| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08690618B2 |
Marine vessel propulsion apparatus
A marine vessel propulsion apparatus includes an outboard motor, a transom bracket, a steering shaft, a first mount, a second mount, a tilt bracket, a tilt mechanism, and a steering mechanism. The tilt bracket is attached to a transom via the transom bracket and the steering shaft. The outboard motor is joined to the tilt bracket. The tilt bracket includes a first joint portion joined to the outboard motor via a first mount, a second joint portion joined to the outboard motor via a second mount, and a support portion arranged to support the outboard motor at a height different from heights of the first mount and the second mount. |
| US08690614B2 |
Cable fixing method and cable connecting part
A cable fixing method and a cable connecting part for a connector. In the cable fixing method and the cable connecting part, a part of a cable in a longitudinal direction is inserted into a metallic cylindrical part of a metallic case; and the cable is fixed to the metallic case by crimping the metallic cylindrical part which accommodates the part of the cable in the longitudinal direction in such a manner that 0.60≦K≦0.95 is established, when a cross-sectional area of the cable before crimping the metallic cylindrical part is A, a cross-sectional area of the cable after crimping the metallic cylindrical part is B, and B/A is a crimping ratio K. |
| US08690613B2 |
Connector easily enabling a reduction in thickness and being structurally stable
A conductive terminal member is disposed at a portion between an insulating base film and an insulating cover film while insulating intermediate members are disposed at other portions therebetween. In this event, the intermediate members are formed in predetermined shapes and are located so as not to overlap the terminal member. The base film and the cover film are each melt-fixed to the intermediate members so that the terminal member is fixedly held between the base member and the cover film and with the terminal member 14 bent to penetrate windows 11b, 11c in the base and cover to form contact portions 14a, 14c. |
| US08690608B2 |
Special USB plug having different structure from standard USB plug and USB receptacle matable with the special USB plug
A universal serial bus (USB) receptacle with which and from which a standard USB plug and a special USB plug are selectively matable and removable along a predetermined direction. The standard USB plug is in accordance with a USB standard so as to have a standard shell. The special USB plug has a special shell so as to have a different structure from the standard shell. The USB receptacle comprises a detector. The detector has a contact portion. The contact portion is arranged at a position where the standard shell does not arrive when the standard USB plug is mated with the USB receptacle. The special shell is connected to the contact portion at the position when the special USB plug is mated with the USB receptacle. |
| US08690605B2 |
I/O connector having metal covering portion tightly fixed with insulative housing
An I/O connector (100) includes an insulative housing (10) having a base portion (11) and a fitting portion (12) extending forwardly from the base portion, a number of terminals (30) retained in the insulative housing, and a metal covering portion (20) integrally molded with the insulative housing. The metal covering portion has a main portion (21) embedded with the base portion, a pair of deflexed side portions (22) engaging with two sides of the fitting portion, and a front portion (23) engaging with a front edge of the fitting portion. The main portion defines a slit (212) and forms a corresponding slant portion (213) extending into the slit. The fitting portion forms an upper hook (124). The upper hook is received in the slit and engages with the slant portion. |
| US08690602B2 |
Blind mate interconnect and contact
A coaxial socket contact for connecting to a coaxial transmission medium to form an electrically conductive path between the transmission medium and the coaxial socket contact, the coaxial socket contact includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end with a tubular body between the first end and the second end, the tubular body having a perimeter and a medial region. The contact further includes at least one slotted region having at least one cantilevered arm extending from the medial region to the first end, the slotted region defining a first length along an axis extending from the first end to the second end, the at least one cantilevered arm defining a second length along the at least one cantilevered arm, the second length being longer than the first length for improving mating cycle performance. |
| US08690599B2 |
Cable gland for a shielded cable
A cable gland (1) for a shielded cable (2), including a threaded sleeve (9), a clamping insert (4) that engages therein, and a union nut (7) or pressure screw in the usual manner. The union nut or pressure screw act axially and radially upon an area of the clamping insert (4) protruding beyond the threaded sleeve (9) and radially deforms the clamping area or the clamping finger (6) of the clamping insert. The threaded sleeve (9) contains a contact device (10) having one or more contact fingers (11), which lie against the shielding of the cable (2) in a contacting manner in the working position. The contact device (10) includes a carrier or ring (13) that is arranged in the threaded sleeve (9) in the working position and that has the one or more resilient contact fingers (11), wherein the contact fingers (11) each have a deformable protrusion (14) adjacent to the carrier or ring (13) of the contact fingers in the axial direction, the deformable protrusion having a convex curvature or rectangular shape in the longitudinal section in the initial position, and in continuation thereof after a corresponding bend, the contact fingers extend approximately in the orientation direction of the cable (2), thus in the relative insertion direction of the cable. |
| US08690598B2 |
Communication plug with improved crosstalk
A communication plug having a plug body and a plurality of contact pairs at least partially within the plug body, the contact pairs including an inherent asymmetric coupling between individual contacts of one of the contact pairs and other individual contacts of another of the contact pairs. Second asymmetric coupling elements are connected between the individual contacts of one of the contact pairs and the other individual contacts of another of the contact pairs. The second asymmetric coupling elements, when combined with the inherent asymmetric coupling, provide a balanced symmetric coupling between the individual contacts of one of the contact pairs and the other individual contacts of another of the contact pairs. |
| US08690592B2 |
Structure of security and protection for connection socket
A structure of security and protection for connection socket includes a connection socket, a connection block, a resilient member, and a security member. The connection socket forms a receiving space and a slide channel. The slide channel is located at one side of the receiving space. The connection block is coupled to a rear end of the connection socket and forms a positioning section. The resilient member includes at least one resilient engagement section and is arranged in the positioning section of the connection block. The security member has an end forming a bar section that forms at a rear side thereof a barb section. The barb section is coupled to the at least one resilient engagement section of the resilient member. The bar section has two ends extending rearward to connect to a plate section. The security member is received in the slide channel of the connection socket. |
| US08690591B2 |
Electric vehicle with secondary charge cord release mechanism
A secondary (backup) release (unlocking and unlatching) of a charge cord for plug-in electric vehicles or hybrid electric vehicles is provided. A charging port is configured to receive a charging cord and includes a lock bolt configured to lock the charging cord in the charging port during charging. The vehicle also includes a hood assembly having a hood latch with a first cable coupled to the hood latch. A second cable is coupled to the latch bolt and a sheath of the first cable for unlocking the lock bolt. A retainer is coupled to the hood assembly and is configured to limit movement of the second cable until the hood latch has released the hood assembly. |
| US08690589B2 |
Electrical card-edge connector
A card-edge connector has a housing that includes a housing body, and a plurality of electrical contacts carried by the housing body. The electrical contacts include a plurality of electrical signal contacts and a plurality of electrical power contacts. The electrical signal contacts are sized thinner than the electrical power contacts. The card-edge connector includes a mounting fastener extending out from only one side wall of the housing body at a location adjacent the electrical signal contacts. |
| US08690587B2 |
Connection terminal
A connection terminal includes a first contact member that has a conductive property, that has an approximately plate shape, and that includes a tip portion, a tip of which is sharply pointed; a base end portion, a width of which is less than a width of the tip portion and which extends from a base end of the tip portion; and a protrusion protruding in a direction perpendicular to one plane of the base end portion. The connection terminal also includes a second contact member that has a conductive property, that has an approximately plate shape, and that includes a tip portion, a tip of which is sharply pointed; and a base end portion, a width of which is less than a width of the tip portion and which extends from a base end of the tip portion. The second contact member slides against the protrusion in a direction in which the base end portion extends. The connection terminal also includes a coil spring that surrounds the base end portions and biases the first contact member and the second contact member toward the tip portions sides, respectively. |
| US08690585B2 |
Electrical connector for low profile application
An electrical connector for electrically connecting a central processing unit (CPU) to a printed circuit board (PCB) comprises an insulating housing having a plurality of passageways extending from a top surface to a bottom surface and a plurality of terminals received in the corresponding passageways. Each terminal includes a horizontal base portion with a solder ball attached thereto, a pair of upper legs extending upwardly from one end of the base portion and a pair of lower legs extending downwardly from the other end of the base portion. The upper legs abut against the top surface of the insulating housing and the lower legs abut against the bottom surface of the insulating housing for retaining the terminals in the insulating housing. |
| US08690582B2 |
Magnetic connector for electronic device
An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force from an electromagnet to maintain contact are disclosed. The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter for connecting an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one of the plug or receptacle can be a magnet or ferromagnetic material. The magnetic element on the other of the plug or receptacle is an electromagnet. When the plug and receptacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the electromagnet magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, maintains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship. |
| US08690581B2 |
Opthalmoscope simulator
An ophthalmoscope simulator for simulation and a method for simulation of the handling of an ophthalmoscope, having a support that can be attached to a head of an observer, at least one first imaging display disposed on said support, wherein the display can be placed in front of an eye of the observer for displaying a virtual reality, an ophthalmoscope dummy that can be supported by one hand of the observer, a position recognition system for determining the spatial position and/or orientation of the support and of the ophthalmoscope dummy and a computer for displaying an image of an environment, a patient head and/or at least a portion of the ophthalmoscope dummy on the display. In particular, a patient head dummy is provided that comprises at least one peripheral surface with a patient eye position defined therein, wherein the spatial position and/or orientation of the patient head dummy can be determined and displayed by way of the position recognition system and that in addition to or alternative to the ophthalmoscope dummy an image portion can be added to the image displayed to the observer, wherein the image portion represents a virtual retina as could selectively appear to the observer, taking into account the spatial position of the support, the ophthalmoscope dummy and the patient head dummy. |
| US08690579B2 |
Dental position tracking system for a toothbrush
The dental position tracking system includes a toothbrush (30) which has a system (20) for determining the orientation of the toothbrush in the mouth of a user relative to the earth, based on measured stored information. Information is stored in the toothbrush concerning target ranges of expected measured toothbrush orientations for each of a plurality of dental zones (22). A processor (24) compares the measured toothbrush orientation information with the target orientation ranges, following conversion of both the target orientation information and the measured toothbrush orientation information to the same coordinate system. The processor then determines which if any of the target ranges matches, within a selected tolerance thereof, with the toothbrush orientation information. Any difference between the target range and the measured toothbrush orientation information is then used to partially adjust the target information range, in order to compensate for a change of position of the user's head. |
| US08690577B2 |
System and method for providing an institutional nutrition service
A method, system and computer program product is described for providing meals to consumers in a school district. The method includes utilizing a computer processor to obtain meal offering submissions from food service suppliers, determining whether the meal offering comply with predefined guidelines and displaying the meal offerings that meet the guidelines on a client for selection by a user, and obtaining via user input, orders for the meal offerings. |
| US08690575B1 |
Apparatus and method for a weapon simulator
The present invention is a weapon simulator that is at least partially controlled by a host computer and simulates near actual recoil forces of a weapon via a gun active recoil unit. |
| US08690574B2 |
Methods for placing an implant analog in a physical model of the patient's mouth
A method of placing a dental implant analog in a physical model for use in creating a dental prosthesis is provided. The physical model, which is usually based on an impression of the patient's mouth or a scan of the patient's mouth, is prepared. The model is scanned. A three-dimensional computer model of the physical model is created and is used to develop the location of the dental implant. A robot then modifies the physical model to create an opening for the implant analog. The robot then places the implant analog within the opening at the location dictated by the three-dimensional computer model. |
| US08690569B2 |
Guide tube positioning method in polymeric material plate, tomographic reference support and guide tube positioning device
A method is described for positioning a guide tube on a plate to be positioned over a patient's mandible or maxilla, forming a surgical guide that allows for positioning the guide tube on the exact position so as to enable the drilling of a perfect hole in the patient's bone portion and the subsequent positioning of an implant exactly on the planned spot. A tomographic reference support is described for fixing a guide tube positioning device, and a guide tube positioning device is described for positioning one or more guide tubes on an acrylic plate or the like, configuring a surgical guide. |
| US08690568B2 |
Custom orthodontic appliance forming method and apparatus
A system (10) and method by which an orthodontic appliance (25) is automatically designed and manufactured from digital lower jaw and tooth shape data of a patient provides for the scanning of the mouth of a patient (12), preferably from a model (20) of the patient's mouth, to produce a three-dimensional digitized model (26) of the shapes of the patient's teeth and their positions in the patient's mouth. Then a computer (30) calculates the post-treatment positions of the teeth and produces three-dimensional images of the teeth, individually and in their calculated positions. An interactive computer link between the doctor's office (11) and the appliance manufacturing facility (13) allows an orthodontist (14) to control the patient's archform and to modify the suggested computer-determined positions and orientations of the teeth in six degrees of freedom, and to experiment with new positions, extractions, over-corrections and other variations, with the computer recalculating the tooth positions with high precision for the approval of the orthodontist. The appliance is automatically designed according to the final design, which also can be interactively modified and approved by the orthodontist, with the computer recalculating the effects on the treatment as a result of the doctor's changes. Brackets (81) are fabricated as an integrated set, either by cutting slots therein or by building the brackets in layers by, for example, stereo lithography. Three-dimensional custom jigs (87) are automatically made to exactly position the brackets on a patient's teeth. |
| US08690561B2 |
Method and apparatus for vacuum process of isostatic pressing of powder material
A method for a vacuum process of isostatic pressing of powder material comprises preparing an explosive charged rubber bag by charging a rubber bag with powder, forming a vacuum environment by putting the explosive charged rubber bag in a vacuum box, sealing an inlet of the explosive charged rubber bag which is in a vacuum state, and maintaining the vacuum state by putting the explosive charged rubber bag in a fluid contained in a reservoir by a predetermined depth in a state that the inlet of the explosive charged rubber bag has been sealed. |
| US08690558B2 |
Compressor and manufacturing method thereof
The compressor includes a first constituent element and a first slider. The first constituent element is capable of being laser welded. The first slider is composed of cast iron capable of being laser welded and having a carbon content of from 2.0 wt % or more to 2.7 wt % or less. This first slider is joined to the first constituent element by laser welding without using a filler. |
| US08690557B2 |
Variable displacement vane pump
A variable displacement vane pump includes: a plate side high pressure introduction groove formed in the pressure plate or in the cam ring, formed so that an entire is positioned within a radial width of the cam ring, and a part is positioned in a circumferential region between the suction port and the discharge port, and arranged to receive a hydraulic pressure larger than a suction pressure; and a housing side high pressure introduction groove formed in the second housing or in the cam ring, formed so that an entire is positioned within the radial width of the cam ring, that a radial center is positioned radially outside the radial center of the plate side high pressure introduction groove, and that a part is overlapped with the plate side high pressure introduction groove in the circumferential direction, and arranged to receive the hydraulic pressure larger than the suction pressure. |
| US08690556B2 |
Rotary compressor and manufacturing method of the same
There is disclosed a rotary compressor which delays a pressure rise on a high pressure chamber side in a cylinder of a rotary compression element to decrease a high pressure load applied to a roller and a rotary shaft, thereby improving performance. In the rotary compressor including a sealed container in which an electromotive element (a driving element) and first and second rotary compression elements driven by a rotary shaft of the electromotive element are included, each of the rotary compression elements being constituted of a cylinder, a roller fitted into an eccentric portion formed on the rotary shaft to eccentrically rotate in the cylinder, and a vane which abuts on the roller to partition the inside of the cylinder into a low pressure chamber side and a high pressure chamber side, the inner diameter of a suction passage formed in each cylinder is 59% or more and 70% or less of the thickness of the cylinder. |
| US08690555B2 |
Two-stage rotary expander, expander-compressor unit, and refrigeration cycle apparatus
An expander-compressor unit (10) includes a two-stage rotary expansion mechanism (3) having a first cylinder (41) and a second cylinder (42). In the expansion mechanism (3), a suction port (71) facing a working chamber on the upstream side in the first cylinder (41) and a discharge port facing a working chamber on the downstream side in the second cylinder (42) are formed. An intermediate plate (43) is provided between the first cylinder (41) and the second cylinder (42). In the intermediate plate (43), a communication passage (43a) for allowing communication between a working chamber on the downstream side in the first cylinder (41) and a working chamber on the upstream side in the second cylinder (42) is formed. The communication passage (43a) does not communicate with the working chamber in the first cylinder (41) during the suction process, and communicates with the downstream working chamber in the first cylinder (41) at or after the end of the suction process. |
| US08690552B2 |
Compact and strengthened rotor assembly of a radiator fan
A compact, strengthened rotor assembly of a radiator fan, the radiator fan having a baseplate, a stator assembly, a rotor assembly and a reverse axle. The reverse axle is erected at the center of the baseplate or stator assembly and protruded upwards. The rotor assembly has a hub with a top wall and a circumferential wall. A magnetic ring is set annularly into the circumferential wall. Several blades are set annularly onto the exterior of the circumferential wall. A metal sleeve is located at the center of the top wall and protruded downwards. A mating portion is set at the top of the metal sleeve for mating with the top wall. A holding portion is formed within the metal sleeve for assembly and positioning of a bearing, and the bearing is used for pivoting of the reverse axle. The thickness of the top wall ranges between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm. |
| US08690539B2 |
Boron-based refractory coating for a wind turbine component
A wind turbine including at least one component with a surface is provided. The surface is coated at least in part with a refractory layer, preferably a boron-based refractory layer. Further, a wind farm including such a wind turbine and a method are provided. |
| US08690535B2 |
Measuring loads on wind turbine blades
A sensor system for measuring aerodynamic loads acting on a wind turbine rotor blade is disclosed. The measured aerodynamic loads can be converted to an angle of attack of the resulting wind which flows past the moving rotor blade. The sensor is realized as a trailing edge flap which is elastically moveable relative the main part of the wind turbine blade. By measuring motion of the trailing edge flap or corresponding motions of components of the sensor system, the aerodynamic forces acting on the blade can be determined. Due to the relative small dimensions of the sensor flap and the relative small displacements of the flap, the sensor system only affects the aerodynamic properties insignificantly. |
| US08690529B2 |
Blower
A blower drawing air into the air path and discharging air to the discharge duct, including: a frame forming an outer shell; a fan driven by a motor and having a fan outlet, inside the frame; a duct connection part having a duct connection opening, connected to the discharge duct, outside the frame; and an in-frame blow-out part connecting the duct connection part with the fan outlet, inside the frame. The cross-section shape of the air path changes continuously and smoothly at the in-frame blow-out part and the duct connection part, from the fan outlet to the duct connection opening. |
| US08690527B2 |
Flow discouraging systems and gas turbine engines
A flow discouraging system includes a stator assembly, a rotor assembly, and a plurality of fingers. The stator assembly includes one or more stationary components forming a side wall, the side wall including an annular groove defined by an outer axially-extending surface, an inner axially-extending surface, and a radial surface extending between the outer and inner axially-extending surfaces. The rotor assembly is disposed adjacent to and spaced apart from the stator assembly to form a portion of a cavity and includes an annular rim extending at least partially into the annular groove. The plurality of fingers is disposed in the annular groove and extends from the one or more stationary components the annular rim. |
| US08690522B2 |
Multistage compressor with improved map width performance
A compressor typically for use in a turbocharger comprises a downstream radial compressor impeller wheel, an upstream axial compressor impeller wheel and an intermediate stator. The compressor housing has an inlet with inner and outer walls that define between them an MWE gas flow passage. An upstream opening defined by the flow passage provides communication between the passage and the intake and at least one first slot downstream of the upstream opening provides communication between the passage and the inner surface of the inner wall. The stator comprises a plurality of fixed vanes and is disposed in the inner wall of the inlet between the radial and axial impeller wheels. The position of the slot can be at one of several positions along the gas flow passage, hi other embodiments there are second and third slots and the flow passage is divided into two parts. All the arrangements are designed to improve the compressor map width. |
| US08690519B2 |
Wet gas compressor systems
The present application provides for a wet gas compressor system. The wet gas compressor system may include a wet gas compressor with an inlet section. A variable cross-section nozzle may be positioned about the inlet section. |
| US08690517B1 |
Rack type pipe feeder for a pipe fusion machine
For use in loading heavy sticks of plastic pipe into a pipe fusion machine, a pipe storage rack with hydraulically powered pipe stick dispensers and stands allows sticks of pipe stored on the rack to roll gravitationally onto a rocking V-shaped dispenser cam disposed between the rack and the fusion machine loading path for one-stick-at-a-time loading onto powered track and roller stands which enable Cartesian manipulation of the stick into the fusion machine. The cam is adjustable to suit pipe stick diameters ranging from 20″ to 48″. Many sticks can be stored at one time, releasing heavy lifting equipment and operators to work elsewhere. The process requires only one operator using a pendant controller and the pipe sticks are handled by heavy equipment only when being loaded onto the racks. |
| US08690512B2 |
Apparatus for freight container loading
Disclosed are apparatuses and methods for use thereof for loading bulk material into freight containers. One apparatus comprises a hopper configured to receive bulk material that is sized and shaped to be at least partially enclosable by a container to occupy a substantial volume of the container and a ram. The ram comprises a plate and a driver configured to move the plate from a back end of the hopper to an open end of the hopper to expel material into a container. Another apparatus comprises a hopper configured to receive bulk material that is sized and shaped to be at least partially enclosable by a container to occupy a substantial volume of the container and a reciprocating conveyor floor system. Optionally, the apparatuses further include a stand and/or collapsible legs to further support the hopper. |
| US08690511B2 |
Inline terminal, hub and distribution system
An inline terminal system (300), which includes the steps of: (i) transporting (302) a first container with a cargo via an inbound railroad car to a terminal having a plurality of train rails; (ii) picking and placing (304) the first container from the railroad car to a track side location having at least one buffer in proximity to the plurality of train rails, including: (a) rotating the first container at an angle of at least ten or more degrees with respect to the train rails; and (b) positioning the at least one buffer substantially adjacent to the train rails, at the track side location, at an angle of at least ten or more degrees with respect to the train rails; and (iii) moving (306) the first container via a tractor truck to a desired location for unloading. This system provides a simple, robust and efficient method to load, and in the reverse unload, a container on a chassis or rail car, respectively. |
| US08690508B1 |
Telescoping jack for a gripper assembly
A pipe handling apparatus has a base, a main rotating structural member pivotally connected to the base, a pipe handler connected to the main rotating structural member for moving a pipe from a generally horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation, and a jack connected to the pipe handler. The jack exerts a downward force in generally parallel relation to the pipe when the pipe is in the vertical orientation. The pipe handler has a gripping structure for gripping an outer surface of the pipe. The gripping structure has a stab frame. The jack is affixed to the stab frame. The jack has a piston-and-cylinder assembly positioned relative to the stab frame, and a hydraulic actuator connected to the piston-and-cylinder assembly. The hydraulic actuator is suitable for passing hydraulic fluid to the piston-and-cylinder assembly so as to move the piston-and-cylinder assembly from a retracted position to an extended position. |
| US08690506B2 |
Quick assembly apparatus
A quick assembly apparatus includes a fastening unit, a control unit and an elasticity unit. The fastening unit includes a head section and a fastening section, a through channel connecting the head section and the fastening section, and a notch at the fastening section to form a plurality of elastic fastening elements. The control unit is movably inserted in the through channel, includes a supporting section supporting the elastic fastening elements, a control shaft connected with the supporting section and extending out from the fastening section, and an extension shaft connected with the supporting section and extending towards the head section. The elasticity unit is fitted around the extension shaft of the control unit, and has its one end pushed against the control unit and its another end pushed against the fastening unit. Accordingly, the quick assembly apparatus is capable of quickly and steadily assembling two plates. |
| US08690505B2 |
Fastener arrangements
A fastener arrangement for fastening two or more articles together, the two or more articles having a first length, the fastener arrangement including: a fastener including an elongate clamping member for being received in an aperture of the two or more articles, the elongate clamping member being moveable between a contracted configuration in which the elongate clamping member has a length which is less than the first length and a lengthened configuration in which the elongate clamping member has a length which is greater than the first length, the elongate clamping member being resiliently biased towards the contracted configuration; and an actuator for moving the elongate clamping member, while in the aperture of the two or more articles, from the contracted configuration towards the lengthened configuration to enable the elongate clamping member to protrude through the aperture and to engage the articles in a clamping manner. |
| US08690501B2 |
Low-profile wheel chock assembly
A wheel chock body for a wheel chock that has low elevational profile. The low profile of a wheel chock allows it to be positioned under a vehicle the rocker panel of which has its lower edge only 148 mm (5.82 inches) above the surface upon which the vehicle's tire rests, so that the installed chock height is reduced to 47.6 mm (1.87 inches) under the components of the vehicle's body. |
| US08690497B2 |
Handle and attachments for right angle drill
A power tool can utilize a handle that engages with a large portion of the housing and can distribute the stresses incurred by the handle over a larger area. The handle of the power tool can be a stick handle or a guard handle. The handle may be utilized to position sensors therein at positions that are remote from the working bit of the power tool. Accessory handles, such as a bail handle and a side handle, can be mounted to a single set of machined passages on the housing. |
| US08690492B2 |
Ball end mill
In the tip section of an end mill body, a plurality of end cutting edges are formed. In the outer peripheral section of the end mill body, a plurality of peripheral cutting edges are formed. Some of the plurality of end cutting edges are long end cutting edges. The angle which is formed by the straight line that connects the axis to a peripheral cutting edge continuous with a long end cutting edge and by the straight line that connects the axis to a peripheral cutting edge continuous with the end cutting edge positioned in forward of the long end cutting edge in the end mill rotation direction, is larger than the angle which is formed by the tangent lines at the inner ends of the long end cutting edge and the end cutting edge positioned in forward of the long end cutting edge in the end mill rotation direction. |
| US08690488B2 |
Air distribution for an air seeder
An air distribution apparatus has a manifold body, and ports defined through walls thereof, with a delivery conduit connected to each port. A port valve is configured to connect and disconnect the delivery conduit to the interior of the manifold body. A supply conduit delivers a product air stream with agricultural products entrained therein to the interior of the manifold body. The supply conduit extends vertically up from the manifold to a curved elbow and then extends horizontally from the elbow. An exhaust orifice is defined in the inner radius of the elbow. When an exhaust valve is open, a selected flow of pressurized air flows from the supply conduit through the exhaust orifice. The port valve and exhaust valve are controlled such that when the port valve closes, the exhaust valve opens. The exhaust air can be directed into the delivery conduits to clear product therefrom. |
| US08690484B2 |
Sheathed cable
A cable bolt comprising a tension member having a first end and a second end. A rotatable collar is positioned on the tension member and is rotatable relative to the tension member. An elongate sheath, having a first end and a second end, is disposed over at least a portion of the tension member and secured to the rotatable collar. A method of securing an anchor in a structure is also disclosed. |
| US08690483B2 |
Method for assembling tendons
A tendon is assembled in a horizontal orientation using connectors or by welding at a weld station on a barge or other vessel located at or near the installation site of a tension leg platform. During assembly, the tendon is pulled away from the assembly vessel and tensioned by a tug or offshore work vessel. When fully assembled, the tendon may be up-ended in a manner similar to a wet-towed tendon, and then either pre-installed using floats or passed over to a TLP which is on-site and ready to receive tendons. |
| US08690475B2 |
Compaction apparatus and associated compactor vehicle
A compaction apparatus includes a removable plate configured to at least partially cover an outermost arcuate surface of a wheel of a compactor vehicle. The plate defines a plurality of ports, each port being configured to receive at least a portion of a base of a compactor wheel projection. |
| US08690473B2 |
Stress concentration free spline profile
A system for efficient torque transmission, consisting of at least one driving member and at least one driven member, which uses a complementing spline profile having almost nil stress concentration which enhances the overall torque transmission capacity of a shaft with a given diameter. |
| US08690472B2 |
Orientation of interfacing projections
A method of joining a first component to a second component, the method comprising preparing the first component by forming an array of elongate projections on a bond surface of the component, each projection having a centerline, a tip, and a base. The centerline at the tip of each projection is oriented at an angle with respect to the normal to the bond surface at its base, and the angular orientation of the tip centerlines varies across the array of projections. Next, the first component and a flexible layer are brought together so as to embed the projections in the flexible layer before hardening the flexible layer to form the second component. Also, a joint so formed. |
| US08690466B2 |
Wiper of perforated sheet metal/expanded metal
The invention relates to a wiper for wiping a cosmetics applicator upon withdrawing the same from a storage chamber filled with a cosmetic to be applied, comprising a wiper section and a holding section for fixing the wiper on a storage container, wherein, at least in some areas between the wiper section and the holding section, a functional section is disposed having a screen structure of several passage openings that are disposed immediately next to one another, which connects the storage chamber with the wiper antechamber. |
| US08690464B2 |
Marker for optical mark response forms
A writing instrument is disclosed that can enhance the speed and accuracy for a respondent using an optical machine response form. This writing instrument includes at least two reservoirs for dispensing two independent fluids with different optical reflectivity, whereby an application of the second fluid on top of a layer marked with the first fluid of the response form, modifies the digital response from the optical machine. |
| US08690457B2 |
Optical connector
An optical connector has a base, the base includes a least one first slot thereon, and the base further includes at least one optical component, a circuit board, a signal transforming integrated circuit (IC), and a plurality of connecting terminals therein. The circuit board electrically connects to the optical component, the signal transforming IC, and the connecting terminals. The first slot is used to connect with an external wire, an optical receiving portion of the optical component receives optical signal which is sent from the wire, and the received optical signal is sent to the signal transforming IC to transform the optical signal into electronic signal. Finally, optical connector sends the transformed electronic signal externally through the connecting terminals. Therefore, optical signal transmission facilitates the optical connector to upgrade transmitting rate, and compatibility of the optical connector can be ensured by transforming the optical signal into electronic signal. |
| US08690454B2 |
Optical connector
The optical connector in accordance with an embodiment comprises a ferrule for holding a built-in fiber to be coupled to a coated optical fiber of an optical cord, a first housing for containing the ferrule, a second housing arranged behind the first housing, and a sheath pressing member and a securing member which are mounted to the second housing. The sheath pressing member presses a sheath of the optical cord against the second housing. The securing member secures a tension fiber of the optical cord to the second housing so as to contain the sheath pressing member. |
| US08690452B2 |
Cage for roller bodies
A cage for roller bodies, for example axial bearings or flat guides, which is approximately W-shaped in the longitudinal cross-section, having side walls forming W-shaped limbs and webs connecting them, between which the roller bodies are accommodated. The profile of the webs is suitable for limiting the freedom of movement of the roller bodies to at least two degrees of freedom. Furthermore, the profile of the webs is designed such that the freedom of movement of the roller bodies can be limited in at least one additional degree of freedom. |
| US08690451B2 |
Cage for a rolling bearing, comprising guiding means
A cage for a rolling bearing which has pocket-shaped recesses for receiving rolling bodies and at least one guiding means for guiding the cage. The at least one guiding means is detachably connected to the cage. Thus, by design, the structure designed for the guiding of the cage is simple, economical and flexible, and suitable for all kinds of different cage shapes and dimensions. |
| US08690449B2 |
Wheel bearing apparatus
A wheel bearing apparatus has a protecting cover formed from non-magnetic material with a substantially dish-shaped configuration. A cylindrical fitting portion is adapted to be press-fit onto the inner circumference of the inner-side end of the outer member. A disc-shaped shielding portion extends radially inward from the fitting portion, via a radially tapered portion. A bottom portion extends from the shielding portion, via a stepped portion. A flat relief portion is formed between the radially tapered portion and the shielding portion. The relief portion is parallel with the shielding portion. The relief portion is set slightly back from the shielding portion toward the radially tapered portion. An elastic member is integrally adhered to the outer circumference of the radially tapered portion. The elastic member elastically contacts with the inner circumference of the inner-side end of the outer member. |
| US08690447B2 |
Ball roller bearing, in particular for absorbing combined radial and axial loads
A ball roller bearing, which has an outer and inner bearing ring with a groove-shaped raceways and ball rollers, which roll between the bearing rings in the raceways. The rollers are held at distances from each other in the circumferential direction by a bearing cage and which have a width that is dimensioned larger than the radial distance between the inside and the outside of the bearing rings. The raceways are divided into two segments by an axially centered annular groove such that a first ball roller rolls on two first diagonally opposed track segments and a second ball roller rolls on two second diagonally opposed track segments of the bearing rings. Both bearing rings are single-piece components, and the bearing cage is formed by two identical double prong-type cages acting independently of each other. The bearing is filled with the ball rollers by an axial tilt cam assembly method. |
| US08690445B2 |
Rolling bearing arrangement
A rolling bearing arrangement, which has at least one angular contact rolling bearing arranged within a housing and at least one lash compensation element that is supported axially in one direction on the housing and is capable of being biased against a bearing ring of the angular contact rolling bearing with the bearing ring being axially movable relative to the housing, and a U-shaped ring which has two radially opposing legs directed in an axial direction. The U-shaped ring rendering the lash compensation element radially immovable by positive engagement while being guided on the bearing ring of the angular contact rolling bearing for axial displacement relative to the bearing ring, and the axial section of the bearing ring projecting axially between the legs of the ring profile. |
| US08690441B2 |
Wheel bearing device for motor vehicles
A wheel bearing device for a motor vehicle, having an inner ring arrangement, formed for rotationally fixed reception of a first rotary partner, particularly an axle stump, or a shaft, an outer ring arrangement, which is connected and/or connectable and rotationally fixed with a second rotary partner, a multitude of rolling elements, which roll between the inner ring arrangement and the outer ring arrangement, so that inner ring arrangement and outer ring arrangement and/or the rotary partners are rotatable against each other, and an electric sensor device, which, using mechanical contact, is arranged and/or formed for detecting an operating status of the wheel bearing device. The sensor device has a stationary sensor element and a rotating sensor element, which can work together to form the mechanical contact. One of the sensor elements is connected with the inner ring arrangement without the interposition of the first rotary partner. |
| US08690431B2 |
Packaging with lines of weakness
The present invention provides a package (10) comprising an outer film layer (32) and at least one inner film layer (34,36), the inner and outer film layers being mutually laminated. The package also comprises a pair of mutually spaced lines of weakness (20) in at least the outer film layer, and means (22) for initiating tearing of the film layers. The lines of weakness and tear initiation means are disposed such that activation of the tear initiation means causes controlled tearing of all the film layers along the lines of weakness. The package is particularly suitable for block products such as chocolate bars. |
| US08690421B2 |
Apparatus and a method for measuring the body core temperature for elevated ambient temperatures
The invention relates to an apparatus (10) for measuring a temperature of the core of a body for elevated ambient temperatures, comprising a heat stream sensor (14) having a surface adapted to be positioned in contact with a surface S of the body for detecting a body's inwards heat stream, said sensor being thermally insulated on all its other surfaces from the surroundings, a cooling element (15) for cooling the heat stream sensor, a heat buffer (13) being thermally insulated from surroundings and being arranged in a heat conducting communication with the cooling element, a control unit (19) for switching on the cooling element for compensating the body's inwards heat stream and a temperature sensor (20) for measuring the temperature of the body surface. |
| US08690418B2 |
Method of mixing
