, each of the two members including a first tapered section that gradually increases in diameter in a downward direction, and a second tapered section that gradually slopes inward in the downward direction, and the first tapered section of one member among the two members and the second tapered section of another member among the two members being disposed within the half area of the coupling member in the diametrical direction when viewed from the front side when the coupling member is fitted to the post. An assembly shelf includes the coupling member. Since the assembly shelf is configured so that one shelf board member is supported within the half area of the coupling member in the diametrical direction when viewed from the front side, the assembly shelf can be easily assembled, and a middle shelf board member can be removed from the assembly shelf. |
| US08678206B2 |
System for storage and transport of weapons
A system for safely storing and/or transporting one or more weapons inside a container. The system includes an upper saddle and a lower saddle configured to be attached to a container having means for saddle attachment such as brackets. The upper saddle has an inset configured to receive any of a plurality of weapon parts including at least a barrel, a magazine well, and a “picatinney” rail, and the lower saddle has a concave surface configured to receive the stock or other weapon part. Preferably, the system includes flexible cords such as lanyards or shock cords for releasably binding a weapon to the saddle system. The saddle system may be configured in multiple ways to allow for storage of a single weapon inside a container, multiple weapons of the same type within a single container, or different types of weapons having different sizes and shapes within a single container. |
| US08678203B2 |
Polynorbornene pervaporation membrane films, preparation and use thereof
Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide forming polynorbornenes useful for forming pervaporation membranes, the membranes themselves and methods of making such membranes. |
| US08678199B2 |
Filter for fluids
The invention relates to a filter for fluids, in particular water, having a filter surface and a rotary spray arm contained in said filter, said arm conducting a flushing medium against the filter surface. To achieve an increase in the throughput capacity of the filter and to improve the flushing of the filter surface, the filter is equipped with a fluid-proof drum motor, which drives at least one spray arm. |
| US08678190B2 |
Catheter tray, packaging system, instruction insert, and associated methods
A tray (100) for accommodating a coiled medical device, such as a catheter assembly (700), includes a first compartment (101), a second compartment (102), and a third compartment (103). The catheter assembly (700) and devices associated with a catheterization procedure, such as syringes (701,702) containing sterile water and lubricating jelly and a specimen container (703) can be disposed within the tray. Printed instructions (1001) can be included with the tray (100). One or more layers of wrap material (2200) can be folded about the tray (100) to enclose the tray (100) and other items, such as an additional layer of wrap material (2701), packaged liquid hand sanitizer (2401), and packaged gloves (2402). When a health care services provider (3101) unfolds the wrap material, the same can be used to create a sterile field beneath a patient (3201). |
| US08678186B2 |
Wire payoff brush and container containing a wire payoff brush
An invention is provided which employs a payoff brush having a ring structure with an inner diameter from which bristles/brush extend. The bristles/brush extend from the inner diameter of the ring structure to contact a wire being paid off from a wire coil so as to ensure smooth payoff of the wire. |
| US08678183B2 |
System and method for dispensing additives to a container
A method and system for liquid dispensing provides an additive to a base liquid in a container. The additive may be enclosed by an additive bladder that is contained in a container cap and supported by a retaining element having an additive dispensing hole. When the cap is screwed down, a convex element in the cap may press the additive bladder and dispense the additive. The cap may then be removed and may be configured to internally retain the retaining element and the emptied additive bladder. In certain instances, the additive bladder may be omitted from the method and system. |
| US08678182B2 |
Container filling device
A device for filling containers including an upper main element, a lower main element and lateral main elements connecting the upper and the lower main element; support elements arranged at one another without a continuous drive device, which support elements are provided with receivers for the containers and are run in an endless manner through the device past operating stations and along the main elements; a drive which runs the support elements in a feed direction at least through the upper main element or the lower main element along the operating stations; and operating elements arranged at the support elements through which a feed force of the drive is introduced into the support elements, wherein the operating elements at the support elements are gear racks in which a drive side feed member with a complementary teething engages in order to introduce the feed force into the support elements. |
| US08678174B2 |
Method and device for buffering products
A method for buffering products, such as bottles, cans and pots, wherein the products are carried upwards on a moving, inclined first conveying surface at a first flow rate. The products on the first conveying surface can accumulate against a guide member at the upper end of the first conveying surface, after which the products are guided from the guide member onto a second conveying surface, on which they are conveyed onwards at a second flow rate. The first conveying surface is disposed at such an angle and is provided with such a surface condition that the dragging force exerted on the products from the first conveying surface is just a little greater than the force of gravity being exerted on the products in the direction along the conveying surface. As a result, the products can be buffered in a simple manner, while the products exert only little pressure on each other. |
| US08678172B2 |
Rotary device for the transport of articles
A rotary device (10), especially a transfer star, for the transport of articles (15) from a first processing device (1) to a second processing device (5). The rotary device (10) includes a plurality of gripping devices (60) for gripping and holding of articles (15) that are preferably electronically controlled. The distance between the articles (15) in the first processing device (1), e.g. in a heating unit, is different from the distance between the articles (15) in the second processing device (5), e.g. a blow molding device. An electronic control device (30) is located on top of the rotary device (10). This control device (30) controls the distance between the articles (15) fed into the second processing device (5). A method is also provided. |
| US08678171B2 |
Passing apparatus of a workpiece associated with an absorbent article
A passing apparatus for a workpiece associated with an absorbent article receives a first sheet-like workpiece at a receiving position, changes a longitudinal direction of the first sheet-like workpiece to a direction that intersects the longitudinal direction at the time the first sheet-like workpiece is received, and discharges the first sheet-like workpiece with the changed longitudinal direction at a discharge position. The passing apparatus includes: a plurality of holding pads each having a plane section to be in contact with and for holding the first sheet-like workpiece, a revolution mechanism for causing the holding pads to revolve about a revolution axis normal to the plane section, and a spin mechanism for causing the holding pad to spin about a spin axis normal to the plane section. On an orbit of the holding pad determined by the revolution mechanism, the receiving position and the discharge position are set. |
| US08678167B1 |
Work transfer device
A work transfer device is capable of moving a carriage in any direction and easily changes processes even with a simple configuration. The work transfer device includes a frame having a slit in a transfer direction, a ribbon body stored in the frame such that an upper portion is guided by the slit, a carriage coupling part connected to an upper end of the ribbon body and protruding from an upper side of the frame, a driving part feeding power to move the ribbon body in the transfer direction, and a tool carriage, which has a support part supporting a work W and has a coupling part coupled to the carriage coupling part, travelling on the frame. |
| US08678166B2 |
Articulated discharge end for conveyor
An articulated discharge end for a conveyor that is positionable adjacent to a moveable receiver includes a frame, having a distal end, configured to bear a discharge end of a conveyor belt at the distal end. The frame has two axes of rotation, whereby the distal end is vertically translatable and laterally rotatable. A guide is disposed near the distal end, and is configured to contact the moveable receiver, whereby motion of the moveable receiver can substantially govern vertical translation and lateral rotation of the distal end. |
| US08678164B2 |
Apparatus for receiving and sorting disks
An apparatus for receiving and sorting disks includes a wheel having at least one well for receiving a disk, a motor coupled to the wheel, a collecting device positioned relative to the wheel, a disk sensor, an ejector, and a controller. The collecting device has at least a first collector and a second collector configured for receiving disks. The disk sensor is configured to detect a value of a parameter of a disk received in the well and generate a parameter value signal. The ejector is coupled to the wheel proximate the well and configured to eject a disk from the well in a plane parallel to a bottom surface of the wheel in response to an eject signal. The controller is operably coupled with the disk sensor and the ejector. |
| US08678158B2 |
Torque transmission arrangement
A torque transmission arrangement including a primary shaft, a friction clutch, a housing in which the primary shaft is rotatably supported by a roller element bearing including an inner ring and an outer ring. An actuator is disposed in the housing between the friction clutch and the roller element bearing for actuating the friction clutch. The actuator comprises a fixed support element, an adjusting element axially offset from the support element and displaceable for engaging the friction clutch, and an actuating mechanism designed for displacing the adjusting element relative to the support element in an axial adjusting direction away from the roller element bearing. The roller element bearing is designed as a tapered roller bearing, and the support element is operationally connected to the tapered roller bearing. |
| US08678144B2 |
Hydraulic caliper brake for a bicycle
An apparatus for a bicycle brake comprises a housing with a first piston bore and a second piston bore, a first piston disposed in the first piston bore, a first piston rod attached to the first piston and extending from the first piston toward the outside of the housing for coupling to a first brake arm, and a second piston disposed in the second piston bore. The first piston moves along a first piston axis, and the second piston moves along a second piston axis. |
| US08678140B2 |
Electromagnet and elevator door coupler
An elevator door assembly (20) includes an electromagnet (30) use as part of a door coupler for coupling elevator car doors (24) to elevator hoistway doors (26). A disclosed example includes an electromagnet core (40) with a gap (50) in one of four sides of the core. The gap (50) directs and concentrates magnetic flux of the electromagnet (30) to concentrate an attractive force for coupling the electromagnet (30) with a vane (32). Disclosed examples includes unique geometric and dimensional relationships to achieve a desired goodness factor. |
| US08678139B2 |
Metal rope, elevator provided with metal rope, and use of lubricant for lubricating the metal rope
The object of the invention is a traction sheave elevator and a rope (3) that contains metal as a load-bearing material, such as the suspension rope of an elevator, which rope comprises at least one or more strands (7) laid from metal wires (9) and which rope (3) is lubricated with a lubricant (8). Another object is the use of the aforementioned lubricant for lubricating the rope (3). The lubricant (8) comprises at least oil and thickener, which thickener in the lubricant (8) comprises at least 10% or more of the mass of the lubricant (8). |
| US08678133B2 |
Sound attenuating laminate materials
Sound absorbing or attenuating laminate flooring materials are provided, which are directed to be used in the production of floor covering, floor panels, furniture panels, cabinets, counter-tops and wall panels. As well, the methods for producing such products are provided. In particular, abrasion resistant panels, with a laminated structure, created by forming an assembly which consists of laminating a heat-activated resin impregnated paper wear layer, a decorative layer with printed graphics or a wood veneer decorative layer, a medium density (MDF) or high-density (HDF) natural fiber-based core and a resin impregnated paper balancing layer. To achieve sound absorbing and/or attenuating properties, any or all paper layers may be pre coated with an additional flexible elastomeric coating, film or material prior to assembly of the panel, or the natural fiber core panel may be coated with a flexible elastomeric coating, film or material prior to assembly with the papers. The flexible elastomeric coating, film or material acts to absorb, reduce, and/or ameliorate the sound transmissions inherent in laminated panels. |
| US08678131B2 |
Acoustic baffle for centrifugal blowers
An acoustic baffle for reducing noise of a centrifugal fan includes a base for mounting with a fan outlet and a projection extending from the length of the base at a back side of the base and curving away from a top surface of the base. The projection continuously tapers along at least one side from an area proximate the base to an apex. The apex aligns with a fan tangency point, and the apex or a trough of the projection aligns with a midpoint of the outlet, when the acoustic baffle is installed in the outlet. The acoustic baffle effects a gradual variation in radial and tangential airflow at the blower outlet, to reduce fan blade passage tone. |
| US08678129B2 |
Method for selectively charging and discharging a steering accumulator
A method for selectively charging and discharging a steering accumulator are provided. One vehicle steering system includes a hydraulic pump configured provide a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid for use in steering the vehicle. The steering system also includes an accumulator configured to hold pressurized hydraulic fluid from the pump for use in steering the vehicle in case of need. The steering system includes a charging circuit configured to selectively allow the hydraulic fluid to flow from the hydraulic pump to the accumulator based on a fluid pressure applied by a first pilot and a second pilot. The steering system includes a charging bypass circuit configured to allow the hydraulic fluid to flow to a steering control unit and to bypass the charging circuit. The hydraulic pump supplies fluid to the charging circuit and the bypass circuit. |
| US08678126B1 |
Motor vehicle
A motor vehicle having a first vehicle seat, a first seat belt, assigned to the first vehicle seat and having an assigned first receptacle, at least one second vehicle seat, a second seat belt, assigned to the second vehicle seat and having an assigned second receptacle, a first receptacle sensor for determining whether the first seat belt is engaged in the first receptacle, a second receptacle sensor for determining whether the second seat belt is engaged in the second receptacle, and a man-machine interface for outputting a start command. In addition, the motor vehicle includes a control unit for generating the start command and for determining the time from the outputting of the start command to the engaging of the first seat belt in the first receptacle and the time from the outputting of the start command to the engaging of the second seat belt in the second receptacle. |
| US08678125B2 |
Speed change controller for saddle-ride type vehicles
A speed change controller is provided on a saddle-ride type vehicle and is suited to manipulation by a foot. The speed change controller for saddle-ride type vehicles comprises a detection mechanism that detects operation by a driver for speed change, and a speed change mechanism that performs speed change on the basis of speed change operation detected by the detection mechanism. The detection mechanism provided by the invention comprises an operation part manipulated by a foot for speed change and including a moving part, which moves relative to the vehicle on the basis of manipulation by a foot, and a detection unit that detects that the moving part moves a predetermined amount or more. |
| US08678121B2 |
Adaptive magnetic coupling system
A system comprising a tractor vehicle, at least one trailer vehicle and a skin between and in contact with the tractor and trailer vehicles. One of the vehicles is disposed in a non-inverted position above the skin and the other is inverted and below the skin. The trailer vehicle comprises one or more magnets, while the tractor vehicle comprises one or more magnets magnetically coupled to each opposing magnet on the trailer vehicle. The vehicles may have mutually opposing permanent magnets in one-to-one relationship. Alternatively, each permanent magnet on the trailer vehicle could be opposed by one or more electro-permanent magnets on the tractor vehicle. The system further comprises means for maintaining the magnetic attraction force within a range as the vehicles move along a portion of the skin having a varying thickness. |
| US08678114B1 |
Power wheelchair with guard for playing sports
A power wheelchair with guard for playing sports for eliminating G-Force effects and improving safety. The power wheelchair with guard for playing sports includes a frame assembly; a mobility system including drive wheels and casters upon which the frame assembly is mounted and also including a motor and a power control module for actuating the drive wheels; a seat assembly being secured to the frame assembly and including a seat support member and a seat; and a guard assembly being attached to the frame assembly and extending forwardly thereof. |
| US08678113B2 |
Steering and ground speed control mechanism of a dual-path hydrostatic drive arrangement
A dual-path hydrostatic drive arrangement for driving ground wheels at the opposite sides of the front of a self-propelled windrower is controlled for effecting steering and ground speed changes by a control mechanism including a gear train defined by a steering input gear and idler gear and steering output gears carried by a gear support member mounted for pivoting about a fixed axis of rotation of the input gear. The output gear is coupled for transmitting movement to first and second pump displacement control rods and steering is effected by turning a steering wheel which is coupled for rotating the input gear so as to impart rotation to the output gear which rotates so as to cause the control rods to move different amounts or in different directions. Speed changes are effected by a speed control device that is coupled for selectively swinging the speed/direction control arm. |
