| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08709620B2 |
Magnetic recording medium, information storage device, and method of manufacturing magnetic recording medium
A magnetic recording medium includes a magnetic recording layer. The magnetic recording layer includes a first magnetic layer formed as a pattern portion that is a data portion in a servo region, a second magnetic layer formed as a non-pattern portion that is magnetized to be antiparallel with a magnetization direction of the first magnetic layer and of which coercive force is lower than a coercive force of the first magnetic layer, and a nonmagnetic layer formed between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer. |
| US08709618B2 |
Magnetic storage apparatus
According to embodiments of the present invention, a shielded pole writer and a perpendicular magnetic recording medium suitable thereto are combined to provide high medium SNR and excellent OW characteristic simultaneously. A perpendicular magnetic recording medium of a magnetic storage apparatus mounting a shielded pole writer, including a perpendicular magnetic recording medium having a recording layer of a three layered structure is used. A first recording layer has a granular structure consisting of grain boundaries containing an oxide and columnar grains comprising a CoCrPt alloy, in which a second recording layer and a third recording layer formed thereabove comprise Co as a main ingredient, contain Cr and do not contain an oxide, and the Cr concentration in the second recording layer is lower than the Cr concentration in the third recording layer. |
| US08709617B2 |
Magnetic memory element, driving method for same, and nonvolatile storage device
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a magnetic memory element records information in a spin valve structure having a free layer, a pinning layer, and a nonmagnetic layer sandwiched therebetween. The magnetic memory element further has, on the free layer, a separate nonmagnetic layer and a magnetic change layer having magnetic characteristics which change according to temperature. Multiple cutouts, including one cutout with a different shape, are provided in a peripheral portion of the spin valve structure. A method of driving the magnetic memory element is characterized in that information is recorded by applying unipolar electric pulses. |
| US08709615B2 |
Heteroleptic iridium complexes as dopants
Novel phosphorescent heteroleptic iridium complexes with phenylpyridine and dibenzo-containing ligands are provided. Alkyl substitution at specific positions on the ligands gives rise to compounds with improved OLED properties, including saturated green emission. |
| US08709611B2 |
Multilayer films having reduced curling
Disclosed is a multilayer film. The multilayer film has the general structure of A/B/A/C or B/A/B/C, wherein A is a nucleated high density polyethylene (HDPE) layer, B is a single or multilayer structure, and C is a seal layer. Adding a nucleating agent to HDPE improves the water vapor barrier property of the HDPE layer and the multilayer film, but it also causes the multilayer film to curl in the conventional multilayer film structures. The invention provides a multilayer film, which includes at least one layer of nucleated HDPE, with reduced or eliminated curling while retaining high water vapor barrier. |
| US08709606B2 |
Glass or glass-ceramic pane reflecting infrared radiation
A temperature-resistant glass or glass-ceramic pane is provided. The pane includes a substrate and a tin-oxide layer comprising antimony deposited on the substrate. |
| US08709604B2 |
Barrier layers comprising Ni-inclusive ternary alloys, coated articles including barrier layers, and methods of making the same
Certain example embodiments relate to Ni-inclusive ternary alloy being provided as a barrier layer for protecting an IR reflecting layer comprising silver or the like. The provision of a barrier layer comprising nickel, chromium, and/or molybdenum and/or oxides thereof may improve corrosion resistance, as well as chemical and mechanical durability. In certain examples, more than one barrier layer may be used on at least one side of the layer comprising silver. In still further examples, a NixCryMoz-based layer may be used as the functional layer, rather than or in addition to as a barrier layer, in a coating. |
| US08709600B2 |
Polymer-encapsulated colorant nanoparticles
A polymer-encapsulated colorant nanoparticle includes a colorant nanoparticle core, and a polymer coating established on the colorant nanoparticle core. A negatively chargeable functional group is present on a surface of the polymer-encapsulated colorant nanoparticle. |
| US08709596B2 |
Pressure-sensitive adhesive composition having an improved release behavior
Adhesive tape comprising at least one layer of an acrylate-based pressure-sensitive adhesive and a liner having a catalyzed addition crosslinking silicone coating, the silicone coating being in direct contact with the pressure-sensitive adhesive and the pressure-sensitive adhesive comprising additives that are effective as catalyst poisons. |
| US08709594B2 |
Coated article and method for making the same
A coated article includes a substrate, a bonding layer formed on the substrate, an anti-corrosion layer formed on the bonding layer. The substrate is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. The bonding layer is a silicon layer. The anti-corrosion layer is a silicon nitride layer. The coated article has improved corrosion resistance. |
| US08709592B2 |
Sensor coating
A retro-reflective sensor coating arrangement comprises a base layer of luminescent sensor material and an outer layer of optical bodies, such a spheres. |
| US08709589B2 |
White polyester film and surface light source therewith
A white polyester film has a high level of whiteness, reflectivity, lightness, or thermal dimensional stability, and a surface light source that is produced with the white polyester film and has a high level of brightness characteristics. The white polyester film includes a white polyester layer (W layer) containing a polyester resin component (A) and a component (B) incompatible with the resin component (A) and having voids inside, wherein the incompatible component (B) is a cyclic-olefin resin (b) having a glass transition temperature of 110° C. or more, and the content Z of the cyclic-olefin resin (b) in the white polyester layer (W layer) is from 5% by weight to 50% by weight, based on the amount of the white polyester layer (W layer). The surface light source is produced therewith. |
| US08709586B2 |
Modified polyolefin resin for glass fiber treatment, surface-treated glass fiber, and fiber-reinforced polyolefin resin
An acid-modified polyolefin-based resin for glass fiber treatment having: (1) an amount of components extractable with boiling methyl ethyl ketone of 8 mass % or less; (2) a number average molecular weight (Mn), measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), of 6,000 to 48,000; and (3) an amount of an acid which has been added, measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, of 0.1 to 12 mass %. |
| US08709585B2 |
Polymeric structures comprising a siloxane
Hydroxyl polymer-containing compositions, especially hydroxyl polymer-containing compositions that can be processed into polymeric structures, especially polymeric structures in the form of fibers are provided. |
| US08709583B2 |
PVD coated tool
The invention concerns a cutting tool comprising a main body and a multi-layer coating applied thereto. To provide improved cutting tools which have increased resistance to comb cracking, tribochemical wear and cratering caused thereby the main body comprises a hard metal which includes 5 to 8% by weight of Co, 0 to 2% by weight of TaC, 0 to 1% by weight of NbC and 89 to 95% by weight of WC with a mean grain size of 1 to 5 μm, and the coating has a first layer of TiAlN having a layer thickness of 1 to 5 μm, and a second layer of aluminum oxide having a layer thickness of 1 to 4 μm, wherein the coating further additionally includes on the second layer of aluminum oxide n alternately mutually superposedly applied layers of TiAlN and layers of aluminum oxide respectively having a layer thickness of 0.1 to 0.5 μm, wherein n relates to each individual layer and is an even number of 0 to 10, and wherein the total layer thickness of the coating is 2 to 16 μm and the coating is produced in the PVD process. |
| US08709579B2 |
Stretchable elastic laminate having increased CD elongation zones and method of production
A stretchable elastic laminate including at least one nonwoven fabric layer, and at least one elastomeric material extruded as a melt onto a major surface of the nonwoven fabric to form an elastic layer bonded to the surface of the nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric layer has first and second bonding zones formed on the surface thereof, which have first and second bonding strengths. The elastic layer is bonded to the surface of the nonwoven fabric such that the elastic layer forms a stronger bond with the first bonding zone on the surface of the nonwoven than the bond formed between the elastic layer and the second bonding zone on the surface of the nonwoven. The lightly bonded areas of the elastic laminate provide increased elongation in the cross direction and improved recovery after stretch, while the more strongly bonded areas provide adhesive strength. Also disclosed is a method of forming a stretchable laminate having increased elongation and improved recovery after stretch. |
| US08709578B2 |
Bamboo scrimber and manufacturing method thereof
A bamboo scrimber includes a plurality of pressure-pressed bamboo strips impregnated with an adhesive and modified through heat-treatment. Each of the bamboo strips is formed with a plurality of slots penetrating through the bamboo strip substantially in a direction of thickness defined by the bamboo strip. A substantially longitudinal direction defined by the slots is substantially consistent with a substantially longitudinal direction defined by fibers of the bamboo strip. |
| US08709573B2 |
Polymer bonded fibrous coating on dipped rubber articles skin contacting external surface
A latex glove article with a fibrous coating bonded to the skin-contacting surface. Long length soft moisture absorbing fibers are attached to latex layer of a glove with a thin layer of polymeric latex adhesive forming a fibrous lining. The long length fibers extend or project from the polymeric latex adhesive coating. The fibers penetrate the polymeric latex adhesive layer at one end or both end of the fiber to a depth of about 60% to about 100% of the adhesive thickness, leaving a substantial portion of the fiber available for soft contact with skin and sweat absorption. Due to the substantial thickness of the fibrous lining, which is between about 4 and about 100 times the thickness of the thin layer of polymeric latex adhesive, an air gap is created between skin and the impervious latex layer establishing continual evaporation of absorbed sweat and evaporative cooling. |
| US08709570B2 |
Near-field optical disk having surface plasmon amplification by stimulated emission of radiation
A near-field optical disk having surface plasmon amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (SPASER) is provided. The near-field optical disk having SPASER includes a transparent substrate, a first transparent dielectric thin film layer formed on the transparent substrate, a SPASER thin film layer formed on the first transparent dielectric thin film layer, a second transparent dielectric thin film layer formed on the SPASER thin film layer, a recording thin film layer formed on the second transparent dielectric thin film layer, and a third transparent dielectric thin film layer formed on the recording thin film layer. |
| US08709561B2 |
Polypropylene bottles
A polypropylene composition having a melt flow rate MFR2 (230° C.) measured according to according to ISO 1133 of at least 2.0 g/10 min, said polypropylene composition comprises a propylene copolymer (C-PP) and a high melt strength polypropylene (HMS-PP), wherein the propylene copolymer (C-PP) (a) has a comonomer content of equal or below 7.0 wt.-%, the comonmers are ethylene and/or at least one C4 to C12 α-olefin, and (b) fulfills the equation (I) R+4.96×C≦95.66 wherein R is the randomness [%] measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and C is the comonomer content [wt.-%] measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). |
| US08709560B2 |
Polymeric compositions including their uses and methods of production
Polymeric compositions and methods of making and using such compositions are provided. The compositions incorporate a first polymeric component that is at least one high density polyethylene and a second polymeric component that is at least one polymer including propylene-derived units having a heat of fusion of less than 75 J/g wherein the propylene-derived units have an isotactic triad fraction of about 65% to about 99%. The polymeric compositions are found to have desirable environmental stress crack resistance properties and impact resistance properties. The polymeric compositions are useful in a variety of applications such as molded containers and extruded pipes. |
| US08709557B2 |
Support core for cold shrink tube
Provided is an article comprising a helically wound ribbon forming a tubular support core, the ribbon having first and second edges wherein adjacent first and second edges comprise one or more bonds along the length of the tubular support core; wherein the strength of the one or more bonds varies along the length of the tubular support core. |
| US08709556B2 |
Heat transfer label for decorating a metal container
A heat transfer label assembly includes a heat transfer label including ink and adhesive, and a releasable support joined to the heat transfer label. The adhesive may include at least one of a polyketone resin and a polyamide resin. The heat transfer label may be used to decorate a metal article. |
| US08709554B2 |
Printable and printed articles
Printable articles including a substrate, an image receiving layer over the substrate, and a barrier layer between the substrate and the image receiving layer are useful in the production of fine art reproductions. The image receiving layer comprises at least one pigment and two or more binders, wherein at least one of the two or more binders has a glass transition temperature (Tg) at least 20° C. less than a Tg of at least one other of the two or more binders. Printed articles including a printable article with marking material contained in the image receiving layer may exhibit a textured cracking pattern after application and drying of the marking material or a liquid laminate. |
| US08709553B2 |
Patterned birefringent product
A product comprising a patterned optically anisotropic layer having two or more regions of different birefringence in the form of a pattern, which further comprises a semi-transmissive-half-reflective layer having a transmittance of 30% or higher and a reflectance of 30% or higher is provided. The product permits visualization of a latent image in the product through a polarizing plate as well as visualization of the information on the side opposite to the side to be viewed from. |
| US08709552B2 |
Resin composition and display device using the same
The resin composition of the present invention is a resin composition characterized by including (a) a polyimide, a polybenzoxazole, a polyimide precursor or a polybenzoxazole precursor, (b) 1,5-dihydroxynaphthalene, 1,6-dihydroxynaphthalene, 1,7-dihydroxynaphthalene, or 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene, and (c) a thermal cross-linking agent having a specific structure. By the use of the resin composition of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the transmittance in the visible region of a cured film while maintaining the transmittance of a resin film before curing. |
| US08709550B2 |
Method for producing coated steel sheet
In a process for manufacturing a coated steel sheet such as a coated electromagnetic steel sheet using a water-based coating liquid containing an organic resin, to perform steps subsequent to an annealing step continuously at high speed without causing appearance defects such as coating unevenness; to provide an electromagnetic steel sheet having an insulating film thereon, in which properties of the film are satisfactory, superior weldability and punchability can be obtained without deteriorating the space factor, and the satisfactory film properties can be maintained even if the electromagnetic steel sheet having the insulating film thereon is temper-rolled. A coating liquid is applied onto an untreated steel sheet. The applied liquid is heated on the side close to the steel sheet in such a manner that the time elapsed until the steel sheet temperature is increased to 100° C. after the application is completed is 10 seconds or less, thereby drying the coating liquid. The steel sheet temperature is further increased to a predetermined temperature, thereby forming a coating film. When insulating films for electromagnetic steel sheets are formed, the coating liquid preferably further contains a water based inorganic component. |
| US08709547B2 |
Method for using a super-slippery thin layer characterized by the method for making same
The invention relates to the use of a super-slippery thin-layer film or coating for enhancing the lubrication capacity of a part to be subjected to great friction and wear. The film of the invention for improving the lubrication capacity of parts to be subjected to important friction and wear includes at least: a layer (3) of a hard material selected from titanium nitride (TiN), chromium nitride (CrN), titanium carbide (TiC), chromium carbide (CrC), tungsten carbide (W2C) and tungsten carbide-carbon composites (WC/C), alumina (AI2O3), molybdenum sulphide (MoS2), and materials of the hydrogenated amorphous carbon type (a: CH), the layer including on one surface thereof a series of dips and protrusions; and a layer (4) of an oleophilic material. The invention can particularly be used in the field of mechanics. |
| US08709542B2 |
Method for preparing an organic film at the surface of solid support under non-electrochemical conditions, solid support thus obtained and preparation kit
This invention relates to a method for preparing an organic film at the surface of a solid support, with a step of contacting said surface with a liquid solution including (i) at least one protic solvent, (ii) at least one adhesion primer, under non-electrochemical conditions, and allowing the formation of radical entities based on the adhesion primer. The liquid solution can also include (iii) at least one monomer different from the adhesion primer and radically polymerizable. This invention also relates to a non-electrically-conductive solid support on which an organic film according to said method is grafted, and a kit for preparing an essentially polymeric organic film at the surface of a solid support. |
| US08709540B2 |
Light-emitting device, film-forming method and manufacturing apparatus thereof, and cleaning method of the manufacturing apparatus
This invention provides a new film forming method in which, on the occasion that pressure is decreased by pressure decreasing means which was connected to a film forming chamber, and a film is formed by evaporating an organic compound material from a deposition source in the film forming chamber, minute amounts of gas (silane series gas) which comprises smaller particles than particles of the organic compound material, i.e., a material with a smaller atomic radius are flowed, and the material with a small atomic radius is made to be included in an organic compound film. |
| US08709533B2 |
Technique for manufacturing bit patterned media
A technique for manufacturing hit pattern media is disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the technique may be realized as a method for manufacturing bit pattern media. The method may comprise forming an intermediate layer comprising a modified region and a first region adjacent to one another, where the modified region and the first region may have at least one different property; depositing magnetic species on the first region of the intermediate layer to form an active region; and depositing non-ferromagnetic species on the modified region of the intermediate layer to form a separator. |
| US08709532B2 |
Magnetic disk and manufacturing method thereof
In a magnetic disk having a magnetic layer, a protection layer, and a lubrication layer formed on a substrate in this order, a surface free energy γS of a surface of the magnetic disk derived by an extended Fowkes equation is greater than 0 and no greater than 24 mN/m. γSd (dispersion force component of surface free energy) forming the surface free energy γS is greater than 0 and no greater than 17 mN/m, γSp (dipole component of surface free energy) forming the surface free energy γS is greater than 0 and no greater than 1 mN/m, and γSh (hydrogen bonding force component of surface free energy) forming the surface free energy γS is greater than 0 and no greater than 6 mN/m. |
| US08709527B2 |
Granulated sweetening composition
A granulated sweetening composition, includes: a poorly soluble polyol with a water solubility of less than 60 g/100 g of solution at 20° C., a hydrogenated dextrin with a molecular weight between 3000 and 5000 daltons, maltitol. A process for preparing such a composition is also disclosed. |
| US08709526B2 |
Use of a high-oleic and high-tocol diet in combination with a non-tocol antioxidant for improving animal meat quality
A novel method for improving the meat quality of an animal is provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises feeding the animal a diet supplemented with oleic acid and tocols and subsequently formulating the meat with a non-tocol antioxidant such as rosemary extract. The source of the oleic acid and/or tocols may be transgenic corn that employs the FAD-2 gene as a silencing agent for a high-oleic phenotype and/or expresses the HGGT gene for a high-tocotrienol phenotype. The method improves the quality of meat from both non-ruminants and ruminants. |
| US08709518B2 |
Fluid intake and content management system
A system for managing the fluid intake of a person is disclosed. The system consists of multiple containers of various volumes, a common lid configured to incorporate a flow control valve, multiple flow control valves having varying flow rates, a date indicator ring incorporated circumferentially on said containers, a content indicator disposed on said lid, a chiller insert, and an optional slip on handle. The user selects a container based on the fluid needs of a person and a flow control valve based on the drinking ability of the person. The user fills the container with a drinkable fluid, and indicates the nature of the contents with the content indicator and the date of filling with the date indicator ring. The chiller insert allows the user to cool the contents without the possibility of dilution as with standard ice cubes. |
| US08709517B2 |
Novelty snacks and method of manufacture of same
A method for manufacturing a snack food with from a non-cohesive homogeneous blend of ingredients using an ultrasonic horn and an anvil to form an agglomerated, cohesive and portable snack without the use of additives, including but not limited to preservatives, plasticizers, binders and fluidizers. |
| US08709515B1 |
Nutritional supplement method
The method comprises steps of: providing a nutraceutical including, in combination, 1.13 to 3 mg lutein and 18.8 to 51.2 mg omega fatty acids and 1.9 to 5.2 mg grape seed extract and 1.9 to 5.2 mg alpha lipoic acid; determining the weight of each dose of the components in the combination based upon an amount per kg body weight of the animal patients; and administering 1 dose of nutraceutical per day to animals suffering from ocular health issues including any degenerative retinal disease and diabetic cataracts and prior to and following cataract surgery for the diminishment and prevention of secondary cataracts. |
| US08709510B2 |
Composition for enhancing memory and mitigating neurodegeneration and method thereof
The present invention provides a composition for enhancing memory and mitigating neurodegeneration comprising an effective amount of a Ludwigia octovalvis extract. Also disclosed is a method thereof for enhancing memory and mitigating neurodegeneration comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a Ludwigia octovalvis extract. The composition and method of the present invention is useful in treating Alzheimer's disease. |
| US08709509B2 |
Herbal composition for the treatment of wound healing, a regenerative medicine
The present invention discloses a novel, synergistic, effective herbal composition as a regenerative medicine comprising combination therapeutically effective amounts of extracts obtained from Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza glabara, Hamiltonia suaveolens, Typha angustifolia and Azadirachta indica, along with optionally comprising Pig fat in Sesamum indicum (Til) oil as a base, useful for the treatment of wound healing. The present invention also discloses a process for preparation of said herbal composition. |
| US08709492B2 |
Process for producing a plasma protein-containing medicament with reduced concentration of citrate and metals
There is disclosed a method of preparing a plasma-protein-containing medicament from citrated plasma or from a citrate-containing plasma fraction, the medicament being substantially free from undesired metals, which method comprises the following steps: exchanging the citrate and optionally citrate-bound metals in a plasma-protein-containing solution for a water-soluble mono- or dicarboxylate or for an organic mono- or dicarboxylic acid under non-precipitating conditions, recovering the plasma protein or the plasma proteins, and finishing the medicament. |
| US08709487B1 |
Nanoparticle entrapment of materials
A water-based and surfactant-free microwave synthesis of polymer nanoparticles includes the entrapment of diisopropyl fluorophosphatase (DFPase) within poly(4-vinylpyridine) (PVP) nanoparticles. The resulting nanoparticles are approximately 80-100 nm in diameter and reactive activity of DFPase is maintained after encapsulation. |
| US08709485B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions of entacapone, levodopa and carbidopa with improved bioavailability
The present invention relates to single oral dose pharmaceutical compositions comprising a combination of entacapone, levodopa and carbidopa, or salts thereof along with one or more sugar alcohols, wherein the entacapone is co-micronized with one or more sugar alcohols. The composition of the invention exhibits bioequivalence to commercially available entacapone, levodopa and carbidopa combination formulation marketed under the trade name Stalevo200®. The invention also relates to processes for making such compositions. |
| US08709482B2 |
Stabilised prostaglandin composition
A pharmaceutical delivery device, such as a suppository or pessary, comprises a synthetic prostaglandin PGE1 analogue (e.g. misoprostol) in a solid polyurethane hydrogel. |
| US08709481B2 |
System for controlled release of an active principle and method for preparation
A system for controlled release of an active principle, includes at least (a) a degradable polymer matrix which produces acid compounds and (b) at least one acid-sensitive complex of an active principle having at least one electrostatic charge and a complexing polyelectrolyte partner of opposite charge which complexes with the active principle. A method for preparation of such a system is described. The release of the active principle (7P) is prolonged over 18 days (ternary system PMLA/7P/PLAGA) in comparison to binary systems (7P/PLAGA) and (PMLA/7P). |
| US08709480B2 |
Adhering composition and method of applying the same
A method of in-situ adhering including providing pre-gel including phenolic compound and water miscible polymers like carbohydrates, salts of anionic polysaccharide, spreading layer of pre-gel onto a surface, adding solid support, comprising cross linking agents capable of interacting with the polymer, to pre-gel, and allowing pre-gel to cure and adhere onto surface. |
| US08709474B2 |
Liposomes with improved drug retention for treatment of cancer
The present invention relates to the use of copper ions to achieve enhanced retention of a therapeutic agent within a liposome. The invention may be employed to more effectively deliver a liposomally encapsulated therapeutic agent to a target site in vitro and in vivo for anti-cancer or other therapy. The liposome may comprise an interior buffer solution containing the therapeutic agent, the solution having a pH less than 6.5 and most preferably approximating pH 3.5. At least some of the copper ions are retained within the interior solution. In a particular embodiment the therapeutic agent may be a chemotherapeutic drug, such as irinotecan. The invention may also comprise an ionophore to facilitate loading of drug into the liposome. In one particular embodiment the combination of the ionophore A23187 and encapsulated divalent copper (Cu2+) resulted in an irinotecan formulation that exhibited surprisingly improved drug retention attributes. |
| US08709472B1 |
Bioactive agent-loaded heart-targeting nanoparticles
Compositions that contain bioactive agent-loaded nanoparticles with heart targeting capabilities and methods of using the same for the treatment of disease are disclosed. |
| US08709471B2 |
Medicament delivery device and a method of medicament delivery
A medicament delivery device and method of delivering a medicament is provided wherein the device is insertable into the uterine myometrium for the delivery of medicaments to the pelvic area and organs thereof, for example, the bladder, peritoneum, the vulva, vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus, and then to the bloodstream. |
| US08709470B2 |
Chitosan hydrogel derivatives as a coating agent with broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities
The present invention relates to water soluble quaternized chitosan derivatives which form hydrogel matrix with broad antimicrobial properties for the protection and coating of medical device. Hydrogel is attractive as an antimicrobial coating since its hydrophilicity intrinsically prevents the reversible nonspecific attachment of microbes.In order to achieve hydrogel formation, quaternized chitosan can be grafted with polymerizable groups, especially photocrosslinkable groups, such as methacrylates, PEG derivatives and be converted into hydrogels through a thermal or UV polymerization process. Hydrogels are hydrated cross-linked polymeric systems that contain water in an equilibrium state forming cushion water shield. The present invention is widely used in many medical devices. This invention describes the formation of novel hydrogels based on quaternized ammonium chitosan derivatives which has been grafted with photocrosslinkable groups, hence providing hydrogels as antimicrobial water shield coating agent. |
| US08709465B2 |
Diazeniumdiolated phosphorylcholine polymers for nitric oxide release
The present disclosure in a broad aspect provides for diazeniumdiolated phosphorylcholine polymers and associated methods for achieving nitric oxide release. The present polymers have superior biocompatibility and are useful for coating or fabricating medical devices such as a vascular stent. |
| US08709462B2 |
Termite tubing preventative for non-wood materials
The present invention relates to materials and methods for protecting man-made structures made with non-wood materials from termite damage through the application of borates to the surface of non-wood materials. In an embodiment the invention regards a method for preventing termite tunneling and tubing on non-wood and/or non-cellulosic materials by treating non-wood building components comprising the steps of applying a composition to the surfaces of a non-wood building component, wherein the composition comprises a borate component. In another embodiment the invention regards a method for preventing termite damage to man-made structures comprising the steps of mixing borates with a solvent to form a borate solution, obtaining a non-wood building component, coating the non-wood building component with the borate solution, and incorporating the coated non-wood building component into a man-made structure. The invention also regards a non-wood building component comprising a non-wood substrate, and a coating comprising borates, wherein the coating is disposed on the surfaces of the non-wood substrate. |
| US08709455B2 |
Sericin cationic nanoparticles for application in products for hair and dyed hair
The objective of this patent application is the application/use of sericin nanoparticles m cosmetic formulas for hair care, as an agent that bestows/gives gloss and softness and promotes maintenance of coloration in dyed hair. |
| US08709452B2 |
Synthetic bone grafts
The disclosure provides bone-mimetic mineral/polymer composite materials useful for formation of artificial bone grafts and for bone tissue engineering. The disclosure provides a hydrogels, cryogels and macroporous compositions modified with varying lengths of anionic pendant side chains (CH2═CHCONH(CH2)nCOOH, where n=1 to 12). |
| US08709449B2 |
Methods and compositions for improving photodynamic therapy through administration of lipids
The present invention provides methods and compositions for increasing the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (“PDT”) and for reducing the duration of skin phototoxicity associated with PDT treatment. The disclosed methods generally include the administration of a lipid composition before, during, or after the administration of photosensitizers used in the PDT treatment protocol. The lipids are preferably phospholipids. It was discovered that the disclosed methods resulted in a more rapid clearance of photosensitizers from the skin and other tissue of patients, which results in a shorter period of skin phototoxicity after PDT treatment. The present invention also provides a composition which is preferably comprised of non-polar photosensitizers and phospholipids. |
| US08709448B2 |
Anti-infective agents and uses thereof
The present invention is concerned with novel immunostimulant microparticle compositions and their use as anti-infective agents in the treatment of bacterial and viral infections. |
| US08709446B2 |
HYR1 as a target for active and passive immunization against Candida
The invention features HYR1 as a vaccine target and as a prophylactic strategy for combating disseminated candidiasis. |
| US08709444B2 |
Live-attenuated compositions for bacterial infections
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for disease treatment and prevention through administration of a live attenuated composition. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infection by administration of a live attenuated compositions lacking O-antigen ligase activity. |
| US08709442B2 |
Recombinant negative strand virus RNA expression systems and vaccines
The present invention relates to recombinant RNA virus templates derived from and applicable to negative strand naturally non-segmented viruses, including the families Bornaviridae, Filoviridae, and Paramyxoviridae, and methods for generating such recombinant RNA virus templates, wherein the templates are generated from two or more recombinant RNA molecules. The invention relates to the use of segmented recombinant RNA virus templates for naturally non-segmented RNA viruses to express heterologous gene products in appropriate host cell systems and/or to construct recombinant viruses taken from that family and that express, package, and/or present the heterologous gene product. The invention includes the expression products and recombinant and chimeric viruses thus prepared and vaccine and therapeutic formulations comprising the recombinant RNA viruses. |
| US08709441B2 |
TC-83-derived alphavirus vectors, particles and methods
The present disclosure provides TC-83 VEE-derived replicons, alphaviral replicon particles and immunogenic compositions containing TC-83 alphaviral replicon particles which direct the expression of at least one antigen when introduced into a suitable host cell. The TC-83 VEE-derived ARPs described herein are improved in that they are subject to a lower vector-specific immune response than prior art ARPs. |
| US08709440B2 |
Agent for expelling parasites in humans, animals or birds
This invention relates to an agent which may be used to expel parasites from humans, mammals or birds. The agent of the invention may a vegetable product, Ferula Assafoetida, which is very effective in expelling parasites. |
| US08709438B2 |
Vaccine composition against Streptococcus pyogenes
The present invention relates to a vaccine composition against Streptococcus pyogenes infection comprising an amino acid sequence having C-terminal fragment of streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin B, and a pharmaceutical acceptable adjuvant. |
| US08709434B2 |
Compositions for inhibiting NADPH oxidase activity
Phycobilins are disclosed to have prodrug activity as inhibitors of NADPH oxidase activity and are disclosed to be useful in the prophylaxis and/or treatment of medical conditions associated with or linked to an NADPH oxidase activity. Compositions containing phycobilins are described which facilitate the administration of phycobilins. |
| US08709428B2 |
Antibodies to Clostridium difficile toxins
The present invention provides an antibody composition comprising ovine antibodies, for use in the prevention or treatment of C. difficile infection wherein the antibodies bind to a C. difficile toxin. |
| US08709425B2 |
Antibodies to non-functional P2X7 receptor
The present invention provides antibodies that specifically bind to P2X7 receptors and distinguish between function and non-functional P2X7 receptors, pharmaceutical compositions and kits containing the antibodies, and methods of using the antibodies for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of disease conditions. |
| US08709421B2 |
Combination of the application of antibodies for immunostimulation together with glucocorticoids
The present invention relates to methods for reducing or eliminating the non-specific release of a cytokine associated with a disease comprising administering at least one glucocorticoid and an immunostimulating antibody. Additionally, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition that contains at least one immunostimulating antibody and at least one glucocorticoid. |
| US08709411B2 |
Combination therapy to enhance NK cell mediated cytotoxicity
The function of natural killer (NK) cells is regulated by inhibitory and activating signals delivered by cell surface receptors, 1-7F9 is a fully human monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against KIR2DL1 and KIR2DL2/3 receptors that block its interaction with its HLA-C ligands breaking NK cell tolerance to autologous tumor cells. Lenalidomide has been shown to increase NK cell cytotoxicity in vitro. The combination of lenalidomide and 1-7F9 enhanced NK cell mediated cytotoxicity against U266 cells beyond that observed with each agent alone. Lenalidomide also increased the expression of NKG2D, DNAM-I and TRAIL ligands including: MICA, ULB P2, CD1 12 and DR 4 on U266 cells. In in vitro cytotoxicity assays, lenalidomide enhanced the susceptibility of myeloma cell lines to NK cell. The NK cell signaling pathways was also explored after lenalidomide treatment and the results show that lenalidomide may upregulate the phospho-SHIP1 (Tyr1020) and has no effect on phosphop44/42 (ERK 1/2) (Thr202/Tyr204) in NK cells. These results provide pre-clinical rationale for clinical investigation of 1-7F9 anti-KIR mAb and lenalidomide in MM. |
| US08709408B2 |
Dose escalation enzyme replacement therapy for treating acid sphingomyelinase deficiency
The invention relates to dose escalation enzyme replacement therapy using acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) for the treatment of human subjects having acid sphingomyelinase deficiency (ASMD), and, in particular, patients with non-neurological manifestations of Niemann-Pick Disease (NPD), and in certain embodiments, NPD type B. |
| US08709407B2 |
Engineered enzymes with methionine-gamma-lyase enzymes and pharmacological preparations thereof
Methods and composition related to the engineering of a novel protein with methionine-γ-lyase enzyme activity are described. For example, in certain aspects there may be disclosed a modified cystathionine-γ-lyase (CGL) comprising one or more amino acid substitutions and capable of degrading methionine. Furthermore, certain aspects of the invention provide compositions and methods for the treatment of cancer with methionine depletion using the disclosed proteins or nucleic acids. |
| US08709403B2 |
Compositions and methods of vascular injury repair
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a chemotactic hematopoietic stem cell product comprising an enriched population of CD34+ cells containing a subpopulation of CD34+/CXCR-4+ cells having CXCR-4-mediated chemotactic activity, methods of preparing these compositions and use of these compositions to treat or repair vascular injury, including infarcted myocardium. |
| US08709402B2 |
Amnion-derived cells, methods of making and uses thereof
The invention is directed to substantially purified amnion-derived cell populations, compositions comprising the substantially purified amnion-derived cell populations, and to methods of creating such substantially purified amnion-derived cell populations, as well as methods of use. The invention is further directed to antibodies, in particular, monoclonal antibodies, that bind to amnion-derived cells or, alternatively, to one or more amnion-derived cell surface protein markers. The invention is further directed to methods for producing the antibodies, methods for using the antibodies, and kits comprising the antibodies. |
| US08709400B2 |
Inducement of organogenetic tolerance for pancreatic xenotransplant
Provided herein is an approach to establish organogenetic tolerance via prior transplantation of pig embryonic pancreas, thereby enabling subsequent implantation of porcine islets in a subject without the need for immune-suppression. In one aspect of the invention, porcine pancreatic primordia are implanted into a mammalian subject, and after a period of time sufficient to induce tolerance, porcine islet cells are implanted in the subject. |
| US08709391B2 |
Family of pain producing substances and methods to produce novel analgesic drugs
A method may include treating pain, shock, and/or inflammatory conditions in a subject. A method may include using a therapeutically effective amount of an antibody, a lipoxygenase inhibitor, a cytochrome P-450 enzyme inhibitor, and/or an antioxidant configurable to at least partially treat pain, shock, and/or inflammatory conditions in a subject. A method of treating pain, shock, and/or inflammatory conditions in a subject may include inactivating or preventing at least one linoleic acid metabolite to treat certain conditions (e.g., pain, shock, and/or inflammation). |
| US08709388B2 |
Cosmetic composition based on a supramolecular polymer and a hyperbranched functional polymer
The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition and method for making up and/or enhancing the appearance of a keratinous substrate, comprising at least one supramolecular polymer, at least one detackifying ingredient which is a hyperbranched functional polymer and at least one fatty phase ingredient(s). The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain at least one wax and at least one colorant. |
| US08709387B2 |
Therapeutic vitamin D sun-protecting formulations and methods for their use
The present invention concerns topical sun-protecting formulations including therapeutically effective amounts of Vitamin D, including formulations that provide Vitamin D in bioavailable amounts that correspond to decreased natural Vitamin D production resulting from the sun-blocking effects of the formulations and formulations for the prevention and treatment of disorders and disease states associated with vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D insufficiency. |
