最新美国发明专利第2014-05-06期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08715596B2	Apparatus for recovering hydroprocessed hydrocarbons with two strippers in one vessel An apparatus is disclosed for recovering hydroprocessing effluent from a hydroprocessing unit utilizing a hot stripper and a cold stripper. The cold stripper and the hot stripper are contained in the same vessel. A barrier prevents material from the hot stripper from entering into the cold stripper.
US08715595B2	Apparatus for recovering hydroprocessed hydrocarbons with two strippers in series An apparatus is disclosed for recovering hydroprocessing effluent from a hydroprocessing unit utilizing a hot stripper and a cold stripper. A net overhead stream from the hot stripper is forwarded to the cold stripper for further stripping. The invention is particularly suitable for hydrotreating residue feed streams. The hot stripped stream may be subjected to fluid catalytic cracking. The apparatus and process eliminates the need for a fired heater in the product recovery unit.
US08715592B2	System-in-package platform for electronic-microfluidic devices An integrated electronic-micro fluidic device an integrated electronic-micro fluidic device, comprising a semiconductor substrate on a first support, an electronic circuit on a first semiconductor-substrate side of the semiconductor substrate, and a signal interface structure to an external device. A micro fluidic structure is formed in the semiconductor substrate, and is configured to confine a fluid and to allow a flow of the fluid to and from the microfluidic structure only on a second semiconductor-substrate side that is opposite to the first semiconductor-substrate side and faces away from the first support.
US08715589B2	Sensors with thromboresistant coating Embodiments of the present invention relate to analyte sensors comprising a heparin coating, and methods of coating analyte sensors. The heparin can be stably associated with at least a portion of a porous membrane that covers a portion of the analyte sensors. The heparin can be photochemically linked to the coating through the formation of covalent bonds.
US08715587B1	Vent booster A vent booster is provided which includes a filter array and a fan. The vent booster is integrated into the cold air return of a home ventilation system. The filter array includes a series of filters which remove particulates and odors from the air. The integrated fan assists in forcing air through the filters. A reservoir for dispensing deodorizers or odorizers to the air is included within the vent booster.
US08715579B2	Honeycomb structure A honeycomb structure has a substantially circular-pillar-shape. The honeycomb structure includes at least one electrically conductive honeycomb unit, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The at least one electrically conductive honeycomb unit includes walls extending along a longitudinal direction of the at least one electrically conductive honeycomb unit to define a plurality of through holes. The first electrode is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the honeycomb structure. The second electrode is provided in a vicinity of a central axis of the honeycomb structure extending along the longitudinal direction.
US08715578B2	Exhaust gas purifying apparatus An exhaust gas purifying apparatus has a first housing including a DOC converter and DPF, and a second housing including an SCR converter, the housings disposed in parallel on the outer side of a frame such that the exhaust upstream ends thereof are positioned on the outer side in the vehicle width direction. An outlet port of the first housing and an inlet port of the second housing are communicatively connected through a communication pipe. The first housing is dividable into a first casing accommodating the DOC converter and a second casing accommodating the DPF, the two casings separably fastened by bolts. The inlet port of the first casing housing is bent inwardly in the width direction and detachably fastened to an exhaust pipe, the distal end of which opens outwardly in the width direction, through bolts. The second casing and housing are fixed to the frame through two brackets.
US08715576B2	Material, system, and method that provide indication of a breach A multilayer material is described herein that includes at least one signaling layer configured to propagate at least one electromagnetic signal; and a flexible layer configured to enclose the at least one signaling layer, wherein the flexible layer is substantially impermeable to an environment and to the at least one electromagnetic signal. The multilayer material including the at least one signaling layer is configured to transmit a change in the at least one electromagnetic signal upon exposure of the signaling layer to the environment. A system, an article of clothing, or a method is described herein.
US08715573B2	Fluidic system for a flow cytometer with temporal processing The fluidic system 10 of the preferred embodiment includes a sheath pump 12 to pump sheath fluid 14 from a sheath container 16 through a sample port 34 into an interrogation zone 18 and a waste pump 20 to pump the sheath fluid 14 and a sample fluid 26 as waste fluid 22 from the interrogation zone 18 into a waste container 24, and a processor 30 to calculate a time window based on the flow rate of the sample fluid 26. Preferably the processor 30 also calculates a time window for the sample fluid to reach the interrogation zone 18 from the sample port 34 based on the flow rate of the sample fluid 26. The interrogation zone 18 functions to provide a location for the fluidic system 10 and an optical analysis system 32 of the flow cytometer to cooperatively facilitate the analysis of the sample fluid 26.
US08715572B2	Method and apparatus for detection, analysis, and collection of rare cellular events Systems and methods for the detection, analysis, and collection of rare cellular events, wherein rare cellular events are defined by events comprising less than 5% of a total number of cells in a sample. The systems and methods generally include: (1) a flow cell dimensioned so as to permit a flow of a sample through the flow cell at a flow rate greater than 300,000 cells per second; (2) a laser positioned to emit a laser beam directed to the flow cell; (3) one or more deflector components disposed between the laser and the flow cell, wherein the deflector component is configured to affect a position of the laser beam relative to the sample flow; (4) one or more fluorescence emission detectors; and (5) one or more processor configured to detect rare cellular events based on fluorescence emission from cell-binding surface markers introduced into the sample prior to the sample being flowed through the flow cell.
US08715571B2	Test strip ejector for medical device A system and method for receiving and ejecting a test strip of a fluid testing device. The system includes parallel first and second guide rails defining a rail cavity between the guide rails. A sled includes a sled post and opposed first and second side leg sets each having at least one deflectable leg. Each of the deflectable legs is externally slidably engaged to one of the guide rails limiting the sled to only sliding motion in either a loading direction or an opposite ejection direction. An actuator arm is rotatably connected to a mechanism assembly. The sled post is received in an actuator arm slot. Actuator arm rotation in a loading rotational direction displaces the sled in the loading direction in a sliding motion. Subsequent opposite rotation of the actuator arm in an ejection rotational direction displaces the sled in the ejection direction and ejects the test strip.
US08715570B2	Device and a method for sterilization of packages A device for sterilization of packages and a method of sterilizing packages are provided. The device comprises a gassing zone for exposing the packages to a gaseous sterilization agent, inlet mechanisms for introducing the gaseous sterilization agent into the gassing zone and a conveyor for transporting the packages through the gassing zone in a transport direction. The device also includes a separation mechanism arranged inside the gassing zone to divide at least an upper part of the gassing zone into sub gassing zones, each of said separation mechanisms having an opening for passage of the packages, each of at least a number of the inlet mechanisms being arranged to provide a flow of the gaseous sterilization agent at the opening of a respective one of the separation mechanisms.
US08715568B2	Use of compositions containing silicon for improving the corrosion resistance of vessels Use of a composition comprising silicon, oxygen and at least one of calcium, potassium, or titanium, as a material for coating an equipment or as a constituent material of equipment, intended to be in contact with a mixture containing a chlorohydrin, hydrogen chloride and water. The use of the composition may provide a method for reducing corrosion of the equipment, for decreasing the frequency of replacement of the equipment and/or for lowering the risks linked to equipment breakage and leak. The equipment which is intended to be in contact with the mixture may be used in a process for manufacturing a chlorohydrin, in which a polyhydroxylated aliphatic hydrocarbon, an ester of a polyhydroxylated aliphatic hydrocarbon or a mixture of the two, is reacted with a chlorinating agent that contains hydrogen chloride.
US08715562B2	Method of making a container having a tethered closure A method of making a plastic container that has a tethered closure using an extrusion blow molding process includes steps of extruding a parison, capturing the parison within a mold and inflating the parison against the mold to form a container blank having a container portion, a closure portion and a tether portion for connecting the container portion to the closure portion. The tether portion, which is preferably elongated and string like, may be formed out of flash material that is created during the molding process. The resulting container is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and facilitates the plastic recycling process.
US08715560B2	Method to control thickness in composite parts cured on closed angle tool The present invention provides a method for controlling the thickness of composite laminates cured on closed angle tools. The invention utilizes a peel ply rather than a breather during the preparation for cure of laminate parts having a substantially uniform initial thickness. This method allows composite parts to be formed with greater uniformity and without the need for extra hardware. The composite part formed by the above method may find use in a wide variety of applications, including, for example, automotive and aerospace applications. Thus, for example, a composite part formed in accordance with the present invention is ideally suited for use as a shear tie in a commercial aircraft, which are used to secure the inner framework of the aircraft to the airplane skin.
US08715557B2	Dimensional control of concrete blocks A concrete block mold division plate for front-face-up block molding. The division plate fits into a channel formed in each of the side walls of the mold. A plurality of fasteners secure the division plate within each channel and to the side walls of the mold. The division plate operates in conjunction with an optimized dry cast concrete mixture to provide acceptable control of the flatness and parallelism of the top and bottom surfaces of the blocks.
US08715555B2	Scaffold plank and process of making same The invention is a plank fabricated from a composite fiberglass material. The invention further comprises the method of making the composite fiberglass plank using a pultrusion process.
US08715548B2	Mold fastening device and method of controlling the mold fastening device A mold fastening device has a fixed die plate, a rear plate, a movable die plate that can move back and forth, a toggle mechanism, and a drive motor that drives a cross-head. The position where the cross-head should be stopped is associated with the rate at which to accelerate the cross-head from that position or the rate at which to decelerate the cross-head to that position. The cross-head is operated at an acceleration that corresponds to that position. The drive motor is thereby driven at a constant output torque, regardless of the position of the movable die plate. Further, the time for opening and closing metal molds can be shortened.
US08715545B2	Systems and methods for forming high performance compressible objects The present systems and methods utilize a polyamic acid solution as a precursor to form a polyimide bead having desired properties. The polyamic acid solution may be formed into a polyamic acid droplet. The polyamic acid droplet is then processed to form a polyamic acid bead, such as by extraction of solvent to concentrate the polyamic acid or by partial chemical imidization of the polyamic acid. The polyamic acid bead is then better able to retain its shape during subsequent processing steps, such as drying and pressurizing, before final thermal imidization.
US08715541B2	Reusable lens molds and methods of use thereof Described herein are devices for producing ophthalmic lenses including at least one mold half defining an optical surface where the mold half is made from a polymer that includes an aromatic polyimide, a polyphenylene, or a combination thereof. The devices exhibit numerous advantages including, but not limited to, good chemical resistance, durability, machineability, and UV absorbing properties. Also described are methods for producing ophthalmic lenses using the devices described herein. The ophthalmic lenses produced with the devices described herein exhibit excellent optical properties when compared to lenses produced from conventions molds.
US08715540B2	Aqueous and dry duel-action flame and smoke retardant and microbe inhibiting compositions, and related methods The present invention provides combined property, dual-action aqueous and dry compositions for application to a material, such as conventional Gypsum Wall Board, ceiling tiles, joint compounds, concrete and other interior building materials, prior to an exposure of the material to fire, or prior to, during or after exposure of the material to conditions favorable to the growth of microbes, and related methods. When compositions within the present invention are properly applied to a material prior to the material being exposed to fire, or prior to, during or after the material being exposed to conditions favorable to the growth of microbes, these compositions have the effect of reducing the amount of burning that occurs to the material, and/or reducing the amount or density of smoke and associated toxic gases produced by the material, when the material is exposed to fire. These compositions also have the effect of inhibiting or reducing the growth, build-up or deposit of microbes on the material when the material is exposed to conditions favorable to the growth of microbes.