| US08678112B2 |
Slip device for suspending a drill or casing string in a drill floor
Clamping die (15) in a device for engagement with a cylindrical body (4), which clamping die (15) includes a gripping surface (153) that is arranged to be able to extend in parallel with the center axis of the cylindrical body (4), wherein a groove (154) is provided in each of two side surfaces (151) adjacent to the gripping surface (153) and in close proximity to the gripping surface (153), said groove (154) extending substantially in parallel with the gripping surface (153). |
| US08678111B2 |
Hybrid drill bit and design method
A hybrid earth-boring bit comprising a bit body having a central axis, at least one, preferably three fixed blades, depending downwardly from the bit body, each fixed blade having a leading edge, and at least one rolling cutter, preferably three rolling cutters, mounted for rotation on the bit body. A rolling cutter is located between two fixed blades. |
| US08678108B1 |
Torque transmitting elastomeric element in casing drilling drill lock assembly
A casing drilling assembly includes a profile sub having an interior profile shoulder and secured a casing string. A bottom hole assembly is run into and retrievable from the casing string. Stop dogs carried by the bottom hole assembly lands on the profile shoulder and stop downward movement of the bottom hole assembly, positioning an underreamer below the casing string. A mandrel is coupled to the bottom hole assembly. An elastomeric sleeve encircles the mandrel below a setting ring. A running tool releasably couples to the mandrel and moves the setting ring downward relative to the mandrel to a lower position to deform the sleeve into frictional engagement with the casing string and the mandrel to transmit torque and axial load between the bottom hole assembly and the casing string. |
| US08678107B2 |
System and method for drilling hammer communication, formation evaluation and drilling optimization
A system and method are provided for producing controlled vibrations within a borehole. In one example, the system includes an encoder plate having a first surface, an anvil plate having a second surface, a movement mechanism configured to enable translational movement of the encoder plate relative to the anvil plate to allow the first surface to repeatedly impact the second surface to produce a plurality of vibration beats, and a vibration control mechanism configured to selectively control an amplitude of the vibration beats to encode information therein. |
| US08678105B2 |
Plug arrangement in a machine tool, in particular a handheld machine tool
A plug arrangement in a machine tool comprises a primary plug part, which is associated with a drive motor, and a secondary plug part. According to the invention the primary and secondary plug parts are assembled to form a common plug part. |
| US08678104B2 |
Handheld power tool
The invention is based on a handheld power tool, having at least one vibration-cancelling device that has at least one cancellation spring and one cancellation mass. It is proposed that the cancellation mass is constructed of at least one first mass part and at least one second mass part. |
| US08678101B2 |
Fire suppression system with pressure regulation
A fire suppression system includes a container for supplying a fire suppression agent into a compartment to be protected. The container communicates with a flow line leading to the compartment. A control controls the fire suppression system, and a valve on the flow line delivers a variable pressure to the flow line from the container. Further, a system is disclosed and claimed wherein a single gas supply communicates through a manifold to each of a plurality of compartments. In addition, a system is disclosed and claimed wherein a primary gas supply container switches to secondary gas supply containers once a pressure within the primary gas supply container drops below a predetermined amount. |
| US08678100B2 |
Method of deploying nanoenhanced downhole article
A method of deploying a downhole article comprising a shape memory material, the shape memory material comprising a nanoparticle having greater thermal conductivity than an identical shape memory material but without the nanoparticle; the method comprising heating the article while in a compacted state to change the article to a non-compacted state. A method of deploying the downhole article where the article is a packer element is also disclosed. |
| US08678096B2 |
Composite bow centralizer
A method comprising providing a centralizer disposed about a wellbore tubular, wherein the centralizer comprises a first collar, a second collar, a plurality of bow springs coupling the first collar to the second collar, and a plurality of particulates disposed on an outer surface of at least one bow spring, wherein one or more of the first collar, the second collar, and the bow springs comprise a composite material, and placing the wellbore tubular in a wellbore disposed in a subterranean formation. A method comprising providing a centralizer disposed about a wellbore tubular, wherein the wellbore tubular comprises a stop collar, a protrusion, or an upset on either end of the centralizer, and wherein the centralizer comprises three or more collars, a plurality of bow springs comprising a plurality of portions of bow springs, wherein each portion of bow springs couples two adjacent collars, and wherein one or more of the collars and the bow springs comprise a composite material, and placing the wellbore tubular in a wellbore disposed in a subterranean formation. |
| US08678093B2 |
Insertion of a pack-off into a wellhead
Apparatus for the insertion of a pack-off into a recess in a bore of a wellhead body includes an activating sleeve which has a portion disposed for engagement with the pack-off for the movement of the pack-off into the recess and body portions shaped for location on a datum member within the bore. The activating sleeve includes a plurality of apertures circumferentially spaced about the activating sleeve. A running tool which is adapted to move the activating sleeve into engagement with the pack-off carries spring-loaded dogs each disposed in one of the apertures. Each of a plurality of releasing pins is positioned such that it enters a respective one of the apertures when the activating sleeve has caused the pack-off to be located in the recess. The entry of the pins into the apertures causes depression of the dogs out of the apertures and allows the consequent release of the activating sleeve from the running tool. |
| US08678089B2 |
Cleanup fluids for anhydrous borate compounds and methods for use thereof in subterranean formations
Anhydrous borate compounds can be used in a variety of subterranean treatment operations, where particulates of the anhydrous borate compounds slowly become soluble in an aqueous fluid after facilitating the treatment operation. Cleanup fluids can be used for affecting a more rapid removal of the anhydrous borate compounds from a subterranean formation. Methods for performing a cleanup of anhydrous borate compounds within a subterranean formation can comprise providing a cleanup fluid comprising a polyhydroxylated compound, introducing the cleanup fluid into a subterranean formation having a plurality of anhydrous borate particulates therein, and interacting the polyhydroxylated compound with the anhydrous borate particulates such that the anhydrous borate particulates become soluble in an aqueous fluid. |
| US08678082B2 |
Hydraulic oil well pumping apparatus
A pumping arrangement employs a compensating type hydraulic pump, a directional valving arrangement and a proportioning valving arrangement. When the directional valve is energized, oil is directed to the rod end of the hydraulic cylinder. The rod or piston part of the hydraulic cylinder will then elevate until a first limit switch is actuated which then will de-energize the directional valve and send a current signal to the proportional valve. This current signal to the proportional valve forces it to open to a point at which the cylinder rod would extend at the desired velocity until it reaches a second limit switch. The current signal to the proportional valve is then decreased, creating a choking arrangement that forces the cylinder rod to decelerate. Upon reaching the third limit switch, the signal is removed from the proportional valve so that it closes. |
| US08678080B2 |
Water processing systems and methods
A system comprising a well drilled into an underground formation comprising hydrocarbons; a water supply; a steam production facility, the steam production facility comprising a filter to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in the water supply; an exchange resin to remove at least 80% of a quantity of divalent cations in a filtered water stream that has already passed through the filter; a steam injection facility connected to the well and the steam production facility, adapted to inject the steam into the well. |
| US08678079B2 |
Fixed swirl inducing blast liner
Wear is reduced in abrasive slurry service at an outlet into an annular space defined by the wellbore and around the tool. In a gravel packing application with a crossover, the slurry exits a central passage and goes into an internal annulus in the tool. Turning vanes that make at least one full turn and that have a height at least partially the height of the annular space are there to impart a swirl movement to at least a portion of the slurry stream. The swirling motion has beneficial effects of reducing turbulence which allows a velocity reduction for a comparable output volume. |
| US08678077B2 |
Heat exchanger with manifold strengthening protrusion
A plate type heat exchanger having a plurality of stacked plate pairs made up of first and second plates. Each plate pair has opposed manifold members that form respective inlet and outlet manifolds for the flow of a first fluid through a first set of fluid channels formed by the plate pairs. The manifold members space the plate pairs apart to form a second set of transverse flow channels for the flow of a second fluid. A protrusion member is formed at an end portion of the plates and proximal to each of the manifold members and has a mating surface, such that the protrusion members on the second plate of one plate pair align and abut with the protrusion members on the first plate of an adjacent plate pair thereby reinforcing and strengthening the manifold region of the heat exchanger to prevent deformation of the manifold under pressure. |
| US08678074B1 |
Continuous casting furnace for long ingot casting
A continuous casting furnace is configured for efficiently continuously casting ingots, including titanium alloy ingots. The furnace is configured with an internal cutter for cutting an ingot within the furnace interior chamber. The furnace typically includes a first interior chamber in which a continuous casting mold is disposed and a withdrawal chamber which is separable from the first interior chamber to facilitate withdrawal of finished ingots therefrom while casting continues within the first chamber. |
| US08678072B2 |
Cutting tool and a process for making such a cutting tool
A cutting tool having a monolithic construction includes an injection molded shank, and an extruded fluted portion extending forwardly from the shank, the shank and the fluted portion having a monolithic construction. The process for making the cutting tool includes forming a cutting tool green body by injection molding a shank of the green body and extruding a fluted portion of the green body such that the shank and the fluted portion have a monolithic construction; and then sintering the cutting tool green body. |
| US08678066B2 |
Apparatus and method for preparing a tire for mounting
An apparatus is configured to receive a tire having at least two bead portions, including a first bead portion and a second bead portion. The apparatus includes a plurality of members configured to engage the first bead portion of the tire, at least one expander configured to move the plurality of members outward, and a rotating device configured to rotate the plurality of members about an axis of the tire. |
| US08678065B2 |
Carrier tape feeder
A carrier tape feeder is provided. The carrier tape feeder includes a unit for loading a carrier tape, a picking-up unit where chips are picked up, and a driving unit. The pick-up unit includes a knife portion, a folding-guiding portion, and an inversion-guiding portion. The knife portion separates a cover tape from a base tape in a first adhesive portion. The folding-guiding portion is spaced from one lateral side of the knife portion to induce folding of the cover tape separated by the knife portion in the lengthwise direction in a state in which the cover tape is partially attached to the base tape in a second adhesive portion. The inversion-guiding portion extends in an oblique direction from the knife portion and the folding-guiding portion toward the outside of the carrier tape to induce inversion of the upper and lower surfaces of the cover tape folded in the folding-guiding portion so as to be superimposed on the base tape. The distal end of the lateral side of the folding-guiding portion opposed to the knife portion extends above the second adhesive portion. |
| US08678061B1 |
Apparatus and method of attaching a file fastener to a backboard
A method and apparatus for the attachment of file fastener to a backboard is disclosed. Backboard, usually pressboard is resistant to attachment by hot melt glue. This problem is overcome by providing deflector for increasing the heat retention angled to provide a chimney effect, pressing the fastener at its tangs toward the heating element, and providing an elastic anvil and hammer which distribute force over a longer period of time. |
| US08678056B2 |
Heavy goods vehicle tire
A tire with a radial carcass reinforcement comprising a crown reinforcement formed from at least two working crown layers of inextensible reinforcing elements and from at least one layer of circumferential reinforcing elements positioned radially between two working crown layers, the working crown layers adjacent to the layer of circumferential reinforcing elements being on each side of the equatorial plane and in the axial continuation of the layer of circumferential reinforcing elements coupled over an axial width, in order thereafter to be decoupled. A layer of polymer blend having a thickness greater than 1.5 mm over an axial width greater than 0.1×d is positioned axially between the axially exterior end of the layer of circumferential reinforcing elements and the axially interior end of the coupling zone of the working crown layers. |
| US08678054B2 |
Segmented tire apparatus
A Segmented Tire Apparatus for improving the reliability and performance of irrigation systems. The Segmented Tire Apparatus includes a plurality of arcuate tire segments coupleable end to end to form a circular tire. Each of the arcuate tire segments has a plurality of treads which may be radial, transverse, or semi-transverse. Additionally the apparatus may be filled with a closed cell foam to provide stability and rigidity while inhibiting water from collecting on the inside of the tire. |
| US08678050B2 |
Overflow protection device for an oil tank trailer
An overflow protection system for an oil tank trailer which automatically monitors and controls the level of oil within said trailer. The system comprises a float sensor, a cable assembly, a shutoff valve, a temperature sensor, and a control box. The float sensor comprises an inductive float sensor which monitors the level on the tank gauge of an existing trailer body, which provides electrical signals via the cable assembly. The cable assembly provides electronic connection between the float sensor, valve, temperature sensor, and control box. The shutoff valve is closed when the float sensor is triggered, preventing flow into and out of the tank in order to eliminate overflow spillage. The control box includes a plurality of manual user controls for operating the system as well as information displays including interior temperature and the like. |
| US08678047B2 |
Automated drug preparation apparatus including automated drug reconstitution
An automated medication preparation system for preparing a prescribed dosage of medication in a drug delivery device includes a plurality of stations for receiving, handling and processing the drug delivery device so that the prescribed dosage of medication is delivered to the drug delivery device and a transporting device that receives and holds more than one drug delivery device and moves the drug delivery devices in a controlled manner from one station to another station. The system is configured so that two or more separate drug delivery devices can be acted upon at the same time. |
| US08678045B1 |
Method of fueling an oil lamp
Garden torches, hurricane lanterns and other oil lamps can be refueled through a flexible hose terminating in a tube or hollow needle insertable into the lamp's fuel reservoir through a wick slot. This method avoids skin contact with fuel and with soot deposited on the oil lamp reservoir. |
| US08678044B2 |
Cotton towel with structural polyester reinforcement
A mostly cotton yarn terry cloth product is provided with borders having high content polyester yarns. The polyester borders are more rugged, and thus aid in preventing fraying and failure along the edges. In addition, reinforcing ribs, also formed from yarns have a high polyester content, may be provided that extend from a border on one side of the terry cloth product to a border on the other side. This feature anchors the borders in place, limiting failure at the juncture of the border and the adjacent cotton. |
| US08678041B2 |
Fiber reinforced spoolable pipe
A spoolable pipe is disclosed, the spoolable pipe having an internal pressure barrier formed about a longitudinal axis, and a reinforcing layer(s) enclosing the internal pressure barrier. In one embodiment, the reinforcing layer(s) can include fibers having at least a partial helical orientation about approximately thirty and about approximately seventy degrees relative to the longitudinal axis, and, the wall can include at least one external layer enclosing the reinforcing layer(s) and having a permeability at least ten times greater than the permeability of the internal pressure barrier. The reinforcing layer(s) can further include a coating. The pipe can also include an energy conductor(s) integrated with and/or located between the internal pressure barrier and/or the reinforcing layer(s). |
| US08678037B2 |
Device and method for repairing pipe
A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. |
| US08678036B2 |
Sealing hose
A sealing tube for the internal lining of fluid lines, in particular waste water lines, includes at least one tubular fabric ply, which is impregnated or saturated with a synthetic resin having a preferably gel-like or concentrated consistency. The weft bands or threads, which run in the circumferential direction, are formed by glass fibers or threads, in particular only by glass fibers or threads. The warp bands or threads, which run in the longitudinal direction of the sealing tube, are formed by, if necessary elastically stretchable, glass threads and/or rubber threads and/or plastics threads. |
| US08678033B2 |
Proportional valve employing simultaneous and hybrid actuation