| US08709384B2 |
Compositions and methods using microspheres and non-ionic contrast agents
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for treating diseases and disorders including cancer and various other angiogenic-dependent diseases, vascular malfunctions, arteriovenous malformations (AVM), hemorrhagic processes and treatment of pain, in particular tumor-related pain by drug delivery and/or therapeutic embolization using microspheres. More particularly the invention relates to microspheres containing non-ionic contrast agents, to compositions comprising these microspheres, as well as methods for preparing and using such compositions for embolization therapy. The invention further relates to compositions and methods using detectable microspheres for targeted drug delivery, irrespective of whether embolization is also needed. |
| US08709383B2 |
Persistent luminescence nanoparticles used in the form of a diagnosis agent for in vivo optical imaging
The invention relates to using persistent luminescence nanoparticles, functionalised if necessary, in the form of an diagnosis agent for an in vivo optical imaging. Said nanoparticles are preferably consist of a compound selected from a group comprising (1) silicates, aluminates, aluminosilicates, germanates, titanates, oxysulphides, phosphates and vanadates, wherein said compounds contain at least one type of metal oxide, (2) the sulphides comprise at least one metal ion selected from zinc, strontium and calcium, and (3) metal oxides, wherein said compounds is doped with at least one rare earth ion, and possibly with at least one transition metal ion. In a preferred embodiment, the diagnosis agent is used for an organism vascularization imaging. A method and kit for detecting or quantifying in vitro a substance of biological or chemical interest in a sample by using said pre-functionalised nanoparticles are also disclosed. |
| US08709379B2 |
Liposomal nanoparticles and other formulations of fenretinide for use in therapy and drug delivery
Formulations of neutral retinoids, in particular fenretinide (HPR) in the form of lipid nanoparticles, solid dispersions and emulsions are disclosed. These compositions are used to treat diseases that are amenable to treatment by HPR, such as neoplastic diseases by achieving higher and more prolonged concentrations of HPR in the subject. The key steps for preparing lipid nanovesicles of HPR include mixing and sonication, sterile filtration, without or without lyophilization for long-term stable storage, and employ processes and materials that are scalable from the laboratory to the manufacturing level. The formulation are suitable for injection into human or animal patients without causing allergic or hypersensitivity responses by avoiding chemical surfactants and animal sources of phospholipids in their manufacture. |
| US08709378B2 |
Catalyst and process of hydrocarbon feedstock reformation to hydrogen and carbon monoxide
A catalytic composition is particularly well suited for hydrocarbon conversion to synthesis gas at a temperature of between 800 and 1000° Celsius. The catalytic composition includes a noble metal cluster having an X-Y-Z axial mean linear dimension of between 2 and 15 Angstroms and a super cage structure surrounding the noble metal cluster. The super cage structure stabilizes the noble metal cluster against aggregation at temperatures of 1000° Celsius. A process for reforming hydrocarbon feedstock to hydrogen and carbon monoxide is also provided that conversion to greater than 80% of theoretical yield. |
| US08709376B2 |
Process for recovering and recycling an acid catalyst
Disclosed is a process for the extractive recovery of an acid catalyst from an aqueous mixture of glycolic acid with an extraction solvent comprising a tertiary amine or an onium carboxylate compound, a modifier, and a diluent. The acid catalyst, which can comprise strong acids such as sulfuric acid, alkyl sulfonic acids, and fluoroalkyl sulfonic acids, can be recovered by back extraction with aqueous formaldehyde and recycled to a process for the preparation of glycolic acid by the acid-catalyzed carbonylation of formaldehyde. |
| US08709373B2 |
Strongly bound carbon nanotube arrays directly grown on substrates and methods for production thereof
The present disclosure describes carbon nanotube arrays having carbon nanotubes grown directly on a substrate and methods for making such carbon nanotube arrays. In various embodiments, the carbon nanotubes may be covalently bonded to the substrate by nanotube carbon-substrate covalent bonds. The present carbon nanotube arrays may be grown on substrates that are not typically conducive to carbon nanotube growth by conventional carbon nanotube growth methods. For example, the carbon nanotube arrays of the present disclosure may be grown on carbon substrates including carbon foil, carbon fibers and diamond. Methods for growing carbon nanotubes include a) providing a substrate, b) depositing a catalyst layer on the substrate, c) depositing an insulating layer on the catalyst layer, and d) growing carbon nanotubes on the substrate. Various uses for the carbon nanotube arrays are contemplated herein including, for example, electronic device and polymer composite applications. |
| US08709370B2 |
Method and system for producing fluoride gas and fluorine-doped glass or ceramics
The present invention relates generally to production of a fluoride gas and equivalents thereof, and fluorine-doped sodium silicate glass, glass ceramics, vitro ceramics and equivalents thereof. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a salt and an oxide in a reactor, heating the reactor to produce a vapor and the vitro ceramic and removing the vapor. |
| US08709366B2 |
Configurations and methods for effluent gas treatment
Sulfur oxides are removed from an oxygen-containing acid gas in configurations and methods in which oxygen is catalytically removed using hydrogen sulfide, and in which the sulfur oxides react with the hydrogen sulfide to form elemental sulfur. A first portion of the remaining sulfurous compounds is reduced to form the hydrogen sulfide for oxygen removal, while a second portion of the sulfurous compounds is further converted to elemental sulfur using a Claus reaction or catalytic direct reduction reaction. |
| US08709363B2 |
Cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction
A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber. |
| US08709357B2 |
Micro-fluidic device
Embodiments described herein provide micro-fluidic systems and devices for use in performing various diagnostic and analytical tests. According to one embodiment, the micro-fluidic device includes a sample chamber for receiving a sample, and a reaction chamber for performing a chemical reaction. A bubble jet pump is structured on the device to control delivery of a fluid from the sample chamber to the reaction chamber. The pump is fluidically coupled to one or more chambers of the device using a fluidic channel such as a capillary. A valve may be coupled to one or more chambers to control flow into and out of those chambers. Also, a sensor may be positioned in one or more of the chambers, such as the reactant chamber, for sensing a property of the fluid within the chamber as well as the presence of a chemical within the chamber. |
| US08709355B2 |
Microfluidic system incorporating a metal impregnated nanoporous material in a microfluidic pathway thereof
The methods, systems 400 and apparatus disclosed herein concern metal 150 impregnated porous substrates 110, 210. Certain embodiments of the invention concern methods for producing metal-coated porous silicon substrates 110, 210 that exhibit greatly improved uniformity and depth of penetration of metal 150 deposition. The increased uniformity and depth allow improved and more reproducible Raman detection of analytes. In exemplary embodiments of the invention, the methods may comprise oxidation of porous silicon 110, immersion in a metal salt solution 130, drying and thermal decomposition of the metal salt 140 to form a metal deposit 150. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the methods may comprise microfluidic impregnation of porous silicon substrates 210 with one or more metal salt solutions 130. Other embodiments of the invention concern apparatus and/or systems 400 for Raman detection of analytes, comprising metal-coated porous silicon substrates 110, 210 prepared by the disclosed methods. |
| US08709353B2 |
Device and method for producing a fluidic connection between cavities
A device, particularly a microfluidic system, is proposed, in which two cavities are arranged spatially close to one another and are sealed off from one another by a common cover. A fluidic connection can be produced between the cavities by movement of a pin-shaped body towards the cover. In this way it is possible to release a reagent in controlled manner without having to put it under pressure. |
| US08709350B2 |
Compact ion accelerator source
An ion source includes a conductive substrate, the substrate including a plurality of conductive nanostructures with free-standing tips formed on the substrate. A conductive catalytic coating is formed on the nanostructures and substrate for dissociation of a molecular species into an atomic species, the molecular species being brought in contact with the catalytic coating. A target electrode placed apart from the substrate, the target electrode being biased relative to the substrate with a first bias voltage to ionize the atomic species in proximity to the free-standing tips and attract the ionized atomic species from the substrate in the direction of the target electrode. |
| US08709348B1 |
Reduced sorbent utilization for circulating dry scrubbers
Circulating dry scrubbing (CDS) systems and methods utilizes a particle classification unit operation to separate unreacted sorbent (such as lime, limestone, or sodium-based sorbent) such that a reactive fraction of the cut stream may be selectively recovered to a flue gas scrubbing system. This reduces the amount of fresh sorbent that must be supplied for pollutant removal. |
| US08709342B2 |
Antimicrobial flush solutions
The present invention provides antimicrobial solutions that comprise at least one alcohol, at least one antimicrobial agent and at least one chelator and/or anticoagulant. Also provided are methods for rapidly reducing a microbe or a virus from surfaces including surfaces of indwelling medical devices and organic surfaces such as skin and sutures, and inorganic surfaces such as hospital equipment, pipelines etc. |
| US08709337B2 |
Method for delivering a volatile material
A method of delivering a volatile material to the atmosphere in a continuous manner is disclosed. The method includes providing a delivery engine having a reservoir that includes a volatile material mixture. The volatile material mixture includes about 40% to about 100%, by total weight, of the volatile materials each having a vapor pressure at 25° C. of less than about 0.1 torr. The delivery system also includes a microporous membrane enclosing the reservoir, wherein the microporous membrane comprises an average pore size of about 0.01 to about 0.03 microns. |
| US08709335B1 |
Method of making a CIG target by cold spraying
A method of making a sputtering target includes providing a backing structure, and forming a copper indium gallium sputtering target material on the backing structure by cold spraying. The step of cold spraying includes spraying a powder comprising copper, indium and gallium in a process gas stream, and at least one of an average particle size of the powder is at least 35 μm, a velocity of the process gas stream is at least 150 m/s, or a process gas pressure is 20 bar or less. |
| US08709333B2 |
Method of manufacturing pipe with branch
The present invention includes injecting a molten resin into a main cavity, which has on its one end a pressure port provided with a floating core and on its other end a first outlet, and a branch cavity, which communicates with the main cavity and has on its end a second outlet allowed to open and close, injecting a pressurized fluid through the pressure port after the injection of the molten resin, and moving the floating core to the first outlet side, and, at the same time, extruding the molten resin from the first outlet to form a main pipe hollow, and opening the second outlet after the main pipe hollow reaches a portion at which the branch cavity communicates with the main cavity, and extruding the molten resin by the pressurized fluid from the second outlet to form the branch pipe hollow. |
| US08709330B2 |
Manufacturing aircraft parts
A method and apparatus is present for manufacturing parts. A powder material is comprised of a polymer that is semi-crystalline. The powder material has an overlap between a melting temperature range and a crystallization temperature range. The powder material also has a size particular distribution that is substantially a Gaussian distribution, a particle shape that is substantially spherical, and a desired melt flow rate that is less than a temperature at which the powder material begins to chemically break down. The powder material is selected to form a selected powder material. A part is manufactured using an energy delivery system and the selected powder material. |
| US08709329B2 |
Medical capsule housing formed by thermal welding
A capsule-type medical apparatus includes a distal-end cover which is formed in a substantially hemispherical dome shape, the distal-end cover having an open bonding end portion; a drum portion cover which is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, the drum portion cover having an open bonding end portion; a function executing unit which executes a predetermined preset function, the function executing unit being accommodated in the drum portion cover; and an electric storage unit which accumulates drive electric power for driving the function executing unit, wherein the bonding end portion of the distal-end cover and the bonding end portion of the drum portion cover are subjected to a surface treatment, the bonding end portion of the distal-end cover and the bonding end portion of the drum portion cover are bonded after the surface treatment to form an outer casing which has a capsule shape insertable into a test subject and which seals an inside in a liquid tight manner. |
| US08709328B2 |
Method for forming ventilation holes in an electrode plate
This method for forming ventilation holes in an electrode plate includes: a roughening step of roughening a surface of an electrode plate for a plasma processing apparatus such that a center line average roughness Ra becomes in a range of 0.2 μm to 30 μm; and a ventilation hole forming step of irradiating a laser beam having a wavelength within a range of 200 nm to 600 nm on a roughened surface of the electrode plate so as to form ventilation holes in the electrode plate which pass through the electrode plate in a thickness direction, wherein in the ventilation hole forming step, a focus spot of the laser light is swirled along a planar direction of the electrode plate so as to form a circular irradiation area, and while moving the irradiation area along a planar direction of the electrode plate in a circular movement, the focus spot of the laser light is shifted in a thickness direction of the electrode plate. |
| US08709320B2 |
Three-dimensional filter
A three-dimensional filter includes a filter frame having a three-dimensional skeletal structure with a filter media connected to the skeletal structure. The filters are nestable. The skeletal structure may be trimmed and provided with walls to create standard sized filters. Methods for making the three-dimensional filter include injection molding of the skeletal structure onto the filter media, injection molding the filter media and the filter frame together in a single molding process, thermoforming a molded or extruded skeletal structure and the filter media, and needle punching a molded or extruded skeletal structure to create filter media within the skeletal structure. |
| US08709319B2 |
Compression molding method and reinforced thermoplastic parts molded thereby
A fiber reinforced part is formed from a compression molded thermoplastic resin reinforced with individual fibers of differing lengths randomly oriented substantially throughout the part. |
| US08709318B2 |
Method and apparatus for belling plastic pipe
An improved pipe belling process is shown which features a mandrel having a specially designed backup or forming collar. The backup collar has an outer contact surface which forms an undulating pattern when viewed in cross section. The undulating surface reduces the contact area between the outer contact surface of the collar and the lip region of a plastic pipe being belled, thereby lowering the coefficient of friction that exists between the pipe lip region and the collar. |
| US08709314B2 |
Method for manufacturing a turbine engine vane
Fabricating a blade by 3D weaving a preform that is to be impregnated with resin. The visibility of the cut ends of certain yarns of the preform, e.g. the warp yarns, is accentuated in order to cause curved lines to appear, and the configuration of these curved lines is compared with a reference configuration in order to shape the preform properly. |
| US08709313B2 |
Method and apparatus for feeding a polyurethane mixture into hollow bodies
A method and apparatus for feeding a polyurethane mixture suitable to form a thermally insulating layer inside hollow bodies, such as hollow walls of a refrigerator cabinet, freezer, display counter or insulating panel. A polyurethane mixture resulting from chemically reactive components, supplied by a high-pressure mixing device, is injected into a cavity of a hollow body extending in a horizontal plain. The mixture is injected at a first flow-rate and a first injection speed, to be poured into a first deposition zone farthest from the injection point. Subsequently, the flow-rate and the injection speed of the polyurethane mixture are gradually reduced in a controlled manner, to be poured in successive deposition zones towards the injection point of the polyurethane mixture, along a distribution strip, allowing the injected mixture to spread out throughout the cavity of the hollow body along isometric expansion lines. |
| US08709311B2 |
Method and device for extracting vapors in an injection molding machine
The present invention relates to a method and to a device for extracting air in an injection molding device. The device comprises an extraction hood having a housing, in which one or more extraction ducts are provided, wherein the extraction hood can be disposed in the region of the injection nozzle of an injection unit, the housing at least partially encloses the injection nozzle of the injection unit, and air can be extracted from the region of the injection nozzle via openings (38) or ducts (34), and a ventilation device connected to the housing of the extraction hood (16) for flowing. According to the invention, the extraction hood and/or the ventilation device can be adjusted for implementing different extraction intensities in at least two operating modes. |
| US08709310B2 |
Spray drying vancomycin
A method and formulation for preparing spray dried vancomycin. In various embodiment, the formulation includes vancomycin HC1 (10-20%) and one or more of the following PEG (0-5%), mannitol (0-5%), ethanol (0-10%), and a citrate buffer. Spray dried vancomycin has favorable reconstitution times and water content. |
| US08709304B2 |
Hydrothermal synthesis of nanocubes of sillenite type compounds for photovoltaic applications and solar energy conversion of carbon dioxide to fuels
The present invention relates to formation of nanocubes of sillenite type compounds, such as bismuth titanate, i.e., Bi12TiO20, nanocubes, via a hydrothermal synthesis process, with the resulting compound(s) having multifunctional properties such as being useful in solar energy conversion, environmental remediation, and/or energy storage, for example. In one embodiment, a hydrothermal method is disclosed that transforms nanoparticles of TiO2 to bismuth titanate, i.e., Bi12TiO20, nanocubes, optionally loaded with palladium nanoparticles. The method includes reacting titanium dioxide nanotubes with a bismuth salt in an acidic bath at a temperature sufficient and for a time sufficient to form bismuth titanate crystals, which are subsequently annealed to form bismuth titanate nanocubes. After annealing, the bismuth titanate nanocubes may be optionally loaded with nano-sized metal particles, e.g., nanosized palladium particles. |
| US08709302B2 |
Nickel-cobalt-manganese multi-element lithium ion battery cathode material with dopants and its methods of preparation
The present invention discloses a high compact density nickel-cobalt-manganese multi-element lithium ion battery cathode material with dopants and methods of its preparation. A preparation method of this battery cathode material is as follows: (A) preparing a nickel-cobalt-manganese multi-element intermediate with dopants by co-precipitation or chemical synthesis; (B) preparing a mixture by mixing said multi-element intermediate with a lithium salt; (C) pre-treating the said mixture, then adding into it polyvinyl alcohol and mixing uniformly; (D) pressing the resulting material into lumps, calcining the lumps at 800˜950° C., cooling after its removal from the furnace, crushing, passing through a 400 mesh sieve; (E) calcining the resulting power at 700˜800° C., cooling after its removal from the furnace, crushing and sieving to obtain a product. The lithium battery cathode material obtained using the above-described method has the formula LiNixCoyMnzM(1-x-y-z)O2. The cathode material has non-agglomerated single crystal particles. The material has a particle size ranging from 0.6˜30 μm, a compact density of 3.5˜3.7 g/cm3, and an initial discharge capacity of 150˜165 mAh/g, with excellent cycling and safety performance. |
| US08709298B2 |
Electrode material and use thereof for production of electrochemical cells
A compound of the general formula (I) AaMbPcOd (I) in which the variables are each defined as follows: M is at least one transition metal selected from Co, Ni, Mn, Fe and Cr, A is Li or LixNa1-x where x is in the range from 0.2 to 1.0, a is in the range from 3.5 to 4.5, b is in the range from 0.8 to 1.2, c is in the range from 1.8 to 2.2 and d is in the range from 7.2 to 8.8. |
| US08709292B2 |
Polymer composites having highly dispersed carbon nanotubes
A carbon nanotube-polymer composite includes a polymer continuous phase having at least a first polymer, and a plurality of carbon nanotubes dispersed in the polymer continuous phase. The carbon nanotubes are non-functionalized nanotubes. The carbon nanotubes are between 0.05 and 40 weight % of the composite. At least 98% of the carbon nanotubes are not involved in nanotube bundles. |
| US08709289B2 |
High conductive water-based silver ink
Disclosed is a conductive composition which can be used to form an aqueous conductive ink with increased conductivity. A film of the dry ink having a thickness of 5 microns or less has a surface roughness of less than 1.5 times the surface roughness of a cellulosic-based substrate which it coats. The aqueous conductive composition contains conductive particles, preferably silver, an anionic wetting agent and a styrene-acrylic copolymer. The composition is highly conductive and requires reduced drying energy. In addition, it may be applied to low cost substrates by high speed printing processes. |
| US08709284B2 |
ZnO green luminescent material and its preparation
The present invention relates to ZnO green luminescent material and its preparation. The ZnO green luminescent material is prepared by doping a trivalent rare earth ion compound and a Li compound into zinc oxide material. The method comprises the following steps: (1) weighing raw material in the stoichiometric ratio of formula ZnO: xA, yLi, (2) grinding the raw material, sintering it at 800-1200° C. for 2-8 h, cooling to the room temperature, and then obtaining the ZnO green luminescent material. The present ZnO green luminescent material doped with trivalent rare earth ion compound and Li compound has high stability and luminous intensity, and has higher low-voltage cathode ray luminescence efficiency. The method can easily be operated and can be used widely. |
| US08709281B2 |
2,2′-binaphthalene ester chiral dopants for cholesteric liquid crystal displays
A liquid crystal composition comprising a chiral dopant compound represented by the following structure (Structure 1): wherein: R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen, —(C═O)R9, —(C═O)R10, alkyl, aryl, alkaryl, alkenyl, cycloalkyl, alkoxyaryl, or heterocyclic all either substituted or unsubstituted, or combine to form a carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring; and R3-R9 are as described in the disclosure. Also featured are liquid crystal compositions comprising a chiral dopant compound represented by any of Structure 2-4 as described in the disclosure. |
| US08709280B2 |
Polar nematic compounds
Polar nematic compounds having the following structure: where is a caged boron structure. The sphere of the caged boron structure is C and each non-sphere vertex of the caged boron structure is B—H. R is H, an alkyl, a cycloalkyl, a bicycloalkyl, an alkenyl, a cycloalkenyl, a bicycloalkenyl, an alkynyl, an acyl, an aryl, an alkylaryl, a halogen, a cyano group, an isothiocyanoto group, or a group that forms an ether, a ketone, an ester, a thioester, a sulfide, or a sulfone. R′ is H, an alkyl, a cycloalkyl, a bicycloalkyl, an alkenyl, a cycloalkenyl, a bicycloalkenyl, an alkynyl, an aryl, an alkylaryl, or a halogen. The compounds may be used in liquid crystal displays, and in television sets, laptop computers, computer monitors, hand-held communication devices, gaming devices, watches, cash registers, clocks, and calculators having liquid crystal displays. |
| US08709275B2 |
Hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant compositions for heat pump water heaters
Hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant compositions enable the use of existing compressor technologies in heat pump water heaters in a reliable (low discharge temperatures and pressures) and efficient (high capacity and efficiency) manner. The refrigerant comprises blends of pentafluoroethane (HFC-125), difluoromethane (HFC-32), tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) and tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234ze). |
| US08709274B2 |
Curable inks comprising surfactant-coated magnetic nanoparticles
There is provided novel curable ink compositions comprising surfactant-coated magnetic metal nanoparticles. In particular, there is provided ultraviolet (UV) curable gel inks comprising at least a coated magnetic metal nanoparticles, one curable monomer, a radiation activated initiator that initiates polymerization of curable components of the ink, and optionally a gellant. The inks may also include optional colorants and one or more optional additives. These curable UV ink compositions can be used for ink jet printing in a variety of applications. |
| US08709272B2 |
Mixture, especially spinning solution
A mixture includes a polymer solution, especially a cellulose solution, a first additive in the form of an inorganic lubricant and/or stabilizer, for example graphite, and a second additive as an adsorbent, for example activated carbon. The inorganic lubricants and/or stabilizers do not weaken the positive properties of the adsorbent but can even improve them. The mixture can be used to produce fibers (7) or moldings. |
| US08709269B2 |
Method and system for imaging a cross section of a specimen
A method and a system for obtaining an image of a cross section of a specimen, the method includes: milling the specimen so as to expose a cross section of the specimen, in which the cross section comprises at least one first portion made of a first material and at least one second portion made of a second material; smoothing the cross section; performing gas assisted etching of the cross section so as generate a topography difference between the at least one first portion and the at least one second portion of the cross section; coating the cross section with a thin layer of conductive material; and obtaining an image of the cross section; wherein the milling, smoothing, performing, coating and obtaining are performed while the specimen is placed in a vacuum chamber. |
| US08709266B2 |
Method of manufacturing substrate for liquid discharge head
A method of manufacturing a substrate for a liquid discharge head having a supply port passing through a silicon substrate provided with an energy-generating element generating the energy used to discharge a liquid and allowing liquid to be supplied to the energy-generating element, includes preparing a silicon substrate in which a first etching mask having a first opening is provided on a first face, and a second etching mask having a second opening is provided on a second face that is the rear face of the first face; forming a first recess towards the second face from the first face within the first opening, and forming a second recess towards the first face from the second face within in the second opening; and performing crystalline anisotropic etching using the first and second etching masks as masks from both of the first and second faces, to form the supply port. |
| US08709265B2 |
Method for manufacturing touch panel and method for manufacturing display device provided with touch panel
Provided is a touch panel manufacturing method wherein the number of exposure masks needed for pattern formation is reduced, and a method for manufacturing a display device provided with a touch panel. A transparent conductive film layer (11) and a metal layer (12) are laminated on a transparent substrate (1), and the transparent conductive film layer (11) and the metal layer (12) are formed into predetermined electrode patterns, with use of one resist pattern. A protective film (13) covering the transparent conductive film layer (11) and the metal layer (12) is formed, and openings (14, 15, and 16) are provided at predetermined positioned in the protective film (13). By etching with use of the protective film (13) having the openings (14, 15, and 16), the metal layer (12) is removed so that the transparent conductive film layer (11) is exposed, whereby at least either touch electrodes (2) or connection terminals (5) are formed. |
| US08709264B2 |
Planar cavity MEMS and related structures, methods of manufacture and design structures
A method of forming a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) includes forming a lower electrode on a first insulator layer within a cavity of the MEMS. The method further includes forming an upper electrode over another insulator material on top of the lower electrode which is at least partially in contact with the lower electrode. The forming of the lower electrode and the upper electrode includes adjusting a metal volume of the lower electrode and the upper electrode to modify beam bending. |
| US08709261B2 |
System and method for monitoring water transmission of UV light in disinfection systems
Some demonstrative embodiments of the invention include a system and a method for disinfection of a liquid including monitoring the disinfection process. The system may include a conduit to carry flowing liquid to be disinfected, wherein the conduit comprises an inlet to receive the liquid, an outlet to discharge the liquid and walls transparent to ultraviolet radiations; an illumination source located within a transparent sleeve, wherein the transparent sleeve is immersed in the flowing liquid and the illumination source is to disinfect the liquid when passing through the conduit, a first light detector located externally to the conduit to detect light emitted by the illumination source and a second light detector located externally to the conduit to detect light emitted by the illumination source. |
| US08709259B2 |
Method for treating a variety of wastewater streams
The present invention is a wastewater treatment method using dried BOF slag and hydrogen peroxide, wherein hydrogen peroxide is oxidized to generate hydroxyl radicals that reacts with soluble metal contaminants in the sludge such that these contaminants can be adsorb on the catalyst particles and/or eliminated from the wastewater stream by separation techniques. The process can use catalytic oxidation for soluble metals removal. In addition, catalytic oxidation can produce a filtered water saturated with Oxygen and higher in pH resulting in enhanced precipitation of soluble metals when softening agents, such as Sodium Carbonate, are added in a subsequent processing step. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method using ferrous sulfate for removing soluble metals in wastewater, followed by Catalytic Oxidation to remove soluble Fe without addition of metal salts, and removing sulfates by adding Barium Carbonate. |
| US08709252B2 |
Filter unit for treating water and other liquid media
A filter unit for treating water includes at least two ceramic filter membranes; and a mount for the at least two ceramic filter membranes, wherein the ceramic filter membranes are formed in the shape of plates and each have a filter-active outer side and at least one internally lying discharge channel for filtered water, the mount has a collection space, via which water leaving the discharge channels can be drained, and the mount has at least two sockets that liquid-tight fix the at least two ceramic filter membranes in which they are fixed so that the internally lying discharge channels are in communicating connection with the collection space and at least the part of the mount having the sockets for the ceramic filter membranes is a shaped part formed in one piece. |
| US08709250B2 |
Tubular electro-acoustic aggregation device
Described herein are systems, methods, and apparatuses for aggregating microorganism in an aqueous suspension. In particular, are systems, methods, and apparatuses that apply an electrical field and/or acoustic energy to an aqueous suspension comprising microorganisms as the aqueous suspension follows a flow path to cause aggregation of the microorganisms. The electrical field may be continuous or pulsed. In some embodiments, the flow path for the aqueous suspension may vary. |
| US08709248B2 |
Molded filter end cap and method of manufacture
A filter element including a filter media, a first end cap, and a second end cap is provided. The filter media has first and second filter ends. The first end cap is attached to the first filter end and the second end cap is attached to the second filter end. The second end cap is formed from a molded material and includes a handle structure unitarily molded therein. The handle structure includes a flange with a void formed at least partially transversely therethrough. The void is molded without a mold split such that no mold split parting line is formed on the second end cap. In one embodiment, the void is formed in the flange of the handle structure using a grommet molded therein. |
| US08709247B2 |
Filter apparatus with ejection arrangement
A filter cartridge including catches for ejecting the filter cartridge from a filter housing as the filter cartridge and filter housing are removed from a filter base is provided. The catches are configured to engage corresponding catches of the filter base to limit axial motion of the filter cartridge as the filter cartridge and filter housing are threadedly removed from the filter base. |
| US08709244B2 |
Mobile system and method for generating and dispensing a chemical
A mobile system for generating and dispensing a chemical includes a portable platform comprising a source of a gaseous chemical, the gaseous chemical forming a solution in water, and a fluid coupling through which the gaseous chemical is delivered to a body of water. |
| US08709242B2 |
Water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher
A water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher, includes a hydraulic circuit for circulation of a wash fluid, and a filter facility which includes a filter element having an inner wall and at least one filter opening for passage of the wash fluid. The filter opening is bounded by the inner wall running around the filter opening. The inner wall has an upstream wall segment and a downstream wall segment, with a gradation being formed at least in a segment between an upstream and downstream wall segment of the inner wall of the filter opening. Additionally or independently hereof, the downstream wall segment has a cross section that increases in a flow direction of the wash fluid. |
| US08709241B2 |
Retrofittable control unit for a softening apparatus
A control unit for a softening device, comprising a primary inlet for untreated water, a primary outlet for blended water, a sensor for determining the water hardness of the untreated water WHraw, or the blended water WHblend, a secondary outlet, a secondary inlet, a bypass line, a blending means which can be automatically adjusted for mixing a blended water flow Vblend(t) from a first partial flow (V(t)part1soft of the secondary inlet and a second partial flow V(t)part2raw of the bypass line, and an electronic control means, wherein the control means is designed to readjust the adjustment position of the blending means by means of the determined water hardness in such a fashion that the water hardness in the blended water flow Vblend(t) is adjusted to a predetermined desired value, enables partial softening of water on the basis of fully automatic blending, thereby utilizing already existing softening devices. |
| US08709230B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficient gas production
An apparatus and method for sorting ions in order to produce gas from liquid. A first electric field source is electrically insulated from the liquid by an insulating layer. A first conductive deionization surface is positioned in the liquid and within a field line of the first electric field source. An electric conductor is connected to the first conductive deionization surface to discharge charge built up due to attracted ions located on the first conductive deionization surface. The gas is produced on said first conductive deionization surface when said first conductive deionization surface is positioned within the water. |
| US08709229B2 |
Method to prevent sulfur accumulation in membrane electrode assembly
A method of operating a hybrid sulfur electrolyzer to generate hydrogen is provided that includes the steps of providing an anolyte with a concentration of sulfur dioxide, and applying a current. During steady state generation of hydrogen a plot of applied current density versus concentration of sulfur dioxide is below a boundary line. The boundary line may be linear and extend through the origin of the graph with a slope of 0.001 in which the current density is measured in mA/cm2 and the concentration of sulfur dioxide is measured in moles of sulfur dioxide per liter of anolyte. |
| US08709225B2 |
Electrodeionization device with protected electrodes
The present invention relates generally to the deionization of liquids through the use of electrodeionization methods and apparatuses. The apparatuses may be configured to minimize the fouling of the electrode chambers and to provide continuous regeneration of the ion exchange materials. The apparatuses may be configured according to the desired levels of deionization for anions, cations, or both. Finally, methods are presented for various uses of the apparatuses. |
| US08709224B2 |
Methods for the detection of biologically relevant molecules and their interaction characteristics
Methods for the detection of biologically relevant molecules that comprise concentrating such molecules into microscopic holes in a sheet of chemically inert material, restricting the openings, and measuring the electric current through the holes or the fluorescence near the hole openings. The electric current or fluorescence will change as the molecules diffuse out of the holes, providing a measure of the diffusion rate and thereby detecting the presence and characteristics of the molecules. For molecules that interact, the diffusion rate will be slower than for molecules that do not interact, yielding a determination of the molecular interaction. Capping the population of holes and inserting into a mass spectrometer allows identification of the molecules. |
| US08709223B2 |
Nanotube electrochemistry
The invention relates to electrodes for electrochemical analysis comprising: —an insulating surface; —carbon nanotubes situated on the insulating surface at a density of at least 0.1 μmCNT Um−2; and —an electrically conducting material in electrical contact with the carbon nanotubes; wherein the carbon nanotubes cover an area of no more than about 5.0% of the insulating surface. Methods of making such electrodes and assay devices or kits with such electrodes, are also provided. |
| US08709220B2 |
Water electrolysis apparatus
Each unit cell of a water electrolysis apparatus includes a pair of an anode separator and a cathode separator and a membrane electrode assembly interposed between the pair of separators. The anode separator has a first flow field to which water is supplied, and the cathode separator has a second flow field for producing high-pressure hydrogen through electrolysis of the water. A second seal groove for receiving a second seal member is disposed annularly around the second flow field. A pressure-releasing chamber is disposed outwardly of the second seal groove, is capable of communicating with the second seal groove and communicates with the outside through a depressurizing channel. |
| US08709219B2 |
Structured diamond tool made by focused ion beam nanomachining
A structured diamond tool having a predefined grayscale grating profile shape allows a corresponding grayscale grating profile to be machined into a work piece with a single pass with high accuracy. Manufacture of grayscale gratings using this technique saves time compared to the situation where the profile is machined by a single-point diamond tool with multiple passes. Also, more time-saving is realized if more than one period is machined in the diamond tool. Such a tool can be manufactured using a high precision focused ion beam (FIB), which is a true nanomachining tool that can machine features on the order of tens of nanometers. The diamond tool made by FIB therefore has extremely fine resolution and features required by the grayscale grating. |
| US08709218B2 |
Vacuum processing apparatus, vacuum processing method, and electronic device manufacturing method
A vacuum processing apparatus includes an evacuatable vacuum chamber, a substrate holder which is provided in the vacuum chamber, has a substrate chuck surface vertically facing down, and includes an electrostatic chuck mechanism which electrostatically chucks a substrate, a substrate support member which is provided in the vacuum chamber to keep the substrate parallel to the substrate chuck surface and support the substrate in an orientation that allows the substrate chuck surface to chuck the substrate, and a moving mechanism which moves at least one of the substrate holder and the substrate supported by the substrate support member so as to bring the substrate and the substrate holder into contact with each other, thereby causing the substrate holder to chuck the substrate. |
| US08709217B2 |
Production of carbon nanostructures from functionalized fullerenes
Electromagnetic irradiation of functionalized fullerenes in an oxygen-free environment induces conversion of the functionalized fullerenes to carbon nanotubes, carbon nanohorns, carbon onions, diamonds and/or carbon schwarzites. The carbon nanotubes can be multi-wall carbon nanotubes. Advantageously, the subject invention can be used for in-situ synthesis of carbon nanostructures within a matrix to form a carbon nanostructure composite, where positioning of the carbon nanostructures is controlled by the manner of dispersion of the functionalized fullerenes in the matrix. Carbon nanotube comprising features, such as electrical connects, can be formed on a surface by irradiating a portion of a functionalized fullerene coating with a laser beam. |