A method of mixing including providing a flexible container which comprises at least two components, assembling the components from outside the flexible container to form a centrally disposed magnetic driven shaft with at least one impeller, whereby the integrity of the flexible container is maintained, filling the flexible container having the centrally disposed magnetic driven shaft with one or more ingredients of the contents to be mixed; engaging a magnetic element of the centrally disposed magnetic driven shaft with an external magnetic drive element; analyzing the contents of the flexible container using at least one sensor or a sampling line on the flexible container; and draining the contents of the flexible container through a drain port at the bottom of the flexible container. |
| US08690415B2 |
Optical display element composed of selectively illuminable concentric rings
An optical display element (10) made up of selectively illuminatable concentric rings (14) is provided, in which the rings (14) are obtained by the light exit surface (20) of a respective optical waveguide body (18). Each optical waveguide body (18) has a light entry surface (22) which couples light in from an associated light source (24) which is adapted to be selectively activated. The light entry surface (22), as related to the common axis (12), has a larger radial extent than the light exit surface (20). Further, the optical waveguide bodies (18) have directly radially adjacent light-blocking side surfaces (30). Owing to this configuration, it is solely the optical waveguide bodies (18) which determine the geometry of the concentric rings (14). Since the optical waveguide bodies (18) can be manufactured with high precision, the intended close tolerances are obtained. In this way, radial distances between the rings (14) of only approximately 0.2 mm or less can be achieved. |
| US08690414B2 |
Display device with light guide element overlapping peripherial display region of display panel
A plurality of display panels include a display region and a frame region. The plurality of display panels include first and second display panels adjoining each other; the frame region of the first display panel is overlapped by a side face of the second display panel so that an angle defined by viewer-side surfaces is more than 0° but less than 180°; first and second light guide elements are disposed on the viewer's side of peripheral display regions; the light guide elements have incident and outgoing faces and a plurality of light guiding portions; the distance between the incident and outgoing faces increases away from the peripheral display region toward the frame region; the volume of the first light guide element is larger than that of the second light guide element; and the outgoing faces of the first and second light guide elements are covered by a functional film. |
| US08690406B2 |
Lighting device and method of generating output illumination
The invention relates to a lighting device for generating output illumination having at least one directional characteristic. The lighting device includes at least one light-emitting device and at least one optical element disposed in an optical path of the light-emitting device. The lighting device also includes a screen-like member for changing at least one physical property of light passing therethrough and an optical device for generating an intermediate image on the screen-like member. The screen-like member and the optical device are located in the optical path between the light-emitting device and the optical element projecting the intermediate image. |
| US08690404B2 |
Headlamp LED lighting device and headlamp
Disclosed is a headlamp LED lighting device including: a box 10 for accommodating a circuit board on which a circuit for lighting LEDs 130 is mounted, the box being fitted into and mounted to a rear opening 110b of a headlamp case 110; a first connector 40 which is disposed on a side of the box 10 fitted into and mounted to the rear opening 110b, the side facing towards an inside of the headlamp case 110, for connecting to the circuit board, and which is connected to the LEDs 130, for supplying electric power to the LEDs; and a second connector 50 disposed on another side of the box 10 fitted into and mounted to the rear opening 110b, for connecting to the circuit board and for supplying electric power to the circuit board, the other side facing towards an outside of the headlamp case 110. |
| US08690398B2 |
Vertically adjustable cubicle lamp
A vertically adjustable cubicle lamp may be suspended on two vertical rods configured to grip the upper edge of a cubicle wall. The lamp may be vertically positioned and secured through a frictional fit, a mechanical interface, or a wirelessly controlled traction motor. Lamp intensity may be controlled through a microprocessor. |
| US08690390B1 |
Lamp and fan model
The present disclosure relates to a lamp and fan design to generate the comfort and freshness feeling in a room, wherein the lamp and fan is portable and has a lampshade which is not fixed to the lamp but rather remains mobile based on sustainability principles by favoring the arrangement of said lampshade at a variable height relative to the fan. |
| US08690389B2 |
Illumination module
A light emitting diode (LED) module is provided that includes a base and a cover. Circuitry is provided on the base. An LED array is provided on the base and is coupled to the circuitry, which in an embodiment may convert AC line voltage to DC voltage. The LED module can be configured to take up minimal space while providing desirable light output. |
| US08690388B2 |
Light emitting diode cup light
A light emitting diode (LED) cup light includes a base, a substrate, a LED light source and a fixing structure. The base includes a frame and a carrying member. The frame is surroundingly coupled to a periphery of the carrying member. The carrying member has a through hole. The substrate is disposed on the carrying member of the base. The LED light source is disposed on the substrate. The fixing structure presses on substrate and is engaged with a bottom surface of the carrying member of the base through the through hole. |
| US08690385B2 |
Light-emitting electronic textile with improved light diffusion
A light-emitting electronic textile (2) comprising a flexible component carrier (3) having a plurality of light-sources (4a-c) arranged thereon; a cover textile (5) arranged to allow passage through the cover textile (5) of light emitted by the light-sources (4a-c); and a light-diffusing member (6) arranged between the light-sources (4a-c) and the cover textile (5). The light-diffusing member (6) comprises a layered structure formed by a plurality of light-diffusing layers (12a-c; 16a-b; 19a-c), wherein adjacent light-diffusing layers in the layered structure are spaced apart at least in portions of the light-diffusing member (6) corresponding to positions of the light-sources (4a-c). |
| US08690382B2 |
Gradient optics for even light distribution of led light sources
Gradient optics for even light distribution of LED light sources. In an aspect, an apparatus is provided for uniform distribution of light emitted from a light source. The apparatus includes a panel coupled to receive the light emitted from the light source, and gradient optics disposed on the panel, the gradient optics providing a matching transparency gradient that is aligned with the light source to evenly distribute the emitted light. In another aspect, an apparatus includes means for receiving the light emitted from the light source, and means for providing a matching transparency gradient that is aligned with the light source to evenly distribute the emitted light. |
| US08690381B2 |
Luminaire system and method
A device, kit, and method for a luminaire having a first LED module with a first length and a plurality of LEDs, said LEDs disposed at predetermined pitch. A second LED module having a second length and a plurality of LEDs, said LEDs disposed at the same pitch as the first module. Wherein said first LED module and said second LED module have at least one LED disposed one half of the pitch from an edge of the LED module which when combined provide for uniform lighting across multiple LED modules. Certain embodiments may include one or more hubs for mounting the luminaire on predetermined centers. |
| US08690378B2 |
Flashlight bezel focus lock system
Embodiments provide a flashlight with a bezel configured to be moved relative to a body of the flashlight to adjust the focus of the light. A locking assembly may be disposed within the bezel and configured to switch between an unlocked position and a locked position if the bezel is rotated with respect to the body. The locking assembly may include a ring-shaped outer component having first and second curved walls separated by a gap. The locking assembly may further include an inner component coupled with the light assembly, the inner component including a nub configured to be disposed in the gap if the locking assembly is in the unlocked position, and to radially push an outer surface of the outer component against the inner surface of the bezel if the locking assembly is in the locked position. |
| US08690376B2 |
Light attachment for inspection tool
A light assembly for an inspection tool having a mirror, the assembly comprising a housing attached to the mirror; a light member movably attached to the housing; and a power source for the light member. |
| US08690366B2 |
Vehicle outside mirror device
A vehicle outside mirror device according to the present invention is provided with a base 2, a shaft 3, a spring 10, a mirror assembly 4, and a washer 6. An annular line contact portion 50 is provided on an abutment face 35 of the washer 6 that abuts against an abutment face 33 of a mount portion 12 of the mirror assembly 4. As a result, the vehicle outside mirror device according to the present invention can prevent generation of abnormal noise further reliably and a further long period of time by means of the annular line contact portion 50. In addition, an abutment plane 301 of a rotation stop portion is provided at a shaft 3. A linear edge 601 of the rotation stop portion is provided at the washer 6. As a result, according to the vehicle outside mirror device of the present invention, the linear edge 601 of the rotation stop portion of the washer 6 is abutted against the abutment plane 301 of the rotation stop portion of the shaft 3, whereby the washer 6 is fixed to the shaft 3 and then generation of abnormal noise can be prevented further reliably and over a further long period. |
| US08690361B2 |
Case structure and optical device having such case structure
A case structure includes a covering member and a lid member. The covering member includes a main boy, a first coupling part and a first positioning part. The lid member includes a lid plate, a second coupling part and a second positioning part. The second coupling part of the lid member and the first coupling part of the covering member are engaged with each other so that the lid plate is coupled with the main body and pivotal with respect to the main body. When the lid plate is rotated to a first position, the second positioning part is interference-fitted into the first positioning part so that the lid plate is positioned with respect to the main body. |
| US08690354B2 |
Mobile electronic device with an image projector
It is a task to provide a mobile electronic device with high operability and high safety. The mobile electronic device includes an image projector that projects an image, a cabinet, an input unit that is disposed on the cabinet and detects an operation input by an operator, and a control unit that controls the operation of the image projector and the state of the input unit. The task is solved in such a manner that when a predetermined operation is detected by the input unit, the control unit stops emission of light from the image projector or reduces an amount of light emitted from the image projector. |
| US08690353B2 |
Multi-resolution display system
A multi-resolution display system including a desktop display area, a foveal projection device, a sensor, a control unit, and a manually adjustable fixture is provided. The desktop display area displays a central image and a low-resolution image. The control unit determines six-dimensional (6D) orientation information of the foveal projection device relative to the desktop display area according to a projected image detected by the sensor, so as to control the foveal projection device to project the central image within a target area on the desktop display area. The manually adjustable fixture fixes the foveal projection device on top of the desktop display area, and the movement of the manually adjustable fixture has a freedom of up to six dimensions. |
| US08690352B2 |
Method and device for projecting at least one light beam
A method for projecting at least one light beam may include lengthening at least in part a holding duration for at least one pixel with respect to at least one further pixel. |
| US08690351B2 |
Light source device and projector
A projector includes a projection lens set, a digital micro-mirror device, a prism unit, a light merging unit, a light guide unit, and a light source device. The light source device includes a laser light source and a color wheel. The laser light source is positioned in a straight optical path and generates a first light. The color wheel is positioned in the straight optical path. The first light irradiates the color wheel to generate a second light and the third light. The light merging unit merges the first, second, and third lights to generate a mixed light. The light guide unit guides the mixed light to the prism unit. The mixed light is refracted to the DMD via the prism unit, and then the refracted mixed light is reflected to the projection lens set via the DMD. |
| US08690350B2 |
Image display apparatus and information processing apparatus having the same and method of controlling image display apparatus
An image display apparatus detects a projection angle of a projection unit that projects a screen image on a screen and is capable of vertically changing the projection angle, and corrects trapezoidal distortion of the screen image according to the projection angle. The image display apparatus changes the amount and direction of trapezoidal distortion correction based on the projection angle. The image display apparatus also determines whether a projection mode is projection upward to a wall or projection to a ceiling and changes the direction of trapezoidal distortion correction for projection upward to the wall and projection to the ceiling. Specifically, for projection upward to the wall, a correction factor is positive and an upper edge portion of the screen image is compressed for correction; and for projection to the ceiling, a correction factor is negative and a lower edge portion of the screen image is compressed for correction. |
| US08690349B2 |
Oblique projection optical system and projection type display apparatus using the same
A projection type display apparatus including an oblique projection optical system having a plurality of lenses is disclosed. A lens nearest to a projection screen has a vertical effective image area through which a light flux passes. The lens is arranged at a position not including an optical axis shared by the largest number of lenses among the plurality of lenses. A flat mirror for returning the optical path is arranged between the particular lens and the projection screen at a predetermined angle to the optical axis. An enlarged image obtained by the light flux returned by the flat mirror is formed toward a display screen. |
| US08690337B2 |
Device and method for displaying an image on a VUI screen and also a main projection screen
A projector producing an imaginary input plane with high operability is provided. A projector according to an embodiment projects a VUI screen picture onto a desk, and projects a main projection screen picture to a wall. The projector includes a light receiving element. The light receiving element is arranged in a position where light emitted toward the desk (VUI screen picture) and reflected (or scattered) by an object near the desk enters. The projector calculates a position of the object based on light sensing timing by the light receiving element and light scan positions at various points in time. The projector changes a projected screen picture when it determines that object is simultaneously in contact with a plurality of portions of the VUI screen picture and at least one of contact positions moves. |
| US08690334B2 |
Projector, projection system, and control method of projector
A projector includes an image projection unit that projects an image for left eye and an image for right eye, and a transmitting unit that transmits a synchronizing signal for synchronization with switching between the image for left eye and the image for right eye. The transmitting unit is arranged to adjust a transmission direction of the synchronizing signal. |
| US08690331B2 |
Corneal hydration sensing system
A corneal hydration sensing system includes an illumination system configured to provide an illumination beam of terahertz radiation, an optical system arranged in an optical path of the illumination system to relay and direct at least a portion of the illumination beam of terahertz radiation onto a cornea of a subject and to receive at least a portion of terahertz radiation reflected from the cornea to provide a return beam of terahertz radiation, and a detection system arranged in an optical path of the return beam of terahertz radiation. The detection system is configured to provide a detection signal from detecting at least a portion of the return beam of terahertz radiation. The corneal hydration sensing system also includes a signal processing system configured to communicate with the detection system to receive the detection signal. The signal processing system processes the detection signal to provide a measure of an amount of hydration sensed in the cornea of the subject. |
| US08690330B2 |
Device for swept-source optical coherence domain reflectometry
A device for swept-source optical coherence domain reflectometry (SS OCDR) on moveable samples, particularly human eyes, for obtaining A-scans, having a measuring range according to the sample length and having a laser light source which can be adjusted by a main wave number k0 and at least one receiver for the light dissipated from the sample, wherein the sample is illuminated on the sample surface by a measurement beam having a diameter D by way of a coupling device. The light source has a spectral line width of δk<168 m−1 and the adjustment of the light source is carried out in τ<44 s/(D*k0). |
| US08690329B2 |
Fundus capturing apparatus
A fundus capturing apparatus, comprising: an irradiation unit adapted to irradiate light through an illumination light path onto a fundus of an eye to be examined; a capturing unit adapted to capture a fundus of the eye to be examined with reflection light of the light irradiated by the irradiation unit; a focus confirming unit adapted to confirm a focus state of the fundus captured by the capturing unit, the focus confirming unit being arranged on the illumination light path; a moving unit adapted to move the focus confirming unit on the illumination light path along a guide axis that is parallel to the illumination light path, in accordance with the focus state; and an advancing/retracting unit adapted to insert the focus confirming unit into the illumination light path or retract the focus confirming unit from the illumination light path by rotating it with respect to the guide axis. |
| US08690324B2 |
Method for modifying spectacle frame shape data
A method for modifying spectacle frame shape data, comprising the steps of: generating spectacle frame data by measuring the shape of a rim of a spectacle frame with a spectacle frame shape measuring apparatus, determining the principal axes of inertia of the measured shape of the rim of the spectacle frame using the rim spectacle frame data, and calculating new spectacle rim frame data expressed in the principal axes of inertia of the measured shape of the rim of the spectacle frame. |
| US08690323B2 |
Method of selecting lens design standard
A method includes preparing design variations, which include a plurality of basic design distribution groups different from each other in area-division between a distance vision area and a near vision area, and a plurality of corridor lengths different from each other. Parameters originating from prescription information, life environmental information, frame shape information and the like are input. A basic design distribution group and a corridor length are selected based on the aforesaid information. A lens design standard is obtained based on the selected basic design distribution group and corridor length. As parameters, a distance between a vertex of a rear surface of a right progressive addition lens and a vertex of a cornea of a right eye and a distance between a vertex of a rear surface of a left progressive addition lens and a vertex of a cornea of a left eye are included in setting elements. |
| US08690322B2 |
Optical article comprising an antireflective coating with a low reflection both in the ultraviolet region and in the visible region
This invention relates to an ophthalmic lens with a low reflection both in the ultraviolet region and in the visible region, comprising a substrate provided on its rear main face with a multilayered antireflective coating (3-7 layers) comprising a stack of at least one layer with a high refractive index and at least one layer with a low refractive index, having a mean reflection factor on the rear face in the visible region Rm lower than or equal to 1.15%, a mean light reflection factor on the rear face in the visible region Rv lower than or equal to 1%, a mean reflection factor RUV on the rear face between 280 nm and 380 nm, weighted by the function W(λ) defined in the ISO 13666:1998 standard, lower than 5%, for angles of incidence of 30° and 45°, the antireflective coating outer layer being a silica-based layer. The lens according to the invention does especially prevent the reflection of the UV radiation produced by light sources located behind the wearer. |
| US08690314B2 |
Transport media by application of nominal tension and enhanced tension thereto
A media transport method includes applying a nominal tension to a media extending between and in contact with a media drive roller of a drive roller assembly and a media output roller of an output roller assembly by the media output roller. The media transport method also includes advancing the media toward and away from a media support member disposed between the media drive roller and the media output roller and in contact with the media by the media drive roller. The media transport method also includes determining whether the media drive roller is in a rotating state within a predetermined time period after being in a non-rotating state by a restart period determination module and a kinematic condition exists corresponding to a non-synchronized state between rotation of the media drive roller and the media output roller by a kinetic condition determination module. |
| US08690308B2 |
Inkjet ink comprising dynamic surface tension agent
An inkjet ink comprising water, colorant, and a dynamic surface active agent at an effective concentration such that the ink has a dynamic surface tension DST1 sec at 1 second universal surface age, a dynamic surface tension DST10 sec at 10 seconds universal surface age and a dynamic surface tension DST20 min at 20 minutes universal surface age, where DST20 min is less than each of DST1 sec and DST10 sec, and the difference between DST10 sec and DST20 min is greater than 9.2 mN/m at 21° C. or the difference between DST1 sec and DST20 min is greater than 15.5 mN/m at 21° C., and wherein the static surface tension of the ink is less than 50 mN/m. Maintaining a relatively large dynamic surface tension difference between the indicated time scales yields an optical density improvement in printed images. |
| US08690303B2 |
Image forming method
An image forming method includes ejecting an ink composition including a volatile organic solvent with a solubility parameter of 20 MPa1/2 to 25 MPa1/2, acid-functionalized polymer colloid particles with a glass transition temperature of 25° C. to 85° C., and a pigment with a surface at least a part of which is coated with a polymer, onto a non-porous substrate by an ink jet method to form an image, and the absolute value of the difference between the solubility parameter of the non-porous substrate and the solubility parameter of the volatile organic solvent of the ink composition falls within 15 MPa1/2. |
| US08690299B2 |
Liquid container
A liquid container includes an air-tight liquid-storage chamber or reservoir, a movable member for agitating liquid, and a protrusion portion for supporting the movable member. The movable member and the protrusion portion are disposed in the liquid-storage chamber. The movable member includes a first end that is linearly movable along the protrusion portion and a second end that is free. |
| US08690284B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus
There is provided a liquid discharge apparatus including a liquid discharge head having a plurality of nozzles; a common chamber; a liquid chamber; a liquid supply port; and a communication channel; and a discharge control mechanism which controls the liquid discharge head to perform a discharge operation of discharging the liquid from the nozzles to the medium. The discharge control mechanism controls the liquid discharge head to perform a flushing operation, as the discharge operation, so that the liquid is discharged from a first nozzle group in a discharge mode, which is different from a discharge mode of a second nozzle group, to generate a flow of the liquid in the communication channel. |
| US08690276B2 |
Media flatness verification and preview mode
A printer and method of printing wherein a preview mode conveys media through the printer in a manner that avoids the possibility that the media can contact a print head. A hold-down system of the printer and/or media transport generates a hold-down pressure applied to the substrate media in the direction of the first media transport. A precurler unit applies a predetermined degree of curl to the substrate media. A media height sensor determines the height of the substrate media above the first media transport under the influence of the hold-down pressure. A print head array marks the substrate media with an image in the marking zone, and an actuator adjusts the relative spacing between the print head array and the first media transport. The gap between print head and the media is adjustable in view of the measurements. |
| US08690269B2 |
Device for fastening a functional unit in a furniture body
A device for fastening a functional unit in a furniture body includes a support and two retaining elements, wherein the functional unit is pre-installed on the support and the two retaining elements are installed on the furniture body, wherein the retaining elements retain the preferably elongated support at the ends, wherein one retaining element is designed as a hinge and wherein the support is pivotably connected to the retaining element installed on the furniture body. |
| US08690268B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus
A laundry treating apparatus is provided which can be manufactured easily. The laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet, a drum rotatably disposed in the cabinet configured to hold laundry therein, a front cover including a door opening to load the laundry in the drum, and at least one panel opening configured to receive a control panel therein. |
| US08690263B2 |
Method for manufacturing a toothbrush and a bristle head thereof, toothbrush obtained by said method and mould for such method
A molding process and a mold for manufacturing a toothbrush of plastic material with a resistant inner core, is disclosed. It is provided to manufacture a resistant inner core, and to introduce it into a mold cavity having opposite footprints belonging to a lower half-mold and an upper half-mold and to subsequently inject molten plastic material into the mold cavity for manufacturing at least part of the toothbrush handle. A resistant metal core is placed into a respective footprint of the lower half-mold in contact with at least two support platforms, adapted to support the core in the proximity of a central line of the mold cavity, and before the injection of structural plastic material, to couple the lower half-mold with an upper half-mold having at least one ribbing to contact with the metal core at least in a position between the support platforms and in a position opposite thereto. |
| US08690262B2 |
Heading machine having cutting unit made of disc tools
In a heading machine (1, 24) with at least one cutting unit with a rotatably mounted tool holder (10, 39) with disc tools (11, 12, 40, 41), which tool holder is connected in a pivotable manner to the machine frame, the heading machine (1, 24) has a running gear, in particular a crawler track (2), the tool holder (10, 39) is mounted rotatably on an arm (6, 26), which can be pivoted in the vertical direction and the rotational axis (9) of the tool holder (10, 39) runs transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the arm (6, 26). |
| US08690260B1 |
Mining machine automation
An automated coal mining system outfits rotating cutterhead drums with bit blocks and replaceable bit picks according to a lacing pattern. A set of strain gauges are configured to measure the mechanical forces experienced by the bit picks during coal cutting. Measurements are taken that can be processed for indications that the replaceable bit picks have encountered a boundary layer of rock during coal cutting operations, or they are working harder than necessary to cleave coal, or that a better lacing pattern is possible. A resonant microwave patch antenna is mounted on a top surface shoulder of the bit blocks to take impedance measurements of the coal face. The impedance measurements are calibrated according to indications that the replaceable bit picks have encountered a boundary layer of rock. The rotating drum sensor data is wirelessly transmitted back to the machine for analysis and control purposes. |
| US08690258B2 |
Guide structure of vehicle seatbelt
A guide structure of a vehicle seatbelt includes a belt guide. The belt guide is provided at one of a left corner and a right corner defined by a left side frame, a right side frame, and an upper frame. The one corner faces a belt pulled out from a seatbelt device. The left side frame and the right side frame extend vertically. The upper frame connects an upper end of the left side frame to an upper end of the right side frame. The belt guide protrudes upwardly with respect to the upper frame and forwardly with respect to the left side frame and the right side frame so that when the belt is placed on an occupant who sits on the seat, a portion of the belt that is placed on a shoulder of the occupant is guided by the belt guide. |
| US08690253B2 |
Seat assembly having a moveable head restraint assembly
A seat assembly having a seat back, a support post disposed on the seat back, and a head restraint assembly disposed on the support post. The head restraint assembly includes a rear portion moveably disposed on the support post and a front portion pivotally disposed on the rear portion. The front portion pivots with respect to the rear portion independent of movement of the rear portion along the support post. |
| US08690250B2 |
Infant carrier apparatus having multiple configurations of use and its operating method
An infant carrier apparatus comprises a seat assembly, a backrest assembly including a first and second backrest frame, and a backrest holding mechanism. The first backrest frame includes first side and transverse segments, the second backrest frame includes second side and transverse segments, the first side segment being coupled with the seat assembly via a first pivot point. The backrest holding mechanism can be movably assembled between the first and second transverse segment, and include a latch element movable between a first and second position. The first position of the latch element causes the backrest holding mechanism to be in locking engagement with the first transverse segment to prevent rotation of the backrest assembly relative to the seat assembly, and the second position of the latch element removes the locking engagement of the backrest holding mechanism to permit rotation of the backrest assembly relative to the seat assembly. |
| US08690247B2 |
Reclinable seating apparatus and method
In various embodiments, self-adjusting reclinable seating is disclosed. When the user applies a force to the seating by shifting his or her center of gravity, the backrest and seat portions of the seating move in response to the force to recline the seating. The user can return the seating to an upright position by again shifting his or her center of gravity. Such a configuration eliminates the need for manual recline controls. The seating is further configured to continuously vary the angle of the seat and backrest portions relative to the ground as the user moves. In particular, vertical distance between the front of the seat and the ground increases as the backrest reclines. Continuously varying the angle of both the seat and the backrest portions of the seating relative to the ground may improve a user's seating comfort, for example, by decreasing or eliminating the user's need to shift position on the seat when reclined. |
| US08690246B2 |
Reclining seat
A reclining seat comprising a seat base (10) and a backrest (11), wherein the seat base is mounted on a support structure moveable along at least one guide path (16, 17) whereby the seat base is moveable between upright and reclined use or seating positions and a retracted state, control means being provided for controlling movement of the seat base along said at least one guide path, preferably with infinite adjustment, between said upright and reclined seating positions. |
| US08690245B2 |
Soothing apparatus and infant seat therewith
A soothing apparatus and an infant seat therewith are disclosed. The soothing apparatus includes an apparatus base, a seat base disposed on the apparatus, and a driving device including a driving part and a follower disposed on the apparatus base and the seat base oppositely. The driving part has an interfering surface with a specific profile. The follower keeps contacting the interfering surface such that the seat base is moved through the follower relative to the apparatus base in accordance with the specific profile when the interfering surface moves relative to the follower. Thereby, the soothing apparatus can provide an specific soothing motion and further provide another variant soothing motion by just creating another specific profile, so that the invention can provide a more flexible mechanism than that in the prior art. |
| US08690244B2 |
Child restraint for vehicle
A child restraint includes a base, a seat, and an anchor belt. The anchor belt holds the base in place on a passenger seat of a vehicle. The seat mounts on the base and supports a child or infant for travel in the vehicle above the base. |
| US08690239B2 |
Chair-type massage apparatus
The chair-type massage apparatus is characterized in that, when placed with its back facing a room wall, it can be located near the wall and, when its seat is made movable back-and-forth, the leg kneading device mounted at the front of the seat can be used without being obstructed by the back-and-forth movement.The chair-type massage apparatus 1 comprises the seat 2, the base frame 6, and the backrest 3 reclinably mounted at the rear of the seat. During reclining, the upper end of the backrest moves vertically along one vertical line. The leg kneading device is mounted at the front of the seat. The base frame has the seat moving mechanism 15 for moving the seat at least in the front-rear direction, and the seat has the position changing mechanism 16 for effecting positional change of the leg kneading device relative to the seat while maintaining the relative distance. |
| US08690236B2 |
Reconfigurable collapsible chair
An apparatus includes a frame having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. A first membrane is coupled to the frame and includes a seat portion with first and second openings. A second membrane is couplable to the first membrane and/or the frame and is configured to be moved between a first position in which the second membrane covers the first and second openings, and a second position in which the first and second openings are not covered by the second membrane. The frame and the first membrane are configured to support a user in a seated position when the second membrane is in the first position and the frame is expanded, the first and second openings are each configured to receive a leg of a user when the second membrane is in the second position and the frame is expanded to support the user in a standing position. |
| US08690235B2 |
Device for operating sunroof in vehicle
An operating device for a sunroof of a vehicle may include a motor housing disposed at a rear side of a roof panel and a mounting space, an operating motor disposed at one side of the motor housing and a worm inserted into the mounting space, a gear unit rotatably disposed in the mounting space engaged with the worm and is rotated by the operating motor, a glass cable connected to the gear unit and to a moving glass disposed outside of the roof panel to move the moving glass, a sun shade cable connected to the gear unit at an upper side of the glass cable and is connected to the sun shade inside the roof panel to move the sun shade, and a locking unit disposed on the motor housing corresponding to the gear unit and selectively locks the gear unit such that the cable is separately operated. |
| US08690232B2 |
Front pillar for automobile
A front pillar for an automobile includes an outer panel, an inner panel, a hollow member sandwiched between the outer and inner panels, and a reinforcing member. The outer panel has a glass attachment flange section extending along an edge of the windshield. The hollow member has a first concave section provided on an upper wall section at a terminal end of the hollow member. The first concave section is downwardly separated from the glass attachment flange section of the outer panel. The reinforcing member has a second concave section welded to the first concave section and downwardly separated from the glass attachment flange section of the outer panel. |
| US08690229B2 |
Cowl top cover and method of manufacturing the same
The invention provides a method of manufacturing a cowl top cover, which can easily adjust a reaction force of a first seal portion, and ensure sealing performance in a lip part. A main body cavity is formed in a part of a cavity by moving a slid core forward in a guide hole and making it contact with a second die. A cover main body is molded by injecting a synthetic resin into the main body cavity. A slide core is moved backward by a predetermined distance in the guide hole so that the thickness of a lip part in a lip protrusion becomes smaller than that of the lip part in a second seal portion. The lip part is molded by injecting a synthetic resin softer than that forming the cover main body into a seal portion cavity. |
| US08690228B2 |
Load bearing panel assembly
A panel assembly includes at least one reinforcing assembly made of a high strength material having a low yield to tensile strength ratio for energy absorption and reduced weight and profile. The panel assembly may be light-weight with a low profile to minimize protrusion into an opening or compartment enclosed by the panel. The panel assembly may be a floor panel assembly for a vehicle floor. The reinforcing assembly may traverse the panel such that the reinforcing assembly extends laterally, e.g., cross-vehicle, relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle body. A method of making the panel assembly may include forming the reinforcing assembly by joining a plurality of metal channel members in a nested arrangement with a plurality of welds to provide a structural assembly with good bending resistance loads imposed on the panel assembly including knee loads. The channel members may be made of a dual phase steel. |
| US08690225B2 |
Actuation mechanism for a sliding door of a motor vehicle
A door actuation mechanism for a sliding door of a motor vehicle is disclosed as having a motor driven door actuator connected to first and second actuation cables used for opening and closing the door. Both of the actuation cables has a portion extending away from the door actuator in a direction in which the respective cable moves the door. |
| US08690208B2 |
Pressure-based crash detection system incorporated in side rail
A vehicular crash sensing system includes a bumper cap for contacting a bumper. A chamber fits into a side rail attached to the bumper, the chamber being sealed by the bumper cap. A stop element limits movement of the chamber into the side rail. A pressure sensor detects an increased chamber air pressure during crushing of the chamber resulting from movement of the bumper with respect to the stop element. |
| US08690201B2 |
Gate latch
A gate latch includes a bracket including a vertical backplate, a lower plate, and an upper plate. Each of the plates is attached to and extends in the same direction away from the backplate. Each of the plates includes first and second throughholes, in which the first throughhole of the lower plate is vertically aligned with the first throughhole of upper plate, and the second throughhole of lower plate is vertically aligned with the second throughhole of the upper plate. The latch includes a rigid bolt including first, second, and third elongate portions, with the first and third elongate portions being connected together, the second and third elongate portions being connected together, and the first and second elongate portions being parallel. The first elongate portion is movably positioned in the first throughholes, and the second elongate portion is movably positioned in the second throughholes. |
| US08690199B2 |
Quick connector for fluid lines
The disclosure relates to a quick connector for fluid lines, including: a connecting piece which is adapted to be plugged in a sealing fashion into a receiving opening of a counterpart and to be lockingly engaged, via a latch, with the counterpart, the quick connector having at least one support for supporting the connecting piece on the counterpart such that it is secured against tilting. In order to provide a certain mobility of the quick connector also in the condition of locking engagement, the support can be movable relative to the connecting piece. |
| US08690198B2 |
Locking device for connectors
A connector for high amperage, AC or DC connection includes a plug and a receptacle configured to securely mate and lock with each other. Connector receptacles include a locking mechanism having a sleeve unit having a plurality of openings configured to receive a plurality of alignment members, a control unit in communication with the alignment members, and at least one extension member coupling the sleeve unit to the control unit. The control unit is configured to bias the alignment members to engage a groove in a plug in a locked position. Upon rotation of the control unit, the control unit engages the sleeve unit and allows the alignment members to freely move, thus allowing a user to connect or disconnect the plug from the receptacle. |
| US08690197B2 |
Bearing apparatus and method for an irrigation pivot structure
A bearing structure for a pivoting irrigation system apparatus having a rotatable vertical section with a plurality of annular assemblies mounted thereon. The assemblies include a plurality of components that are rotatable and non-rotatable with the rotatable vertical section so as to facilitate movement with decreased friction therebetween. |
| US08690195B2 |
Flexible element with integral outer shield and/or inner liner
A flexible bellows used in a pipe coupling includes composite convolutions having integral extensions forming one or both of an outer shield or inner liner to enhance performance of the coupling. Embodiments incorporate dampers, hangers and convolution modifications. Various embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08690193B2 |
Transporter vehicle
Rear wheel tires of a vehicle body are spaced apart from each other in the vehicle width direction. A foreign object removing device is provided between an outer tire and an inner tire of the rear wheels on one side of the vehicle for removing foreign objects between the tires. The foreign object removing device includes a bar-shaped member inserted in a suspended state between the tires, and a shoe provided in a lower end side of the bar-shaped member to collide with foreign objects such as earth and sand, and stones getting in between the tires for flicking out the foreign objects from between the tires. The shoe is replaceably attached to the lower end side of the bar-shaped member by using a bolt. In a case where the shoe wears down, only the shoe is replaced. |
| US08690187B2 |
Vehicle safety device
A vehicle safety device includes a vehicle seat, an inflator, a far-side airbag and a tension tether. The far-side airbag is configured to inflate and deploy forward and upward with respect to the vehicle seat from a seatback inner side portion by a gas being supplied into the far-side airbag. The far-side airbag protrudes higher than a headrest when the far-side airbag is in an inflated and deployed state. The tension tether extends upward from a predetermined portion of an upper end portion of a seatback frame and hooks around the headrest from behind the vehicle seat in the inflated and deployed state. The tension tether extends from an upper surface of the headrest toward an upper surface of the far-side airbag, and further extends toward the seatback frame on a vehicle inside with respect to the far-side airbag in the inflated and deployed state. |
| US08690185B2 |
Airbag device
An object is to prevent an airbag from bursting out toward an occupant and to inflate and deploy the airbag in a stable manner. An inner bag (30A) inflates with gas supplied from an inflator (3). An outer bag (20) inflates with the gas supplied through a flow port in the inner bag (30A). A restriction member (40A) restricts the movement of a front surface of the outer bag (20) in the occupant direction. An opening (41) in the restriction member (40A) is engaged with the outer circumference of the inflated inner bag (30A) and moves in the occupant direction along the outer circumference of the inner bag (30A) in accordance with the inflation of the outer bag (20). The restriction member (40A) moves the front surface of the outer bag (20) in accordance with the movement of the opening (41). |
| US08690182B2 |
Strut for snowmobile