US08715536B2	Conductive material formed using light or thermal energy, method for forming the same and nano-scale composition An electrically conductive material includes a plurality of nanowires and a plurality of nanoconnectors. The ratio by weight of the plurality of nanowires to the plurality of nanoconnectors is in a range of from 1:9 to 9:1. Nanoconnectors can be heated by thermal energy or light energy so that the nanoconnectors can be closely interconnected to each other and to nanowires, resulting in significant increase of the electrical conductivity of the electrically conductive material.
US08715534B2	Method for producing composite member of metal member and resin member The invention discloses an injection molding method for manufacture of a metal-resin composite member; wherein the resin composition used in the method includes a plurality of metal particles having one or more metal melting points between about 200° C. and 400° C.; the resin composition is heated to a temperature higher than the resin melting point and higher than one or more metal melting points to provide a heated resin composition; and wherein injecting the heated resin into a mold results in contact of the heated resin with one or more disposed heated metal member(s) to provide a composite member.
US08715527B2	Liquid-crystal medium The invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium based on a mixture of polar compounds of positive dielectric anisotropy, characterized in that it comprises one or more compounds of the formula I and one or more compounds selected from the compounds of the formulae IA and IB in which R1, R2, L1-4, X1 and X2 have the meanings indicated in claim 1.
US08715524B2	Polishing liquid The invention provides a polishing liquid for polishing a barrier layer of a semiconductor integrated circuit, the polishing liquid comprising: a diquaternary ammonium cation; a corrosion inhibiting agent; and a colloidal silica, wherein the pH of the polishing liquid is in the range of 2.5 to 5.0. According to the invention, a polishing liquid capable of achieving a superior barrier layer polishing rate, as well as suppressing the occurrence of scratching due to the agglomeration of solid abrasive grains can be provided.
US08715523B2	Heat storage material and heat utilization system using the same There is provided a heat storage material capable of recovering/storing thermal energy such as exhaust heat energy or sunlight, and a heat utilization system using the same. The heat storage material of the present invention comprises a complex compound of the formula (I), wherein, R, R′, A, B, C, D, A′, B′, C′ and D′ are as defined herein.
US08715522B2	Refrigerator oil composition A refrigerator oil composition contains base oil and polyalkylene glycol (PAG) block copolymer. The PAG block polymer is represented by the following formula (1). R1[(OR2)m(OE)nOR3]1 (1) In the formula: R1 represents a hydrocarbon residue having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; R2 represents an alkenyl group having 3 to 6 carbon atoms; E represents an ethylene group; R3 represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; m and n each represent a positive integer, a ratio of m to n (m/n) being 99/1 to 50/50; and l represents an integer in a range of 1 to 100.
US08715519B2	Plasma reactor with adjustable plasma electrodes and associated methods Plasma reactors with adjustable plasma electrodes and associated methods of operation are disclosed herein. The plasma reactors can include a chamber, a workpiece support for holding a microfeature workpiece, and a plasma electrode in the chamber and spaced apart from the workpiece support. The plasma electrode has a first portion and a second portion configured to move relative to the first portion. The first and second portions are configured to electrically generate a plasma between the workpiece support and the plasma electrode.
US08715517B2	Process for fabricating an acoustic wave resonator comprising a suspended membrane A process for fabricating an acoustic wave resonator comprising a suspended membrane comprising a piezoelectric material layer, comprises the following steps: production of a first stack comprising at least one layer of first piezoelectric material on the surface of a first substrate; production of a second stack comprising at least one second substrate; production of at least one non-bonding initiating zone by deposition or creation of particles of controlled sizes leaving the surface of one of said stacks endowed locally with projecting nanostructures before a subsequent bonding step; direct bonding of said two stacks creating a blister between the stacks, due to the presence of the non-bonding initiating zone; and, thinning of the first stack to eliminate at least the first substrate.
US08715515B2	Process for optimization of island to trench ratio in patterned media A sequence of process steps having balanced process times are implemented in sequence of etch chambers coupled linearly and isolated one from the other, resulting in the optimization of island to trench ratio for a patterned media. A biased chemical etching using active etching gas is used to descum and trim the resist patterns. An inert gas sputter etch is performed on the magnetic layers, resulting in the patterned magnetic layer on the disk. A final step of stripping is then performed to remove the residual capping resist and carbon hard mask on top of un-etched magnetic islands. The effective magnetic material remaining on the disk surface can be optimized by adjusting the conditions of chemical etch and sputter etch conditions. Relevant process conditions that may be adjusted include: pressure, bias, time, and the type of gas in each step.
US08715514B2	Micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone and method of manufacturing the same Provided are a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone and a method of manufacturing the same. A manufacturing process is simplified compared to a conventional art using both upper and lower substrate processes. Since defects which may occur during manufacturing are reduced due to the simplified manufacturing process, the manufacturing throughput is improved, and since durability of the MEMS microphone is improved, system stability against the external environment is improved.
US08715510B2	Methods and devices for measuring the concentration of an additive An apparatus and methods for measuring the concentration of an additive are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a treatment stream (1) and a dosing stream (2). An additive is added to the dosing stream using a metering device (3). In some embodiments, the dosing stream is mixed after adding the additive using a first mixing device (4). Downstream from the metering device and the mixing device, the concentration of the additive in the dosing stream is measured using a monitor flow cell (5). In some embodiments, the dosing stream and treatment stream are combined (6) and mixed using a second mixing device (7). The concentration of the additive in the treatment stream can be calculated as a function of the volumetric flow rate ratio of the dosing stream to the treatment stream and the measured concentration of the additive in the dosing stream.
US08715507B2	Storm drain baffle to decrease sediment washout Some examples includes a flow-through stormwater sump having a bottom and defining an inlet opening, an outlet opening and a top access opening, an inlet conduit coupled to the flow-through stormwater sump at the inlet opening, an outlet conduit coupled to the flow-through stormwater sump at the outlet opening and a flow-path baffle disposed in the stormwater sump, the flow-path baffle being substantially planar and defining a plurality of openings, the flow-path baffle oriented such that a centerline of the inlet conduit intersects a major plane of the baffle at a point and a centerline of the outlet conduit intersects the major plane at a further point, the flow-path baffle disposed in the stormwater sump in a direct impingement inlet flow-path of the inlet conduit and a direct impingement outlet back-flow-path of the outlet conduit.
US08715503B2	Method for the remediation of salt-containing wastewater streams In some embodiments, a wastewater treatment system may reduce contaminants in water. A system may include one or more bioreactors which include a substrate that supports a biofilm. The bacteria used to form the biofilm may be selected to maximize the reduction of contaminants in water. Various components of the wastewater treatment system may be optimized to improve the efficiency and energy consumption of the wastewater system.
US08715496B2	Water alteration structure and system having below surface valves or wave reflectors A system for altering water properties in an outdoor body of water includes a holding vessel configured to hold water. The holding vessel has at least one wall extending above a mean surface water level. The system also includes at least one conduit extending downward from the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length extending to a depth at which at least one property of water at the depth differs substantially from that of water at the surface. The system further includes at least one aperture formed in at least one of the holding vessel or the at least one conduit and located at a distance below the mean surface water level. Further still, the system includes at least one one way valve coupled to the at least one aperture and allowing flow of water in only one direction.
US08715494B2	Device for separating ferromagnetic particles from a suspension A device for separating ferromagnetic particles from a suspension may include a tubular reactor through which the suspension can flow and which has an inlet and an outlet, and a means for generating a magnetic field, which means is designed to generate a magnetic travelling field which acts on the reactor.
US08715493B2	Filter arrangement for filtering liquids A filter arrangement for filtering liquids has a central tube and a first filter element flowed through in radial direction outwardly and disposed on the central tube. A downstream second filter element is disposed on the central tube and flowed through in radial direction inwardly. The first filter element is moveable along the central tube from a basic position into an extended position. In the basic position a connection between the inlet line and a clean side of the first filter element is provided by the first filter element. In the extended position a bypass between an inlet line and the clean side of the first filter element is provided to bypass the first filter element. A spring element, applying a restoring force in a direction of extension of the central tube, is arranged on the first filter element at a side facing away from the second filter element.
US08715486B2	Process for producing a hydrocarbon component The invention relates to a process for producing a new type of high-quality hydrocarbon base oil of biological origin. The process of the invention comprises ketonization, hydrodeoxygenation, and isomerization steps. Fatty acids and/or fatty acid esters based on a biological raw material are preferably used as the feedstock.
US08715484B2	Process for producing needle coke for graphite electrode and stock oil composition for use in the process The invention provides a stock oil composition for needle coke for a graphite electrode, the stock oil composition having a 10 vol % distillation temperature of 280° C. or higher as the distillation property, and when separated into the aromatic component and non-aromatic component by elution chromatography, having an aromatic component content of 30-80 wt % with respect to the total weight of the stock oil composition and an aromatic component molecular weight of 255-1300, as well as a non-aromatic component normal paraffin content of at least 5 parts by weight with respect to 100 parts by weight of the aromatic component.
US08715483B1	Process for the recovery of lead from lead-bearing materials A system for recovering lead from lead-bearing materials by circulating an aqueous solution of ferric fluoroborate in fluoroboric acid through a leaching vessel to leach lead from the lead-bearing material and an electrolytic cell for recovering the lead includes a cooler for cooling at least a portion of the circulating solution sufficiently to precipitate alkali salts and alkali-earth salts, and a filter for removing the precipitated salts from the solution. A process for recovering lead from lead-bearing materials by leaching the lead from the lead-bearing material with a solution of ferric fluoroborate in fluoroboric acid and recovering the lead from the solution includes cooling at least a portion of the circulating solution sufficiently to precipitate alkali salts and alkali-earth salts, and filtering the salts from the solution.
US08715477B2	Apparatus and process for separation and selective recomposition of ions A device and process are disclosed for the separate removal of oppositely charged ions from electrolyte solutions and recombining them to form new chemical compositions. The invention provides the ability to create multiple ion flow channels and then form new chemical compositions therefrom. The process is accomplished by selectively combining oppositely charged ions of choice from different electrolyte solutions via the capacitive behavior of high electrical capacity electrodes confined in insulated containers.
US08715473B2	Method for determining ion concentration or concentration of a substance in a solution Method for determining ion concentration or concentration of a substance in a solution by means of an ion selective, field effect transistor or an ion sensitive sensor having an EIS structure. The method comprises steps as follows: at least at a predetermined point in time of a first measuring phase, the potential lying on the electrode is sensed relative to a reference potential; before beginning a sterilization- and/or cleaning phase following the first measuring phase, the last voltage sensed during the first measuring phase is stored; and at the beginning of a second measuring phase following the sterilization- and/or cleaning phase, is the voltage stored during the sterilization phase is applied on the electrode.
US08715468B2	Machine and method for machining a part by micro-electrical discharge machining The invention relates to a machine for machining a part by micro-electrical discharge machining, said machine comprising a mechanism (44, 45, 46, 48) for modifying the configuration of the machine so as to alternatively and reversibly switch from a machining configuration to a sharpening configuration in which the tip of a same etching electrode (20) and another electrode (64) are dipped in an electrolyte bath in order to sharpen the tip of the etching electrode by electrochemnical corrosion.
US08715466B1	Method and system for reducing water loss in a paper mill A method and system for reducing waste water from a paper machine system. The system involves splitting a flow output from a seal water tank. With a portion of the flow output being used to maintain a fluid level within a wire pit, and the balance being recycled to the system as substantially clean water.