| US08709209B2 |
Anionic lipophilic glycerol-based polymers for organic deposition control in papermaking processes
The invention is directed to methods and compositions for reducing the deposition of pitches and stickies in a papermaking process. The method involves introducing an anionic glycerol-based polymer to the papermaking process. This anionic polymer prevents the pitches and stickies from depositing and agglomerating in papermaking processes. |
| US08709203B2 |
Fractionation of a waste liquor stream from nanocrystalline cellulose production
During nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) production, a considerable amount of sulphuric acid is used. After the separation of the NCC, the remaining solution contains sugars and residual sulphuric acid. The sugars are in the monomeric and oligomeric forms. To reduce the cost of NCC production and to produce other added-value products, the spent acid stream can be fractionated into sugar oligomers, sugar monomers, and acid. The acid can be recycled to the NCC manufacturing process after concentration. The sugar monomers and sugar oligomers can be used for the manufacturing of other valuable chemicals. Membrane nanofiltration can be used to achieve this objective. A polymeric membrane with a molecular weight cut-off in the range of 200 Dalton was employed. Using this approach, the majority of the acid was recovered in the permeate while the sugars were concentrated in a smaller stream. The sugar level in the separated acid/permeate stream was only about 3% of the original concentration. A second membrane filtration stage can be used to separate the monomeric from the oligomeric sugars. The two sugar streams can be employed in different applications to produce value-added products. |
| US08709200B2 |
Method for corrosion protection treatment
A method provides an adhesive strip to protect metal surfaces from corrosion. The adhesive strip has a layer of olefin polymer with a density between 0.86 g/cm3 and 0.91 g/cm3 and a crystallite melting point of at least 105° C. The adhesive strip is applied onto a metal surface, and the strip is heated such that the layer is molten, thereby forming a corrosion protection layer for the metal surface. |
| US08709198B2 |
High-speed expanded content labels
The present application is directed to methods for applying multiple labels to an object. An exemplary method comprises affixing an inner label to the object, then affixing an outer label over the inner label. One or more edges of the outer label may be coupled to the inner label using a releasable or a resealable adhesive such that the outer label may be decoupled from the inner label. |
| US08709194B1 |
Assembling an electrode device
A method of assembling an electronic device includes providing a transparent conductive polymer layer coated over a first support followed by pattern-wise forming a transparent mask with at least one opening over the conductive polymer. The masked conductive polymer is subjected to treatment through the opening that changes conductivity of the conductive polymer by at least one order of magnitude in areas not covered by the mask to form a first electronic component. The first electronic component having the mask is secured to a second electronic component, thereby forming the electronic device. |
| US08709184B2 |
Single walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber production via multi-vacuum filtration method
Provided is single-walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber production via a multi-vacuum filtration method, and more particularly, single-walled carbon nanotube saturable absorber production via a multi-vacuum filtration method, capable of depositing a carbon nanotube thin film on a filter using a vacuum chamber and a membrane filter, etching the filter using an etchant so as to be transferred to an upper surface of the polymer, coating the polymer on the carbon nanotube to thereby produce a carbon nanotube saturable absorber, as a method of producing a carbon nanotube thin film to transfer the thin film to the polymer using a multi-filtration method in order to produce a passive saturable absorber to be used in laser oscillation. |
| US08709183B2 |
Welded knot end effector
An apparatus for forming an end effector includes a welding device having a welder positioned adjacent to a base, and a die coupled to one end of the welder. The base and the welder are movable relative to each other. The welder, base or die includes a source of heat that is applied to a portion of the suture disposed between the welder and the base. |
| US08709179B2 |
Suppressing tin whisker growth in lead-free solders and platings
A process of irradiation Sn containing Pb-free solder to mitigate whisker formation and growth thereon is provided. The use of gamma radiation such as cobalt-60 has been applied to a substrate of Sn on copper has been found to change the morphology of the crystalline whisker growth to a more truncated hillock pattern. The change in morphology greatly reduces the tendency of whiskers to contribute to electrical short-circuits being used as a Pb-free solder system on a copper substrate. |
| US08709177B2 |
Shape memory alloy articles with improved fatigue performance and methods therefore
Articles made of shape memory alloys having improved fatigue performance and to methods of treating articles formed from shape memory alloy materials by pre-straining the articles (or desired portions of the articles) in a controlled manner so that the resultant articles exhibit improved fatigue performance. The shape memory articles are preferably medical devices, more preferably implantable medical devices. They are most preferably devices of nitinol shape memory alloy, most particularly that is superelastic at normal body temperature. The pre-straining method of the present invention as performed on such articles includes the controlled introduction of non-recoverable tensile strains greater than about 0.20% at the surface of a desired portion of a shape memory alloy article. Controlled pre-straining operations are performed on the shape-set nitinol metal to achieve non-recoverable tensile strain greater than about 0.20% at or near the surface of selected regions in the nitinol metal article. |
| US08709175B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine comprising a ring carrier being formed of a cast iron alloy
An engine component such as, for example, an engine piston or a part thereof, for instance a ring carrier or piston boss bushing, consisting of a cast iron alloy that contains zirconium as an alloy constituent in an amount by weight of at least 0.01% and up to 0.1%. |
| US08709174B2 |
Seamless steel pipe for line pipe and method for manufacturing the same
A seamless steel pipe for line pipe having high strength and high toughness contains, by mass percent, C: 0.02 to 0.10%, Si: at most 0.5%, Mn: 0.5 to 2.0%, Al: 0.01 to 0.1%, P: at most 0.03%, S: at most 0.005%, Ca: at most 0.005%, and N: at most 0.007%, and further contains at least one selected from a group consisting of Ti: at most 0.008%, V: less than 0.06%, and Nb: at most 0.05%, the balance being Fe and impurities. A carbon equivalent Ceq defined by Formula (1) is at least 0.38, a content of Ti, V and Nb satisfies Formula (2), and the size of carbo-nitride containing at least one of Ti, V, Nb and Al is at most 200 nm, Ceq=C+Mn/6+(Cr+Mo+V)/5+(Ni+Cu)/15 (1) Ti+V+Nb<0.06 (2). |
| US08709172B2 |
Washing apparatus
Washing apparatus includes a washing chamber having two lateral walls, bottom wall and upper wall, and at the front an aperture for inlet and/or outlet; a main distribution circuit to distribute treatment fluid inside the chamber; a trolley-type movement device, insertable into the chamber, including a frame to support objects to be subjected to a washing cycle in the chamber and on which treatment fluid distribution elements are mounted. The frame formed by hollow tubular elements functioning as a secondary distribution circuit of washing liquid towards the distribution elements; a connector element located on a frame upper part as a secondary distribution circuit delivery element; and a hydraulic connection pipe mounted on the upper wall, to connect hydraulically the main distribution circuit to the secondary distribution circuit connector element, selectively movable vertically between a first position connected to the connector element and a second position separate from the connector element. |
| US08709171B2 |
Dishwasher machine comprising a sorption drying device
A dishwasher having a washing compartment; a sorption drying system to dry items to be washed, wherein the sorption drying system has a sorption compartment with reversibly dehydratable sorption material; and an air-guiding channel connecting the sorption compartment with the washing compartment to generate an airflow; wherein the sorption compartment has a pot-type housing part that is closed by a cover. |
| US08709170B2 |
Supercritical drying method for semiconductor substrate
In one embodiment, after rinsing a semiconductor substrate having a fine pattern formed thereon with pure water, the pure water staying on the semiconductor substrate is substituted with a water soluble organic solvent, and then, the semiconductor substrate is introduced into a chamber in a state wet with the water soluble organic solvent. Then, the water soluble organic solvent is turned into a supercritical state by increasing a temperature inside of the chamber. Thereafter, the inside of the chamber is reduced in pressure while keeping the inside of the chamber at a temperature enough not to liquefy the pure water (i.e., rinsing pure water mixed into the water soluble organic solvent), and further, the water soluble organic solvent in the supercritical state is changed into a gaseous state, to be discharged from the chamber, so that the semiconductor substrate is dried. |
| US08709169B2 |
Use of quaternary ammonium compound as a hydrotrope and a composition containing the quaternary ammonium compound
The present invention relates to the use of an alkyl di(lower alkyl)mono(polyoxyethylene) quaternary ammonium compound as a hydrotrope in 5 aqueous solutions for a nonionic surfactant, preferably a C8-C18-alcohol alkoxylate containing 1-20 ethyleneoxy units and 0-5 propyleneoxy units. It also relates to a composition comprising said quaternary ammonium compound and said nonionic surfactant. The cationic surfactant has the formula 10 R2+R(1)N(CH2CH2O)n H X R1 wherein R═C6-C22 alkyl; R1 and R2 are independently a C1-C4 alkyl group; n=8-25; and X− is an anion. The compositions may be used for the cleaning of hard surfaces, for example for vehicle cleaning or machine dishwashing. |
| US08709158B2 |
Thermal management of film deposition processes
Thermal management of film deposition processes. In one aspect, a deposition system includes a vacuum chamber defining an evacuated interior volume, a deposition source disposed within the interior volume, a substrate holder disposed within the interior volume and arranged to hold a substrate with a first surface of the substrate facing the deposition source and a second surface of the substrate disposed facing away from the deposition source, and a heat sink disposed to have a first side of the heat sink in radiative thermal contact with the second surface of the substrate held by the substrate holder, the first side of the heat sink comprising a collection of features having a longitudinal dimension that is four or more times larger than a lateral dimension between the features, the features thereby dimensioned and aligned to reflect, multiple times in succession, radiative thermal emissions of the second surface of the substrate. |
| US08709156B2 |
Methods for producing epitaxially coated silicon wafers
Epitaxially coated silicon wafers are produced by placing a wafer polished on its front side on a susceptor in an epitaxy reactor, first pretreating under a hydrogen atmosphere and in a second and a third step with addition of an etching medium to the hydrogen atmosphere, and subsequently providing an epitaxial layer, wherein during the first and second steps the hydrogen flow rate is 20-100 slm, during the second and third steps the flow rate of the etching medium is 0.5-1.5 slm, during the second step the average temperature in the reactor chamber is 950-1050° C., and the power of heating elements above and below the susceptor is regulated such that there is a temperature difference of 5-30° C. between a radially symmetrical region encompassing the central axis of and a part lying outside this region; and during the third step the hydrogen flow rate is reduced to 0.5-10 slm. In a second method, during the third pretreatment step the flow rate of the etching medium is increased to 1.5-5 slm, while the hydrogen flow rate does not have to be reduced. |
| US08709155B1 |
Method of preparing scintillation materials with reduced afterglow
Scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, and a variety of second dopants (co-dopants). In another embodiment, the scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, a variety of second dopants (co-dopants), and a variety of third dopants (co-dopants). Co-dopants of this invention are capable of providing a second auxiliary luminescent cation dopant, capable of introducing an anion size and electronegativity mismatch, capable of introducing a mismatch of anion charge, or introducing a mismatch of cation charge in the host material. |
| US08709153B2 |
Microfludic protein crystallography techniques
The present invention relates to microfluidic devices and methods facilitating the growth and analysis of crystallized materials such as proteins. In accordance with one embodiment, a crystal growth architecture is separated by a permeable membrane from an adjacent well having a much larger volume. The well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity and concentration similar to the solvent and crystallizing agent employed in crystal growth, with diffusion across the membrane stabilizing that process. Alternatively, the well may be configured to contain a fluid having an identity calculated to affect the crystallization process. In accordance with the still other embodiment, the well may be configured to contain a material such as a cryo-protectant, which is useful in protecting the crystalline material once formed. |
| US08709152B2 |
Microfluidic free interface diffusion techniques
A static fluid and a second fluid are placed into contact along a microfluidic free interface and allowed to mix by diffusion without convective flow across the interface. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the fluids are static and initially positioned on either side of a closed valve structure in a microfluidic channel having a width that is tightly constrained in at least one dimension. The valve is then opened, and no-slip layers at the sides of the microfluidic channel suppress convective mixing between the two fluids along the resulting interface. Applications for microfluidic free interfaces in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, protein crystallization studies, protein solubility studies, determination of properties of fluidics systems, and a variety of biological assays such as diffusive immunoassays, substrate turnover assays, and competitive binding assays. |
| US08709149B2 |
Hydraulic cements, methods and products
Non-aqueous hydraulic cement compositions comprise a non-aqueous mixture of a powder composition and a non-aqueous water-miscible liquid. In one embodiment, powder composition is a Brushite or Monetite-forming calcium phosphate powder composition. In another embodiment, the powder composition comprises porous β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) granules and at least one additional calcium phosphate powder. In another embodiment, the powder composition comprises calcium silicate powder. In a further embodiment, the powder composition comprises calcium aluminate powder. In another embodiment, the powder composition is a cement composition and comprises nanopowders having a grain size of less than 1 micron. Hardened cements are formed from such hydraulic cement compositions, and methods of producing hardened cements, kits, and articles of manufacture employ such hydraulic cement compositions. |
| US08709144B2 |
Precursor sol of aluminum oxide and method for producing optical member
A precursor sol of aluminum oxide includes a solvent and particles containing a hydrolysate of an aluminum compound and/or a condensate of the hydrolysate, in which the particles have an average particle size of 2.5 nm to 7 nm. A method for producing an optical member includes the steps of feeding the precursor sol of aluminum oxide described above onto a base to form an aluminum oxide film and immersing the aluminum oxide film in hot water with a temperature of 60° C. to 100° C. to form a textured structure comprising aluminum oxide boehmite. |
| US08709143B2 |
Water-based ink set for ink-jet recording, ink-jet recording method and ink-jet recording apparatus
A water-based ink set for ink-jet recording includes: a water-based black ink containing a black colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent; and a water-based cyan ink containing a cyan colorant, water, and a water-soluble organic solvent; wherein the black colorant includes a self-dispersible carbon black modified by at least one of a carboxyl group and a sulfo group; and the cyan colorant includes a dye represented by general formula (1): |
| US08709139B2 |
Layer for use in a HEPA filter element
A layer for use in a HEPA filter element solves the problem of disclosing a filter element which satisfies HEPA requirements. Said layer comprises a first support layer (1) for stabilization which contains polypropylene fibers, and a second deposition layer (2) which contains polypropylene fibers, wherein the polypropylene fibers of the deposition layer (2) are at least partially electrostatically charged, and wherein the support layer (1) and the deposition layer (2) are constructed as nonwoven material which is at least partially free of glass fiber. The layer according to the invention can be easily pleated while having excellent filter efficiency. |
| US08709138B2 |
Filter medium for particulate filtration
A filter medium including a carrier layer and a microfiber layer applied thereon is characterized in that, with respect to the aim of providing a filter medium which has a relatively low pressure drop, and at the same time a good fraction separation rate and excellent dust storage capacity, the carrier layer has first fibers, which are designed as endless bicomponent fibers and spunbonded fibers, and the microfiber layer has second fibers, which are designed as endless melt-blown fibers. |
| US08709136B2 |
Adsorption process
A process for separating a first gas, for example CO2, from a feed gas mixture comprising the first gas and a second gas, for example H2, in five or more adsorption beds each containing an adsorbent selective for the first gas. The process comprises subjecting each of the adsorption beds to a repetitive cycle comprising, in sequence, (a) a feed step, (b) a rinse step, (c) a pressure decreasing equalization step, (d) a blowdown step, (e) an evacuation step, (f) a pressure increasing equalization step, and (g) a repressurization step. The feed gas mixture may be a reformate from a steam-hydrocarbon reforming process. |
| US08709134B2 |
Reversible ethylene oxide capture in porous frameworks
This disclosure relates to porous frameworks for ethylene oxide separation and recovery. |
| US08709132B1 |
Separating hydrogen from disassociated water
In some implementations, a system for disassociating water includes a decomposition chamber, a heating element, a plurality of hollow fiber membranes, and a water inlet. The heating element is positioned in the decomposition chamber and configured to generate heat sufficient to dissociate at least a portion of water to hydrogen and oxygen. The plurality of hollow fiber membranes include at least a section of each hollow fiber membrane that passes through the decomposition chamber and has an inner conduit and an outer wall. The inner conduit for each hollow fiber membrane is configured to pass a sweep gas, and the outer wall for each hollow fiber membrane is configured to selectively pass either oxygen or hydrogen. The water inlet connected to the decomposition chamber and configured to pass water vapor into the decomposition chamber. |
| US08709131B2 |
Method and system for the production of direct reduced iron using a synthesis gas with a high carbon monoxide content
Methods and systems for the production of direct reduced iron, including: removing a top gas from a direct reduction furnace; carbon monoxide shifting the top gas using a carbon monoxide shift reactor to form a carbon monoxide shifted top gas having a reduced carbon monoxide content; adding one of a coal gas, a synthesis gas, and an export gas to at least a portion of the carbon monoxide shifted top gas to form a combined gas; removing carbon dioxide from the combined gas using a carbon dioxide removal unit to form a carbon dioxide lean combined gas; and providing the carbon dioxide lean combined gas to the direct reduction furnace as a reducing gas for producing direct reduced iron after heating to reduction temperature. Optionally, the method includes removing carbon dioxide from the top gas using a carbon dioxide removal unit prior to carbon monoxide shifting the top gas. |
| US08709130B2 |
Method for producing metal zirconium industrially and producing low-temperature aluminum electrolyte as byproduct
The invention provides a preparation method for producing metal zirconium industrially and producing low-temperature aluminum electrolyte as byproduct, which comprises the following steps: A) aluminum and fluorozirconate are put in a closed reactor, inert gas is fed into the reactor after evacuation, the reactor is heated up to 780° C. to 1000° C. and then the mixture in the reactor is stirred rapidly; and B) after reaction continues for 4 to 6 hours, the liquid molten at the upper layer is sucked out to obtain low-temperature aluminum electrolyte, and the product at the lower layer is subjected to acid dipping or distillation to remove surface residue to obtain metal zirconium. |
| US08709126B1 |
Generation of metal and alloy micron, submicron, or nano particles in simple, rapid process
Various embodiments provide methods of forming metallic particles or carbon/graphite coated metallic particles with zero-valence from metal precursor compounds by a reductive/expansion synthesis method using nitrogen-hydrogen containing molecules. |
| US08709124B2 |
Sintered sliding member
There is provided a novel sintered sliding member superior in thermal resistance, corrosion resistance and wear resistance. The sintered sliding member of the present invention includes 7.7-30.3% Cu, 2.0-20.0% Sn and 0.3-7.0% boron nitride by mass, with a remainder composed of Ni and unavoidable impurities. The sintered sliding member may further include 0.1-3.0% C or 0.1-0.7% P. A porosity of the sintered sliding member is 5-25%. |
| US08709123B2 |
Degassing of martensitic stainless steel before remelting beneath a layer of slag
The invention relates to a method of fabricating a stainless martensitic steel, comprising a step of electroslag remelting of an ingot of said steel then a step of cooling said ingot. Before the electroslag remelting step, the ingot undergoes vacuum degassing for a time that is sufficient to obtain a hydrogen content in the ingot of less than 3 ppm. |
| US08709117B2 |
Oil separator
A disclosed oil separator provided in a flow path of a refrigerant gas flowing from a compressor to a refrigerator including a filter configured to form an internal space by including a filter material filtering out oil from the refrigerant gas, an upper lid bonded to an upper portion of the filter material, and a lower lid bonded to a lower portion of the filter material; a body accommodating the filter; a gas inlet pipe introducing the refrigerant gas into the internal space; and a gas outlet pipe ejecting the refrigerant gas from which the oil is filtered out by the filter from an upper portion of the body, wherein a lower end of the gas inlet pipe is opened to the internal space at a position higher than the lower lid and lower than a substantial center between the upper lid and the lower lid. |
| US08709116B2 |
Filter device, especially air filter for an internal combustion engine
A filter device (10), especially an air filter for an internal combustion engine, includes a main filter element (22) arranged in a filter housing (12). The main filter element is flown through by a fluid to be filtered. The main filter element (22) is a multi-bellows filter having nested filter bellows (32, 34). Between the filter bellows (32, 34) a flow space (44) for the fluid is formed communicating with an end face of the main filter element (22), wherein each one of the filter bellows (32, 34) is embodied as a star-shaped filter with filter folds arranged in a star shape. On at least one end face of the main filter element (22) there is a seal (36) between one of the filter bellows (32, 34) and the filter housing (12). The main filter element (22) is forced seal-tightly against the filter housing (12) by a lateral insert (38) insertable into a housing receptacle (66) of the filter housing (12), or the main filter element (22) is seal-tightly forced by means of a locking device (74) against the filter housing (12), or the main filter element (22) is sealed by means of a two-component synthetic seal (36, 96, 98) relative to the filter housing (12,104). |
| US08709115B2 |
Cyclone separators and separator apparatuses including the cyclone separators
Cyclone separators and separator devices for separating gas and entrained particles from a particle-contaminated gas stream are provided. The cyclone separator comprises a cyclone body having a first end and a second end with a sidewall extending therebetween. The cyclone body defines a cyclone gas inlet for receiving the particle-contaminated gas stream. A cyclone gas outlet is for discharging the clean gas stream. A centripetal accelerator is proximate the cyclone gas inlet to induce centripetal acceleration of the particle-contaminated gas stream. The sidewall defines a discharge opening between the first end and the second end for discharging separated particles from the cyclone body. The discharge opening has a leading edge and a top edge in relation to a flow path of entrained particles within the particle-contaminated gas stream. The top edge extends at an acute angle relative to the leading edge. |
| US08709111B2 |
Fuel formulations
A diesel fuel formulation with improved lubricity is provided containing (i) a fatty alcohol ester, (ii) an acid-based lubricity additive and (iii) an additional diesel fuel component. The ester (i) has the formula R1-C(O)—O—R2, in which R1 is for example either hydrogen or methyl and R2 is for example a C6 to C14 alkyl group. |
| US08709110B2 |
Use of carotenoid (ester)s
The present invention relates to a composition comprising a) a substance selected from the group of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, isozeaxanthin, isozeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, isozeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and b) a substance selected from the group of alkyl nitrates, nitrooxy esters of alkoxy substituted aliphatic alcohols and organic peroxides; as well as to a change in oxidation reactions of hydrocarbons, especially fuels, admixed to these compositions. The invention also relates to a composition comprising a) a compound selected from the group consisting of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, iso-zeaxanthin, iso-zeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, iso-zeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and c) a fuel. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a composition comprising a) a compound selected from the group consisting of astaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, astaxanthindialkanoylesters, isozeaxanthin, isozeaxanthinmonoalkanoylesters, isozeaxanthindialkanoylesters and mixtures thereof; and b) a compound selected from the group of alkyl nitrates, nitrooxy esters of alkoxy substituted aliphatic alcohols, organic peroxides and mixtures thereof; and d) a stabilizing compound; and e) optionally a solvent. |
| US08709108B2 |
Fuel compositions
There is disclosed a fuel composition comprising (a) a major amount of a middle distillate fuel comprising from about 0.5% to about 30% by weight fatty acid methyl esters, relative to the total amount of the fuel composition; and (b) a minor amount of an additive composition comprising an antioxidant system comprising at least one cyclic amine antioxidant and at least one phenolic antioxidant, and at least one ashless dispersant, wherein said fuel composition demonstrates reduced sediment formation as compared to a fuel composition devoid of the additive composition, and methods of use thereof. |
| US08709107B2 |
Biodiesels useful for improving cloud point
The instant invention pertains to new biodiesels which may be blended with petrodiesel. The biodiesels may comprise a fatty acid C1-C2 alkyl ester and a fatty acid branched C3-C4 alkyl ester. Blends of the novel biodiesel and petrodiesel often exhibit advantageous cloud point properties. |
| US08709106B2 |
Lithium secondary battery anode member and method for manufacturing the same
A lithium secondary battery anode member of the present invention includes a solid electrolyte film formed on a lithium metal film and is capable of suppressing reduction of the solid electrolyte film over a long period of time. In the lithium secondary battery anode member, the lithium metal film and the solid electrolyte film are laminated on a substrate, the solid electrolyte film contains the composition xLi.yP.zS.wO wherein x, y, z, and w satisfy the relations, 0.2≦x≦0.45, 0.1≦y≦0.2, 0.35≦z≦0.6, and 0.03≦w≦0.13, respectively, (x+y+z+w=1), and the main peaks of an X-ray diffraction pattern of the solid electrolyte film measured by a film method using Cu Kα radiation are at 2θ of about 11° and 30° and each have a half width of 10° or less. |
| US08709103B2 |
Sublimation transfer ink, method for producing a dyed article, and dyed article
A sublimation transfer ink to be discharged by an ink jet process contains water, a sublimation dye, and a trehalose-based compound. The amount of the trehalose-based compound in the sublimation transfer ink is preferably in the range of 3% by mass to 20% by mass, both inclusive. |
| US08709102B2 |
Dyeing composition for keratin fibers
Present invention relates to dyeing composition for keratin fibers especially human hair comprising cationic anthrachinone dye. The first object of the present invention is a dyeing composition for keratin fibers especially human hair resulting from mixing of two parts A and B wherein part A has an alkaline pH and comprises at least one cationic antraquinone dye and at least one additional dyestuff selected from direct and oxidative dyes and part B has an acidic pH and comprises at least one oxidizing agent. |
| US08709100B2 |
Hair colorant compositions comprising 2-methoxymethyl-1,4-diaminobenzene and 5-amino-4-chloro-o-cresol, methods, and kits comprising the compositions
A hair colorant composition comprises 5-amino-4-chloro-o-cresol in combination with a 2-methoxymethyl-1,4-diaminobenzene developer. A kit for coloring hair comprises the hair colorant composition. A method of treating hair comprises applying the hair colorant composition to hair. |
| US08709098B2 |
Depilatory composition
A depilatory cream composition comprising, a depilatory active, an emollient selected from at least one of mineral oil, silicone oil and emollient esters, and a silicone wax, a talc and/or polyamide resin. |
| US08709094B2 |
Anti-adhesion sheet
An anti-adhesion sheet for placement upon the anterior wall of a vertebral body, wherein the sheet has a radius of curvature that is less than that of the anterior wall of the vertebral body. |
| US08709092B2 |
Periprosthetic fracture management enhancements
A variety of options for for fracture fixation after total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty. The ability to pre-engineer fracture fixation contingent solutions into femoral or tibial components provides a distinct clinical advantage in the planning and execution for periprosthetic fracture fixation. Methods and apparatus include targeting devices allowing for intimate association of fixed angle locking screws in pre-drilled holes in an existing prosthetic, femoral nail, or other components including additional fixation components. Such apparatus and methods further include alignment devices and other components to allow for ease of repair of periprosthetic fractures utilizing the pre-engineered solutions. |
| US08709084B2 |
Devices for delivering spinal disc implants
A spinal disc implant delivery device includes a blocking component having opposed distal and proximal ends. The proximal end of the blocking component includes an anchor member configured and adapted for movement between an undeployed position in which the anchor member can pass into and out of an opening in a disc annulus, and a deployed position in which the anchor member anchors the blocking component to the opening of the disc annulus. In the deployed position, the anchor member is configured to prevent extrusion of implant material from the opening of the disc annuls. An implant delivery needle is located radially within the blocking component and has opposed proximal and distal ends. The needle is configured to deliver implant material from the distal end thereof to an interior of a disc annulus. |
| US08709083B2 |
Intervertebral fusion implant
The present invention provides an intervertebral implant for implantation in a treated area of an intervertebral space between vertebral bodies of a spine. The implant includes a spacer portion having an inferior and superior surface, wherein the inferior and superior surfaces each have a contact area capable of engaging with anatomy in the treated area, and the inferior and superior surfaces define a through-hole extending through the spacer body. The present invention further provides screw holes extending from a side portion to the inferior and superior surfaces of the spacer portion and a plate portion coupled to the spacer portion through a coupling means, wherein the plate portion contains screws holes for receiving screws. A screw back out prevention mechanism adapted on the plate portion and prevents the back out of screws from the screw holes. |
| US08709081B2 |
Cellular scaffold
A cellular scaffold that is suitable for tissue regeneration, cell culture and in vitro assays. The invention relates to a layered cell scaffold that is seeded with mesenchymal and ectodermal cells. The layered cellular scaffold comprises an inoculum of mesenchymal cells and ectodermal cells positioned between two opposing scaffolds in a sandwich configuration. The layered cell scaffold provides a functional skin equivalent that is suitable for transplantation and in vitro cell-based assays. |
| US08709080B2 |
Coated devices comprising a fiber mesh imbedded in the device walls
Devices used in the management of bodily airways including bronchial and tracheal stents, bronchial Y-tubes, bronchial TY-tubes, nasal septal buttons, and nasal stents. The present invention also relates to devices used to manage the esophagus, such as salivary bypass tubes. These devices may comprise a fiber mesh imbedded in the walls of the device in order to provide integrity to the device wall and permit anchoring and suturing of the device. |
| US08709079B2 |
IOL with varying correction of chromatic aberration
An ophthalmic lens includes an optical filter operable to filter out at least visible light having a wavelength less than 450 nm. The lens also includes a first diffractive structure adapted to produce a focus for visible light in a first wavelength range above 550 nm and to reduce longitudinal chromatic aberration to less than one diopter for incoming visible light in the first wavelength range. The lens also includes a second diffractive structure outside the first diffractive structure in a radial direction and adapted to produce a focus for visible light in a second wavelength range between 450 nm and 550 nm. The second diffractive structure is also adapted to reduce longitudinal chromatic aberration for incoming visible light in the second wavelength range to less than one diopter while allowing longitudinal chromatic aberration in the first wavelength range in an amount greater than the first diffractive structure. |
| US08709076B1 |
Two-piece prosthetic valve
A two-piece prosthetic valve having first and second members, a first end of the first member being sized and configured to receive a second end of the second member therein, the second end of the second member being attached to the first member at at least one commissure connection point to form at least one leaflet therein. |
| US08709074B2 |
Method and device for treatment of mitral insufficiency
A device for treatment of mitral annulus dilation is disclosed, wherein the device comprises two states. In a first of these states the device is insertable into the coronary sinus and has a shape of the coronary sinus. When positioned in the coronary sinus, the device is transferable to the second state assuming a reduced radius of curvature, whereby the radius of curvature of the coronary sinus and the radius of curvature as well as the circumference of the mitral annulus is reduced. |
| US08709073B2 |
Implant and method for production of the same
One example embodiment of the present invention relates to an implant, particularly an intraluminal endoprosthesis, having a body that contains metallic material, preferably iron. The implant body has a first layer with at least one ionic compound that contains ions of at least one halogen, particularly chloride ions and/or bromide ions, on at least part of its surface. Furthermore, a method for the production of such an implant is described. |
| US08709072B2 |
Endoprosthesis
A stent includes a MOF which adjusts pore size upon desorption or adsorption of organic molecules. |
| US08709071B1 |
Stent with preferential coating
This invention relates to stents, a type of implantable medical device, with an antiproliferative coating and a prohealing luminal coating and methods of fabricating stents with an antiproliferative coating and a prohealing luminal coating. |
| US08709070B2 |
Bioabsorbable scaffold with particles providing delayed acceleration of degradation
Methods of controlling the degradation profile of a biodegradable stent scaffolding are disclosed. A bioabsorbable scaffold having a plurality of particles incorporated into the scaffolding that accelerate the absorption of the scaffolding after an induction time during degradation is disclosed. |
| US08709062B2 |
Stent delivery system having stent securement apparatus
Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include an elongate shaft including a first tubular member and a second tubular member. A balloon may be coupled to the shaft. A first member may be coupled to the first tubular member and positioned within the balloon. A second member may be coupled to the first tubular member and positioned within the balloon. A medical implant may be coupled to the shaft and positioned adjacent to the balloon. |
| US08709059B1 |
Suturing an expanding, contracting graft tube in artery segment previously occluded
A spiral wire with shape memory wound to a small circumference for percutaneous introduction into an artery lumen has holding balloons gripping each end to control unwinding that increases and decreases circumference of a concentric graft tube against artery wall without under-sizing that creates dangerous gaps or over-sizing that promotes occlusion re-growth. Inflating holding balloons pushes ends of a plurality of tunnel arcs located at 2 mm intervals in rim around balloon circumferences tightly against graft tube whereupon push-rods within tunnel arcs simultaneously push out sharp circular sutures of memory material that return to original circular shape as they pierce and join graft tube and artery wall. |
| US08709057B2 |
Laser system for non ablative treatment of mucosa tissue
A laser system has a laser source for generating a laser beam, a control unit, and a hand piece for manually guiding the laser beam onto a target area. A wavelength (λ) of the laser beam is in a range from above 1.9 μm to 11.0 μm inclusive. The laser system is adapted for a thermal, non ablative treatment of mucosa tissue by the laser beam such, that the laser source generates the laser beam in single pulses with a pulse duration (tp) in a range from 1.0 μs, inclusive, to 1.0 sec, inclusive, and that a fluence of each of the single pulses on the target area of the mucosa tissue is in a range from 0.2 J/cm2, inclusive, to 2.5 J/cm2, inclusive, and preferably in a range from 1.40 J/cm2, inclusive, to 1.95 J/cm2, inclusive. |
| US08709054B2 |
Implantable vertebral frame systems and related methods for spinal repair
A system for performing surgical repair of the spine includes a distractor and a permanently implanted bone plate system. A surgical repair methodology is also disclosed that employs an implanted bone plate system with a substantially void internal volume which is attached to adjacent vertebrae subsequent to the distraction and adjustment of curvature of the vertebrae and prior to the excision of disc and/or end plate tissue through the bone plate. The device further facilitates the subsequent delivery of an interbody repair device for the purpose of either fusion or dynamic stabilization, such as by disc arthroplasty. The plate may be permanently implanted, such as when a fusion between the attached vertebral bodies is desired, but it need not be permanently implanted. |
| US08709053B2 |
Orthopedic fastener blocking system
In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides an orthopedic fastener blocking system that allows for a desirable number of fasteners to be used with an orthopedic device even when the orthopedic device is too small to accommodate a desired number of traditionally located and oriented fasteners or when the accessibility to the device is reduced so that addressing a desired number of traditionally located and oriented fasteners is not possible. The system includes an orthopedic implant and at least first and second fasteners where one of the first and second fasteners prevents the other of the first and second fasteners from uninstalling when the first and second fasteners are in the installed position. |
| US08709048B2 |
Rod system for gradual dynamic spinal fixation
A rod system includes two rods each with a head and a shaft, two elastic members each fitted around one shaft against one head, and a case defining a first inner portion, a second inner portion, and a third inner portion in communication with the first and the second inner portions. A first rod with a first elastic member is seated in the first inner portion so the first elastic member abuts the bottom of first inner portion and the first head protrudes into the third inner portion. A second rod and a second elastic member is seated in the second portion so the second elastic member abuts the bottom of the second inner portion and the second head protrudes into the third inner portion and abuts the first head. |
| US08709045B1 |
Joint fusing system
A surgical reamer for cutting an opening in a facet joint for placement of a dowel between the sides of the facet joint to immobilize the joint and create a fusion. The reamer is used with a set of surgical instruments to prepare facet joints for insertion of dowels. The reamer creates a bone shelf above the opening for the dowel to prevent migration of the dowel. The reamer is configured with a flat profile in one plane to allow insertion into the facet joint and the profile of the dowel in the perpendicular plane to create a shape corresponding to the dowel when rotated. The neck of the reamer is smaller in diameter at the coronal end to allow creation of a bone shelf in the facet above the opening for the dowel. The bone shelf resists migration of the dowel out of the prepared opening in the facet. |