A snowmobile ski comprises a body having a pair of rails laterally spaced from one another and interconnected at a tip. A spindle assembly connects the ski to suspension elements of the snowmobile. The spindle assembly has a pair of legs connected to respective rails to allow snow to pass between the legs. |
| US08690174B2 |
Geared motor for an active roll stabilizer
A slewing motor for an active roll stabilizer, which can be connected by its drive to one stabilizer half, and which can be connected on the stator side to another stabilizer half of a divided stabilizer. A torsion element, whose rotational rigidity is lower than the rotational rigidity of the stabilizer, is effectively arranged between the drive and the one stabilizer half. |
| US08690169B2 |
Detachable roller means and movable bag or case
The present invention relates to a detachable roller means and a movable bag or case having said detachable roller means, said roller means comprises a roller seat (1) and a roller assembly, which are detachably connected to each other. The roller seat has a penetration opening (1-1) and a guide in which a spring-pretensioned button plate (2-10) is guided. Said button plate has a button arm (2-3), by means of which the button plate is displaceable along the guide. The roller assembly has a roller holder and a roller (3). The roller holder is provided on its upper side with a lug boss (2-5) and a shaft (2-8) projecting from the lug boss. The shaft is provided with an upper stop (2-9). In a mounting status, the lug boss is abutted against the bottom of the roller seat tightly and, viewed in the insertion direction of the shaft, the button plate is engaged behind the upper stop in a spring-pretensioned manner. The button plate can be brought out of engagement with the upper stop in opposite to the spring pretension. The roller means according to the present invention is not only permanently firm, but also can be mounted and detached easily. |
| US08690159B2 |
Spiral wound bound seal
A brush seal is disclosed that may include a spring-loaded seal arrangement configured to conform to a wide range of sealing diameters along the length of a rotor of a turbomachine. In particular, the brush seal may be manufactured with free ends configured to overlap and provide a finite amount of radially expandable/contractible play and yet maintain an effective seal. Consequently, the same brush seal design may be used in a range of locations along a rotor length without the need to specifically manufacture separate brush seals for each variance in dimension. |
| US08690158B2 |
Axially angled annular seals
A seal member for effecting a seal preventing fluid flow in an axial direction through an annular space formed between a rotatable shaft and a stator structure. The seal member includes a plurality of flexible seal strips extending radially through the annular space and having a radially outer end supported to the stator structure and a radially inner end defining a tip portion extending widthwise in the axial direction for engaging in sliding contact with a peripheral surface of the rotatable shaft. The seal strips are mounted to the stator structure with the tip portions of the seal strips at an angle to the axial direction. Each of the tip portions are formed with a curvature in a radially extending plane between a leading edge and a trailing edge of each seal strip. |
| US08690155B2 |
Pathology game and method of playing same
A pathology board game includes a colored game board comprising (a) an illustration of the human circulatory system comprising organs and limbs; and (b) a colored circle or wheel comprising a plurality of diseases, each disease having its own number and color; a plurality of treatment/remedy cards, wherein each card comprises at least one treatment or remedy for a disease and is colored to match a corresponding disease on the colored circle; and a plurality of preventative cards, wherein each card comprises at least one preventative modality to prevent a disease and is colored to match a corresponding disease on the colored circle. |
| US08690154B2 |
Safe and novel, lightweight hand-grip systems for manually spinning gaming wheels
A hand grip system is provided for manually gripping and spinning gaming wheels or rotatable gaming apparatus. A rotatable gaming wheel with a plurality of annularly arrayed stop position means may be affixed near an outer board diameter of the wheel. At least one sector identification member may be used to randomly select a sector of a game board base of the wheel. An annular graspable member may be located above at least one of the annularly arrayed stop position means so as not to inhibit function of the sector identification member as the rotatable gaming wheel is spun. |
| US08690153B2 |
System for directing sheet articles in arrival from an input line towards two output lines
A system (1) for directing sheet articles (2) in arrival from an input line (L1) towards two output lines has first gripping and drawing devices for gripping and drawing the sheet articles (2) for release in a directing region (37). The sheet articles are then deviated along a first (D1) or a second (D2) orientating direction. Second gripping and drawing devices move the sheet articles (2) along the direction region. First and second counter-rotating pairs of rollers face one another and grip the sheet articles to move them towards the second (5) and third (6) gripping and drawing devices, all the devices and rollers being arranged and operating with respect to one another such that during transit through the directing region (37) the advancing sheet articles (2) are subjected to constant gripping by at least one device or one pair of rollers. |
| US08690145B2 |
Image forming system and image forming device
Disclosed is an image forming system including an image forming device which includes a paper feeding tray, a print section which performs printing to papers fed from the paper feeding tray and a control section which controls so as to feed the printed papers to a post-processing device as a booklet main body to be book-bound, and the post-processing device which carries out ring-binding processing to the fed papers and book-binds a booklet, and the control section controls so as to feed a front cover paper, a back cover paper, papers for binding of the booklet to a ring-binding process section of the post-processing device along with the booklet main body, and a paper feeding order is in an order of the back cover paper, the papers for binding, the front cover paper and the booklet main body. |
| US08690143B2 |
Turn-aside for post processing device when maximum capacity exceeded
A post-processing device includes a processing tray on which sheets are to be stacked, a transport portion for transporting, a sheet introduced through an introduction port, a turn-aside portion for turning aside the sheet to delay arrival of the sheet at the processing tray, and a delivery mechanism for delivering the sheets stacked on the processing tray to a delivery tray on a boundary between copies. When a remaining number of sheets of one copy unstacked on the processing tray exceeds a maximum number of stacked sheets that is an amount of sheets stackable on the processing tray, the delivery mechanism delivers a sheet stack of the one copy a plurality of times so as to avoid delivery of only one sheet on a last page of the one copy, and the turn-aside portion turns aside a sheet on a first page to be stacked after delivering the sheet bundle. |
| US08690137B2 |
Fixture for selectably holding dissimilar workpieces
A fixture for selectably supporting a number of dissimilar workpieces. The fixture includes a frame with one or more rotatable workpiece tooling assemblies. Each workpiece tooling assembly has multiple faces to which is mounted workpiece support tooling. The workpiece support tooling may be designed to support dissimilar workpieces, such that a single fixture may support any of a given number of workpieces by simply rotating the workpiece tooling assembly or assemblies until the corresponding support tooling is properly positioned. A locking assembly may be provided to releasably secure each workpiece tooling assembly in the various support orientations that coincide with each of its faces. |
| US08690135B2 |
Chuck and a method for supporting an object
There is provided a chuck that includes a supporting element that is connected to a closing element. An upper surface of the supporting element includes a chemically etched zone and an un-etched zone. The chemically etched zone includes multiple upper areas that are surrounded by trenches. At least one pressurized gas conduit is formed in the supporting element so as to enable pressurized gas provided to a lower surface of the supporting element to propagate through the trenches. The un-etched zone is shaped in response to a shape of an object to be placed on the supporting element. The un-etched zone reduces pressurized gas leakage from the un-etched zone and the closing element reduces pressurized gas leakage from a lower surface of the supporting element when the object is placed on the chuck in alignment with the un-etched zone and pressurized gas is provided to the chuck. |
| US08690130B2 |
Structured sheet cross-flow distribution media
A structured sheet cross flow media is formed with a first corrugated sheet having corrugations defining flutes angled in a first direction, a second corrugated sheet defining flutes angled in a second direction, and an interstitial planar sheet disposed between the first and second corrugated sheets. The interstitial planar sheet traps the flow of fluid or gas, such as air, entering one end of the media block within opposing flutes until the end of the interstitial sheet is reached, whereupon the fluid or gas can disperse between the intersecting flutes of the first and second sheets to provide a controlled dispersal of the fluid or gas. In one embodiment, the interstitial sheet terminates at an intermediate height in the media block to define the width of dispersion of air bubbles entering at a single source point. |
| US08690127B2 |
Vehicle lift system accessory
An accessory that assists in operating vehicle lift systems, particularly an accessory that assists in the operation of a crank wheel of a vehicle lift system. The accessory is portable and quickly and easily assembled to the vehicle lift system. The accessory is activated using a power source, for example a cordless power source such as a cordless power drill. The crank wheel is engaged by the accessory and operated to raise and lower the platform component of the vehicle lift system. |
| US08690121B2 |
Differential screw assembly for varying torque for valve
An assembly for actuating a valve that is in a differential screw assembly when the valve is in a portion of its stroke that experiences high resistance. The actuating assembly is selectively changeable into a direct drive configuration when the valve is in a lower resistance portion of its stroke. A sliding sleeve moves axially within the actuating assembly and has a profile that is strategically dimensioned to change the actuating assembly configuration. |
| US08690120B2 |
Fluid transfer device
A disposable device for the sterile transfer of fluids, such as liquids or gases, includes a body, a bore formed through at least a portion of the interior of the body, and a linearly moveable plunger contained within the bore. The body is formed from a rotating section and a stationary section. Partial rotation of the rotating section around a portion of the stationary section and the plunger drives the plunger linearly within the bore, opening and closing the device. The plunger includes at least a first and a second opening, and a fluid channel in the interior of the plunger connecting the first and second openings forming a fluid pathway to downstream components when the device is open. A termination component at one end of the plunger connects to a downstream component. A flange at one end of the body attaches to an upstream component. When the device is closed, the upstream end of the plunger is in alignment with the upstream flange of the body, forming a steamable sterilized in place face and a sterile barrier. |
| US08690118B2 |
Solenoid actuated device and methods
A solenoid actuated device such as a fuel injector includes an actuator body having a plurality of body pieces, and a single-pole solenoid actuator assembly positioned at least partially within the actuator body. The single-pole solenoid actuator assembly includes a one-piece compound armature housing having a load carrying component clamped between the first body piece and the second body piece, and a flux carrying component. The load carrying component includes a high structural strength and a low flux permeability, and the flux carrying component includes a low structural strength and a high flux permeability. A method of making a solenoid actuated device includes placing an armature at a sliding radial air gap with a flux carrying component of a one-piece compound armature housing, and establishing a structural load path by placing a load carrying component of the compound armature housing between a first actuator body piece and a second actuator body piece. A method of operating a single-pole solenoid actuator device includes supporting a flux carrying component of a one-piece compound armature housing with a load carrying component of the compound armature housing, channeling magnetic flux across a sliding air gap between a flux carrying component and the armature, and channeling a clamping load between a first actuator body piece and a second actuator body piece through the load carrying component of the compound armature housing. |
| US08690116B2 |
Base for a blender
A base for a blender housing a motor and including controls for operation of the blender. The base includes an air intake, an air exhaust, and a baffle, wherein the air exhaust and baffle are formed as a part of the bottom of the blender base and act to reduce the sound emitted by the blender. The bottom of the blender base includes an internal cavity defined partially by a support flange where heated air is exhausted. The air is then forced to change directions before exiting through exhaust ports. |
| US08690115B2 |
Leaf spring bracket
A system for mounting a catalytic converter of an exhaust system to an internal combustion engine includes a bracket adapted to fix the catalytic converter to the engine. A strap is adapted to circumferentially extend about a portion of the catalytic converter and clamp the catalytic converter to the bracket. The bracket includes a seat, a mounting pad and a compliant portion interconnecting the seat and the mounting pad. The seat supports a portion of the catalytic converter opposite the strap. The compliant portion includes a slot extending adjacent to the seat to reduce the stiffness of the bracket and allow the bracket to deflect during thermal expansion of the catalytic converter. |
| US08690114B2 |
Adjustable suspension system for off-road vehicle
A support assembly includes a first support frame having a first bearing surface, and a second support frame spaced a vertical distance from the first support frame. A biasing member is connected to the first support frame and includes a first end and a second end. The first end bears against the first bearing surface. An adjustment assembly is connected to the second support frame and is adjustable with respect to the second support frame. The second end of the biasing member bears against the adjustment assembly. |
| US08690113B1 |
Apparatus and method for installation of an affixation point
An adjustable affixation point apparatus comprising an anchor means for providing secure engagement with a wall; a fastener adapted to releasably engage the anchor means and to retain an extension arm between the head and the wall; the extension arm having a channel adapted to slidingly receive the fastener; at least one engagement means for enhancing the frictional contact among the members; a hanger attached to the distal end providing an affixation point which can be mounted into a wall near a desired location, then a sliding and rotational action of the extension arm relative to the allows a user to adjust the hangar to any point within a 360 degree radius and extending outwardly to any point along the length of the arm and to fix the hanger in a desired location. |
| US08690112B2 |
Video display device with screen angle adjustment mechanism
A video image display apparatus is configured such that a monitor case includes a first gear unit that rotates according to a screen angle of the monitor case, and a clutch mechanism includes: a first torsion coil spring; a second gear unit that is meshed with the first gear unit, wherein a cylindrical portion is fitted to one end of the first torsion coil spring so as to rotate; a cam unit that rotates with a cylindrical portion being fitted to the other end of the first torsion coil spring; and an engagement unit that restricts the rotation of the cam unit, wherein when the screen angle of the monitor case is changed in a near direction, the restriction for the rotation of the cam unit by the engagement unit is removed, and the second gear unit, the first torsion coil spring, and the cam unit are rotated as being interlocked with one another, and when the screen angle of the monitor case is changed in a push-in direction, the restriction for the rotation of the cam unit by the engagement unit is not removed, and only the second gear unit is rotated through the first torsion coil spring. |
| US08690108B2 |
Rail vehicle
A rail vehicle has at least one vehicle antenna of a train safety system directed toward the track. To increase resistance to interference, the rail vehicle is configured such that the body of the rail vehicle and an axle arranged in the region of an end of the rail vehicle are electrically connected by way of a capacitive connection and the at least one vehicle antenna is arranged at a greater distance from the end of the rail vehicle than the axle that is electrically connected to the body. |
| US08690106B1 |
Ejector driven flow control for reducing velocity deficit profile downstream of an aerodynamic body
A system and method for reducing a velocity deficit from an aerodynamic body is disclosed. An air jet is injected into an ejector mixing chamber in the aerodynamic body. The air jet creates a suction effect in the ejector mixing chamber, which suctions boundary layer air from a perforated surface in at least one side of the aerodynamic body into a plenum chamber and into the ejector mixing chamber. The air jet ejects the boundary layer air and the air jet from a trailing edge slot of the ejector mixing chamber. Suctioning the boundary layer air and ejecting the boundary layer air and the air jet from the trailing edge slot reduces a velocity deficit on a trailing edge of the aerodynamic body. The reduced velocity deficit and the suctioning of boundary layer air reduce noise, turbulence, blade stress, and blade deformation. |
| US08690105B2 |
Parachute
A parachute can be opened automatically without requiring manual operation. In addition, the parachute is capable of staying balanced during the course of landing. The parachute comprises: a spherical canopy, an air guide member and four assistant canopies. The air guide member is a rotation symmetrical structure with respect to the central axis, each of the cylindrical members is also a rotation symmetrical structure with respect to the assistant central axis, and the assistant canopies are also symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis, so as to maintain the parachute in a stable and balanced state when the parachute is falling. |
| US08690103B2 |
Method and apparatus for converting aircraft from commercial to military freight service
A method and apparatus for converting aircraft from civilian cargo to CRAF use includes a pallet guide attached to the cargo deck of the aircraft. The pallet guide includes a pair of L-shaped structural channel members that are arranged back-to-back and staggered longitudinally along the length of the aircraft cargo deck. The L-shaped guide members are staggered back-to-back to enable military 463 L pallets to be guided along both the port and starboard sides of the pallet guide with one row of pallets loaded transverse to the centerline and one row of pallets loaded parallel to the centerline. The pallet guide includes a third guide member comprising a substantially T-shaped body displaced laterally with respect to the L-shaped guide members. For loading and unloading standard commercial pallets, the L-shaped guide members are rotated into a retracted position below the deck height of the cargo deck. The T-shaped guide member are then be moved from a retracted position below the deck height to a deployed position to engage the edges of the commercial pallets. |
| US08690099B2 |
Aircraft and propulsion system
One embodiment of the present invention is a unique aircraft. Another embodiment is a unique propulsion system for an aircraft. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for aircraft and aircraft propulsion systems. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith. |
| US08690098B2 |
Air ejector nozzle tube for an oil heat exchanger of an aircraft engine
An ejector nozzle tube, having along its length an essentially constant, essentially oval hollow cross-section, with a leading edge nozzle, having a rounded exterior cross-section, being arranged at a flow leading-edge area of the ejector nozzle tube. The leading edge nozzle includes a plurality of grooves issuing to the top and bottom sides of the ejector nozzle tube and connecting to an interior of the ejector nozzle tube formed by the hollow profile. An aircraft engine has an optimized oil heat exchanger with at least one oil cooler disposed in a trailing-edge area of an aerofoil-type structure, with at least one flow entrance area being provided to supply ambient air to the oil cooler disposed in a flow duct. The ejector nozzle tube can be arranged downstream of the oil cooler in the flow duct. |
| US08690097B1 |
Variable-geometry rotating spiral cone engine inlet compression system and method
The present disclosure is generally directed to a system, aircraft and a method of operation of an aircraft engine including an intake portion and an exhaust portion, an engine inlet, oriented in a forward direction to the intake portion, the engine inlet defined by a peripheral cowling that directs airflow to the intake portion of the aircraft engine, and a spiral cone positioned proximate the engine inlet, the spiral cone including a variable compression surface area that directs airflow immediately in front of the engine inlet. |
| US08690096B2 |
Aircraft with dual flight regimes
The aircraft is capable of two distinct fuel-efficient flight regimes: one is a vertical flight regime supported by two large two-bladed rotors with low disc loading located on right and left longitudinal booms. The booms extend between outboard regions of a front wing and inboard regions of a rear wing that has a larger span an area than the front wing. The other flight regime is high speed up to high subsonic Mach number with the aircraft supported by wing lift with high wing loading, and with the rotors stopped and faired with minimal local drag contiguous to the booms. The longitudinal location of the aircrafts center of gravity, aerodynamic center and the center of the rotors are in close proximity. The front wing is preferably swept back, and the rear wing is preferably of W planform. |
| US08690095B2 |
Bobbin fixing apparatus
Disclosed is a bobbin fixing apparatus. The bobbin fixing apparatus includes a rotating shaft installed to a mounting plate and provided with a fixing unit partially protruding from the rotating shaft so as to be inserted into the rotating shaft, and a bobbin on or from which an object is wound or unwound, the bobbin being placed on the rotating shaft such that the fixing unit is exposed in front of the bobbin. The bobbin includes a rotating body, a plurality of bobbin members on which an object is wound, and an end coupler configured to be operated upon receiving pressure when the bobbin is placed on the rotating shaft, the end coupling serving to keep an end of the object in a fixed position on the rotating shaft during winding or to release the end of the object from the fixed position during unwinding. |
| US08690094B2 |
Film packing device
A film packing device includes an axle rod and a grasp pipe. The axle rod includes at least one engaging block protruding from one side thereof. The pipe body is fitted on the axle rod. The pipe body includes a semi-circle brake block at one end thereof close to the engaging block. The brake block is coupled with a semi-circle elastic brake member. The elastic brake member has a slide block corresponding to the engaging block. When in use, the elastic brake member cooperates with the brake block to press the axle rod, such that the axle rod stops rotating. The slide block can be pushed to engage with the engaging block to stop rotation of the axle rod, so that the user can pack an article conveniently. |
| US08690091B2 |
Roller with driven grinding roller
A roller mill includes a rotatable grinding table, at least one grinding roller retained rotatably on a pivot lever and in rolling engagement with the grinding table, the pivot lever being pivotable about a pivot lever axis, and at least one drive train connected to the grinding roller and having a fixed motor and a fixed gearing mechanism. The drive train further has a gearing mechanism which pivots with the pivot lever and/or the grinding roller. |
| US08690081B2 |
Fluid dispenser head
A fluid dispenser head including an inlet well (14), an axial assembly housing (2) in which there extends a pin (3), and a nozzle (4) assembled along an axis X in the axial assembly housing (2). The head also includes two feed ducts (15), each connecting the inlet well (14) to the axial assembly housing (2). The pin forms two swirl channels (35) connected in tangential manner to a swirl chamber (36). The nozzle is in sealing contact with the pin (3) so as to define two connection sections, each connecting a feed duct (15) to a swirl channel (35). |
| US08690079B2 |
System for failsafe controlled dispensing of liquid material
A system and method are provided for selectively containing and dispensing a predetermined liquid material in and from a source container in failsafe manner, wherein a housing is disposed to receive a pressurized fluid stream, and a selectively operable valve assembly is disposed in a flow path defined in the housing. The housing includes an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween, which is formed with an admission port for admitting the predetermined liquid material. The valve assembly is disposed between the housing's inlet and outlet, and may be selectively operated to alternatively open and close access of the predetermined liquid material into the housing. The valve assembly is operably actuated responsive at least in part to the pressurized fluid stream in the flow path, whereby admission of the predetermined liquid material into said housing is keyed by introduction of the pressurized fluid stream into the flow path. |
| US08690076B2 |
Rotary atomizer head, rotary atomizer painting device, rotary atomization painting method
An annular dam portion is formed along a circumference of an inner peripheral face of a rotary atomizer head and has a plurality of paint supply holes formed along the circumferential direction at the boundary between the annular dam portion and the inner peripheral face. The annular dam portion is disposed between the bottom of the inner peripheral face and the tip of the inner peripheral face. The dam portion is formed such that a substantially constant distance separates the inner peripheral face from the dam portion. |
| US08690071B2 |
Transponder
A transponder comprising an antenna, such as an antenna coil, is provided for inductively coupling the transponder to a reader, transferring energy from the reader to the transponder, the electromagnetic field alternating with a carrier frequency, a rectifier having an antenna side coupled to the antenna for receiving an alternating current from the antenna and a transponder side for supplying the transponder with a direct current, and optionally a subcarrier modulator for modulating a subcarrier wave with a data signal to obtain a transmit signal. The rectifier modulates the electromagnetic field with the transmit signal so that the transmit signal is transmitted to the reader. By using a rectifier both for converting alternating current to direct current and as an analog mixer, increased range of the transponder is achieved without the need of generation and synchronization of a carrier wave. |
| US08690070B2 |
Wireless IC device component and wireless IC device
A wireless IC device includes a wireless IC chip, a coupling electrode, and a radiation plate. The coupling electrode includes coupling portions arranged to be coupled to the wireless IC chip and a pair of opposing ends. The pair of opposing ends are capacitively coupled to each other and oppose the radiation plate to be coupled to the radiation plate. The wireless IC chip uses the radiation plate as an antenna to transmit and receive signals having certain frequencies to and from an RFID system. |
| US08690064B2 |
Transaction card assembly and methods of manufacture
A transaction card assembly may be constructed and arranged for use in a transaction by an issuee of the transaction card assembly. The transaction card assembly may include a first layer including a sheet of material, a second layer including a sheet of material, and an adhesive foam material between the first and second layers that expands to fill a space between the first and second layers and to define, at least in part, a finished thickness for the transaction card assembly and bonds the first and second layers together. Indicia, such as information representing an account number, biometric data representing a feature of the issuee, etc., may be included with the assembly for use in a transaction. |
| US08690063B2 |
Apparatus for and method of electro-optically reading direct part marking indicia by image capture
An apparatus and method electro-optically read indicia, such as a direct part marking (DPM) code, that is raised or sunken relative to a target surface on a target. A solid-state, distance imaging sensor captures a target image comprised of a first set of pixels having first distance values that correspond to a first distance of the code from the sensor, and a second set of pixels having second distance values that correspond to a second distance of the target surface from the sensor. A controller reads the indicia by distinguishing between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels within the image, by determining abrupt changes in the distance values among neighboring pixels. |
| US08690060B2 |
Electronic payment terminal
A card reader payment terminal including an electronic circuit including at least one printed circuit board, to which are connected electronic components, including a microcontroller designed to control different peripherals, where the microcontroller is connected to an associated microprocessor, where the card reader payment terminal is configured to receive a smart card comprising the associated microprocessor, where the associated microprocessor comprises a connector compatible with the standardized connector of smart cards for connection with the microcontroller, where the microcontroller and the associated microprocessor operate in parallel for executing a task, and where the associated microprocessor is adapted to calculate a security operation. |
| US08690059B1 |
System and method for a baseband nearfield magnetic stripe data transmitter
The present invention describes a system and a method for a baseband near-field magnetic stripe data transmitter (MST) device that transmits payment card data from a smart-phone, or other electronic device, into a Point of Sale (POS) transaction terminal. The MST device includes a driver and an inductor. The MST receives magnetic stripe data comprising payment card data, processes the received magnetic stripe data and emits high energy magnetic pulses comprising the processed magnetic stripe data that are then received remotely by the magnetic stripe reader of the POS. |
| US08690058B2 |
Card reader
A card reader with magnetic heads, an anterior frame, a main body frame, a control board and a sealing member formed to be annular. The main body frame has a head arrangement in which the magnetic heads are positioned, a sac-like card cage in which the rear end of the inserted card is housed, and a seal arrangement which is formed between the head arrangement and the card cage and in which the sealing member is arranged. The anterior frame has a substantially cylindrical cylinder portion formed to connect to a front face portion. A rear end side portion of the cylinder portion (crushing portion) crushes the sealing member in the radial direction from the outer circumferential side of the sealing member. The control board is arranged outside the card cage, and the inner circumferential face of the seal crushing portion is formed in a tapered shape. |
| US08690047B2 |
Container with inclined walls, stacking tabs and reinforced corners
A one-piece container formed from a single unitary blank of corrugated paperboard has a bottom wall, opposed side walls and inwardly inclined opposed end walls. Stacking tabs project upwardly from the end walls and tab locks in the bottom wall receive the stacking tabs of a subjacent container when the containers are stacked on top of one another. A reinforcing corner post extends the full height of the container in each corner. The corner posts are formed by panels extending from opposite ends of the end walls, wherein the panels include a first panel foldably joined to an end of an associated end wall and adhered to an adjacent side wall, a second panel foldably joined to the first panel and extending diagonally across the corner, and a third panel foldably joined to the second panel and adhered to an adjacent side wall. |
| US08690046B2 |
Self-mating zipper on carton
The present disclosure relates to rigid or semi-rigid cartons with zipper-type reclosable elements, particularly self-mating zippers. The cartons can be formed from blanks which have a self-mating zipper on the inside of the carton. Additionally, the zipper can be attached to a flexible film which is, in turn, attached to the package. |
| US08690042B2 |
Envelope assembly
An assembly including a front panel is separated from a back panel by a panel fold line. Side flaps are disposed at opposing edges of the front panel and are each separated from the front panel by a flap fold line. The side flaps include a front flap surface with an adhesive material and a back flap surface opposite the front flap surface. The assembly is foldable about the panel fold line to dispose the back panel adjacent the front panel and foldable about the flap fold line to dispose the back flap surface adjacent a front surface of the back panel when the back panel is folded. In a folded position, the assembly forms a pocket between the front and back panels, and is adherable by the adhesive material to a separate surface. |
| US08690033B2 |
Tank assembly for attachment to a tire carrier
A tank assembly is configured for attachment to a mount of a tire carrier of a vehicle. The tank assembly includes a hub reservoir and a flange reservoir. The hub reservoir radially surrounds a central axis and is configured for connection to, and being supported by, the mount of the tire carrier. The flange reservoir extends radially from the hub reservoir about the central axis. The hub reservoir and the flange reservoir cooperate to define a cavity which is configured for holding a volume of fluid. |
| US08690031B1 |
Backpack system
A frame assembly includes a base frame member, an upper frame member and a canopy frame member. Each of the frame members is fabricated of a rigid metallic tube in an inverted U-shaped configuration with a closed end and essentially parallel legs terminating in lower free ends. Pins pivotally couple the frame members with respect to each other adjacent to their free ends. The base frame member has a forward face with shoulder straps and a waist strap secured to the base frame member and extending forwardly for releasably coupling the base frame member to a carrier's back. A canopy sheet spans the canopy frame member and the upper frame member. A first pull cord has a fixed end secured to the canopy frame member and a second end extending forwardly of the base frame member for being pulled by the carrier to deploy the canopy frame member and the canopy sheet to an extended orientation. |
| US08690029B2 |
Backpack and waist bag carrying system
The invention provides a backpack (10) and cooperating waist bag (100) carrying system. In one embodiment the backpack has a lower or lumbar region below the bag portion of the backpack that releasably contains the receiver of the waist bag when the belt of the waist bag is secured around the bearer's waist and the backpack is worn on the bearer's back. The receiver of the waist bag can be moved without having to take off the backpack so that the receiver of the waist bag is disposed to the bearer's front and the bearer can gain access to the contents of the receiver. The bearer can then move the receiver back to the lower region of the backpack and the combination of the backpack and the waist bag then will appear to be a normal backpack with a waist belt. While moving the receiver, the waist bag remains operatively connected to the backpack. |
| US08690023B2 |
Dispenser with liquid film blocking capability
A dispenser includes a hollow containment body (2) able to be inserted in a bottle and including an orifice (5) for the suction of liquid from the bottle, a ring nut (21), able to be screwed onto the neck of the bottle, including an annular shoulder (22) covering and associated to an annular lip (2d) of the containment body. The dispenser further includes a piston (10) able to slide within the containment body between a raised position and a lowered position, a hollow stem (7) axially able to slide within the containment body, associated inferiorly to the piston and superiorly to a dispensing spout (8) to command the actuation of the piston and dispense fluid contained in the bottle. Also provided is a retaining ring (11) integral with the containment body and inserted therein to guide the stem in its travel within the containment body. |
| US08690022B2 |
Button-sliding-type opening/closing device for a cosmetic container
The present invention relates to a button-sliding-type opening/closing device for a cosmetic container consisting of a vessel for storing cosmetics in a liquid or gel state, and a discharge pump coupled to a top inner portion of the vessel for discharging cosmetics by applying external pressure thereto, wherein the button-sliding-type opening/closing device comprises: a shoulder (20) coupled to the top portion of the vessel (10); a button body (30) inserted into the shoulder (20) and upwardly and downwardly movable; and a button (40) slidably coupled to a top surface of the button body (30), for opening and closing a cosmetic pumping hole (31) in the button body (30), as well as for preventing the button body (30) from being pressed and actuated. |
| US08690021B2 |
Container liner and a method of discharging a container liner
The present invention concerns a container liner with an aerate system which reduces the specific bulk density of the powder material inside the liner and thereby improves the flowability of the product. This significantly reduces the unloading time and increases the safety in relation to the discharge process due to a lower response angle and thereby that the required tilting angle of the cargo container is reduced. |
| US08690019B2 |
Head for dispensing a liquid as a drip
A head for dispensing liquid as a drip, includes a nozzle onto which a channel for ejecting the liquid leads. Air sucked in from the outside is returned through the channel in the opposite direction. In the nozzle, on the ejection channel, the drip dispensing head of the invention includes a valve functioning as a non-return valve for the circulation of the liquid being ejected. A mobile disc of the valve is produced so as to selectively enable air to pass through the valve when the disc is bearing against the seat thereof in a position for closing the liquid ejection channel. The disc is returned to the position by negative pressure applied upstream, which tends to suck in outside air. The disc is advantageously made of a microporous material, which provides antibacterial filtering of the return air. |
| US08690018B2 |
Wall mountable dispenser and method of dispensing material
A dispenser adapted for mounting to a surface is disclosed, and includes a bracket to which a container of material to be dispensed is connected. The bracket can have at least one arm to support the container and to which the container is releasably and rotatably connected. The container can be lifted by a user and squeezed to dispense material from the container. Alternatively, the container can be pressed by a user against the bracket to dispense the material. In some embodiments, the container is provided with a cover substantially covering a front surface of the container. The cover can be coupled to the bracket via the container. |
| US08690017B2 |
Powder dispensing assembly for a waste container
A powder dispenser for a waste disposal system includes a mounting portion that is adapted to be secured to a waste disposal unit, and a container defining an interior space in which a powder such as sodium bicarbonate may be stored. The container is releasably mounted to the underside of a hinged lid member of the waste disposal unit. A directional dispensing system is provided for dispensing powder from the container into a targeted portion of the waste disposal system. The directional dispensing system is constructed and arranged to concentrate initial dispersal of the powder to a single side of the container and includes a dispensing orifice. The dispensing orifice is preferably oriented to limit initial dispersal of the powder within a defined angular range with respect to the longitudinal axis of the lid member, and is spaced axially and laterally with respect to the waste disposal unit at distances that facilitate distribution of the powder to desired targeted portions of the waste disposal unit. The container and waste disposal unit also define a venting path so that the powder within the container can also absorb odors within the waste disposal unit. |
| US08690015B2 |
Dispenser for oil and vinegar
A dispenser for oil and vinegar, the dispenser comprising: (a) an outer container defining an internal space for receiving oil and having a top rim defining an opening; (b) an inner container defining an internal space for receiving vinegar, the inner container being at least partially located within the internal space of the outer container, the inner container having a shoulder projecting outwardly and being located above the top rim of the outer container; (c) a cap having a top wall and a peripheral wall for enclosing the top rim of the outer container and the shoulder of the inner container, the top wall and peripheral wall defining an internal space; (d) a first tube having a bottom end defining a bottom opening facing the internal space of the outer container and a top end defining a top opening opened to the atmosphere, wherein the first tube defines a first passage for allowing fluid communication between the internal space of the outer container and the atmosphere; and (e) a second tube having a bottom end defining a bottom opening facing the internal space of the inner container and a top end defining a top opening opened to the atmosphere, wherein the second tube defines a second passage for allowing fluid communication between the internal space of the inner container and the atmosphere. |
| US08690012B2 |
Dispensing assembly comprising a cartridge with bag
The dispensing assembly comprises a double cartridge having two storage containers with bags placed therein, a mixer that is connectable to the cartridge, and an opening means acting upon the bag. The opening means is arranged on the mixer housing and rotatable with respect to the cartridge and in one exemplary embodiment has a cutting member with two knife-edges that are arranged essentially parallelly to and spaced apart from the longitudinal axis and provided with cutting edges. Thanks to the rotatable knife-edges, such a cutting member allows a clean and predetermined opening of the bags and a dispensing operation with minimum pressure losses and lost volumes. |
| US08690010B2 |
Method and a device for regulating pressure in a vessel containing a liquid
The method of regulating pressure in a vessel comprises the steps of feeding the vessel with gas at a given feed rate and of modulating the exhaust rate by means of a valve member placing facing an exhaust orifice and associated with a control member. |
| US08690009B2 |
Automated vacuum assisted valve priming system and methods of use
An automated system (10) and methods (11) for priming a fluid chamber (12) of a fluid dispensing valve (14) with fluid (16) from fluid material source that includes a vacuum source (46), a valve priming station (32), a vacuum switch (54), and a controller (62). The valve priming station (32) has a boot (40), a vacuum chamber (36), and a vacuum channel (42) in the boot (40). The vacuum channel (42) connects with the vacuum source (46) via the vacuum chamber (36). The boot (40) sealingly engages a valve nozzle (28) of the fluid dispensing valve (14) so that the vacuum chamber (36) connects the vacuum source (46) with the fluid chamber (12). The vacuum switch (54) couples with the vacuum channel (42) via the vacuum chamber (36) and has an opened and closed position based upon a vacuum level in the vacuum chamber (36). The controller (62) is electrically connected with the vacuum source (46) and vacuum switch (54) and controls priming of the fluid dispensing valve (14) based upon whether the vacuum switch (54) is opened or closed. |
| US08690008B2 |
Sponge sheet dispenser
A device for dispensing a sheet from a stack of sheets is disclosed. The device includes a holder for receiving a refill container including the stack of sheets. The holder includes a holder base wall and opposed holder side walls extending up from the holder base wall. The refill container includes a container base wall and opposed first and second container side walls extending up from the container base wall. A first flap extends inward from an end of the first container side wall, and a second flap extends inward from an end of the second container side wall. The first flap and the second flap are dimensioned to define a longitudinal dispensing slot of the container. At least one of the first flap and the second flap of the container can flex upward when a sheet is dispensed from the device. In one form, the sheets comprise a thin sponge material. |