Disclosed is an exemplary valve having a first valve member that may include at least one orifice, and which is moveable between a first position and a second position, and a second valve member that includes at least one orifice, and which is moveable relative to the first valve member between a first position, in which the at least one orifice of the second valve member is fluidly disconnected from the at least one orifice of the first valve member, and a second position, in which the at least one orifice of the second valve member is fluidly connected to the at least one orifice of the first valve member. The exemplary valve may also include first and second actuators for moving the first and second valve members between their respective first and second positions. |
| US08678032B2 |
Fluid storage and pumping assembly for fire prevention and protection
A method and apparatus for fluid storage and pumping comprising a fluid storage tank incorporating a housing cavity. |
| US08678025B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling fluid pressure
A method and apparatus to control pressure in a fluid delivery system utilizes a variable-pressure regulating means and a flow-controlled selecting means to provide a higher pressure when the flow in the system is higher, and to provide a lower pressure when the flow in the system is lower. It exploits an inherent signal that is generated and transmitted by the fluid, and which enables remote control of the pressure. Useful, for example, to provide pressure control for a garden hose fitted with a closeable nozzle, wherein full pressure is provided through the hose when the nozzle is open, lower pressure is maintained when the nozzle is closed, and the operator controls pressure in the hose from the fluid delivery end of the hose, protecting the hose from bulging or splitting, making the hose easier to handle, and conserving water. Other applications include protecting washing machine supply hoses from bursting and flooding; and pressure control of fire sprinkler, compressed gas, and pneumatic control systems. |
| US08678022B2 |
Positionable outlet for a water monitor
A water monitor includes a stationary portion having a fluid inlet. A movable portion having a fluid outlet is coupled to the stationary portion. A fluid flow path extends between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and is configured to communicate fluids from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. A power transmission is coupled to the movable portion such that the fluid flow path bypasses the power transmission. The movable portion is rotatable with respect to the stationary portion to position the fluid outlet. |
| US08678020B2 |
Grip for a sports pole
A grip handle adapted to be fixed to the end of a pole for use in an outdoor activity, such as skiing or hiking, including a body and a support member affixed to the body and projecting from a transverse wall of the body, the support member being arranged to support the thumb of a user holding the handle. The support member includes a structure to selectively modify and lock its position with respect to the body. |
| US08678017B2 |
Hairstyling and style holding accessory
A hairstyling accessory has an elastic band and a comb with bridge extending laterally across the comb. A plurality of tines protrudes longitudinally from one edge of the bridge generally parallel to and spaced apart from one another. A connector has an opening on the bridge and a tongue coinciding with the opening. A portion of the elastic band is received in the opening and around the tongue and the majority of the elastic band extends from the comb. |
| US08678012B2 |
Tobacco solution atomizing device for electronic cigarette
A tobacco solution atomizing device for electronic cigarette is disclosed the device comprises an atomizer installed in a fixing sleeve; a suction nozzle component and electrode connectors coupled on respective ends of the fixing sleeve, wherein the electrode connectors comprises a positive electrode connector and a negative electrode connector; the atomizer comprising a glass fiber tube, a glass fiber yarn, a heating coil, a cotton cloth layer and a synthetic fiber layer, wherein the glass fiber yarn is insert into the heating coil which is then located inside the glass fiber tube; the ends of the glass fiber silk and two wires which are used to electronically connect the heating coil to the positive and negative electrode connectors extends outward through the glass fiber tube; the cotton cloth layer enwraps the outside wall of the glass fiber tube and reveal ends of the glass fiber yarn are pressed tightly between the cotton cloth layer and the glass fiber tube; a synthetic fiber layer is filled within the annular shape space between the cotton cloth layer and the fixing sleeve for holding the tobacco solution. |
| US08678009B2 |
Sterile cover system for sterilely covering a medical technical robot arm and method for sterilely covering a medical technical robot arm
The sterile cover system for sterilely covering a medical technical robot arm with a connecting element, having a receiving bore with an inner wall, for endoscopic devices, is provided with a sack-shaped drape for enclosing the connecting element. The drape comprises a film tube which is adapted to the receiving bore for covering the inner wall, and a guiding element which is removably attached to a first end of the film tube, adapted to the receiving bore and extends into the film tube in an initial state of the sterile cover system. The film tube can be inserted into and guided through the receiving bore by means of the guiding element such that a surface of the film tube, facing inward in an initial state of the sterile cover system, faces the inner wall of the receiving bore in a state in which the film tube is guided through the receiving bore. |
| US08678008B2 |
Methods and devices for forming an auxiliary airway for treating obstructive sleep apnea
An auxiliary airway for treating obstructive sleep apnea is formed by implanting an elongated conduit beneath a pharyngeal wall of a pharynx. The elongated conduit has a proximal end in communication with a first region of the pharynx, a distal end in communication with a second region of the pharynx, and a section extending beneath the pharyngeal wall for bypassing an oropharynx region of the pharynx. The system includes a first opening in the pharyngeal wall in communication with a first opening in the elongated conduit, and a second opening in the pharyngeal wall in communication with a second opening in the elongated conduit. The system has a first anastomotic connector for coupling the first opening in the pharyngeal wall with the first opening in the conduit, and a second anastomotic connector for coupling the second opening in the pharyngeal wall with the second opening in the conduit. |
| US08678005B2 |
Adjustable tracheostomy valve
A valve, usable in connection with a tracheostomy tube, permits phonation by selectively blocking passage of air therethrough. The valve includes a main body portion with first and second internal passages. A first aperture extends radially through a peripheral wall, connecting the first internal passage to an environment external to the main body. A second aperture extends radially through the peripheral wall, connecting the second internal passage to the environment. A trach body portion defines a third internal passage and is connected to the main body portion. A flapper valve is sandwiched between the main body portion and the trach body portion. First and second adjustment rings permit adjustment of opening defined by the first and second apertures, thereby permitting control over the air passing through the first and second apertures. |
| US08678003B2 |
Vent system for CPAP patient interface used in treatment of sleep disordered breathing
A vent assembly for use with a mask assembly includes a first vent, a second vent and a selector to switch the flow of exhaled gas from a patient between the first and second vents. |
| US08678002B2 |
Devices and methods for decreasing human pathogen transmission
A facial mask for use in decreasing the transmission of one or more than one human pathogen to and from a human wearer of the facial mask, the facial mask comprising a facepiece; where the facepiece comprises three or more than three layers; where one or more than one of the three or more than three layers comprises a fabric comprising one or more than one binding substance comprising one or more than one human pathogen binding group for chemically attaching the human pathogen to the binding substance; where the fabric further comprises one or more than one type of multivalent metallic ion or metallic salt; and where one or more than one of the three or more than three layers comprises a heat-moldable fabric. |
| US08678001B2 |
Wearable rebreathing apparatus
A rebreathing apparatus has a clothing article wearable on a person. The clothing article defines a channel configured to be fluidly connected to at least one tube. The tube is configured to be fluidly connected to a mouthpiece. When the person exhales, the exhaled breath enters one end of the channel and passes through the channel while being scrubbed of CO2. When the user inhales, the scrubbed air is drawn from the channel. |
| US08677999B2 |
Methods and devices for providing mechanical ventilation with an open airway interface
Methods, systems and devices are described for providing mechanical ventilation support of a patient using an open airway patient interface. The system includes gas delivery circuit and patient interface configurations to optimize performance and efficiency of the ventilation system. A ventilation system may include a ventilator for supplying ventilation gas. A patient interface may include distal end in communication with a patient airway, a proximal end in communication with ambient air, and an airflow channel between the distal end and the proximal end. A gas delivery circuit may be adapted to attach to the patient interface without occluding the patient interface to allow ambient air to flow from outside the patient interface to the patient airway. The ventilation gas may entrain air from ambient and from the patient airway. |
| US08677994B2 |
Multipart medical engineering system
A multipart medical engineering system, which comprises at least two components that can be connected via positioning-determining connection feature (410, 411). At least one component (44) is intended to remain in the vicinity of the patient in the connected and unconnected states of the system and at least one component (41) can be removed or replaced with other components in the unconnected state. The component (44) intended to remain in the vicinity of the patient contains a data storage element (45) that can be written to and read via an interface (46) that is mechanically integrated in the position-determining connection means (410, 411). |
| US08677985B2 |
Battery powered concrete saw
A battery operated concrete saw system (10) includes an alternating current electric saw (12) and a lithium based battery pack (58) including a plurality of batteries (60) connected in series to power the saw through an inverter (70) that changes the direct current from the battery pack to alternating current that powers the saw. |
| US08677983B2 |
Trench clay target trap machine
A clay target trap machine including a clay target throwing machine (1) and associated target hopper or magazine (2) mounted on a base, the base being mounted on a carriage (8) movable automatically on rails (12) and able to throw clay targets from more than one position and at a number of different firing angles and heights. |
| US08677975B2 |
Method for detection of abnormal combustion for internal combustion engines
A method for detection of abnormal combustion for internal combustion engines is disclosed. A physical model is chosen that describes, as a function of the angle α of rotation of the engine crankshaft, the development of pressure in the cylinder during combustion without any pre-ignition phenomenon. The cylinder pressure Pe(α) is estimated using this model and the intake pressure is measured. The beginning of abnormal combustion is detected by comparing a first value of a variable calculated using the measurement of the cylinder pressure, to a second value of the variable calculated using the estimation of the cylinder pressure. The amplitude of the pre-ignition is determined by repeating these steps for a defined number of crankshaft angles. Then the progress of the abnormal combustion detected in the combustion chamber is controlled as a function of the amplitude of the pre-ignition phenomenon. |
| US08677969B2 |
Mass balancing device for an internal combustion engine
A mass balancing device for balancing free inertial forces and/or free moments of inertia of a reciprocating internal combustion engine (1). The mass balancing device includes two balancer shafts (3, 4) rotating at the same rotational speed in opposite directions of rotation, and a transmission (5) arranged between the crankshaft (2) of the internal combustion engine and the balancer shafts. The transmission drives the balancer shafts at a transmission ratio of crankshaft rotational speed to the balancer shaft rotational speed that is non-uniform over the crankshaft angle such that the angular speed of the balancer shafts is at the maximum at the piston dead centers. The mass balancing device is intended to be configured for an internal combustion engine of multi-cylinder design and the mean value of the transmission ratio is intended to be 1:2. |
| US08677968B2 |
Encapsulated balance shaft and method
A shaft assembly includes a shaft, a spacer and a cover. The body of the shaft includes a sealing portion, a balancing portion and a hollow portion which may collectively define a generally cylindrical space. The spacer substantially encloses the hollow portion of the body. The cover encapsulates the shaft body and the spacer to provide a substantially continuous cylindrical surface in sealing engagement with the sealing portion. The shaft assembly may be rotatably installed in an engine such that the balancing portion may be partially submerged in an oil bath in the engine and such that the substantially continuous cylindrical surface of the cover minimizes turbulence and aeration of the oil bath when the shaft assembly is rotated. The shaft may be configured for rotation in synchrony with a crankshaft. A method for encapsulating the shaft includes forming a continuous cylindrical surface in sealing engagement with the shaft body. |
| US08677967B2 |
Intake manifold having negative pressure relief
Disclosed is an intake manifold having a surge tank connected to an air intake passage for air to be supplied to an internal combustion engine. The intake manifold includes a gas introduction section communicated to the air intake passage or the surge tank for introducing gas containing fuel component to the surge tank and a negative pressure feed passage communicated to a portion of the air intake passage or the surge tank which portion is upstream of the gas introduction section in the movement direction of the air and configured to feed a negative pressure inside the surge tank to the outside. The negative pressure feed passage is connected to the air intake passage or the surge tank via an expansion chamber having a larger cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of the negative pressure feed passage. |
| US08677964B2 |
Variable valve lift apparatus
A variable valve lift apparatus includes a cam, a swing arm of which one end thereof a valve is connected to and the swing arm contacting the cam, a support portion selectively supporting the other end of the swing arm, a hydraulic lash adjuster of which an oil supply hole and an oil exhaust hole thereto, and selectively supporting the swing arm according to oil supplying thereto or oil exhausting therefrom, a check valve selectively opening the oil exhaust hole and a control portion controlling the check valve for the check valve to selectively open the oil exhaust hole. |
| US08677963B2 |
Electrical camshaft phaser with energy recovery
An electrical camshaft phaser arrangement for controllably varying the phase relationship between a crankshaft and a camshaft in an internal combustion engine includes an adjusting gear drive unit formed as a three shafts transmission having a drive shaft connected with the crankshaft, an output shaft connected with the camshaft, and an adjusting shaft connected with the control shaft of an electrical machine. The electrical machine allows phasing the camshaft with regards to the crankshaft by increasing or decreasing control shaft speed, the control shaft being spinning during phase holding modes. The adjusting gear drive unit is configured such that an energy recovering mode is provided wherein a braking torque is applied to the control shaft in order to generate electrical energy. |
| US08677962B2 |
Cam phaser locking systems
A motion limiter system for a cam phaser includes a retractable motion limiter pin that is selectively extendable from a rotor in a cam phaser to contact a lobe on a stator to provide a positive stop for the rotor prior to engagement of a locking pin. Alternatively, the cam phaser may include two pins that are selectively extendable from opposite openings in a hole in the rotor to engage seats that are slightly offset from one another. |
| US08677960B2 |
Camshaft adjuster, in particular with camshaft
A valve train comprises a double camshaft with an inner camshaft and an outer camshaft. The two camshafts are preferably designed coaxially. By means of a rotatory change in position of the inner camshaft to the outer camshaft, the angular position of at least one cam of the inner camshaft is adjusted or set relative to a cam of the outer camshaft. The cams are divided into sets that can occupy variable cam positions relative to one another. Various configurations of a camshaft adjuster are provided for this purpose. |
| US08677953B2 |
Split-cycle air-hybrid engine with air expander and firing mode
A split-cycle air hybrid engine includes a rotatable crankshaft. A compression piston is slidably received within a compression cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft. An expansion piston is slidably received within an expansion cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft. A crossover passage interconnects the compression and expansion cylinders. The crossover passage includes a crossover compression (XovrC) valve and a crossover expansion (XovrE) valve defining a pressure chamber therebetween. An air reservoir is operatively connected to the crossover passage. An air reservoir valve selectively controls air flow into and out of the air reservoir. In an Air Expander and Firing (AEF) mode of the engine, the engine has a residual expansion ratio at XovrE valve closing of 15.7 to 1 or greater, and more preferably in the range of 15.7 to 1 and 40.8 to 1. |
| US08677951B2 |
Opposed piston engine
An opposed piston engine has an outer piston and an inner piston, which are disposed in a cylinder and are driven in opposite directions and delimit a common combustion chamber. The inner piston drives a crankshaft via a connecting rod and the outer piston drives the crankshaft via a pair of traction connecting rods. The outer piston is supported by a connecting rod that is guided linearly in a guide block, and the connecting rod protrudes from a bridge that is connected at both end portions to a traction connecting rod. Accordingly, it is provided that each traction connecting rod contains a U-shaped curved piece of tube, preferably with parallel legs, which with its U-shaped curved portion encloses a part of the circumference of the pivot bearing supported by the bridge and is fixed, especially bolted, with its leg ends onto a traction connecting rod bearing mounted on the crankshaft. |