US08715465B2	Paper making process using binder/filler agglomerates A process for making paper, comprising contacting an anionic binder with a cationizing agent to make a cationized binder, contacting the cationized binder with an anionic pigment to form a binder/pigment agglomerate, contacting the agglomerate with an aqueous slurry of fibers, and forming a paper product from the slurry. The agglomerate may reduce the total cost of the paper product being produced while maintaining the strength of the paper at acceptable levels.
US08715462B2	Process and apparatus for recycling coated paper products Methods and apparatus are provided for exploiting coated paper products such as coated paper cups. End products include biofuels that have a high energy density. The biofuels may be mixed with coal or other fuels and have good binding characteristics. In some embodiments, useful chemicals such as HMF are produced. The methods involve heat treatment at relatively mild temperatures and pressures under acidic conditions.
US08715458B2	Adjustable micro device feeder system and method of operation thereof A method of operation of a micro device feeder system includes: adjusting a distance between a movable drive plate and a mounting plate for aligning a carrier tape carrying a micro device to a center line for pick-up of the micro device by external device handling equipment; and configuring a tape handling mechanism, having a sprocket assembly, to accommodate a predetermined width of the carrier tape.
US08715455B2	Multi-zone gas distribution system for a treatment system A treatment system is described for exposing a substrate to various processes. Additionally, a gas distribution system is configured to be coupled to and utilized with the treatment system in order to distribute process material above the substrate is provided. The treatment system includes a process chamber, a radical generation system coupled to the process chamber, a gas distribution system coupled to the radical generation system and configured to distribute reactive radicals above a substrate, and a temperature controlled pedestal coupled to the vacuum chamber and configured to support the substrate. The gas distribution system is configured to efficiently transport radicals to the substrate and distribute the radicals above the substrate.
US08715448B2	Method for producing laminate for configuring image display device, and image display device using the same A method for producing a laminate for configuring an image display device is provided, capable of realizing simultaneously unevenness followability and anti-bubble reliability. A method for producing a laminate for configuring an image display device is proposed, comprising the following steps (1) and (2): (1) The step of forming an adhesive composition into the form of a monolayer or a multilayer sheet, and by UV-crosslinking, primary-curing this thereby forming a pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet. (2) The step of layering two image display device-constituting members via the pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet and then irradiating ultraviolet light from at least a first image display device-constituting member side, UV-crosslinking through this member and secondary-curing the pre-secondary curing transparent double-sided adhesive sheet.
US08715446B2	Latent solvent-based microfluidic apparatus, methods, and applications A latent solvent-based microfluidic apparatus and method involves laminate bonding of two non-elastomeric, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) components having opposing surfaces to be bonded, wherein in a contacted state there is at least one interstitial space between the contacted surfaces, applying an organic latent solvent to at least one of the opposing surfaces, wherein the latent solvent is in an inactive state, contacting the two opposing surfaces together, actively removing the latent solvent from the at least one interstitial space; and adjusting a latent solvency parameter to activate the latent solvent, wherein the opposing contacted surfaces become bonded.
US08715445B2	Method for manufacturing liquid crystal display element A method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display element, includes: providing a long sheet material including a laminate of an optical film containing a polarizer, a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and a carrier film temporarily bonded to the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer; cutting the long sheet material at predetermined intervals, while maintaining the continuity of the carrier film; peeling off the carrier film by a tensile force; and continuously bonding the resulting optical film pieces to liquid crystal panels, respectively, through the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer exposed by the peeling off, while feeding the resulting optical film pieces, wherein the cutting is performed to such a depth as to substantially reach the carrier film, and the carrier film is cut to a depth less than half of the thickness of the carrier film at least both end portions in the width direction of the carrier film.
US08715442B2	Lateral pipe lining material and lateral pipe lining method A tubular lateral pipe lining material is configured to be inserted into a lateral pipe which intersects with a main pipe in order to repair the lateral pipe. The tubular lateral pipe lining material has a flexible tubular resin-absorbing material impregnated with an uncured curable liquid resin. The tubular resin-absorbing material has one end that is folded back. A flange member, over which the folded-back end of the tubular resin-absorbing material is pressed, is made of a thermoplastic resin. An adhesive is applied over the flange member and the folded-back end of the tubular-absorbing material to bond the tubular resin-absorbing material to the flange member.
US08715441B2	Medical tubing having variable characteristics and method of making same The invention primarily is directed to a medical tubing adapted for insertion into a body tissue or cavity and method of manufacturing different variations of the tubing along a length of the tubing. The tubing comprises a plurality of individual, discrete, generally ring-shaped elements arranged in series and fused or bonded together forming a continuous tubular structure. The ring-shaped elements may include a combination of flexible and rigid ring-shaped elements assembled along different portions or sections of the tubular structure. In another aspect of the invention, the medical tubing may further comprise a secondary lumen and a pull wire to control the tubular structure. In another aspect of the invention, the ring-shaped elements may vary in diameter and/or composition in different portions or sections of the tubular structure.
US08715437B2	Composite foam product A composite foam product comprising a foam core surrounded by a gas-impermeable film. The gas-impermeable film retains the gas formed from the blowing agent so that the pressure inside the foam core is above ambient pressures.
US08715435B2	Method for modifying composite articles In certain embodiments of the present disclosure a method for modifying a composite article is described. The method includes positioning a plug made from composite material at a site on the composite article. The method further includes rotating at least one of the plug and the article at a rate of speed sufficient to form an inertia bond between the plug and the site of the composite article. The plug and the site are engaged to effect an inertia bond therebetween.
US08715431B2	Copper alloy plate for electric and electronic parts having bending workability A Cu—Fe—P copper alloy sheet which has the high strength and the high electrical conductivity compatible with excellent bendability is provided. The Cu—Fe—P copper alloy sheet contains 0.01% to 3.0% of Fe and 0.01% to 0.3% of P on a percent by mass basis, wherein the orientation density of the Brass orientation is 20 or less and the sum of the orientation densities of the Brass orientation, the S orientation, and the Copper orientation is 10 or more and 50 or less in the microstructure of the copper alloy sheet.
US08715429B2	Non-heat treated rolled steel and drawn wire rod with excellent toughness, and method for manufacturing the same There is provided a rolled steel with excellent toughness, a drawn wire rod prepared by drawing the rolled steel, and a method for manufacturing the same, in which even if a heating step is omitted, the toughness of the steel can be improved by securing a degenerated pearlite structure in an internal structure of the rolled steel by controlling a content of Mn among components and cooling conditions, and then preventing C diffusion. The rolled steel according to the present invention includes C: 0.15˜0.30%, Si: 0.1˜0.2%, Mn: 1.8˜3.0%, P: 0.035% or less, S: 0.040% or less, the remainder Fe, and other inevitable impurites, as a percentage of weight, in which the microstucture of the rolled steel is composed of ferrite and pearlite including cementite with 150 nm or less of thickness.
US08715428B2	Hot-forging micro-alloyed steel and hot-rolled steel excellent in fracture-splitability and machinability, and component made of hot-forged microalloyed steel The invention provides a hot-forging micro-alloyed steel and a hot-rolled steel which achieve excellent fracture-splitability and machinability, without impairing productivity or mechanical properties and without addition of Pb or the like. It also provides a component made of hot-forged micro-alloyed steel. The hot-forging micro-alloyed steel contains, in mass %, C: greater than 0.35 to 0.60%, Si: 0.50 to 2.50%, Mn: 0.20 to 2.00%, P: 0.010 to 0.150%, S: 0.040 to 0.150%, V: 0.10 to 0.50%, Zr: 0.0005 to 0.0050%, Ca: 0.0005 to 0.0050% and N: 0.0069 to 0.0200%, Al being limited to less than 0.010%, and a balance of Fe and unavoidable impurities.
US08715426B2	Food preparation assemblies and related methods A food preparation assembly for use in cleaning food products generally includes a tank for holding washing fluid for use in cleaning food products positioned within the tank, and a pump in fluidic communication with the tank to provide movement of the washing fluid within the tank for use in cleaning the food products when positioned within the tank. A processing module is configured to receive settings from a user for cleaning the food products, and to monitor and adjust, as necessary, parameters of the washing fluid based on the user input settings. The processing module is also configured to report and/or store measured values of the parameters of the washing fluid in addition to select user defined input information (e.g., user defined wash settings, etc.). Labels may also be generated indicative of completion of cleaning of the food products by the food preparation assembly.
US08715423B2	Pipeline pig with internal flow cavity A pig for movement within a pipeline comprising a cylindrical housing with annular seals circumferentially mounted to the housing and extending outwards for sealing engagement between the pipeline and the housing. An internal flow cavity passes through the housing, with a gate positioned within the internal flow cavity, initially obstructing flow through the cavity. A locking device, connected to the gate, prevents the gate opening. A sensing device is capable of receiving a signal and is connected to an unlocking device. The sensing device receives a signal activating the unlocking device, thereby removing the locking device, permitting the gate to open and flow to pass through the cavity.
US08715421B2	Wiper with scrubber assembly that is raised and lowered A windshield wiper includes a wiper assembly, a scrubber assembly, and an engaging assembly. The wiper assembly includes a wiper support structure and a wiper blade attached to the wiper support structure. The scrubber assembly includes a scrubber support structure, an elongated scrubber element and a motor. The scrubber element is movably attached to the scrubber support structure and extends between a first end and a spaced apart second end along a central longitudinal axis. The motor is mounted to the scrubber support structure and is engaged with the scrubber element to reciprocally move the scrubber element along the central longitudinal axis. The engaging assembly is coupled with the wiper assembly and the scrubber assembly and is configured to raise and lower the scrubber assembly with respect to the wiper assembly. Also, an automated method of using a windshield wiper.
US08715420B2	Method for supplying hydroxyl radical-containing water and apparatus for supplying hydroxyl radical-containing water Disclosed is a method for supplying hydroxyl radical-containing water, which is highly convenient and with which water containing a relatively high concentration of hydroxyl radicals can be supplied to the point of use. The method for supplying hydroxyl radical-containing water comprises a production step of producing hydroxyl radical-containing water by dissolving ozone, hydrogen peroxide, and at least one additive substance selected from a group consisting of a water-soluble organic compound, an inorganic acid, a salt of an inorganic acid, and hydrazine in pure water, a transferring step of transferring the produced hydroxyl radical-containing water to the point of use, and a supplying step of supplying the hydroxyl radical-containing water to the point of use after transferring.
US08715418B2	Semiconductor processing system; a semiconductor processing chamber; and a method for loading, unloading and exchanging semiconductor work pieces from a semiconductor processing chamber A semiconductor processing system and related methodology is disclosed and which includes a processing chamber having an internal cavity and a transfer port; a transfer chamber which is positioned adjacent to the processing chamber; and a transfer apparatus having at least two extendible arms which are positioned within the transfer chamber, and wherein each of the extendible arms carry a semiconductor work piece into and out of the processing chamber by way of the transfer port, and wherein the at least two extendible arms are selectively vertically moveable, and further are each selectively moveable in the direction of the transfer port.