| US08690007B2 |
Blow molded universal lid
A lid for industrial or commercial large size solid waste containers has a ribbed single layer central portion and a peripheral edge having a hollow double wall boxed configuration. The lids have substantial symmetry so that the lids may be stacked and nested with alternate lids oriented in opposite front-to-back directions. |
| US08690006B1 |
Tilted grooved beverage drinking container
A beverage container having a tilted groove at or near the bottom of the bowl or reservoir of the container. The groove, of substantially uniform depth and shape, encircles the entire circumference of the reservoir, and is inclined at a preselected acute angle with respect to the bottom thereof for enhancing the drinker's grip. |
| US08690000B2 |
Cryogenic tank and space launcher including such a tank
A cryogenic tank for a space launcher, comprising a partition and delimiting top and bottom volumes communicating via at least one free central opening formed in the partition, so as, on the one hand, to allow for the flow of liquid by gravity from the top volume to the bottom volume via the central opening or openings and, on the other hand, to prevent the rising of the fluid from the bottom volume to the top volume via the central opening or openings under the action of acceleration forces, the tank also comprising at least one vent forming separate from the central opening or openings and providing fluid communication between the top and bottom volumes, the vent being configured to favor the migration of vapor from the bottom volume to the top volume and to prevent the rising of liquid from the bottom volume to the top volume. |
| US08689999B2 |
Hair styling device holster
A hair styling device holster includes a bottom section, a middle section, and a top section. The bottom section includes a flat bottom surface. The middle section is coupled to the bottom section and includes walls that define an interior compartment sized and configured to receive a heated end of a hair styling device. At least a portion of one of the plurality of walls including a mesh grating. The top section is coupled to the middle section and defines at least one opening in communication with the interior compartment defined by the middle section. An insulating material is disposed on an upper interior surface of the bottom section for insulating the bottom section from a hair styling device when the hair styling device is disposed within the first opening. |
| US08689997B2 |
Container with lid
A container with a removable lid for sealing a container, wherein the container is rotationally symmetrical to an axis and has a circular bottom, the outer periphery of which is connected to a surrounding outer wall, which comprises at the top a first rim element that co-operates with a second rim element along the outer periphery of the lid. The lid comprises a circumventing U-shaped track, extending a predetermined way into the container and connects to the second rim element of the lid to an upper circular surface of the lid, wherein the said U-shaped track has an outer wall. The container has a protecting device, comprising a circumventing skirt, arranged to be placed in the U-shaped track, wherein a radial stiffening of the upper rim of the container and the lid are achieved to protect against external influence directed towards the upper rim. |
| US08689995B2 |
Child resistant, tamper evident container
Two embodiments of a molded plastic container/closure combination are described. Each can be structured to provide a child resistant opening feature and, optionally, a tamper-evident feature. In both embodiments, the closure has radially extending bayonets arranged around an outer skirt, which bayonets can be rotated into a position underlying semi-annular ribs in a beam molded integrally with the sidewall of the container. Rotation of the closure in the unlocking direction is opposed by a structure which requires depression of a release tab downwardly. In one embodiment, depression of the release tab requires that a frangible element first be fractured and removed from the container sidewall. In the second embodiment, depressing the release tab is made possible by a living hinge formed on one side of the release tab. |
| US08689994B2 |
Safety device for a fluid storage tank, related systems and methods
A safety device for a fluid storage tank having a first port for filling the tank with fuel oil and a second port for allowing airflow therethrough is disclosed. The safety device includes a tubular body having a first open end and a second open end connectable to the second port, and a flow check valve contained within the tubular body and configured to remain open when air flows through the safety device and configured to close based on a predetermined fluid force of the fuel oil through the safety device. Related systems and methods are also disclosed. |
| US08689993B2 |
System and method for holding a hazardous substance
Systems and containers for holding and transporting potentially hazardous materials are disclosed. Assembled containers may have locking mechanisms reducing the possibility of the containers being opened by persons that are not opening the container in a safe environment. Moreover, containers with releasably securable members for carrying substances such as frozen carbon dioxide, used for maintaining cold temperatures of various items are disclosed. |
| US08689992B2 |
Wood and resin deck box
The present invention relates to a storage box or container which is formed from a combination of wood and resin or plastic components. The front, back, and sides of the storage box are preferably set into a channel on a base of the container. A circumferential member is secured to the top portions of the front, back, and sides of the storage box to retain these members in alignment. A top member is hingedly secured to the circumferential member, which enables ready access into the storage box. The storage box is formed from components which are capable of being packaged and shipped in a knocked-down state and constructed into a storage box on site, thereby saving shipping space and costs. |
| US08689990B2 |
Metal cap and bottle with cap
The present invention relates to a metal cap which seals the mouth of a bottle for drinking or the like, and a bottle with the cap which is furnished therewith. |
| US08689986B2 |
Telescopic crane with self-mounting bracing device and method of mounting a bracing device
The invention relates to a system for bracing a telescopic crane, in particular a mobile crane, with a bracing unit which can be mounted on the jib. The bracing unit comprises erectable bracing supports and a holding frame for securing the bracing unit to the jib. The holding frame has a cross-section which is open at the top and allows the jib to be inserted from above the bracing unit The invention also relates to a method of positioning and mounting such a bracing unit on the jib of a telescopic crane. |
| US08689985B2 |
Filtration media for liquid filtration
Filtration media including at least one layer of nanofibers having average diameters less than 1000 nanometers with optional scrim layer(s) are disclosed for filtering particulate matter in liquid. The media achieve flow rates of at least 0.055 L/min/cm2 at relatively high levels of solidity. The media have also advantageously been found to have non-diminishing flow rates as differential pressures increase between 2 psi (14 kPa) and 15 psi (100 kPa). |
| US08689984B2 |
Mixture separation device with detached free rolling bars
A device for separating components of a mixture, particularly industrial fluids but also gases including air, allows for targeted components of the mixture to be attached onto a separating bar and removed from the mixture. The separating bars traverse a track formed within the body of the separating device and through respective tank, cleaning, free roll, and compression regions in a controlled cleaning system. The separating bars are detached from one another and allowed to move through the separating device independently of one another. The device removes the use of chains to connect cleaning bars traversing through a cleaning system. |
| US08689982B2 |
Particle separating device
The invention relates to a device (2) for separating magnetic particles comprising several substantially aligned magnets (3). Some of the magnets (3) are inversely oriented. This array reduces any magnetic interference with the collection area of an adjacent magnet. |
| US08689981B2 |
Manipulation of particles in channels
Systems and methods for the manipulation of particles within channels such as microfluidic channels are provided. In one set of embodiments, magnets are positioned around a channel. As a fluid containing magnetic and non-magnetic particles flows through the channel, the magnetic field created by the magnets can be used to transport the magnetic and/or non-magnetic particles to desired locations within the channel, which may useful in some cases for causing some separation of the particles. For example, the magnetic field may be used to transport magnetic or non-magnetic particles from a core fluid to a surrounding sheath fluid. In some cases, the magnetic field is used to transport non-magnetic particles to a small volume within the channel (e.g., a single-file row within the channel). The systems and methods described herein may find application in a variety of fields including, for example, continuous sorting of cells, removal of targeted cells from a stream of blood, or the arrangement of non-magnetic particles in channels for analysis. |
| US08689979B2 |
Cutlery tray assembly
A cutlery tray assembly having a first tray and a cover. The first tray has a plurality of partitions defining a plurality of compartments for holding cutlery. The cover has a first cover section hingedly attached to one end of the first tray, and a second cover section attached to the first cover section by a living or piano hinge. At least one side tab is positioned on the first cover section and is adapted to releasably attach to a respective point on the tray to hold the first cover section in a closed position. At least one other tab is positioned on the second cover section and is adapted to releasably attach to a respective point on the tray to keep the second cover section in a closed position independent of the at least one side tab. Furthermore, a second tray may be hingedly attached to the bottom of the first tray for holding household items. |
| US08689978B2 |
Hinged container holder for medication cards
There is shown in three embodiments a pill blister pack container for holding a pill blister pack. The container having a first portion highedly attached to a second portion. The first portion being sized to fit within the second portion when the container is closed. Both the first and second portions have defined side walls and a front wall. In addition, the first portion includes flanges in the side walls that engage apertures in the second portion to lock the two portions. Furthermore, at least one support post extends between the two portions. |
| US08689973B2 |
Garment bag systems
The present invention includes methods and apparatus in which a reusable bag is provided for the collection and return of soiled garments, laundry and/or other clothing items. The bag may be provided in the form of a hamper that is open at the top, with one or more hooks that allow the bag to be hung from a clothing rod, and is provided with engagement devices that allow the bag to be folded up when not in use, and then unfolded to various levels for containment and protection of clean items that have been hung on standard hangers. In some embodiments, garment protection flaps are provided inside the bag. |
| US08689965B2 |
System for rotating a number of packages
A conveyor belt system is provided for enabling rotation of a number of packages, such that every second package is rotated clockwise, and every other package is rotated counter clockwise. A computer program product is also provided. |
| US08689963B2 |
Customer-operated ordering kiosk having modular hardware configuration including overlay and inlay plates
A system and method for integrating devices and equipment into self-service kiosk devices is disclosed. Hardware configuration kits are provided which allow for a less complicated implementation of specific and customized functionality for quick service restaurant (QSR) environments. In certain embodiments a kiosk door is coupled to the kiosk body to form a kiosk cabinet in which devices and equipment used to operate the kiosk are housed. Certain interior kiosk components and devices, such as coin dispensers, bill acceptors, and the like, may be configured to extend or protrude through the kiosk door so that they may be accessed by the customer. The kiosk door may have a hollowed out center or aperture which allows access to the interior cabinet. The aperture may be substantially covered by a removable door inlay which cooperatively includes cutouts corresponding to the components protruding through the door. A removable door overlay may also be provided which attaches to an outer surface of the kiosk door and may also include cutouts which correspond to the protruding components. |
| US08689960B2 |
Torque limiter
A torque limiter in which an area of a region where an area of a region where an inner face of a circumferentially extending chamber intersects an oil pressure expanding chamber in an extended plane extended toward the oil pressure expanding chamber is larger than a sectional area of an opening of the oil removing hole which is opened to the circumferentially extending chamber. |
| US08689959B2 |
Clutch assembly for hybrid transmission
A fully contained, drop-in clutch assembly, which includes a clutch cover which has slots, a moveable pressure plate with radially outwardly directed tabs that engages the slots of the clutch allowing axial movement, a fixed pressure plate which is fastened to the clutch cover by fastening elements, a clutch disc disposed between the movable pressure plate and the fixed pressure plate, and a diaphragm spring. By fastening the fixed pressure plate to the clutch cover, the clutch assembly is fully contained, allowing easy assembly to transmission housing and a flexplate. |
| US08689954B2 |
Vehicle suspension system
A vehicle suspension system that inhibits a pressure within a gas chamber from reducing below a threshold value. In one arrangement, the suspension system includes a shock absorber associated with a motorcycle. The shock absorber includes an upper gas chamber that is filled with air. An air pressure adjustment valve operates to supply air into the upper gas chamber from a supply of air outside of the shock absorber when the air pressure in the upper gas chamber becomes smaller than a lower threshold value. |
| US08689948B2 |
Machine tool having a brake system
A machine tool having an emergency braking system for abruptly braking a rotating shaft of the machine tool to protect a user of the machine tool, the emergency braking system having a brake drum that can be forced into engagement with the at least one brake shoe to brake the shaft. The brake drum and the at least one brake shoe are designed and configured in a way that allows the braking engagement therebetween to take place under the influence of a centrifugal force or centrifugal acceleration resulting from the rotation of a shaft. |
| US08689946B2 |
Device for blocking the output shaft of the engine of an automobile
A system for blocking an output shaft of the engine of an automobile, of a type that includes a toothed wheel coaxially mounted on the shaft, and a first finger mobile between a shaft releasing position and a shaft blocking position in which the first finger is engaged in a gap formed between two teeth of the wheel. The system includes an alignment mechanism capable of aligning a gap between two teeth of the wheel and the first mobile finger, and the first mobile finger is configured to be inserted into the gap without any substantial circumferential clearance. |
| US08689945B2 |
Device for preventing travel of an elevator with its doors open
An exemplary device for preventing travel of an elevator car when a car door is open includes a receiver that remains in a fixed position relative to a hoistway wall. A stop member moves responsive to the car door moving toward an open position such that the stop member engages the receiver to prevent movement of the elevator car when the door is open. |
| US08689941B2 |
Lubricating apparatus and methods for lubricating vehicle panel assemblies for vehicle installation
A lubricating apparatus for lubricating a panel assembly prior to vehicle installation includes a lubricating jig assembly. The lubricating jig assembly includes a front guard wall and a rear guard wall connected to the front guard wall defining a panel receiving volume therebetween. At least one nozzle opening is located in the receiving volume. A pump is fluidly connected to the at least one nozzle opening for delivering a lubricant fluid thereto. A lubricant reservoir is in fluid communication with the receiving volume. |
| US08689939B2 |
Step apparatus for heavy construction equipment and tree harvester having leveling system
A step apparatus for heavy construction equipment and tree harvester having a leveling system for controlling a horizontal level of a cab and an upper frame is provided, which includes a step protector including a main body fixedly installed on one side of an upper frame, a step guide hole opened from an inside of the main body to an outside, a guide rail formed along a length direction of an inner side wall of the main body, and an insert hole formed on one side of the guide rail and open toward a vertically upward direction of the guide rail; a side step including a plurality of foot steps arranged at specified intervals on a step frame to form stairs, a step drawer formed on an upper part of the step frame and seated in the step guide hole, and a guide pin positioned adjacent to the step drawer and projected toward the side wall of the main body, wherein when the guide pin is slid along the guide rail, the step frame is seated in the main body or is drawn out from the inside of the main body; and a folding actuator including a cylinder rod coupled to the step drawer to be extended and contracted, the folding actuator drawing the step drawer to the inside of the main body of the step protector. |
| US08689937B2 |
Cargo lifting device for a ladder
A cargo lifting apparatus for use with a ladder includes a lift track coupled to each ladder side rail. Each lift track includes first and second adjacent channels, the first channel defining a longitudinal slot. The apparatus includes a carrier assembly having a back portion, a pair of support members extending perpendicularly and forwardly from the back portion, opposed mounting members configured to be received in a respective first channel slot, and rollers attached to the back portion configured to bear against respective ladder side rails. A motor/brake combination is coupled to a lower rung of the ladder. A pulley assembly includes a lower sprocket operatively coupled to the motor, an upper sprocket, and a cord extending between the sprockets and coupled to the carrier assembly for selectively raising and lowering the carrier assembly when the motor is activated or deactivated. |
| US08689934B2 |
Sound absorbing structure
A sound absorbing structure includes multiple sound absorbers. The sound absorbers are assembled together into a sound absorbing member. The sound absorbing member absorbs sound emitted from a sound source. Each of the sound absorbers is shaped like a hollow tube. Each of the sound absorbers has a hole extending in its axis direction. |
| US08689933B2 |
Helmholtz resonator for a gas turbine combustion chamber
A resonator is provided, having an adaptable resonator frequency for absorbing sound generated by a gas stream of a gas turbine. The resonator includes a neck section, a chamber and a deformable element being deformable under influence of a change of a gas turbine temperature of the gas stream. The shape of the deformable element is predetermined with respect to a respective gas turbine temperature. The neck section and the chamber form a volume of the resonator. The neck section forms a passage coupling the volume with the gas turbine. The deformable element is thermally coupled to the gas turbine in such a way that the shape of the deformable element depends on the respective gas turbine temperature. The deformable element forms a spiral and is installed to the neck section in such a way that an effective diameter of the neck section depends on the gas turbine temperature. |
| US08689929B2 |
Excitation device and method for downhole seismic testing using the same
An excitation device for downhole seismic testing, includes an excitation hammer, a holding arm connected at one end thereof to the excitation hammer to allow the excitation hammer to rotate about the other end thereof, a support post having the other end of the holding arm rotatably coupled to an upper end thereof to support the excitation hammer and the holding arm at a certain height, and an excitation source configured to allow the support post to stand upright on the upper side thereof and which generates a seismic wave when struck by the rotated excitation hammer. The support post is formed at a lower end thereof with a securing section detachably inserted into a groove for the support post formed on the upper side of the excitation source such that the support post, the holding arm, the excitation hammer and the excitation source can be separated from each other. |
| US08689911B2 |
Cutter and cutting tool incorporating the same
A cutter for a downhole cutting tool is disclosed. The cutter includes a cutter body having a cutting face, a peripheral sidewall flank, and a base. The base has a recessed channel that extends inwardly from the peripheral sidewall flank and provides an inlet opening therein. A downhole cutting tool employing the cutter is also disclosed. The cutting tool includes a tool body having a cutter face. The tool also includes a cutter body having a cutting face, a peripheral sidewall flank, and a base, the base having a recessed channel that extends inwardly from the peripheral sidewall flank and provides an inlet opening therein. The tool also includes a braze joint between the base and the bonding surface. |
| US08689910B2 |
Impregnation bit with improved cutting structure and blade geometry
A rotary drag bit for drilling subterranean formations includes a bit body having a face extending from a centerline to a gage. A plurality of blades may be disposed on the face, and may generally extend radially outwardly toward the gage. The bit may further include a plurality of discrete impregnated cutting posts, each of which may extend outwardly from an associated blade. Each discrete impregnated cutting post angles generally toward a front edge of the associated blade and generally toward the intended direction of rotation of the bit. The rotary drag bit may further include a plurality of matrix pockets disposed on the blades. The discrete impregnated cutting posts may be housed within corresponding matrix pockets. |
| US08689908B2 |
Drill bit having enhanced stabilization features and method of use thereof
A drill bit for drilling a borehole in earthen formations comprising a bit body having a bit axis and a bit face. In addition, the drill bit comprises a primary blade extending radially along the bit face, the primary blade including a cutter-supporting surface that defines a blade profile in rotated profile view extending from the bit axis to an outer radius of the bit body. The blade profile is continuously contoured and includes a plurality of concave regions. Further, the drill bit comprises a plurality of cutter elements mounted to the cutter-supporting surface of the primary blade. Each cutter element on the primary blade has a forward-facing cutting face with a cutting edge adapted to penetrate and shear the earthen formation. |
| US08689902B2 |
Method and equipment for displaying drill holes and method for directing drill rod when holes are drilled into rock
A method and equipment for displaying holes to be drilled when drilling holes into rock with a rock-drilling rig having control equipment and a display belonging thereto and measuring means for defining the direction and position of a drill rod, by using a pre-designed drilling plan defined in a three-dimensional coordinate system, in which a starting point (19a to 21a) and end point (19b to 21b) is defined for each hole to be drilled. A base plane running through the end point (19b to 21b) of the hole and parallel to the projection plane is defined for each hole (19 to 21), and a projection of the intersection of a hole or its extension created when drilling in accordance with the current location of the drill rod and the defined base plane is displayed with a graphical location symbol on the projection plane. |
| US08689893B2 |
Check valve
The present invention provides a check valve comprising a valve housing (1,2), a substantially circular flapper (3), a valve seat (16) for the flapper (3), an expandable chamber (11) in fluid contact with a connecting port (8) for hydraulics fluid, and a piston (4) having a first and a second end, the flapper comprises a first (19) and a second (18) connection point and is pivotably connected at the first connection point (19), said flapper is capable of pivoting between a closed position in close contact with the valve seat (16) and an open position which allows fluid to flow through the valve, the piston (4) is in contact with the expandable chamber (11) and a pre-stressed compressible device (15), said piston (4) pivotably connected at the first end to the flapper (3) via the second connection point and that the second connection point (18) is situated closer to the center of the circular part of the flapper than the first connection point (19). |
| US08689891B2 |
Ball and dart launcher with parallel axis release
A universal dart launcher launches a dart by moving a dart from a first position to a second position. The universal dart launcher has a launcher body defining a central bore having an axis and lower and upper ends configured to attach to a string of pipe. A cartridge housed within the launcher body may move perpendicular to the axis from a first position to a second position. A drop member is positioned within the cartridge so that it will not be in axial alignment with the central bore while in the first position, and will be in axial alignment with the central bore while in the second position. An actuator assembly couples to the launcher body to move the cartridge from the first position to the second position when actuated. |
| US08689886B2 |
Gate valve seat and seat ring
A gate valve has a body, the body having a cavity and a flow passage intersecting the cavity. A seat is mounted to the body at the intersection of the flow passage and the cavity. A gate is installed at the cavity and has an engaging face that slidingly engages the seat while the gate is being moved between open and closed positions. The end faces between a seat pocket and the seat are hard-coated and smooth-finished to provide sealing when mated. The hardcoated pocket and seat sealing surfaces extend the life of the valve by eliminating the need for an elastomeric seal of limited life. |
| US08689884B2 |
Mud pulse telemetry system
A mud pulser tool to be positioned into a downhole environment is disclosed. The mud pulser tool includes a control valve that is selectively opened to allow fluid to flow through the mud pulser tool or selectively closed to restrict the fluid flow, wherein the control valve is selectively opened or closed to produce a mud pulse signal transmitted through the fluid. The mud pulser tool also includes a sensor system to measure a pressure drop across the control valve. In one example, the mud pulser tool includes a control system to selectively open or close the control valve to adjust the pressure drop to produce a selected pressure drop across the control valve. |
| US08689883B2 |
Adjustable venturi valve
A gas-handling valve for use in the application where adjustable maximum critical flow rate is required. The valve is a venturi valve and has an annular flow path formed between a housing and a plug. The plug and housing are movable relative to each other to form at least two different throat dimensions in the valve. In one aspect, the throat diversion of the valve is self adjusting. In another aspect, the valve is usable in a gas lift or steam injection well. |
| US08689882B2 |
Flexible hang-off arrangement for a catenary riser
Flexible hang-off arrangement is provided for a catenary riser suspended from an offshore or inshore platform, which includes floating or fixed platforms, vessels or/and buoys. The bending loads in the top segments of the said riser are reduced by incorporating a pivot at the riser hang-off. Pressure containing welded, bolted, rolled or swaged pipe spools transfer fluids, including hydrocarbons between the riser and the platform. Along significant spool lengths the tangents to the center lines of said spools are orthogonal to and offset from the tangent to the center line of the riser at the hang-off. The said pressure containing spools include arbitrary looped, spiral and helicoidal designs that are subject to torsion. |
| US08689880B2 |
Multipart sliding joint for floating rig
A system for interconnecting a floating rig and a riser assembly includes a rotating control device permitting pressurization of the riser assembly; and a sliding joint connected to the rotating control device, the sliding joint being longitudinally extendable and compressible while the riser assembly is pressurized. Another system includes a sliding joint including more than two telescoping sleeves, and the sliding joint being longitudinally extendable and compressible while the riser assembly is pressurized at the surface. An apparatus includes a sliding joint with multiple sets of telescoping sleeves, each set including at least two of the sleeves. Another apparatus includes a sliding joint with multiple radially overlapping seal assemblies. |
| US08689879B2 |
Fluid displacement methods and apparatus for hydrocarbons in subsea production tubing
The method for subsea well intervention includes creating a lubricator section within the production tubing of the well. The lubricator section can then be flushed of hydrocarbons facilitating further well intervention from the open water. An intervention device that facilitates flushing production tubing that has equipment, such as electric submersible pumps, is deployed in the wellhead, for example in the valve tree. |
| US08689877B2 |
Downhole tool
A cleaning tool (1) for use in cleaning ferrous material from a wellbore has a magnetic cleaning element (14) mounted to a tool body (2) within a slot (5) using a releasable concealed interference fit fastener assembly (15) comprising a fastener member having a head (16), and a shank (17) with a configured end (18) and a deformable fastener ring (20) adapted to fit closely over the shank, and a press-fit collar (21) adapted to deform the deformable fastener ring upon the configured end of the shank when assembled, and wherein the respective head and collar are each flanged to permit an interference fit with a corresponding contact surface of the tool body around said slot. |
| US08689870B2 |
Use of methylhydroxyethyl cellulose as cement additive
Methylhydroxyethyl cellulose may be used as an additive in cement slurries in the treatment of wells to prevent or reduce the occurrence of gas channeling. In addition to acting as a gas control additive, methylhydroxyethyl cellulose controls fluid loss, minimizes free fluid and stabilizes foam during cementing of the well. |
| US08689868B2 |
Tractor communication/control and select fire perforating switch simulations
Apparatus and methods for controlling and communicating with one or more tools in a downhole tool string including a tractor, an auxiliary tractor tool, a logging tool, a safety sub, a release mechanism, a unit containing sensors for monitoring downhole conditions, a setting tool, and a perforating gun. Control and communication are accomplished by sending signals from the surface to control switches in the control units on the tool, with redundant switches for safety, to state machines in the respective control units, each state machine returning a signal verifying switch status to the surface. The state machine need not return a signal including a unique identifier. |
| US08689867B2 |
Method and apparatus for pipe-conveyed well logging
A well logging instrument deployment device according to this aspect of the invention includes a housing configured to be coupled to a pipe string. A latch disposed in the housing and is configured to retain a well logging instrument in a first longitudinal position inside the pipe string. An actuator is configured to release the latch to enable longitudinal movement of the well logging instrument inside the pipe string. A signal detector is operatively coupled to the actuator and is the configured to detect a command signal for operating the actuator. |
| US08689866B2 |
Automated systems and methods for make-up and break-out of tubulars
An automated tubular handling system adapted to make-up or break-out tubulars that includes a rotary drive adapted to operatively grip a tubular to be connected to or disconnected from a tubular string, a controller adapted to receive and process data indicative of a rotation, torque, and minimum time value associated with a make-up or a break-out of the tubular string, and a user interface adapted to convey the received data, the predetermined values, or both, of the tubular make-up or break-out to an operator. The controller compares the rotation, torque, and minimum time values to acceptable predetermined values to determine when the make-up or the break-out is complete. Automated methods are also disclosed. |
| US08689864B2 |
Activation device
A device for activating a downhole tool is described. The device comprises a first elongate member defining a toothed surface portion, a second elongate member defining a toothed surface portion and at least one pinion arrangement The/each pinion arrangement engages the toothed surface portions of the first and second members such that movement of one member in a first direction results in movement of the other member in a second direction, opposite the first direction. |
| US08689860B2 |
Vehicular air conditioning apparatus
In a vehicular air conditioning apparatus, a first blower unit is connected by a connection duct to a side of a casing constituted by respective air passages. On a lower portion of the casing, a second blower unit different from the first blower unit is connected. A center plate is disposed centrally in a lateral direction of the casing. Air is supplied from the first blower unit to the interior of the casing, whereby cool air cooled by an evaporator and warm air heated by a heater core are mixed together and blown respectively and separately to a driver's seat side and a passenger seat side of the front seats. Also, Air supplied from the second blower unit to the interior of the casing, after being adjusted to a predetermined temperature in the evaporator and the heater core, is supplied to a rear seat side of the vehicle. |
| US08689854B2 |
Decomposition conduit fabrication method
A method of fabricating a decomposition conduit with an in-line static mixer, the method including molding a decomposition conduit housing around a sand core by inserting molding material into a cavity between a decomposition conduit housing mold and the sand core, where the sand core includes a static mixer and, where the act of molding the decomposition conduit housing is operative to mount the static mixer to the molded decomposition conduit housing. |
| US08689850B2 |
Pedestal mounted ultrasonic welding device
The sonotrode and anvil of co-pending application Ser. No. 12/925,652, for advanced ultrasonic welding of work pieces, are readily incorporated into new form-fill-seal machines, but existing machines with heat-seal stations pose difficult problems for swapping of the sealing packages. Kits enabling heat station replacement, with the further improved sonotrode and anvil disclosed herein, comprise: a housing; a linear rail fixed thereto; anvil and sonotrode support members; and a parallel gripper. Each of the anvil and sonotrode support members is slidably attached to the rail(s) and are also connected to a respective piston of the gripper, permitting actuation of each through cycling of the gripper pistons. The improved sonotrode/anvil combination each comprise a corresponding plurality of energy directors arranged into a three-dimensional grid pattern to produce a narrower weld region, but one exhibiting greater durability, thereby permitting use of less packaging material, and which may also weld a company logo into the workpieces. |
| US08689844B2 |
Tire with crown comprising a layer of very high modulus rubber mix
A tire includes two beads configured to come into contact with a mounting rim and two sidewalls extending the beads radially to the outside, the two sidewalls being joined together in a crown. A crown reinforcement extends axially between two axial ends and is surmounted by a tread. The crown includes, radially on the inside of the tread and radially on the outside of a carcass reinforcement, at least one first layer of rubber mix having a modulus of elasticity which is greater than or equal to 50 MPa, this first layer extending from the median plane of the tire axially to the outside, on both sides of the median plane, only as far as an axial distance from the median plane which is less than the axial distance of the axial end of the crown reinforcement from the median plane. |
| US08689843B2 |
Snow performance peaks
A tire is disclosed having a tread extending from a first tread edge to a second tread edge and having a plurality of blocks defining a plurality of lateral grooves. The lateral grooves have a groove bottom defining a radial groove depth. A first biting side extends outwardly from the groove bottom to a first biting edge, and a first non-biting side extending outwardly from the groove bottom to a first non-biting edge. At least one peak is disposed in at least one of the lateral grooves. The peak extends outwardly from the groove bottom and terminates radially at an outer end and axially at a distance from the equatorial plane less than or equal to one half of the tread width. The peak has a height between 25 percent and 75 percent of the depth of its lateral groove. Multiple peaks may be disposed within a groove. |
| US08689840B2 |
Fragmentation of agglomerated fine solids
Agglomerated fine solids, e.g., agglomerated pellets (2B), that are located within a restricted space or pinch point of a conveyance system (1), and that impede the free-flow of fine solids from one vessel (4) to another vessel (10), are detected and fragmented through the coordinated use of a flow detector (12), breaker plate (8) and press (6). The flow detector (12) senses an interruption or diminishment in the flow of the fine solids and signals and actuates the press (6) which in turn engages and fragments the agglomeration. The breaker plate (8) is sized and configured to trap major agglomerates. |
| US08689839B2 |
Apparatus for receiving insulation
A conduit for facilitating the installation of insulation is disclosed. In one embodiment, the conduit comprises a body having one or more ribs and a collar having a forward end taper. In another embodiment, two or more pieces of conduit are joined to form a conduit network, with at least one piece of conduit comprising a body having one or more ribs and a collar having a forward end taper. |
| US08689838B2 |
High temperature fire sleeve
A flexible hose for conveying fluids and suitable for high temperature environments, the hose comprising a core tube, a thermal insulating layer surrounding the core tube, a metal layer surrounding the thermal insulating layer, and a vented jacket surrounding the cover layer. The thermal insulating layer may be a fibrous material such as a silica fiber. The metal layer may also be a chemical resistant layer and be thermally stable up to at least about 550° F. The vented jacket may be a wire braid having interstices therein and formed from a corrosion resistant material. |
| US08689837B1 |
Low profile downspout extension and landscape drainage assembly
A downspout extension has a low-profile to direct rainwater away from a building. A transition adapter can be used to transition from a generally circular or square cross-section of a downspout to a low-profile cross-section of a corrugated duct of the extension. The extension can include internal supports to withstand being stepped on and can have a generally rectangular or trapezoidal cross-section with a longer width than height. The corrugated duct can also be comprised of integrated accordion corrugation sections and transverse non-collapsible ribs to give the corrugated duct extension greater flexibility. The extension can be connected to a downspout using a flexible elbow duct, a downspout connector, and a downspout adapter. The transition adapter of the extension can also be connected directly to a downspout. |
| US08689836B2 |
Marking system for a flexible hose
Apparatus and method for attaching an encapsulated marker to a flexible hose, such as a hose or cable. The method involves providing a flexible hose (100) having a rubber or plastic outer cover (202) positioned over an inner layer (203, 204). An annular segment of the outer cover is separated and removed to form an annular groove in the outer cover. A marker (101) is then positioned over the inner layer (203, 204) within the groove and a transparent encapsulating component (201) applied over the marker. A containment means (200) is then overlaid on the encapsulating component and overlaps onto a region of the outer cover either side of the groove. The cover assembly is then heated at elevated temperature. After cooling, the containment means (200) is removed. The encapsulated marker assembly is therefore provided which is chemically bonded or fused to the outer cover (202) of the flexible hose and is aligned flush with the external surface of the flexible hose. |
| US08689827B2 |
Fuel supply apparatus
A support shaft connects between a flange and a pump unit. An intermediate member, which connects between the support shaft and pump unit, enables a relative positional change between the support shaft and the pump unit in an axial direction of the support shaft. The intermediate member limits a relative positional change between the support shaft and the pump unit in a circumferential direction of the support shaft. A resilient member is received in the support shaft and exerts a restoring force in an axial direction of the support shaft to urge the pump unit, which is movable relative to the support shaft in the axial direction, toward a bottom portion of the fuel tank. |
| US08689826B2 |
Valve control hand wheel with position indicator and magnetic couple feature
A hermetically-sealed valve position indicator is provided with a valve control handwheel. Indicator includes a magnetic-coupling with a stationary mount for the valve control handwheel. During operation of valve control handwheel, its handwheel and shaft rotate along with a housing, housing cover, housing window, primary shaft, and drive gear about the actuator's central axis of rotation—clockwise or counterclockwise. Drive gear engages with drive train to rotate a needle across a dial face to indicate the position of a valve. Drive train includes two gears rotatably attached to a secondary shaft and an indicator gear attached to a back end of sleeve slid over a front portion of primary shaft. The needle is disposed on the front end of sleeve with the dial face positioned between the indicator gear and the needle. |
| US08689820B2 |
Pneumatic system for residential use
The present invention relates to a Pneumatic System that can be employed within the residential environment. The system includes both a section mode and a pressure mode. Both of these modes, in turn, have both a low and a high pressure range. A variety of applications are disclosed for use in conjunction with the various modes of the system. These various applications are described in greater detail hereinafter. |
| US08689817B2 |
Welded diaphragm valve
A diaphragm valve including a valve body, a diaphragm assembly and an actuator assembly having a housing body that isolates the actuator from the ambient atmosphere. The diaphragm assembly is welded to the valve body to reduce and/or eliminate fluid leakage around the diaphragm assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the housing body for the actuator assembly may be welded to the valve body to reduce fluid leakage. The welding may be performed using ultrasonic welding techniques. |
| US08689816B2 |
Fuel tank vent valve assembly and method of assembly
A vent valve assembly includes a first housing component, a second housing component, and a third housing component, as well as a first valve and a second valve. The first, second, and third housing components are configured to assemble together along one directional axis with the second housing component, the first valve and the second valve between the first and third housing components and with the second valve laterally-spaced from the first valve. The assembled first, second, and third housing components define a nonlinear vapor flow path that redirects vapor from the first valve to the second valve, thereby reducing an overall height of the vent valve assembly. |
| US08689812B2 |
Methods and loadport for purging a substrate carrier
In a first aspect, a substrate carrier is provided that includes an enclosure adapted to be sealable and to house at least one substrate. The substrate carrier includes a first port leading into the enclosure and adapted to allow a flow of gas into the enclosure while the substrate carrier is closed. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US08689810B2 |
Dust extractor, in the context of the transfer of powdery products, installation, dust extraction method, transfer method, and sterilization method using said device