| US08677950B2 |
Combustion chamber promoting tumble flow
A combustion chamber in an opposed-piston, internal-combustion engine is disclosed in which the pistons tops are designed so that when they approach each other, they induce a tumble flow in one or two hemispherical spaces defined in the piston tops. The combustion chamber further includes injectors side mounted in the cylinder wall. In one embodiment, the tumble flows in the two hemispheres are in the same direction and in another embodiment, in opposite directions. In yet another embodiment, there is only one injector and one hemisphere in which a tumble flow is induced. |
| US08677948B2 |
Variable speed high efficiency cooling system
The present invention includes an engine mechanically coupled to a generator to provide mechanical power thereto and a housing assembly defining an interior space to at least partially enclose the engine and the generator. The housing has a first airflow path structured to provide cooling into the radiator and a second airflow path structured to provide cooling to at least one of the engine and the generator. A temperature sensor can be disposed within the housing and a variable speed fan can be in flow communication with at least one of the first airflow path and the second airflow path. Further, a controller may be in communication with the variable speed fan and the temperature sensor. |
| US08677945B2 |
Boiler
A boiler has an upper header, a lower header and a heat-transfer tube. The heat-transfer tube connects the upper header with the lower header. The hear-transfer tube is provided with projections such that a heat-transfer area per unit length of the heat-transfer tube is smaller in an upstream region than that in a downstream region of combustion gas. |
| US08677943B2 |
Animal chew formed of interwoven strips of edible resin
A woven chew toy for animals is provided including one or more of edible resins, such as rawhide, meat jerky, starch and combinations thereof in strip form interwoven together to provide a planar article. |
| US08677942B2 |
Aquaponics system
The present invention relates to an aquaponics system and method. There is provided an aquaponics system including a tank (10) for housing at least one aquatic animal species; a plant growing apparatus (18) for housing one or more plant species growing in an aqueous environment; and a biofilter module including a solids removal means (12) and a biological waste digestion unit (14) including a biological species for digesting solids to produce plant nutrients. Plant nutrients are transferred to the plant growing apparatus (18) and at least a portion of the water is returned to the tank (10). |
| US08677933B2 |
Film forming apparatus forming a coating film using spiral coating while adjusting sound wave projected onto the coating film
According to one embodiment, a film forming apparatus includes: a stage on which a coating object is placed; a rotation mechanism rotating the stage; an application nozzle supplying a coating material to the coating object; an application moving mechanism moving the application nozzle; a controller which controls the rotation mechanism and application moving mechanism to rotate the stage and move the application nozzle between the rotation center and the outer edge and controls the application nozzle to apply the coating material to the coating object; and a sound wave generator which generates a sound wave. The film forming apparatus projects the sound wave onto the surface of the coating film. |
| US08677926B2 |
Die for flat wire coating and manufacturing method of enameled flat wire
A solid coating die for applying an insulation varnish around a flat wire conductor includes a die body and a die hole formed through the die body, the conductor to be inserted into the die hole. The die hole includes: an entry portion having a cross section monotonically decreasing along a conductor insertion direction; and a coating portion including at least a sub-portion having a constant cross section. The cross section of the coating portion is a rectangle having four straight sides and four rounded corners. Each inner surface of the straight side of the coating portion has an inwardly projecting protrusion, a top contour of each protrusion being a circular arc, an elongated circular arc, an elliptical arc or a combination of these arcs, the maximum curvature of the top contour of each protrusion being larger than the maximum curvature of inner surface of the rounded corners. |
| US08677923B2 |
Sewer cleanout level indicator
A sewer cleanout level indicator for use with a retrofitted conventional sewer cleanout cap. The indicator provides a visual indication of whether a sewer lateral line is blocked on the residential or private side, or the government side. The indicator includes an elongated tubular member which is slidably received by the retrofitted conventional sewer cleanout cap. The tubular member has an upper end having a circular cap attached thereto. The circular cap has a flexibly-compressible annular flange contiguously carried therebelow. A bulbous float is fixedly attached to the lower end of the tubular member. The float is responsive to a change in a level of fluid or waste water present within the cleanout riser of a conventional sewer lateral line. |
| US08677922B2 |
Boat with a latch assembly
A boat including at least two wall segments extending generally upwardly from a deck to define an interior space. The wall segments are spaced from one another to define a passage for allowing passengers to enter and exit the interior space. A gate is secured to one of the wall segments for controlling access to the interior space. A latch assembly including base and sliding members is coupled to an end of one of the wall segments. The sliding member is movable between a latched position for trapping a portion of the gate and an unlatched position for releasing the gate. At least one glide plate of a low-friction material is disposed between the base and sliding members. Additionally, when the sliding member is in the unlatched position, the base member presents a strike surface for receiving contact from the gate to protect the wall segment. |
| US08677921B2 |
Submersible vehicle with swept hull
A submersible vehicle having an outer hull which defines a hull axis and appears substantially annular when viewed along the hull axis, the interior of the annulus defining a duct which is open at both ends so that when the vehicle is submerged in a liquid, the liquid floods the duct. At least part of the outer hull is swept with respect to the hull axis A buoyancy control system may be provided. Various methods of deploying and using the vehicle are described. |
| US08677919B2 |
Shallow water anchor
A shallow water anchor is provided. The shallow water anchor comprises a first anchor extension and a second anchor extension axially received by a housing. The first anchor extension is axially received by the second anchor extension such that the first and second anchor extensions are sequentially deployable from the housing using an actuation arrangement. The actuation arrangement is controlled by a control interface that is operable to detect when the shallow water anchor has reached a fully extended state and fully retracted state. The shallow water anchor further includes a biasing compensator that compensates for fluctuations in the overall depth of water the anchor is deployed in due to waves or other anomalies. |
| US08677913B2 |
Method and device for incinerating combustion material
A method and apparatus for incinerating combustion material in the form of combustible waste during cement production is provided. The method includes introducing combustion material in the form of combustible waste into a combustion chamber and burning the combustion material within a first air flow. In addition, a second air flow in a region of a floor of the combustion chamber is included in such a manner that residues or remaining combustion materials which are located on the floor are moved by the second air flow back into the first air flow. Cement raw meal can also be fed into the combustion chamber. |
| US08677910B2 |
Extendible table
Provided herein are extendible table apparatuses. |
| US08677909B2 |
Vehicle suspension control system and method
Methods and systems are provided for a vehicle having a plurality of axles and a lift mechanism configured to dynamically transfer weight from one axle to another. In one example, the method comprises, responding to an operating condition by adjusting the lift mechanism to provide a determined amount of lift, and in response to vehicle braking, a vehicle stall risk, poor infrastructure conditions, and/or a high vehicle penalty, reducing the determined amount of lift. |
| US08677908B2 |
Hybrid locomotive
A power conversion unit is unitized by accommodating an inverter, converter, and control equipment etc in a box-shaped enclosure having six faces. A storage battery unit is unitized by accommodating a storage battery and storage battery control equipment etc in a box-shaped enclosure having six faces. The driving control equipment of a driver's cab is accommodated in a box-shaped enclosure having six faces. A power generation unit is unitized by accommodating an engine, main generator and radiator etc in a box-shaped enclosure having six faces. The power conversion unit, storage battery unit, driver's cab and power generation unit are mounted on a car body under-frame. |
| US08677906B2 |
Automatic address transportation system
This invention is based on using the railroad system for automatic address transportation of people and cargo. This invention allows usage of existing rail roads, many miles of which are not used or partially used. This invention includes design of vehicle that will be used for automatic address transportation. The invention allows excluding the most complicated part of railroads, switches, and transforms the railroad from an active to a passive system. |
| US08677904B2 |
Tricolor flare projectile
A tricolor signal flare projectile configured for use with a “high-low” projectile launching system such as the U.S. Army's M-433. The projectile includes a body having a cylindrical side wall and an aft closure. The body's forward portion is open, which provides access to a hollow interior. A delay assembly is installed in the aft closure. The delay assembly includes a delay column. A signal igniter is located just forward of the delay column in the hollow interior of the body. The hollow interior also includes separate volumes of red, white, and blue illuminant. An ogive closes over the top of the hollow interior of the body, thereby encapsulating the other components. When the projectile is fired from a launcher the propellant gases burning with the launcher ignite the delay column. The delay column burns while the projectile travels along its trajectory. After the passage of a desired time interval, the delay column ignites the signal igniter. The signal igniter (1) commences the ignition of the three separate volumes of illuminant; and (2) blows the three separate volumes of illuminant clear of the body. |
| US08677902B1 |
Precision water jet disruptor delivery system
A precision coaxial water jet disruption explosive device system that holds a blasting cap precisely to the surface of a cylindrically cut positioned plastic explosive that couples a detonation shock wave into water surrounding a hollow forming cavity. A pressure relief vent enables the water filled system to be assembled without deforming the thin walled hollow jet forming cavity, enabling forming repeatable supersonic jets on centerline axis. This system is positioned with two triangular pivot legs and aligned with two fan light beams or a line sight to define a projected jet route to deliver a water jet that can cut through over 1 inch of steel and disrupt target objects more than 9 feet away. This system is used to disable improvised explosive devices, and other dangerous objects, without detonating the targeted explosives and electronic devices such that the contents are destroyed without explosion sequences occurring. |
| US08677901B2 |
Tapered compressed powder charge for muzzleloader and black powder firearms
A method of manufacturing a premeasured compressed charge in which the compressed charge has a leading end portion with a smaller dimension than both a trailing end portion and a desired caliber of the intended firearm and the trailing end portion has a larger diagonal dimension than the desired caliber of the firearm. The method comprises the steps of providing a mold with cavities, filling the mold cavities with gunpowder, pressing gunpowder to form a compressed charge so that one of a density and a compaction of the gunpowder, adjacent the leading end portion of the compressed charge, is about 0% to about 5% less than the density or the compaction of the gunpowder adjacent the trailing end portion to facilitate a more complete combustion of the compressed charge upon discharge of the firearm, and removing the compressed charge from the cavities. |
| US08677899B2 |
Reversible anti-marking jackets and methods of using
In a printing press having a transfer cylinder for transferring a freshly printed substrate, an anti-marking device is provided. The anti-marking device comprises a flexible jacket having a first surface and a second surface, each surface having projections projecting from the surface. When the flexible jacket is installed over the transfer cylinder with the second surface positioned facing towards the transfer cylinder the first surface is positioned to engage the freshly printed substrate as it is transferred over the transfer cylinder, and when the flexible jacket is installed over the transfer cylinder with the first surface positioned facing towards the transfer cylinder the second surface is positioned to engage the freshly printed substrate as it is transferred over the transfer cylinder. The anti-marking device is removably attached to the transfer cylinder. |
| US08677896B2 |
Square baler with a star wheel sensor
A square baler has a baling chamber with slots in the top of the baling chamber for receiving twines to tie bales, and a star wheel sensor having a housing mounted on the exterior of the baling chamber and a star wheel in the housing and passing through one of the slots to contact the crop material of the bale being formed in the baling chamber. A deflector is mounted on the baling chamber to extend through the same slot as the star wheel sensor. The deflector has a region inclined relative to the slot to deflect the twine away from the star wheel. |
| US08677894B2 |
Device for preparing olive paste for oil extraction
A device and method for processing aggregate material, in particular for preparing olive paste for the extraction of oil. The device includes a housing having an inlet for receiving aggregate material, a driving shaft coinciding with the central longitudinal axis of the housing, a crushing drum mounted on an eccentric segment of the driving shaft, free to rotate thereabout, and a final grinder located downstream from the crushing drum. |
| US08677892B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling microorganisms in food materials by vacuum and resonant ultrasonication
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling microorganisms in food materials, by which bacterial groups that cause deterioration of the quality of food materials such as poultry and pathogenic microorganisms that cause food poisoning can be efficiently controlled. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for controlling microorganisms in food materials, comprising a step of subjecting a food material immersed in a sterilizing solution to repeated treatment with negative pressure and ordinary pressure and/or a step of subjecting the food material immersed in the sterilizing solution to resonant ultrasonication. |
| US08677891B2 |
Charcoal barbecue rotisserie grill cooker
A compact portable charcoal-fired barbecue cooker is convertible for rotisserie cooking or for grill cooking. The cooker has a fire basket or charcoal grate, which can swing or rotate between a lowered, horizontal position, used for grilling, and a raised or upright position, used for rotisserie cooking, by turning a handle positioned outside the cooker body. The rotisserie spit drops into receptacles formed in the left and right side walls of the cooker body, and with the charcoal grate upright, a drip pan can be positioned under the spit. The vents are positioned so the heated air flows over the roast. A reflector or heat shield is positioned between the upright fire basket and the rear wall of the cooker. A locking tab can releasably retain the handle in the upright position. The entire cooker can be picked up using the handle affixed to the lid. |
| US08677890B2 |
Food steaming apparatus
Disclosed is a divider for a food steaming apparatus of the type generally including a tubular body and at least one perforated food support. The divider includes a plurality of dividing walls extending from a central region to a peripheral region and wherein a major part of the area of each wall is provided with multiple perforations passing therethrough. At least one opening extends along the lower edge region of each dividing wall with a generally flat deflector flap that extends at an incline to the deflector wall having an operatively upper edge joined to the top of the opening and an operatively lower edge spaced circumferentially therefrom. In use, rising gases contact the deflector flap and follow the upwards incline thereof thereby acquiring a circumferential component to the direction of movement. The perforations preferably have apertures that impart circumferential movement to gases passing through the perforations. |
| US08677886B2 |
High response hydraulic actuator
A hydraulic actuator for pump control is disclosed. The hydraulic actuator includes two hydraulically isolated chambers for actuation in one direction and two hydraulically isolated chambers for actuation in an opposite direction. Each of the four chambers is connected to a source of high pressure fluid by an electronically controlled pressure reducing valve. |
| US08677882B2 |
Vehicle and structure shield with flexible frame
A protection system includes a net with lines connected at nodes and hard points attached to at least select nodes. A frame supports the net and positions it in a spaced relationship with respect to a vehicle or structure. The frame preferably includes select adjacent tubular members connected via a flexure to prevent damage to the frame when impacted. |
| US08677880B2 |
Combination stackable magazine cores and outer binding skins for changing style and capacity versability of a firearm and further including dual use follower
A combination magazine and outer skin for a firearm including a magazine core adapted to releasably engage a firearm in communication with an action assembly associated with the firearm. Multiple cores are stackable end-to-end to define a continuous interior, with an end cap engaging an open bottom of a lowermost core. A design indicia exhibits an interior recess and is assembled around the stacked cores. A dual use follower is in use with an uppermost located magazine and maintains the assembly bolt in an open position and following the last cartridge being fired until such time as the magazine is removed. In the further variant, with a BHOA installed in place, the follower activates the BHOA and the bolt to remain in the retracted/open position, following magazine removal. |