| US08709033B2 |
Trigger activated lancet
A lancet device including a housing and a lancet structure having a puncturing tip maintained within an interior cavity of the housing. The device incorporates a bow spring which cooperates with the lancet structure within the housing, and a trigger which extends laterally through and into the housing. The bow spring is resistive to movement, and therefore maintains the puncturing tip in a retracted position within the housing. Lateral movement of the trigger into the housing, such as through a pivoting trigger operation, biases the bow spring against this resistive to deflect the bow spring and extend the puncturing tip through the forward end of the housing to achieve a puncturing position. |
| US08709030B1 |
Explanting implantable devices
Systems and techniques for explanting implantable devices are described. In one aspect, a device includes an explant tool configured to explant an implantable device from a body. The explant tool includes an elongate shank comprising a forward portion defining a longitudinal passage and a front tip attached to the forward portion and defining an opening to the longitudinal passage defined by the forward portion. The front tip comprises a slanted surface that slopes in a direction so as to spread tissue during forward penetration of the front tip into the body. |
| US08709022B2 |
Method and apparatus for passing a suture
A suture passing instrument including an operation handle, a needle member, and a suture holder assembly. The operation handle has at least one actuator movable between a first position and a second position. The needle member extends from the operation handle. The needle member has a curved end portion and defines an eyelet extending therethrough. The suture holder assembly extends from the operation handle and has a movable suture carrier at a distal end configured to hold a suture. The movable suture carrier has a suture pusher telescopically and movably received in the movable suture carrier. The suture carrier is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The suture pusher is movable beyond the suture carrier to carry the suture through the eyelet. |
| US08709020B2 |
Suturing device and method for sealing an opening in a blood vessel or other biological structure
A suturing device allows a physician to remotely seal an incision in a blood vessel or other biological tissue. The device comprises an elongated tubular body having a distal portion which is adapted to be inserted percutaneously through the incision and into the blood vessel. The distal portion has first and second retractable arms which extend from the distal portion of the body and releasably hold a suture within the blood vessel. First and second retractable needles, each of which is configured to catch the suture from a respective arm, are provided along the body proximal to the retractable arms. The arms and the needles are remotely movable by the physician using a handle or other control mechanism provided at a distal portion of the device. In operation, the arms are initially deployed within the blood vessel to hold the ends of the suture beyond the circumference of the tubular body. The needles are then deployed from and then retracted into the body, during which time the needles pierce the vessel wall on opposite sides of the incision, release the suture ends from the retractable arms, and pull the suture through the vessel wall. The device is particularly useful for closing an incision in an artery following a catheterization procedure. In one embodiment, the catheter sheath introducer (CSI) used to perform the catheterization procedure is left in place during the suturing procedure. |
| US08709017B2 |
Mounting for a bone drill and bone drill mounting system
A mounting device for arranging a medical apparatus on a bone includes a fastening portion for fixing the mounting device to the bone. The fastening portion is configured to interface with the bone and operative to fix the mounting device to the bone using a vacuum. |
| US08709014B2 |
Device, kit, and a method for handling a medical implant
A medical device for handling an implant, the medical device comprising a loading section adapted to be loaded with an insert element to be inserted into a hole formed in an implant, and a guiding section adapted to be guided by a pin inserted into the hole formed in the implant for guidedly inserting the insert element into the hole formed in the implant. |
| US08709013B2 |
Cannulated drill bit with radially offset cutting edge
A drill bit has a cylindrical proximal end coupled to a driving device with a central axis of rotation about which the proximal end rotates. A distal portion of the drill bit is a cutting device attached to the proximal end in such a way that it extends outside the periphery of the proximal end for a distance less than the entirety of the circumference of the proximal end. A guide wire extends through a passageway in the bit and is provided to create a pilot hole before the distal portion enlarges that hole. With this configuration of the cutting device, it is possible to position the cutting device in the distal portion in a direction facing away from the medial femoral condyle so that the proximal end of the drill bit can slide past the medial femoral condyle, with its axis of rotation much closer to that condyle than would be the case in prior art drill bits. |
| US08709012B2 |
Surgical cutting tool
Surgical cutting tool for manufacturing of a recess in a firm body tissue, in particular in a bone and/or in a cartilage, with a milling range rotatable around a central axis of rotation, with an outside lateral surface and an internal area substantially defined by the lateral surface and turned away from the worked on body tissue. The lateral surface is formed with at least two machining cutting edges, which proceed at the lateral surface from a machining center to a machining edge of the milling range and which are in particular spiral curved. Apertures are arranged adjacent to the cutting edges for the transport of the cutting splinters into the internal area, whereby the cutting edges are interrupted by means of recesses in such a way that the cutting edges are formed by individually cutting elements. |
| US08709008B2 |
Visual electrode ablation systems
Visual electrode ablation systems are described herein which include a deployment catheter and an attached imaging hood deployable into an expanded configuration. In use, the imaging hood is placed against or adjacent to a region of tissue to be imaged in a body lumen that is normally filled with an opaque bodily fluid such as blood. A translucent or transparent fluid, such as saline, can be pumped into the imaging hood until the fluid displaces any blood, thereby leaving a clear region of tissue to be imaged via an imaging element in the deployment catheter. An electric current may be passed through the fluid such that it passes directly to the tissue region being imaged and the electrical energy is conducted through the fluid without the need for a separate ablation probe or instrument to ablate the tissue being viewed. |
| US08709006B2 |
System and method for applying plasma sparks to tissue
A pulse delivery system for producing a spark in tissue is disclosed. The system can include at least two electrodes having sharp surface features, where the at least two electrodes are electrically isolated from one another. The sharp features of the electrodes can be separated by a distance of about 2 to 20 mm. The system can also include a pulse generator for delivering pulsed voltage differences between the at least two electrodes. The pulsed voltage differences can producing a voltage difference ranging from about 2.5 kV to about 35 kV for a duration of about 50 ns to 3 μs. The system can include a controller for determining whether the plurality of pulsed voltage differences produced a spark between the at least two electrodes. A method of producing a spark in tissue for both therapeutic and cosmetic, i.e., non-therapeutic, applications is also disclosed. |
| US08709002B2 |
Ophthalmic system for shape determination and modification
Systems and methods for modifying an eye including a light source with light elements, a photodetector producing a signal representing images of the light elements and corresponding to locations on an ocular surface, an optical system directing light from the light elements reflected by the ocular surface onto the photodetector, a memory including code for processing the signal, and a processor for executing the code and outputting shape data for use in calculating a treatment plan for the eye. The code includes instructions for determining the shape data based on a combination of zonal reconstruction and polynomial fitting using the plurality of images. |
| US08708998B2 |
Enclosure-based reduced pressure treatment system
A reduced pressure treatment appliance is provided for enclosing and providing reduced pressure treatment to a portion of a body of a patient. The reduced pressure treatment appliance may be used to treat wounds and other conditions, such as lymphedema, varicose veins, venous insufficiency and stasis, and other infirmities. In some embodiments, the appliance comprises an enclosure that encloses the portion of the body to be treated for purposes of applying a reduced pressure to the enclosed portion of the body. In other embodiments, the wound treatment appliance also includes a vacuum system to supply reduced pressure to the portion of the body to be treated in the volume under the enclosure. In yet other embodiments, the treatment appliance also includes wound packing means to prevent overgrowth of the wound or to encourage growth of wound tissue into an absorbable matrix comprising the wound packing means. In still other embodiments, a suction bulb may be used to provide a source of reduced pressure to an enclosure that encloses the portion of the body to be treated. Finally, methods are provided for using various embodiments of the treatment appliance. |
| US08708996B2 |
Methods and device for synergistic mitigation of reperfusion injury after an ischemic event
A method for synergistic mitigation of reperfusion injury after an ischemia event in a subject. |
| US08708995B2 |
Methods and kits for volumetric distribution of pharmaceutical agents via the vascular adventitia and microcirculation
Methods and kits for delivering pharmaceutical agents to the adventitia and other regions outside the external elastic lamina (EEL) surrounding a blood vessel utilize a catheter having a needle. The needle is positioned in up to 5 mm beyond the EEL and delivers an amount of pharmaceutical agent sufficient to circumferentially permeate around the blood vessel and, in many cases, extend longitudinally and radially along the blood vessel. Confirmation that a delivery aperture of the needle lies beyond the EEL may be required before delivering the pharmaceutical agent. |
| US08708989B2 |
Tampon comprising a plurality of strips or cords
A tampon that has a body including a first end, a second end, a center portion, a longitudinal axis and a radial axis. The body includes a plurality of cords or strips joined at the first end, the second end, the center portion or both the first and second ends. The plurality of strips and cords being selected from the group being selected from the group consisting of, films, woven materials, absorbent foams, superabsorbent polymers, and mixtures thereof. |
| US08708987B2 |
Ostomy appliance with moldable adhesive
A body fitment for an ostomy appliance comprises an adhesive wafer including a moldable region shapable by the user. A removable release liner covering an external adhesive surface of the wafer is configured to permit molding of the moldable region by manually manipulating the adhesive through the release liner, and/or with removable segments. In an alternative form, an interior release liner is removable through the entrance aperture of the wafer, by pulling on a grip portion that protrudes through the entrance aperture. In an alternative form, an ostomy pouch includes a finger pocket in a front pouch wall, for permitting insertion of a finger tip for molding the moldable region of an adhesive wafer that is secured around a stomal aperture in a rear pouch wall. |
| US08708984B2 |
Reduced-pressure wound treatment systems and methods employing manifold structures
Manifold structures, systems, and methods are disclosed that include using longitudinal members and one or more shaped projections to cause microstrain at a tissue site. In one instance a manifold structure includes a plurality of spaced longitudinal members and at least one shaped projection coupled to at least one of the plurality of longitudinal members for creating a microstrain at a tissue site. The at least one shaped projection includes a columnar member having a distal end and includes an enlarged member positioned at the distal end of the columnar member. The columnar member has a first outer diameter (D1) and the enlarged member has a second outer diameter (D2). The second outer diameter of the enlarged member is greater than the first outer diameter of the columnar member (D2>D1). Other systems, methods, and structures are presented. |
| US08708983B2 |
Antiseptic applicator
An applicator assembly includes a body having a proximal and a distal end, a container slidably coupled to the body, a valve cap coupled to the container, and an application member attached to the distal end, wherein an interior of the container is placed in fluid communication with the application member by way of a fluid conduit that is only accessible when one of the body and the container are axially translated in an opposite direction away from each other. |
| US08708982B2 |
Wound protection and therapy system
A method and apparatus for protecting and treating wounds are provided. A housing is adapted to be adhesively secured over the wound of an injured or infected person. The housing has an opening for access to the wound, and is further provided with inlet and outlet ports for the application of therapeutic materials. There is particularly provided a program for a closed looped system for such wound care. Additionally, the invention provides for a protective and treating cover for the eye, which can be either opaque or translucent. Additionally, a mechanism for accurately depositing eye drops without risking injury to the eye is also provided. |
| US08708974B2 |
Cylinder-piston unit of a disposable injector having increased operational safety
The end face of a cylinder-piston unit has a press-in area, engaging around the mouth, and a press-on area, surrounding the press-in area. The press-in area comprises an inner web, delimiting the mouth, and an outer web. The webs delimit a recess, which surrounds the inner web and of which the depth measured parallel to the center axis of the cylinder-piston unit is at least a quarter of its width in a plane oriented normal thereto. The press-on area, at least during an injection, is offset counter to the injection direction relative to the end face of the press-in area. Moreover, the surface of the press-on area projected into a plane normal to the center axis is at least as large as the surface of the press-in area projected into the same plane. |
| US08708970B2 |
Injection needle assembly
An injection needle assembly is presented having a tubular needle holder with distal and proximal engagement means, a tubular cap having proximal inner and outer engagement means, a tubular needle cover having a first engagement means arranged to cooperate with the proximal engagement means, and second engagement means arranged to cooperate with the proximal outer engagement means of the cap. The needle cover is arranged to be displaced from a first position wherein the second engagement means and the proximal outer engagement means prevents the needle cover and the needle holder to be axially displaced by a linear displacement, to a second position wherein the needle cover and the needle holder are distally displaced. The proximal inner engagement means of the cap and the distal engagement means of the needle holder prevents the needle holder to be proximally displaced but allows the needle cover to be distally displaced. |
| US08708969B2 |
Safety device actuation system
The present disclosure relates to a safety needle assembly that includes a syringe and a safety mechanism. The safety mechanism includes a housing defining an internal cavity, a shield member at least partially disposed within the internal cavity, and first and second locking members that are configured to selectively engage and maintain the shield member in one or more predetermined positions. The locking members are movable between a locked position, in which the locking members are in engagement with the shield member to substantially prevent axial movement thereof, and a release position, in which the locking members are disengaged from the shield member to permit axial movement thereof. The first and second locking members each include biasing members. The biasing member of the each locking member is positioned to cooperate with the other locking member to normally bias the locking members towards the locked position. |
| US08708961B2 |
Apparatus for infusing liquid to a body
An infusion device having a housing with a reusable control portion and an expendable reservoir portion includes a precise drive for an infusion pump. The drive includes a piezoelectric bender assembly, a limiter and at least one contact stop. The piezoelectric bender assembly includes a cantilevered piezoelectric bender having an member of predetermined thickness fixed to move with the second end. A limiter of dimensionally stable material including a gap and at least a first mounting hole extending to the gap. The member of predetermined thickness extends into the gap. A first contact stop is positioned in the gap to define a critical gap distance limiting movement of the member of predetermined thickness in the gap. A base has a mounting surface, a port through the base and extending to the mounting surface. The port includes a first length having a smaller diameter at the mounting surface and a second length displaced from the mounting surface and having a larger diameter. A rigid cannula extends from the base through the port. The rigid cannula has a diameter smaller than the smaller diameter of the port, and the first length of the port has an annular open gap for lateral or pivotal movement of the rigid cannula. A mount of elastomeric material in the length having the larger diameter mounts the rigid cannula. The cannula includes hydrogel material in a desiccated state coating the surface of the cannula, including the beveled end, which rehydrates upon placement in the patient. |
| US08708953B2 |
Steerable medical delivery devices and methods of use
Steerable medical delivery devices and their methods of use. |
| US08708950B2 |
Medical treatment system and methods using a plurality of fluid lines
A medical treatment system, such as peritoneal dialysis system, may include control and other features to enhance patient comfort and ease of use. For example, a peritoneal dialysis system may include patient line state detector for detecting whether a patient line is primed before it is to be connected to the patient. The patient line state detector can also the ability to detect whether a patient line has been properly mounted for priming. Both patient line presence/absence and fill state can be determined using an optical system, e.g., one that employs a single optical sensor. |
| US08708946B2 |
Access disconnection systems using conductive contacts
An extracorporeal blood machine includes a blood circuit; an access device enabling the blood circuit to be connected to a patient; first and second coupling devices for connecting to first and second tubes of the circuit; first and second electrodes held by the first and second coupling devices to contact blood flowing through the blood circuit, the electrodes enabling an electrical signal to be injected into the circuit; first and second contact members contacting the first and second electrodes, wherein at least one of the coupling devices includes a stem portion enabling at least one of the first and second contact members to contact at least one of the first and second electrodes, respectively, on an outer portion of the at least one electrode without disturbing blood flowing through the coupling device; and electronics coupled operably to the first and second contact members for applying the electrical signal. |
| US08708945B2 |
Method for suppressing surgical site infection and column to be used for the method
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for suppressing surgical site infections (SSI) that have occurred at extremely high incidence rates at the time of surgical operations and particularly surgical operations on digestive system organs, and to provide a column to be used for the method. According to the present invention, a method is provided for suppressing surgical site infections, which comprises the steps of: (a) administering a chemotherapeutic drug for treating and/or preventing a surgical site infection; and (b) collecting blood from a surgical subject and removing leukocytes that comprise neutrophils from the blood during or within 24 hours after surgical operation, and then returning the blood from which the leukocytes have been removed to the surgical subject. The present invention also provides a column for blood circulation which is filled with a carrier having affinity for leukocytes comprising neutrophils, which is used for suppressing a surgical site infection during or within 24 hours after surgical operation on a digestive system organ. |
| US08708939B2 |
Pronation/supination orthosis and method
An orthosis for supination and/or pronation of a forearm of a wearer, the orthosis including a base, an upper arm support coupled to the base and configured to secure an upper arm of the wearer, a rotation assembly coupled to the base and including an output member rotatable relative to the base within a rotation plane, and a forearm support member coupled to the output member of the rotation assembly and configured to releasably engage a wrist and the forearm of the wearer. |
| US08708937B2 |
High frequency chest wall oscillation system
A high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) therapy system includes an inflatable garment, an air pulse generator operable to produce oscillating pressure pulses that are communicated to the inflatable garment, at least one hose to interconnect the air pulse generator with the inflatable garment and to communicate the oscillatory pressure pulses from the air pulse generator to the inflatable garment. The air pulse generator is sized, shaped, and configured so as to occupy a volume no greater than about 1,200 in.3 and to weigh no more than about 17 lbs. |
| US08708936B2 |
Therapeutic system
The therapeutic system provides an oscillatory, pivoting table for applying motion-induced therapeutic sensory stimuli to a user. Further, therapeutic audio and visual output may be provided to the user during the application of the therapeutic sensory stimuli. The therapeutic system includes a base having an upper vertex. A tabletop is pivotally mounted to the upper vertex of the base, and the upper surface of the tabletop is adapted for supporting the user. At least one piston is provided, with the lower end thereof being mounted within the base, and the upper end thereof being pivotally mounted to a lower surface of the tabletop in order to pivot the table with respect to the base in a controlled, oscillatory manner. Oscillation of the table at a user-controlled frequency and angle induces the therapeutic sensory stimuli in the user. |
| US08708935B2 |
System and method for variable depth ultrasound treatment
A non-invasive variable depth ultrasound treatment method and system comprises a variable depth transducer system configured for providing ultrasound treatment to a patient. An exemplary variable depth transducer system can comprise a transducer configured to provide treatment to more than one region of interest, such as between a deep treatment region of interest and a superficial region of interest, and/or a subcutaneous region of interest. The variable depth transducer can comprise a transduction element having a piezoelectrically active layer, matching layers and/or other materials for generating radiation or acoustical energy. The variable depth transducer may be configured to operate at moderate frequencies within the range from approximately 750 kHz to 20 MHz or more. In addition, the transduction element may be configured with a variable depth device comprising one or more materials configured to allow for control and focusing/defocusing of the acoustic energy to more than one region of interest. |
| US08708927B2 |
Apparatus and method for medical measurement
A measuring device for medical applications in at least one example embodiment includes a first part provided with measuring means for measuring data of a patient, and a second part provided with communication means for sending the data. In at least one example embodiment, the second part is releasably connected to the first part. |
| US08708926B2 |
Double temperature sensor
A double temperature sensor is provided for determining the body temperature. The sensor includes at least a first temperature sensor element for measuring a near-surface temperature of the ambient air and a second temperature sensor element for measuring a temperature of the skin surface. The first and the second temperature sensor elements are arranged in a sensor block. A holding element surrounds the sensor block at least partially. An adhesive element fixes the holding element on the skin surface. A spring element acts on the sensor block and provides a spring force directed in the direction of the skin surface. |
| US08708924B2 |
Method and apparatus for management of heart failure hospitalization
A hospitalization management system including a heart failure analyzer that receives diagnostic data including at least sensor data representative of one or more physiological signals sensed from a hospitalized patient using one or more sensors and assesses risk of rehospitalization for the patient using the diagnostic data. The outcome of the risk assessment is used during and following the patient's hospitalization for reducing the risk of rehospitalization. |
| US08708923B2 |
Wearable system for monitoring physiological signals
A wearable system for monitoring a plurality of physiological signals is provided. The wearable system includes at least one sensor producing the physiological signals associated with a patient. A processor unit receives the physiological signals from the at least one sensor. The processor unit analyzes the physiological signals to determine the occurrence of a triggered event and produces at least one output signal identifying the triggered event. A transmission unit receives the at least one output signal and prepares for transmission of the at least one output signal. |
| US08708922B2 |
Electrically isolated catheter with wireless sensors
A local power-delivery/data-reception unit is installed within an insertion end of a sealed catheter. The local power-delivery/data-reception unit wirelessly powers a separately sealed sensor that is attached to the insertion end and configured for wirelessly sending a data signal to the local power-delivery/data-reception unit. The catheter may further feature a remote power-delivery/data-reception unit disposed within the handle and configured for wirelessly communicating with the local power-delivery/data-reception unit and a controller for controlling the sensor. |
| US08708921B2 |
Method and device for detecting and assessing reactive hyperemia using segmental plethysmography
A method for measuring reactive hyperemia in a subject is disclosed. The method includes performing a first segmental cuff plethysmography to generate a baseline arterial compliance curve and/or a baseline pressure-area (P-A) curve, performing a second segmental cuff plethysmography to generate a hyperemic arterial compliance curve and/or a hyperemic P-A curve, and calculating an area between the baseline and the hyperemic curves. The size of the area can be used as an indication of endothelial dysfunction (ED) and ED-related diseases. |
| US08708919B1 |
System and method for remotely sensing vital signs
In accordance with the present disclosure, a method for sensing vital signs of a victim includes positioning a transmitter pod near a victim. The transmitter pod transmits a source signal. A reflected signal is created by reflecting the source signal off the victim. The source signal is directly received by a receiver that is remote from the victim and the transmitter pod. The receiver also receives the reflected signal, which is compared with the source signal. At least one vital sign is determined based on this comparison, and this vital sign is displayed. The vital sign may be the victim's heart rate or respiration rate. |
| US08708916B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic appartus with CMUT bias voltage discharge system
An ultrasound diagnostic system includes a connection section for detachably connecting an ultrasound device mounted with a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (C-MUT) and a transmission signal generation section that generates a transmission signal using a connector provided in the ultrasound device and a connector receiver provided in the ultrasound observation apparatus, a discharge section for discharging the charge applied to the C-MUT, a lock mechanism that keeps the connection section in a locked state and a released state and a switching section arranged on a signal line between the C-MUT and the ultrasound observation apparatus, wherein when a predetermined mounting state is set, the C-MUT is electrically connected to the transmission signal generation section via the signal line, and through switching by the switching section after an operation of unlocking the lock mechanism, a state is set in which the charge of the C-MUT of the ultrasound device is discharged. |
| US08708915B2 |
Ultrasonic probe
The invention provides an ultrasonic probe having a frame to constitute a part of a cubicle, a motor fixed on the frame, a first arm with one end fixed on a rotating shaft of the motor, and a second arm with one end rotatably coupled with the other end of the first arm via a coupling shaft and with the other end having an ultrasonic element mounted thereon. The second arm has a lengthwise long groove and is slidably engaged with the fixed shaft of the frame in the direction of length. The length from an end of the second arm where the ultrasonic element is mounted on the coupling shaft is designed to be longer than the length from the rotating shaft to the coupling shaft, and further, to be longer than the length from the rotating shaft to the fixed shaft. |
| US08708912B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and method of displaying ultrasound image
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes an unit 7 for forming time series tomographic images on the basis of a reflection echo signals received by ultrasound probe 2, an unit 8 for obtaining the elasticities of body tissue on the basis of the reflection echo signals and forming elasticity images on times series, an unit 9 for forming a superimposition image on time series by superposing the tomographic image on the elasticity image, an unit 43 for inputting an instruction for controlling superimposition image formation, and an unit 10 for displaying the superimposition image. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus further includes a freezing control portion (7, 8) for outputting an image, as a frozen image, selected in response to a freezing instruction for freezing the display operation on time series of any of the tomographic image or the elasticity image input into the input unit to the superimposition image forming unit. |
| US08708910B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus and ultrasonic diagnosis method
An ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus comprising: an ultrasonic probe which includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers which transmit ultrasonic waves to an object, receive the ultrasonic waves reflected by the object, and output ultrasonic detection signals; a reception time calculating device which calculates at least one of a reception time and a reception wave at each of elements corresponding to lattice points set in a shallower region than a region of interest in the object; an image generating device which generates an image at a lattice point in the region of interest, based on a hypothetical sound velocity set in the region of interest and the calculated one of the reception time and the reception wave; an image analyzing device which analyzes the generated image; and a local sound velocity calculating device which calculates a local sound velocity in the region of interest, based on a result of the image analysis. |
| US08708906B1 |
Method for the prevention of dementia and Alzheimer's disease
A method for the prevention of dementia is provided including the steps of testing, in a client, for a dementia risk factors (including those related to brain tissue, atrial fibrillation, hypercoaguable state, LDL cholesterol, carotid artery evaluation, tobacco use, hypertension, and inflammation evaluation), determining a score for each of the risk factors tested, wherein each score is based on a continuous scale from a low number to a high number, wherein a low number corresponds to a relatively low likelihood of dementia risk and a high number corresponds to a relatively low likelihood of dementia risk, applying all of the scores obtained to an equation that yields a resulting value proportional to an overall risk of dementia, and providing dementia risk reduction advice to the client to lower the scores for each of the components. |
| US08708902B2 |
Catheter configuration interface and related system
A system for implementing a procedure for the diagnosis or treatment of tissue in a body is provided. The system includes an electronic control unit configured to generate a graphical user interface on a display. The interface depicts an image of the tissue. The unit is further configured to receive one or more inputs regarding target locations on the tissue for diagnosis or treatment. The electronic control unit identifies a catheter for use in the procedure and determines configurations for a distal end of the catheter at each target location. The unit superimposes representations of the distal end of the catheter having the determined configurations on the image of the tissue at the target locations. The unit may also generate control signals to guide the distal end of the catheter to the target locations and to assume the determined configurations at each location. |
| US08708899B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. |
| US08708897B2 |
Tunneling system
A tunneling system for use with a catheter includes an elongate tunneling member defining a longitudinal axis along at least a portion of a longitudinal length thereof. The elongate member has a first end and a second end. The tunneling system further includes a connector configured for releasably engaging the second end of the elongate tunneling member to the catheter. |
| US08708893B2 |
Structural unit, endoscope, and adhering method
The present invention provides a structural unit, an endoscope and an adhering method that suppress deterioration in adhesive strength of an adhesive that adheres plural structural members that structure the endoscope. An imaging unit 68 side of an adhesive 88 is covered by a first moisture-proof coating 91, and an obverse side of the adhesive 88 is covered by a second moisture-proof coating 92. Due thereto, in autoclave sterilization processing or the like, even if moisture passes along a wire portion 86 and penetrates into the imaging unit 68, penetration of the moisture into the adhesive is suppressed by the first moisture-proof coating 91. Due thereto, deterioration in adhesive strength of the adhesive, that adheres plural structural members of the imaging unit 68, can be suppressed. |
| US08708889B2 |
Jawed trocar assembly
A trocar assembly is presented herein. The trocar assembly can have a hollow elongate member having a first end and a second end. The first end of the hollow elongate member can be open. The first end also can allows an implement to be inserted. The trocar assembly also includes a jaw hingedly coupled to the second end of the hollow elongate member. |
| US08708880B2 |
Three-layered containers and methods of making the same
A thermally insulated container is disclosed. The container comprises an inner layer having a bottom portion with a bottom closure attached to the bottom portion. The container further comprises an outer layer wrapped around the inner layer. The container further comprises an insulating middle layer sandwiched between the inner layer and the outer layer. The middle layer has at least one aperture formed therein. |
| US08708877B2 |
Drum rotating device
A drum rotating device enables a drum and a driving device mounted in the drum to be supported with a simple structure and which reduces the possibility that the driving shaft of the driving device may be offset with respect to the rotation axis of the drum. The drum rotation device includes the drum and the driving device arranged to drive and rotate the drum. The drum includes an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder arranged inside the outer cylinder coaxially therewith, and a support wall arranged to connect the outer and inner cylinders to each other at an approximately intermediate portion in the axial direction. The outer and inner cylinders are substantially cylindrical. The driving device is fixed to a frame at one axial end. The driving shaft of the driving device extends through the drum and is rotatably supported by the frame through a bearing at the other axial end. The driving shaft is arranged to extend through the inner cylinder, thereby being fixedly attached the drum so that the drum and the driving shaft can rotate together. |
| US08708872B2 |
Adjustable assembly for exercise apparatus
Exercise apparatus and method with selectively variable stabilization enabling a user to progressively increase his/her core body muscular strength. In various embodiments, the exercise apparatus includes a resistance cabling system providing a user defined line of motion, and a partial stabilizer pad being adjustably positionable offset from the line of motion, wherein the user's core body is positionable against the pad and required to resist the torque created by the offset. The user can progressively increase the distance between the line of motion and partial stabilizer pad, in order to progressively increase the force which the user's core body must resist to maintain an upright stature. In this way, the user can progressively, over time, increase his or her core body strength. A vertically and rotatably adjustable handle/arm assembly, resistance cabling and pulley assembly, and an overall exercise apparatus having a relatively small footprint but allowing multiple variable exercise routines, are also provided. |
| US08708870B2 |
Weight plate with center post locking cartridge
A weight plate for use with physical fitness weightlifting equipment so that the weight plate may be coupled to other weight plates and lifted together in a stack. Each weight plate includes a pivotal switch arm including a first end at which to receive a pushing force to cause the switch arm to rotate relative to the weight plate and an opposite end at which a curved fork is carried. In one embodiment, a center post runs continuously through the center bore holes of the weight plates. In another embodiment, an insert is located in the center bore hole of each weight plate to be mated to the insert from an adjacent plate. When the pivotal switch arm of any weight plate is rotated to a locked position, the curved fork is rotated with the switch arm into surrounding engagement with the center post or the insert. |
| US08708859B2 |
Multi-speed transmission having three planetary gear sets
A transmission having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. |
| US08708851B2 |
Power transmission chain and power transmission system including same
With a view to suppressing fretting in a power transmission chain, when a chain straight-line area is seen from a chain widthwise direction W, a flat portion 18 of a first pin 3 of the chain extends in an inclination direction D. A point of intersection P0 is formed by an imaginary line L1 which passes through a center position of an overall height h of the first pin 3 along the inclination direction D intersecting the flat portion. A point of intersection P2 is formed by an imaginary line L2 which passes through a contact portion A0 and which extends in a chain advancing direction X intersecting the flat portion 18 between the point of intersection P0 and one end P1 of the flat portion. When assuming that a distance between the point of intersection P0 and the point of intersection P2 is referred to as h1 and a distance between the point of intersection P2 and the one end P1 of the flat portion 18 is referred to as h2, 0.1·h1≦h2. |
| US08708849B2 |
Inverted tooth chain sprocket with frequency modulated meshing features
A sprocket for an inside flank engagement inverted tooth chain includes tooth spaces each defined at least partially by the engaging flank of one tooth, the disengaging flank of another tooth, and a root surface that is located between the engaging flank and the disengaging flank of the tooth space. The engaging flank of each tooth space is defined as a mirror image of the disengaging flank of each tooth space relative to a tooth space centerline such that each tooth space is symmetrically defined about its tooth space centerline. The sprocket teeth include Type A Standard Teeth, Type B Standard Teeth, Type A Relieved Teeth, and Type B Relieved Teeth. The engaging flank of each Type A Relieved Tooth and both the engaging and disengaging flanks of each Type B Relieved Tooth are relieved or negatively offset. The root surface preceding a Type A Relieved Tooth or a Type B Relieved Tooth is raised so as to be located radially outward as compared the root surface preceding a Type A Standard Tooth or a Type B Standard Tooth. |
| US08708847B2 |
Sport ball casing and methods of manufacturing the casing
A sport ball may include a casing and a bladder. The casing includes a plurality of panels having edge areas joined to each other with bonds, and the edge areas project toward an exterior of the ball. The bladder is located within the casing. In another aspect, the casing includes a first panel and a second panel that each have an exterior surface facing outward and an opposite interior surface facing inward. The interior surface of the first panel is bonded to the interior surface of the second panel to form a seam that joins the first panel and the second panel together. A method of manufacturing the casing may include forming thermal bonds between the panels. |
| US08708845B2 |
Ball bat including multiple failure planes
A composite ball bat includes multiple failure planes within a barrel wall. By including multiple failure planes in a barrel wall, the bat exhibits a drop in performance when subjected to rolling or other extreme deflection, with no temporary increase in barrel performance. Because the barrel performance does not increase, the ball bat is able to comply with performance limitations imposed by regulatory associations. |
| US08708835B1 |
Golf putter apparatus