A device installation and methods for extracting dust during the transfer of pulverulent products from a first container to a second container, the combination of the first container and of the second container forming, with the dust extraction device, a closed containment volume with connection between the two containers. A hollow connector with a side wall between its two ends defines an external wall and an internal wall so that the connector is pierced with several inlet pipes connected to hoses fed with a stream of pressurized fluid and also pierced with at least one fluid discharge pipe. The pipes projecting from said external wall of the connectors and opening onto the internal wall via orifices allows fluid to be introduced, the orifices being oriented relative to one another in such a way as to cause the fluid to flow in a cyclone within the connector, carrying with it any pulverulent product that remains on the internal wall and/or upstream and/or downstream of said connector. |
| US08689804B2 |
Article including identification information for use in an electrically heated smoking system
A smoking article includes identification information encoded on the smoking article. The smoking article can be used with an electrically heated smoking system having a detector for detecting the smoking article and distinguishing the smoking article from other articles based on the identification information. A cleaning article includes identification information encoded on the cleaning article. The cleaning article cleans an electrically heated smoking system having a detector for detecting the cleaning article and distinguishing the cleaning article from other articles based on the identification information. An electrically heated smoking system for receiving an article configured for use with the smoking system includes: a cavity for receiving the article having identification information encoded thereon, a heating element, a power supply, electrical hardware, and a detector capable of detecting the presence of the article in the cavity and distinguishing the article from other articles based on the identification information. |
| US08689802B2 |
Combination smoking and drinking apparatus
The combination smoking and drinking apparatus includes a generally upright consumable liquid retaining container with an elongated conduit formed therebetween. An inlet is coupled to one end of the conduit and has a combustion compartment therein. Additionally, an outlet is coupled to an opposite end of the conduit such that applying a vacuum to the outlet pressurizes the conduit and draws smoke from the combustion compartment directly through the conduit to the outlet without mixing the smoke with the consumable liquid in the container. |
| US08689800B2 |
Magnetic navigation control apparatus
A magnetic navigation control apparatus includes a sensing unit, a control unit and a magnetic field generating unit. The sensing unit generates a sensing signal according to the position of a magnetic element. The control unit is electrically connected with the sensing unit and generates a first control signal and a second control signal according to the sensing signal. The magnetic field generating unit is electrically connected with the control unit and has a housing, a plurality of interpoles, and a plurality of short poles. The interpoles are disposed in the housing. The short poles are disposed between the interpoles evenly. The magnetic field generating unit generates a navigation signal according to the first control signal, thereby controlling the magnetic element to move in at least one direction within a target region. The magnetic navigation control apparatus has greater magnetic navigation effects, and can thus reduce the cost. |
| US08689798B2 |
Protective medical device cushion and method for use thereof
A protective cushion for preventing a medical device from damaging the skin of a patient and a method for using the cushion. The cushion includes a bottom portion made of soft material and configured for resting against the patient's body and separating the medical device from the patient's body; and a top portion configured for receiving the medical device. The soft material can be resistant to bacterial growth. The bottom portion can have a concave curvature to fit against the patient's body. The top portion can include an opening shaped for receiving the medical device. The opening can separate the top portion into first and second side portions. The top portion can include a fastening system for securing the medical device in the protective cushion. The fastening system can include a tab or the opening shape. The cushion can include a cover for covering the opening in the top portion. |
| US08689797B2 |
Mouthguard formed of propylene/alpha-olefin polymer elastomer
A self-customizable dental appliance adapted to lie within the mouth of a person including occlusal pads with a connecting arch or a u-shaped style base with upstanding labial and lingual walls. The appliance is formed of a semi-crystalline polyolefin polymer or crystallizable blend. In one embodiment, the appliance is formed of elastomeric propylene-ethylene polypropylene, optionally including high density polypropylene. An optional occlusal lifting pad can be used in the self-customizable dental appliance. |
| US08689794B2 |
Dental shield device
A dental shield for use during intubation to protect teeth, including a plurality of tooth segments, each segment having a male connector and a female connector located on opposite sides for the purpose of attaching each segment to an adjacent segment, and each segment formed from a rigid material defining a tooth-shaped channel containing a deformable material bound to the tooth surface such that a number of tooth segments are assemblable into the dental shield device. |
| US08689793B2 |
Method and apparatus for restraining a patient's leg during leg surgical and interventional procedures
An improved method and apparatus for restraining a patient's leg during knee surgery or similar procedure features and improved restraining member that is attachable to an operating room table. The restraining member has a lower concave portion that engages the upper portion and sides of the patient's leg. The restraining member has an upper convex portion that is reinforced with a plurality of ridges. The concave portion can be fitted with an inflatable bladder. The concave portion in other embodiments is fitted with a belt arrangement that enables different degrees of constriction to be imparted to the leg. |
| US08689782B2 |
Simmer plate attached to burner
A gas burner includes a burner body and a simmer plate assembly. The burner body includes a central cavity in which at least one flame is provided. The simmer plate assembly includes a plate portion and a base portion configured to support the plate portion. The assembly is configured to be at least partially and removably inserted into the central cavity. The plate portion is configured to act as a barrier between the at least one flame and a heated object placed above the gas burner. |
| US08689778B1 |
Masonry cutting device
The masonry cutting device generally includes a portable, lightweight frame having an integral upper cutting edge and a center space, a lifting device supported by the frame within the center space and below the upper cutting edge, wherein the lifting device moves a lower cutting edge towards the upper cutting edge for cutting a masonry item between thereof. The lower cutting edge is attached to a guide member which includes slotted ends for travelling along the frame to keep the lower cutting edge in alignment with the upper cutting edge. The lifting device is generally comprised of a shortened, hydraulic jack having a release member, manually-operable handle, and optional spacer. Also included are bias members for exerting a downward force upon the guide member and a catch tray generally comprised of a wired grid that is removable upon the frame and used to catch the cut masonry items. |
| US08689773B2 |
Toy projectile launcher
A toy projectile launching system that launches a toy projectile. The launcher has a handle. The handle is offset between two supports. A first arm element is coupled to the first support. A first elastic loop is anchored to the first arm element. The first elastic loop has a looped section that extends into an open area. A second arm element is coupled to the second support. A second elastic loop is anchored to the second arm element. The second elastic loop has a looped section that extends into the open area. The looped sections of the first elastic loop and the second elastic loop are spaced to receive and engage opposing hook elements on the toy projectile when the toy projectile is manually drawn through the open area. |
| US08689772B2 |
Fuel injector with telescoping armature overtravel feature
A common rail fuel injector includes a fuel inlet, a set of nozzle outlets, a drain outlet, a nozzle chamber and a needle control chamber. A needle control valve includes a ceramic control valve member movable between a closed position in contact with a flat valve seat to block the needle control chamber from the drain outlet, and an open position at which the needle control chamber is fluidly connected to the drain outlet. A solenoid actuator is mounted in the injector body and includes an armature movable between an overtravel position and an energized position, but the armature has a stable un-energized position between the overtravel position and the energized position. A needle valve member is positioned in the injector body and includes an opening hydraulic surface exposed to fluid pressure in the nozzle chamber, and a closing hydraulic surface exposed to fluid pressure in the needle control chamber. Armature overtravel is facilitated by a telescoping armature pin that includes a stem affixed to the armature and telescopically received in a pusher in contact with the ceramic control valve member. |
| US08689771B2 |
Shape memory alloy-based device for controlling or monitoring pressure in a system
A device is provided that may be adapted to control or monitor the pressure level of a fluid system. The device includes a member composed of a shape memory alloy in a superelastic state. The member is configured to undergo a phase change from a high modulus Austenitic phase to a low modulus Martensitic phase and stretch in response to an activation stress. In one embodiment, the member defines two ends such that one end of the member is operatively connected to a fixed point. Another end of the member is operatively connected to a movable element. As the member stretches in response to the activation stress, the movable element is translated relative to the fixed point. In another embodiment, the member includes two plates with respective holes that are selectively aligned when the first and second plates stretch or deform in response to the activation stress. |
| US08689769B2 |
Compression-braking system
A method is disclosed for controlling compression-braking performance of an engine having a piston in a combustion cylinder. The method may include providing a valve in fluid communication with the combustion cylinder and at least one valve actuator operable to control the valve to perform compression-braking by opening the valve, which may include opening the valve to a first peak-valve-opening during a compression stroke of the piston and opening the valve to a second peak-valve-opening before a second half of an expansion stroke of the piston. The method may also include determining a target value for a stress in the at least one valve actuator. Additionally, the method may include designing the magnitude and timing of the first peak-valve-opening as a function of the target for the stress in the at least one valve actuator. |
| US08689767B1 |
Method for operating homogeneous charge compression ignition engines using conventional gasoline
A method for the operation of homogeneous charge compression ignition engines (HCCI) using gasoline or similar single-stage ignition fuels. Partial fuel stratification (PFS), intake pressure boosting and controlled BDC-intake temperatures, typically in the range of 95° C. to about 125° C., are used to reduce combustion pressure rise rates (PRR), and therefore, the knocking propensity of homogeneous charge compression ignition engines operating on gasoline or similar fuels. |
| US08689766B2 |
Spherical two stroke engine system
A positive displacement internal combustion engine with the strongest mechanism for converting thermal energy of combustion gases to rotational motion, being composed of a body with spherical combustion chamber, and three spatial eccentrics being placed in said spherical chamber. The mechanism is particularly suitable for heavily loaded detonation and homogeneous charge compression ignition engines. |
| US08689764B2 |
Rotary engine with exhaust gas supplemental compounding
A rotary engine which provides a supplemental phase of compression between a first phase of compression and a second phase of compression. |
| US08689762B2 |
Cylinder head rocker arm stand repair and process
A process for remanufacturing a cylinder head that includes a worn or damaged rocker arm stand adapted to receive a rocker shaft to which at least one rocker arm is mounted, the steps including machining a channel in a surface of the worn or damaged rocker arm stand, securing an insert into the channel, and machining the insert to form a remanufactured inner facing surface. The remanufactured cylinder head includes at least one rocker arm stand that has a machined channel with a remanufactured insert secured therein, the rocker shaft being disposed adjacent the inner facing surface, not the rocker arm stand. |
| US08689756B2 |
Method for generating and applying a cleaning voltage pulse to a stop connection, and an associated digitally controlled magnetic ignition circuit
A method for generating and applying at least one voltage pulse, which provides a cleaning effect for a stop switch, to a stop connection assigned to the stop switch, which stop connection is provided on a digitally controlled magnetic ignition circuit of an electrical device, wherein the magnetic ignition circuit generates a voltage wave series from half waves, the amplitude of which decreases over time, and/or at least one voltage pulse in a medium voltage range, wherein if a voltage wave series is generated, at least one later half wave in the voltage wave series, which half wave follows the first half wave temporally and therefore has a lower amplitude, is applied as a voltage pulse to the stop connection, and/or in that if at least one voltage pulse in a medium voltage range of 12 V to 50 V is generated, the one or more voltage pulses are applied to the stop connection and thereby exert a cleaning effect on the stop switch. |
| US08689753B2 |
Locking mechanism for variable actuation using a shuttle pin and return spring
The roller finger follower employs two independent lost motion arms and a coupling device that locks both arms. A coupling element allows for changing from locked to unlocked mode. Components of the coupling element include a shuttle pin with a head, a shank and a cutout on which a rod is positioned, a coil spring which surrounds the outside diameter of the shuttle pin shank, and an end cap. By positioning the spring on the shuttle pin shank, a large spring diameter and short spring height can be used which allows for compact packaging. Also, a low spring rate is required. |
| US08689752B2 |
Vertical-type air-cooled OHV engine
A vertical-type air-cooled OHV engine includes a valve operating system and has a shroud guiding cooling air, which is generated by a cooling fan driven by a crankshaft such that the cooling air flows in an up-down direction with respect to a cylinder head. Intake and exhaust valves are arranged respectively on opposite sides of a vertical plane that is parallel to an axis of the crankshaft and that includes an axis of a cylinder bore. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a vertical-type air-cooled OHV engine capable of evenly cooling both of intake and exhaust valves without changing a route of cooling air. |
| US08689750B2 |
Camshaft phasing device
A camshaft phase adjustment device comprises a housing receiving a camshaft. A driving gear member has a first gear and a camshaft receiving portion. The driving gear member transfers motion from the driveshaft to the first gear, which is meshed with a second gear. A second and third gear are mounted on an axle parallel to the camshaft. The second gear and third gear rotate with the same angular velocity. The third gear transfers motion to a fourth gear. The fourth gear is coupled to the camshaft for transferring angular motion to the camshaft such that the camshaft rotates with the angular velocity of the fourth gear. An actuator rotates the housing about the axis of the camshaft. |
| US08689748B2 |
Valve timing control apparatus of internal combustion engine
In a valve timing control apparatus, phase-retard and phase-advance hydraulic chambers are defined among a plurality of shoes formed in a housing and a plurality of vanes formed integral with a rotor fixed to a camshaft. The rotor has a large-diameter portion formed between a first group of adjacent vanes and a small-diameter portion formed between a second group of adjacent vanes. The innermost end of a shoe of the shoes, opposed to the outer peripheral surface of the small-diameter portion, is configured to protrude radially inward rather than the innermost end of a shoe of the shoes, opposed to the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion. A lock pin is located in the large-diameter portion of the rotor, whereas a lock hole, with which the lock pin slides into and out of engagement, is located in the inner face of a sprocket. |
| US08689747B2 |
Valve timing control device
A valve timing control device comprises a drive-side rotational member synchronously rotatable with a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine; a driven-side rotational member mounted coaxially with the drive-side rotational member and synchronously rotatable with a camshaft for opening and closing a valve of the internal combustion engine; a fluid pressure chamber defined by the drive-side rotational member and the driven-side rotational member; a partition provided in at least one of the drive-side rotational member and the driven-side rotational member for dividing the fluid pressure chamber into a retarded angle chamber and an advanced angle chamber; a fluid feeding/discharging mechanism for controlling feed/discharge of working fluid relative to the fluid pressure chamber; a locking mechanism for restricting a relative rotational phase of the driven-side rotational member relative to the drive-side rotational member to a predetermined phase between a most retarded angle phase and a most advanced angle phase; and an urging mechanism for constantly exerting an urging force to the drive-side rotational member and the driven-side rotational member to displace the relative rotational phase to the side of the most retarded angle phase. |
| US08689745B2 |
Split-cycle air-hybrid engine having a threshold minimum tank pressure
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. The engine is operable in an Air Expander and Firing (AEF) mode. In the AEF mode, the pressure in the air reservoir is greater than or equal to approximately 5 bar absolute, preferably greater than or equal to approximately 7 bar absolute, and more preferably greater than or equal to approximately 10 bar absolute. |
| US08689743B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
A piston for an internal combustion engine has a piston head and a piston skirt. The piston head has a circumferential ring belt and a circumferential cooling channel. The piston skirt has a working surface assigned to its major thrust side and to its minor thrust side. A bore that proceeds from the cooling channel is provided, which ends in the working surface assigned to the major thrust side, and is disposed at an incline, in such a manner that the bore exit encloses an acute angle (α) with the center axis (M) of the piston. An opening is formed in the working surface, and a deflection surface inclined relative to the working surface is provided between the bore and the bore exit. The working surface assigned to the major thrust side has a depression which forms at least one oil capture region above the opening. |
| US08689742B2 |
Integrated coolant flow control and heat exchanger device
A coolant flow control system (100, 200) includes an integrated coolant flow control and heat exchange device (10, 50). The device includes a valve body part (20, 60) and a heat exchange part (30, 70). According to the system, all the coolant flow from the engine is delivered back to the engine after passing through the valve body part (20, 60) and then the heat exchange part (30, 70) in which it passes over the heat exchanger part (40, 80). The valve body part (20, 60) by positioning of the coolant flow wall (26, 66) allows multiple flow modes and coolant paths to branch out (or converge) from (or to) thereby controlling the flow in all coolant circuit branches. |
| US08689740B2 |
Pet wash tub
A pet wash tub includes a funnel-type hair-diverter arrangement established at all corners near the drain, to slope from the front and sides of the tub, angled downwardly towards the drain. The tub is located inside a pet wash station, which includes a wash room and an equipment room. Specifically, the tub is located in the wash room that includes a floor with a slope that acts to rinse water spilled onto the floor under an opening under a dividing wall between the wash room and the equipment room. A collection trough is located in the equipment room to collect the water as it drains from the wash room. Further, the equipment room includes a control panel and hose extensions for air and washing water/soap such that a user can activate the various systems depending on preference while washing a pet. |
| US08689739B2 |
Reptile vertical display
The present disclosure provides a system and method for displaying animals in temperature controlled enclosures. |
| US08689736B2 |
Automatic milk separation
An indicating system for use in a milking system including an automated milking machine with a method for detecting mastitis of a milking animal in an automated milking machine, includes a first device for automatically obtaining and determining a first indicator of mastitis; a second device for automatically obtaining and determining a second indicator of mastitis; a processor operatively connected to the first and second devices and configured for automatically i) evaluating the first and second indicators of mastitis, and ii) identifying, based on the result the evaluation of the first and second indicators of mastitis, the need for a third indicator of mastitis. |
| US08689730B2 |
Robotic painting system and method
A robotic painting system includes an applicator, a first paint metering device in fluid communication with the applicator, a second paint metering device in fluid communication with the paint applicator, and a paint supply in fluid communication with each the paint metering devices to fill at least one of the paint metering devices with a desired amount of paint, wherein each of the paint metering devices is electrostatically isolated from the paint supply, and wherein a color change time and a paint waste are minimized and a cleaning operation of the system is optimized. |
| US08689729B2 |
Apparatus for coating stents
An apparatus is provided for forming coatings on stents. The apparatus includes a temperature adjusting element that can increase or decrease the temperature of the stent. |
| US08689728B2 |
Apparatus for holding a medical device during coating
The present invention is directed towards the holding of medical devices during manufacture to enable the application of therapeutic and/or protective coatings. More specifically, the present invention provides medical device holders that securely retain stents and other medical devices during the application of a coating while minimizing compressive and tensile forces applied to the stents. The invention avoids disruptions to coating quality due to holder blockage during coating deposition. The invention discloses an improved device containing a mandrel and frame that may improve coating uniformity by eliminating shadowing from the frame of the medical device holder when applying coatings to stents and other medical devices. |
| US08689727B2 |
Anti-oxidation spray methods and spray equipment for steel billets
The examples described herein provide methods and equipment for an anti-oxidation spraying on a steel billet. In some examples, when the billet at the temperature of 400° C.-1000° C. enters the predetermined spraying region, a plurality of anti-oxidation spraying devices are used to perform an anti-oxidation spray on the billet in two or more directions, thereby forming directly an anti-oxidation coating on the steel billet at 400° C.-1000° C. By using the example method and equipment described herein, on-line spraying of anti-oxidation coating on the steel billet can be performed under high-temperature condition, thereby reducing an oxidation burning loss rate of the steel billet. |
| US08689721B2 |
Vertically installed spar and construction methods
A vertically installed Spar-type floater for offshore wind turbine and related construction method are provided. The floating system is a gravity stabilized deep-draft floater including a plurality of vertically extending columns, each column containing a ballast material; a ballast tank coupled to the lower end of each of the columns; a top deck having a plurality of through-bores approximate its periphery coupled to the upper end of each of the columns; a wind turbine assembly supported by the top deck at the center; a plurality of mooring lines linking the floating system to the sea floor. The floating system has a temporary vertically towing configuration which allows the entire floating wind turbine system to be assembled at a quayside and towed vertically to an offshore site, and self-installed into operating configuration. |
| US08689718B2 |
Rigid quick connect mooring device
A rigid mooring system that instantly secures pontoons, float planes, boats, and other forms of craft to a variety of dockage types and consists of two identical, yet separately positioned devices which together moor a craft safely away from the dockage. Barrel plate hinges permanently secure the two devices to the dockage allowing both the devices and the attached craft vertical motion but prohibit parallel or lateral movement. Each device has two reinforced arms coming together to form a right triangle shaped rigid body with one arm projecting further, bending into a curved attaching end. |
| US08689717B2 |
Emergency repair plug to slow down water inflow through an opening
An emergency repair plug for sealing an opening in a boat hull, comprises a conical body made of a solid foam, spongy cellular material that is compressible by hand and able to return to its original shape. The conical body is compressible by hand to a smaller dimension so that a portion of the conical body larger than an opening to be plugged can be inserted into the opening. The conical body is able to return to its larger size after compression, thereby to be wedged in the opening to slow down water inflow through the opening. |
| US08689715B2 |
Actuator
An actuator (10) for use in controlling movement of a component (22) of a seagoing vessel comprises a cylinder (12) for coupling to a vessel hull (14) and an actuator shaft (18). A distal end (20) of the shaft (18) is coupled to the component whose movement is to be controlled and, in use, a control force (Fc) is applied to the shaft (18) to control movement of the shaft (18) from a first position, retracted, position to a second, extended, position. The actuator (10) is compliant in response to an opposing force exceeding a selected force to prevent or mitigate damage to the component (22) and/or the actuator 10 which may otherwise result from the opposing force. |
| US08689710B2 |
Combustion system with precombustor
A precombustor having a chamber having a first end and a second end, and an inlet configured to deliver a substantially parallel flow of solid fuel surrounded by oxygen at the first end. The first end further includes a recirculation step and the second end fluidly communicates with a furnace. The inlet and the recirculation step are arranged to form a recirculation zone of at least a portion of the solid fuel and the oxygen. A combustion system and method for operating a combustion system are also disclosed. |
| US08689706B2 |
Leg socket
The leg socket has a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart ribs extending along an interior wall. Each rib has a concavely curved surface extending longitudinally and disposed on a common radius of the wall to provide contact with a cylindrical table leg over a surface. |
| US08689700B2 |
Device for handling banknotes with a virtual auxiliary cassette for exchanging partial funds cassette
The invention relates to a device for handling banknotes comprising an input and output unit, a control unit, at least one money cassette, a reject cassette and a transport unit to transport the banknotes. In addition, a stock counter is provided that indicates the current quantity of banknotes in the money cassette. When an incorrect withdrawal occurs after at least one banknote is removed from the money cassette, the banknotes from this incorrect withdrawal are transported to the reject cassette. A reject counter is assigned to the money cassette that indicates the total number of banknotes removed from said money cassette and taken to the reject cassette, wherein the value of said reject counter is increased by the value of the banknotes transported to the reject cassette when the incorrect withdrawal occurs. A virtual auxiliary cassette is set up in the software of the control unit. |
| US08689698B2 |
Methods and systems for multi-dimensional motion
An apparatus includes: a fixed primary anchoring element, a beam mount movably connected to the primary anchoring element, a beam connected to the beam mount, a vessel mount movably connected to the beam, a vessel connected to the vessel mount, the vessel being movable along at least a vertical axis, and a control unit within the vessel. The control unit is configured to accept control input from a passenger within the vessel and transmit at least one control signal to cause the beam to move relative to the primary anchoring element, the vessel mount to move relative to the beam, and the vessel to move relative to the vessel mount independently. |
| US08689697B2 |
Simulated firearm and cartridge for simulated firearm
Provided is a cartridge for an electrically-ignited simulated firearm and a simulated firearm using the cartridge remarkably similar to a real firearm and a cartridge used in a real firearm, wherein the simulated firearm emits a discharge sound similar to a real firearm, generates muzzle flash and smoke from a muzzle and is capable of loading and ejecting the cartridge, and the cartridge is safe and reusable. An inner member 120 that is slidable inside an outer case 110 of a cartridge 100 and loaded with powder is formed into a stepped cylindrical shape with a small diameter section capable of partially projecting from an opening 112 of the outer case 110, and has a front powder chamber 122 and a rear powder chamber 123 that communicate with each other via a fuse hole 124, a base member 130 is formed to fit in the outer case 110 via an insulating member 131, and an ignition member 140 is configured to be installed between the inner member 120 and the base member 130. |
| US08689694B2 |
Flying bomb
A flying bomb includes a standardized bomb casing formed of steel and having a nose opening and a tail opening. A thin penetrator is disposed in the bomb casing in order to achieve high effectiveness with little collateral damage when the flying bomb strikes a target. A distance between the tip of the penetrator and the nose opening is greater than 100 mm. |
| US08689689B2 |
System and method for marking sheet materials
An apparatus for applying a marking to an elongated sheet material is provided. The apparatus includes a processing machine through which an elongated length of the sheet material is passed. A marking system is arranged to apply a marking to the elongated length of sheet material passing through the processing machine. The marking system comprises at least one spray gun and a pump for supplying marking fluid to the spray gun. The pump is operable at selectively variable speeds. A controller controls the speed of the pump based upon a speed at which the sheet material is passed through the processing machine. |
| US08689684B2 |
Automatic strap loading assembly for strapping machine
A strap loading assembly for a strapping machine provides a feed path for the strap material. The loading assembly includes a first rail and a second rail movable between a deployed position and a stowed position. The second rail, when in the deployed position, confronts the first rail and defines a strap guide with the first rail. The second rail, when in the stowed position opens the strap guide. A link operably connects the first and second rails. Strap material in the strap guide, when in tension, exerts a force on the first rail to move the link which moves the second rail from the deployed position to the stowed position. A strapping machine with a strap loading assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08689683B2 |
Opening assembly for pressing chambers
A door opening assembly of a bale press including a first arm member having a first end and a second end hingedly coupled at the first end to a first door. The door opening assembly also includes a second arm member having a first end and a second end hingedly coupled at the first end to a second door. An actuator is coupled to the second end of the first arm member and the second end of the second arm member to cause the first arm member to displace the first door and the second arm member to hold the second door from being displaced. A further feature includes a door closing system involve a guide member and a guide receptacle for moving a latch gate to close the door. |
| US08689676B2 |
Piston-chamber combination
A piston-combination comprising an elongate chamber bounded by an inner chamber wall, and comprising a piston sealingly movable in the chamber relative to the chamber wall at least between a first and a second longitudinal position of the chamber, said chamber having cross-sections of different cross-sectional areas at the first and second longitudinal positions, and at least substantially continuously differing cross-sectional areas at intermediate longitudinal positions between the first and second longitudinal positions, the cross-sectional area at said second longitudinal position being smaller than the cross-sectional area at the first longitudinal position, said piston changing dimensions and having different cross-sectional areas thereby adapting to different cross-sectional areas of the chamber during the relative movements of the piston between the first and second longitudinal positions through said intermediate longitudinal positions of the chamber, said combination engaging a rigid surface and being movable relative to said surface. |
| US08689674B2 |
Axial piston machine with rotation restraint mechanism
A reciprocator restraint assembly for a Z-crank axial piston machine is described. The assembly includes two gimbal arms each linked together at gimbal link joint that intersect at a point T. Point T lying in a medial plane M being defined as the plane passing through the point of coincidence of the crank and crankshaft axes to which the line that bisects the crank angle is normal. Each of the gimbal arms is pivotally mounted at an identical distance L from point T. A cylinder gimbal is pivotally mounted from the cylinder cluster and a reciprocator gimbal is pivotally mounted from the reciprocator. The reciprocator gimbal pivot axis is equidistant from point X and T as is the cylinder gimbal pivot axis. The orientations of the pivot axes of the two gimbal arms being mutual reflections in the medial plane M resulting in the point T lying on the medial plane M as the crankshaft rotates with respect to the cylinder cluster, and thus ensuring homo-kinetic rotational restraint between the reciprocator and the cylinder cluster. |
| US08689671B2 |
Lightweight armor and methods of making
An article of armor includes a friction material operative to prevent penetration of a ballistic projectile. The armor is also operative to prevent penetration of a plurality of ballistic projectiles at a single point of impact. The armor may include a backing, or a facing, or may comprise an intermediate layer between a backing and facing in any combination. The armor of the invention applied directly to or attached to an article to be armored so as to cover all or any portion of the article. The backing and facing may include a friction material or a non-friction material. The friction material is a composite of a resin binder agent, a fibrous support structure, a friction modifier system, and a wear system. |
| US08689668B1 |
Automatic crimping tool
An automatic crimping tool may be used to seat and crimp a projectile in a cartridge case. The tool may include a center sleeve having a blind bore at one end, an outer surface, a spring stop disposed on the outer surface, and at least one opening extending through a wall of the blind bore. The tool may include an outer sleeve having a through bore. The center sleeve may be reciprocably disposed in the through bore of the outer sleeve. The through bore may include a counter bore at one end and an enlarged portion located distal from the counter bore. A spring may be disposed between a flat portion of the counter bore and the spring stop. A retainer may bear against the spring stop to limit axial motion of the center sleeve. An inner sleeve may be disposed in the blind bore. The inner sleeve may be selectively translatable with the center sleeve. A second spring may be disposed between a closed end of the blind bore and the inner sleeve. |
| US08689664B2 |
Backhoe loader
A backhoe loader includes a multi-axis transmission that includes: an input shaft to which power is inputted; a front output shaft coupled to a front wheel; a rear output shaft disposed in a position higher than that of the front output shaft and coupled to a rear wheel; an intermediate shaft disposed between the input shaft and the front output shaft; a first power transmission mechanism configured to transmit power from the input shaft to the intermediate shaft; and a second power transmission mechanism configured to transmit power from the intermediate shaft to the front output shaft and to transmit power from the front output shaft to the rear output shaft. |
| US08689660B2 |
Steering device
A steering device provides a driver operation feeling that lets the driver definitely feel that a movable tilt lock gear and a fixed tilt lock gear are securely engaged. Gear noise in tilt adjustment when the movable tilt lock gear and the fixed tilt lock gear are engaged halfway is prevented. As the control force of an operating lever is rapidly decreased when a fitting protrusion is fitted to a stepped part, a click and click stop feeling occur and a definite operation feeling that the clamping is securely performed is acquired. As the fitting protrusion is integrated with the operating lever and a sliding surface configured by a groove, an inclined face and the stepped part are also formed as an outside face of the fixed tilt lock gear, the number of parts and man-hours for assembly can be reduced. |
| US08689659B2 |
Steering column for a motor vehicle
A steering column for a motor vehicle includes a first and a second part, which in the event of a vehicle crash can be displaced relative to each other in a displacement direction. At least one absorption element acts between the two parts for absorbing energy during the mutual displacement of the two parts, and at least one shift unit, which includes a shift component that can be shifted between a passive and an active shift position. The amount of the energy absorbed during the mutual displacement of the two parts differs in the passive and the active shift position of the shift component. During a displacement of the two parts in the event of a crash, a mutual energy-absorbing displacement takes place between the shift component being in the active shift position thereof and at least one section of the absorption element in an engagement region of the absorption element in which the shift element engages in the active shift position thereof, or between the shift component being in the active shift position thereof and one of the two parts that are mutually displaced in the event of a crash in an engagement region of said part in which the shift component engages in the active shift position thereof. |
| US08689654B2 |
Hydraulic pressure supply apparatus for transmission
In an hydraulic pressure supply apparatus for a transmission, it is configured to have a first hydraulic control valve supplying signal pressure to a pressure regulation port of a regulator valve that regulates discharged pressure discharged from a hydraulic pump to line pressure; a second hydraulic control valve regulating the line pressure and supply it to a lockup clutch; a connecting section connecting a hydraulic passage connecting the first hydraulic control valve and the pressure regulation port with a hydraulic passage connected to an output port of the second hydraulic control valve; and a selecting mechanism installed at the connecting section to select higher pressure between output pressures of the first and second hydraulic control valves such that the selected one acts on the pressure regulation port. |
| US08689652B2 |
Method for determining the surface radius and/or particle density of a powder
This invention relates to a method for determining the average surface radius ro and/or the density r of the particles of a nanopowder in a sample levitating in an electropositive plasma with a volume V formed between a first electrode powered by a radiofrequency voltage and a second electrode with a fixed voltage, in particular a ground one, characterized in that: V is the amplitude at the measuring time t of the radiofrequency voltage RF powering the first electrode when the powder is present in the plasma, V is the amplitude of said radiofrequency voltage powering the first electrode in the absence of powder in the plasma, V is the self-polarization voltage of the first electrode at the time t when the powder is present in the plasma, V is the self-polarization voltage of the first electrode in the absence of powder in the plasma, ΔAB is the surface variation of the second electrode in the presence of powder at the time t relative to a situation in which powder is absent, and the values of n and K are determined by means of calibrating by tracing a curve in which ro is a function of ΔAB and of VRF from experimental data obtained from powders having a known particle diameter by measuring VRF, VRF(O), VDC, and VDC(0) and by applying a regression to said curve. n D = 1 4 π K 2 V Δ A B × ( 1 V RF - 1 V RF ( 0 ) ) 2 n r D = K Δ A B ( 1 V RF - 1 V RF ( 0 ) ) n Avec AA : K = ɛ 0 C q V D n , Δ A B = δ ( t ) δ ( 0 ) - 1 1 A M 0 + 1 A B 0 , δ ( t ) = π arccos ( V DC V RF ) - 1 et BB δ ( 0 ) = π arccos ( V DC ( 0 ) V RF ( 0 ) ) - 1 AA with BB and |
| US08689646B2 |
Sealed, slim-line constant force, generation unit
The present disclosure relates to a sealed constant force generation system utilizing a spring system comprising a spring system housing unit, spacers, interchangeable spring load rod and conical spring washers, a puller assembly comprising a puller, pivot assembly, seal system and o-ring, a lever arm system, an adjustment system, a load stopper and fulcrum housing unit. A method for applying the sealed constant force generation system on objects or loads experiencing a specific displacement is also disclosed. |
| US08689645B2 |
Bicycle crank arm
A bicycle crank arm is provided with a crank body, a reference member and a sensor. The crank body has a crank axle mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion. The reference member is attached to the crank body. The sensor is attached to at least one of the crank body and the reference member. The sensor is arranged to output a signal based on a distance between the crank body and the reference member. |
| US08689643B2 |
Shaft arrangement having a rolling bearing
A shaft arrangement, with a rotatable shaft supported in a rolling bearing, which has rolling elements and an outer race, a torsion sensor having a permanently magnetic ring and at least one magnetic field sensor fastened to a fixed sensor bracket attached to the outer race being provided. A torsion sensor can hereby be integrated in a rotating bearing in a simple design. |
| US08689642B2 |
Torque sensor
A torque sensor has an envelope tube, a middle cylinder mounted in the envelope tube, a inner cylinder mounted through the middle cylinder, a resilient element connected to the middle cylinder and the inner cylinder, a first disc and a second disc respectively attached to the inner cylinder and the middle cylinder, and a detection unit detecting a displacement angle of the second disc and the first disc to calculate a torque applied to the inner cylinder. The torque sensor has a simple structure, fast, sensitive and accurate torque sensing ability, and can be used on all kinds of mechanisms that rotate when a force is applied thereon to calculate and quantify amounts of energy and work of the exerciser according to the torque. |
| US08689637B2 |
Fracture analysis method, device, and program for spot welded portion, and computer-readable recording medium
Maximum allowable load values of a welded portion in respective fracture modes of a load fracture, a moment fracture, and a nugget interior fracture are found based on at least one of a sheet thickness t, a tensile strength TS, an elongation El, and a chemical composition of a nugget portion in each of spot-welded steel sheets, a nugget diameter d of a welded portion, an effective width B of the welded portion determined by a distance between adjacent welded portions, edges or ridge lines, and a sectional height H. Then, according to these fracture modes, an allowable load value at every moment after the maximum allowable load value of the welded portion is reached is found, and a displacement or a time at which the allowable load value becomes 0, that is, at which a complete fracture occurs is found, thereby finding a fracture limit. |
| US08689634B2 |
Systems and methods for mode shape identification
Embodiments of the present application can provide systems and methods for mode shape identification of turbine buckets. According to one embodiment, a system can be provided. The system can include a turbine bucket having numerous trigger patterns disposed at a distal end of the turbine bucket. A sensor is disposed adjacent to the distal end of the turbine bucket for detecting the trigger patterns. The trigger patterns are patterned to identify at least one mode shape of the turbine bucket. |