| US08677873B2 |
Band saw blade with interior teeth
A planar band saw blade having an outer cutting edge with a plurality of saw teeth also includes sets of secondary teeth placed in cutout portions along a centerline of the band saw blade. The secondary tooth sets provide portions within the body of the saw blade that provide additional cutting action that reinforces the primary outer cutting edge of the blade. The band saw blade may include teeth on each parallel edge and the interior tooth sets in each cutout portion alternatively point toward opposite edges. |
| US08677870B2 |
Protective system for machine tools
An emergency braking system for abruptly braking a revolving shaft of a machine tool for protecting a user of the machine tool includes a brake drum which may be engaged with at least one brake shoe in order to brake the shaft. The brake drum and the at least one brake shoe are configured in such a way that the braking engagement between the brake drum and the brake shoe takes place under the influence of a centrifugal force or centrifugal acceleration resulting from the rotation of a shaft. |
| US08677869B2 |
Tailstock device
A control panel 21 has a display screen 22. An operator turns a low-thrust pressing key 28 ON in the menu key group 26 displayed on the display screen 22. In this state, the operator turns an operating dial 32 of a manual pulse generator 31, thereby causing an encoder 34 to generate pulses. When the encoder 34 outputs a pulse signal as a command signal, and a servomotor 17 is driven in accordance with the command signal, the tailstock is advanced. With the distal end of a tailstock center contacting a center hole of the workpiece, the operator turns the operating dial 32, thereby finely adjusting the drive torque of the servomotor. Accordingly, the thrust of the tailstock center is finely adjusted, so that the tailstock center is pressed against the workpiece by a low thrust. |
| US08677868B2 |
Detented adapter interface for screwdriver tool attachment
An attachment is mated to a power screwdriver by use of an adapter that is first fixed onto the screwdriver. The attachment includes an automatic fastener driver that receives a collated strip of fasteners, and drives them into a working surface. The attachment is mated to the adapter; the attachment contains a radial type of mechanical coupling that can be rotated without dismounting the attachment from the power screwdriver. In this manner, the angular orientation between the attachment and the power screwdriver can be changed “on the fly” by the user. This combination allows the user to keep his or her hands at their operating positions throughout this procedure, thereby allowing the user to re-commence using the combination tool quickly after readjusting the operating angle. |
| US08677865B2 |
Hand operated gripping tool
A hand operated gripping tool includes a movable jaw, a fixed jaw, a first cam associated with the movable jaw, a pivotal handle connected with the movable jaw and a second cam associated with the pivotal handle. The first cam is spaced from the fixed jaw by a first variable distance, and the second cam is spaced from the fixed jaw by a second variable distance, with the first distance maintained greater than the second distance. The jaws are cooperable to define a variable size space for receiving a workpiece and the cams are operable to cause the jaws to grip the workpiece positioned in the variable size space. The cams are arranged such that rotational movement of the second cam caused by operation of the pivotal handle causes the movable jaw to pivot on the first cam to grip the workpiece that is positioned in the variable size space. |
| US08677860B2 |
Transmission
A transmission is provided in which gears (31 to 34) of a first gear group provided on a first auxiliary input shaft (13) to which driving force of a main input shaft (12) is transmitted via a first clutch (24) and gears (37 to 39) of a second gear group provided on a second auxiliary input shaft (14) to which the driving force of the main input shaft (12) is transmitted via an idle gear (17 to 19) and a second clutch (25) use in common gears (43 to 46) of a third gear group provided on an output shaft (16), whereby it becomes possible to cut the number of components and reduce the dimensions of the transmission. Further, since the advance/retard relationship between the timing with which the first and second clutches (24, 25) are switched over and the timing with which the synchronizing devices (35, 36, 41, 42) are switched over can be freely chosen when establishing any of the gear positions, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of shift shock due to timing lag, thus enabling gear shifting to be carried out smoothly. |
| US08677859B2 |
Bicycle crank axle assembly
A bicycle crank axle assembly has first and second crank arms that are attached to opposite ends of a crank axle. The ends of the crank axle are non-rotatably disposed in axle mounting openings of the first and second crank arms. A first end of the crank axle has at least one axially extending first spline that protrudes radially outward from an outer peripheral surface of its middle body portion. The at least one axially extending first spline non-rotatably couples the crank axle to the first crank arm and prevents outward axial movement of the first crank arm away from the second crank arm. The second end portion of the crank axle has at least one recess that extend radially inward with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the middle body portion to form at least one axially extending second spline. |
| US08677857B2 |
Handle brake device
A handle brake device comprising: —a housing fixable onto the handlebar of the wheelchair or the wheeled walker, —a brake lever rotatably installed on said housing , —a transmission cable connected to said brake lever through a cable connector, said cable connector defining a connecting point, characterized in that the brake lever comprises a first arc hole and a second arc hole, inside each of which a pivot pin fixedly connected to said housing is slideably engaged in such a manner as to provide dual pivot for the brake lever, respectively a first pivot and a second pivot. |
| US08677848B2 |
Speed reduction device for power seat
A speed reduction device for a power seat adapted to be fixed to a seat frame, the speed reduction device includes a worm gear rotating with a motor output shaft, a helical gear meshed with the worm gear and rotating with a drive shaft driving a movable portion of the power seat, and a casing accommodating the worm gear and the helical gear. The casing includes a casing body rotatably supporting the worm gear, a casing cover tightened to the casing body, annular fitting portions fitted to each other, a first engagement portion formed at an outer circumferential side of the annular fitting portion of one of the casing body and the casing cover, a second engagement portion formed at the other of the casing body and the casing cover and engaging with the first engagement portion, and a tightening means tightening the casing cover to the casing body. |
| US08677843B2 |
Sample acquisition device
A sample acquisition device includes a capillary array configured to draw in a sample and retain the sample by capillary action. The capillary array may be coupled to an elongated member, such as a stem or a hollow tube, which defines a longitudinal axis extending in a first direction. In some embodiments, the capillary array defines a major sample acquisition surface that extends in a second direction different than the first direction. A ratio of the major sample acquisition surface area to maximum volume retained by the capillary array may be selected to minimize physical binding between the capillary array and sample. In some embodiments, the device may include a feedback mechanism to indicate the relative pressure applied to a sample source with the sample acquisition device. In addition, in some embodiments, the sample acquisition device may include a suction source to help draw the sample into the capillary array. |
| US08677840B2 |
Surface sampler for bioterrorism particle detection
Novel rapid, efficient sample collection systems, devices and methods are disclosed which remove and capture particles, and especially potential bioterrorism particles from surfaces into a liquid sample. The devices were developed primarily for obtaining samples of biological contamination from environmental surfaces. Biological particles, as described here, include bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, and other particles of biological origin including nucleic acids, proteins, and toxins. |
| US08677835B2 |
Torque sensor
An excitation AC signal biased by a predetermined DC voltage is applied to a coil to allow a DC voltage component in a coil output signal to contain failure information about disconnection, partial disconnection, or the like of the coil. The DC voltage component contained in the coil output signal is detected, and the detected DC voltage is provided as an offset voltage for a failure diagnosis. Further, to check a peak level of the excitation AC voltage, a DC voltage corresponding to the peak level may be contained in the offset voltage. A differential amplifier circuit for obtaining a difference between a coil detection output AC voltage component and a reference AC voltage component outputs an obtained differential signal offset by the offset voltage. Accordingly, the differential signal containing the offset voltage as the failure information is transmitted to a circuit for torque measurement as a torque detection signal via a single output line. The circuit for torque measurement provides the torque detection data based on the transmitted differential signal and at the same time extracts the offset voltage to use it for the failure diagnosis. |
| US08677828B2 |
Vibration detecting device
Provided is a device capable of easily and accurately detecting a vibration period when, for example, an earthquake occurs. When a quartz-crystal plate bends upon application of a force, capacitance between a movable electrode provided at its tip portion and a fixed electrode provided on a vessel to face the movable electrode changes, so that an oscillation frequency of the quartz-crystal plate changes according to this capacitance. Therefore, when the vessel is vibrated, there appear a first state where the quartz-crystal plate ends to approach the fixed electrode and a second state where the quartz-crystal plate is in an original state or bends to be apart from the fixed electrode. Accordingly, an oscillation frequency corresponding to the first state and corresponding to the second state alternately appear, and therefore, it is possible to find the period (frequency) of the vibration. |
| US08677825B1 |
Identification of lamb wave modes
A method for identifying Lamb wave modes and structural health monitoring may include transmitting a Lamb wave through a structure for monitoring the structural health of the structure. The method may also include measuring an instantaneous thickness of the structure at a predetermined location of the structure during passage of the Lamb wave at the predetermined location. The method may additionally include identifying a mode of the Lamb wave from the instantaneous thickness of the structure. |
| US08677824B2 |
Integrated torsional-microbalance device in MEMS technology and fabrication process thereof
A MEMS microbalance that includes a substrate made of semiconductor material with a cavity, and a resonator, which is suspended above the cavity of the substrate and is formed by a mobile body, by at least one first arm connected between the substrate and the mobile body, which has a first thickness and which enables oscillations of the mobile body with respect to the substrate, by an actuation transducer connected to the mobile body for generating the oscillations at a resonance frequency, and by a detection transducer for detecting a variation of the resonance frequency, wherein the mobile body possesses at least one thin portion having a second thickness smaller than the first thickness of the first arm. |
| US08677822B2 |
Angular velocity detection circuit, angular velocity detection apparatus, and failure determination system
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 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 a temperature characteristic compensation unit that compensates for a variation due to a temperature in an output signal of the direct-current conversion unit. |
| US08677817B2 |
Air dam deployment and retraction system
An air dam deployment and retraction system includes an air dam, a compressor, an air reservoir, a first switch, a second switch, and a third switch. The air dam is configured for moving between a deployed position and a retracted position. The compressor is configured to compress fluid. The air reservoir defines a chamber that is configured to receive a volume of the compressed fluid. The first switch is configured to selectively move between a first inactive position and a first active position. The first inactive position is configured to provide the compressed fluid to the atmosphere. The first active position is configured to provide the compressed fluid from the compressor to one of the chamber of the air reservoir and the air dam. The air dam is configured to move from the retracted position to the deployed position upon receiving the compressed fluid. |
| US08677816B2 |
Wind current indicator
A wind current indicator device is provided for use in assisting in the hunting of wild game animals and includes a thin strand of fiber having a lightweight feather affixed at a first end and a swivel member affixed to opposite second end. The swivel member includes two rotating loops on opposite sides, wherein the first rotating loop is secured to the strand of fiber while the second rotating loop is secured to a second strand of fiber that is adapted for attachment to an object, such as the barrel of a rifle. In operation, wind currents lift and carry the feather, pulling the strand taut, indicating the direction of the wind current. Each of the rotating loops independently pivots and rotates in response to changes in wind current direction, thereby avoiding twisting and entanglement of either strand portion. |
| US08677811B2 |
Air flow rate measuring device
An air flow rate measuring device includes a housing, a sensor assembly, and an urging mechanism. The housing defines an internal flow passage, through which air taken in by the device passes, and the housing includes a contact surface. The sensor assembly includes a sensor chip and a contact surface. The sensor chip is configured to generate an electrical signal through a heat transfer phenomenon. The sensor assembly is inserted and fixed in the housing such that the sensor chip is exposed to the internal flow passage. The contact surface of the sensor assembly is in surface contact with the contact surface of the housing. The urging mechanism is configured to press the contact surface of the sensor assembly on the contact surface of the housing, so that the sensor assembly is fixed to the housing by the urging mechanism. |
| US08677810B2 |
Methods for monitoring wind turbines
Monitoring method of a variable speed wind turbine (11) comprising control means for a pitch regulation tracking a power vs. generator speed curve (21) in function of the wind speed expressed by a transfer function (TF) applied to the wind speed measured by a wind sensor placed in a location where the wind flow is disturbed, that comprises the following steps: a) providing an optimum relationship function (F1) between a wind speed dependant variable (V) such as the blade pitch angle, and a wind turbine performance variable (P) such as the generator speed; b) measuring continuously said variables (V, P) and obtaining a relationship function (F2) between them; c) obtaining continuously a parameter (D) indicative of the differences between said relationship functions (F1, F2); d) generating a warning message when the value of said parameter (D) is greater than a predetermined value. |
| US08677808B2 |
Sample injection system
One embodiment of the invention provides a sample injection system including a vacuum source, a conduit in communication with the vacuum source, a fluid sensor configured to detect the presence of the fluid in the conduit, a sample loop in communication with the conduit; and a sipper in communication with the sample loop. |
| US08677807B2 |
Micro viscometer
Disclosed is a micro viscometer comprising a substrate having a first chamber and a second chamber that are positioned at intervals; a thin film disposed on the substrate to cover the first chamber and the second chamber; an actuating part that disposed on the thin film corresponding to the first chamber; and a sensing part that disposed on the thin film corresponding to the second chamber, wherein at least one main trench is formed in between the first chamber and the second chamber. |
| US08677806B2 |
Device for controlling leaks and method for operating the same
A leak detection system includes a water delivery device having a flow chamber, closing valve member and at least one contact seat for receiving a portion of the closing valve member. A first contact is located on the closing valve member and a second contact is located on the contact seat, where the first and second contacts are coupled to a leak detection circuitry. A water flow detection element is located within the flow chamber, where the leak detection circuitry is configured to be in an inactive mode when the first and second contacts are apart and where the leak detection circuit is set to active when the first and second contacts are in contact with one another, when the closing valve member and contact seat are in a closed arrangement. |
| US08677802B2 |
Sensing modules and methods of using
A sensing module and method for monitoring various physical parameters, and particularly environmental parameters to which a living body may be subjected, for example, impacts and shock wave pulses. The module at least one energy storage device and at least one set of electromechanical sensing elements contained in a housing. The sensing elements are responsive to an external environmental input, and each sensing element defines an open electrical path when not subjected to the input, is operable to define a closed electrical path that produces an output in response to the input if the input exceeds a threshold of the sensing element. The module generates data corresponding to the outputs of the sensing elements and records the data. |
| US08677801B1 |
Detection and mitigation of aerodynamic error sources for micromachined inertial sensors
Error sources related to aerodynamics of an inertial sensor resonator are detected by modulating the distance between the resonator and the underlying substrate and sensing modulated error signals in the accelerometer that are induced by such modulation. Compensating signals may be provided to substantially cancel errors caused by such error sources. |
| US08677792B2 |
Electronic door lock apparatus
Door lock apparatus, comprising in combination an elongated housing having input code selectors on the housing, to enable door locking and/or unlocking via a locking element, a locking handle protruding from the housing, a coupling in the housing having parts that interfit to enable force transmission between the handle and element, and a coupling mechanism responsive to code selection to control coupling of the parts. |
| US08677791B2 |