Golf putter apparatus includes a golf putter, a laser light generator and mirror mounting structure inserted in the shaft maintaining proper positioning of a mirror used to reflect laser light from the laser light generator and operable to hold the mirror in stable fixed position and orientation. |
| US08708832B2 |
Electromagnetic swing
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a powered children's swing. In various embodiments, the swing includes a seat, swing frame, one or more swing arms, a first magnetic component, second magnetic component, swing motion sensor, and swing control circuit. The magnetic components are configured to generate a magnetic force that drives the seat along a swing path. The swing control circuit is configured to control the magnetic components based at least on input from the swing motion sensor and generate control signals causing the seat to swing with a substantially constant amplitude as specified by a user. |
| US08708830B2 |
Break away spline misalignment coupling
A torque-limiting coupling may be used to provide a torsion drive between an engine or motor and a driven accessory. If an accessory should experience a catastrophic failure a torsion limit is exceeded and a spline breaks away from the coupling. This guarantees that the internal engine gearing used to drive the accessory is not compromised and interfering with essential moving parts inside the engine. Further, a misalignment compensation limits the side load and wear that occurs when coupling two precision shafts with little clearance on the bearings. With a misalignment coupling, the mount can be slightly out of parallel with no negative effects. |
| US08708829B2 |
Video game using short range communications to establish pairing and alternate communications during multiplayer gameplay
Each game apparatus participating in a network system has a wireless communication module for performing a one-to-many wireless communication with reference to identifying information and a local communication module for performing a one-to-one infrared communication without referring to it. In a case that the one-to-many wireless communication is performed, pairing processing is executed in a tournament method such that a master and a slave are first decided between its own game apparatus and any one of the game apparatuses over the local communication module, and identifying information stored on the slave side is collected into the master side. In a case that its own game apparatus becomes the only master game apparatus as a result of a series of pairing processing, it transmits a signal including identifying information of all the game apparatuses over the wireless communication module whereas in a case that its own game apparatus becomes the slave apparatus, it receives the signal. |
| US08708828B2 |
Pluggable modular gaming modifiers and configuration templates for gaming environments
Frameworks for providing modular computer program code and automated configuration of server-based gaming environments are disclosed. One or more “pluggable” modular gaming modifier can be provided for the modular computer program code without requiring the replacement of the entire computer program code for the game. Typically, the pluggable” modular gaming modifier can be added to or can replace one or more gaming modules or sub-modules, thereby requiring less time and effort for effectively modifying game presentation. In addition, configuration data can be generated and stored as configurations templates which can be used to configure one or more gaming machines in an automated manner. The configuration templates can be generated based on gaming modules and/or sub-modules provided for modular computer program code. As such, a content-based configuration template can effectively include and/or identify one or more modules, sub-modules and/or pluggable modular or sub-modular gaming modifiers associated with a modular computer program code. The configuration modules can be combined together for form configuration modules that effectively incorporate the features of two or more existing configurations. |
| US08708827B2 |
Network breeding game system, breeding game server apparatus and breeding game terminal apparatus, character display method, together with program and recording medium
In a network game system, as well as causing a player to appreciate a growth of a character in accordance with an elapsing of time, to cause the player not to feel a strangeness either in a display of a character which another player is breeding. A visible range of a hypothetical space displayed on a display device for each player participating in a network game is managed. Also, a plurality of parameters, including a number of breeding days, strength, stamina and judgment, are set in a breeding character which each player breeds, and managed in a server apparatus. Although the number of breeding days is updated at a daily prescribed time, the strength, the stamina and the judgment are updated in accordance with details of breeding which each player has carried out for the breeding character. Information relating to a breeding character included in the visible range of each player, regardless of whether the relevant player breeds it or another player breeds it, is included in visible range information transmitted from the server apparatus. |
| US08708824B2 |
Information processing program
A game system comprises image obtaining means, direction calculation means, first rotation means, and display control means. The image obtaining means obtains an image taken by an imaging device. The direction calculation means calculates a direction originally determined from the image of an imaging target included in the image taken by the imaging device. The first rotation means rotates an operation target in accordance with the calculated direction. The display control means generates an image in accordance with the rotation of the operation target performed by the first rotation means and displays the generated image on a screen of a display device. |
| US08708822B2 |
Information processing system and program
A game system comprises image obtaining means, direction calculation means, moving means, and display control means. The image obtaining means obtains an image taken by an imaging device. The direction calculation means calculates a direction originally determined from the image of an imaging target included in the image taken by the imaging device. The moving means moves an operation target in a predetermined direction in accordance with the calculated direction. The display control means generates an image in accordance with the movement of the operation target performed by the moving means and displays the generated image on a screen of a display device. |
| US08708818B2 |
Display control system, display control method, computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon display control program, and display control apparatus
An image of a virtual space viewed from a first virtual camera is displayed on a screen provided on an example terminal device, and an image of the virtual space viewed from a second virtual camera which operates in conjunction with the first virtual camera is displayed on a display device. A first user operates a user object while viewing the screen of the terminal device. A second user views the screen of the display device on which an image similar to that on the screen of the terminal device is being displayed, and indicates a position on the screen, using a controller. An indicated object is arranged at a position in the virtual space corresponding to the position indicated on the screen of the display device, and the indicated object is displayed on the screen of the terminal device. |
| US08708815B2 |
Game method and gaming system
Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for gaming. A method includes the steps of displaying a set of objects and a set of prizes to a player, the number of objects and prizes being the same; receiving at least one object selection instruction from a player, each object selection resulting in one of the set of prizes becoming unavailable to the player; displaying to the player an award for ending the game that the player can accept or reject; if an award acceptance instruction is received from the player, granting the player the displayed award, or, if an award rejection instruction is received from the player, receiving at least one further object selection instruction, each further object selection instruction resulting in a further prize becoming unavailable to the player; and repeating the previous two steps until either an acceptance instruction is received or a last of the objects remains. |
| US08708814B2 |
System and method for playing a game having online and offline elements
A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type or casino-based game. A partial result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in an offline portion of the game. The remaining portion of the result is revealed to the player in an online portion of the game. In one example, the online/offline game includes a slot machine game. In one example, the online/offline game includes a bingo game. In yet another example, the online/offline game includes a game of roulette. In one example, particular game features are associated with either the online or offline portions of the game. In this way, players are motivated to participate in both portions of the game, enhancing and prolonging the game experience. |
| US08708813B2 |
Network game system, game apparatus, storage medium storing program, and game controlling method
A network game system includes a plurality of game apparatuses, a game server and a network. In the game apparatuses whose players are acquainted with each other, each-other's profile IDs are registered via a game server, and the contents of the registration are managed by the game server. A game apparatus having a released version game program performs a communication game inviting request on the game server while a game apparatus having its trial version game program performs a communication game participating request on the game server. If the game apparatuses are game apparatuses whose each-other's profile IDs are registered, the game server permits a connection to execute a communication game between these game apparatuses. |
| US08708803B2 |
Award features for a gaming machine and related methods
A method for providing an award feature on a gaming machine is provided. The method includes providing a sequential series of games, each game of the sequential series producing a game outcome, which can be a winning or losing outcome. A winning outcome results in an award value to be added to a player's award total. The highest single award value is determined from all award values resulting from all the games of the sequential series of games. Prior to adding the highest single award value to the player's award total, a multiplier is applied to the highest single award value to obtain a multiplied value. The multiplied value is added to the player's award total in place of the highest award value. |
| US08708797B2 |
Device to automatically change award parameters for a gaming machine
A control unit in communication with a plurality of gaming machines selects one or more of the active machines to be set to an enhanced play mode. The selection may be random or based on other factors. During the enhanced play mode, the awards attributed to each symbol combination are increased, and the game parameters, other than the award amounts may be changed. |
| US08708795B2 |
Method and system for facilitating extended play of a wagering game
Systems and methods for facilitating one or more base wagering games in an extended format are provided. Outcomes for the base wagering game may be determined, and based on the outcomes, player rankings in the extended play wagering game may be determined. |
| US08708790B2 |
Method of operating an online game using consolidated game objects
The present invention provides methods for playing a multi-player, online game in which players build virtual worlds by placing game objects into a game space and may consolidate multiple game objects into a single object such that the new consolidated object maintains some or all of the features of the original, separate objects but occupies less game space. |
| US08708784B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing poultry suspended by the feet from a conveyor hook
A method for processing poultry suspended by the feet from a conveyor hook is provided. The method and apparatus allow the quality of the poultry to be classified and graded in a simpler and more effective manner to realize higher yields or an extra added value. In one exemplary embodiment a processing apparatus for a foot of the poultry is provided that includes a foot pad inspection apparatus. |
| US08708781B2 |
Systems and methods for grinding refractory metals and refractory metal alloys
A system for grinding surgical needles made of refractory metal alloys such as tungsten-rhenium alloys includes a rotatable grinding wheel having a grinding surface, a layer of a binding material, such as a nickel binding material layer, overlying the grinding surface, and a plurality of abrasive particles, such as ABN600 abrasive particles, embedded within the binding material layer. The abrasive particles are similarly sized and the binding material layer has a thickness that is about 65% of the size of the similarly sized abrasive particles. The system includes a lubricating device adapted to apply a lubricant to an interface between the grinding surface and distal ends of needle blanks and a rotating element coupled with the rotatable wheel for rotating the grinding surface at about 10,000 surface feet per minute. |
| US08708780B2 |
Honing apparatus
A rotary tool of a honing apparatus is provided with honing grindstones that grind a cylinder bore, and guide members that slide in a guide hole of a tool guide. The guide members are each constituted of a base member fixed to the tool body and a slide member fixed to the base member. The base member is composed of a ceramic material, and the slide member is composed of a cemented carbide material. With the guide members having such a configuration, electrolytic dressing is performed on the honing grindstones. |
| US08708774B2 |
Automatic grinding machine for end mills for wood, programmable with optical reading of the geometric characteristics and computerized shapening
An automatic grinding machine for end mills for wood, programmable with optical reading of geometric features and for computerized sharpening, has a compact structure, which includes a computerized control panel actuating various assemblies adapted for automated sharpening. A first optical reading assembly has an arm for automatic movement from an inactive position to a position suited for detecting the geometric features of the end mill. A second assembly for holding the end mill is configured to move on command forward and backward and/or simultaneously rotate the mill about its own axis. A third assembly for supporting a cup grinding wheel is mounted on the vertical frame, which rests on a rotatable circular and horizontal base. The grinding wheel can move above and below, longitudinally along the mill and/or in front of it, on the right and left side to sharpen end mills for wood with a left-handed or right-handed helix. |
| US08708767B2 |
Color changing toys, games and devices
In one aspect of the present invention, a toy arrangement involving a flickering, animated and/or luminescent toy object will be described. The toy arrangement includes a toy object having an ultraviolet sensitive layer. A light source is arranged to illuminate the ultraviolet sensitive layer with ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet sensitive layer is arranged to emit colored light in response to exposure to the ultraviolet light. In some implementations, the light source is arranged to vary the intensity of the ultraviolet light, which in turn can cause the colored light emitted from the toy object to fade, brighten and flicker. The toy arrangement may also include a speaker that emits sounds that are synchronized with changes in the colored light. |
| US08708765B2 |
Kit for constructing a play structure
A kit for constructing a variety of play structures for children includes a plurality of arcuate tubes, a plurality of linear tubes, and a plurality of connectors. At least one of the tubes is releasably assembled together with another one of the tubes using the connectors to form a frame. An instruction manual provides directions for releasably assembling the tubes and the connectors to form the variety of play structures from the kit. The kit may also include at least one covering and at least one covering connector to releasably affix the covering to at least a portion of the frame of the play structure. |
| US08708750B2 |
Combo connector
A receptacle connector includes an insulative housing, at least three terminal groups and a metal shell. The insulative housing has a base and at least three tongue pieces which integrally extend from the base and are transversally spaced apart to each other and in which a tongue piece of the tongue pieces at a left side thereof belongs to a left tongue piece, a tongue piece of the tongue pieces at a right side thereof belongs to a right tongue piece, and the other of the tongue pieces between the left tongue piece and the right tongue piece belongs to a middle tongue piece. The metal shell surrounds the tongue pieces and defines a common mating space as well as a first and second mating space. |
| US08708749B2 |
High-speed interface connector
A high-speed interface connector is used for connecting a cable or a memory card each having a differential transmission system signal pin arrangement including a pair of differential transmission signaling pins that are adjacent to each other and two stable potential pins provided on both sides of the pair of differential transmission signaling pins, the two stable potential pins having potentials different from each other. The connector includes: a first and a second contact terminals for differential transmission respectively connected to the pair of differential transmission signaling pins; and a third and a fourth contact terminals provided on both sides of the first and the second contact terminal, the third contact terminal adjacent to the first contact terminal being connected to one of the two stable potential pins, and the fourth contact terminal adjacent to the second contact terminal having a potential identical to that of the third contact terminal. |
| US08708748B2 |
Electrical connector and method of assembling the same
An electrical connector assembly (100) comprises: a first insulative housing having a base portion (11) and a mating portion (12), and a second insulative housing (4) located on the base portion. The second insulative housing defines a body portion (41) and a tongue portion (42). A number of contacts (2) are formed in the first and second insulative housings. Each of the contact defines a first mating section (201) and a second mating section (202), and a curved connecting section connected with the first and second mating sections. A first metallic shell (3) encloses and engages with the first insulative housing. A second metallic shell (5) encloses the second insulative housing and engages with the first insulative housing. And, a metallic connecting piece (6) respectively connects with the first and second metallic shells. |
| US08708737B2 |
Cable connectors having a jacket seal
A cable connector has a jacket seal. In one example embodiment, the cable connector also has a pin configured to receive an inner conductor of a cable. In such embodiment, the connector has components or surfaces which cooperate to engage a section or portion of an outer conductor of the cable. |
| US08708734B2 |
Cable assembly
A cable assembly, comprising a housing having a main portion, a plurality of conductive terminals received in the main portion of the housing, a cable having a plurality of wires and a metal shell with a no-joint-line surface enclosing the housing and comprising a front portion enclosing the housing and a rear portion enclosing the cable and a receiving space passing through the front portion and the rear portion. |
| US08708732B2 |
Connector having a receptacle and a plug with a pair of locking pieces with a pair of locking hooks
Connector includes a plug and receptacle. The receptacle includes a cylindrical part and a flange. The plug includes a cylindrical barrel, which houses internal connectors, and a coupling nut. At an end of the barrel, an engaging piece and a pair of locking pieces, which face each other, project in an axial direction of the barrel. Locking hooks are formed at the tips of the locking pieces. The coupling nut is screwed onto the cylindrical part to connect the plug to the receptacle. Before the connection, the engaging piece and the locking pieces are inserted into and engaged with the cylindrical part and positioned. At the same time, the locking pieces are caught in the receptacle to temporarily secure the plug to the receptacle. |
| US08708731B2 |
Electrical assembly with socket and plug
The invention relates to a plug assembly (1), a socket (2, 2′) and a plug with a plug member (3, 3′), wherein the socket (2, 2′) is shaped with a hollow receiving section (4) for receiving the plug member (3, 3′) in a mating direction (M). In order to latch or unlatch the plug assembly (1) the hollow receiving section (4) comprises at least one actuating zone (36), which can be deformed perpendicular to the mating direction (M), resulting in a movement of a latching element (9) of the receiving section (4). For improving the handling of the plug assembly (1), especially while connecting, the present invention provides that the socket (2, 2′) comprises supporting elements (29, 30, 31), which rest on an outer wall guiding section (13) of the plug member (3, 3′), assuring that only a proper deformation of the actuating zone (38, 39) occurs while mating the plug and the socket. |
| US08708730B2 |
Wireless internet device
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a wireless Internet device. The wireless Internet device includes a device body (1) with an accommodation space, a connection interface (2) set in the accommodation space, and a subscriber identity module (SIM) card holder (3) configured to install a SIM card, where a push-locking apparatus (4, 5) is also set in the accommodation space; the push-locking apparatus (4, 5) includes a push part (41, 51) and a locking part (42, 52); the push part (41, 51) is connected to the locking part (42, 52). The solution provided in the embodiments of the present invention can achieve a purpose that the SIM card holder (3) cannot be randomly plugged in and out when the wireless Internet device works. |
| US08708718B2 |
Electrical connector with grounding contact having forked soldering branches
A cable connector compatible to type-A USB 3.0 standard includes a number of contacts divided into a first contact group and a second contact group. The first contact group is compatible to USB 2.0 standard. The second contact group includes a number of second contacts having a first pair of high-speed differential signal contacts, a second pair of high-speed differential signal contacts and a grounding contact disposed between the first pair and the second pair of high-speed differential signal contacts. The second soldering section of the grounding contact is of a forked manner and includes at least a first branch and a second branch. As a result, it is more effective to solder the second soldering section of the grounding contact with a cable without any manual alignment work. |
| US08708717B2 |
Motherboard with edge connector
A motherboard includes a board, and a hard disk drive (HDD) controller. The board includes an edge connector formed on a bottom side of the board. The edge connector includes a group of signal pins and a group of ground pins. Two cutouts are defined in the board and are located at two opposite sides of the edge connector. The HDD controller drives a storage device when the storage device is connected to the edge connector. The group of signal pins of the edge connector is connected to the HDD controller. The group of ground pins is connected to a ground layer of the motherboard. |
| US08708714B2 |
Capacitively coupled connector for electronic device
An electrical connector is provided that includes a plug portion having an upper surface on which one electronic device is disposed, and a receptacle which is disposed on another electronic device. The plug portion has plug side contact conductors which are positioned separately from each other on a lower surface side of the plug portion. Between the plug side contact conductors which are positioned separately from each other, a capacitive coupling conductor is provided. The receptacle has a receptacle side contact conductors which are in contact with the plug side contact conductors. The plug side contact conductors and the receptacle side contact conductors have shapes corresponding to each other, and the receptacle side contact conductors retain the plug side contact conductors while the dielectric isinterposed between the capacitive coupling. |
| US08708704B2 |
System for providing roadmaps for building proficiencies in skill areas
A system is described for providing roadmaps for building proficiencies in skill areas. The system may include a memory, interface, and processor. The memory may store skill area and skill level identifiers, and associated job experience data items describing tasks of a user within the skill area and skill level, formal learning data items describing learning activities of a user within the skill area and skill level, and collaborative data items describing collaborative roles of a user within the skill area and skill level. The processor may receive the skill area and skill level identifiers. The processor may retrieve the job experience, formal learning and collaborative data items associated with the skill area and the skill level identifiers. The processor may transform the data items into a roadmap describing the job experience, formal learning and collaborative data items recommended to reach the skill level, and provide the roadmap to the user. |
| US08708702B2 |
Systems and methods for learning using contextual feedback
A method of supporting vocabulary and language learning by positioning at least one microphone so as to capture speech in the listening environment of a learner. The microphone is monitored to develop a speech signal. The speech signal is analyzed to determine at least one characteristic of the speech or vocalization, wherein the characteristic indicates a qualitative or quantitative feature of the speech. The determined characteristic is compared to a preselected standard or such characteristic is tracked to show growth over time and the comparison or growth is reported to the person associated with the speech signal or person who potentially can affect the language environment of the learner. |
| US08708700B2 |
Generating a chemical agent in situ
A method of cleaning teeth by providing a device for generating a chemical agent in situ on an as-needed basis via the application of an electrical potential across a pair of conductors in communication with an electrolyte. The chemical agents may include ozone, hydrogen peroxide, peroxide, chlorine and/or hypochlorite. The device may include a voltage source and a first set of electrodes for applying an electrical potential to the electrolyte. The device may also include a second set of electrodes disposed about an anode of the first set of electrodes. The first and second sets of anodes cooperate to produce ions, peroxides, ozone and/or other chemical agents via the application of electrical potential to the electrolyte. |
| US08708698B2 |
Ligating device for arch wires or orthodontic wires and respective method for the application of an arch wire or an orthodontic wire
The present invention relates to a ligating device (1) for arch wires or orthodontic wires, having a bondable base (2), for coupling to a tooth, and a main body (3), where the main body (3) has a slot (4), suitable for receiving a metal arch wire (5). The slot (4) has its entrance on one of its gingival or occlusal sides. The invention relates also to a method for the application of an arch wire or an orthodontic wire (5), by insertion of the arch wire or orthodontic wire (5) in a plurality of ligating devices (1) for arch wires or orthodontic wires, along a gingival-occlusal, or occlusal-gingival direction of insertion. |
| US08708693B2 |
Industrial burner and related combustion process for heat treatment furnaces
A high speed burner having very low polluting emissions, suitable for the process for heat treatment furnaces of a load in free atmosphere. The burner is capable of creating a compact and lean flame with the peculiarity of keeping the NOx emissions at very low levels at any chamber temperature and at any excess combustion air. The burner requires a single inlet for the comburent air and a single inlet for the combustible gas. |
| US08708688B2 |
Thermally insulated die plate assembly for underwater pelletizing and the like
An insulated die plate assembly for use in underwater pelletizing and other granulation processes includes a thin, continuous air chamber formed across the plate assembly generally parallel to the die face such that the heated upstream portion of the die plate assembly is thermally insulated from the downstream portion. The air chamber is atmospherically equilibrated by venting the air chamber to the atmosphere. The plurality of extrusion orifices, either individually or in groups, are formed in extrusion orifice extensions that extend through the insulation chamber so that the process melt to be granulated can pass therethrough. The orifice extensions and the components forming the air chamber around the orifice extensions channel heat along said extensions to maintain the process melt therein at a desired temperature, to help rigidify the die plate assembly and to better seal the air chamber. |
| US08708683B2 |
Mold-runner system having independently controllable shooting-pot assemblies
A mold-tool system for use with a molding-system platen structure, the mold-tool system a frame assembly being connectable with the molding-system platen structure (107); and a set of shooting-pot assemblies being supported by the frame assembly, wherein control of each shooting-pot assembly of the set of shooting-pot assemblies is independent. |
| US08708681B2 |
Blow-moulding machine with blow mould locking in the clean room
An apparatus for molding plastic preforms into plastic containers, includes a plurality of molding stations which are arranged on a movable carrier. The molding stations each include blow molds, within which plastic preforms can be molded into plastic containers by applying a flowable medium, as well as blow mold carriers for holding the blow molds, a clean room which at least partially surrounds the individual molding stations, so that the molding stations can be moved within the clean room, and a locking mechanism at least partially located within the clean room, to lock the two blow mold carrier parts together in a closed condition. The locking mechanism includes a first locking element that cooperates with a second locking element, the first locking element being arranged to be movable by a movement device that is supported by at least one bearing that is at least partially provided outside of the clean room. |
| US08708676B1 |
Drive system having a variable output gerotor pump
A variable output assembly including a hydraulic pump disposed on a pump running surface located on a center section, end cap or other hydraulic mounting member. The pump may be a gerotor or other rotatable pump body. A support member is disposed between the pump running surface and the pump and includes a pump support surface having openings to permit fluid communication between the support member and the pump running surface. The support member is movable between neutral and a plurality of positions corresponding to forward and reverse directions of the output. In forward and reverse positions, the support member permits fluid communication between the pump and a first porting system, and in the neutral position the support member permits fluid communication between the pump and a sump through the support surface openings and a second porting system. |
| US08708674B2 |
Modular CPAP compressor
A modular compressor assembly comprises a common motor assembly, an impeller, a blower housing and an engagement mechanism. The common motor assembly includes a stator housing containing a stator assembly and having a rotor magnet rotatably disposed therewithin. The impeller is mounted to and rotatable with the rotor magnet. The blower housing is selectable from among a plurality of blower housings each having a different cross-sectional geometry. The engagement mechanism is formed on the stator housing and/or the blower housing and allows interchangeable mounting of different blower housing configurations to the common motor assembly in order to achieve varying flow characteristics of the compressor assembly. |
| US08708673B1 |
Inline shaft driven draft inducer
Draft inducers are set forth herein. According to one embodiment, a draft inducer for use with corrosive and high temperature gas includes an inline tubular housing, an impeller inside the housing, and a motor outside the housing. A drive shaft couples the motor to the impeller to rotate the impeller with force from the motor. According to another embodiment, an inline shaft driven draft inducer includes an inline tubular housing, a rotating member, a motor, and a drive shaft. The housing has an external perimeter, and the motor is outside the housing external perimeter. The rotating member is inside the housing, and the drive shaft couples the motor to the rotating member to spin the rotating member with force from the motor. |
| US08708672B2 |
Magnetic liquid pump assembly with shaft and axle arrangement
A fluid pump assembly is provided. The pump has a pair of units magnetically coupled to each other. The first unit contains a drive motor and a magnetic assembly. The second unit contains a magnetic assembly and a blade of a propeller/impeller for imparting movement to a fluid. As the first unit is activated by the drive motor, a magnetic flux is created which in turn rotates the magnetic assembly in the second unit, driving the blade. |
| US08708668B2 |
Thrust generating apparatus
A thrust generating apparatus is provided under water and configured to generate thrust by ejecting the water. A rotor main body includes: a first member including a side surface and outer peripheral surface which are opposed to a first water lubricated bearing; a second member including a side surface and outer peripheral surface which are opposed to a second water lubricated bearing; and a third member including a supporting surface contacting an inner peripheral surface of a rotor core. The first to third members are fixed to one another so that each member is detachable. |
| US08708667B2 |
Fuel pump assembly
A fuel pump assembly for a fuel injection system comprises a drive shaft, at least two pump heads each of which is axially displaced along the drive shaft, each pump head having a respective plunger for pressurising fuel within a respective pump chamber, and at least two cams provided on the drive shaft, each of which is associated with a respective one of the pump heads. Adjacent pump heads are offset angularly from one another by an amount sufficient to allow a region of overlap, in an axial direction along the drive shaft, between the adjacent pump heads. |
| US08708662B2 |
Linear compressor
A linear compressor for adjusting a variable rate of a cooling capacity is provided. The linear compressor may include a fixed member having a compression space formed therein, a movable member linearly reciprocated in the fixed member to compress a refrigerant drawn into the compression space, one or more springs provided to elastically support the movable member in the motion direction of the movable member, a motor unit including a motor connected to the movable member to linearly reciprocate the movable member in the axial direction and a capacitor connected in series to the motor, and a motor control unit controlling an AC voltage applied to the motor to adjust a variable rate of a cooling capacity by the reciprocation of the movable member. |
| US08708661B2 |
Compressor with oil level controller
A compression device includes a controller to control an operating speed of a compressor based on a detected level of oil in an oil storage area. During a speed-change operation, the controller controls acceleration of the compressor to maintain the oil level within a predetermined range when the oil level is detected to be outside the predetermined range. |
| US08708660B2 |
Airfoil for a compressor blade
The present disclosure provides an improved second stage airfoil for a compressor blade having a unique chord length (CD) stagger angle (γ) and camber angle (Δβ). The stagger angle (γ) and camber angle (Δβ) provide improved aerodynamics while the chord length (CD) provides for reduced airfoil weight. |
| US08708659B2 |
Turbine engine component having protective coating
A turbine engine apparatus includes a structural component made of a superalloy material. A protective coating is disposed on the structural component and has a composition that consists essentially of up to 30 wt % cobalt, 5-40 wt % chromium, 7.5-35 wt % aluminum, up to 6 wt % tantalum, up to 1.7 wt % molybdenum, up to 3 wt % rhenium, up to 5 wt % tungsten, up to 2 wt % yttrium, 0.05-2 wt % hafnium, 0.05-7 wt % silicon, 0.01-0.1 wt % zirconium, and a balance of nickel. |
| US08708658B2 |
Local application of a protective coating on a shrouded gas turbine engine component
A gas turbine engine component includes a blade section having an inner end and an outer end, a shroud section at the outer end, and a platform at the inner end. A protective coating is disposed on the shroud, where the blade section is substantially free of the protective coating. The protective coating may also be disposed on the platform. |
| US08708657B2 |
Rotor Disc
A rotor disc 2 is provided with blade receiving recesses 40 at its outer periphery. The disc 2 has an internal cavity 34 for conveying cooling air to blades 4 retained in the recesses 40. Each blade-receiving recess 40 intersects the cavity 34 to provide communication between the cavity 34 and the recesses 40. The disc 2 may be made from separate disc components 12, 14 which define the cavity 34 between them. |
| US08708652B2 |
Cover plate for turbine rotor having enclosed pump for cooling air
A cover plate for use with a rotor disk in a gas turbine engine includes an enclosed chamber associated with a web on the rotor disk. The enclosed chamber ensures that adequate cooling air is delivered by rotation of the cover plate. |
| US08708651B2 |
Aerodynamic performance enhancements using discharge plasma actuators
The current invention provides significant performance improvements or significant energy savings for fans used in these applications: personal, industrial and automotive cooling, ventilation, vacuuming and dust removal, inflating, computer component cooling, propulsors for unmanned and manned air vehicles, propulsors for airboats, air-cushion vehicles, airships and model aircraft. Additionally, the invention provides higher performance such as higher lift and higher lift efficiency to small air vehicles. These advantages are achieved by using plasma actuators to provide active flow control effectors into thin fan blades and wing. |
| US08708650B2 |
Fan assembly
A fan assembly for creating an air current includes a nozzle mounted on a base. The base comprises an outer casing, an impeller housing located within the outer casing, the impeller housing having an air inlet and an air outlet, an impeller located within the impeller housing and a motor for driving the impeller to create an air flow through the impeller housing. The nozzle includes an interior passage for receiving the air flow from the air outlet of the impeller housing and a mouth through which the air flow is emitted from the fan assembly. |
| US08708649B2 |
Architecture of a compressor rectifier
The present invention relates to a turbine engine rectifier stage comprising a plurality of fixed vanes connecting an inner ferrule support 19 to an outer ferrule support 14, said inner ferrule support and said outer ferrule support defining an aerodynamic vein and comprising a set of contiguously assembled sectors 20,15 respectively, the plurality of fixed vanes comprising so-called structural vanes 5 surrounding so-called non-structural or aero vanes 6 so as to form boxes 7, said structural vanes 5 being rigidly attached to the ends of the sectors of the inner ferrule support 20 by means of attachment elements 17 in order to impart increased stiffness to the boxes 7. |
| US08708642B2 |
Stable wind power turbine
A new improved compact wind power turbine with multiple turbine blades and an isolated arrow point stationary nose is presented. Turbine blades (rotors) are connected to a circular cage, and at the center of the turbine, the isolated arrow point stationary nose points forward. Each turbine blade has a 90 degree right angle fin connected to its tip for capturing the force of the wind that applies to the blade tip, which otherwise spills over, reducing wind force and creating turbulence at the tip. The captured wind at the blade tip increases the rotational force on the turbine blades creating a greater rotational force than on other market-available wind turbines. Preferentially, the turbine is directed into the wind either manually, or by using a tail vane or other means for orientating turbine into a wind. A generator or alternator converts the mechanical power into electricity for use at industrial, commercial or home sites. |
| US08708640B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficiently generating and extracting power from an air flow to do useful work
A portion of the internal energy of a mass flow of a compressible fluid, such as air, is transformed efficiently into greatly increased flow kinetic energy by passing the flow through a set of converging nozzles in a cylindrical rotor; this accelerates the isentropic flow to sonic speed generating large thrust. The nozzle thrust generates torque, thus rotating the rotor which is coupled to a power take-off for doing useful work. The mass flow of air through the apparatus is supplied by a vacuum pump. |
| US08708637B2 |
Consignment system and method of loading a freight carrier
The invention relates to a consignment system and method for loading a freight carrier (2) with freight units (4) forming a freight stack (3), either manually or on an automated basis. The consignment system comprises a device (1) with a positioning conveyor unit (16) which has conveyor tracks (50a, 50b) which can be adjusted by means of a displacement device (52) to a distance (53) determined on the basis of the conveying property of the freight unit (4) to be stacked and/or from a gap width (81) of a stack gap in a stack position of the freight stack (3). |
| US08708635B2 |
Compact roll-off trailer configurations for container-hauling applications
A compact roll-off trailer is short and light, but able to carry a large load. As such, the unit competes with roll-off trucks. A horizontally tilt frame has a forward section coupled to a king-pin assembly, a rear section with wheels on at least two axles, and a mid section. A frameless version uses a set of opposing arms as opposed to a separate, non-tilting frame. A single hydraulic cylinder has a retracted state wherein the lift frame is generally horizontal for hauling, and an extended state wherein the lift frame is pivoted at an angle for loading and unloading. A mechanism may be provided for extending the rearward portion of the lift frame to ground level when the hoist frame is pivoted, and a mechanism for pulling a cable with a container attached thereto onto the lift frame for hauling. The mechanism for extending the rearward portion of the lift frame may either include a ‘stinger tail’ or a slide frame on the lift frame a hydraulic cylinder for extending and retracting the slide frame. The latter configuration may include one or two sets of rollers to accommodate both ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ type containers. A “dead-lift” container-pulling mechanism may also be provided. |