US08715416B2	Doping apparatus for simultaneously injecting two dopants into a semiconductor melt at different positions and method for manufacturing silicon single crystal using the doping apparatus A doping device includes a first dopant accommodating portion including an opening on an upper portion to accommodate a first dopant that is evaporated near a surface of a semiconductor melt; a second dopant accommodating portion including a dopant holder that holds a second dopant that is liquefied near the surface of the semiconductor melt while including a communicating hole for delivering the liquefied dopant downwardly, and a conduit tube provided on a lower portion of the dopant holder for delivering the liquefied dopant flowed from the communicating hole to the surface of the semiconductor melt; and a guide provided by a cylinder body of which a lower end is opened and an upper end is closed for guiding dopant gas generated by evaporation of the first dopant to the surface of the semiconductor melt.
US08715413B2	Method for manufacturing a group III nitride semiconductor crystal and method for manufacturing a group III nitride semiconductor substrate The invention provides a method for manufacturing a Group III nitride semiconductor crystal. The method includes the steps of preparing a seed crystal and performing a convex surface-growing step to grow the group III nitride semiconductor crystal. The growth surface of the group III nitride semiconductor crystal is constituted only by a plurality of surfaces not vertical to a growth direction and the group III nitride semiconductor crystal grows while forming a convex shape as a whole by the growth surface constituted of the plurality of surfaces. The invention also provides a method for manufacturing a group III nitride semiconductor substrate.
US08715410B2	Strontium-apatite cement preparation cements formed therefrom, and use thereof Calcium-strontium-hydroxyphosphate (strontium-apatite-) cement preparations are described, comprising a powder mixture, which contains molar quantities of the components calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr) and phosphate (P) in the mixture in the ranges 1.00
US08715406B2	UV absorbers soluble in polar media The invention relates to triazine-based special organic UV absorbers modified in such a way as to be soluble in polar coating compositions. The invention further relates to coatings, e.g. sol-gel based ones, containing said novel UV absorbers as well as to the use of said coatings for permanently protecting materials, especially plastics, from photochemical degradation.
US08715403B2	Multi-stage pre-treatment method for metal components having zinc and iron surfaces The invention relates to an acidic, aqueous, chromium-free composition (A) for the anti-corrosive treatment of steel and/or galvanized steel surfaces comprising metal ions (M) selected from ions at least of the elements nickel, cobalt, molybdenum, iron or tin and a multi-stage method applying the composition (A) for the anti-corrosive pre-treatment of metal components which have steel and/or galvanized steel surfaces. The invention further relates to metal surfaces of zinc or iron having a passive layer system comprising at least 30 mg/m2 nickel and at least 10 mg/m2 zircon, titanium and/or hafnium and sulfur, wherein nickel is present in metallic form at up to at least 30 At. %, obtainable in a method according to the invention.
US08715402B2	Air pollution control system and air pollution control method, spray drying device of dewatering filtration fluid from desulfurization discharged water, and method thereof To include a boiler 11 that burns fuel F, an air heater 13 that recovers heat of flue gas 18 from the boiler 11, a first precipitator 14 that reduces dust in the flue gas 18 after heat recovery, a desulfurizer 15 that reduces sulfur oxides in the flue gas 18 after dust reduction by an absorbent, a dewaterer 32 that reduces gypsum 31 from desulfurization discharged water 30 discharged from the desulfurizer 15, a spray drying device 34 including an atomizer that atomizes a dewatering filtration fluid 33 discharged from the dewaterer 32, and a flue-gas introducing line L11 that introduces a part of the flue gas 18 into the spray drying device 34.
US08715398B2	Method and device for purifying fluids An apparatus for the purification of fluids includes a material exchange apparatus which contains a more volatile fluid and a less volatile fluid. The material exchange apparatus contains a structured packing, with the structured packing containing a first packing layer (10) and a second packing layer (100). The first packing layer (10) and the second packing layer (100) have corrugations, with open channels (12, 14, 16, 112, 114, 116) being formed by the corrugations. The channels (12, 14, 16) of the first packing layer (10) cross the channels (112, 114,116) of the second packing layer, wherein the channels (12, 14, 16, 112, 114, 116) can be flowed through by the less volatile fluid so that the channel is wettable by the less volatile fluid, wherein a film of the less volatile fluid is formed on the surface of the channel, so that a purification can be carried out either of the more volatile fluid or of the less volatile fluid by a material exchange between the more volatile fluid and the less volatile fluid. The first packing layer (10) is in touching contact with the second packing layer (100) via spacer elements (24, 34, 44, 134, 144).
US08715397B2	Mixed amine and non-nucleophilic base CO2 scrubbing process for improved adsorption at increased temperatures A CO2 amine scrubbing process uses an absorbent mixture combination of an amine CO2 sorbent in combination with a non-nucleophilic, relatively stronger, typically nitrogenous, base. The weaker base(s) are nucleophilic and have the ability to react directly with the CO2 in the gas stream while the relatively stronger bases act as non-nucleophilic promoters for the reaction between the CO2 and the weaker base. The sorption and desorption temperatures can be varied by selection of the amine/base combination, permitting effective sorption temperatures of 70 to 90° C., favorable to scrubbing flue gas.
US08715394B2	Autothermal cycle for CO2 capture Provided herein are methods and apparatus for capturing or otherwise decreasing the amount of CO2 in an exhaust stream. The separation process for removing CO2 from a waste stream preferably operates substantially at atmospheric pressure and at a preselected temperature, and without the need of thermal swing regeneration. This novel elimination of the heat up and cool down periods allows the inventive cycle herein to be run faster, and more efficiently than in previously known systems. Further, in some examples herein, the heat of adsorption is used to provide the heat of regeneration.
US08715386B2	Process for preparing metal powders having low oxygen content, powders so-produced and uses thereof In various embodiments, low-oxygen metal powder is produced by heating a metal powder to a temperature at which an oxide of the metal powder becomes thermodynamically unstable and applying a pressure to volatilize the oxygen.
US08715379B2	Advanced ASU and HRSG integration for improved integrated gasification combined cycle efficiency A system and method for increasing the efficiency and/or power produced by an integrated gasification combined cycle system by increasing the integration between the air separation unit island, the heat recovery steam generator and the remainder of the system. By integrating heat produced by the heat recovery steam generator in the remainder of the integrated gasification combined cycle system, heat may be utilized that may have otherwise been lost or used further downstream in the system. The integration helps to increase the efficiency of the combustion reaction and/or the gasification reaction used to produce the syngas utilized in the integrated gasification combined cycle system.
US08715377B2	Stable suspensions of biomass comprising inorganic particulates Liquid suspensions are disclosed comprising a suspending medium, small particles of biomass, and small particles of an inorganic material. The inorganic material stabilizes the suspension, so that it may be transported by pipeline or tank car without developing a sediment.The suspension may be used in manufacturing a bio-fuel.
US08715373B2	Fuel composition comprising a nitrogen-containing compound A fuel additive concentrate comprising at least one aryl amine; and at least one metal-containing compound is disclosed. In an aspect, the fuel additive concentrate can be synergistic. Fuel composition comprising the fuel additive concentration and methods of combusting the fuel composition are also disclosed. Moreover, methods of enhancing research octane number, increasing fuel economy, and reducing the carbon footprint of a vehicle are also disclosed.
US08715372B2	Diesel cycle fuel compositions containing dianhydrohexitols and related products Diesel cycle fuel compositions are described containing at least one dianhydrohexitol compound according to the general formula 2 and/or its derived hydrocarbyl ethers or nitric ethers compounds, where the R′ and R″ substituents are both H or one or both of R′ and R″ is alkyl, cycloalkyl or phenyl, or one or both are —NO2. A preferred fuel composition is that containing dimethyl isosorbide (DMI) added or not of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) as ignition improver. The dianhydrohexitols compounds form compositions with at least one of the components selected among petroleum-derived diesel fuel, biodiesel, ethanol and water. The mixture of DMI and ISDN has excellent cetane number (IQT). Still, the oxygenated nature of the dianhydrohexitols and related compounds of the fuel compositions inhibits soot formation upon burning of the said Diesel cycle fuel compositions.
US08715366B2	Porous and nonporous materials for tissue grafting and repair Implants having improved mechanical properties and/or degradation profiles, kits including such implants, and methods of producing and using the same.
US08715362B2	Ankle replacement system A prosthesis suited for orthopedic implantation possesses a multi-piece stem component that supports an artificial joint surface that can articulate with another artificial joint surface in various ways. The prosthesis can be assembled in a snap fit and/or interlocking fashion that provides positive locking means without the use of screws or other fasteners. The prosthesis can accommodate fitment of a plastic joint surface made, e.g., from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. The prosthesis is well suited for use in an ankle replacement system that can be installed using minimally invasive intramedullary guidance established with respect to the major axis of the tibia by minimally invasive access through the calcaneus, through an incision in the bottom of the foot. The prosthesis makes possible the installation of a total ankle system using minimally invasive anterior access to the ankle joint for making bony cuts and to install prosthesis components.
US08715360B2	Systems and methods for providing an asymmetrical tibial component Systems and methods for providing deeper knee flexion capabilities. In some instances, such systems and methods include a tibial component that has an asymmetrical articular plateau that includes a medial tibial condylar surface and a lateral tibial condylar surface. In some cases, at least one of the medial condylar surface and the lateral condylar surface includes a concave articulation surface having a lowest point that disposed from a posterior edge of the tibial component by between about 18% and less than about 35% of a total anteroposterior dimension of the tibial component. Other implementations are also discussed.
US08715357B2	Systems and methods for providing a modular femoral component Systems and methods for providing deeper knee flexion capabilities. In some instances, such systems and methods include a modular component, wherein the modular component is configured to attach to a femoral component, and wherein the femoral component is configured to attach to a distal portion of a femur. In some cases, the modular component includes an articular surface that is configured to increase a surface area of an articulation surface of a proximal portion of a posterior condyle of the femoral component. Other implementations are also discussed.
US08715356B2	Prosthetic having a modular soft tissue fixation mechanism A method and apparatus for coupling soft tissue to a prosthetic is disclosed. Soft tissue attachment pads having porous metal attachment regions and suture accepting holes are selectively positioned onto an implantable prosthetic to provide coupling locations.
US08715351B1	Expandable interbody fusion device with graft chambers An expandable interbody fusion device includes superior and inferior plates that are configured to receive a sequentially inserted stack of expansion members or wafers in interlocking engagement. The superior and inferior plates have openings therethrough in communication with aligned holes through the wafers for receipt and containment of bone graft to promote fusion between opposing vertebral bodies. One of said superior and inferior endplates has a multi-contoured opening extending therethrough.
US08715349B2	Intervertebral spacer device An intervertebral spacer device includes a first plate and a second plate, each plate having an outer surface for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces. The device includes a ball captured in a central opening of a coupling element, the coupling element being maintained against the first plate by a retaining ring coupled with the first plate.
US08715344B2	Wholly implantable non-natural heart for humans A wholly implantable non-natural heart for humans includes a pumping unit, a power generating unit, and a controller. An I beam type chassis with matching holes is provided for supporting valve mounting bodies of the non-natural heart.
US08715332B2	Expandable stent delivery system with outer sheath According to aspects described herein, there is disclosed an improved hot balloon catheter delivery system for shape memory tubular stents is disclosed. An outer sheath is provided on the delivery system that facilitates stent placement on a balloon during delivery through an endoscope. In one embodiment, the stent may be positioned between radiopaque markers/electrodes and the balloon may be heated. The stent may be prevented from moving proximally relative to the catheter as the delivery system is tracked through the patient's anatomical passageways. The outer sheath may be positioned to ride over the proximal cone of the hot balloon catheter and abut the proximal end of the stent to facilitate proper alignment of the balloon for deployment. Upon deployment of the stent in an appropriate position, the sheath may be pulled away from the stent to expose the proximal cone of the balloon and thereby allow balloon and stent expansion.