| US08689631B1 |
High sensitivity mechanical gyro with reduced quadrature error
A gyroscope comprising: a multi-layer substrate, comprising drive spring and sense spring layers; a rigid support structure formed from the substrate; a plurality of drive springs formed in each drive spring layer wherein each drive spring is operatively coupled to the support structure; a drive mass formed from at least one layer of the substrate, wherein the drive mass is coupled to the support structure via the drive springs; a drive mass driver operatively coupled to the drive mass and configured to cause movement of the drive mass with respect to the support structure; a plurality of sense springs formed in each sense spring layer, wherein each sense spring is operatively coupled to the drive mass; and a sense mass formed from at least one layer, wherein the sense mass is coupled to the drive mass via the sense springs. |
| US08689629B2 |
Sensing unit for bicycle speedometer
A sensing unit for a bicycle speedometer is disclosed. The bicycle speedometer has a meter body and the sensing unit for detecting pedaling and generating a signal related to bicycle pedaling. The sensing unit includes a sensor mounted on a bicycle frame and a fixture for carrying a sensed member. The fixture has a fixing end coupled with a bicycle crank and a coupling arm for carrying the sensed member. The fixture allows positional adjustment of the sensed member with respect to the bicycle crank, thereby facilitating aligning the sensed member with the sensor, so as to ensure proper sensing of the sensor to the sensed member. |
| US08689615B2 |
Bubble presence/absence determining method and dispensing apparatus
The present invention relates to a method for determining the presence or absence of bubbles inside pipes in a dispensing apparatus and a dispensing apparatus. |
| US08689614B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining the results of assays
The present invention provides a method for the real-time continuous monitoring of a change or density and/or viscosity within a test sample. Such methods can be used to determine the occurrence of a chemical reaction within a test sample where the same causes and increase or decrease in the density and/or viscosity of the sample due to, for example, a gelation, precipitation or coagulation occurring within the test sample. There is further provided a multi-resonator apparatus for use in measuring the density and/or viscosity of a test sample in which the multi-beam resonator is immersed. |
| US08689611B2 |
Leak detection system comprising a tracer gas mediating unit
A system for detection of a leak at a leakage testing point of a test object by a tracer gas. A positionable tracer gas mediating unit has a tip. A marker is attachable at the leakage testing point. A marker detector is associated with the positionable tracer gas mediating unit. The tip of the tracer gas mediating unit is arranged to be positioned within a predetermined distance interval from the marker during a leak detection test. The marker detector is arranged to detect the marker when the tip is positioned within the predetermined distance interval so as to certify a correct positioning of the tip. |
| US08689604B2 |
Offset error automatic calibration integrated circuit
An integrated circuit includes a transducer and transducer circuitry and additional elements useful in testing the transducer and transducer circuitry. A first power supply terminal and a second power supply terminal are for being directly connected to an external power supply terminal. A power bus is connected to the first power supply terminal. A logic function is for determining if the second power supply terminal is receiving power and if an automatic calibration test of the transducer and transducer circuitry has been run. An automatic calibration is for running an automatic calibration test on the transducer and transducer circuitry if the logic means determines that the second power supply terminal is receiving power and the automatic calibration test of the transducer and transducer circuitry has not been run. |
| US08689603B2 |
Control methods for setting a reference voltage in an air treatment system
A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment. |
| US08689602B2 |
Testing detectors
A hazard detector assembly for attachment to a surface within a protected zone comprises a detector unit and a test stimulus generator unit. |
| US08689601B2 |
Oil debris monitor verification dry rig
An assembly includes a debris monitor mount, a motor, and a particle belt. The particle belt carries one or more metallic particles. The particle belt is driven by the motor. The particle belt extends proximate the debris monitor mount when driven by the motor. |
| US08689600B2 |
Wedge drive with a force returning device
In a wedge drive (1) with a first part (20) which can be provided with a machining tool and a second part (30), wherein the two parts (20, 30) are arranged movably relative to each other, and there is provided at least one positive-action return device which engages or can engage both parts (20, 30), and a third part (10) which is connected to the first part (20), the at least one positive-action return device is return spring-free and has at least one device for causing and/or supporting the return of the one part (20) and/or for increasing the retraction force which can be applied in the return of the one part (20) in the upward stroke movement of the third part (10). |
| US08689598B2 |
Method of forming a tenon on one side of a metal plate member
A method of forming a tenon on one side of a metal plate member by means of punching the wall of one side of the metal plate member with a punch or punches to form a protrusion and then punching the protrusion with a punch rod to extend the height of the protrusion and to deform the protrusion into a tubular configuration. |
| US08689597B2 |
Ring rolling mill and ring rolling method
This ring rolling mill includes a main roll and a mandrel that are brought close to or separated from each other, and roll a peripheral portion of a ring-shaped body in a radial direction of the ring-shaped body while the ring-shaped body is rotated along its peripheral direction in a state where the peripheral portion of the ring-shaped body is pinched in the radial direction between an outer peripheral surface of the main roll, and an outer peripheral surface of the mandrel. This ring rolling mill further includes a mechanism which inclines and supports the mandrel with respect to the rotation axis of the main roll such that the gap between the outer peripheral surface of the mandrel and the outer peripheral surface of the main roll differs on one side and on the other side as seen in a direction along the rotation axis of the main roll. |
| US08689596B2 |
Key and lock
A thin key that is thin but includes serrations on each of two opposite sides of a blade (42, 72). The key is associated with a cylinder lock including a rotor (13) with tumblers (21-28) retained in the rotor. The blade, which is for insertion into the rotor of the cylinder lock, includes opposite first and second wide sides (F1, F3; F2, F4) and opposite first and second narrow sides (51, 74; 52, 75). A first notch (54, 76) is formed in the first wide side and a second notch (64, 86) is formed in the second wide side. The first and second notches each have a serrated wall (54a, 76a; 64a, 86a) engageable with the tumblers. The first notch and the second notch are spaced apart so that they do not overlap each other. The sum of the depths of the first and second notches (L1, D1; L2, D2) is greater than or equal to the thickness of the blade (L3, D3). |
| US08689595B2 |
Key and disc tumbler cylinder lock
The invention relates to a disc tumbler cylinder lock and a key for it. The key according to the invention comprises a groove that is transverse to the key shank. The groove comprises a bottom section and side sections that are transverse to the bottom section between the bottom section and the outer surface of the key shank. The bottom section of the groove is the key's main driving surface used to transfer turning force to the disc tumbler cylinder lock. This reduces wear on the O-surfaces of the key because the O-surfaces do not transfer the majority or any of the key turning force to the disc tumbler cylinder lock. |
| US08689592B2 |
Introducer device with locking adaptor
Introducer Device comprises (a) Housing including (1) Housing Lumen sized and shaped to slidably receive a visualization device therein and (2) Slot sized to receive therein a projection extending from visualization device received in Lumen radially away from Lumen; (b) Sheath extending distally from handle and being sized and shaped for insertion through a natural body opening into a hollow body organ, Sheath including a fluid delivery lumen delivering heated fluid to the organ and a fluid return lumen withdrawing the fluid after it has been circulated through the organ; (c) Connector including Connector Lumen aligned with Lumen and sized and shaped to slidably receive therein visualization device; (d) Locking arrangement movably coupled to Housing, movement relative to the housing opening and closing Slot; and (e) Adjustment mechanism moving Connector relative to Housing to adjust distance between a proximal end of Connector Lumen and a distal end of Sheath. |
| US08689591B2 |
Personal property safe
A safe is provided for securely storing property that may be accessed quickly. A biometric scanner is coupled to a latching mechanism which may be actuated upon input of a recognized pattern, such as a fingerprint. The safe door may be spring actuated to automatically open upon release of the locking mechanism. The latch positively locks the door so that it resists opening from sharp blows to the safe. |
| US08689586B2 |
Glass-melting device for producing glass fiber and method for producing glass fiber
A glass-melting device for producing glass fibers capable effectively reducing inclusion of bubbles into glass fibers to be spun, and a method for producing glass fibers using the same are provided.A glass-melting device 100 for producing glass fibers comprises: a first glass-melting tank 12; a conduit 14 extending downward from the first glass-melting tank 12; a sucking device 18 for exposing the first glass-melting tank 12 to a reduced-pressure atmosphere; a second glass-melting tank 20 provided on a lower portion of the conduit 14 and exposed to an atmospheric-pressure atmosphere; and a bushing 22 provided at a bottom portion of the second glass-melting tank 20 and equipped with a number of nozzles 22a. |
| US08689582B2 |
Refrigeration system
A refrigeration system includes a refrigerant circuit with a plurality of evaporator paths and a distributor for distributing refrigerant. The distributor includes a housing and a controllable valve for each evaporator path. The refrigeration system is operated by using a distributor including a magnet arrangement for controlling the valves. |
| US08689579B2 |
Indoor unit of air conditioner
An indoor unit of an air conditioner includes a heat exchanger accommodated inside a indoor unit body which is a housing whose lower face is opened, a drain pan which is disposed below the heat exchanger and receives drain water generated at the heat exchanger, a drain pump which is detachably disposed within the indoor unit body, sucks drain water accumulated in the drain pan and discharges the drain water to the outside, a drain port which is disposed at a bottom face wall section of the drain pan, the port being an opening portion through which the drain pump is insertable, and a drain cap which openably closes the drain pump insertion port. |
| US08689573B2 |
Refrigerated merchandiser
A refrigerated merchandiser including a case, a refrigeration system, a sensor, and a controller. The refrigeration system is operable in a defrost mode defrosting the evaporator, and a refrigeration mode discharging a refrigerated airflow into the product storage area to refrigerate the product and to maintain the product within a predetermined temperature range without freezing the product, and to receive the refrigerated airflow along a return passageway. The sensor senses one or more defrost conditions of the case. The controller controls the refrigeration system in the refrigeration mode and in the defrost mode, and includes an algorithm for calculating when to initiate the defrost mode and for calculating a duration of the defrost mode. The controller is programmed to vary the refrigeration system between the refrigeration mode and the defrost mode based on the signals indicative of the defrost conditions and the calculations by the algorithm. |
| US08689572B2 |
Climate control system including responsive controllers
A thermostat is provided that receives one or more inputs from at least one heating system of a climate control system, and initiates an appropriate action in response to the input. The thermostat can turn off a heat pump providing substandard heat and responsively turn on a fuel-fired auxiliary furnace. The thermostat may discontinue further operation of the auxiliary furnace upon receiving an operating error signal associated with the auxiliary furnace, and responsively turn on the heat pump to provide for continued heating. The thermostat may also discontinue operation of the fuel-fired furnace and turn on a circulating fan in response to an input signal indicating a furnace high-temperature or a carbon monoxide presence. |
| US08689570B2 |
Air conditioning apparatus and control method thereof
An air conditioning apparatus is provided that includes an indoor device including a heat exchanger, and a remote controller to input an operation condition of the indoor device. The remote controller includes a sensor that senses a moving state of the remote controller, a controller that determines the operation condition of the indoor device based on a result sensed by the sensor, and a signal transmitting and receiving device that transmits and receives a signal to and from the indoor device. The indoor device includes a blower, a wind direction controller that controls a discharge direction of air discharged from the blower, a signal transmitting and receiving device that transmits and receives a signal to and from the remote controller, and a controller that controls the driving of the blower and the wind direction controller in accordance with the operation condition received from the remote controller. |
| US08689568B2 |
Cooling hole with thermo-mechanical fatigue resistance
A gas turbine engine includes a wall having first and second wall surfaces and a cooling hole extending through the wall. The cooling hole includes an inlet located at the first wall surface, an outlet located at the second wall surface, a metering section extending downstream from the inlet and a diffusing section extending from the metering section to the outlet. The diffusing section includes a first lobe diverging longitudinally and laterally from the metering section, a second lobe diverging longitudinally and laterally from the metering section, an upstream end located at the outlet, a trailing edge located at the outlet opposite the upstream end and generally opposite first and second sidewalls. Each sidewall has an edge extending along the outlet between the upstream end and the trailing edge. Each edge diverges laterally from the upstream end and converges laterally before reaching the trailing edge. |
| US08689564B2 |
Fossil-fueled power station comprising a carbon dioxide separation device and method for operating a fossil-fueled power station
A fossil-fueled power station including a steam turbine is provided. A steam generator is mounted downstream of the steam turbine via a steam return line and a carbon dioxide separation device. The carbon dioxide separation device is connected to the steam return line via a process steam line and a backpressure steam turbine is mounted into the process steam line. |
| US08689558B2 |
Propfan engine
A propfan engine has a power-producing core, a plurality of nozzles for exhausting exhaust gas from the core, and a row of propeller blades rotatable about an axis. The blades are positioned downstream of the exhaust nozzles. The exhaust nozzles are rotatable about said axis. The nozzles can be aligned with the gaps between successive propeller blades in order to reduce noise during operation of the engine. |
| US08689557B2 |
Steam seal dump re-entry system
A steam seal dump re-entry system delivers steam dump flow to an LP steam turbine. The system includes a steam seal header receiving steam leaking from turbine end seal packings, and a desuperheater receiving and cooling the steam from the steam seal header. The desuperheater outputs cooled steam. A temperature sensor is disposed downstream of the desuperheater and detects a temperature of the cooled steam. A flow control circuit communicating with the temperature sensor selectively delivers the cooled steam to at least one of the condenser and to the LP steam turbine depending on the temperature of the cooled steam. |
| US08689552B2 |
Centrifugal compressor and turbocharger
A centrifugal compressor is provided with: a housing which houses a compressor wheel therein; a spiral scroll arranged in an outer periphery of the compressor wheel; and a diffuser portion provided as a path space communicating with the scroll from an outlet side of the compressor wheel and formed by a compressor housing and a center housing. The centrifugal compressor is also provided with a movable vane which is movable between a projecting position where the movable vane projects from the compressor housing and a housing position where the movable vane houses in a housing portion provided in compressor housing, and an actuator which drives the movable vane between the projecting position and the housing position. The actuator is provided in the center housing. |
| US08689551B1 |
Hydrostatic transaxle
A hydraulic drive unit having a center section for a hydraulic pump and hydraulic motor mounted in a casing. The center section includes a cylindrical protuberance for locating the center section in the casing, and at least one fastener opening formed in the center section for receiving a fastener engaged to the casing. The drive unit may also include a pair of flat surfaces formed on the center section and adapted to mount with features in the casing, and a bypass shaft extending into the casing and at least partially disposed in the center section. |
| US08689546B2 |
Exhaust purification system of internal combustion engine
An exhaust purification system of an internal combustion engine is provided with an exhaust purification catalyst which removes NOx and a post treatment device. The exhaust purification catalyst has the property of reducing NOx if making the concentration of hydrocarbons vibrate by within a predetermined range of amplitude and within a predetermined range of period and furthermore has the function of oxidizing hydrocarbons. The exhaust purification system feeds hydrocarbons to the exhaust purification catalyst and raises the temperature of the post treatment device as temperature elevation control. The exhaust purification catalyst has a high purification rate range where the NOx purification rate becomes higher than a predetermined rate. In the temperature elevation control, the total feed amount of hydrocarbons is set and the feed period of hydrocarbons is set in the high purification rate range in a region at the end at the short side of feed period of hydrocarbons. |
| US08689542B2 |
Emissions reductions through reagent release control
One embodiment is a method including determining whether an ammonia storage device has a stored quantity of ammonia, predicting an impending ammonia release from the ammonia storage device, determining a NOx increase amount in response to the impending ammonia release, and increasing an amount of NOx provided by an engine based on the NOx increase amount. In certain embodiments, determining the NOx increase amount in response to the impending ammonia release comprises determining a NOx increase schedule based on the stored quantity of ammonia. In certain embodiments, the NOx increase schedule comprises a specified NOx increase time period, and in certain further embodiments, the method further includes decrementing the specified NOx increase time period based on an estimated catalyst degradation value. |
| US08689541B2 |
Valvetrain control method and apparatus for conserving combustion heat
An engine control system includes a catalyst module and a cylinder module. The catalyst module determines a catalyst temperature. The cylinder module selectively switches operation of a first cylinder from a first engine cycle having four strokes to a second engine cycle having N times four strokes, based on the catalyst temperature, wherein N is an integer greater than one. A related method is also provided. |
| US08689539B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for model based control for counter-rotating open-rotor gas turbine engine
Simple, robust and systematic solutions are provided for controlling counter-rotating open-rotor (CROR) gas turbine engines. The solutions mathematically decouple the two counter rotating rotors of a CROR engine by model-based dynamic inversion, which allows application of single-input-single-output (SISO) control concepts. The current solutions allow fuel flow to be treated as a known disturbance and rejected from the rotor speeds control. Furthermore, the current control solutions allow a simple and well-coordinated speed phase synchronizing among the four rotors on a two-engine vehicle. |
| US08689536B2 |
Advanced laser ignition systems for gas turbines including aircraft engines
A laser ignition system for an internal combustion engine, and more specifically a gas turbine engine, is provided. The system comprises at least one laser light source configured to generate a laser beam and an optical beam guidance component. The optical beam guidance component is configured to transmit the laser beam to irradiate on an oxygenated fuel mixture supplied into the combustion chamber at a region of highest ignitability to generate a combustor flame in a flame region. The system further includes an integrated control diagnostic component configured to detect at least a portion of a light emission and operable to control one or more combustion parameters based in part on the detected light emission. The system further includes additional enhanced ignition control configurations. A method for igniting a fuel mixture in an internal combustion engine is also presented. |
| US08689531B2 |
Bag making and packaging machine
A bag making and packaging machine includes a conveying unit, a transverse sealing mechanism, and a gusset forming mechanism. The conveying unit is configured and arranged to continuously convey a tubular packaging material. The transverse sealing mechanism has a pair of sealing jaws configured and arranged to revolvingly move while following annular loci to seal the tubular packaging material in a transverse direction with respect to a conveyance direction of the tubular packaging material. The gusset forming mechanism has a pair of folding members configured and arranged to be pressed against side portions of the tubular packaging material to form gussets in the side portions of the tubular packaging material while the folding members move along the conveyance direction of the tubular packaging material before the transverse sealing mechanism seals the tubular packaging material. |
| US08689530B2 |
Method and device for inserting (tube) bags into cartons
In order to insert packages, particularly bags (10) having fragile packaging goods into containers or cartons (14), the carton (14) is held ready in a packing station (16) such that the bags (10) can be inserted into the carton (14) by means of a delivery device, particularly a pusher (56). In order to create different, ordered formations of the bags (10) within the carton (14), said carton can be moved during the filling or packing process such that the packing formation is created due to a corresponding relative positioning of the carton (14) at a predetermined feed plane. |
| US08689526B2 |
System and method for facilitating opening of plastic bags
A plastic bag for retaining a food product is formed of first and second plastic sheets sealed along the bottom and sides. The bag has an exterior increased friction surface section proximate the mouth. The bag is used in combination with a glove having an exterior increased friction surface portion. The exterior increased friction portion of the glove engages the increased friction section of the bag to facilitate opening of the mouth of the bag. Preferably, aligned increased friction sections are formed on the exterior surface of opposite sides of the bag and the glove has exterior increased friction portions on the tips of the finger stalls. When the bag is held between the thumb and index finger of the glove user, movement of the thumb and index finger of the glove in opposite directions facilitates opening of the bag. |
| US08689525B2 |
Machine for filling and capping vials
A machine (M) for filling and capping vials (F), comprising, arranged in a cascade fashion: a supply station (1) of empty vials (F); an Archimedes screw (2) having a rotation axis parallel to a longitudinal development of the machine (M), supplied with the vials (F) in arrival from the supply station (1); a device (D) for disengaging a predetermined number of vials (F) from the screw (2), activated in phase relation with the screw (2), and for transferring the vials (F) transversally; a comb conveyor (3), step-moved and designed to receive the predetermined number of vials (F) from the device (D); a filling station (6, 7), designed for introduction of a liquid solution contemporaneously into a plurality of vials (F); a capping station (10, 11) for contemporaneously sealing a plurality of vials (F); an outlet zone (U) for conveying the vials (F) out of the operating line of the machine. |
| US08689524B2 |
Medicine feeding device
There is provided a medicine feeding device which can apply uniform tension to wrapping paper wound in a roll state to wrap a medicine. The medicine feeding device comprises a tablet case which stores a medicine, and the wrapping paper wound in the roll state, wraps a medicine discharged from the tablet case in wrapping paper 72, and comprises a tension application mechanism 113 which applies predetermined tension to the continuously pulled-out wrapping paper. This tension application mechanism is constituted to freely move up-and-down, and to apply tension to the pulled-out wrapping paper by its own weight. |
| US08689523B1 |
Ice bagging assembly with accessible hopper
An ice bagging assembly and related method with a horizontal ice bag cassette, a pair of opposing ice bag ply graspers configured to move an empty ice bag from the horizontal ice bag cassette to a vertical position to receive cubed ice before it is sealed shut and dropped to an ice bag merchandiser. The opposing graspers may be configured as rotating wheels and may have a grasping sensor. The ice bag cassette may be slidably and tiltably supported for easy replacement of horizontal bags. A load sensor, optical or mechanical, may be associated with the ice hopper to sense how much ice has been put in each bag. A pair of angled guides may guide a hopper into a support frame for the system. |
| US08689515B2 |
Hinge assembly for a frame structure
A hinge assembly is provided for a frame structure. The hinge assembly includes a first generally flat plate having an inner face, an outer face and a bolt-receiving bore therethrough. The bolt-receiving bore extending between the inner face and the outer face along a bore axis at an acute angle to the outer face. A second generally flat plate has an inner face, an outer face and a bolt-receiving bore therethrough. The bolt-receiving bore in the second plate extending between the inner face and the outer face thereof along a bore axis at an acute angle to the outer face. A pin pivotably connects the first plate to the second plate. A first lip extends from the inner face of the first plate and a second lip extends from the inner face of the second plate. |
| US08689512B2 |
Mechanical locking of floor panels with vertical folding
Floor panels (1, 1′, 1″) are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system on long and short edges (5a, 5b, 4a, 4b) allowing installation with vertical folding and where the long edge (5a, 5b) locking system prevents separation of the short edges (4a, 4b) during the folding action. |
| US08689510B1 |
Roofing system and method
A roofing system and kit including a texture layer for application to an upper surface of the deck of the roof with an upper face of the texture layer being contoured to resemble a different roofing material, a transition texture strip for positioning across gaps between texture layer occurring at transitions in the upper surface of the roof deck and having a contoured upper surface, and an edge strip for application along the perimeter edges of the roof to create an outer perimeter for the roofing system. A finish layer is applied to the texture layer, transition texture strip and edge strip positioned on the roof deck in a liquid sprayable form as a coating onto the texture layer, transition texture strip and edge strip to solidify into a solid layer such that the finish layer forms a continuous membrane over the texture layer, transition texture strip and edge strip. |
| US08689504B2 |
Fire protection module
A fire protection module is provided for wall and ceiling openings. The fire protection module includes a sheath for insertion into the wall or ceiling opening and a flange to be placed at the wall or ceiling. The assembly of the fire protection module may be performed with few steps. For example, the sheath and the flange are embodied in one piece. |
| US08689500B2 |
Snow removal method and system for a metal roof
A method of removing accumulated frozen rain/ice/snow from a metal roof. The method comprising the steps of inducing vibration into the metal roof, via at least one vibration imparting member attached to the metal roof, to break up the frozen rain/ice/snow accumulated on the metal roof and separate the frozen rain/ice/snow from the metal roof; and allowing the frozen rain/ice/snow to slide off the metal roof under an effect of gravity. |
| US08689498B2 |
Bird spike with plastic base having upper and lower recesses
A deterrent device can include an elongated base having a plurality of spikes coupled to the base that are configured to extend from the base such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base. |
| US08689495B2 |
Protective shelter
Protective shelters for enclosing one or more persons and/or animals are described. A capsule can be a spherical or substantially spherical, water-tight shell surrounding a frame and forming an interior portion which accommodates the one or more persons and/or animal; and at least one sealable entry door configured to seal at least one opening formed in the shell. |
| US08689493B2 |
Truss based display system
A display unit comprising a plurality of vertical truss members anchored to a floor surface; a plurality of horizontal rails attached to the vertical truss members thereby forming a frame; a horizontal track anchored to a floor surface in front of the vertical truss members; a plurality of cantilever supports attached across the top of the frame, the cantilever supports each having a front portion providing an upper frame and lower frame; a plurality of upper rectangular panels mounted in a first row adjacent one another in the upper frames; a plurality of lower rectangular panels mounted in the lower frames adjacent one another a second row below the first row; first and second side panels anchored to the floor track and to a plurality of the horizontal rails; a plurality of cabinets located adjacent one another between the first and second side panels and anchored to the floor track and at least one of said horizontal rails; and a plurality of display panels disposed between the top surfaces of the cabinets and the lower edges of the lower rectangular panels. |
| US08689492B2 |
Motorized rotating gutter
A roof-mounted actuator of a gutter dumping assembly is actuatable to rotate a gutter from an initial, upright position to a downwardly-facing dumped position in order to dump debris from the gutter. The actuator is coupled to the gutter support by a flexible structure so that, after the actuator positively engages a support for the gutter and forces it to an over-center position, the gutter falls to a dumped position under only the force of gravity. |
| US08689491B2 |
Device with inflatable membrane for raising flat roof low areas
A low cost method and device for diverting water away from a flat roof's low spots, thus preventing it from puddling there during a rainstorm. Such puddles, if allowed to stand, can damage a roof deck structurally. The device includes a flexible membrane, an air valve mounted thereon, and mechanical fasteners for attaching the membrane along its periphery, to both the roof deck and its existing covering. Ideally, the membrane can be heat welded, taped or glued to the roof covering and joined thereto to form an airtight seal, thus simplifying construction of inflatable barriers for the roof's low spots. For each such barrier, a membrane, sized and shaped to cover at least one low spot, substantially overlaps the latter's edges and defines, in combination with the roof covering, an air pocket which, when inflated via the air valve, causes the membrane to protrude upwardly, effectively elevating the covered spot. |
| US08689487B2 |
Panel for a motor vehicle
A panel, preferably made of plastic, for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle comprises a U-shaped passage for the reception of a seal which has a first sealing lip which contacts a first limb of the U-shaped passage in an uninterrupted manner and comprises a second sealing lip which contacts the second limb of the U-shaped passage. To improve the sealing effect, the second sealing lip contacts the second limb of the U-shaped passage in an uninterrupted manner. |
| US08689485B2 |
Vertical planter and gardening wall
A vertical planter and gardening wall comprised of base planter blocks that are identical to each other and end blocks that are identical to each other. The blocks are stackable and interlock. The invention can be used by gardeners to cultivate and display their gardens indoors or outdoors in a restricted area. |
| US08689484B2 |
Weed control and root barrier
A polyolefin sheet material carries layered segments of a polymer which contains a herbicide such as a 2,6-dinitroaniline. The sheet material can be porous to permit free passage of water. It may be either a perforated sheet or a woven or non-woven material. A desired material is a non-woven fabric of non-biodegradable polyolefin material, such as a geotextile, for example. In order to obtain a root growth-repelling property, the herbicide is blended with a polymer which is attached or bonded to or embedded in the geotextile, or other polyolefin carrier sheet material, in the form of spaced apart layered segments. Diffusion of the herbicide directly into the soil is prevented by a barrier material positioned on, coated on, or otherwise bonded to the layered segments, to encompass surfaces of the segments which are otherwise exposed on the sheet material. Essentially all of the herbicide contained in the layered segments is directed into the soil virtually exclusively by means of its long term migration through the carrier sheet material. |
| US08689481B2 |
Integration of surface heating to an enclosure
Disclosed are designs and methods for integrating heating film onto surfaces and enclosures that are useful for preventing the infestation of pests. Specifically, designs to increase the effective heating area and location of said heating film within enclosures such as suitcases. Also, the use of heating films to create a thermal barrier to prevent pests from crawling across a surface. Heating films can be utilized that are inexpensive, low-profile, and lightweight. |
| US08689479B1 |
Method and apparatus for weedless fish lure
Method and apparatus for a hard body fishing lure having a cavity disposed therein which conceals a fish hook held internal the body by a magnet. An axle is provided near the front of the lure about which the hook rotates from the internal position to an external position when the lure is struck by a fish and back pressure is placed on the fishing line so that the hook is deployed from internal the body to external the body so as to hook a fish in the mouth. A tube for receiving the line is placed between two halves of the lure wherein weights are placed near the bottom edges of the halves in order to properly weight the lure body. An additional embodiment is shown wherein a bill or lip is placed on the front of the halves of the lure body in order to make the lure dive deeper into the water column. |
| US08689478B2 |
Quick take-down barrel system and method for modular rifle
In embodiments, a modular rifle includes a lower receiver assembly, an upper receiver assembly housing a barrel, and a coupling mechanism. Upper receiver assembly has two portions, an aft portion and fore portion, commonly comprising a hand guard. The barrel is releasably attached to the upper receiver first portion by a hand-tightenable barrel nut sleeve connector. Upper receiver second portion is both releasably attached to the barrel nut connector sleeve and to the upper receiver first portion to prevent the barrel nut connector sleeve from rotating during firing of the rifle and to keep the second portion from detaching during firing of the rifle. Attachment of upper receiver second portion to the barrel nut connector sleeve is accomplished by a removable take-down pin and common screw clamp, which secure the barrel nut connector sleeve. Upper receiver first and second portions are connected by an attachment tab and receptacle. |
| US08689474B2 |
Multi-part signage
A sign for displaying product information to a consumer. The sign includes first and second components for supporting primary and secondary product information. A first support member is provided for supporting the sign in an orientation to enable the product information to be visible to a consumer. A connecting interface is provided in the form of extenders emanating from the first and second components enabling the first and second components to releaseably attach to one another, the second component used for supporting supplemental product information in an orientation to enable supplemental product information to be made visible to a consumer. |
| US08689471B2 |
Method and system for controlling an excavator
A control for an excavator of the type having a plurality of hydraulic cylinders for moving excavator components such that digging is accomplished at a worksite with an excavator bucket or other excavator implement, includes a plurality of hydraulic control valves, each of which is associated with a respective one of the hydraulic cylinders for controlling the application of hydraulic fluid pressure to the respective one of the hydraulic cylinders, and a plurality of manually actuated joystick valves for supplying hydraulic fluid pressure to the respective hydraulic control valves to control the movement of the hydraulic cylinders. The control includes a sensor arrangement for sensing the position of one or more excavator components. |
| US08689470B2 |
Excavator
An excavator (1) includes an excavator main body (7), an apron (2) for the receipt of excavated material and a conveyor (3), the apron being located at or in proximity to the front of the main body, the conveyor extending from the apron to the rear of the main body. In use, the conveyor moves excavated material from the front to the rear of the main body, the excavator further includes an arm (11) having an attachment (5) for excavating material and moving the excavating material towards the apron (2). The excavator has a support associated with the front of the main body, the support being movable from a first position in which the support is in resilient contact with the ground to a second position in which there is substantially no contact between the support and the ground. The support includes one or both of the apron and conveyor. |
| US08689463B2 |
Clothes dryer apparatus with improved lint removal system
A method and apparatus for removing lint from air that is discharged from a clothes dryer uses a lint filtration housing mounted on the frame of the clothes dryer, the filtration housing having an interior that contains a filter for removing lint from the dryer exhaust air flow stream. The housing provides an influent fitting for transmitting heating exhaust air from the drying chamber to the housing interior. An ambient air supply enables ambient air to be added to the filtration housing interior. One or more vanes is provided that create an annular vortex within the filtration housing interior. The flow of the annular vortex within the filtration housing interior can be between about 500 and 3,000 cubic feet per second. A flow line transmits pre-heated air from the filtration housing interior to the dryer interior. |
| US08689462B2 |
Steam laundry dryer
The present invention relates to a steam laundry drier, and more specifically to a steam laundry dryer capable of removing or preventing crease or wrinkle occurring in cloth, etc. and capable of improving assembling efficiency by easily mounting a steam generator provided to remove the crease or the wrinkle and a water supply source supplying water to the steam generator in the inside of the steam laundry drier. |
| US08689457B2 |
Method and device for measuring the protrusion of bearing shells
The invention relates to a method for determining the protrusion of bearing shells, comprising the following steps: a) clamping a bearing shell at several bearing points; b) applying one or more test forces to at least one point of the bearing shell so that the bearing shell is elastically deformed; c) measuring the deformation of the bearing shell at one or more measuring points of the bearing shell; d) determining the protrusion from the measured deformation. The invention further relates to a device for determining the protrusion of bearing shells, comprising a clamping device, which is suitable for clamping a bearing shell at one or more bearing points, one or more deformation apparatuses, which are suitable for applying one or more test forces to at least one point of the bearing shell, one or more measuring devices, which can measure the deformation of the bearing shell at one or more points when one or more test forces are applied by the deformation apparatus to at least one point of the bearing shell in such a way that the bearing shell is elastically deformed, and an apparatus for determining the protrusion, which can determine the protrusion of the bearing shell from the measured deformation of the bearing shell. |
| US08689453B2 |
Cooking utensil
A cooking utensil 10 having a stem or handle 12 and a bowl or containment portion 13 which has a cavity 16 and protruding ridges which may be used to selectively engage, cut and grind an item such as food. |
| US08689447B2 |
Fire resistance for optically transparent thermoplastics
A fire retardant, transparent panel and method of making the panel, that is especially well suited for use on mobile platforms, and particularly on aircrafts. The panel is a composite of a transparent matrix and a plurality of fire-retardant nanoparticles. The nanoparticles have a diameter less than the visible spectrum of light, and in one form between about 0.1 nm to about 400 nm in diameter. The nanoparticles may be arranged randomly or in predetermined patterns within the matrix during manufacturing of the panel. The panel is lightweight, transparent and yet highly fire retardant. |
| US08689433B1 |
Automatic gravity vacuum screw feeding
An electric screwdriver is coupled to an automatic screw feeding adaptor defining a screw path having a proximal end, a middle region and a distal end. A first screw is received within the screw feeding adaptor and held at a driving position near the distal end of the screw path by applying a distal partial vacuum within the screw feeding adaptor. The first screw is driven, and a torque applied to the first screw is detected. The torque is compared to a minimum torque threshold, and a second screw is moved along the screw path based at least in part upon the comparison. |
| US08689429B2 |
Method of reworking head suspension
A method of reworking a head suspension removes a slider from the head suspension by pressing a blade from a first side toward a second side in a longitudinal direction of the slider to solder ball bonding, stopping the second side of the slider in the longitudinal direction with a holding mechanism, and forcing the blade to bite and cut the solder ball bonding to remove the slider from the flexure. The solder ball bonding is cut without applying extra force to components of the head suspension except the slider. The method improves product yield. |
| US08689426B2 |
Method of manufacturing a resonating structure
Aspects of the subject disclosure include, for example, obtaining a mechanical resonating structure comprising a compensating structure, where the compensating structure comprises one or more materials having an adaptive stiffness that reduces a variance in a resonating frequency of the mechanical resonating structure (f0), and adjusting at least one of a value of f0 of the obtained mechanical resonating structure or a value of a temperature for which temperature coefficient of frequency of the obtained mechanical resonating structure is approximately zero (T0) by altering a thickness of at least one targetable material of the mechanical resonating structure. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08689422B2 |
Securing plugs for attaching computer components
A keyboard assembly for a small form factor computer includes a number of keys and associated electrical contacts positioned between the top case portion of the computer and the feature plate. The attachment of the keyboard assembly during the manufacturing process can be accelerated by welding securing fasteners through small holes in the feature plate directly to the top case portion of the computer. |
| US08689421B2 |
Method of making disc brake pads