| US08708631B2 |
Fastening element for hard constructional components
A fastening element for hard constructional components such as concrete, masonry, and the like, includes a cylindrical base body (22; 42; 62) having an inwardly located engagement element (28; 48; 68) for the setting bit and formed as a through-opening (31; 51; 71) in the bottom section (23; 43; 63) which is provided at the first end of the base body, a receptacle (29) opening toward the second end (25), remote from the first end and adjoining the engagement element (28; 48; 68) in a direction toward the second end (25), and provided with load application means (30; 50); and a self-tapping thread (27) provided, at least regionwise, on an outer surface (26) of the base body (22, 42; 62). |
| US08708624B1 |
Router chip guard
A chip deflector repositionable as needed relative to a bottom work contacting surface of a hand-held power router. The chip deflector can be positioned in a shielding location below the bottom work contacting surface of the router. When the chip deflector is in the shielding position and the router is held so that the deflector is between the cutter and the worker it will deflect debris away from the operator. When not useful the chip deflector can instantly be repositioned to a non-shielding location flush with or above the bottom work contacting surface of the router. When in the non-shielding location no portion of the chip deflector protrudes beyond the bottom work contacting surface of the router thereby allowing the router to perform all basic routing without obstruction. Repositioning requires no tools or downtime plus safety and comfort are enhanced. Embodiments may be provided as original equipment or aftermarket retrofits. |
| US08708623B2 |
Angle tool holder for five-face machining
The invention provides an angle tool holder to be disposed on an attachment attached to a spindle head of a vertical machining center and holding the angle tool holder to enable five-face machining of a workpiece. The angle tool holder denoted as a whole by reference number 500 has a shank 510 inserted to a spindle of the main machine, wherein a rotation of the shank 510 is transmitted via a gear transmission mechanism or the like disposed in a housing 540 so that the direction of a drive shaft thereof is varied orthogonally to thereby drive the angle cutter 520. An arm 550 connected to the housing 540 has three pull stud bolts 570 disposed thereon. The three pull stud bolts 570 are arranged at 90-degree intervals, and are clamped simultaneously by three collet chucks out of the four collet chucks disposed on the attachment unit for five-face machining. |
| US08708622B2 |
Gearwheel cutting machine having vibration damping
Gearwheel cutting machine for machining the tooth flanks of gearwheels (1), comprising chucking means (20) for chucking a workpiece (1) to be machined; a gear cutting tool; and a flat, ring-shaped vibration-damping element (21) insertable in the area of the chucking means (20) during the chucking of the workpiece (1) to be machined, the ring-shaped vibration-damping element (21) being provided in order to suppress or damp vibrations. |
| US08708614B2 |
Cutting knife for chip-removing cutting tools with breaking notch
A cutting knife for difficult-to-manipulate, chip-removing cutting tools, that is replaceably held in a knife window of a rotary-driven tool shaft of a base body, in which at least one knife holder that is connected to the cutting knife over a predetermined breaking point, and that assists with manipulation, is attached to the cutting knife, and is broken away for the tool shaft to be put to use. |
| US08708604B2 |
Quick release system for topsides float-over installation on offshore platforms
The present invention provides a system and method that keeps a barge and grillage system on the barge in compression with a topsides supported by the grillage system during the transport, while providing a quick release system between the barge, grillage system, and topsides during an installation procedure that transfers the topsides to an offshore platform. The quick release system can be in tension to apply a compressive force between the grillage system and the topsides until the quick release system is released. |
| US08708602B2 |
System and methods for stabilizing subsea pipeline
Systems and methods are described for controlling axial, lateral and/or vertical movements of subsea pipelines which reduce the need for expensive pipeline anchoring or other mitigation solutions. The pipeline is connected to a stabilizing structure generally adjacent to the pipeline using a plurality of load-bearing members attached to the pipeline and the stabilizing structure at a plurality of predetermined locations. Also described are systems and methods for monitoring operating parameters of the pipeline over time. |
| US08708601B2 |
Box culvert
A box culvert assembly and method of forming a box culvert assembly is provided. The boxes forming the assembly comprise portions configured to allow pivoted assembly of one box into another, while reducing the likelihood of high stress or fracture. The box assembly further allows for a generally tight seal between the boxes. |
| US08708598B2 |
Stroke control trowel
An automatic speed control system for a power trowel for regulated adjustment of rotational speed of the trowel rotor assemblies. The disclosure provides for and is configurable to automatically regulate trowel speed and can be adapted to utilize advanced control features like cruise control and power management. The disclosed system incorporates several user and feedback inputs in a number of logic patterns for trowel control. |
| US08708597B2 |
System and method for increasing roadway width incorporating a reverse oriented retaining wall and soil nail supports
A system and method are provided for increasing the width of an existing roadway. The system incorporates a reverse-oriented retaining wall and soil nail supports. The retaining wall is formed by a first set of soil nails, wire mesh material, and one or more geotextile material layers. An alternate embodiment forms the retaining wall with a plurality of concrete blocks stacked and spaced to form a block wall. The blocks are mounted over the first set of nails. Backfill material fills a gap between the existing sloping surface and the retaining wall. A second set of soil nails can be provided for additional subsurface support. An upper surface of the backfill material can be paved to form the extended roadway width. |
| US08708591B2 |
Golf club cleaner with detachable brush
A cleaning bottle has a detachable brush removably secured to the bottle. The cleaning bottle can have a spray head to spray liquid out of the bottle and deliver it to a desired surface, such as a golf club or a golf shoe, for example. The user can them use the brush, either attached to the bottle or after removing it from the bottle, to scrub the surface on which the liquid/cleaner in the bottle has been sprayed. A loop can be disposed on the bottle onto which a fastener, such as a carabineer fastener, can be used for easy transport of the bottle. |
| US08708587B2 |
Substrate treating apparatus with inter-unit buffers
The invention provides coating units, heat-treating units, and a first main transport mechanism for transporting substrates to each of these treating units. The substrates are transferred from the first main transport mechanism to a second main transport mechanism through a receiver. When a substrate cannot be placed on the receiver, this substrate is placed on a buffer. Thus, the first main transport mechanism can continue transporting other substrates. The other substrates in the treating units are transported between the treating units without delay, to receive a series of treatments including coating treatment and heat treatment as scheduled. This prevents lowering of the quality of treatment for forming film on the substrates. |
| US08708585B2 |
Imaging apparatus and lens unit
An imaging apparatus includes a first terminal and a second terminal and a control unit configured to perform switching between a first communication mode for outputting a clock signal via the first terminal and communicating with a mounted lens unit via the second terminal based on the clock signal and a second communication mode for communicating with the mounted lens unit via the first terminal or the second terminal without using the clock signal. The control unit continuously sets the first communication mode if the second communication mode is not usable for the mounted lens unit. On the other hand, the control unit sets the second communication mode if the second communication mode is available for the mounted lens unit and sets a baud rate to communicate with the lens unit in the second communication mode to be a baud rate value received from the lens unit. |
| US08708576B2 |
Electro-optical device having an elastomeric body and related methods
An electro-optical device may include a substrate having opposing first and second surfaces and an opening extending therebetween. The optical device may also include an optical waveguide extending laterally along the first surface and having an end aligned with the opening, and an electro-optical component carried by the second surface and aligned with the opening. The electro-optical device may further include an elastomeric body within the opening and having a first end face adjacent the optical waveguide and having a second end face adjacent the electro-optical component. The elastomeric body and the optical waveguide may have respective gradient refraction indices within ±5% of each other. |
| US08708575B2 |
Active optical connector using audio port
An active optical connector using an audio port includes a plug insertable into a jack having an optical transceiver module. A conductor is mounted on the plug. Optical fibers extend through a central bore of the plug and have front ends held in a fiber ferrule. The jack has a terminal for contacting the conductor on the plug. The optical transceiver module has a receptacle for receiving the fiber ferrule. A light source emits light to an optical fiber, and a photo-detector receives light from another optical fiber. A controller chip has a converting circuit configured to convert electrical signals into optical signal and optical signals into electrical signals. |
| US08708574B2 |
Safeguard device for an interface of a fibre adapter
The present invention relates to a field of optical fiber communication. A safeguard device for a fiber adapter used to connect an input optical fiber connector with an output optical fiber connector is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the safeguard device comprises a shutter and a shutter locking unit. The shutter is operably provided at an interface of said fiber adapter to allow the interface to switch between an open position and a closed position, wherein, the shutter at least shuts off the optical beam emitted from the input optical connector when in said closed position. The shutter locking unit is adapted for selectively locking the shutter in the open position or in the closed position. The safeguard device for the interface of the fiber adapter is configured to lock the shutter in the conventional fiber adapter to stably hold the interface of the fiber adapter in an open position or in a closed position, especially, to lock the shutter in the closed position to shut off the optical beam emitted from the input optical fiber connector so as to effectively prevent the emission leakage of the optical beam from the input optical fiber connector, thus avoiding potential safety hazard to the user. |
| US08708573B2 |
Connector system with physical security feature
A connector system comprising: a multi-plug connector, each plug having a housing and a ferrule, said housing having a front and back orientation and having a front face defining an opening, said ferrule being disposed within said opening, said housing defining a first keying element on said front face around said opening, at least two housings of said multi-plug connector having different said first keying elements. |
| US08708572B2 |
Retainer segment for tapered roller bearing, tapered roller bearing, and method for mounting tapered roller bearing
An object of the present invention is to prevent breakup of segments which constitute a split type retainer for a tapered roller bearing, when the tapered roller bearing is being mounted on target equipment, thereby improving operability in the mounting process. A segment for a tapered roller bearing is provided with a predetermined number of posts between a small-diameter-side end fringe which constitutes a small-diameter-side circumferential edge of a split type retainer and a large-diameter-side end fringe which constitutes a large-diameter-side circumferential edge thereof. Pockets are formed between the posts. At least the large-diameter-side end fringe, out of the small-diameter-side end fringe and the large-diameter-side end fringe, is provided with a large-diameter-side engagement piece. When the bearing is mounted, the large-diameter-side engagement piece is engaged with the large-diameter engagement member fitted and fixed onto the bearing's inner ring, whereby the segment is prevented from breaking up. |
| US08708568B2 |
Synthetic resin-made thrust sliding bearing
A synthetic resin-made thrust sliding bearing 1 includes a synthetic resin-made upper casing 12, a synthetic resin-made lower casing 22, a synthetic resin-made thrust sliding bearing piece 33 interposed between the upper casing 12 and the lower casing 22, an outer elastic seal member 47 having an inner elastically deformable lip portion 43 and an outer elastically deformable lip portion 46, and an inner elastic seal member 54 having an outer elastically deformable lip portion 50 and an inner elastically deformable lip portion 53. |
| US08708565B2 |
Bearing arrangement
A bearing arrangement of a shaft (2) is provided with which an annular bearing sleeve (4) is applied onto the shaft (2). At least in the axial region in which the bearing sleeve (4) is arranged, the shaft (2) includes a profiling extending parallel to its longitudinal axis (X). A corresponding engagement element (12) on the inner periphery of the bearing element (4) engages the profiling with a positive fit. At least one engagement element (12) extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis (X) of the shaft (2) only over a part of the length of the bearing sleeve (4). |
| US08708560B2 |
Method and apparatus for adjusting the color properties or the photometric properties of an LED illumination device
The invention relates to a method for the temperature-dependent adjustment of the color properties or the photometric properties of an LED illuminating device having LEDs emitting light of different colors or wavelengths or LED color groups emitting light of the same color or wavelength within a color group, the luminous flux portions thereof determine the color of light, color temperature and/or the chromaticity coordinates of the light mixture emitted by the LED illuminating device. |
| US08708550B2 |
Fluid processing apparatus and processing method
A fluid is processed between processing surfaces capable of approaching to and separating from each other, at least one of which rotates relative to the other. A first fluid is introduced between processing surfaces, by using a micropump effect acting with a depression arranged on the processing surfaces from the center of the rotating processing surfaces. A second fluid, independent of this introduced fluid, is introduced from another fluid path that is provided with an opening leading to the processing surfaces, whereby the processing is done by mixing and stirring between the processing members. |
| US08708545B1 |
Frame structure of light module
A frame structure of a light module is described. The frame structure includes a rear plate including first side plates, a plastic frame and a front frame. Each first side plate is set with at least one fixing hole and includes top positioning protrusions. The plastic frame includes second side plates disposed on the first side plates. Each second side plate includes a connecting part disposed on the first side plate, at least one fixing element connected to the connecting part and lodged in the fixing hole, and positioning elements protruded on the connecting part. Each positioning element has a positioning slot. The top positioning protrusions are embedded in the positioning slots. The front frame includes side rims disposed on the second side plates. Each side rim is set with positioning holes. The positioning elements of each second side plate are embedded in the positioning holes. |
| US08708544B2 |
Light source unit and device using same
Provided is a light source unit in which locating components are mounted on a substrate together with LEDs forming a light emitting portion, and with this, the light source unit can be more easily replaced, and the number of components can be reduced. |
| US08708541B2 |
Backlight module and display panel
The present invention provides a backlight module and display panel. The backlight module includes a light guiding plate, an optical film, and at least two positioning structure. The at least two positioning structure are placed on the opposite side surfaces of the light guiding plate. Each of the positioning structure includes a main positioning member and a sub positioning member fixedly connected to the main positioning member. The main positioning member is fixedly connected to the side surface of the light guiding plate. The sub positioning member extends for a fixing distance along the main positioning member. The opposite at least two sub positioning member fix the optical film on the emitting surface of the light guiding plate. |
| US08708538B2 |
Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp includes a plurality of light sources, and a light guide plate configured to emit light to the front side of the lamp from a second surface facing a first surface by internally reflecting light, which is emitted from the respective light sources, by a plurality of reflective elements formed on the first surface after causing the light to enter the light guide plate from a rear end face of the light guide plate. The light guide plate is curved to the first surface and gradually becomes thinner toward the front side. The reflective elements are disposed at a predetermined interval in a longitudinal direction and extend in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction. |
| US08708536B1 |
Optic assembly for mirror
An optic assembly has a reflector with a reflective surface, one or more light sources, and mask assembly with one or more apertures. Light rays from a light source are refocused and substantially converged before being emitted through one or more apertures in the mask assembly. |
| US08708533B2 |
Lighting fixture for bicycle
A bicycle lighting fixture includes a housing defining therein an accommodation chamber, a reflector mounted in the accommodation chamber and a light source mounted in the accommodation chamber for emitting light onto the reflector. The reflector provides a curved reflecting surface facing toward the outside of the accommodation chamber and defining a plurality of reflecting surface areas at different elevations and a terrace surface connected between each two adjacent reflecting surface areas. |
| US08708528B2 |
Multiple focus point light
A lamp unit with a relay lens that allows two different focus points. Two different optical altering elements are hence simultaneously in focus. The elements can be taken in and out of focus to allow different effects. |
| US08708523B2 |
Panorama lamp with 360 degree peripheral illumination
A panorama lamp with 360 degree peripheral illumination with reference to an axis of the lamp is disclosed. Each of the light units mounted on a heat sink has a light chip facing outward from the lamp. Either a protection cap or a circular wall lens can be optionally adopted to cap the top of the lamp. The protection cap provides protection to the chips of the lamp from being damaged. The circular wall lens modifies the beam profile of the lamp to meet various market requests. |
| US08708519B2 |
LED conversion module for incandescent work light
An LED conversion module for converting an incandescent work light to an LED work light includes an enclosure housing a plurality of LEDs, wherein at least a portion of the enclosure permits light generated from the LEDs to pass therethrough. A screw base is coupled to the enclosure and extends outwardly therefrom. The screw base provides electrical communication between the LEDs and a screw-type light socket disposed in a work light handle. A hook is coupled to the enclosure to facilitate hanging the LED conversion module and handle from a support structure. |
| US08708514B2 |
Portable device for hands-free illumination
A portable device for hands free illumination includes a battery pack and a lamp assembly coupled to the battery pack to receive power. The lamp assembly includes a housing defining an opening extending along at least a portion of two sides and defining an enclosure, a light source within the enclosure and coupled to the battery pack to receive power, and a transparent cover sized to fit over the opening to seal the enclosure and to permit light to pass through in at least two directions. |
| US08708513B2 |
Device and system for illuminated apparel
A system for creating a lighted apparel design includes a light element and a securing member. The securing member has a base and a capture portion. The capture portion is located, at least in part, attached to the base and defines a capture region configured to releasably secure the light element therein. The securing member is secured to an associated apparel item and the light element secured in the capture region to create a lighted design on the apparel item. A lighted apparel item is also disclosed. |
| US08708512B2 |
Backlight system
The present invention provides a backlight system, which includes an LED light source, a back frame, and a PCB. The LED light source comprises an LED lamp and an LED substrate. The LED substrate includes, sequentially stacked, a first conductor wiring layer, a first insulation layer, an aluminum substrate, a second insulation layer, and a second conductor wiring layer and the LED lamp is mounted on the first conductor wiring layer. The back frame carries the LED light source and includes at least two primary assembling pieces. The at least two primary assembling pieces are joined to form a main frame structure of the back frame. The PCB is disposed on the second conductor wiring layer of the LED substrate. The backlight system of the present invention can reduce the cost of back frame mold and save the material and space of the back frame, so as to lower down the cost of the backlight system. |
| US08708511B2 |
Semiconductor light source apparatus and lighting unit
A semiconductor light source apparatus can emit various color lights having a substantially uniform color tone and high brightness. The semiconductor light source apparatus can include a radiating substrate, at least one phosphor layer disposed on the radiating substrate and a semiconductor light source emitting blue light. The at least one phosphor layer can be composed of at least one of a glass phosphor and a phosphor ceramic. The light source can be located adjacent the phosphor layer so that the blue light having high brightness can be efficiently reflected on the radiating substrate via the phosphor layer while preventing the blue light from a mirror reflection on the phosphor layer. Thus, the disclosed subject matter can provide a semiconductor light source apparatus that can emit various uniform color lights having high brightness and a lighting unit using the light source apparatus, which can be used for general lighting, vehicle lighting etc. |
| US08708509B2 |
Strobe device
Each of electrode terminals is provided with an electrode connection section connected to an electrode of an electric discharge tube. When an exterior member is mounted on a housing, a concave section of the exterior member abuts on the electrode connection section of the electrode terminal, to displace the electrode connection section in a direction in which the electrode of the electric discharge tube is held therein. Thus, the exterior member is mounted on the housing so that connection between the electrode of the electric discharge tube and the electrode connection section can be completed. Therefore, connection work can be significantly easily performed without requiring soldering and press fitting. |
| US08708507B2 |
Optical apparatus for magnifying a view of an object at a distance
The magnifying apparatus is based on two dimensional arrays of micro magnifying modules (MMMs) positioned along a plane perpendicular to the axis of the magnifying apparatus. In addition, the structure may include a two dimensional array of micro beam multipliers (MBMs) to improve the quality of the magnified image. The micro beam multipliers are positioned along a plane parallel to the array of micro magnifying modules. The structure also may include a two dimensional array of ray angle adjusters (RAAs) to extend the view angle. The ray angle adjusters are positioned along a plane parallel to the array of micro magnifying modules. The array of micro magnifying modules, with or without the micro beam multipliers and/or ray angle adjusters, may be constructed as a thin plate with a thickness of a few millimeters, through which the object is viewed. An object at a distance appears in the magnifying apparatus as a magnified image and the magnifying apparatus can be used for viewing an object at a distance in a way similar to the use of a conventional magnifier for viewing an object in a short distance. |
| US08708491B2 |
Method and system for measuring an eye
There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create a precise predetermined capsulotomy. The systems, apparatus and methods further provide laser systems that reduce the patient-to-patient variability and doctor-to-doctor variability associated with hand held apparatus for performing capsulorhexis and capsulotomies. There is further provided a precise predetermined shot pattern and shaped capsulotomy that is based at least in part on the shape of an IOL and in particular an accommodating IOL. |
| US08708490B2 |
Method and a device for automatically measuring at least one refractive characteristic of both eyes of an individual
A method for automatically measuring at least one refractive characteristic of both eyes of a person, includes: a) adjusting at least one position of a person's head, in a reference system connected to an image capture apparatus set up to convert each captured image into a signal representing the image; b) illuminating both eyes with at least one light source, whose position is known within the reference system; c) measuring at least one sight direction parameter connected to the sight direction of the person within a reference system connected to the head thereof; d) capturing at least one retinal reflection image from the light source onto the retina of both eyes; f) determining, from the captured image in Step d), the refractive characteristic of the eyes; and h) storing the sight direction parameter in relation to the predetermined refractive characteristic during the image capture in Step c). |
| US08708485B2 |
Method for providing a spectacle ophthalmic lens by calculating or selecting a design
A method for providing a spectacle ophthalmic lens to a wearer, the method comprising the following consecutive steps: measuring the visual acuity value(s), VA, of the eye(s) of the wearer or the binocular visual acuity value, VAbino, of both eyes of the wearer where the eye(s) of the wearer is (are) substantially free of low order aberrations or is (are) corrected of low order aberrations; calculating thanks to computer means a design of the spectacle ophthalmic lens or selecting a design in a spectacle ophthalmic lens design data base by adapting the management of residual astigmatism based on the measured visual acuity value(s) of the eye(s) of the wearer. |
| US08708477B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes: a liquid ejecting head having a nozzle opening for ejecting a liquid; a heating unit disposed opposite a liquid ejecting surface of the liquid ejecting head; a transport unit that transports a liquid-ejection-target medium between the liquid ejecting head and the heating unit; a blower unit that blows air onto a liquid-ejection-target surface of the medium; and a blowing control unit. The blower unit is able to vary an amount of air blown in a plurality of regions disposed along a certain direction, the plurality of regions including a region of the liquid-ejection-target medium, and the blowing control unit controls an amount of the air blown from the blower unit in the plurality of the regions along the certain direction on the basis of a width of the medium in the certain direction. |
| US08708475B2 |
Ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink, ink cartridge containing same, and image forming method and apparatus using same
An ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink including a radically polymerizable monomer including a methacrylate and no acrylate; and a photoradical generator. An ink cartridge including the ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink and a container containing the ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink therein. An image forming method including ejecting droplets of the ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink toward a recording material to form an image on the recording material; and irradiating the image with ultraviolet light to crosslink the image. An image forming apparatus including a recording device to eject droplets of the ultraviolet crosslinking inkjet ink toward a recording material to form an image on the recording material; and an ultraviolet irradiator to irradiate the image with ultraviolet light to crosslink the image. |
| US08708468B2 |
Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets
An image forming apparatus includes a recording head, head tanks, replaceable main tanks, liquid feed pumps, a first driving source, and a drive switching assembly. The feed pumps feed liquids from the main tanks to the head tanks and in reverse from the head tanks to the main tanks. The drive switching assembly selectively transmits a driving force of the first driving source to the feed pumps. The drive switching assembly includes a second driving source, a cam, a slider member, and a switching gear. The switching gear receives the driving force of the first driving source and is movable with the slider member between positions to engage driving gears of the feed pumps and a position to disengage from the driving gears. With movement of the switching gear, the driving force of the first driving source is selectively transmitted to the feed pumps. |
| US08708460B2 |
Piezoelectric actuator device and printer
There is provided a piezoelectric actuator device including a piezoelectric actuator which includes a plurality of piezoelectric elements, each of which has a piezoelectric layer sandwiched between two types of electrodes; and a plurality of driver ICs which drive the piezoelectric elements, wherein a part of the piezoelectric elements are connected to the plurality of driver ICs. |
| US08708455B2 |
Capping device and liquid ejection apparatus
A capping device including: (a) a cap structure is movable, relative to an object, in a contact direction toward a surface of the object so as to be brought into contact with the surface, for thereby covering the surface of the object; (b) a transmission mechanism configured to transmit, to the cap structure, a pressing force that causes the cap structure to be brought into contact with the surface; and (c) a support member supporting the transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is configured to restrain increase and reduction of the pressing force, such that the pressing force transmitted to the cap structure is held in a given amount range at least when a distance between the cap structure and the support member in the contact direction is in a given distance range while the cap structure is in contact with the surface. |
| US08708454B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes a fluid ejecting head and a fluid receiver. The fluid ejecting head has an ejection face in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting fluid is formed. The ejection face is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane. The fluid receiver receives the fluid discharged from the fluid ejecting head. The fluid receiver includes a holding portion that holds an absorbing member. The absorbing member absorbs the fluid. A fluid reservoir is formed in the fluid receiver. The fluid reservoir can contain the fluid, thereby offering a fluid-retaining function that is different from the retention of the fluid due to absorption by the absorbing member. |
| US08708451B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus includes a head for ejecting liquid, a cap unit for sealing an ejection surface of the head, a humidified air supply mechanism for performing a humidifying operation; a forcible discharge mechanism for performing a forcible discharge operation of forcibly discharging liquid from the ejection ports, a measuring unit for measuring a lapse time after a power supply becomes off and until the power supply becomes on, and a control unit for controlling the humidifying operation when the power supply becomes off, and controlling the forcible discharge operation when the power supply becomes on. When the power supply becomes on, the control unit controls the humidifying operation before performing the forcible discharge operation based on whether the lapse time measured by the measuring unit exceeds a predetermined time. |
| US08708449B2 |
Liquid ejection device and liquid testing method
A liquid ejection device includes a plurality of nozzles and a common ejection testing portion. The nozzles are arranged to eject a liquid. The common ejection testing portion is provided in common to the nozzles, the common ejection testing portion being arranged to perform ejection testing of each of the nozzles during printing. At least one of the nozzles is selected to be tested using the common ejection testing portion when the liquid is ejected from the nozzles based on print data. The nozzles that eject liquid being identified based on the print data, and one of the nozzles, which have not been tested, having low ejection frequency based on the print data being selected as the at least one of the nozzles to be tested. |
| US08708445B2 |
Printing device, printing method, and program
A printing device includes: a driving motor that applies a power rotating a roll body in which a medium is rolled; a driving roller that transfers the power of the driving motor to the roll body; a transport motor that applies a power transporting the medium; a transport roller that is provided further to the downstream side than the roll body in the transport direction of the medium; and a looseness acquiring unit that acquires an looseness between the driving roller and the transport roller. When the looseness is equal to or more than a predetermined looseness, the driving motor is controlled on the basis of the looseness acquired by the looseness acquiring unit. When the looseness is less than the predetermined looseness, the driving motor is controlled on the basis of tension between the driving roller and the transport roller. |
| US08708443B2 |
Element substrate, printhead, head cartridge, printing apparatus, and method for confirming electrical connection status of printhead and printing apparatus
An element substrate capable of independently confirming an electrical connection status with a logic power source without increasing costs due to increasing the number of terminals or the like. The element substrate includes a connection status output circuit that outputs a signal in response to a connection status of a logic power source input terminal, or a connection status of input terminals of each of a print signal, a clock signal, a drive signal, and a latch signal, and a connection status output terminal that outputs an output signal from the connection status output circuit. |
| US08708438B2 |
Printer having energy storage device
A printer includes an energy storage device and a charger for charging the energy storage device and for providing a first DC voltage. The printer includes a first DC-to-DC voltage converter for converting the first DC voltage to a second DC voltage. The printer includes first printer electronics powered by the second DC voltage. |
| US08708435B2 |
Upper drawer insert
An insert drawer arrangement attachable to an existing drawer of a file cabinet to define a raised second storage compartment. The arrangement includes an insert drawer provided with end panels which are disposed sidewardly adjacent separate mounting panels, the latter being mounted on the end walls of the existing drawer. The sidewardly adjacent end and mounting panels have a horizontal guide structure cooperating therebetween to enable the insert drawer to be horizontally moved from a first position superimposed over the existing drawing into a second position wherein it is cantilevered outwardly beyond the existing drawer to permit access to the interior of the existing drawer. |
| US08708429B2 |
Hydraulic braking assembly for a vehicle comprising a hydraulic fluid level sensor
A hydraulic braking assembly (14) for a vehicle comprising an electric servomotor (15), a master cylinder (16), a hydraulic fluid tank (17) mounted on the master cylinder, a hydraulic fluid level sensor (25) situated inside the fluid tank and monitoring the hydraulic fluid level inside the tank. The fluid level sensor is connected from the tank to the computer of the electric servomotor by a cable (26). |
| US08708425B2 |
Bimetallic casting
A method of forming a casting includes providing a preform to a mold cavity. The preform is formed from one of a first metal and a second metal and defines an interface surface. A molten portion of the other of the first metal and the second metal is cast into the mold such that the molten portion proximately contacts the interface surface of the preform. An interface layer at the interface surface, a first portion defined by the mold cavity and the interface layer, and a second portion defined by the interface layer, are formed during casting. The interface layer may define a metallurgical bond between the first portion and the second portion. In the non-limiting example provided herein, the first portion is substantially comprised of aluminum and the second portion is substantially comprised of magnesium. In a non-limiting example, the casting may be configured as a vehicle wheel. |
| US08708424B2 |
Interface fitting for a cycle wheel and a cycle wheel comprising a rim, a tire, and such fitting
A cycle wheel that includes a rim and a tire, having a width S, the rim including a rotational body whose cross section includes a main portion, having a width L greater than the width S, and a peripheral portion which is radially positioned outside of the main portion and which includes an annular cavity in which the tire is partially received. The outer surface of the wheel is comprised of the portions of the tire and of the rim facing outward of the wheel. The wheel further includes an interface fitting in contact with the rim and the tire, the interface fitting being positioned in a groove, one side wall of which is a portion of the outer surface of the tire and the other side wall of which is a portion of the outer surface of the rim. The interface fitting constitutes an intermediate portion of the outer surface of the wheel, the fitting being a deformable portion distinct from the tire and the rim, and at least 40% of the volume of the interface fitting being comprised of a hollow space. |
| US08708423B2 |
Customizable modular brush system and method thereof
A system and method that utilizes modular components to form a customizable brush for different applications with ease and at a low cost. The system and method utilizes three main components: a base, a plurality of rails, and a plurality of strip brush elements. The plurality of rails is fastened to the base and the plurality of rails holds the strip brush elements to the base to form a brush. All three components may be made of a thermoplastic or thermoset, non-metallic material which can be either rigid or flexible to allow the resulting brush to be easily recyclable. |
| US08708422B1 |
Inherently safe in situ uranium recovery
An in situ recovery of uranium operation involves circulating reactive fluids through an underground uranium deposit. These fluids contain chemicals that dissolve the uranium ore. Uranium is recovered from the fluids after they are pumped back to the surface. Chemicals used to accomplish this include complexing agents that are organic, readily degradable, and/or have a predictable lifetime in an aquifer. Efficiency is increased through development of organic agents targeted to complexing tetravalent uranium rather than hexavalent uranium. The operation provides for in situ immobilization of some oxy-anion pollutants under oxidizing conditions as well as reducing conditions. The operation also artificially reestablishes reducing conditions on the aquifer after uranium recovery is completed. With the ability to have the impacted aquifer reliably remediated, the uranium recovery operation can be considered inherently safe. |
| US08708420B2 |
Bulk material handling vehicle
A vehicle including a chassis (50) and a load carrying container supported thereon, the container arranged for pivotable movement relative to the chassis of the vehicle to discharge material from the container in a lateral direction to a side of the chassis, the container including a lower container body (25) and an upper container body (4) mounted thereto for operable movement with fespect to said lower container body to provide a selectively openable discharge passage e.g., via openable side discharge door (32), between the upper and lower container bodies when the upper and lower bodies pivot with respect to one another. |
| US08708419B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat includes a seat cushion, a seat back, a reclining adjustment mechanism and a seat-position adjustment mechanism. The seat is connected to the seat cushion. The reclining adjustment mechanism adjusts an inclination angle of the seat back with respect to the seat cushion. The reclining adjustment mechanism includes a reclining operating part which is disposed on the seat cushion in a vicinity of a connecting part between the seat cushion and the seat back. The seat-position adjustment mechanism adjusts a position of the seat cushion in a forward/rearward direction. The seat-position adjustment mechanism includes a seat-position operating part which is disposed on the seat cushion below the reclining operating part within a range of a length of the reclining operating part. |
| US08708418B2 |
Vehicle seat and method of manufacturing the same
A vehicle seat is provided. The vehicle seat includes: a planar elastic body that has a frame body provided in a periphery of the planar elastic body, the planar elastic body stretched to the frame body; a cushion member disposed around the planar elastic body; and a backbone member, wherein a supporting surface configured to support a seated person is formed by the planar elastic body and the cushion member, the planar elastic body is assembled to the seat by fixing the frame body to the backbone member, and the cushion member is disposed to be overlaid on the periphery of the planar elastic body at a supporting surface side, the cushion member is covered by a skin material that is attached on the planar elastic body at the supporting surface side. |