US08715330B2	Temperature and flow control methods in a thermal therapy device A controlled temperature therapy system has a pump, a reservoir, and a therapy component. The reservoir has an inlet in communication with the therapy component and an outlet in communication with the pump. The reservoir may also include a baffle adjacent the outlet. The inlet may be a movable inlet, a nozzle or include a flow directing surface.
US08715327B1	Baroreflex modulation using light-based stimulation A system for stimulating a baroreflex of a patient that includes a first light source with a first emitter for emitting a first light, the first emitter at a first location proximate a target tissue having baroreceptor cells, and a second light source including a second emitter and for emitting a second light, the second emitter at a second location proximate the target tissue. The system also includes a control circuit coupled to the first and the second light sources, the control circuit configured to activate the first and the second light sources such that the first light traverses a first pathway to arrive at and penetrate the first portion of the target tissue and the second light-like traverses a second pathway to arrive at and penetrate the second portion of the target tissue, thereby stimulating the baroreceptor cells and activating a baroreflex of the patient.
US08715326B2	Distal interphalangeal fusion device and method of use Embodiments of the invention are directed to a distal interphalangeal (“DIP”) fusion device for connecting a first bone of a patient to a second, adjacent bone of the patient. The device may include an anchor assembly and a compressor assembly. In another embodiment, a separate compressor base assembly is included. In yet another embodiment an access port assembly is included. The anchor assembly is rotationally coupled to one end of the compressor assembly, such that the compressor assembly may rotate about the anchor assembly within a semi-spherical zone (three degrees of rotational freedom) and translate axially (one degree of translational freedom). In an operative position, the anchor assembly is anchored in an intermediate phalanx of a digit of a patient, the compressor assembly is contained in a distal phalanx of the digit, and the distal phalanx is flexed relative to the intermediate phalanx to create a joint angle. The joint angle is then fixated for fusion by compressing the phalanges together in the flexed position by counter-rotation of the compressor assembly. An advantage of an embodiment of the invention is the screw threads may be matching which eliminates the need to pre-drill two different diameter pilot holes.
US08715324B2	Fixation plate A fixation plate with a base section including apertures for fixation to one bone segment and a leg section extending from the base section and including apertures for fixation to another bone segment. The expanse of the base section tapers gradually to smoothly cojoin with the leg section.
US08715318B2	Medical device for modification of left atrial appendage and related systems and methods Devices, methods and systems are provided for occluding an opening within the tissue of a body, such as a left atrial appendage. In one embodiment, a system for use in occluding an opening in the tissue of a body includes a handle, a catheter coupled with the handle and a medical device disposed within a lumen of the catheter. The medical device includes an anchor system having a plurality of anchor segments coupled with an anchor hub. The medical device further includes an occluder system having a plurality of occluder segments coupled with an occluder hub. A first actuator is configured to displace the occluder hub independent of, and relative to, the anchor hub to deploy the occluder system from a refracted state to an expanded state while the anchor system remains in a retracted state.
US08715315B1	Vascular treatment systems Vascular treatment and methods include a plurality of self-expanding bulbs and a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Joints between woven structures and hypotubes include solder. Woven structures include patterns of radiopaque filaments measurable under x-ray. Structures are heat treated to include at least shapes at different temperatures. A catheter includes a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Heat treating systems include a detachable flange. Laser cutting systems include a fluid flow system.
US08715310B2	Non-compliant medical balloon A non-compliant fiber-reinforced medical balloon comprises a first fiber layer and a second fiber layer embedded in a continuous matrix of thermally-weldable polymer material defining a barrel wall, cone walls and neck walls. The fibers of the first fiber layer run substantially parallel to one another and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The fibers of the first fiber layer have a pattern of different lengths and are divisible into a first group and a second group based on length.
US08715307B2	Device for performing an incision The present invention relates to a device for performing an incision in a region of interest of a patient, said device including a blade portion for providing the incision, said blade attached to a biasing means to enact a vertical force on said blade so that the blade is biased in a retracted position, a triggering means for activating the blade to move from a previously retained pre-operating position, to an operating position where the blade contacts a region of interest of the patient thereby performing an incision, and to a post operating position, a guide means to guide a path of the blade as it moves in an operating position said blade portion adapted to engage said guide means when in an operating position, so that a path of the blade in an operating position is guided, the device further including a housing to house said device, said housing having an elongate slot at one end, where in an operating position, the blade extends therethrough said slot, and in a pre and post operating position, the blade does not extend therethrough said slot, wherein the blade, biasing means and the triggering means are integral to one another, forming a plate.
US08715305B2	Magnetic ventricular connector A magnetic coupling for connecting a cannula to the apex of a ventricle comprising a first member having a first orifice, a first magnetic material attached to the first member, a means for attaching a cannula to the first member, a second member having a second orifice, a second magnetic material attached to the second member, a means for attaching the second member to a ventricle, so that when the first magnet is placed in proximity to the second magnet the first member and second member are held substantially concentric by magnetic force to allow for the communication of fluid between the first and second orifices.
US08715303B2	Sizing and positioning adapter for medical instruments In accordance with the present invention there is provided apparatuses and methods for using a medical instrument including a sizing and positioning adapter. The apparatus comprises an adapter for a medical instrument, the adapt having a body having a shim portion and an instrument holding portion adjacent the shim portion, wherein the shim portion provides an enlarged peripheral surface adjacent the medical instrument such that when the medical instrument is held in the instrument holding portion and the medical instrument and body are inserted through an opening in a patient tissue, at least a portion of the enlarged peripheral surface is in contact with at least a portion of the periphery of the opening in the patient tissue.
US08715301B2	Arthroscopic soft tissue plication systems and methods A system and method for repairing soft tissue comprises introducing an instrument having a shaft into an operative site, such as a human shoulder. Then, a flexible grasper is advanced from the instrument to capture a portion of soft tissue. The flexible grasper is then retracted so that the captured tissue lies in a pathway for a needle in the instrument. The needle is advanced along the pathway through the captured tissue, and then a portion of suture is captured with the needle, distally of the captured tissue. The needle is retracted proximally through the captured tissue, to thereby pass the suture therethrough and plicate the tissue. The plicated tissue is then released from the grasper.
US08715296B2	Adjustable tracking reference comprising a curable bonding connection The invention relates to a medical tracking reference, comprising a fastening arm and a reference array holding arm to which a reference array is or can be attached, and comprising a joint between the arms which can be fixed using a fixing array, wherein the fixing array of the joint comprises a bonding connection which can be fixed using a curable bonding agent. It also relates to a method for setting the alignment of a medical tracking reference.
US08715294B2	Gastric instrument sleeve to prevent cross contamination of stomach content and provide fixation and repeatable path A transgastric instrument provides a sterile and repeatable pathway to and through a gastric wall for the purpose of facilitating endoscopic transgastric procedures. The instrument includes at least one guide tube having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being shaped and dimensioned for positioning adjacent a desired location along the gastric wall. The instrument also includes a fixation mechanism at the distal end of the guide tube for selectively securing the distal end of the guide tube at a desired location along the gastric wall. An otomy creation device circumferentially smaller than the guide tube extends through the guide tube, the otomy creation device including a distal end shaped and dimensioned for cutting and dilating the gastric wall.
US08715287B2	Apparatus and method to provide emergency access to bone marrow An apparatus and method for penetrating the bone marrow is provided. The apparatus includes a housing, a penetrator assembly, operable to penetrate the bone marrow, a connector operable to releasably attach the penetrator assembly to a drill shaft, the drill shaft operable to connect the penetrator assembly to a gear assembly, a gear assembly operable to engage and rotate the drill shaft, a motor operable to engage the reduction gear assembly and drive the penetrator into the bone marrow by rotation of the drill shaft, and a power supply and associated circuitry operable to power the motor. The apparatus and method may be adapted to insert a probe through the skull and into the brain.
US08715286B2	Porous and nonporous materials for tissue grafting and repair Implants, such as interbody spacers, fusion devices and bone grafts, are provided having improved mechanical properties and/or degradation profiles. Such implants include a three-dimensional scaffold formed from particles, such as microspheres, which may in some embodiments be resorbable or biodegradable and which may have at least two different degradation rates. In some embodiments, the scaffold may be elastomeric. The three-dimensional scaffold may be for example, porous or semi-porous. Also provided are kits including such implants, and methods of producing and using the same.
US08715282B2	System and method for altering rotational alignment of bone sections A rotational correction system includes an implant having first and second sections, the implant having a rotatable permanent magnet disposed in a housing of the first section, the rotatable permanent magnet mechanically connected to a nut operatively coupled to the second section. A keyed portion is interposed between the nut and one or more non-linear grooves disposed on an inner surface of the housing. An external adjustment device having at least one rotatable magnet configured to rotate the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant is part of the system. Rotation of the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant in a first direction effectuates a clockwise change in the rotational orientation of the first section relative to the second section and rotation of the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant in a second direction effectuates a counter-clockwise change in the rotational orientation of the first section relative to the second section.
US08715279B2	Magnetically guided catheter A catheter includes a flexible tubing having a proximal end and a distal end. The catheter also includes an electrode assembly attached to the distal end of the flexible tubing and having a first magnet therein. The electrode assembly further includes an electrically conductive tip electrode and an electrically nonconductive coupler which is connected between the tip electrode and the distal end of the flexible tubing. The coupler and the tip electrode are coupled by an interlocking connection. The catheter also includes a second magnet spaced from the electrode assembly along a longitudinal axis of the tubing. The first magnet and the second magnet are responsive to an external magnetic field to selectively position and guide the electrode assembly within a body of a patient.
US08715276B2	Methods and apparatus for treatment of hollow anatomical structures One embodiment comprises an apparatus for applying energy to a hollow anatomical structure having an inner wall. The apparatus comprises an elongate shaft having a distal end and a proximal end opposite the distal end; and a capacitive treatment element located near the distal end. The capacitive treatment element is sized for insertion into the hollow anatomical structure and placement near the inner wall. The capacitive treatment element is configured to create an electric field that extends at least partially into the inner wall. Other devices and methods for treatment of hollow anatomical structures are disclosed as well.
US08715272B2	Device and process for machining the human eye using laser technology A device for machining the human cornea with focused laser radiation includes controllable components for setting the location of the radiation focus, a control computer for controlling these components, and also a control program for the control computer. The control program contains instructions that have been designed to bring about, upon execution by the control computer, the generation of incisions in the cornea in accordance with a predetermined incision figure, the incision figure defining a corneal bed, a flap situated on the bed and also at least one tissue strip situated in the region of the peripheral edge of the flap between the bed and the flap and extending along the edge of the flap. After the flap has been folded away, the tissue strip has to be removed and enables a creaseless post-ablative close fitting of the folded-back flap against the surface of the bed. In this manner, microstriae which may impair the visual capacity can be avoided.
US08715271B2	Linear body drive device A linear body drive device capable of safely and reliably operating a linear body is provided. A linear body insertion device includes a drive portion, an operation portion, a sensor portion and a processing portion serving as a measurement portion, and an output portion serving as a notification portion. The drive portion drives a linear body having flexibility. The operation portion includes an input member (an operation lever) operated by an operator for controlling performance of the drive portion. The sensor portion included in the measurement portion detects compressive force in a direction of longitudinal axis applied to the linear body, based on a degree of bending of the linear body driven by the drive portion. The output portion provides notification of data of compressive force detected by the measurement portion.