Locking arrangement comprising a lock cylinder and a matching key
A locking arrangement with a lock cylinder and matching key. The key has a flat key bit with a narrow spine, two broad sides, and coding notches at coding positions on the key bit. The cylinder has a housing, core, tumblers, and a sensing member located in a supplementary core hole. Spacing from the spine of the sensing point is greater than spacing from the spine of the apex of the notch is cut the deepest. The sensing point is near a peripheral edge of a notch cut less such that deepening the notch to a depth of the notch cut the deepest leads to disappearance of the sensing point. For protection against unlocking, the supplementary core hole is located between adjacent core holes and the sensing member has a tip which the sensing point on a broad side of the key situated between adjacent coding positions is sensed. |
| US08677790B2 |
Security enclosure and associated method
A security enclosure that may include at least three supports with each support secured to a surface, at least two panels with each panel installed between adjacent ones of the supports, and a locking device that may selectively permit and prevent removal of the panels. A method of securing equipment in a security enclosure that may include the steps of arranging supports around the equipment being secured, and securing the supports. The method may also include inserting a panel in the supports and inserting another panel in the supports. One panel may prevent removal of the other panel from the supports, and each of the panels may be retained between the adjacent ones of the supports. |
| US08677789B2 |
Plastic suds tub for a washing machine or a washer/dryer
A plastic suds tub for a washing machine includes a cylindrical casing, an end face wall closing off the casing with a hollow-cylindrical, solid bearing mount, a stabilizer on the end face wall of a more solid and higher-quality plastic than the casing, and reinforcement ribs molded into the stabilizer or end face wall. The reinforcement ribs being radially-aligned from the bearing mount and branching along their radial extent. |
| US08677788B2 |
Method of forming a drum type washing machine having a driving unit
The washing machine includes a tub mounted in a cabinet, a drum mounted in the tub, a shaft that transmits a driving force from a motor to the drum, front and rear bearings mounted on an outer circumference of opposite end portions of the shaft, a bearing housing built in a central portion of a rear wall of the tub to support the front bearing, a rotor coupled to the rear end portion of the shaft, a stator fixed to the tub rear wall inward of the rotor, and a connector of the rotor that serration coupled to the outer circumference of the shaft in front of the rear bearing so as to transmit rotating power from the rotor to the shaft. A bearing bracket may be fixed to the rear wall of the tub so as to cover an outside of the rotor and support the rear bearing. |
| US08677783B2 |
Method for low energy separation of a glass ribbon
Disclosed is a method of separating a glass sheet from a moving glass ribbon, wherein the glass ribbon comprises thickened bead portions. The method comprises weakening the bead portions of the ribbon using laser-initiated ablation at the bead portions to overcome the potential for uncontrolled cracking through the bead portion. |
| US08677778B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator in which a right door that a user more frequently opens has a width less than that of a left door and a dispenser and a display unit are mounted at the center of a front surface of the refrigerator, resulting in enhanced usability. In the refrigerator, furthermore, a door handle is hidden and a drawer type storage container is installed below the dispenser and the display unit to enhance usability of the refrigerator. |
| US08677777B2 |
Flow-down-type ice making machine
A flow-down-type ice making machine in which ice cubes reliably separate and drop from the lower end of an ice making plate, an ice guiding member can be placed close to the ice making plate, and the amount of ice storage is increased. An ice making section (10) is made up of a pair of ice making plates (12, 12) placed opposed to each other in a substantially vertical position and of evaporation tube (14) provided meandering between the ice making plates (12, 12). The ice guiding member (32) attached to an ice making water tank (22) is placed right under and close to the ice making section (10). The ice guiding member (32) is formed in a reverse V-shaped cross-section and is placed so that the top of the ice guiding member is located in the middle between the back sides of the ice making plates (12, 12). A slope (32a) tilting from the top of the ice guiding member (32) to one side of the top faces below one ice making plate (12), and a slope (32a) tilting from the top of the ice guiding member (32) to the other side of the top faces below the other ice making plate (12). An outwardly projecting lower end projection (20) is formed on each ice making plate (12), at the lower end of its surface facing each ice making region (12) of the ice making plate (12). Because of the presence of the lower end projection (20), an ice cube (M) running onto the lower end projection (20) is separated from an ice making surface. |
| US08677769B2 |
Mineral recovery system for desalination
The invention relates to a mineral recovery system that processes concentrated brine leftover from a desalination system, wherein the brine is introduced into a crystallization chamber in the form of a spray, and wherein by mixing it with super chilled air from the desalination system, the droplets will flash freeze and form a super chilled slurry mixture, wherein an agitator for mixing the super chilled slurry is provided at or near the bottom of the crystallization chamber. Multiple stilling chambers are preferably provided for further separating the water from the concentrated brine, to produce a heavily concentrated sludge containing mineral solids that can be removed from the brine and recovered for commercial purposes. |
| US08677767B2 |
Thermo-electric heat pump systems
This invention relates to providing energy efficient thermo-electric heat pump systems for iso-thermal transport and storage, of perishable goods, such as vaccines, chemicals, biologicals, and other temperature sensitive goods. Also this invention relates to providing energy efficient iso-thermal transport and storage systems, of perishable goods, which are compact, light weight. This invention further relates to providing on-board energy storage for sustaining, for multiple days, the ability of such iso-thermal transport and storage systems to maintain temperature sensitive goods at a constant-temperature. |
| US08677764B2 |
Aircraft propulsion assembly comprising hot air bleed systems
An aircraft propulsion unit includes a nacelle in which a power plant is arranged. The nacelle includes an inside wall that delimits a pipe with an air intake at the front. The propulsion unit includes a frost treatment system having at least one first pipe equipped with elements for regulating the passing air, for directing the hot air from the power plant to the air intake, and, an exhaust system having at least one second pipe equipped with elements for regulating the passing air, for directing air from the power plant to a delivery zone. The at least one second pipe is connected to the at least one first pipe, and the elements for regulating the air that passes into the at least one first pipe are separate from the elements for regulating the air that passes into the at least one second pipe. |
| US08677763B2 |
Method and apparatus for gas turbine engine temperature management
A turbine engine has a compressor for delivery of compressed air to a combustor. The combustor delivers hot combustion gas through an outlet to a turbine. The turbine includes a nozzle assembly, downstream turbine blades, and shroud assemblies adjacent radially distal ends of turbine rotor blades. The nozzle and shroud assemblies include internal cooling passages for receiving compressed air from the compressor and, cooling air apertures opening through walls of the vanes and shrouds into the hot gas path to release film cooling air. The number of apertures, the aperture area, and the aperture pattern are varied in relation to the circumferential temperature profile of the combustion gas with a higher aperture area and/or higher number of apertures in high temperature regions and a lower aperture area and/or lower number of apertures in low temperature regions. |
| US08677761B2 |
Systems and methods for engine turn down by controlling extraction air flows
Systems and methods for controlling compressor extraction air flows from a compressor of a turbine system during engine turn down are provided. In one embodiment, a method for controlling compressor extraction air flows from a compressor of a turbine system during turn down includes a control unit monitoring one or more operating parameters of a turbine system associated with an exit temperature of a combustor of the turbine system. The method further includes the control unit detecting one or more operating parameters meeting or exceeding a threshold associated with a decrease in the exit temperature of the combustor. In response to detecting one or more operating parameter meeting or exceeding the threshold, a control signal is transmitted to at least one variable orifice located in the turbine system causing at least one variable orifice to alter at least one extraction air flow from the compressor. |
| US08677759B2 |
Ring cooling for a combustion liner and related method
A gas turbine combustor includes a liner having a forward end and an aft end; a flow sleeve surrounding the liner, the flow sleeve also having forward and aft ends, the aft end of the flow sleeve supporting an annular ring formed with a plurality of cooling bores and extending through the flow sleeve, at least some of the plurality of cooling bores formed at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the liner. |
| US08677758B2 |
Dilating fan duct nozzle
A turbofan engine includes an engine core and a ducted fan assembly, with the ducted fan assembly including an annular cowling and a dilating fan duct nozzle. The nozzle includes continuous nozzle sections with intermeshing tiles. The tiles include drive tiles that are pivotal between nominal and dilated positions and driven tiles that intermesh with the drive tiles and shift with the drive tiles between the positions. The intermeshing tiles cooperatively adjust an orifice size of the nozzle by shifting between the positions and thereby affect the thrust and noise developed by the ducted fan assembly. |
| US08677754B2 |
Fuel supply system for a gas-turbine engine
On a fuel supply system for a gas-turbine engine with a high-pressure supply line and a fuel metering unit, the fuel distribution system connected to staged or non-staged burners includes only one single fuel line (3) and the valve arrangements (7) connected to this fuel line and directly associated to individual burners (4), with the valve arrangements (7) each having several cutoff valves (8 to 10), which are—independently of each other—individually or simultaneously electrically settable to a closed or open limit position, with the cutoff valves each featuring a specific, yet different cross-sectional area. The simply designed, low-wear and low-maintenance fuel supply and distribution system, avoids coking in the one fuel line in the hot engine section, and enables a binary-coded fuel supply to the respective burner. With a sufficient number of valves in each arrangement, the fuel metering unit can be omitted. |
| US08677753B2 |
System for supplying a working fluid to a combustor
A system for supplying a working fluid to a combustor includes a fuel nozzle, a combustion chamber downstream from the fuel nozzle, and a flow sleeve that circumferentially surrounds the combustion chamber. A plurality of fuel injectors are circumferentially arranged around the flow sleeve to provide fluid communication through the flow sleeve to the combustion chamber. A distribution manifold circumferentially surrounds the plurality of fuel injectors, and a fluid passage through the flow sleeve and into the distribution manifold provides fluid communication through the flow sleeve to the plurality of fuel injectors. |
| US08677751B2 |
Rich fuel mixture super-turbocharged engine system
Disclosed is a super-turbocharger system that increases power and efficiency of an engine. The system uses the exothermic properties of a catalytic converter to extract additional energy from exhaust heat that is used to add power to the engine. Compressed air is supplied and mixed with exhaust gases upstream and/or downstream from a catalytic converter that is connected to an exhaust manifold. The gaseous mixture of exhaust gases and compressed air is sufficiently rich in oxygen to oxidize hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide in the catalytic converter, which adds heat to the gaseous mixture. In addition, a sufficient amount of compressed air is supplied to the exhaust gases to maintain the temperature of the gaseous mixture at a substantially optimal temperature level. The gaseous mixture is applied to the turbine of the super-turbocharger, which increases the output of said super-turbocharger, which increases the power and efficiency of said engine. The engine throttle is used to control the pressure level of the compressed air to ensure proper flow of cooling gases and oxidation gases. |
| US08677746B2 |
Master cylinder and brake booster assembly
A brake booster includes a housing, a retention cuff, and a spring. The housing defines a passage to an interior chamber. The retention cuff is positioned in the interior chamber about the passage. The spring engages the retention cuff in the interior chamber. The master cylinder arrangement includes a tube member and a brake fluid reservoir. The tube member includes a first end and a second end. The tube member extends through the passage and the retention cuff such that the first end of the tube member is exposed to the interior chamber of the brake booster. The brake fluid reservoir is in fluid communication with the tube member. |
| US08677743B2 |
Wave energy extraction and accumulation system
Invention for extraction and accumulation of energy from displacement of an agitated fluid includes buoyant body, camshaft, flywheel, and platforms. Buoyant body floats upon agitated fluid surface and is constrained to vertical translation. Buoyant body translation is converted to flywheel rotation via bearings which engage helical cam tracks of a camshaft. Camshaft is torsionally engaged with flywheel. Buoyant body and camshaft are fitted with unidirectional rotary clutches. Upon action of rising wave, buoyant force is exerted upon buoyant body, displacing body vertically and causing bearings to apply torsion to camshaft, driving camshaft and flywheel into rotation. Upon wave recession, buoyant body descends under self weight via freewheeling action of unidirectional clutches. Flywheel may be filled with or emptied of fluid to adjust its rotary inertia during operation. Buoyant body has a tapered shape and may be filled with or emptied of fluid to adjust its interface with agitated fluid. |
| US08677731B2 |
Hybrid slinger combustion system
A hybrid combustor combines two distinct fuel injection sources to spray fuel in the combustor. The combustor combines a rotary fuel slinger for spraying fuel in a first combustion zone during high power level and cruise conditions and a set of fuel nozzles for spraying fuel in a second combustion zone during lower power level and starting conditions. |
| US08677730B2 |
Low-temperature motor compressor unit with continuous “cold” combustion at constant pressure and with active chamber
Low-temperature, continuous “cold” combustion, constant pressure, active chamber motor-compressor unit operating with working compressed air and using a piston travel control device as well as an active chamber, with a cold chamber (29) able to reduce to very low temperatures the atmospheric air that supplies the input (28) of an air compression device (28,25,26,33), which then forces this working compressed air, still at low temperature, in an external combustion chamber (19) fitted with a heating device (19A) at constant pressure where it increases in volume, before its quasi-isothermal transfer in the active chamber (13) producing work, before being expanded in an engine cylinder (2) to produce work again. |
| US08677727B2 |
Quick release fastening system
Locking devices as well as methods of their manufacture and use are disclosed. One locking device includes first and second legs operatively coupled together to form a perimeter substantially uninterrupted from a proximal end of the first leg to a proximal end of the second leg. The proximal ends are separated by an opening, and each proximal end respectively defines a passage. A keyway extends from the first leg passage, and first and second shoulders are adjacent the keyway. A receiving area extends from the second leg passage. A locking pin passes through the second leg passage and is movable between an open position, a closed position, and an intermediate position. The locking pin has a key and a stop that prevent the locking pin from passing entirely through the second leg passage. A biasing member biases the locking pin in various ways. |
| US08677724B2 |
Round baler for baling crop residue
A method of converting a conventional round baler to a round baler with an accumulator chamber is disclosed. |
| US08677717B2 |
Methods and systems for composite structural truss
Methods and structures for a composite truss structure are provided. The structure includes a web formed of a plurality of sheets of composite material, each sheet including a first face and an opposing second face and each face including a length and a width. Each of the plurality of sheets are coupled to at least one other of the plurality of sheets face to face such that the length and width of each face substantially match the length and width of a face of an adjacent sheet. The plurality of sheets are formed to include an upper chord member, a lower chord member, and a plurality of web members extending therebetween. The structure also includes at least a first flange plate coupled to the web proximate an outer periphery of the web. |
| US08677715B2 |
Building elements and building system using such elements
A building element is in the form of hollow brick having a plane major face and dovetailed projections on an opposite major face for slotting together with similar building elements for the construction of masonry structures. The building element has internal through cavities for housing of operative connections of distribution systems and the like, arranged according to an array parallel to said plane major face, which is formed with references for identification from outside of each through cavity. |
| US08677711B2 |
Free-standing wall arrangement and methods
A free-standing wall includes concrete base blocks adjacent to each other forming a base course; a first set of concrete wall blocks stacked on the base course and on each other to form a first wall face; and a second set of concrete wall blocks stacked on the base course and on each other to form a second wall face that faces the opposite direction from the first wall face and that has the same number of courses as the first plurality of wall blocks. Methods of constructing the wall arrangement include laying the base blocks next to each other end to end; stacking individual blocks of a first set of blocks on the base course and then on each other to form a first wall face; stacking individual blocks of the second set of blocks on the base course and then on each other to form a second wall face that faces a direction opposite of the first wall face. |