The subject invention provides a method of designing disc brake pads. The method includes the step of developing a finite element model of a precursor brake pad design using dimensional and material property information of its backing plate and friction pad to perform a normal mode analysis of the precursor brake pad design. The method proceeds with the step of performing the normal mode analysis using the finite element model to determine whether there is an area on the friction surface having an excitation amplitude that is greater than a threshold value of amplitude. If an area having an excitation amplitude greater than the threshold value is determined, the precursor brake pad design is modified to provide a brake pad design having a relieved portion in the area. |
| US08689417B2 |
Precision laser adjustable thin film capacitors
Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing a precision laser adjustable (e.g., trimmable) thin film capacitor array. A plurality of individual capacitors are formed on a common substrate and connected together in parallel by way of fusible links. The individual capacitors are provided as laddered capacitance value capacitors such that a plurality of lower valued capacitors corresponding to the lower steps of the ladder, and lesser numbers of capacitors, including a single capacitor, for successive steps of the ladder, are provided. Precision capacitance values can be achieved by either of fusing or ablating selected of the fusible links so as to remove the selected subcomponents from the parallel connection. In-situ live-trimming of selected fusible links may be performed after placement of the capacitor array on a hosting printed circuit board. |
| US08689416B2 |
Method for manufacturing surface acoustic wave element
A method for manufacturing a surface acoustic wave element that prevents curvature of a piezoelectric substrate when forming an electrode pattern includes a first step of bonding to a first principal surface of a piezoelectric substrate a support member having a linear expansion coefficient lower than a linear expansion coefficient of the piezoelectric substrate to form a composite substrate, a second step of forming a plurality of grooves in the support member of the composite substrate from a surface that is opposite to a bonding interface between the support member and the piezoelectric substrate, a third step of forming electrode patterns including at least one IDT electrode on a second principal surface of the piezoelectric substrate of the composite substrate, and a fourth step of dividing the composite substrate on which the electrode patterns are formed to form individual surface acoustic wave elements. |
| US08689414B1 |
Protective fabric with weave architecture
Crimp-imbalanced protective fabric is accomplished by varying the levels of yarn crimp within and across a layer or layers of a multi-layer fabric armor system. The method includes developing a crimp in the yarn (utilized for producing a fiber layer) by pulling the yarn through a solution that substantially coats the yarn. The removable coating has a thickness that ensures a proper amount of crimp in the yarn. The tension in the yarn is controlled; the yarn is weaved; and a crimp is applied in the yarn. Once the crimp is applied, families of the crimped yarn are utilized as a layer or layered to produce a soft armor form. |
| US08689412B2 |
Memorial carrier
An apparatus including a mounting platform, wherein the mounting platform includes a substantially planar mounting surface; a clamping mechanism on the mounting surface; a memorial item retained by the clamping mechanism; and an arrangement of handles on a side of the mounting platform, wherein the side is substantially normal to the plane of the mounting surface. |
| US08689411B2 |
Casket and display base
A combination casket and casket display comprises a reduced height casket shell adapted to receive the remains of a deceased and having a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls, and a bottom wall, the side walls and end walls having lower edges, the bottom wall extending below the lower edges of the side walls and end walls, a casket lid closable on the reduced height casket shell, and a casket display base having a pair of side walls and a pair of end walls, the side walls and end walls having upper edges. The reduced height casket shell is supported by the casket display base such that the lower edges of the side walls and end walls of the reduced height casket shell are at about the same height as the upper edges of the side walls and end walls of the casket display base, and the bottom wall of the reduced height casket shell extends below the upper edges of the side walls and end walls of the casket display base so as to nest within the casket display base. A combined height of the reduced height casket shell and display base is about equal to a height of a conventional height casket shell. |
| US08689410B2 |
Tongue
A tongue (200, 400) for an inflatable belt restraint system, the tongue comprising: a narrow cylindrical hollow tube (204a, 204b) comprising a first formed member and a second formed member joined together along respective mating edges of the first and second formed members and two mating portions (202a and 202b) forming the looped portion of the tongue. |
| US08689409B2 |
Panel mounting clip with adhesives
A fastener for mounting a panel to a supporting structure includes a fastener part having a base with an upper and lower side. A connector is adapted to engage with another fastener part projecting from the upper side of the base. The lower side of the base is adapted to be adhesively connected to a substrate and incorporating a surface configuration that promotes a mechanical connection with an adhesive. The lower side surface configuration includes a protrusion extending from the base to a crown. The protrusion includes an undercut portion configured to form a mechanical connection with the adhesive. In use adhesive fills between the protrusions and forms a mechanical connection with the undercut portions when hardened. |
| US08689408B2 |
Continuous-coil type waterproof slide fastener and the structure impervious to fluid thereof
A continuous-coil type waterproof slide fastener includes two support tapes each having opposing first face and second face, two rows of coupling elements respectively formed of a continuous length of monofilament and respectively secured to along the inner longitudinal edge of the second face of each of the two support tapes, a high polymer elastic member bonded to the vertical wall of the inner longitudinal edge of each support tape and transversely extending from the vertical wall of the inner longitudinal edge to a predetermined distance, each high polymer elastic member further having a covering portion on the inner longitudinal edge of the second face of the associating support tape and a filling portion penetrates into inner chinks in the associating row of coupling elements, and a fluid impervious film covered at least on the first face of each support tape and the associating high polymer elastic member. |
| US08689407B2 |
Hose clamp
A hose clamp includes: a clamp body having a plurality of screw holes passing therethrough; a coupling housing disposed at one side of the clamp body and into which an opposite side of the clamp body is inserted; and a coupling screw rotatably disposed in the coupling housing and engaged with the screw holes of the clamp body inserted within the coupling housing, wherein the clamp body includes a compensating means including at least one compensation bead formed at one side of the clamp body for resiliently fastening a hose by a degree by which a diameter of the hose is decreased so as to firmly tighten the hose. The hose clamp can prevent the compensation means from being deformed over the resilient area, so that the compensation means is not deformed over the resilient area. |
| US08689404B2 |
Rotary shaft structure
A rotary shaft structure is provided with rotational and locating functions based on a compact request condition. The rotary shaft structure includes a combination of a shaft body and a braking device, in which the braking device includes a first end provided with a limiting portion and a second end provided with an assembling portion, thereby preventing an axial displacement of a rotary shaft. The shaft body corresponding to the first end of the braking device and the limiting portion thereof includes a base portion and at least one braking portion formed on the base portion, in which a locating function is formed when an interference state of the limiting portion of the braking device and the braking portion of the shaft body is formed, thereby improving the conditions of assembly and fitting difficulties, complication and time-consuming process in conventional skills. |
| US08689403B2 |
Door hinge for motor vehicles
A motor vehicle door hinge, having a pillar fitting able to be mounted on a vehicle body, and a door fitting able to be mounted on a motor vehicle door, which are connected to each other in an articulated manner by a hinge pin connected to either the pillar fitting or the door fitting in a rotation-resistant manner and to the remaining one of the pillar fitting or the door fitting in an articulated manner, and an arresting unit having a detent body carrier connected to the hinge pin in a rotation-resistant manner and radially extending to the latter and having a detent body, and a detent element adjustable on the other one of the pillar fitting or the door fitting with respect to the detent body carrier, coaxially arranged with respect to the hinge pin axis and in engagement with the detent body and including at least one detent notch, and arranged within a housing surrounding the hinge pin and the detent body carrier. |
| US08689402B2 |
Furniture hinge
A furniture hinge includes at least one control cam and at least one spring. The control cam moves along on the spring in order to produce a closing force and/or opening force. A sliding element is attached to the spring and/or to the control cam. The control cam or the spring moves along on the sliding element. |
| US08689401B2 |
Vacuum cleaner dirt cup
A vacuum cleaner including a dirt cup assembly including a first stage cyclonic separator operable to at least partially separate debris from an airflow, a second stage cyclonic separator downstream from the first stage cyclonic separator and operable to at least partially separate the debris from the airflow, a container having a sidewall that at least partially defines the first stage cyclonic separator, and a shroud having a lower perforated portion located within the container, and an upper portion that surrounds and receives the second stage cyclonic separator. The upper portion is located outside of the first container such that the upper portion forms an outside wall of the dirt cup above the sidewall of the container. The shroud further includes an intermediate portion between the lower portion and the upper portion, and the intermediate portion is coupled to the sidewall of the first container. |
| US08689384B2 |
Pig receiver assembly
A pig receiver and method retrieve pigs in pipeline pigging operations. In one embodiment, a pig receiver includes a pig receiver unit. The pig receiver also includes a pig gate valve assembly disposed on the pig receiving unit. The pig gate valve assembly includes a gate valve. The pig gate valve assembly also includes a first actuator and a second actuator. The pig gate valve assembly further includes a cylinder guide. In addition, the pig gate valve assembly includes a tie bar. Actuation of the tie bar actuates the gate valve. An end of the tie bar is attached to the first actuator, and an opposing end of the tie bar is attached to the second actuator. |
| US08689382B2 |
Method of manufacturing an article of footwear including a composite upper
A method of manufacturing an upper made of a composite material for an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes associating a layer of carbon fiber material and a flexible substrate to form the composite material. A thin outer coating of TPU is applied to an outer surface of the carbon fiber material of the composite material. The method forms an article of footwear having an upper that is generally flexible and lightweight. |
| US08689380B2 |
Multi-stranded coil spring
A spring assembly including a helical coil formed from a multi-strand cord. |
| US08689378B2 |
Cushion structure and construction
A cushion assembly includes an aesthetic cover having a perimeter panel providing a perimeter height. Spaced apart cover panels extend between the perimeter panels. The perimeter and cover panels together provide a cushion cavity. A cushion includes randomly oriented fibers bonded to one another to provide a core of a batt that has opposing surfaces. The batt includes manufactured, tufted and desired design heights. A tuft extends through the cushion to the opposing surfaces to maintain the cushion in the tufted height, which is less than the manufactured height. The cushion is provided at the desired design height with the tufted cushion arranged within the cushion cavity. The tufted height is generally less than the desired design height. |
| US08689370B2 |
Nozzle with independent flow and pulse control
A jet for a spa or bathing system that has a water flow modifier, where the water flow modifier is controlled independently from the flow rate of water through the jet. |
| US08689364B2 |
Belt adjustment system
Disclosed are belt adjustment systems, particularly for wearing around a user's waist, that permit a continuum of belt loop sizes or a larger selection of belt loop sizes. The belt adjustment system includes an elongate belt member having a first end, a second end and a series of teeth positioned on an inner surface near the second end and a fixation member having first and second adjustment elements. |
| US08695111B2 |
Video rate-enabling probes for atomic force microscopy
Method for producing a probe for atomic force microscopy with a silicon nitride cantilever and an integrated single crystal silicon tetrahedral tip with high resonant frequencies and low spring constants intended for high speed AFM imaging. |
| US08695103B2 |
Apparatus for and a method of copy-protecting a content carrying recording medium
Recording data has content data and navigation control data to enable a legitimate player to navigate the content data. The recording data has a content data set and a spurious data set that is difficult to distinguish from the content data set but will ignored by a legitimate player. The content data is associated with the content data set and the spurious data set. The spurious data set may be associated with control data that inhibit playing or correct playing of the content data. A ghost structure such as a ghost video title set my be provided by causing information in at least one of the video title set information, video manager information and the volume information file structure to reference a non-existent video title set or not reference an existing video title set. The recording medium may be an optical disc such as a DVD or its precursors. |
| US08695101B2 |
Data privacy engine
A computer hardware-implemented method, system, and/or computer program product determines an applicability of a data privacy regulation when transmitting data used with an enterprise project. A data privacy regulation describes regulatory restrictions on data being transmitted from a first geopolitical entity to a second geopolitical entity. A set of categorized data is used by an enterprise project, and the data privacy regulation establishes limitations on a transmission of at least one category of data, from the set of categorized data, from the first geopolitical entity to the second geopolitical entity. A first set of binary data and a second set of binary data are processed to determine if transmission of said at least one category of data from the first geopolitical entity to the second geopolitical entity is regulated by the data privacy regulation. |
| US08695100B1 |
Systems and methods for electronic fraud prevention
In some embodiments, a phishing detection method includes computing a first phishing indicator of a target webpage; when the target webpage is considered suspicious of phishing according to the first phishing indicator, computing a second phishing indicator of the target webpage, and deciding whether the webpage is a phishing site according to the first and second phishing indicators. Computing the second phishing indicator comprises comparing a word content (semantic content) of the target webpage to a word content of each of a plurality of reference webpages. Comparing the word contents may include counting the number of visible words which are common to the target and reference webpages, and/or computing a ratio of a number of words which are common to the target and reference webpages to the total number of words in both the target and reference webpages. |
| US08695099B2 |
Login initiated scanning of computing devices
Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for login initiated remote scanning of computer devices. The present invention detects login to the network via access management systems. The login data provides information that identifies the device so that the device can be checked against a scan database to determine if and when a previous scan occurred. Based on the findings in the scan database determinations are made as to whether to perform a scan. Additionally, the level of scanning can be determined based on previous scan dates and previous scan results, which may dictate customized scanning. In addition, the priority of the impending scan may be dictated by previous scan dates and results. Further embodiments provide for assessing risk, such as risk scoring or the like, concurrently or in near-real-time with the completion of the scan so that alerts may be communicated. |
| US08695098B2 |
Detecting security vulnerabilities in web applications
Method to detect security vulnerabilities includes: interacting with a web application during its execution to identify a web page exposed by the web application; statically analyzing the web page to identify a parameter within the web page that is constrained by a client-side validation measure and that is to be sent to the web application; determining a server-side validation measure to be applied to the parameter in view of the constraint placed upon the parameter by the client-side validation measure; statically analyzing the web application to identify a location within the web application where the parameter is input into the web application; determining whether the parameter is constrained by the server-side validation measure prior to the parameter being used in a security-sensitive operation; and identifying the parameter as a security vulnerability. |
| US08695097B1 |
System and method for detection and prevention of computer fraud
In a networked computer system, a user accesses a webserver via a web interface presenting credentials comprising a user identification. The webserver is communicatively connected to an application server. If fraud with respect to the user identification is detected, the application server sends a notification or alert to add the user identification to a list of compromised user identifications. The system also comprises a database for storing the list of compromised user identifications on a computer. Another category of user identifications is created referred to as phish phood which is comprised of fabricated user identifications. |
| US08695093B2 |
External link processing
A system and method of external link processing is disclosed. The system includes an interface configured to receive a user request to access an encoded external link in networked content. The encoded external link comprises a domain name of an external link server and an encoded portion which is an encoded result of an original external link encoded with an encoding function, wherein the original external link is an address to an external destination. One or more processors determine a safety level of the encoded external link using a criterion. In the event that the determined safety level of the encoded external link is determined unsafe, a warning message is generated indicating that the original external link is unsafe and the user is prevented from directly navigating to the original external link. |
| US08695092B2 |
Host IP reputation
Various embodiments described above are directed to identifying abuse-hosting services at their source, rather than using such intermediaries as URLs and associated domains. In one or more embodiments, threats can be blocked by using the Internet protocol (IP) address of an identified attacker that is hosting content associated with abuse. |
| US08695088B2 |
Dynamically constructed capability for enforcing object access order
Proposed is a Capability Management System (CMS) in a distributed computing environment that controls access to multiple objects by multiple subjects based upon a specified access order. A capability is dynamically constructed when the capability is needed. After the capability is used to access an object, a new capability is generated. In the alternative, multiple capabilities for enforcing an access order are generated independently of each other. The new capability is then employed by the same or another subject to access the object according to a prescribed access sequence. In this manner, at any particular time there is one capability valid to access the object by the appropriate subject. In addition, the capability includes information for verifying the authenticity of the capability and for specifying an expiration time associated with the capability. The technology may also be enhanced by providing a linkage between capabilities intended for use in a sequence. |
| US08695083B2 |
Rule generalization for web application entry point modeling
A security gateway receives messages, such as URL requests, rejected by a message filter based on a set of rules. The security gateway maintains frequencies with which the messages were rejected by the rules. The security gateway finds rejected messages having a high frequency of occurrence. Since messages having a high frequency of occurrences are more likely to represent legitimate requests rather than malicious attacks, the security gateway generates exception rules, which would allow similar messages to pass through the gateway. |
| US08695080B2 |
Information terminal apparatus, information processing apparatus and information communication system
When transmitting position/time information calculated by means of a GPS function to a server apparatus, authentication is carried out with the server apparatus. The position/time information may be certified as legitimate measured by a portable apparatus with a GPS reception function employed by a user. When transmitting information related to the position and the time acquired from a portable phone terminal having the GPS function and a network function by means of the GPS function to the server apparatus, authentication is carried out between the portable phone terminal and the server apparatus. The position/time information is transmitted to the server apparatus, only if the server apparatus is authenticated as a legitimate counterpart for connection. |
| US08695079B1 |
Allocating shared resources
Disclosed are various embodiments for allocating shared resources. A request to allocate a shared isolating resource is received. The shared isolating resource operates to isolate a plurality of customer resources in a multi-tenant environment. In response to the request to allocate, a least recently deallocated shared isolating resource is removed from a pool of available shared isolating resources. The least recently deallocated shared isolating resource is provided to at least one device using the shared isolating resource. |
| US08695077B1 |
Establishing and controlling communication sessions between SIP devices and website application servers
Methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, are described for establishing and controlling communication sessions between SIP devices and website application servers. An access portal computing device is coupled between one or more SIP devices and one or more website application servers. The access portal is configured to authenticate SIP user credentials based upon receipt of a SIP message from a SIP device and determine website user credentials associated with a website application server based on the SIP user credentials. The access portal is configured to receive, from the website application server, a communication services application based upon transmission of the website credentials to the website application server, translate SIP requests received from the SIP device into web-based commands for transmission to the website application server, and translate web-based commands received from the website application server into SIP requests for transmission to the SIP device. |
| US08695074B2 |
Pre-authenticated calling for voice applications
Architecture for providing pre-authenticated information from an endpoint for subsequently authenticating a device and/or user associated with the previously-authenticated information. A pre-authentication module of the architecture can be a trust component as part of an application that facilitates the utilization of user information and/or endpoint information in a media session protocol message to replace information that would otherwise be gathered via a dialog. In the context of IP-based voice communications, a call can be made from a client that is pre-authenticable, and no longer requires that an IP-based telephone interact with the phone user to facilitate sign-on. |
| US08695072B2 |
User identification method applicable to network transaction and system thereof
A user identification method and a system thereof. A user device delivers a certificate packet with a unique serial number to a certificate server, and receives a reply packet with a password from a password server. The user device then uses the password and the unique serial number to produce a user terminal identification code, and then delivers an identification packet with the user terminal identification code to the certificate server. After receiving the certificate packet, the certificate server delivers an inquiry packet with the unique serial number to the password server, and then the password server inquires about password and expiration time thereof according to the unique serial number. After receiving the identification packet, the certificate server verifies the validity of the user terminal identification code and the expiration time with a database to determine if the user is admitted to proceed to the subsequent transaction. |
| US08695069B1 |
Session management between a web application and a CRM system
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system that facilitates session management between a web application and a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. During operation, the system receives, at a proxy, a service call intended for a CRM system. Next, the system modifies a header of the service call to include authentication credentials for the CRM system. The system then determines if an available session token for the CRM system exists at the proxy. If so, the system modifies the header of the service call to include the session token. Next, the system forwards the service call with the modified header to the CRM system. The system then receives a response to the service call, which includes the session token. Upon receiving the response, the system stores the session token at the proxy for a subsequent service call. Finally, the system forwards the response to the web application. |
| US08695062B2 |
Authentication/authorization protocol for media processing components
A computer-implemented authentication protocol is used to subvert man-in-the-middle-type attacks on communications between software components that are permitted to interoperate within a processing environment, such as a media processing environment, pursuant to one or more licenses. In one exemplary scenario, a particular application transmits to a particular media processing component (“MPC”), among other things, a cryptographically protected message including a reference to a process in which the application is running and/or a GUID that the application used to invoke the MPC. If the received process and/or GUID are verified, it is possible for in-the-clear communication to occur between the application and the MPC without man-in-the-middle subversion. |
| US08695060B2 |
System and method for creating secure applications
A method for generating a secure application is described herein. The method can include the steps of obtaining a target application and decomposing the target application into original files that contain predictable instructions. One or more predictable instructions in the original files may be identified. In addition, the target application may be modified to create the secure application by binding one or more intercepts to the target application. These intercepts can enable the modification of the predictable instructions in accordance with one or more policies such that the behavior of the secure application is different from the original behavior of the target application. Modification of the target application may be conducted without access to the source code of the target application. |
| US08695059B2 |
Method and system for providing network security services in a multi-tenancy format
An approach is provided for performing cloud based computer network security services. Security policies are established for each of a number of subscribers. The subscribers are provided access to the security services via a common network cloud managed by the service provider. The security services are administered according to a multi-tenancy format, which enables the subscribers' data communications to be separately processed. The security services include network firewalling and filtering of content originating from or destined to one or more networks associated with the subscribers. |
| US08695053B2 |
Apparatus and method for multimedia data reception, processing, routing, storage, and access using a web / cloud-computing synchronization of personal multimedia data
An apparatus and a method for multimedia data handling to a web or cloud-computing service are disclosed. A set-top box can generate a pre-encoded stream of digitized data after receiving a raw incoming multimedia signal or after receiving a pre-processed, decoded, decompressed, and/or decrypted incoming multimedia signal from a service provider-specific signal receiver. The set-top box can also generate streams of encoded multimedia data from the pre-encoded stream of digitized data and segmentize the streams of encoded multimedia data into individually-viewable segments for uploading to the web or cloud-computing service, wherein a size of each segment varies based on a current connection bandwidth availability and/or a workload on the set-top box. By automatically segmentizing the streams of encoded multimedia data into individually-viewable segments for the web or cloud-computing service, a user can start viewing the currently-uploading multimedia data faster than a conventional single stream upload. |
| US08695052B2 |
Network system and image projection apparatus
A network system includes an image projection apparatus that projects image data; a first terminal; and a second terminal where the first terminal includes an original image data storing unit that stores original image data and a corresponding information generating unit that generates corresponding information in which image identification data of the image data for projection, generated from the original image data, capable of identifying the original image data and terminal identification data for identifying the first terminal correspond with each other, and the image projection apparatus includes a corresponding information sending unit that sends, upon receiving the request for delivering the corresponding information of the image data being projected from the second terminal, the corresponding information stored in the storing unit, to the second terminal. |
| US08695051B2 |
Video quality monitoring method, distribution server, and client
A video quality monitoring method includes a distribution server measuring first video quality index values according to a full-reference method by comparing a video, distributed from the distribution server to a client through a network, with a degraded video, generated by causing multiple scenarios of quality degradation due to the network in the video in a pseudo manner, creating characteristic data of first quality degradation values, obtained by causing the quality degradation to vary with the scenarios at regular intervals, and the first video quality index values corresponding to the respective scenarios, and transmitting the characteristic data to the client; and the client measuring a second quality degradation value in the video distributed through the network, and calculating a second video quality index value, equivalent to a value according to the full-reference method, of the distributed video from the measured second quality degradation value and the characteristic data. |
| US08695048B1 |
Systems and methods of processing closed captioning for video on demand content
A method includes receiving closed captioning data at a computing device. The closed captioning data is associated with a video on demand asset and is represented in a first format. The method also includes converting the closed captioning data from the first format to a platform-independent format and converting the closed captioning data from the platform-independent format to a second format. The method further includes transmitting the closed captioning data in the second format to a destination device. |
| US08695047B2 |
Video stream protection
System and method for protecting video stream quality during transmission over a wireless medium. A plurality of video streams may be transmitted to one or more clients in a wireless manner. It may be determined that a size of a transmit queue is above a first threshold. The plurality of video streams may be differentiated, as part of which a video stream may be selected for penalization in order to protect the other video streams of the plurality of video streams. A scheduling penalty may be imposed on the selected video stream based on determining that the size of the transmit queue is above the first threshold and based on differentiating the plurality of video streams. |
| US08695046B2 |
Bilateral control system and method of a vehicle-use front seat audio device and a back seat entertainment device
The present invention is related to a bilateral control system and method of a vehicle-use front seat audio device and a back seat entertainment device according to the present invention, the system includes a vehicle-use front seat audio device, a back seat entertainment device and a connection cable, the control method is provided to copy the signals and pictures of the vehicle-use front seat audio device or the back seat entertainment device and transmit mutually by utilizing the connection cable as the bilateral transmission passageway, the signals and pictures may be mutually bilateral controlled and transmitted via the connection cable by controlling the physical keys or operating on the touch panel. |
| US08695044B1 |
Wireless multimedia content brokerage service for real time selective content provisioning
A wireless multimedia content brokerage service can provide for real time selective content extraction in a manner that allows users to easily obtain, at a mobile device, one or more portions of a real time multimedia composite content presentation. The brokerage service ensures that the experience is transparent from the point of view of the user, and additionally does not require any specific interaction between the user and the display, or interaction between the user and the content service provider (or providers). Instead, the brokerage service handles the transactional details involved in subscribing to content and in obtaining, formatting, and forwarding content to the mobile device. Additionally, since the content of interest is not forwarded from the display itself and since some embodiments of the system do not rely on any interactivity at the display to identify the display device or content, relatively unsophisticated display devices can be used. |
| US08695033B2 |
Networks and systems for generating and/or delivering hybrid broadcast content
Networks and/or devices for enabling and/or providing live or non-live interactivity with televised programming and/or its viewers and/or fans and/or hosts and/or actors and/or contestants. In certain (non-limiting) embodiments, mobile or handheld devices (e.g., mobile phones or laptops) communicably connected or connectable to networks having platforms thereon for permitting or providing live or real-time interactivity with televised programming and/or its viewers/fans/hosts/actors/contestants. In other embodiments, methods for performing or providing the interactivity described herein. In still other embodiments, software, residing on a data storage device, which directs a processor to perform actions in accordance with and/or to obtain one or more of the objectives of the technologies and methods described herein. |
| US08695025B2 |
Media transportation mechanism, method of controlling a media transportation mechanism, and media processing device
A media transportation mechanism has: a storage unit that stores disc-shaped media with a center hole in a stack; a transportation arm that moves vertically and has a gripping member to hold a medium stored in the storage unit, and a separating member that moves radially to the medium from the hole of the medium; and a transportation arm drive member that sets the ascent speed of the transportation arm to a first speed, and to a second speed that is slower than the first speed, when moving the transportation arm vertically up while the gripping member holds the medium. |
| US08695023B2 |
Adjustable medium holding unit and medium processing apparatus
A holding portion includes at least three pressing members which are operable to press an inner peripheral of a hole formed on the medium. The pressing members are movable between first positions where the pressing members do not come in contact with the inner peripheral and second positions where the pressing members come in contact with and press the inner peripheral. Each of the pressing members is adapted to interlockingly move with each other when moving toward the first positions and to press the inner peripheral independently from the other members when positioning the second positions. |
| US08695018B2 |
Extensible framework for handling different mark up language parsers and generators in a computing device
A computing device programmed with an extensible framework that accepts one or more mark-up language parsers and/or generators, each implemented as plug-ins to the framework, with different plug-ins enabling different kinds of mark up languages to be handled by the device. In this way, the client is no longer tied to a single kind of parser or generator; it can operate with any different kind of parser compatible with the intermediary layer, yet it remains far simpler that prior art clients that are hard-coded to operate directly with several different kinds of parsers and generators. |
| US08695015B2 |
Application message conversion using a feed adapter
An indication of a configuration policy of a plurality of configuration policies is received at a feed adapter. The configuration policy of the plurality of configuration policies is selected based, at least in part, on the received indication of the configuration policy. The configuration policy of the plurality of configuration policies specifies a conversion rule from an input message format to an output message format using at least one conversion function of a plurality of conversion functions. The conversion rule specifies types of arguments that the at least one conversion function receives and returns. An application message having the input message format is received in the feed adapter. The feed adapter converts the application message having the input message format to an application message having the output message format according to the conversion rule specified by the configuration policy of the plurality of configuration policies. |
| US08695014B2 |
Distributed function execution for hybrid systems
A method includes processing an application by a host including one or more processors and distributing at least a portion of the application to an accelerator for execution. The method includes instructing the accelerator to create a buffer on the accelerator and instructing the accelerator to execute the portion of the application, wherein the accelerator writes data to the buffer. The method also includes instructing the accelerator to transmit the data in the buffer to the host before the application requests the data in the buffer. The accelerator aggregates the data in the buffer before transmitting the data to the host based upon one or more runtime conditions in the host. |
| US08695013B2 |
System and method for thread protected testing
A method performed by a system including one or more data processing systems. The method includes receiving a plurality of requesting process calls for a target process from one or more requesting processes, and identifying dependencies between the requesting process calls. The method includes sending the requesting process call to the target process for execution on multiple threads, including sending thread execution parameters corresponding to the requesting process calls. The method includes receiving results, corresponding to the requesting process calls, from the target process. The method includes sending the results to the requesting processes corresponding to the respective requesting process calls. |
| US08695008B2 |
Method and system for dynamically controlling power to multiple cores in a multicore processor of a portable computing device
A method and system for dynamically determining the degree of workload parallelism and to automatically adjust the number of cores (and/or processors) supporting a workload in a portable computing device are described. The method and system includes a parallelism monitor module that monitors the activity of an operating system scheduler and one or more work queues of a multicore processor and/or a plurality of central processing units (“CPUs”). The parallelism monitor may calculate a percentage of parallel work based on a current mode of operation of the multicore processor or a plurality of processors. This percentage of parallel work is then passed to a multiprocessor decision algorithm module. The multiprocessor decision algorithm module determines if the current mode of operation for the multicore processor (or plurality of processors) should be changed based on the calculated percentage of parallel work. |
| US08695006B2 |
Resource management method
There is provided a method of managing a resource within a computer system using a configuration wrapper, the method comprising: providing a configuration file comprising configuration data for the resource; generating metadata related to the configuration data; and automatically processing the metadata to produce a configuration wrapper for the resource. The configuration wrapper may be a java object with management attributes and methods. |
| US08695003B2 |
Method for managing data accessibility by scheduling three types of executable agents associated with pre-defined access rights within a domain
Multiple types of executable agents operating within a domain. The domain includes mutable shared state and immutable shared state, with agents internal to the domain only operating on the shared state. Writer agents are defined to be agents that have read access and write access to mutable shared state and read access only to immutable shared state. General reader agents have read access to both mutable shared state and immutable shared state and have no write access. Immutable reader agents have read access to only immutable shared state and have no write access. By appropriate scheduling of the different types of agents, data races may be reduced or eliminated. |
| US08695002B2 |
Multi-threaded processors and multi-processor systems comprising shared resources
An apparatus is provided comprising at least two processing entities. Shared resources are usable by a first and a second processing entity. A use of the shared resources is detected, and the execution of instructions associated with said processing entities is controlled based on the detection. |
| US08695001B2 |
Loading services based on a request and setting permission level to enable execution of commands or services exposed based on a role of requester
A service broker for asynchronous execution of software. The broker functions include dynamically loading working modules from a specified directory, publishing the working module commands, receiving service requests from clients, and upon successful authentication and authorization, dispatching the requests to module command queues for scheduling and execution. The modules are invoked in separate domains so that management functions can control the modules independently. A management application facilitates interactive user scheduling of the actions being invoked. This can also be accomplished automatically according to business rules, for example. The management application also facilitates checking the progress on an action that is occurring, displaying errors that occur during the command execution, results of an action can also be displayed, and scheduling of requests. |
| US08694998B2 |
Cancellable command application programming interface (API) framework
Embodiments are provided that include the use of a cancellable command application programming interface (API) framework that provides cooperative multitasking for synchronous and asynchronous operations based in part on a command timing sequence and a cancellable command API definition. A method of an embodiment enables a user or programmer to use a cancellable command API definition as part of implementing a responsive application interface using a command timing sequence to control execution of active tasks. A cancellable command API framework of an embodiment includes a command block including a command function, a task engine to monitor the command function, and a timer component to control execution of asynchronous and synchronous tasks based in part on first and second control timing intervals associated with a command timing sequence. Other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US08694995B2 |
Application initiated negotiations for resources meeting a performance parameter in a virtualized computing environment