| US08708414B2 |
Travel headrest
A travel headrest comprises a right side and a left side. The right side of the headrest includes a right side occipital support portion and a right side mandible portion which extends outwardly from the right side occipital support portion. When a person leans against the right side occipital portion the right side mandible support portion exerts a force against the person's mandible and thereby provides support to the mandible. The left side of the headrest includes a left side occipital support portion and a left side mandible portion which extends outwardly from the left side occipital support portion. When a person leans against the left side occipital portion the left side mandible support portion exerts a force against the person's mandible and thereby provides support to the mandible. |
| US08708411B2 |
Vehicle seat
A seat back frame includes: a base frame; a movable frame supported for movement in a frontward-rearward direction with respect to the base frame; and a biasing member biasing the movable frame frontwardly and permitting a rearward movement of the movable frame in response to a load having a given value or more. The base frame has an upper frame section supporting a headrest, and two side frame sections extending in an upward-downward direction on laterally opposite sides of the upper frame section. The movable frame has a back-receiving section located between the side frame sections, and two side support sections on laterally opposite sides of the back-receiving section to project forward from the side frame sections. Front ends of the side support sections are disposed to stop a rear surface of the pad that receives a rearward load from a back of an occupant. |
| US08708406B1 |
Chair device for accommodating a user's stomach, neck, and body
A chair device for providing comfort to a individual such as a pregnant woman comprising a first, second, and third panel, wherein the first panel is pivotally connected to the second panel and the third panel is pivotally connected to the second panel opposite the first panel; legs for supporting the panels; a first hole disposed in the second panel for accommodating a user's stomach (a pregnant woman's stomach) when she lies on her stomach; a second hole disposed in the first panel for accommodating the user's face; a shelf hanging downwardly from and generally parallel to a bottom surface the first panel, wherein the shelf may be used as a book shelf, wherein the shelf is attached via an attachment means; the shelf can move between first position where the shelf hangs below the bottom surface of the first panel and a second position where the shelf flipped over a top surface of the first panel. |
| US08708400B1 |
Translating cargo bed
A vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a plurality of wheels and a cargo bed assembly. A cargo bed translation mechanism is operable between the vehicle frame and the cargo bed to translate the cargo bed between a range of positions including a first transport position, a plurality of raised position a variety of loading positions. A cargo bed dumping mechanism is operable for tipping the cargo bed to dump the contents of the cargo bed at least from the transport position and the raised positions. |
| US08708396B2 |
Glass indexing system and method
A system and method is provided to index the door window glass of a vehicle to disengage the glass from the window sealing interface prior to opening the door. A door latch including an unlatching lever selectively connectable to the inside and outside door handles is configured such that moving either handle to actuate the latch causes an initial change in the position of the unlatching lever prior to latch release. A sensor in the latch detects the initial change in position of the unlatching lever and signals an indexing mechanism to move the glass to the indexed position prior to latch release, such that the glass does not substantially interfere with the sealing interface when the door is moved from a closed position. The system may be configured such that the door lock mechanism must be unlocked prior to the indexing mechanism moving the window to an indexed position. |
| US08708391B2 |
Liner systems
A system relating to lining heavy-material hauling and processing equipment comprising a plurality of magnetically attached liner panels installed without the need to drill or otherwise alter the truck bed or device being lined. |
| US08708390B2 |
Vehicle-body structure of vehicle and manufacturing method of the same
In a vehicle-body structure of a vehicle which comprises vehicle-body forming members forming a closed-section portion and having a dent portion which dents toward an inside of the closed-section portion, and a reinforcing member provided in the closed-section portion and joined to the vehicle-body forming members, a joint portion of the vehicle-body forming members and the reinforcing member includes a rigid joint portion where the vehicle-body forming members and the reinforcing member are joined with a direct contact thereof and a flexible joint portion where the vehicle-body forming members and the reinforcing member are joined via a damping member provided therebetween, and this joint portion is provided at or in the vicinity of the dent portion. |
| US08708387B2 |
Console box
A console box is made of resin, is elongate in the vehicle front-rear direction, and can be installed on a floor panel. An upper component forms a top face and a front wall on the vehicle front side, and has, in the top face near the front wall, a drink holder that is recessed downward. A lower component forms side walls and on both sides in the vehicle width direction and a rear wall on the vehicle rear side. The lower component has a link portion that extends between and links the inner faces of the side walls and below the drink holder. The link portion is fixed with bolts and to the floor panel, and a lower face at a bottom of the drink holder has a clip that connects the drink holder to the link portion. |
| US08708376B2 |
Medium connector
A medium connector including a passage configured to allow for the flow of medium, and a multi-portion engagement surface positioned about the passage. The multi-portion engagement surface includes a first surface portion, and a second surface portion. The first surface portion is configured to provide an interference fit with a corresponding sealing surface of a mating connector. The second surface portion is configured to provide a clearance fit with the corresponding sealing surface of the mating connector. The ratio of the first surface portion and the second surface portion is selected to regulate an engagement force between the medium connector and the mating connector. |
| US08708375B2 |
Plug connection
A plug connector for media-bearing lines has a plug body for connecting to an opening. At least one rib is provided on the plug body, the rib being retained in the opening in the assembly position of the plug body by a retaining clip adjustable on the plug body. An assembly force acts on the retaining clip, the clip being supported on at least one rib of the plug body, thereby displacing the plug body into the opening, and locking therein in an undercut. |
| US08708369B2 |
Towed vehicle protection device
A protection device for a towed vehicle. The protection device includes a moveable support. The moveable support is adapted to be coupled with a towing vehicle member. A fixed support is adapted to be coupled with a towed vehicle member. A flexible material is coupled between the moveable support and the fixed supports. A biasing device is coupled with the moveable support. The biasing device allows the moveable support to move and maintains the flexible material in a taut condition. |
| US08708368B2 |
Gas generator
The present invention provides a gas generator including a housing provided with a diffuser shell and a closure shell, an ignition device, the diffuser shell being in a substantially cup-like shape and having an annular bent portion obtained by bending a circumferential wall portion at an opening inwardly, the closure shell being in a substantially annular shape having a annular plate portion that includes a annular curved portion projecting toward the inside of the housing, the ignition device being fixed to a central hole in the annular plate portion with a resin, an inner circumferential part of the annular plate portion in the closure shell abutting against the resin, an outer circumferential part of the annular plate portion abutting against and being fixed to the annular bent portion of the diffuser shell. |
| US08708364B2 |
Collapsible two seat perambulator
A buggy for transporting children has a frame (3a, 3b, 5) and wheels (9) that are rotatably mounted relative to the frame to support the frame above a ground surface. A primary seat (8) is operatively supported by the frame for supporting a first child. A secondary seat (17) is operatively supported by the frame for supporting a second child. The buggy is convertible between an in use configuration for transporting children and a folded storage configuration, whether or not the secondary seat is attached. The secondary seat may be detachable. The secondary seat may be positioned at least partly behind and at least partly below the primary seat. |
| US08708363B1 |
Folding walker
A folding walker includes a first frame of two parallel main supports separated by a horizontal cross bar. An inverted U-shaped second frame has one leg pivotally affixed to each main support of the first frame and pivotal between an extended operable position and a folded storage position. At least one brace extends from an intermediate portion of a leg of the second frame and is pivotally affixed thereto, and an upper end of the brace is slidably attached to an upper portion of one of the main supports of the first frame. At least one tension brace extends between a lower portion of one of the main supports of the first frame and one of the legs of the inverted U-shaped second frame. The tension brace is intermediately hinged wherein a first segment of the tension brace is pivotal with respect to a second segment of the tension brace. |
| US08708354B2 |
Caster skateboard
This skateboard invention has novel swiveling caster wheels mounted on a cross carriage (axle) holding spaced apart swivel caster wheels in place on the undersurface of the board by fixed in place fastening brackets. Dual front and dual rear caster wheels—two in front and two in the rear—as well as a three caster wheeled skateboard is disclosed. Inwardly directed axle stubs (angled toward the center of the board, front and back) are employed with said stubs holding long front and long rear caster arms with wheel hubs supported by the long caster arms. A centering movement for the cross axles—whether front and/or rear—and each caster wheel is disclosed such that the cross axle and/or wheel returns itself to an initial straight line position. |
| US08708352B2 |
Cabinet structure configurations for infusion systems
A cabinet structure for an infusion system includes a platform, on which the system is mounted, and a shell surrounding an interior space, which contains at least a portion of the system. The shell preferably includes an opening that is sized and oriented to allow a lowering of a radioisotope generator, for the system, into the interior space, and a lifting of the generator out from the interior space. The shell may further include another opening, located at a higher elevation than the aforementioned opening, in order to provide access to a waste bottle of the infusion system. |
| US08708349B1 |
Portable transfer apparatus for moving items
The disclosed technology is a configurable column tool configured for moving items from a first elevation to a second elevation such as moving an item from a pallet to a shelf. The configurable column tool is further associated with a transporter, such as a rider lift, said transporter configured to transport a transport-device, such as pallet, from one location to another and perhaps raise/lower such transport-device for stacking. The configurable column tool is mechanically associated with the transporter so that the transporter can move the configurable column tool from a first location to a second location and perhaps raise/lower the configurable column tool. The configurable column tool is configured with one of a plurality of tool attachments, one such attachment being clamping device. |
| US08708348B2 |
Shopping trolley
This invention relates to a shopping trolley having castors and a handle, the surface of which consists of plastic. The surface of the handle consists of one or more different materials, at least one of said materials having conductive properties. |
| US08708346B2 |
Rotary tool including a collet
A collet for connecting a rotary tool to a rotary tool driver, the rotary tool including a shaft having a shaft end and a shaft diameter includes a body including a first end configured to connect to the rotary tool driver and a second end configured to receive the rotary tool. A magnet is disposed within the body and is positioned to magnetically engage and contact the shaft end to inhibit movement of the rotary tool along a shaft rotational axis. A support member is disposed within the body and is configured to support the shaft for rotation about the shaft rotational axis. |
| US08708344B2 |
Sealed assemblies and methods of unsealing same
A sealed assembly includes a first component having a first flange, and a second component having a second flange matable with the first flange. The sealed assembly also includes a sealant disposed between and along the first flange and the second flange such that the first component is sealingly mated to the second component. The sealed assembly further includes a wire disposed within the sealant, wherein the wire is configured for unsealing the second component from the first component. A method of unsealing the sealed assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08708339B2 |
Game machine
A game machine includes: an entertainment button that can move up and down from a normal operation position to a protruding position; an assigned object determining part that determines an assigned object; a prize determining part that determines a prize to be given to a player, when the assigned object determining part determines an assigned object; a prize display part that displays a prize symbol corresponding to the prize determined by the prize determining part; a movement determining part that determines whether or not to move the entertainment button from the normal operation position to the protruding position; a drive control part to move the entertainment button from the normal operation position to the protruding position, when the movement determining part determines to move the entertainment button from the normal operation position to the protruding position; and a push operation detecting part that detects the entertainment button being pushed down. |
| US08708337B2 |
Dual flip over roll inverter
Provided herein is sheet inverter apparatus which includes a diverter gate which diverts the sheet to one of at least two paths, a first paper path, and a second paper path. The first and second path each include a rotatable nip assembly, the rotatable nip assembly including a nip drive roll and a nip idler roll positioned so as to define a nip therebetween, the nip serving as a rotatable axis around which the nip drive roll and the nip idler roll rotate to invert the sheet. |
| US08708333B2 |
Medium feeding device and recording apparatus
A medium feeding device includes a first feeding unit feeds the medium to be fed to a downstream side of a feeding direction. A second feeding unit then feeds the medium to a upstream side and a downstream side on the basis of a feeding direction of the first feeding unit. A friction member is positioned opposite to the first feeding unit. A displacement member converts between a first state in which the displacement member protrudes upwardly in a stacked direction with respect to the friction member and a second state in which the displacement member retracts downwardly. The displacement member is set as the second state when one remaining sheet of the medium is fed to the downstream side by the first feeding unit, and the displacement member is set as the first state when a trailing end of the one remaining sheet passes through the friction member. |
| US08708331B2 |
Sheet supplying apparatus
A sheet supplying apparatus includes a feed roller, a sheet receiving plate, a lifting member, an urging member, and a cam. The sheet receiving plate is configured to pivot between a nearby position where the sheet receiving plate is disposed near the feed roller and a remote position where the sheet receiving plate is disposed remote from the feed roller. The lifting member is configured to pivot between a first position where the sheet receiving plate is in the nearby position and a second position where the sheet receiving plate is in the remote position. The urging member is configured to urge the lifting member from the second position toward the first position. The cam is configured to contact and move the lifting member from the second position to the first position when the feed roller feeds a sheet, and to move the lifting member to the second position again. |
| US08708328B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming system
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet stacking unit, a suction conveyance unit configured to convey an uppermost sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit, a suction unit configured to adsorb the sheets onto the suction conveyance unit, and an adsorption completion detection unit. In the sheet feeding apparatus, when the tab-attached sheets are stacked on the sheet stacking unit and fed such that their tab portions are on the downstream side in a sheet feeding direction, the suction unit starts to adsorb the sheet and the suction conveyance unit starts to convey the sheet immediately after the adsorption completion detection unit detects the completion of the adsorption. When the sheets other than the tab-attached sheets are fed, the suction unit previously adsorbs the sheet onto the suction conveyance unit, and the suction conveyance unit starts to convey the sheet in response to the sheet feeding signal. |
| US08708327B2 |
Paper sheet handling machine
A paper sheet handling machine includes: a storage unit 30 for storing therein paper sheets P in a batch form; a kicker roller 2 for providing drive force to the paper sheet P located in the lowest position, among the paper sheets P in the batch form, by rotating; a gate mechanism 5 for grasping each paper sheet P provided with the drive force by the kicker roller 2, and feeding out the paper sheet P along a feed out plane; and a pressing member 11 for pressing, from above, the paper sheets P stored in the storage unit 30. The gate mechanism 5 includes a feed roller 3 provided to the storage unit 30, and a gate member 4 provided to be opposed to the feed roller 3. Further, a guide roller 10, which is rotatable in a feeding direction of the paper sheets P, is provided to a bottom end of the pressing member 11. |
| US08708317B2 |
Venturi tube for shower head
A Venturi tube device is provided with a Venturi tube; a hollow cylindrical fitting; a shroud; and a hollow, cylindrical flow guide member disposed in the Venturi tube. In a showing operation, air can flow through one communicating hole of the shroud, a space defined by two adjacent ridges on the fitting, a conic hole between the two adjacent ridges, and a transverse hole of the Venturi tube in addition to water flowing through the flow guide member and the Venturi tube. |
| US08708315B2 |
Electric mining shovel hoist rope impact-reduction box
Disclosed is an impact-reduction box through which the hoisting ropes of a mining shovel or other machine pass. The impact-reduction box includes a roller frame subassembly and spring box subassemblies attached thereto on either side. The impact-reduction box is configured so that when the hoisting cables impact the box during undesirable whipping, the roller frame subassembly will move in reaction while the spring box subassemblies will remain essentially motionless. The mining shovel will feel less of the impact of the jolting hoisting rope, and the rope will not suffer the wear and tear of frequent slapping against the machine such that the rope will be less likely to completely break. |
| US08708314B2 |
Gambrel device
A gambrel device includes a gambrel frame of a generally tri-angular shaped plate construction of steel or similar strength material that includes a top apex, oppositely disposed base apexes and a substantially flat back surface. A winch is mounted to a front surface of the gambrel frame and includes an electric motor and a winch drum operatively connected to the electric motor for driving the winch drum. A rigging cable extends from the winch drum and is threaded through an eyelet disposed at the top apex of the gambrel frame. The rigging cable may be secured to an existing structure and the winch is operated to hoist and suspend the gambrel frame from the structure. Further, the gambrel device may be utilized as a skid to relocate an animal by dragging the animal across a ground surface. |
| US08708310B2 |
Flooring installation tool with adjustable shoe
A flooring installation tool includes a base having a bottom surface configured to engage a top surface of a flooring material, and a shoe having a connection portion and a vertical surface engaging portion. The connection portion is movably connected to a gear housing supported by the base, and the vertical surface engaging portion is configured to engage a vertical surface of the flooring material. An adjuster is configured to selectively hold the shoe relative to the base in a first position or in a second position that is different from the first position. |
| US08708309B2 |
Self-aligning spring seat for fluid regulator and fluid regulator comprising self-aligning spring seat
A spring seat for self aligning a bias-open or bias-close spring is disposed within a tubular control element of a gas regulator and designed to reduce side loading of the spring, which can cause the spring to prematurely fail. The spring seat can comprise a spring seat adaptor and a seat ring. The spring seat adaptor is fixed inside of the tubular control element and the seat ring is movably mounted on the spring seat adaptor via a ball and socket type joint. The movable seat ring is engaged by the spring and adapted to be self-aligned through three-dimensional displacement relative to the spring seat adaptor via the ball and socket joint. |
| US08708308B2 |
Sealing arrangement for a diaphragm valve
A diaphragm valve is disclosed. The diaphragm valve includes a valve body including a housing defining a fluid flow passageway and a valve seat. A bonnet assembly including a housing is mounted to the valve body. A diaphragm, a backing cushion and a resilient member are positioned between the bonnet assembly and the valve body. The resilient member is sandwiched between the housing of the bonnet assembly and the backing cushion for urging the backing cushion toward the diaphragm, thereby urging the diaphragm against the valve body. |
| US08708298B2 |
Supporting apparatus
The instant disclosure relates to a supporting apparatus for adapting to a flat electronic device. The supporting apparatus includes a pedestal and a carrying seat movably disposed thereon. The carrying seat includes a main body, a blocking member, and a bearing member. A sliding surface is formed on the main body. The blocking member is disposed on the main body, and a blocking surface is formed on the blocking member facing the sliding surface. The sliding surface and the blocking surface are arranged in gradual convergence. The bearing member is slidably disposed on the sliding surface and is separated from the blocking member. The bearing member is movable along the sliding surface in adjusting the distance between the bearing member and the blocking member. The flat electronic device is clipped fixingly by the bearing member and the blocking member on opposite sides thereof. |
| US08708286B2 |
Swing tip assembly rotation joint
A rotation joint and methods for rotationally coupling a swing tip assembly to a fluid-dynamic body are presented. A rotation plate configured to couple to the swing tip assembly comprises a slide ring comprising an open center, an upper slide surface, an inner slide surface, and a lower slide surface. An upper joint plate is slidably coupled to the upper slide surface and the inner slide surface is configured to couple the fluid-dynamic body. A lower joint plate is slidably coupled to the lower slide surface and the inner slide surface, and is coupled to the upper joint plate through the open center. The lower joint plate is configured to couple to the fluid-dynamic body. |
| US08708283B2 |
Pitch control valve in an aircraft store ejector system
An aircraft store ejector systems and subsystems thereof. Embodiments can include a two-reservoir re-pressurization system wherein a remote reservoir is used to maintain desired pressure in a local ejector reservoir. The system can include a release valve having a vent valve and valve piston. The release valve can control release of pressurized gas to a pitch control valve. The pitch control valve can be configured to distribute the pressurized gas between two or more ejector piston assemblies. One or more of the ejector piston assemblies can include multiple concentric piston stages and piston chambers, the piston chambers configured to contain a volume of gas. The ejector piston assemblies can be configured to compress the volume of gas within the piston chambers as the piston stages are extended out from the aircraft. Such compression can provide a return force to the piston stages. |
| US08708279B2 |
Composite structural member with progressive rigidity
A composite structural member with fiber reinforcement comprising a plurality of layers oriented relative to a longitudinal direction of said member in directions including 0°, 90° and +/−θ, the relative proportion of layers in one of these orientations being variable along a transverse direction of said member so as to spatially adjust the rigidity of the member according to a defined distribution of mechanical stresses along this transverse axis. The rigidity of the member is adapted locally to the stress system so as to dissipate the force flux over the entire volume of said member. |
| US08708277B1 |
Method and apparatus for automated launch, retrieval, and servicing of a hovering aircraft
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an apparatus configured to automatically retrieve, service, and launch an aircraft. For retrieval, the aircraft drops a weighted cable, and pulls it at low relative speed into a broad aperture of the apparatus. In certain instances, the cable is dragged along guiding surfaces of the apparatus into and through a slot until its free end is captured. The aircraft becomes anchored to the apparatus, and is pulled downward by the cable into a receptacle. Guiding surfaces of the receptacle adjust the position and orientation of a probe on the aircraft, directing the probe to mate with a docking fixture of the apparatus. Once mated, the aircraft is automatically shut down and serviced. When desired, the aircraft is automatically started and tested in preparation for launch, and then released into free flight. A full ground-handling cycle is thus accomplished with a simple, economical apparatus. |
| US08708274B2 |
Transverse mounted gas turbine engine
A propulsion engine comprises a compressor, a combustor and a turbine arranged in flow series about a turbine axis. A shaft is coupled to the turbine along the turbine axis, and first and second propulsions fans are rotationally coupled to the turbine at opposite ends of the shaft. The first and second propulsion fans rotate substantially parallel to one another, and transversely with respect to the turbine axis. |
| US08708272B1 |
Landing gear door liners for airframe noise reduction
A landing gear door for retractable landing gear of aircraft includes an acoustic liner. The acoustic liner includes one or more internal cavities or chambers having one or more openings that inhibit the generation of sound at the surface and/or absorb sound generated during operation of the aircraft. The landing gear door may include a plurality of internal chambers having different geometries to thereby absorb broadband noise. |
| US08708271B2 |
Mandrel used for digital printing on can members
There is proposed a clamping mandrel for a rotationally symmetrical hollow body in the form of a beverage can integrally comprising a body portion and a bottom. Accurate coupling and precise control of the movement of the mandrel is to be transmitted to the hollow body. For that purpose there are provided a plurality of clamping segments forming an outwardly facing cylindrical clamping surface for engaging an inside surface of the hollow body. The clamping segments are radially movably guided. A force-transmission device arranged in the interior of the clamping mandrel is provided for synchronous control of the radial movement of the clamping segments. That provides for controlled precision movement of a hollow body clamped by the clamping device. |
| US08708268B2 |
Fishing reel
A fishing reel having a reel housing comprising a ring gear with a rod mount directly or indirectly attached to the ring gear and a spool positioned within the ring gear, a reel crank adapted to impart rotational movement to the spool, a line guide positioned radially outwardly from the spool, a flange hingedly attached to the spool, wherein the spool may be positioned in a first casting position wherein the axis of the spool is generally parallel to a fishing rod when the rod mount is mounted to the fishing rod; and wherein the spool is movable 90 degrees with respect to the flange to be positioned in a second reeling position, wherein the axis of the spool is generally perpendicular to a fishing line being retrieved upon line retrieval; and wherein as the reel crank is rotated the spool orbitally rotates within the ring gear. |
| US08708267B2 |
Device and method for a rolling a sheet of material for packaging, storage, shipment, and dispensing
A method and device for handling and deploying a sheet of material are provided. In a first version, a rigid rod is positioned within a flexible cylindrical core and the sheet is wrapped around the core. The rod is then removed from the core and the core and sheet may be folded and reshaped for storage or shipment. The core and sheet may then be unfolded and the sheet may be unwrapped from the core. The rigid rod may be positioned within the core after the core is unfolded and to enable easier removal of the sheet from the core. A dispenser may be provided that attaches to the core and/or the rod and enables an operator to unwrap the sheet from the core. The core may be sufficiently rigid to allow the dispenser to be coupled with the core and without positioning of a rigid rod within the core. |
| US08708257B2 |
Spray attachment with a separable holding part and spray head
The spray attachment has a holding part with a water guide that can be connected to a feed water pipe, and a spray head with an external housing. Said spray head and the holding part are fastened separably to each other by means of a coupling. Furthermore, the spray head can have switching options for producing different spray jets, and an illuminating means. |
| US08708248B2 |
Straw adapted for consumption of non-homogenous beverages
A straw is provided for drinking beverages which may contain pieces, fragments, chunks, etc., of food matter. The straw has one or more notches, cuts or recesses located near an end portion which facilitates fluid intake even in the presence of blocking material. |
| US08708240B2 |
RFID booster antennas, antenna modules, and increasing coupling
A transponder with an antenna module having a chip module and an antenna; a booster antenna having a first antenna structure in the form of a flat coil having a number of turns, an outer end and an inner end, and a second antenna structure in the form of a flat coil having a number of turns, an outer end and an inner end; the inner end of the second antenna structure connected with the outer end of the first antenna structure. The antenna module may be positioned so that its antenna overlaps one of the first antenna structure or the second antenna structure. An antenna module having two additional antenna structures is disclosed. Methods of enhancing coupling are disclosed. |
| US08708236B2 |
Encoded information reading terminal with user-configurable multi-protocol wireless communication interface
An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a microprocessor, a memory, an (EIR) device, and a wireless communication interface. The EIR device can be provided by a bar code reading device, an RFID reading device, and/or a card reading device. The EIR device can be configured to perform outputting raw message data containing an encoded message and/or outputting decoded message data corresponding to an encoded message. The wireless communication interface can comprise a radio frequency front end configured to perform receiving a first radio signal and/or transmitting a second radio signal. The radio frequency front end can be electrically coupled to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) which can be electrically coupled to the system bus and/or to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) which can be electrically coupled to the system bus. The microprocessor can be configured to execute a base-band encoder software program and/or a base-band decoder software program. |
| US08708235B2 |
Card reader
Disclosed is a card reader which has a comparatively simple construction and is capable of appropriately detecting whether or not a magnetic head for skimming has been attached thereto. A card reader is provided with: a magnetic head which reads magnetic data recorded on a card and/or records magnetic data onto a card; a card insertion unit which has an insertion opening into which a card is inserted formed therein; and a metal sensor (which detects that a foreign body containing metal material has been attached to the front surface side of the card insertion unit. The metal sensor is arranged in substantially the same position as the arrangement position of the magnetic head, in the width direction of the card. |
| US08708234B2 |
IC tag communication apparatus
An IC (Integrated Circuit) tag communication apparatus is capable of transporting a medium with an IC tag along a transportation path and communicating with the IC tag. The IC tag communication apparatus includes an antenna portion for communicating with the IC tag. Further, the transportation path includes a low dielectric region arranged to face the antenna portion. |
| US08708231B2 |
Automated transaction machine
An automated retail terminal in which a plurality of goods and/or services are provided in an integrated system. The integrated system generally avoids duplicating hardware or functions in the course of delivering the goods or services offered, so for example in a combination ATM and Internet kiosk the same credit card or smart card reader is used for both the ATM and the Internet kiosk functions, the same control screen activates the ATM functions and the Internet functions, and etc. |
| US08708230B2 |
Biometric identification device with smartcard capabilities
A smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device integrates a smartcard reader with a biometric authentication component to provide secured access to electronic systems. The device allows for an individual to insert a smartcard into an aperture in the physical enclosure of the BPID Security Device, allowing the smartcard and the BPID Security Device to electronically communicate with each other. The BPID Security Device is based on a custom application specific integrated circuit that incorporates smartcard terminals, such that the BPID Security Device can communicate directly with an inserted smartcard. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the BPID Security Device is based on a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor, and may communicate with a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor smartcard receiver using a serial, USB, or other type of communication protocol. The device allows for enrolling a user's credentials onto the BPID Security Device and for authenticating an individual using the BPID Security Device. |
| US08708229B1 |
Systems and methods for customized deposit slips
Systems and methods for customized deposit slips are described. The system comprises a first module to receive an account selection from a user for a bank account, a second module to create a representation of a deposit slip customized with an account number for the account selection, and a third module to post the deposit to the bank account identified by the account selection. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08708228B2 |
Financial kiosk
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a system and method for cashing checks is disclosed. The system and method for cashing checks includes a financial kiosk for check cashing. The financial kiosk includes a processor-based platform for executing methods embodied in software programs incorporated in the system for check cashing. Further, an administrative processor in another location from the financial kiosk determines whether or not to cash the check. |
| US08708225B1 |
Systems and methods for electronic document delivery, execution, and return
To expedite electronic delivery and return of a document, the document is sent to an electronic mail system and stored in an electronic form thereat. The recipient is informed that the document is available thereto at any of a plurality of merchants where the document may be retrieved. The recipient visits one of the plurality of merchants and at the visited merchant retrieves the document in the electronic form from the mail system to a computing device at the visited merchant. The recipient then reviews and executes the document at the visited merchant, and sends the executed document in an electronic form to the organization by way of the visited merchant and the computing device thereat. |
| US08708219B2 |
Support arm positioning tab
A mailbox support attaching to a post includes an arm for supporting a mailbox at a given height, an opening for freely allowing the arm to slide over the post, and a tab flexibly extending into the opening and designed to limit movement of the arm relative to the post if the post is disposed within the opening. |
| US08708217B2 |
Carton and carton blank
A carton for packaging a plurality of articles includes top (214, 314) and bottom (218/220, 318/320) panels connected together by spaced side wall panels thereby forming a tubular structure and a set of end panels for at least partially closing each end of the tubular structure. Each set of end panels includes a pair of upper end closure panels (232a, 232b, 332a, 332b), a pair of lower end closure panels (226a, 226b, 326a, 326b) hinged to respective lower portions of the side wall panels respectively and a pair of securing panels (224a, 224b, 324a, 324b) hingedly connected to respective upper portions of the side wall panels respectively. The upper end closure panels (232a, 232b, 332a, 332b) are hingedly connected respectively to the securing panels by respective connecting panels (230a, 230b, 340a, 340b). The upper end closure panels are coupled to the lower end closure panels respectively. |
| US08708215B2 |
Solder ball supplying apparatus
Disclosed herein is a solder ball supplying apparatus including: a cartridge formed in a box shape and having a plurality of solder balls embedded therein; a vibration unit coupled to a lower portion of the cartridge; and a metal mask coupled integrally with a lower portion of the vibration unit and having a plurality of holes formed over the entire surface thereof. |
| US08708210B2 |
Method and force-limiting handle mechanism for a surgical instrument
A safety handle assembly for use with a surgical instrument having an operative distal end portion is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a handle housing and a drive element movably mounted within the handle housing and connected to an associated operative distal end portion. A drive assembly is positioned within the handle housing and is engageable with the drive element to move the drive element within the handle housing. An actuator is movably mounted on the handle housing and an adjustable force-limiting mechanism is interposed between the drive assembly and the actuator. A force-limiting mechanism releasably connects the actuator to the drive assembly. The force-limiting mechanism is adjustable to preset the force at which the actuator separates or breaks away from the drive assembly. |
| US08708208B2 |
Apparatus and method for separating dunnage from a pallet
An apparatus for separating dunnage from a pallet including a base plate for placement on a floor, a shearing surface positioned at a predetermined distance above the base plate, and means for securing the shearing surface to the base plate. The shearing surface includes a bottom edge which is substantially planar with the base plate. The base plate, bottom edge of the shearing surface, and the means for securing define an opening for passing a pallet therethrough. In a second aspect, a method is provided for separating dunnage from a pallet which includes providing the apparatus, and forcing the pallet through the opening, whereby the shearing surface separates the dunnage from the pallet when the pallet passes through the opening. |
| US08708204B2 |
Arrangement for controlling the flow out of a tundish
In continuous casting of steel, the flow out of the tap hole (11) in the tundish (10) is controlled by a stopper rod that is rotatable so as to give the molten steel a swirling motion. This rotation reduces the risk of deposits in the tap hole and in the discharge tube (12). A non-rotatable sleeve around the stopper rod (16) extends through the slag layer (18) and into the molten steel (17). Protective gas is supplied to the gap between the stopper rod (16) and the sleeve (30) to prevent air from being drawn through the gap and into the molten steel. |
| US08708201B2 |
Modular platen assembly for inductor pump
A modular platen assembly comprises an annular hub, a wiper ring assembly and a coupling ring. The annular hub is for connecting to a ram of an inductor pump. The wiper ring assembly includes an annular wiper for sealing with a container. The coupling ring is independently joined to the hub and the wiper ring assembly at first and second connections, respectively. |
| US08708199B2 |
Bulk dispensing system and method
A unified system, device and method for bulk dispensing a product in a safe and sanitary environment preventing micro and macro contamination, adulteration and product mix-up. The system comprises a bulk product dispenser having a discharge valve; a container/bag holding to-be-dispensed product in a UV-proof, fluid-impermeable, sealed environment, having a tear-tab adapted for releasing the product from outside the dispenser; and a containment device removably attachable with the discharge valve which measures and dispenses the product to the consumer. A containment device for bulk product dispensing comprises an inner containment receiving the product, having an inner tube, first coupling, bottom opening, and second coupling aligned with the bottom opening; and an outer valve portion enclosing the inner containment, comprising an outer tube, cap, spring and bottom closure with aperture(s), the spring between the first coupling and the cap, and providing resistance keeping the bottom closure against the second coupling. |