| US08677710B2 |
Roofing tile fastening system
A roofing tile installation system includes spaced rows of installation strips each having an elongated base to which is attached a plurality of spaced apart hooks. The hooks are formed with a profile that engages and presses on underlying tiles and that grips and hooks around the lower edge of an overlying tile. Each tile is positioned and held laterally between a pair of hooks and held vertically on the slope of a roof by a single hook. An improved weatherproofing system includes a second layer of water resistive material which protects an underlying layer of plastic weatherproofing material against exposure to sunlight and erosion from wind and rain. |
| US08677709B2 |
Composite exterior siding panel with interlock
Disclosed herein is an interlocking siding panel system for securing to the side of a structure with planar surfaces. When the panel is secured to the structure through the nail strip a full contact strip opposite the nail strip lays flat against the structure causing the panel portion below an point of inflection in the panel to raise up off of the structure creating a gap to facilitate movement of moisture past a locking leg that integrates with the panel below. |
| US08677707B2 |
Door skin, method of manufacturing a door produced therewith, and door produced therefrom
A door skin comprises an exterior side and an interior side for being secured to a frame member. First and second molded, spaced stiles lie on a first plane. A flat planar portion is disposed between the stiles and lies on a second plane spaced from the first plane. A first interface portion is disposed between and contiguous with the stiles and the flat planar portion. First and second integrally molded, spaced rails lie on a third plane, wherein the third plane is intermediate the first and second planes. |
| US08677706B2 |
Building wall with fluid ducts as energy barriers
The invention relates to a wall or roof surface element comprising a temperature barrier layer and an extremely thin external insulating layer. Alternatively, an absorption layer can also be provided on the external side. A building fitted with said type of elements has a positive energy balance. |
| US08677705B2 |
Grain bin support structure for conditioning system and method of installing same
A support structure for conditioning systems, such as blowers and/or heaters, that are used with grain bins and a method for installing same. To aid in aligning the conditioning system and grain bin, one embodiment uses beams that are partially embedded in the grain bin's concrete foundation and extend from the foundation. By linking the grain bin's foundation with the support structure that carries the conditioning system, the grain bin and support structure are aligned with respect to each other. Any movement of the grain bin's foundation will cause concomitant movement of the support base to prevent misalignment between the grain bin and conditioning system as time goes on. |
| US08677704B2 |
Modular wall system
Designed for office interior environments and layouts, there is provided a module wall system that comprises a module having a number of cavities and opposite cavities. The modules may include board plates, lateral plates, cover plates, and internal rails that are built to accommodate cables and utilities. The internal rails may be posted throughout the length of such modules and may interconnect with columns. The cavities may have cover plates positioned conveniently to form a structural, functional and decorative composition. The modules are interconnected, structured and fixed with the columns, which can be posted vertically and sitting on feet, to provide better stability. The columns are hollow and fitted with removable column cover for access to wiring or complementary accommodation of decorative objects. Modules may form various convenient work areas or cubicle layouts with functional and aesthetic environments. The columns may have different cross sectional formats, such as the square, triangular, hexagonal, etc. formats shown. |
| US08677702B2 |
Photovoltaic systems, methods for installing photovoltaic systems, and kits for installing photovoltaic systems
The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic systems for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing system including a plurality of photovoltaic elements contiguously disposed on a roof deck arranged in at least two horizontal rows, defining a photovoltaic area; a plurality of roofing elements disposed adjacent the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, along their side edges; side flashing disposed along the side edges of the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, the side flashing having a flange facing away from the photovoltaic area at least partially disposed between a roofing element and the roof deck, and a structure at least partially disposed on the surface of the photovoltaic element or at least partially disposed between a photovoltaic element and the roof deck. |
| US08677701B2 |
Attaching solar collectors to a structural framework utilizing a flexible clip
Methods and apparatuses described herein provide for the attachment of solar collectors to a structural framework in a solar array assembly. A flexible clip is attached to either end of each solar collector and utilized to attach the solar collector to the structural framework. The solar collectors are positioned to allow a member of the framework to engage a pair of flexible clips attached to adjacent solar collectors during assembly of the solar array. Each flexible clip may have multiple frame-engaging portions, each with a flange on one end to cause the flexible clip to deflect inward when engaged by the framework member during assembly and to guide each of the frame-engaging portions into contact with a surface of the framework member for attachment. |
| US08677700B2 |
Foundation system for electrical utility structures
A foundation system for electrical utility structures is provided that minimizes impact on the chosen construction site, minimizes labor and minimizes associated installation costs. The foundation system comprises a structure to be supported at its base which has a plurality of arm members secured to the base and a plurality of helical piers or micropiles which are inserted into the ground and distally attached to the base of the structure by attaching to the arm members. |
| US08677697B2 |
Lifting anchor for a concrete slab
An anchor for embedment in a concrete slab to provide for the lifting of the slab comprises first and second elongate plates adapted to be arranged in facing relationship for form a composite anchor. Each of the first and second plates has a distal end and a proximate end and at one hole between the distal and proximate ends. The proximate end of each plate has a flange bent outwardly of the outer planer face thereof. The distal end of each plate has laterally projecting feet that are bent laterally of a planar face. The side edges of each of the plates have converging side edges that extend downwardly to the feet. |
| US08677696B2 |
Fixing system and method
A method of fixing overlaying components together, comprising the step of piercing nails having a profiled shank through the components to fix those components together. Structures including metal sheet are also disclosed which utilize this fixing technique. The structures include composite wall panels used in tilt up wall panel construction. |
| US08677695B2 |
Eaves trough detritus deterrent appliance
A detritus exclusion appliance includes a support that is preferably, but not necessarily, constructed of extruded aluminum and that comprises a screen made of surgical grade stainless steel wire mesh that prevents debris from entering rain gutters. The support is preferably formed of an extruded material that includes one or more upwardly projecting support beams. A center beam may project upwardly beyond beams to either side of it to create a curved profile in which the wire mesh is curved along an axis of the support to slope downwardly on either side of the center beam. This arrangement assists in shedding detritus and debris from the screen. Various embodiments are described. |
| US08677692B2 |
Door latch cover
A cover for an automatic vehicle door latch. The cover comprises a first wall having a free top and bottom edge, and a second edge intersecting an edge of a second wall. The second wall also includes top, free and bottom edges, wherein the bottom and top edge of the first and second walls are contiguous. The first and second walls are angled relative to one another at the intersecting edges. A top ridge protrudes from the walls adjacent the top edges, and a second ridge protrudes from the wall between the top and bottom ridges such that the top ridge and the second ridge define a channel therebetween. |
| US08677691B2 |
Sealing device and corresponding assembly
The present invention relates to a sealing device, of the type including a base body suitable for sealing an opening, movable between an open position and a closed position, a thrust element having first and second ends, and a slack configuration and a tight configuration, and the first end of the thrust element being connected to the base body. |
| US08677690B2 |
Fuel door opening/closing apparatus for vehicle
A fuel door opening/closing apparatus for a vehicle is configured to lock and release a fuel door for opening and closing an oil filling opening of the vehicle. The fuel door opening/closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a housing mounted to a hinge of a fuel door rotatably mounted to a fuel door housing, a motor installed within the housing, a locking rod configured to be moved between a locking position for locking the fuel door and a releasing position for releasing a locked state of the fuel door, and a power transmission configured to receive power of the motor, convert rotation of the motor to linear movement, and transmit the linear movement to the locking rod. |
| US08677685B2 |
Hydroponic system
A hydroponic system consists of a hydroponic tank, a carrier or carriers for carrying or growing plants, a float or floats, and a supplementary lifting unit. The supplementary lifting unit includes a take-up mechanism having a small reel and one or multiple large reels configured subject to the circumference ratio of 1:≧1 so that increasing the fluid level in the hydroponic tank to lift or lower the float one unit-height causes the carriers and the plants thereof to be lowered or lifted one unit-height plus the height corresponding to the circumference ratio between the large reel and the small reel for enabling the roots, stems and leaves of the growing plants to be dipped in the nutrient solution in the hydroponic tank or exposed to the outside air. |
| US08677680B2 |
Fire ant suppression system
The present disclosure illustrates a method, apparatus and system for treating fire ant mounds. One or more aspects comprise a pressure vessel for holding water and steam, a water-heating circuitous pipe network for heating water and a steam-heating circuitous pipe network for heating steam. A heat source contemporaneously heats the water-heating circuitous pipe network, the steam-heating circuitous pipe network and the pressure vessel. Steam is generated, superheated and is supplied to a probe for applying steam to fire ant mounds. A nozzle containing counter-sunken ports may be attached to the probe. A sliding hammer to aid insertion and extraction may be fixed to the probe. An articulated protective shroud attached to the probe remains in contact with the ant mound surface. |
| US08677679B2 |
Ampoule for the storage and dispersion of volatile liquids
In one aspect, the present invention is directed to an ampoule for the storage and dispersion of a volatile liquid comprised of (a) an outer shell composed of an impermeable material and defining at least one opening; (b) a porous diffusion member defining an internal reservoir positioned inside said outer shell; (c) a volatile liquid contained within such internal reservoir; and (d) a film member adhered to the outer shell and covering the at least one opening; wherein the film member is disposed such that an air space is present between the porous diffusion member and the film member; and wherein the porous diffusion member is configured such that molecules of the volatile liquid can only enter into the air space via diffusion through the porous diffusion member. Such ampoules are particularly suited for the storage and dispersion of organic chemicals useful as bed bug attractants, such as a C8-C12 alkane. In another aspect, this invention is directed to a device adapted to receive one or more of such ampoules. In one preferred embodiment, such device is a bed bug capturing device. |
| US08677678B2 |
Flying insect trap with attractant ports
An insect trap (100) includes an entrapment chamber (110) with an entry structure (140) over one open end. The entry structure includes (i) a lid (142) with a central aperture (144) and one or more peripheral apertures (146); (ii) a tapered guide (150) on one side of the lid, and (iii) a port fixture (160) that extends through the central aperture and engages the tapered guide. The port fixture includes one or more tubular ports (168) that extend through the peripheral apertures, and one or more cartridges (170) that are removably inserted into the tubular ports. The cartridges contain attractant that is exposed to the interior of the attractant chamber when the trap is assembled. The cartridges may be replaced to replenish or replace attractant without removing the entry structure. |
| US08677675B2 |
Multi-pronged spear-fishing spear tip
The multi-pronged spear-fishing spear tip includes a collar for mounting the multi-pronged spear-fishing spear tip onto a spear shaft. An elongate center tine extends axially from the collar and includes a spear point for piercing fish or prey. A plurality of diverging tines with piercing tips surround the center tine, the diverging tines immobilizing the fish or prey pierced by the center tine. Each diverging tine extends from the collar at a diverging angle from the axis of the collar. The length of the center tine is longer than the length of the diverging tines to accommodate most sizes of fish or prey. This construction provides the functionality of a single-point spear and a paralyzer spear in a single unit. |
| US08677670B2 |
Segmented composite barrel for weapon
A rifle barrel for a gas-operated rifle includes a metallic liner with a longitudinal bore and a transverse gas port through the liner to the bore intermediate along a length of the liner. A thermally conductive sleeve circumscribes the liner substantially along the length of the liner. A composite wrap circumscribes the sleeve substantially along a length of the sleeve. The composite wrap is separated from the gas port. |
| US08677669B1 |
Shoulder stock adapter for a handgun
An adapter is described for use in attaching a shoulder stock to a handgun with a bottom opening handgrip recess. The adapter includes an upright member having upper and lower ends and a longitudinal slot to attach a stock. A lower arm extends forward from the upright member lower end, and a brace arm extends forward from the upright member upper end. A recess insert extends upwardly from the distal end of the lower arm. A latching member releasibly secures the insert in the handgrip recess. Also described is a grip plate module to replace the grip plates on a handgun handgrip that does not include a recess. The module includes first and second replacement grip plates for attachment in place of the original grip plates, and a replacement grip plate connector extending between the replacement grip plates. The connector includes a bottom opening recess to receive an adapter insert. |
| US08677667B2 |
Ambidextrous thumb safety for a handgun
Provided herein are an ambidextrous thumb safety and apparatuses for providing the same for a handgun. The ambidextrous thumb safety and apparatuses generally comprise right and left thumb safeties pivotally mounted in opposition to a handgun frame, means for pivotally interconnecting the mounted right and left thumb safeties on the handgun frame and means for initiating pivotal movement of the right and left side plates upon application of a force thereto. Particularly, a secondary pin with a threaded end extends from the sear contact surface on the right thumb safety and is connected to the left thumb safety via a screw at a counterbored hole through the left thumb safety. |
| US08677662B2 |
LCD TFT sign for on-board use in public transportation
An LCD destination sign is provided that provides a high resolution image and operates in at least two modes. One mode is a destination message mode that is used when a destination message (i.e., a route number and/or destination name in substantially static alphanumeric or symbols) is to be displayed on the destination sign. The second mode is a non-destination mode wherein graphic images are displayed on the destination sign, wherein such graphic images do not provide a destination message and may include video feeds, weather forecasts or newsreels. |
| US08677655B2 |
Shoe with anti-slip device
A shoe includes a vamp, an insole, a flexible pad, a spike set, a mediate part and an outsole part. The flexible pad includes multiple slits and the spikes of the spike set are inserted into the slits. The combination of the flexible pad 11 and the spike set are connected to the mediate part and the insole is connected to the top of the combination by way of injection molding. The vamp is connected to the mediate part and the outsole part is connected to the mediate part and the mediate part by way of injection molding. The flexible pad and the spike set protrude out from the underside of the outsole part. |
| US08677653B2 |
Interchangeable insert system for footwear
An insert system for an article of footwear includes an outer assembly, a first insert assembly and a second insert assembly. The outer assembly is configured to interchangeably receive the first insert assembly and the second insert assembly. The first insert assembly includes a first sleeve member and a first midsole configured to provide enhanced cushioning and support. The first sleeve member includes a tongue and a fastening member that wraps around the tongue. The second insert assembly includes a second sleeve member and a second midsole configured to enhance speed. |
| US08677652B2 |
Shoe having an inflatable bladder
An article of footwear including a sole and an upper with an exterior and interior surface, and one or more bladders which comprises at least one of the exterior or interior surfaces of the upper. The bladder comprising sheets of polyurethane or polyester film attached together to form an airtight seal. The article of footwear also includes a inflation mechanism for selectively introducing air in the one or more bladders. The inflation mechanism is located under the foot of the wearer to be activated by the normal action of the wearer to inflate the one or more bladders. The article of footwear may also include an assembly for connecting several tubes to one under foot inflation mechanism. The article of footwear may also include inflatable laces that are inflated by an underfoot inflation mechanism. |
| US08677651B2 |
Adhesive footwear