A hypervisor negotiates to reserve at least one available local resource in a host system that meets a performance parameter for at least one resource specified in a reservation request by a particular logical partition from among one or more logical partitions of virtualized pools of resources managed by the hypervisor in the host system, wherein the at least one performance parameter is specified by a particular application initiating the reservation request. The hypervisor, responsive to determining that the at least one available resource is not available in the host system, negotiates for offers to migrate the particular logical partition to at least one other host system comprising at least one available remote resource that meets the performance parameter, wherein the at least one other host system is managed by at least one other hypervisor that manages one or more other logical partitions of virtualized pools of resources. |
| US08694992B2 |
Traversing memory structures to parse guest operating system instrumentation information in a hypervisor
Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are provided for acquiring guest operating system instrumentation information in a hypervisor. Embodiments include receiving from a platform management application, by a hypervisor communication module of the hypervisor, a platform request for guest operating system instrumentation information associated with at least one guest operating system executing within the hypervisor; in response to receiving the platform request for the guest operating system instrumentation information, retrieving through shared memory between the hypervisor and the guest operating system, by the hypervisor communication module, the guest operating system instrumentation information associated with the at least one guest operating system; and transmitting, by the hypervisor communication module, the guest operating system instrumentation information to the platform management application. |
| US08694990B2 |
Utilizing system configuration information to determine a data migration order
Methods, systems and computer program products for utilizing system configuration information to determine a data migration order. The method includes computer instructions for establishing communication from a source virtual machine to a target virtual machine, the source virtual machine including a memory. The configuration information associated with the source virtual machine is determined and utilized to determine an order of migration for pages in the memory. The pages in the memory are transmitted to the target virtual machine in the order of migration. |
| US08694984B2 |
Memory apparatus and method of updating firmware of the memory apparatus
A method of updating firmware that is included in a memory apparatus that includes first and second volatile memories and a non-volatile memory, can be provided by storing new firmware in the second volatile memory when old firmware is loaded into the first volatile memory and determining on a component basis which of a plurality of components of the old firmware is an updated component in the new firmware. |
| US08694980B2 |
Efficient egonet computation in a weighted directed graph
An embodiment of the invention pertains to a weighted directed graph comprising multiple nodes and edges that each extends between two nodes. The embodiment includes processing edges to generate a forward and reverse edge corresponding to each edge. Forward and reverse edges are processed to generate indirect edges, each comprising two edge components, and extending between two nodes. One node associated with each forward edge, each reverse edge, and each indirect edge is selected to be the key node of its associated edge. All forward, reverse and indirect edges having a particular node as their respective key nodes are placed into a group. All edges of the group are then selectively processed to provide information pertaining to an egonet of the graph that has the particular node as its egonode. |
| US08694973B2 |
Abstracting computational instructions to improve performance
Methods and systems for executing a code stream of non-native binary code on a computing system are disclosed. One method includes parsing the code stream to detect a plurality of elements including one or more branch destinations, and traversing the code stream to detect a plurality of non-native operators. The method also includes executing a pattern matching algorithm against the plurality of non-native operators to find combinations of two or more non-native operators that do not span across a detected branch destination and that correspond to one or more target operators executable by the computing system. The method further includes generating a second code stream executable on the computing system including the one or more target operators. |
| US08694972B2 |
System and method for interoperating with foreign objects from a single language computing environment
A mechanism for providing automatic interoperation between native objects created in a single language computing environment and objects created in external virtual machines and foreign class systems is discussed. Embodiments of the present invention provides a class definition syntax for objects created in the single language computing environment that provides the ability to directly subclass external classes and implement external interfaces. One embodiment of the present invention also permits a foreign object system to instantiate native objects and to create foreign subclasses of native classes. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention provides bidirectional mapping between metadata associated with objects created with each of a plurality of different types of foreign object systems and metadata created in a form supported by the single language computing environment. |
| US08694970B2 |
Unified debug system with multiple user-configurable trace volumes and trace buffers
A unified debug system with multiple user-configurable trace volumes is disclosed, including embodiments as a system, a method, and a computer-readable medium. Embodiments of the present invention provide more robust and flexible solutions for introducing configurable trace volumes to firmware, allowing a user to specify firmware system configurations for trace buffers, trace frames, and trace volumes, and offer other advantages over the prior art. One embodiment of the present invention pertains to a system that includes a firmware component comprising firmware, and a firmware interface communicatively connected to the firmware component. The firmware includes a plurality of trace volumes for storing a plurality of trace entries. The trace volumes are user-configurable through the firmware interface. The plurality of trace volumes includes first, second and third trace volumes. The first trace volume includes storing at least some of the trace entries to a trace buffer in a first volatile memory component. The second trace volume includes storing at least some of the trace entries to one or more trace buffers in one or more trace frames in a second volatile memory component. The third trace volume includes storing at least some of the trace entries to one or more trace buffers in one or more trace frames in a non-volatile memory component. |
| US08694969B2 |
Analyzing factory processes in a software factory
A method, system, and/or computer-readable medium analyzes problems in a software factory. Factory metrics that describe resources and operations within the software factory are collected and analyzed to detect problems that might have occurred during an execution of a work packet within the software factory. If the detected problems exceed one or more threshold criteria, then a detailed analysis of the detected problems is performed by matching each detected problem to one or more specific root causes through an analysis of the factory process building blocks. |
| US08694964B1 |
Managing code samples in documentation
Documentation having code samples is managed. Documentation describing programming code for a software product is received. The documentation references a code sample having an associated test module for determining whether the code sample is valid. The code sample is tested by executing the associated test module to produce a test result indicating whether the code sample is valid. The documentation, code sample, and test result are stored. The documentation, code sample, and test result may be provided to a client adapted to display the code sample and test result to a user of the client. Invalid code samples in the documentation may be identified using the test modules and the invalid code samples may be replaced to make the code samples valid. |
| US08694963B2 |
Systems, methods and apparatus for developing and maintaining evolving systems with software product lines
Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which an evolutionary system is managed and viewed as a software product line. In some embodiments, the core architecture is a relatively unchanging part of the system, and each version of the system is viewed as a product from the product line. Each software product is generated from the core architecture with some agent-based additions. The result may be a multi-agent system software product line. |
| US08694962B2 |
Aspect-oriented parallel programming language extensions
Techniques for using one or more aspect-oriented parallelism primitives to implement one or more aspects of a program in parallel are provided. The techniques include using one or more aspect-oriented parallelism primitives to implement one or more aspects of a program in parallel, wherein implementing the one or more aspects of a program in parallel comprises implementing the one or more aspects of a program in parallel on a multi-core processor. |
| US08694959B2 |
Multi language editor
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or method that facilitates creating a portion of an industrial process. An interface component can receive a first portion of data associated with a first programming language and a second portion of data associated with a second programming language, wherein the first programming language is independent and disparate of the second programming language. An editor component can create at least one of a portion of an industrial process or a portion of a mixed language object by enabling the combination of the first portion of data and the second portion of data independent of the respective programming languages. |
| US08694957B2 |
Method and apparatus for an XML reporter
An invention is provided for generating an XML test result file. A key parameter and a value parameter are received, wherein the key parameter relates to a tag. A first string is then generated based on the key parameter and the value parameter. Included in the first string is a first beginning tag and a first ending tag, each based on the key parameter. In addition, the first string includes the value parameter positioned between the first beginning tag and the first ending tag. The first string is then inserted into a test results file that stores a second string that has a second beginning tag and a second ending tag. In particular, the first string is inserted between the second beginning tag and a second ending tag. By continuing in this manner, an XML test results file can be generated using the embodiments of the present invention. |
| US08694948B2 |
Reconfigurable circuit generation device, method, and program
A reconfigurable circuit generation device comprises: a netlist generation unit that generates as a shared netlist a netlist that can be shared among a plurality of netlists having a common portion, and a resource reduction unit that reduces resources of the reconfigurable circuit where the plurality of netlists are to be implemented, in a range in which the shared netlist can be implemented. |
| US08694946B1 |
Simultaneous switching noise optimization
This invention provides methods, computer program products, and systems to guide a user in optimizing the Simultaneous Switching Noise (SSN) of an electronic device by using visual approaches on a graphical user interface (GUI). Also provided is an interactive feedback mechanism that enables the user to evaluate the effectiveness of an optimization method. A matrix representation of the different I/O pins on the device shows the level of SSN at different victim pins caused by switching aggressor pins. The SSN is depicted using different graphical representations. Associated with the SSN of each victim pin is the graphical representation of its accuracy. The accuracy rating denotes the reliability of the SSN and is an indication of how sensitive a victim pin is to errors. In the interactive feedback mechanism, user input on SSN optimization is received and used to calculate the new SSN and accuracy rating of different victim pins on the device. The new data is then updated in a timely manner on the GUI. |
| US08694944B1 |
Predicting routability of integrated circuits
Methods, computer program products, and systems are disclosed associated with calculating a routability metric for a second IC design using inputs from the compilation to a first IC design. The first and second IC designs are alternative implementation options for a user circuit design, such as FPGA and structured ASIC options. Information about user design demands on routing resources of one IC design are considered along with information about the projected supply of routing resources in another IC design, to produce a routing metric. The routing metric may be mapped to a degree of difficulty indicator, and either may be used to condition a compile of the user circuit to the second IC design or be used in other ways. |
| US08694937B2 |
Implementing and checking electronic circuits with flexible ramptime limits and tools for performing the same
A method of manufacturing an electronic circuit employing a flexible ramptime limit and an electronic circuit are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes: (1) physically synthesizing a logical representation of an electronic circuit employing flexible ramptime limits, (2) performing a timing test on the physically synthesized electronic circuit employing the flexible ramptime limits and a processor and (3) determining if there is a violation of the flexible ramptime limits. |
| US08694933B2 |
Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for implementing electronic circuit designs with simulation awareness
Disclosed are methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for implementing electronic designs with simulation awareness. A schematic is identified or created and simulated at the schematic level to characterize the functional behavior of the circuit or to ensure the circuit design meets the required design specifications. Physical data of a component of the design is identified, created, or updated, and the electrical parasitic associated with physical data is characterized. One or more electrical characteristics associated with the parasitic is further characterized and mapped to the simulator to re-simulate the circuit design to analyze the impact of parasitics. Some embodiments re-run the same simulation process incrementally in an interactive manner by accepting incremental design or parameter changes from the design environment. |
| US08694932B2 |
Layout determination
A device includes a processor and a computer-readable medium including computer-readable instructions. Upon execution by the processor, the computer-readable instructions cause the device to receive a first request from a second device, where the first request is a layout request that includes an identification of a space. The computer-readable instructions also cause the device to provide a second request to a third device, where the second request includes the identification of the space. The computer-readable instructions also cause the device to receive one or more dimension corresponding to the space, and to provide the one or more dimension to the third device. The computer-readable instructions further cause the device to receive a generated layout from the third device, and to provide the generated layout to the second device. |
| US08694931B1 |
Systems and methods for super-threading of integrated circuit design programs
In one embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed including receiving a netlist of an integrated circuit design; executing a first copy of an integrated circuit design program with a first processor associated with a first memory space to independently perform work on a first portion of the integrated circuit design; and executing a second copy of the integrated circuit design program with a second processor associated with a second memory space to independently perform work on a second portion of the integrated circuit design; wherein the second memory space is independent of the first memory space. |
| US08694929B2 |
Method and apparatus for the position determination of structures on a mask for microlithography
A method and an apparatus for determining the position of a structure on a mask for microlithography, in which the position is determined by comparing an aerial image, measured by a recording device, of a portion of the mask with an aerial image determined by simulation. The position determination includes carrying out a plurality of such comparisons which differ from one another with regard to the input parameters of the simulation. |
| US08694928B2 |
Pattern selection for lithographic model calibration
The present invention relates generally to methods and apparatuses for test pattern selection for computational lithography model calibration. According to some aspects, the pattern selection algorithms of the present invention can be applied to any existing pool of candidate test patterns. According to some aspects, the present invention automatically selects those test patterns that are most effective in determining the optimal model parameter values from an existing pool of candidate test patterns, as opposed to designing optimal patterns. According to additional aspects, the selected set of test patterns according to the invention is able to excite all the known physics and chemistry in the model formulation, making sure that the wafer data for the test patterns can drive the model calibration to the optimal parameter values that realize the upper bound of prediction accuracy imposed by the model formulation. |
| US08694927B2 |
Method of designing pattern layouts
A method of designing a pattern layout includes defining one shot area including a plurality of chip areas, generating an initial common layout in the plurality of chip areas, primarily correcting the initial layout to form a primary corrected layout, and secondarily correcting the primary corrected layout independently to form a plurality of secondary corrected layouts. |
| US08694925B1 |
Generating customized graphical user interfaces for mobile processing devices
Systems and techniques for producing graphical user interfaces on handheld mobile devices include generating a markup language code defining a graphical user interface component for display on the handheld mobile device and rendering the generated markup language code to produce the graphical user interface component. In some cases, the graphical user interface component includes at least one adaptable attribute based on a selection made by a user. In other cases, a graphical user interface component is generated using static markup language code or a combination of static and dynamically generated markup language code. Graphical user interface components defined by markup language codes can be displayed in an overall graphical user interface along with components that are native to the device and/or that are defined by an application development platform. |
| US08694920B2 |
Displaying application information in an application-switching user interface
An application status system is described herein that informs the user about application-specific status updates and notifications through a changing status icon associated with an application-switching user interface displayed by an operating system when the application is running. When an application has focus, there is typically no way for another application to display status to the user without displaying a dialog box or a notification balloon that interrupts the user. The application status system takes advantage of the existing application-switching user interface to display a lightweight status icon overlay on the application-switching user interface itself. Thus, the application status system allows applications to provide application-specific status updates without interrupting a user's activity in another application and without adding additional UI for a user to process. |
| US08694916B2 |
Method and apparatus for spatially indicating notifications
An apparatus, method, and computer program product are provided for spatially indicating notifications to a user via display regions that are arranged (e.g., perimeterally) about the display of an apparatus. The apparatus may include a processor and a memory including computer program code which provide for the presentation, in a first display region, of an indication of a notification associated with a first application and provide for the presentation, in a second display region, of a non-pictorial indication of a notification associated with a second application. The first and second display regions may, for example, be arranged along the edges of a polygonal display. As such, a user may be able to quickly discern which application is responsible for a particular notification, and the user's view of an underlying application provided on the display may not be obscured or diminished as a result of the issuance of the notification. |
| US08694915B2 |
Enhanced telephony computer user interface allowing user interaction and control of a telephone using a personal computer
Enhanced telephony computer user interfaces seamlessly integrate and leverage the features of personal computers and telephones. The manner in which media is presented at a computing system can also be modified automatically in response to detected telephone operations. These modifications can include pausing media in response to a detected telephone call and/or adjusting a volume of the media presentation. The media presentation/volume can also be resumed/restored upon detecting that the telephone call has terminated. |
| US08694909B2 |
Device for analysing variable magnitudes by simultaneous multiple windowing
The device (D) is dedicated to the analysis of time varying quantities. It comprises a tool for managing display windows (MA) each for displaying the representation of a selected quantity and each associated with a first quantity selection tool (01) and a second time reference(s) selection tool (02) coupled to the management tool (MA). The device (D) further includes a third linking tool (03a-03c) which i) allows a user, who has selected several quantities and related time references, to select at least two of the display windows and the selected quantities, and ii) connects together the first tools (01) and/or second tools (02) of the selected display windows so that the selection of a quantity by the user using one of the first related tools (01), or master tool, of a master window results in the selection of the same quantity by the management tool (MA) at each so-called slave display window, and/or so that the selection of a time reference by one of the second related tools (02) results in the selection of the same time reference by the management tool (MA) at each slave display window. |
| US08694902B2 |
Device, method, and graphical user interface for modifying a multi-column application
A method includes: displaying simultaneously a plurality of columns in a multi-column application that comprises: a first column that includes user-modifiable content items; and a second column that includes user-selectable items; detecting a first input that corresponds to a request to enter an edit mode for the first column; in response to detecting the first input: entering the edit mode for the first column; and deactivating the user-selectable items in the second column; while in the edit mode for the first column: detecting one or more edit inputs; and in response to detecting the edit inputs, editing one or more of the user-modifiable content items in the first column; detecting a second input that corresponds to a request to exit the edit mode for the first column; and in response to detecting the second input: exiting the edit mode, and reactivating the user-selectable items in the second column. |
| US08694896B2 |
Online story collaboration
An online collaborative story system allows multiple people to collaborate on creating a story by contributing content of various types to a server computer, where it is voted on by the collaborators or a designated editor to create the finished story. Additionally, one or more of the collaborators can be rewarded for their participation in the story. |
| US08694894B2 |
Streaming graphic method and arrangement data for building control systems
A method for displaying building control system information includes receiving an interpreted program over the Internet using a web-browser. The method further includes executing the interpreted program to display at least a first graphical element, the first graphical element having a fixed element and a variable element, the variable element representative of a first value. The method also includes executing the interpreted program to receive at least a second value over the Internet, the second value comprising non-graphical information, and executing the interpreted program to display the first graphical element such that the variable element is representative of the second value. |
| US08694887B2 |
Dynamic contextual shortcuts
Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to dynamically selecting and/or determining terms for use with contextual shortcuts in electronic documents such as, for example, web pages. |
| US08694882B2 |
Control device, method of controlling a recording device, and a storage medium
A recording device is made to record text after suitably correlating universal character code characters to font data that is actually stored in the printer. A printer 20 stores a plurality of code pages CP each storing font data for a plurality of characters that is used when recording text on a recording medium. Based on the plural code pages CP stored by the printer 20, a character code conversion table 18 that stores Unicode characters correlated to information identifying a code page CP containing font data corresponding to the Unicode character and information denoting the storage address of the font data on the code page CP is created or updated. |
| US08694881B2 |
Viewing file modifications
Upon closing and/or saving a file, a user may view changes made to the file. |
| US08694879B1 |
Efficient use of CRC with limited data
An automotive sensor reads from memory previously stored back-calculated diagnostic-code values for which a fixed cyclic-redundancy-check (“CRC”) value is valid and transmits the previously stored back-calculated diagnostic-code values read from memory each paired together with the fixed CRC value. |
| US08694878B2 |
Processor instructions to accelerate Viterbi decoding
Viterbi decoding is performed on a microcontroller by initializing a state-metric array by executing load instructions to load state-metric data from a memory module into a set of registers in the microcontroller. Butterfly processing on the state-metric array is performed by executing Viterbi processing instructions fetched from a program storage module to manipulate the state-metric (SM) data in the set of registers for each Viterbi butterfly in a stage of Viterbi decoding to form a final set of state-metric data and trace bits. After completing each stage, a final set of state-metric data is stored in the memory module by executing store instructions. |
| US08694877B2 |
Max-log-map equivalence log likelihood ratio generation soft viterbi architecture system and method
A modified soft output Viterbi algorithm (SOVA) detector receives a sequence of soft information values and determines a best path and an alternate path for each soft information value and further determines, when the best and alternate paths lead to the same value for a given soft information value, whether there is a third path departing from the alternate path that leads to an opposite decision with respect to the best path for a given soft information value. The SOVA detector then considers this third path when updating the reliability of the best path. The modified SOVA detector achieves max-log-map equivalence effectively through the Fossorier approach and includes modified reliability metric units for the first N stages of the SOVA detector, where N is the memory depth of a given path, and includes conventional reliability metric units for the remaining stages of the detector. |
| US08694874B2 |
Circuit and method for parallel perforation in rate matching
A circuit and a method for parallel perforation in rate matching can adopt three selector arrays and three register groups. The first selector array is configured to remove null bits in input data and output the remaining data to the first register group; the second selector array is configured to combine the first register group and the third register group and then output the combined data to the second register group; during the combination, the valid data in the third register group are preferentially selected, and then the data in the first register group are selected; Further, the third selector array is configured to output remaining valid data in the first selector group to the third register group if the valid data in the first selector group are not used out while combining the first register group and the third register group by the second selector array. |
| US08694871B2 |
Iterative decoding method for encoded signal and iterative decoding apparatus for encoded signal
A iterative decoding method for iteratively carrying out a decoding process for an encoded segmented and signal transmitted in a plurality of (Ncb) sub blocks for each predetermined block unit includes storing a number of (ncb) sub blocks smaller than the number (Ncb) of the sub blocks; and successively and iteratively carrying out a decoding process for each of the stored (ncb) sub blocks within a specified time period determined based on the number (ncb). |
| US08694865B2 |
Data storage device configured to reduce buffer traffic and related method of operation
A method is provided for performing a write operation in a data storage device comprising a storage medium, a processing unit, and a buffer memory storing data to be transferred to the storage medium under control of the processing unit. The method comprises aggregating data in the buffer memory as a strip group comprising multiple data strips, transferring data strips in at least one strip group to the storage medium, calculating a parity strip based on the transferred data strips of the at least one strip group without additional access to the buffer memory, and transferring the parity strip to the storage medium. |
| US08694861B2 |
Memory device repair apparatus, systems, and methods
Operations within a memory device to replace one or more selected failing memory cells with one or more repair memory cells and to correct data digits read from other failing memory cells in the memory device. |
| US08694857B2 |
Systems and methods for error detection and correction in a memory module which includes a memory buffer
The present systems include a memory module containing a plurality of RAM chips, typically DRAM, and a memory buffer arranged to buffer data between the DRAM and a host controller. The memory buffer includes an error detection and correction circuit arranged to ensure the integrity of the stored data words. One way in which this may be accomplished is by computing parity bits for each data word and storing them in parallel with each data word. The error detection and correction circuit can be arranged to detect and correct single errors, or multi-errors if the host controller includes its own error detection and correction circuit. Alternatively, the locations of faulty storage cells can be determined and stored in an address match table, which is then used to control multiplexers that direct data around the faulty cells, to redundant DRAM chips in one embodiment or to embedded SRAM in another. |
| US08694856B2 |
Physically unclonable function with tamper prevention and anti-aging system
Systems for generating an identifying response pattern comprising a memory (120) used as a physically unclonable function configured for generating a response pattern dependent on physical, at least partially random characteristics of said memory may be vulnerable to freezing attacks and to aging. A memory-overwriting device (110) configured for overwriting at least a first portion of the plurality of memory locations to obscure the response pattern in the memory avoids freezing attacks. An anti-degradation device (160) configured to write to each respective location of a second portion of the plurality of memory locations an inverse of a response previously read from the memory reduces the effects of aging. |
| US08694854B1 |
Read threshold setting based on soft readout statistics
A method for data storage includes storing data in analog memory cells by programming the memory cells with respective analog input values. After storing the data, respective analog output values are read from the memory cells using multiple read thresholds, which define multiple ranges of the analog output values. Respective numbers of read errors in the data, corresponding to the analog output values falling in the ranges, are assessed. The stored data is recovered based on respective numbers of the read errors assessed in the ranges. |
| US08694852B2 |
Nonvolatile memory devices with age-based variability of read operations and methods of operating same
Integrated circuit memory systems include a nonvolatile memory device having an array of nonvolatile memory cells therein and a memory controller, which is electrically coupled to the nonvolatile memory device. The memory controller is configured to apply signals to the nonvolatile memory device that cause the nonvolatile memory device to modify how data is read from the array of nonvolatile memory cells. This modification occurs in response to detecting an increase in an age of the nonvolatile memory device. The age of the nonvolatile memory device may be determined by keeping a count of how many times the nonvolatile memory device has undergone a program/erase cycle. |
| US08694851B1 |
Adaptive multiple-input multiple-ouput successive interference cancellation receivers
A system including a first receiver module and a first interference canceller module. The first receiver module is configured to receive a first signal including a first set of codewords and to generate a first set of decoded codewords by decoding at least one of the first set of codewords. The first interference canceller module is configured to measure first reliability metrics of codewords corresponding to the first set of decoded codewords; based on the first reliability metrics, select a second set of decoded codewords from the first set; generate a second signal based on the second set of decoded codewords; and subtract at least a portion of the second signal from the first signal to cancel interference of codewords corresponding to the second set of decoded codewords on the second set of codewords in the first signal. |
| US08694846B2 |
Method for receiving and transmitting data blocks
The present invention provides a scalable and reliable feedback suppression method for receiving and transmitting data block. The method comprises receiving at least one initial data packet of the data block which is sent by the transmitter to the multicast group of receivers; and sending at least one NAK packet indicating packet loss to the transmitter by at least one receiver of the multicast group, wherein the at least one NAK packet is sent in a single uplink time slot dedicated to said multicast group of receivers, and wherein the NAK packet is identical for all receivers of said multicast group. |
| US08694838B2 |
Cache memory, processor, and production methods for cache memory and processor
A cache memory built in a processor comprising a plurality of independent memory blocks, pass/fail information memory unit memorizing a presence/absence of a failure occurring in each of the memory blocks, and a screening control function substituting a sound memory block for a failed memory block based on a memory content in the pass/fail information memory unit. |
| US08694835B2 |
System health monitoring
An apparatus for health monitoring includes a settings module, a field data module, a settings update module, and a monitoring module. The settings module is configured to store health monitoring settings for a plurality of monitored subsystems. The field data module is configured to receive field data, the field data comprising failure data of one or more systems of the same type as at least one of the monitored subsystems. The settings update module is configured to update the health monitoring settings stored by the settings module, wherein the health monitoring settings are updated based at least in part on the field data. The monitoring module is configured to perform one or more health monitoring tasks according to the health monitoring settings. |
| US08694832B2 |
Assist thread analysis and debug mechanism
A processor recognizes a request from a program executing on a first hardware thread to initiate software code on a second hardware thread. In response, the second hardware thread initiates and commences executing the software code. During execution, the software code uses hardware registers of the second hardware thread to store data. Upon termination of the software code, the second hardware thread invokes a hypervisor program, which extracts data from the hardware registers and stores the extracted data in a shared memory area. In turn, a debug routine executes and retrieves the extracted data from the shared memory area. |
| US08694827B2 |
Job migration in response to loss or degradation of a semi-redundant component
A method of managing the workload in a computer system having one or more semi-redundant hardware components is provided. The method comprises detecting loss or degradation of the level of performance of one or more of the semi-redundant hardware components, identifying hardware components affected by the loss or degradation, migrating a critical job from an affected hardware component to an unaffected hardware component, and performing less-critical jobs on an affected hardware component. Loss or degradation of the semi-redundant component reduces the capacity of affected hardware components in the computer system without entirely disabling the computer system. Jobs identified as critical run on hardware components having the most capacity and reliability, while less-critical jobs use the remaining capacity of affected hardware components. Examples of semi-redundant hardware components include a memory module, CPU core, Ethernet port, power supply, fan, disk drive, and an input output port. |
| US08694825B2 |
Protecting storage fabrics from errant device causing single point of failure
A mechanism is provided for protecting storage fabrics from an errant device causing a single point of failure. The mechanism identities a source of the out-of-context traffic, isolates the TAG to prevent further catastrophe, and ensures that device isolation control operations are processed timely allowing device isolation and removing the source of the issue. Should device isolation not solve the issue, the mechanism allows the host to use a binary search method to isolate the device that may be hiding its true identity and sourcing possibly malicious traffic. |
| US08694824B2 |
System and method for upgradable remotely deployed intelligent communication devices
In one embodiment, an intelligent communications device for operating in a network is disclosed. The device includes a storage device having a plurality of partitions storing images for performing boot operations. The device also includes a detection module that is operative to detect a boot failure, and a first restoration module that is operative to restore an active image with a first backup image, in response to a detected boot failure from an active image. The device further includes a second restoration module that is operative to restore a second backup image in response to a detected boot failure after restoration from a first backup image. The device also includes a programmable processor that is programmed to cause execution of boot operations and functions performed by the detection module, first restoration module, and second restoration module. |
| US08694823B2 |
Querying and repairing data
Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to querying and repairing data. In aspects, a component may detect that data on storage has become corrupted. In response, the component may request data from one or more redundant copies of the data and may determine which of the redundant copies, if any, are not corrupted. If a non-corrupted copy is found, the component may send a request that the corrupted data be repaired and may identify the non-corrupted copy to use to repair the corrupted data. |
| US08694822B2 |
Disaster recovery in a networked computing environment
In general, embodiments of the present invention provide a DR solution for a networked computing environment such as a cloud computing environment. Specifically, a customer or the like can select a disaster recovery provider from a pool (at least one) of disaster recovery providers using a customer interface to a DR portal. Similarly, using the interface and DR portal, the customer can then submit a request for DR to be performed for a set (at least one) of applications. The customer will then also submit (via the interface and DR portal) DR information. This information can include, among other things, a set of application images, a set of application files, a set of recovery requirements, a designation of one or more specific (e.g., application) components for which DR is desired, dump file(s), database file(s), etc. Using the DR information, the DR provider will then generate and conduct a set of DR tests and provide the results to the customer via the DR portal and interface. In one embodiment, a temporary DR environment can be created (e.g., by the DR provider or the customer) in which the DR tests are conducted. |
| US08694820B2 |
Failure recovery method
The reliability is improved at a low cost even in a virtualized server environment. The number of spare servers is reduced for improving the reliability and for saving a licensing fee for software on the spare servers. A server system comprises a plurality of physical servers on which a plurality of virtual servers run, a single standby server, a module for detecting an active virtual server, and a module for switching the correspondence of boot disks of virtualization modules for controlling virtual servers to the physical servers. When a physical server fails, the boot disk of the associated virtualization module is connected to a spare server to automatically activate on the spare server those virtual servers which have been active upon occurrence of the failure. |
| US08694819B2 |
System and method for gradually adjusting a virtual interval timer counter value to compensate the divergence of a physical interval timer counter value and the virtual interval timer counter value
A system and corresponding method virtualizes a real-time clock in the presence of a time-disrupting event. The real-time clock is used with physical machines and includes a single time source within each of the physical machines. The system is implemented in one or more programmable devices, which may be hardware and/or software devices, or a combination of hardware and software devices. The physical machines include one or more virtual machines. The system includes an offset module that determines a time difference offset between a virtual interrupt timer counter (ITCV) associated with a virtual machine and a physical interrupt timer counter (ITCP) associated with a physical machine. The system also includes a virtual machine monitor that computes one or more first time adjustments based on the offset and applies the adjustments to eliminate at least a first part of the offset. |
| US08694811B2 |
Power management for digital devices
In a digital device, activity of (or load on) one or more processors, peripherals and memory buses are measured. A power management framework operated in the digital device bases power settings in the digital device on the measured loads, and accordingly issues power management commands to change power consumption states of one or more of the processors, peripherals and memory buses. Some user applications (termed power aware applications) in the digital device provide a number identifying their application type to the power management framework, which thereby determines the resources required by the application. The power management commands issued by the power management framework ensure provision of the corresponding resources to the application, while also targeting minimization of power consumption in the digital device. In an embodiment, the digital device corresponds to a mobile phone. |
| US08694806B2 |
Power transfer in an inline switch device
An apparatus and method for transferring power in an inline switch device are provided. The method comprises drawing power from an inline power source and transferring, by the powered device subsystem, a portion of the power that is not consumed by the powered device subsystem to one or more connected powered devices. The method further comprises determining a limit of current drawn by the powered device subsystem during transfer of power by the powered device subsystem to the one or more powered devices that results in the transfer of a desired amount of power to the one or more powered devices, and adjusting the limit for the current drawn by the powered device subsystem to the determined current limit. |
| US08694805B2 |
System and method for multiple PoE power supply management
A system and method for multiple power over Ethernet (PoE) power supply management. Power supply status signals indicative of an operating condition of a plurality of PoE power supplies are provided to a plurality of power sourcing equipment (PSE) controller chips. Pre-configured combination logic within each of the PSE controller chips converts an indicated operational state of the plurality of PoE power supplies into a powering decision for each of the Ethernet ports served by the PSE controller chip within one microsecond. |