US08715269B2	Devices and methods for intraoral controlled drug release Embodiments of the invention disclose a system for controlled oral drug delivery. The system comprising a removable device comprising a drug to be delivered, wherein the drug is delivered based on osmotic pressure generated in the removable device. Further, the system comprises a receptacle to hold the removable device in an oral cavity, and a base station configured to dock the removable device for determining information about one or more characteristics of the removable device.
US08715266B2	Glaucoma surgery Eye diseases such as glaucoma can be treated using a composition containing cross-linked hyaluronic acid or a cross-linked salt of hyaluronic acid such as sodium hyalurate. The composition can be a monophasic gel. The composition can include a cross-linking agent such as 1,4-butanediol diglycidylether. The composition can contains about 2.25% (w/w) of the salt of hyaluronic acid. The composition can have a cross-linking rate of about 0.5 to 50%.
US08715264B2	Charged hydrator A charged hydration device and a method of filling the hydration device so the charged hydration that can be mounted to a medical apparatus that provides insufflation fluid to a body cavity either immediately prior to the medical procedure or during a medical procedure with the charged hydration device including an inlet and outlet for an inline connection with the medical apparatus so that an insufflation gas delivered through the charged hydration device is hydrated to prevent tissue damage to a person receiving the insufflation gas.
US08715261B2	Absorbent article having line of weakness for folding the article A feminine care absorbent article has a longitudinal axis, a transverse axis, and an absorbent structure configured for disposition adjacent a female wearer's vaginal region to absorb bodily fluids discharged by the wearer. The absorbent structure has end portions and a middle portion located between the end portions. The absorbent structure has at least one line of weakness disposed in one of the end portions and configured to facilitate folding of the absorbent structure in a longitudinal direction in response to a lateral compressive force. The absorbent structure has a relief for inhibiting the longitudinal folding of the absorbent structure facilitated by the at least one line of weakness from extending beyond the middle portion of the absorbent structure.
US08715260B2	Absorbent article comprising a detachable stiffening element An absorbent article having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, a front portion, a rear portion and a crotch portion located between the front portion and the rear portion. The article includes an absorption member having an upper side intended to face a wearer during use of the article and a lower side intended to face away from the wearer during use of the article, and a stiffening element that, at least during use of the article, provides the article with a predetermined shape that enhances the fit of the article to the wearer's body. The stiffening element is secured to the upper side of the absorption member such that an outer side of the stiffening element faces away from the absorption member. The stiffening element includes a material exhibiting mechanical fastening properties on its outer side.
US08715258B2	Absorbent article having outwardly convex longitudinal central channels for improved protection An absorbent article having a pair of longitudinal edges, front and rear transverse edges, a front end region, a rear end region, and a central region disposed between the front and rear end regions. The absorbent article has a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, and a pair of outwardly convex longitudinal central channels formed at least in the central region. The traversal distance of the pair of outwardly convex longitudinal central channels decreases towards both ends of the channels to define a central closed area. The absorbent article has a rear channel defining a rear closed area in the rear end region. The absorbent core is profiled within the central closed area so that the central region has a caliper that is greater than the caliper of the outside of the central closed area.
US08715257B2	Ratio of absorbent area to outer peripheral area for disposable absorbent articles A disposable absorbent article has an absorbent core having a surface area and a stretchable multilayer chassis having a surface area. The multilayer chassis is stretchable in at least the cross-machine direction. The stretchable multilayer chassis has at least a stretchable bodyside liner and stretchable outer cover such that the absorbent core is affixed to at least one layer of the stretchable multilayer chassis. The percentage ratio of the surface area of the absorbent core to the surface area of the stretchable multilayer chassis is less than about 50%.
US08715256B2	Vacuum assisted wound dressing Apparatus for the application of topical negative pressure therapy to a wound site is described, the apparatus comprising: a wound contacting element for retaining wound exudate fluid therein; a wound covering element that provides a substantially airtight seal over the wound contacting element and wound site; a vacuum connection tube connecting a wound cavity to a vacuum source; and a vacuum source connected to a distal end of the vacuum connection tube.
US08715245B2	Devices and methods for injection of media into human and animal tissue Embodiments of a medical hand-grip element for injection of a substance from an ampoule, comprise a drive device for driving the ampoule and the injection needle, a delivery device for delivering the medicinal substance out of the ampoule and a coupling device for rotationally fixed coupling of the ampoule with the injection needle and for preventing a relative movement between the ampoule and the injection needle is disclosed. Embodiments of injection systems, injection units, injection needles and handling methods for them are also disclosed in which the risk of injury and contamination for the user is reduced by providing approaches for covering the ends of the cannulas of the injection needles during a number of handling steps.
US08715244B2	Extensible internal bolster for a medical device An internal bolster for use securing a medical device, such as a feeding tube, within a body of a patient is disclosed. In one embodiment, a feeding tube includes an internal bolster, comprising one or more bolster arms that each include a first end hingedly connected to a distal end of the medical device and a free second end. The bolster arms are selectively deployable between a first position wherein the bolster arms are substantially in-line with an axis of feeding tube, and a second position wherein the bolster arms are substantially deflected from the axis of the feeding tube to enable securement of the feeding tube within a stoma or other opening defined in the body. Various means for selectively moving the bolster arms between the first and second positions are disclosed. Related methods of use are also disclosed.
US08715243B2	Injection port applier with downward force actuation An injection port applier is configured to engage an injection port that has integral fasteners that are movable from a non-deployed position to a deployed position. The applier comprises a shaft, a port engagement portion, and a handle. The port engagement portion is includes a fastener deployment member that is operable to move the fasteners to the deployed position. The handle comprises a first handle portion and a second handle portion. The second handle portion is movable distally relative to the first handle portion in order to actuate the fastener deployment member, to thereby move the fasteners to the deployed position. An elongate actuating member couples the second handle portion with the fastener deployment member. One part of the elongate actuating member translates longitudinally in response to the second handle being moved distally; while another part of the elongate actuating member rotates in response to the first portion translating.
US08715241B2	Needle assembly Needle assemblies are disclosed. In some embodiments, the needle assembly includes a main housing including an obturator insertion opening and an opposite needle connection opening, a connector housing configured to engage the main housing, the connector housing including obturator, tubing, and plug openings, a self-sealing plug including a channel, the plug positioned within the connector housing so the channel is aligned with the tubing opening, a needle holder base, and a needle. The connector housing is configured to engage the main housing in first and second positions. The obturator opening is axially aligned with the obturator insertion opening and axially aligned with the needle in the first position. The tubing opening is axially aligned with the obturator insertion opening and in fluid connection with the needle in the second position.
US08715239B2	Devices, systems and methods for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia and other conditions Devices, systems and methods for compressing, cutting, incising, reconfiguring, remodeling, attaching, repositioning, supporting, dislocating or altering the composition of tissues or anatomical structures to alter their positional or force relationship to other tissues or anatomical structures. In some applications, the invention may be used to used to improve patency or fluid flow through a body lumen or cavity (e.g., to limit constriction of the urethra by an enlarged prostate gland).
US08715238B2	Pumping device, as for enteral feeding assembly A pumping device is disclosed, as for use with an enteral feeding assembly. In one form the pumping device is a diaphragm pump including a first dome portion, a second dome portion, and a flexible membrane located between the first and second dome portions. A pressure differential is created between the two chambers thus created by membrane, so as to meter fluid (to be delivered) to a patient. The fluid to be delivered may be located in one of the chambers. A portable fluid pump is also provided including a syringe and spring pump drive mechanism mounted in a casing. The spring pump drive mechanism has two piston devices in fluid communication with each other. As one piston device moves in one direction within its associated driving barrel, it serves to drive the other piston device.
US08715236B2	Mobile infusion device Various embodiments are described herein for a mobile infusion device that does not use gravity to expel fluid from a bag. The device has a housing with a central chamber connected with an opening to receive a portion of the bag during use. A rotation assembly is coupled to the housing and includes at least one roller located within the central chamber and a spring mechanism operatively coupled to the at least one roller to rotate it to move the bag and apply a force to a portion of the bag to expel fluid therefrom during use. A control mechanism is operatively coupled to the rotation assembly and has a control assembly to control rotation of the rotation assembly and a user interface coupled to the control assembly to allow a user to select a mode of operation for the device. The spring mechanism is recharged in standby mode. Various mechanisms can be used in various embodiments to improve functionality such as a gearing mechanism.
US08715235B2	Dialysis system having disposable cassette and heated cassette interface A dialysis fluid flow control system includes a pumping cassette interface including a pump area operable with a pump chamber of a disposable cassette; the cassette interface further including a volumetric reference chamber used in a volumetric control of a dialysis fluid pumped pneumatically into and out of the pump chamber of the disposable cassette; a heater connected operably to the cassette interface; and a controller connected operably to the heater so as to cause the heater to heat at least a portion of the cassette interface to a desired temperature.
US08715228B2	Balloon catheter with metal shaft A balloon catheter has an elongated flexible shaft made of a metal and at least one inflatable balloon mounted on a distal end area of the flexible shaft. A wall of the shaft providing the mechanical properties for flexibility and pushability is entirely made of metal, the wall has a sheet-like shape, and the wall has an outer diameter up to 0.5 mm and a wall thickness in a range from 0.02 mm to 0.1 mm.
US08715221B2	Wearable kidney The present invention relates to a wearable peritoneal dialysis system and a replaceable cartridge in the wearable peritoneal dialysis system that regenerates the peritoneal dialysis solution without removing essential ions from the solution and, consequently, the patient. The invention also relates to methods of removing uremic waste metabolites from a patient using the wearable peritoneal dialysis system. A source of one or more enzymes that degrades uremic waste metabolites can be administered orally in conjunction with use of the wearable peritoneal dialysis system such that the load of toxins needing to be eliminated by the wearable peritoneal dialysis system is reduced. The wearable peritoneal dialysis system is meant to operate continuously or semi-continuously, its components small and light enough that it can be comfortably worn by a patient constantly, without burden.
US08715219B2	System and method for improved gas recirculation in surgical trocars with pneumatic sealing Systems for insufflation and recirculation of insufflation fluid in a surgical procedure include a control unit having a fluid pump, a supply conduit, a return fluid conduit and a pressure-controlled valve. The pressure-controlled valve is in fluid communication with an insufflation gas supply, the supply conduit and the return conduit and is adapted and configured to respond to pressure control signals to adjust position and thereby system flow parameters, to reduce entrainment of air from the surrounding environment, and to increase the concentration of insufflation gas in an operative space, and/or to reduce an overpressure condition in the operative space.
US08715217B2	Infusion site for improved mixing of fluids The invention relates to a blood line (108) comprising an infusion site (145) intended to inject into the line a solution, comprising: —a first main channel (200) having a first passage section, —a second main channel (220) having a second passage section, —means for the formation (210) of a turbulence area located downstream from the first main channel, located upstream from the second main channel, these formation means comprising a first fluid passage means (224) defining a reduction (225) in the passage section and whose smallest passage section is smaller than the first passage section and smaller than the second fluid passage section, —a secondary channel (230) comprising an inlet (231) for letting in the solution and an outlet (232) in fluid communication with the first main channel or the means for the formation of a turbulence area or the second main channel.