This invention is a type of adhesive footwear for humans. The adhesive bond between the footwear and foot eliminates the need for shoestrings, Velcro, zippers, or any other type of fastening device. Unlike other types of footwear, the adhesive bond enables the footwear to remain in place and causes less discomfort when the foot becomes wet, sandy, or muddy. The footwear is precut into a shape that makes it capable of fitting several different sizes and types of feet. It is applied to the feet by stepping directly onto the adhesive side of the slip resistant material. Only the material needed will remain attached to the foot, making the footwear as light as possible. |
| US08677650B2 |
Methods and devices for drying coated stents
Various embodiments of methods and devices for drying coated stents in an oven are described herein. |
| US08677649B2 |
Large-scale lyophilization device
A device for large-scale lyophilization of pharmaceutical solutions in medical hollow bodies, includes a lyophilization device and at least one camera. Images of at least one pharmaceutical solution to be lyophilized are recorded by the at least one camera. The images may be used for controlling and/or monitoring the lyophilization process. |
| US08677648B2 |
Grain aeration system
An aeration system for aerating particulate materials disposed in a storage bin is provided. The aeration system comprises a plurality of elongated hollow aerators and a supply conduit connected to each of the plurality of aerators. The supply conduit is connected to a blowing mechanism for receiving air there from and for providing the air to the aerators. Each aerator is disposed inside the storage bin having a substantially vertical orientation and mounted to an inside surface of a wall of the storage bin such that the aerator is structurally supported by the wall. Each aerator has at least an opening for transmitting air from inside the aerator to the particulate materials. |
| US08677644B1 |
Locking wedge gage tool assembly for assault weapon
An assault weapon locking wedge gage tool assembly includes a main body portion; at least one limit stop plate assembly connected to the main body portion; an interchangeable locking wedge stop connected to the limit stop plate assembly and configured to engage a locking wedge of a weapon; a moveable gage ball plunger positioned in the limit stop plate assembly and contacting the locking wedge; at least one position indicator operatively connected to the moveable gage ball plunger, wherein the position indicator displays a relative position of the locking wedge with respect to a known position of the locking wedge stop. The assembly includes an interchangeable ring configured around the main body portion. |
| US08677643B2 |
Coordinate measurement machines with removable accessories
A portable articulated arm coordinate measuring machine for measuring the coordinates of an object in space is provided. The AACMM includes a base and an arm portion having an opposed first and second ends. The arm portion including a plurality of connected arm segments that each includes at least one position transducer for producing a position signal. An electronic circuit is provided that receives the position signal from the at least one position transducer and provides data corresponding to a position of the measurement device. A noncontact three-dimensional measuring device is coupled to the first end, the device having an electromagnetic radiation transmitter and is configured to determine a distance to an object based at least in part on the speed of light in air. A processor is configured to determine the three-dimensional coordinates of a point on the object in response to receiving the position signals and the distance to the object. |
| US08677642B2 |
Three-dimensional measurement device
The invention concerns a three-dimensional measuring device, which comprises: a base (5) intended to be fixed to a support assembly (6) and lying in a first plane, a plate (14) mounted so as to rotate on the base (5) about a first axis (Z), said plate being equipped with a first sensor (c1) determining the angle of rotation (Φ) of the plate about this first axis (Z), a single rocking telescopic arm (2), a first end of which is articulated on the plate (14) about a second axis (X) orthogonal to the first axis (Z), the angle of rotation (θ) of said arm about the second axis (X) being determined by a second sensor (c2), the second end of the single telescopic arm being provided with a measuring feeler (3), and the said single arm being equipped with a third sensor (c3) determining the elongation length (ρ) of the arm in translation, so that the spatial position of the measuring feeler is determined by its polar coordinates (ρ, θ, Φ) in the fixed three-dimensional reference frame consisting of the base (5) once the latter is fixed to the support assembly (6). |
| US08677641B2 |
Artists relative measuring device
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a plurality of approximately evenly spaced graduation marks disposed along the length of an art implement handle. Some embodiments may enable an artist to more accurately compare the relative sizes of different portions of his subjects so that he may depict them to scale, and or create a to-scale representation of an object. |
| US08677640B2 |
Magnetometer accuracy and use
A parameter related to the Earth's magnetic field can be used to determine accuracy of a magnetometer of a mobile device. In one aspect, a first instance of a parameter related to Earth's magnetic field is determined using data generated by the magnetometer. The magnetometer data can be based in part on a position of the mobile device with respect to the Earth. A second instance of the parameter can be determined using data generated by a model of Earth's magnetic field. The model data can also be based in part on the position of the mobile device with respect to the Earth. The first instance of the parameter can be compared with the second instance of the parameter. An accuracy metric for the magnetometer can be determined based on a result of the comparison. An indication of the accuracy metric can be presented by the mobile device. |
| US08677638B2 |
Spacer for placing retroreflectors of varying sizes on a standard drill adapter
The invention relates to an adapter top for adapting a drilling with 3D-coordinate measurement technology, which may be placed on drilling adapter with a first housing for a first retroreflector with a first diameter, and the adapter top comprises a second housing for a second retroreflector with a second diameter, wherein the second diameter is greater than the first diameter. The invention further relates to a positioning element for adapting a drilling with 3D-coordinate measurement technology by adjusting the relative position of a first standard drilling adapter with a first housing for a first retroreflector with a first diameter and an adapter fitting which is designed such that by combination of the first standard drilling adapter with the positioning element and the adapter fitting a standard drilling adapter with a second housing for a second retroreflector with second diameter can be emulated. |
| US08677634B2 |
Power tools
A power tool is provided with a perforated material remover to remove perforated material from power tool cutting implements. The power tool also includes a rip guide which has a long guide edge and two attachment points to the shoe/base of the saw. The rip guide is attached to the base/shoe via a pair of L-shaped openings that accept L-shaped support arms of the rip guide. The rip guide can also be folded for compact storage. The power tool also includes dual bevel scales for quickly and easily setting the bevel angle on the power tool. |
| US08677632B2 |
String trimmer
A string trimmer has a blade storage mechanism wherein the blade storage mechanism has a cavity arranged on the body of the string trimmer for storing a blade. |
| US08677631B2 |
Scissors
A pair of scissors includes a pair of plate-shaped blades respectively formed by press working. Each of the blades pairing up with each other includes an edge line portion for sliding against the other blade and a recessed portion which is formed at a portion adjacent to the edge line portion with a difference in level from the edge line portion, which is away from a blade back face of the other blade in a thickness direction, and which has a bottom face substantially parallel to a blade back face of the edge line portion. |
| US08677625B2 |
Process for repairing a damaged area of an aircraft fuselage
A process for cutting out a damaged area of an aircraft fuselage, in particular so as to repair the damaged area, includes in making at least one cut-out in the fuselage (20) so as to delimit a cut-out area (24) that encompasses the damaged area and that includes at least one flare-out, characterized in that it includes making a hole (34) at the flare-out of the cut-out area (24) with a tool whose diameter corresponds to that of the desired flare-out. |
| US08677621B2 |
Method for the repair of a compressor rotor designed in blisk technology
With a method for the repair of compressor rotors designed in blisk technology the damaged stage is severed from the rotor, and a new blisk is joined to the rotor by electron-beam welding. For stress relieving the rotor is subjected to local thermal treatment by means of a current produced in the weld area by electro-magnetic induction. |
| US08677618B2 |
Method of manufacturing substrate using a carrier
A method of manufacturing a substrate using a carrier, that includes preparing a carrier having a releasing layer, and insulating layers and metal layers sequentially disposed on both sides of the releasing layer; patterning the metal layers to form base circuit layers; forming buildup layers on the base circuit layers; executing a routing process to separate the insulating layers from the releasing layer; and forming solder resist layers on the buildup layers and forming openings in the solder resist layers and the insulating layers to expose pads. |
| US08677617B2 |
Printed circuit board edge connector
A printed circuit board assembly and method of assembly is provided for a printed circuit board having a top and bottom surface with at least one edge portion having a rounded surface extending from the top surface to a point below the top surface and at least one electrical contact pad located on the top surface and extending over the edge portion rounded surface to a point below the top surface. |
| US08677615B2 |
Method for embedding electrical components
A method for embedding at least one component into a dielectric layer. obtain a good result, it is provided that the method includes the following steps: a) Position and affix the at least one component on a carrier; b) Cast a liquid dielectric around the at least one component, thereby enclosing the at least one component completely; c) Harden the liquid dielectric to form a solid dielectric layer; and d) Apply, in particular by lamination thereon, another layer, in particular an electrically conductive layer. The use of a dielectric layer formed entirely of liquid dielectric, wherein the liquid dielectric is not converted into a solid state until the dielectric is processed. |
| US08677611B2 |
Methods of making calibration-adjusted sensors
A sensor, and methods of making, for determining the concentration of an analyte, such as glucose, in a biological fluid such as blood or serum, using techniques such as coulometry, amperometry, and potentiometry. The sensor includes a working electrode and a counter electrode, and may include an insertion monitoring trace to determine correct positioning of the sensor in a connector. The sensor is calibration-adjusted, eliminating the need for a user to enter a calibration code or for the meter to read a calibration code. |
| US08677609B2 |
Method for producing a circuit-breaker pole part
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a method for producing a circuit-breaker pole part by molding an external insulating sleeve with insulation material, mounting a vacuum interrupter insert inside the insulating sleeve, electrically connecting the vacuum interrupter insert with an upper electrical terminal and a lower electrical terminal arranged in the wall section of the insulating sleeve The method also includes molding the external insulating sleeve, wherein only the upper electrical terminal is embedded in the insulation material, coating the vacuum interrupter insert with an extra layer made of insulation material for thermo extension compensation, mounting the coated vacuum interrupter insert by screwing on a threaded bolt onto the upper electrical terminal. |
| US08677607B2 |
Method of manufacturing magnetoresistive element
The method according to the present invention includes the steps of: sequentially applying a plurality of different voltages to an MR element and sequentially detecting output signals from the MR element; and eliminating the MR element as a defective product when an evaluation value, based on a difference of SN ratios of the output signals from the MR element respectively obtained for each applied voltage, is less than a threshold value, and selecting the MR element as a non-defective product when the evaluation value is greater than or equal to the threshold value. |
| US08677604B2 |
Method of manufacturing boundary acoustic wave device
A method of manufacturing a boundary acoustic wave device includes the steps of forming an electrode on a first medium layer, forming a second medium layer so as to cover the electrode on the first medium layer, and forming a sound absorbing layer on an external surface of the second medium layer. The sound absorbing layer has an acoustic velocity of transverse waves that is lower than an acoustic velocity of transverse waves of the second medium layer. |
| US08677602B2 |
Method of making a flexible device shaft with angled spiral wrap
Spiral-wound materials, spirals, and shafts made therefrom that have wraps with edges that may nest within one another are described. Such edges allow the spiral to achieve a smaller bending radius, meaning tighter turns and more flexibility due to the ability of adjacent wraps to nest within each other when the shaft is bent. Spirals having wraps with edges capable of nesting can be used in the medical field for devices that track anatomy, such as endoscopes, colonoscopes, catheters, and the like. |
| US08677601B2 |
Prosthetic heart valve, prosthetic heart valve assembly and method for making same
A method of forming a leaflet of a prosthetic valve includes placing a first piece of material on a working surface. A leaflet mold is placed on the first piece of material, and provides a outer peripheral shape comprising a curved portion. A second piece of material is placed over the first piece and the leaflet mold. The first and second pieces of material are stitched to one another along at least a portion of the curved portion of the leaflet mold. The leaflet mold is removed from first and second pieces of material. |
| US08677595B2 |
Method of making retractable pipe and product thereof
A method of making retractable pipe, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: (1) preparing a pipe body which comprises an outer pipe and an inner pipe; providing a handle seat and a handle button on the outer pipe; providing a handle actuation means inside the handle seat; providing a push rod assembly, a locking block, a sliding block and a reset spring at the handle actuation means; (2) providing a guiding groove and locking troughs on the inner pipe, and arranging locking troughs on the inner pipe; (3) providing a fixing sleeve inside the handle seat; providing raised guiding rails on the fixing sleeve; the raised guiding rails are slidably inserted in the guiding groove; the sliding block forces a locking tongue to fit into the locking trough to lock the retractable pipe. A retractable pipe made by the above method is also disclosed. |
| US08677588B2 |
Rivet setting tool
A rivet setter has a holder for holding a blind rivet prior to said rivet being set by means of the setter. The holder has a central cylindrical passage, the diameter of which is somewhat greater than the diameter of the mandrel. At least two, preferably three clamping jaws, which are guided in radial slots so as to be radially and axially displaceable, act on the mandrel. The width of the slot is smaller than the diameter of the mandrel. |
| US08677584B2 |
Coolant supply structure for turret tool head
To provide a coolant supply structure for a turret tool rest in which the central part of the intermediate shaft can be utilized effectively as a space and there is no need to allow this shaft to be hollow when a shaft such as a driving shaft is inserted.In a coolant supply structure for a turret tool rest to supply a coolant to a tool mounting part of a turret 12, which is provided in a turret tool rest 1 having a turret 12 with a tool T being mounted thereon, a hollow rotating shaft 15 for rotating the turret 12 and a hollow intermediate shaft 19 arranged within the rotating shaft 15, wherein the coolant supply structure has a cylindrical member 23 inserted into the intermediate shaft 19, and a space served as a passage 24 of the coolant is formed between the cylindrical member 23 and the intermediate shaft 19. |
| US08677581B2 |
Deep rolling machine for crankshafts
The invention regards a deep rolling machine (2) for crankshafts (5) with several deep rolling units (3) in a scissor-type configuration that are attached to the deep rolling machine (2) in the direction of the axis of rotation (4) of the crankshaft (5) with respective lateral distances (6) one besides another in a way that they can swivel thanks to the fact that some deep rolling devices (3) are intended for the deep rolling of main bearing journals (14) and other deep rolling units (3) are intended for the deep rolling of the pin bearing journals of the crankshaft (5) and that the deep rolling units (3) carry at the outer ends of their two scissor-type arms respectively one deep roller head (11) and a supporting roller head (9) that, together, form a deep rolling tool (3) where the deep rolling tool (10) along the scissor-type arms has a distance from the fastening point of the deep rolling unit (3) to the deep rolling machine (2) that is long when compared to the ratio between the width (7) of the scissor-type arms and their length. At least one of the deep rolling units (3) intended for the deep rolling of the main bearing journals (14) or of the pin bearing journals features a device (8) that enters into contact with the crankshaft (5) when the deep rolling unit (3) is in its working position, and that stabilizes the deep rolling unit (3) in the direction of the axis of rotation (4) of the crankshaft (5). |
| US08677578B2 |
Device to secure shoelace knot
The device to secure the shoelace knot has flexible upper member and flexible lower member attached preferably using eyelet kind of part at equally spaced lateral apertures of upper member and lower member in a manner where upper member's top surface attaches to lower member's top surface so that shoelace can be inserted through apertures of upper member and a lower member to tie a knot over upper member's bottom surface. After tying regular shoelace bow knot over upper member's bottom surface, the upper member's body is folded at imaginary center axis to fasten the hook and loop ends while securing knot in bigger knot receiving aperture of upper member while lower member rests on shoe's surface providing extra support even when shoe is being used in regress sports activities and ensuring that knot remains tied. |