| US08708197B1 |
Portable refrigerator system
A portable refrigeration system having a refrigerator unit with a door surface, aperture surface, dispenser surface, and inner cavity, a door pivotally attached to the door surface which can move between an open and closed position allowing and preventing access to the inner cavity, the unit further having standard refrigeration components for cooling the inner cavity, a base, the unit is mounted atop the base such that a gap exists between the dispenser surface and base, a first, second, third and fourth aperture are in the aperture surface, a lid removably attached to the aperture surface functioning to temporarily cover the apertures, which can move between an open and closed position allowing and preventing access to the aperture, a dispenser on the dispenser surface having a first dispenser for water or liquid and a second dispenser for ice, and a plurality of control buttons on the unit. |
| US08708196B2 |
Ampoule protector and method of construction thereof
A fluid delivery device includes a compressible sleeve configured to hold a fluid-holding container such as an ampoule or capsule. The sleeve is compressible so as to be able to shatter the container under user-applied force to release the contents of the container for application to a desired location. The sleeve is constructed from at least two independent and separate walls. The independence of the walls improves the resistance of the sleeve to accidental puncturing by the frangible container while not significantly impacting the force required to shatter the container. |
| US08708195B1 |
Bifurcated alcoholic beverage dispenser and associated use thereof
A bifurcated alcoholic beverage dispenser for isolating a plurality of alcoholic mixtures in separate compartments before consumption preferably includes a bifurcated body having first and second ends each being independently opened from a closed position. A divider is disposed within the body. First and second compartments are located at proximal and distal portions of the body and isolated by the divider. A first fluid is housed within the first compartment, and a second fluid is housed within the second compartment. Advantageously, the first and second fluids are independently dispensed from the first and second compartments when the first and second ends are independently opened, respectively. |
| US08708190B2 |
Anti-sloshing apparatus
An anti-sloshing apparatus comprising: a plurality of buoyant members having buoyancy to be floated on the surface of liquid; a foam member having open cell structure to absorb the liquid and covering the buoyant member; and a connecting member to connect the adjacent buoyant members one another, allows effectively preventing liquid cargo sloshing. |
| US08708185B2 |
Supports for tanks
A support assembly mounted on the roof of a tank comprising a support block, a base plate between the support block and the tank, and guiding brackets or rails joined to a structure above the tank. The guiding brackets or rails comprise a face turned towards a cooperating face of the support block. The face of the bracket or rail and the cooperating face of the support block are inclined at an angle which depends on the width and height of the support block. |
| US08708184B2 |
Food container apparatus and method of using same
A food container system and method of using same is provided for heating, storing or cooling food placed within a container. The container system facilitates heating of food without dehydration of the food, and it permits cooling of the food, such as, for example, cooling in a refrigerator or cooling at room temperature after removal from a heating oven or microwave, without vapor lock preventing or making difficult the removal of a lid from a container in which the food is heated or cooled. The system comprises, in one aspect, a ceramic lid and a ceramic container to receive the lid, and a seal having a channel there through and disposed intermediate the ceramic lid and the ceramic container. In one aspect, the seal may comprise a heat-resistant silicon material. In one aspect, the same container system may be used, for example, to heat a food placed in the container, to serve the food at a dining table, and to store the food, or the remaining unconsumed portion of the food, in a refrigerator for later reheating and consumption. |
| US08708181B2 |
Lid with integrated container
Lid with integrated container(s) that couples with the top of a cup/can. The lid and cup/can form at least two containment volumes, Embodiments enable easy containment, inclusion of fresh food, transportation and access of solid or liquid in the container and cup/can without disengagement of the lid from the cup/can. Contents of the lid container may be accessed, partially consumed, replaced in the container and resealed at any time as desired by the user. Additionally, an independent drop-in container within the lid cavity may be resealed and removed from the lid cavity and taken to other locations such as home, work, or car. Simplifies eating and drinking from one unified container and cup in a theater or stadium having seats for example that provide one cup-holder per seat. Provides one free hand to hold a child's hand for safety while in stadiums and amusement parks. |
| US08708176B2 |
Quick access closure apparatus and methods of use
A quick access closure apparatus including a reusable bottle and lid that secure together. The bottle has at least one protrusion and the lid has a channel and ridge. |
| US08708174B2 |
Bottle teat
A bottle teat comprising: A nipple sleeve having a hollow nipple and a through-hole connected at the bottom to a hollow nipple sleeve which is connected at the bottom to a nipple flange that is connected to the nipple sleeve to be fastened to a bottle by a fastening ring which serves at the bottom with an annular disc-shaped ring flange overlapping the nipple flange, A contact area projecting downward or upward from the nipple flange, or from the nipple sleeve above the nipple flange outward into the area for placing a ring flange, and A lip valve that is opened when the nipple flange is not fastened to a bottle arranged in a deforming area next to the contact area so that the deformation of the nipple flange that arises from pressing the fastening ring against the contact area closes the valve. |
| US08708170B2 |
Crane control for the control of a hoisting gear of a crane
The present invention relates to a crane control for the control of a hoisting gear of a crane which takes account of oscillation dynamics based on the elasticity of the hoist rope on the control of the hoisting gear and reduces them by a suitable control of the hoisting gear. |
| US08708169B1 |
Combination cabinet
A combination cabinet includes a plurality of upright posts, a plurality of crossbars arranged between the upright posts, a plurality of connectors mounted between the upright posts and the crossbars to connect the upright posts and the crossbars, and a plurality of rotation knobs mounted between the crossbars and the connectors. Thus, the upright posts and the crossbars are combined together by interaction of the connectors and the rotation knobs. In addition, when the crossbars are unlocked from the upright posts, the crossbars are moved freely relative to the upright posts to adjust the position of the crossbars relative to the upright posts. |
| US08708167B2 |
Combination guitar and amplifier stand
A combination guitar and amplifier stand has the ability to hold two guitars and a single 1×12 or 2×12 combination solid state or tube amplifier. The stand has been designed to hold a single piece of equipment without tipping over. The guitar holders allow the user to place their guitars in the holders when not in use. The bottom of the guitar's headstock will rest in the padded holders and the body of the guitar will rest against a padded bar located on the right and left hand side of the rack near the bottom. The amplifier is placed in the rack, located in the middle of the stand and the rack can be adjusted so that the amplifier rack can rest at either a 0° or a 45° angle. |
| US08708163B2 |
Spunbond polyester fiber webs
Provided are spunbond polyester mats using an improved curable composition. The curable composition comprises a reaction product of an amine and a reactant in the form of an amino-amide intermediate. To the amino-amide is added an aldehyde or ketone to form the curable binder composition. The composition when used as a binder in the mat is cured to form a water-insoluble binder which exhibits good adhesion and thermodimensional stability. |
| US08708162B2 |
Polymeric fiber webs with binder comprising salt of inorganic acid
Provided are nonwoven polymeric fiber webs using an improved curable composition. Such curable composition comprises an aldehyde or ketone and an amine salt of an inorganic acid. The composition when applied to polymeric fibers is cured to form a water-insoluble polymer binder which exhibits good adhesion and thermodimensional stability. |
| US08708158B2 |
Material separator
A material Separator with a hopper, a rigid helically shaped tubular pipe structure, an inlet port, a large particle outlet port and a small particle outlet port. The helically shaped tubular pipe structure connected to the underside of the hopper. The helical pipe structure has an internal false bottom. The false bottom is perforated so that particles that are larger than the perforations flow down the upper portion of the helical tubular pipe structure and material particles that are smaller than the perforations drop through the perforations and flow down the lower portion of the helical tubular pipe structure. The larger material particles exit the large particle outlet and the smaller material particles exit the small particle outlet. A preferred embodiment includes the helical tubular pipe structure is constructed of a plurality of curved pipe members, each having flanges at each end so that one the flanged curved pipe member can be bolted to the adjoining flanged curved pipe member. |
| US08708152B2 |
Iron ore separation device
Slurries of magnetic and nonmagnetic particles in water are treated in a high intensity magnetic separator including at least one turntable that defines at least one circular channel therethrough in which a matrix material is positioned. Rotation of the turntable in a generally horizontal plane about a generally vertical virtual axis causes the circular channel(s) to rotate through a plurality of magnetic and nonmagnetic zones generated by magnet members. Treatment slurry is directed into the channel(s) in one or more of the magnetic zones as the turntable rotates. A tailings fraction passing through the channel(s) in a generally downward direction in the magnetic zones is collected in tailings launders. Magnetic particles attracted to the matrix material in the magnetic zones remain in the channel(s) until they pass into an adjacent nonmagnetic zone, where the magnetic particles are washed from the channel(s) into concentrate launders. |
| US08708144B2 |
Adapter for wire dispensing carton
An adapter for inserting into a carton containing a non-reel coil of filamentary material or wire has a shaft-receiving sleeve supported by a box structure. The adapter's box structure has top and back walls joined at right angles and reinforced by side walls. Knobs extend outwardly from the side walls and have openings therethrough. Ribs on the underside of the top wall define a channel which is aligned with the openings in the knobs. The ribs, top wall and knobs define a sleeve which is oriented such that it may receive a shaft or rod of a wire pulling rack. Alternatively, said adapter having a box structure with walls only in two perpendicular planes. At least two of said walls forming a channel extending outwardly that may receive a shaft or rod. |
| US08708142B2 |
Housing for encasing an object
This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus and/or system for housing a device. The apparatus includes a housing that is configured such that a device may be fitted within the housing and thereby be protected, such as from shocks and/or liquid. The housing may include top and bottom members that may be removably coupled together so as to form the housing. Each top and bottom member optionally includes front and back surfaces surrounded by a perimeter. The perimeter is defined by proximal and distal ends as well as opposing sides. The top and bottom members may include respective clasping mechanisms that extend along the perimeter of the top and bottom members. The clasping mechanisms are configured for coupling the top and bottom members with one another thereby sealing the housing, for instance, in a shock-proof and/or water tight seal. |
| US08708141B1 |
Ultraviolet shields for eyes and kit therefor
An eye protection kit comprises a plurality of soft, smooth eye patches and an atomizer providing ultraviolet radiation protection for use while sunbathing or in a tanning bed is herein disclosed stored within a carrying case. The eye patches are each comprised of a textile material comprising reinforced perimeters. For personal comfort and to maintain moisture, the patches are wetted with a cooling fluid therefrom the atomizer. Further, the patches would be oversized, thus providing shielding to areas adjacent to the eye where skin lines often form and shielding below the eyes where sunbathers sometimes develop unflattering skin discolorization. |
| US08708125B2 |
Clutch and motor
A clutch is provided that includes an annular clutch housing, a driving-side rotor, a driven-side rotor having a control surface, and a rolling element located between the inner circumferential surface of the clutch housing and the control surface. The control surface faces radially outward in the clutch housing. When the driving-side rotor rotates, the rotational driving force of the driving-side rotor is transmitted to the driven-side rotor. When the driving-side rotor is driven to rotate, the rolling element rotates together with the driven-side rotor. When the driving-side rotor is not driven to rotate, the rolling element is held between the inner circumferential surface of the clutch housing and the control surface so as to prevent the driven-side rotor from rotating. |
| US08708124B2 |
Parking lock apparatus for transmission
A parking lock apparatus for a transmission including a meshing type clutch is provided in which when a parking lock is operated by engaging a parking pawl (43) with a parking gear (41) provided on a gear shaft of a transmission, since a parking rod (51) for operating the parking pawl (43) is provided on a shift rod (44) connected to and operated by an actuator (46) in order to establish a reverse gear position on the transmission, it is possible to establish the reverse gear position with a shift fork (48) by moving the shift rod (44) in one direction from the neutral position, and to carry out the operation of the parking lock automatically without requiring a special actuator by moving the shift rod (44) in another direction from the neutral position, thereby reducing the size and cost of the transmission by enabling the number of components, including the number of actuators (46), to be cut. |
| US08708123B2 |
Hydraulic pump assembly
One embodiment may include a system for distributing torque between front and rear axles of an all wheel drive vehicle and/or between left and right wheels of a two or four wheel drive vehicle comprises at least one limited slip coupling having a disc package and a piston acting thereon, the piston being actuated by a hydraulic pump assembly. This assembly has an electric motor, a hydraulic pump driven thereby, and a centrifugal regulator also driven thereby, the centrifugal regulator controlling a pressure overflow valve, connected to the oil outlet of the hydraulic pump. The assembly specifically comprises an axial piston pump having a piston drum rotatable in a pump housing and containing a number of reciprocable axial pistons, at least one centrifugal lever pivotally attached to the piston drum, and a valve member connected to the centrifugal lever and being arranged for cooperation with the mouth of an oil outlet bore in the piston drum to form the pressure overflow valve. |
| US08708121B2 |
Electronically activated clutch
The present invention employs an electronic control device which monitors and controls the extent of engagement of a friction clutch on a motor vehicle. The control device includes a variable controller which enables the operator of the motor vehicle to pre-select the extent or degree of engagement of the friction clutch. A switch enables the operator to activate the present invention and bypass the clutch lever which would normally be used to operate the friction clutch. A gauge indicates the degree of engagement of the friction clutch and a second switch enables the operator to disconnect the electronic control from operation of the clutch. |
| US08708112B2 |
Inertial braking system for a trailer
An inertial braking system for a trailer has an elongated casing member defining an axis along its elongated length, and having an opening at one end of the elongated length. A movable plate housed within the casing and including at least one opening adapted to allow light to pass therethrough. A piston member including a pad member at a distal end thereof and placed inside of the one end of the casing member with the pad member facing outwards from the interior of the casing member and adapted to move along the axis, and rigidly connected at an opposite end to an adjacent end of the movable plate. |
| US08708110B2 |
Brake device
The invention relates to a brake device for braking a moving brake body (2) by means of pressing a brake element (3, 4) onto the brake body (2), wherein a conversion device (7) is provided for converting a rotational movement of a brake drive shaft (9) into a translational movement of the brake element (4) in the direction of the brake body (2), wherein a rotary percussion mechanism (8) is connected between the brake drive shaft (9) and the conversion device (7). |
| US08708106B2 |
Elevator arrangement and method in elevator maintenance
An elevator arrangement, comprising an elevator car arranged to move in an elevator shaft or equivalent, preferably along car guide rails, and an element which is disposed in the elevator shaft or equivalent and is shiftable between an activated state and an inactivated state, and an activating device for shifting the said element between the activated and inactivated states. The activating device includes a flexible element, such as e.g. a rope or equivalent, movably attached to a fixed structure of the elevator shaft or equivalent, and the said flexible element is connected to the said shiftable element in a manner permitting the shiftable element to be shifted by means of the flexible element. |
| US08708103B2 |
Joints for a stand
An interconnect structure of a support apparatus. The interconnect structure includes a channel configured to receive a portion of a cross member. The interconnect structure further includes a pair of openings oriented relative opposite sides of the channel, each opening configured to receive a leg member of the support apparatus. The interconnect structure is a single-piece structure. |
| US08708102B2 |
Vehicle utility ladder
A ladder constructed for reaching an elevated surface or object and having a bow-shaped configuration so that the reach may extend further from the base on which the footing of the ladder rests, the ladder being configured to reach areas such as the roof of a vehicle. |
| US08708090B2 |
Power steering system for a vehicle provided with means for actuating the stop and start function in a moving vehicle, especially an industrial or commercial or special vehicle
The present invention relates to a power steering system for a vehicle provided with means for actuating the stop & start function in a moving vehicle, especially an industrial or commercial or special vehicle, said vehicle being equipped with hybrid drive of the parallel type, comprising a thermal engine (1), an electric motor-generator (2), a single clutch unit (3) placed between the two engines, a transmission system (6) comprising an automated manual transmission, the method comprising the steps of enabling of the stop phase, activation of the stop phase, maintaining of the stop phase, activation of the start phase, the system comprising a hybrid power steering with coupling of a hydraulic power steering controlled by the thermal engine, and an electric power steering controlled by a control system (EPS) of the electric power steering. |
| US08708089B2 |
Vehicle steering apparatus
A vehicle steering apparatus includes an actuator that generates a steering force, and a first speed reduction mechanism connected to the actuator. To the first speed reduction mechanism, a second speed reduction mechanism is connected. To the second speed reduction mechanism, a steering mechanism is connected. A sub-assembly including the actuator and the first speed reduction mechanism is configured. |
| US08708088B2 |
Hydraulic pump control arm and method
Adjustable control arms for dual path hydrostatic pumps have first and second arms interconnected by an eccentric mechanism with a common pivot point on a pivotal control input shaft for the pumps. The control arms are adjusted at a minimal pump output such as 500 r.p.m. by varying the eccentric to achieve equal r.p.m. The throw of the pump arms is adjusted at a maximum pump output r.p.m., such as approximately 4000 r.p.m., to achieve uniform tracking, steering, and directional control from the dual path hydrostatic pumps. |
| US08708077B2 |
Grille shutter apparatus
A grille shutter apparatus arranged at a grille opening portion at a frontal portion of a vehicle body includes a frame shaping a flow path of air flowing into the vehicle body from the grille opening portion, a movable fin rotationally supported by the frame and configured to control a flow amount of the air by providing an opening movement and a closing movement, the movable fin including a fin portion and rotary shafts rotationally supported by the frame, the rotary shafts including exposure portions configured to be arranged on the flow path of the air, at least one first shielding wall extending radially outward of the rotary shaft and provided at the exposure portion and a second shielding wall arranged at an upstream side of the air that flows in relative to the exposure portion extending in a direction intersecting a direction of the air that flows in. |
| US08708076B2 |
Automobile comprising an electric engine powered by a power supply module
The invention relates to an automobile, comprising an electric engine powered by a power supply module (10) to which a pipe (11) for extracting the hot air generated by said module is connected, and a structure including a floor (2) defining the lower portion of the vehicle passenger compartment. According to the invention, one of the ends (12) of said extraction pipe (11) is in communication with an opening (3) formed in the floor (2) of the vehicle. |
| US08708075B2 |
Front end structure for vehicle
A front end structure for a vehicle includes a facia member defining a forward end of an engine compartment of the vehicle and a radiator disposed in the engine compartment rearwardly spaced from the facia member. A duct member is interposed between the facia member and the radiator. The duct member at least partially blocks the radiator and defines a duct passage extending from an underside opening of the vehicle to the radiator. At least one duct opening is defined in the duct member for supplementing air flow to the radiator from the underside opening. |
| US08708067B2 |
Drill pipe
A drill pipe assembly includes an elongate drill pipe and a drill pipe extension. The elongate drill pipe has a first threaded end and a second threaded end. The drill pipe extension has a first threaded end and a second threaded end. The second threaded end matingly engaging the first threaded end of the elongate drill pipe. The first threaded end being adapted to matingly engage an additional component of a drill string. The drill pipe extension has an external upset. The external upset has recessed flow paths. |
| US08708054B2 |
Dual path subsea control system
A technique enables protection of subsea wells. The technique employs a subsea test tree and associated control system to ensure control over the well in a variety of situations. The subsea test tree may be formed with an upper portion releasably coupled to a lower portion. The upper portion employs at least one upper shut-off valve, and the lower portion employs at least one lower shut-off valve to protect against unwanted release of fluids from either above or below the subsea test tree. The subsea test tree also is coupled with the control system in a manner which allows control to be exercised over the at least one upper shut-often valve and the at least one lower shut-off valve. |
| US08708049B2 |
Downhole mixing device for mixing a first fluid with a second fluid
Methods and devices for mixing a first fluid with a second fluid downhole include a chamber having a first end, a second end and an opening for fluid to flow there through. A top surface of a perforated piston is capable of contacting the second end and a top surface of a piston is capable of contacting a bottom surface of the perforated piston. The perforated piston is located at a first position within the chamber based upon characteristics of a first fluid. A first fluid delivery system supplies the first fluid and a second fluid delivery system supplies a second fluid to the chamber, wherein the second fluid is at a pressure that moves the piston approximate to the first end. An actuating device applies a force against the bottom surface of the piston to inject the fluids through channels of the perforated piston to produce spray droplets. |
| US08708044B2 |
Process for consolidating sand
Method of treating a subterranean hydrocarbon-bearing formation comprising unconsolidated or poorly consolidated particulates, by contacting the formation with a solution or a dispersion of an organosilane which is a silylated polymer of formula (I): (RO)3-nRnSi-A-B-A-Si(OR)3-nRns (I) wherein each R is independently a substituted or unsubstituted, alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or a —C(O)R group where R is as hereinbefore defined; n is 0, 1 or 2; each A is a divalent organic radical; and B is a poly(oxyalkylene) linking group, a polyurethane linking group, or a poly(meth)acrylate linking group wherein the poly(oxyalkylene) linking group or the polyurethane linking group has a number average molar mass in the range of 600 to 20,000 g mol−1. The poly(meth)acrylate linking group has a number average molar mass in the range of 600 to 40,000 g mol−1. |
| US08708041B2 |
Method and system for using wireline configurable wellbore instruments with a wired pipe string
A wellbore instrument system includes a pipe string extending from earth's surface into a wellbore. At least a portion of the pipe string includes a signal communication channel having a cable, such as an electrical conductor or an optical fiber. At least one wireline configurable wellbore instrument is coupled to the pipe string and has at least one sensor therein for measuring a physical parameter. The at least one instrument is in signal communication with the signal communication channel in the pipe string. The system includes a controller functionally associated with the at least one instrument and configured to initiate operation of the at least one sensor upon detection of a command signal. |
| US08708039B2 |
Producing gas and liquid from below a permanent packer in a hydrocarbon well
The invention relates to an arrangement for positively pumping liquids to the surface of a hydrocarbon well where the hydrocarbon well has bee previously completed with a permanent packer and tailpipe. A rod pump having a plunger connected to a hollow rod string can positively pump the liquids collecting at the bottom of the well while the natural gas is produced up the annulus between the production tubing and the hollow rod string. In this invention, the tail pipe is perforated above the rod pump and below the packer to all the natural gas into the production tubing. |
| US08708033B2 |
Calcium titanate containing mold compositions and methods for casting titanium and titanium aluminide alloys
The disclosure relates generally to mold compositions comprising calcium aluminate and calcium titanate. The disclosure also relates to methods of molding and the articles so molded using the mold compositions. More specifically, the disclosure relates to calcium aluminate/calcium titanate mold compositions and methods for casting titanium-containing articles, and the titanium-containing articles so molded. |
| US08708031B2 |
Method and mold for casting thin metal objects
Provided herein are various embodiments of systems for casting thin metal plates and sheets. Typical embodiments include layers of mold cavities that are oriented vertically for casting the metal plates. In some embodiments, the mold cavities include a beveled edge such that the plates that are cast have a beveled edge. In some embodiments, the mold cavities are filled with a molten metal through an open horizontal edge of the cavity. In some embodiments, the mold cavities are filled through one or more vertical feed orifices. Further disclosed are methods for forming a thin cast metal plate or sheet where the thickness of the cast part is in a range from 0.005 inches to 0.2 inches, and the surface area of the cast part is in a range from 16 square inches to 144 square inches. |
| US08708030B2 |
Mold
A mold includes a first groove part and a second groove part. The first groove part extends with a constant length or a constant width from a center part to an outer circumferential part of the mold. The second groove part extends from a terminal end of the first groove part on an outer circumferential part side of the first groove part and merging with any portion of the first groove part. |
| US08708026B2 |
Telescopic traversing system for retractable window treatments
A variable length support rod apparatus for translational support of a window treatment, such as draperies, comprised of a support member formed of a plurality of transnationally engaged segments, the support member is infinitely configurable from a minimum contracted length to a maximum extended length through a translation of the plurality of segments toward or away from each other. A continuous flexible member is positioned along a pathway running between a first end and a second end of the support member. The support rod may be configured to any length between the minimum and maximum lengths and may be fixed to a support surface without an adjustment of the fixed length of the continuous flexible member. |
| US08708023B2 |
Cordless blind assembly
Disclosed is a cordless blind assembly, comprising an upper frame rod with two blind cord winders disposed at two opposing sides, a retracting rod disposed beneath the upper frame rod, and two side guiding rails. A plurality of guiding components are disposed at the ends of the retracting rod. The driving cords from the blind cord winders connect to corresponding guiding components by going around both sides of the blind shading parts. The extended driving cords are hidden inside the side guiding rails where the guiding components can freely move inside the corresponding side guiding rails. Accordingly, the cordless blind assembly can avoid neck-strangling accidents to achieve easy DIY installation without breaking the function of the blind shading parts. |
| US08708022B2 |
Label peeling unit and label printer
A label peeling unit having an installation body: a movable body movable while engaging with the installation body and stopping in a closed state or an open state in which the movable body is closed or open relative to the installation body; a label peeling body installed on the movable body and allowing backing paper of a continuous label body, which is conveyed by the paper sheet conveyance device, to be in contact with the label peeling body to bend the backing paper for peeling a part of a label off the backing paper; and a backing paper conveyance roller rotatably installed on the movable body and rotating while being in contact with a platen roller of the paper sheet conveyance device with the backing paper in between to thereby convey the backing paper and discharge it to the outside. The label peeling unit facilitates loading of paper sheets. |
| US08708021B2 |
Heating apparatus and implemented body manufacturing method
To improve the tact time of a heating apparatus, provided is a heating apparatus comprising a first pressing member that heats a heating target; a second pressing member that includes an elastic body, and sandwiches the heating target between the first pressing member and the elastic body; and a floating jig that thermally separates the first pressing member from the heating target, holds the heating target between the first pressing member and the second pressing member, and when one of the first pressing member and the second pressing member presses the heating target toward the other of the first pressing member and the second pressing member, thermally connects the heating target and the first pressing member. |
| US08708013B2 |
Pneumatic tires including short fibers
A pneumatic tire comprising a body, a tread, a pair of bead assemblies disposed in the lower section of the body, where said bead assemblies include a bead core and a bead filler, and a pair of sidewalls, where the bead assemblies and pair of sidewalls include vulcanizated rubber, and where at least one of said bead assemblies, or at least one of said sidewalls, or both said bead assemblies and sidewalls include short fibers. |
| US08708010B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire comprises, on a tread surface, a circumferential groove which extends in a tire circumferential direction, a land portion which is zoned by the circumferential groove, and a plurality of lag grooves in which one end is open to a side of the circumferential groove and another end is terminated within the land portion, wherein the land portion has a rib-like portion which is successive in a tire circumferential direction and a wing portion which is zoned by the lag grooves, and wherein a plurality of small holes are formed on a surface of the land portion along a line connecting trailing end portions of the lag grooves adjacent to each other. |
| US08708009B2 |
Pneumatic tire
To enhance cornering performance on each road surface and improve steering stability while ensuring traction performance and breaking performance of a pneumatic tire on a snow road or off-road.A shoulder land row (31) between a main groove (11) extending in the tire peripheral direction of a tread unit (2) and a tread end (TE) is partitioned into plan-view trapezoidal blocks (31B) with their widths reducing toward the outer side of a tire width direction by shoulder lug grooves (26) in an almost tire width direction. A plan-view trapezoidal notch (40) with its width reducing toward the inside of a block (31B) is formed in almost the center of the main groove (11) side edge of a block (31B), and an inclined surface (41) extending from the surface of the block (31B) toward the bottom of the main groove (11) is formed in the notch (40) integrally with the block (31B). This inclined surface (41) is formed stepwise by a plurality of recessed curved surfaces and protruding ridges formed between them. |
| US08708006B2 |
Liquid container refilling system and method
A system for and method of refilling a liquid in a container. The system includes a one-way valve attachable to a liquid storage container. In a particular embodiment, the system is operable to refill a container for a liquid soap dispenser via the one-way valve and a hose connected to a refilling reservoir, through the operation of a pump. A method of refilling a liquid storage container using the inventive system is also described. |
| US08708005B2 |
Gas filling system
A gas filling system includes a vehicle having a gas tank, and a gas station that supplies the gas tank with gas. The vehicle includes a controller having a filling protocol that specifies a method of control on the gas station side that is used when the gas is filled into the gas tank. The gas station controls filling of the gas into the gas tank according to the filling protocol provided by the controller. A filling protocol specific to the vehicle is used and therefore, it is made possible to perform filling adapted to the gas tank of the vehicle. |
| US08708003B2 |
System for transferring fill material
A two part system for transferring fill material in and out of soft furniture such as beanbag furniture, which comprises a transfer bag and a tubular funnel secured to the transfer bag and a second tubular funnel secured inside a piece of soft furniture to which the filling is to be transferred. |
| US08708000B2 |
Bore plug
An apparatus and method for plugging a tubular bore is disclosed herein. The apparatus comprises: a shaft member; one or more cylindrical compressible seals slideably disposed around the shaft member, wherein the shaft member passes axially through the one or more cylindrical seals; one or more cylindrical hard sleeves having one or more conical ends slideably disposed around the shaft member and adjacent to the one or more cylindrical seals; a flange attached at or near a distal end of the shaft member, wherein the flange retains the cylindrical sleeves and cylindrical seals on the shaft member; and a pulling mechanism disposed at or near a proximal end of the shaft member, wherein the seal is positioned between the flange and the one or more cylindrical hard sleeves such that compression of the seal causes it to expand away from the shaft member. |
| US08707999B2 |
Method for fabricating solid body having superhydrophobic surface structure and superhydrophobic tube using the same method
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a solid body having a superhydrophobic surface structure formed by using a surface treatment of a metal body, a replication process, and a polymer sticking phenomenon to increase efficiency of fluid transfer and prevent foreign materials from being accumulated in the tube, and a superhydrophobic fluid transfer tube using the method. The superhydrophobic fluid transfer tube includes a fluid guider and a solid body provided on a fluid contact surface of the fluid guider and has micrometer-scaled unevenness and nanometer-scaled protrusions. In the method, a plurality of nanometer-scaled holes are formed on a surface of a metal body through an anodizing process, a replica is formed by immersing the metal body provided with the nanometer-scaled holes in a non-wetting polymer material and solidifying the non-wetting polymer material, the solid body having the superhydrophobic surface is formed by removing the metal body and an anode oxide from the replica, and the solid body is provided to a fluid contact surface of a fluid guider for guiding a fluid. |
| US08707997B2 |
Fluid device unit structure
Provided is a fluid device unit structure in which a chemical solution stagnation portion that is formed between a valve of a main fluid flow path and a branching point of a return flow path is minimized to cause hardly any solidification of a chemical solution. In the fluid device unit structure in which a plurality of fluid devices that are connected via flow paths are integrated on a base member (10) to form a single unit, and the main fluid flow path (11) and the return flow path (12) formed in the base member (10) are respectively provided with a first valve (20) and a second valve (40) for switching the flow paths, the branching inlet (12a) at which the return flow path (12) branches from the main fluid flow path (11) is close to the upstream side of the first valve (20). |
| US08707996B2 |
Selector valve for an internal combustion engine
A selector valve for independently controlling fluid between a first passage, a second passage, and a common passage, comprising: a valve housing comprising an inner chamber in communication with the outlet, having a first valve seat in communication with the first inlet and a second valve seat in communication with the second inlet, a shaft slidably extending through the housing between the first and second valve seats; first and second valve poppets slidably mounted upon the shaft within the inner chamber, each having valve faces for seating against the first and second valve seats; and a spring coaxially located around the shaft between the first and second valve poppets, pushing against the inner surfaces of the first and second valve poppets, biasing the first valve poppet and the second valve poppet away from each other and toward the first valve seat and the second valve seat. |
| US08707993B2 |
Coaxial quick coupling
A coaxial quick coupling suitable for being employed in very high pressure applications in the field of emergency tools, such as shears, retractors, cylinder lifters and the like, and/or in the construction field. The coupling according to the present invention is characterized in that it has a high standardization of the internal components, different components being used both in the male coupling and in the female coupling, and in that it has a greater structural and constructional simplicity, also having few points of elastomeric sealing, which results in longer duration and greater reliability of the coupling itself. |
| US08707990B2 |
Removable manifold for an air compressor
A removable manifold for use with an air compressor unit having a main feed hose for dispensing compressed air, the manifold including a body, a hub disposed on the body defining a hub chamber, an inlet disposed on the body, the inlet defining an inlet chamber in fluid communication with the hub chamber, and the inlet being configured to engage the main feed hose, thereby providing fluid communication between the air compressor unit and the hub chamber, and an outlet disposed on the body, and defining an outlet chamber in fluid communication with the hub. |
| US08707989B2 |
Mounting system for fluid discharge devices
A fluid discharge device having a main body with first and second ends may be mounted to one or more components of a system. The first end may include an inlet for receiving a fluid flow. A mounting system may include a first mounting plate having an opening with a diameter that is greater than the inlet diameter. An insert may include an outside wall configured to be fitted to the opening of the first mounting plate and may include an inside wall that defines another opening through which the inlet of the fluid discharge device may be fitted. The opening defined by the inside wall of the insert may provide a radial clearance for the inlet that compensates for distortions and/or deviations from an expected inlet and/or main body shape, wherein such distortions may be caused at least partially by stresses experienced during manufacturing. |
| US08707985B2 |
Quick stop encasement for malfunctioning fire sprinkler head
A removable casing for a fire sprinkler head encases the sprinkler head to stop unwanted water spray. The casing has hinged shells that latch closed to form a watertight interior space. One or both of the shells have gaskets that contact the opposite shell to seal off the interior space. The hinges and latches may be adjustable to make the casing easier to fit over the sprinkler head and to fasten tightly. Each shell may have one or more necks configured to fit tightly around a pipe when the casing is closed. A drain having a valve may be disposed through one or both of the shells to prevent initial pressure buildup and to allow the removal of accumulated water from inside the casing. The casing fills with water until the flow out of the sprinkler head stops, allowing the rest of the fire sprinkler system to remain active. |