US08715215B2	Method for verifying and/or monitoring the correct function of a supply device A method of checking and/or monitoring the correct operation of an adding device of a medical apparatus includes detecting a characteristic signal course being generated by the adding device. The medical apparatus includes an extracorporeal circuit with which the adding device is connected such that an agent can be introduced into the extracorporeal circuit via the adding device. The pressure loss in the extracorporeal circuit is measured and evaluated for checking and/or monitoring the correct operation of the adding device. The adding device for this purpose generates an oscillating pressure course.
US08715213B2	Bone metabolism improving agent The present invention has as an object to provide a bone metabolism improving agent that improves bone metabolism in a chronic renal failure patient receiving blood purification therapy such as hemodialysis, hemofiltration and hemodiafiltration. An acetic acid- and/or acetate salt-free bone metabolism improving agent that contains citric acid and/or a citrate salt as electrolytes and further contains another/other electrolyte/electrolytes and glucose solely or in combination is provided. A bone metabolism improving agent formulated into a dialysate or a substitution fluid having effects of improving bone metabolism including bone metabolism improvement in adynamic bone disease and especially in bone agenesis is also provided.
US08715207B2	Universal valve annulus sizing device A device for measuring an internal dimension of a native cardiac valve annulus includes an elongated support member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A measuring portion is coupled to the distal portion, and an indicator is coupled to the proximal portion of the support member. The measuring portion is biased towards a deployed configuration such that when deployed it applies an outwardly directed radial force to the native valve annulus.
US08715202B2	Minimally invasive image-based determination of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in exhaled breath What is disclosed is a system and method for image-based determination of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in exhaled breath. In one embodiment, an image of the exhaled airstream of a subject of interest is received. The image is captured using a mid-wave infrared camera system having an optical filter tuned to the infrared absorption band of CO2. The image is preprocessed to isolate a region of pixels containing the exhaled airstream and intensity values of pixels in the identified region are normalized by a value of a known radiance such as that of the subject's nose or face. The image is analyzed to determine CO2 concentration levels of the exhaled airstream using a calibration curve which relates pixel intensity to CO2 concentrations. The calibration curve is derived using a physics-based parameterized model. The CO2 concentration levels are determined and communicated to a computer workstation. Various embodiments are disclosed.
US08715200B2	System for determining the blood flow in a coronary artery The invention relates to a method and a system for determining the blood flow in an individual coronary artery of a patient, wherein the method comprises the steps of positioning a temperature sensor mounted at a distal portion of a guide wire at a distal position in the coronary artery, positioning an infusion catheter in the coronary artery such that the distal end of the infusion catheter is proximally of the temperature sensor, measuring the blood temperature with the temperature sensor, infusing cold indicator fluid with a known infusion rate and known or measurable temperature into the coronary artery by the infusion catheter, measuring the temperature of the mixture of blood and indicator fluid by the temperature sensor, and calculating the coronary blood flow by a formula based on the known and measured quantities. In an extended version, the method comprises steps for relating the calculated coronary flow value to related normal flow values, or related FFR values, or a related flow resistance.
US08715199B1	System and method to define a rotational source associated with a biological rhythm disorder An example system and method of defining a rotational source associated with a heart rhythm disorder are disclosed. A plurality of center locations of wave fronts are calculated at a plurality of time points associated with the heart rhythm disorder. A rotational path that connects the plurality of center locations is then determined. The system and method can also determine a likely core associated with the rotational path. A plurality of relative diffusion shapes associated with the plurality of the center locations is calculated. A plurality of intersecting points of a smallest relative diffusion shape and other relative diffusion shapes is determined within the rotational path. A bounded polygon of the intersecting points is defined as the likely core.
US08715197B2	Blood pressure information measurement device A blood pressure information measurement device instantaneously changes cuff pressure in a specified pressure section in order to detect a control target value in artery volume constant control. An artery volume signal is detected in that period, and an inflection point of the detected artery volume signal is detected by performing differentiation processing or the like. The inflection point of the detected artery volume signal is fixed as the control target value.
US08715194B2	Screening for early detection of cardiovascular disease in asymptomatic individuals Screening apparently healthy individuals using sensitive techniques for identifying early vascular and cardiac disease provides the opportunity for effective intervention to prevent or delay the occurrence of cardiovascular events which represent the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in our society. Preliminary studies have revealed an incidence of over 50% of early disease in need of therapy. The apparent ineffectiveness of the health care system to uncover this early disease emphasizes the need for a more aggressive community approach to screen for early disease and to initiate therapy that should reduce health care costs and improve quality and duration of life.
US08715189B2	Ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus for setting a 3D ROI using voxel values and opacity According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe, an ultrasonic transmission/reception unit, a volume data generating unit, a projected image generating unit, a two dimensional region-of-interest setting unit, a specifying unit, a calculation unit and a three-dimensional region-of-interest determination unit. The specifying unit specifies cells on rays which pass through the respective pixels in the 2D-ROI and are used to acquire a VR image. The calculation unit calculates the contribution degree of each cell based on the voxel value and opacity of each cell specified and calculates the average value of the contribution degrees of cells equal in distance from the screen of the VR image along the line-of-sight direction. The three-dimensional region-of-interest determination unit specifies the distances from the screen of the VR image which correspond to average contribution values exceeding the predetermined threshold and determines the position of the 3D-ROI in the volume data.
US08715185B2	Methods and apparatus for ultrasound imaging A first ultrasound pulse is applied to biological tissue to create shear waves in the biological tissue, a focused ultrasound pulse is transmitted into the biological tissue, one or more ultrasound signals is received from the biological tissue, and shear waves are detected in the biological tissue based on the received one or more ultrasound signals. At least one propagation property associated with the detected shear waves is determined, and the determined at least one propagation property is displayed.
US08715183B2	Methods and apparatus for automated measuring of the interventricular septum thickness A method for automatically measuring interventricular septum thickness is provided. The method in one embodiment comprises acquiring a series of ultrasound images of a heart, acquiring a septum mask by applying a septum segmentation algorithm on the series of ultrasound images, localizing a mitral valve tip using a valve tip localization algorithm and calculating the thickness of the interventricular septum using an interventricular septum thickness algorithm. The interventricular septum thickness algorithm uses the septum mask and the localized mitral valve tip as inputs.
US08715182B2	Ultrasonic imaging apparatus and stress echo browsing apparatus In plural types of stress echocardiographies, every time a single type of stress or plural types of stresses are applied to a site in plural examination stages for the respective types, a data acquiring part transmits ultrasonic waves to a subject of a data acquisition target, and when reflected waves are received, values of plural types of parameters signifying the state of the site of the subject are obtained. Subsequently, when receiving a request to browse the examination results by designation of the type of stress echocardiography through an operation part, a display controller reads out, from the storage, the values of the parameters of the stress echocardiography of the designated type and displays a list of the values of the parameters on a graphic with one item as the types of the parameters and the other item as the respective examination stages of the designated stress examination.
US08715181B2	Feedback systems and methods for communicating diagnostic and/or treatment signals to enhance obesity treatments Feedback systems and methods communicate implanted sensor-based feedback signals to promote behavior modifications that ameliorate obesity and other eating disorders. The system and methods described may also be applicable to any treatment in which presenting feedback regarding patients' eating and exercise habits is desired. The present invention provides a method and system for treating a patient by collecting ingestion and exercise information about the patient from an implanted sensor and communicating the collected information to the patient, his or her physician and/or other health care providers. In some embodiments, stimulation of the patient's stomach is also provided to reduce caloric intake. In some embodiments, the collected data is transmitted to a central server. Further embodiments may provide access to additional information in conjunction with the collected patient information, such as a calorie database, an exercise planner, and so forth, with the data optionally being used within a social networking system.
US08715176B2	Method for automated delivery of personalized physical therapy sessions to treat pain A user directed interactive method and system for implementing customized therapy routines. The method and system obtains relevant information from a user via an interactive questionnaire and via digital therapeutic techniques to evaluate the user's pain and provide a customized treatment regimen. The user then implements the custom treatment regimen in order to return their body to proper alignment thereby bringing about a state of muscular and internal balance to the individual naturally. In this manner, the method and system of the present invention replicates the process of in-clinic and video therapy programs while delivering customized therapy sessions and long-term therapy programs based on the user's individual needs via an electronic medium that is completely automated without the need for professional intervention, evaluation, or correspondence of any kind.
US08715175B2	Thoracic retractor A surgical retractor has a rail, a first arm protruding from the rail at an angle, a second arm being movably mounted on the rail and extending substantially parallel to the first arm, and a multiplicity of holding elements mounted on the first and second arms. A holding element has a multi-axis joint for pivotably holding a blade for engaging tissue to be retracted. In this way, a most flexible surgical retractor is provided.
US08715167B2	Autofocus and/or autoscaling in telesurgery Robotic, telerobotic, and/or telesurgical devices, systems, and methods take advantage of robotic structures and data to calculate changes in the focus of an image capture device in response to movement of the image capture device, a robotic end effector, or the like. As the size of an image of an object shown in the display device varies with changes in a separation distance between that object and the image capture device used to capture the image, a scale factor between a movement command input may be changed in response to moving an input device or a corresponding master/slave robotic movement command of the system. This may enhance the perceived correlation between the input commands and the robotic movements as they appear in the image presented to the system operator.
US08715165B2	Fluid seal for endoscope A seal is provided for effectively inhibiting the egress of fluids from the working channel of an endoscope when an elongate device having a region with a non-circular cross-sectional shape is disposed therein. The seal has a body portion with a proximal end adapted for insertion of the elongate device, a distal end adapted for connection to the proximal end of the endoscope, and a wall defining a lumen adapted to receive the elongate device and to provide access to the working channel of the endoscope. The seal includes a sealing element for sealing the region of the elongate device with a non-circular cross-sectional shape. The sealing element conforms to the profile of the non-circular region.
US08715162B2	Method for complex phaloplasty using circumcised foreskin as autograft Disclosed is a method for complex phalloplasty for widening a penis, using a circumcised foreskin as an autologous graft. In the method, a foreskin cut off by circumcision, conventionally discarded as waste, is implanted as an autograft in phalloplasty, whereby the penis can be widened.
US08715158B2	Implantable bottom exit port The present invention provides a system for attaching a fluid access port to a patient. The system generally comprises an implantable access port with a bottom exit port and method for attaching an access port to a patient. In addition, a tube guard, flexible tube exit port, tissue guard, and porous coupling member are disclosed.
US08715157B2	Magnetic gastric band or the like, and related methods A structure that can be used as a gastric band (and that may also have other uses as an implant elsewhere in a patient) includes a plurality of magnetic elements in a serial array that can be implanted so that the array extends in a circumferential direction around the patient's stomach (or other body tissue structure in the patient). Circumferentially adjacent magnetic elements magnetically attract one another to apply radial pressure to the tissue structure encompassed by the array, but those elements can also move apart in response to sufficient outward pressure from the encompassed tissue structure and/or the contents of (e.g., food in) that tissue structure. When used as a gastric band, the device can provide resistance to excessive food intake, which can help promote weight loss.
US08715156B2	Modification of properties and geometry of heart tissue to influence function Materials, devices and methods for the treatment of congestive heart failure are disclosed. In these methods, the volume of the left ventricle is reduced, thereby increasing the efficiency of the pumping action of the heart. Volume reduction is accomplished by introduction of biocompatible materials into the wall of the left ventricle, or into the ventricle itself. Suitable biocompatible materials include those that undergo a phase transition within the ventricle or within the wall of the ventricle, and are thereby converted from a substantially liquid state to a substantially solid state. Such materials also include those which increase in volume during the transition from the liquid state to the solid state. Also disclosed is a method for ventricular geometry reduction wherein flexible, elastic bands are attached to the external surface of the heart to effect a decrease in the volume of the left ventricle. Finally, disclosed are devices including catheters and elastic bands that are usable in these treatments.
US08715155B2	Embryo development and survival An embryo that is transferred into the uterus of a recipient female is protected from toxic effects of prostaglandin F2α by exposing the embryo, or an oocyte from which the embryo is produced, to a prostaglandin antagonist.
US08715152B2	Optical electro-mechanical hearing devices with separate power and signal components A device to transmit an audio signal comprises at least one light source configured to transmit the audio signal with at least one wavelength of light. At least one detector is configured to detect the audio signal and generate at least one electrical signal in response to the at least one wavelength of light. A transducer is supported with and configured to vibrate at least one of an eardrum, an ossicle or a cochlea. Active circuitry is coupled to the transducer to drive the transducer in response to the at least one electrical signal, so as to provide the user with high quality sound.
US08715150B2	Devices for controlling magnetic nanoparticles to treat fluid obstructions The present invention relates to a system for the physical manipulation of free magnetic rotors in a circulatory system using a remotely placed magnetic field-generating stator. In one aspect, the invention relates to the control of magnetic particles in a fluid medium using permanent magnet-based or electromagnetic field-generating stator sources. Such a system can be useful for increasing the diffusion of therapeutic agents in a fluid medium, such as a human circulatory system, which can result in substantial clearance of fluid obstructions, such as vascular occlusions, in a circulatory system resulting in increased blood flow. Examples of vascular occlusions targeted by the system include, but are not limited to, atherosclerotic plaques, including fibrous caps, fatty buildup, coronary occlusions, arterial stenosis, restenosis, vein thrombi, arterial thrombi, cerebral thrombi, embolisms, hemorrhages, other blood clots, and very small vessels.
US08715149B2	Sheet post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus A first folding portion includes: a first folding roller pair consisting of a common roller and a first roller; and a blade member that feeds a sheet to a first nip, thereby forming a first fold on the sheet in the first nip. A second folding portion includes a second folding roller pair consisting of the common roller and a second roller, thereby forming a second fold on the sheet in a second nip. The common roller and the first roller are parallel in a conveying direction in a case where the sheet is guided toward the first folding portion. The blade member moves in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to a conveyance surface. The common roller is disposed on an upstream side of the first roller in the sheet conveying direction.
US08715143B2	Dumbbell A dumbbell with a selectable number of weight disks includes a handle with pins projectable in opposing directions, a base assembly for accommodating two sets of weight disks standing upright, and having through-going openings. Neighboring weight disks have mutually cooperating connecting arrangements which axially interconnect the weight disks but which permit radial separation. The projection lengths of the pins are stepwise selectable in order thereby to permit selection of the number of weight disks carried on the handle. The handle has, in opposing ends, connecting arrangements for interconnecting with the connecting arrangements of the innermost weight disks in the base assembly. Further, the space between the connecting arrangements of the handle is free through 360° about the handle throughout its entire length, the openings of the weight disks being centrally located.
US08715131B2	Multi-speed transmission having a stacked planetary gear set A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, two planetary gear sets, a planetary gear set assembly, 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 planetary gear set assembly is a stacked planetary gear set that includes a first, second, third and fourth member. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are each selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least eleven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08715130B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Two of the four planetary gear sets are stacked. Two of the planetary gear sets include first, second and third members. The two planetary gear sets that are stacked form a planetary gear set assembly that includes a first, second, third and fourth member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
US08715129B1	Multi-speed transmission A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are each selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish a plurality forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08715128B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear, a carrier member supporting a plurality of planet pinion gears and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish a plurality forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08715127B2	Axle assembly with axle housing assembly having air scoops for cooling An axle assembly having a heat sink coupled to an axle housing assembly for ejecting heat from the axle assembly. The heat sink includes an air channel having a body coupled to the carrier housing assembly such that heat is conducted from the carrier housing assembly to the body of the air channel and an air passage formed in the body and having an open leading end and an open trailing end, the leading end being positioned relative to the carrier housing assembly to permit air flowing over the axle assembly when the axle assembly is in use to be received into the air passage such that heat is conducted from the body to the air flowing through the air passage, and the trailing end being positioned relative to the carrier housing assembly to permit air received in the air passage to be expelled through the trailing end.
US08715126B2	Powertrain for a vehicle A propulsion system for a vehicle has output shaft (2) of a combustion engine (1), which is connected to a first component (9) of a planetary gear so that they rotate at a first speed (n1). An input shaft (3) of a gearbox (4) is connected to a second component (11) of the planetary gear so that they rotate at a second speed (n2). An electrical machine is connected to a third component (10) of the planetary gear so that the third component (10) rotates at a third speed (n3). A control unit (17) estimates in appropriate operating situations a desired speed (n2) for the gearbox input shaft (3). The unit receives information about the speed (n1) of the engine output shaft (2). It causes the electrical machine to give the third component (10) of the planetary gear a speed (n3) which in conjunction with the speed (n1) of the engine output shaft (2) results in the gearbox input shaft (3) assuming the desired speed (n2).
US08715121B2	Overrunning isolating decoupler pulleys Embodiments of the present invention provide improved overrunning pulleys that overcome one or more of the deficiencies in the prior art noted above. Embodiments of the present invention provide pulleys that are “springy” in the torque direction, yet have a lower effective spring constant (e.g., are less stiff) over a greater angular range. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys use a low cost and simple torque transfer geometry. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys afford significant overrun. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys are radially small in an overall envelope, in order to allow the alternator to reach its highest possible rotational speed, and thus output, during engine idle. Further, in at least some embodiments, the inventive pulleys are more durable, as they offer the aforementioned dynamics in both directions (torque and counter-torque).
US08715117B1	Ball retrieval sports racket A ball retrieval sports racket. The ball retrieval sports racket includes a racket with a handle and a head portion. The ball retrieval sports racket further includes a ball retrieval attachment and protective cover for both the head portion of the racket and the handle portion of the racket.
US08715116B2	Collapsible, portable sport goal This disclosure primarily concerns sports goals. In an aspect, some of these sports goals are collapsible and/or portable. In some novel configurations, a sports goal might be collapsible into an easily carried configuration without any need to remove the net of the goal. In another configuration, a sports goal might have members that attach using a novel attachment mechanism that requires much less effort and frustration than conventional attachments. In yet another configuration, a sports goal might have a net that is secured to the goal frame with a novel reinforcement system that prevents the net from tearing away from the goal frame when struck with a high-velocity ball or puck.
US08715114B2	Dimpled golf ball and dimple distributing method A golf ball having a plurality of dimples on its surface based on a dimple pattern determined by circle packing theory. In particular, the dimple pattern is determined by arranging a plurality of circles on a Riemann surface where each circle is not tangent to any other circle in more than one place.
US08715111B2	Multi-layer core golf ball The present invention is directed to an improved golf ball displaying the desired spin profile and having a generally rigid, thermoset polybutadiene outer core surrounding a relatively soft, low compression inner core. In general, this golf ball has an inner core and at least one outer core layer surrounding the inner core. The inner core has a hardness less than a hardness of the outer core and a specific gravity less than or equal to the outer core specific gravity. Overall the inner core compression and outer core are formulated to provide a combined overall core compression of greater than about 50, preferably greater than about 70. A cover layer is provided to surround and to cover the outer core layer.
US08715102B1	Adjustable golf club shaft and hosel assembly An adjustable shaft and hosel assembly allows for dependent and independent adjustment of a golf club's face angle, loft angle, and lie angle. The adjustable shaft and hosel assembly comprises a shaft sleeve, a hosel portion, and a ball joint, wherein the ball joint is located either on the shaft sleeve or the hosel portion and fits within, and is rotatable along various axes within, a socket.
US08715099B2	Backswing training device A golf backswing training device. The device includes a first elongate portion defining a first major axis. A second elongate portion slideably engageable with the first elongate portion is included, the second elongate portion defining a second major axis, a first end, and a second end. A club alignment element coupled to the first end of the second elongate portion is included, the club alignment element having a first club contact surface disposed at an acute angle with respect to the second major axis.
US08715097B2	Golf club head A golf club head is provided and includes a club head body, a club head face connected to a front portion of the club head body, wherein the club head face includes a club face surface having a plurality of face cavities arranged across the club face surface and a plurality of protrusion posts, wherein each of the plurality of protrusion posts includes a post body having a post base and a post head, wherein the plurality of protrusion posts is associated with the club face to extend away from the club face surface such that the post base of each of the plurality posts is located in separate cavities of the plurality of face cavities.
US08715095B2	Outdoor playground with shading apparatus An outdoor playground includes a first and a second entertainment units connected with each other. The first entertainment unit includes a first utility frame configured to allow a predetermine entertainment function to be carried out by the first utility frame and a first shading apparatus detachably mounted on the first utility frame for effectively shielding the first utility frame. The second entertainment unit includes a second utility frame configured to allow a predetermine entertainment function to be carried out by the second utility frame, and a second shading apparatus detachably mounted on the second utility frame for effectively shielding the second utility frame so as to allow the entertainment function to be carried out under shading.
US08715094B2	Hollow transmission shaft The present disclosure provides a hollow drive shaft which may include a hollow steel pipe, a mandrel set at the center of the hollow steel pipe in an axially direction, and a spiral rib plate set between the hollow steel pipe and the mandrel. The major diameter end surface of the spiral rib plate is spirally welded on the inner diameter surface of the wall of the hollow steel pipe. The minor diameter end surface of the spiral rib plate is welded on the outer diameter surface of the mandrel. The helix angle of the spiral rib plate is 10 to 45 degrees. The helical direction of the spiral rib plate is opposite to the delivery direction of a working torque M.
US08715091B1	Server device, and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing game program A server device connected with a player terminal used by a player when performing a game operation over a network includes: a rental unit; a providing unit; a storage unit configured to store player information in which the rental game content rented from the rental unit is set as game content temporarily possessed by the player, and the game content provided by the providing unit is set as game content possessed by the player; a parameter varying unit; a game content determination unit; a parameter setting unit configured to set a parameter of the game content based on a parameter of the rental game content varied by the parameter varying unit; a condition determination unit configured to determine whether a return condition of the rental game content is satisfied; and an update unit configured to update the player information stored in the storage unit.
US08715085B2	Perceived skill gaming machine and method A gaming system having a plurality of primary game devices sharing a secondary bonus station is disclosed. The secondary game station comprises a secondary game which is configured to provide play pursuant to a triggering event originating from any one of the primary game devices in the gaming environment. The secondary game station is equipped with controls suitable for playing the secondary game. During play of the secondary game station, the triggering primary game device may also be “locked” so that the player may resume playing the primary game subsequent to playing the secondary game.
US08715083B2	Methods and systems for processing gaming data Methods and systems for content processing are described. In one embodiment, gaming data is received from a gaming source server. The gaming data associated with a game. A content signal is received from a signal source during presentation of programming content. The programming content is associated with the content signal and the game. A determination of whether the content signal includes the trigger is made. The device content is presented using the gaming data. The device content is in synchronization with the presentation of the programming content based on a determination that the content signal includes a trigger. Additional methods and systems are disclosed.
US08715082B2	Systems, methods and computer products for IPTV network game control Systems and methods for IPTV network game control. Exemplary embodiments include a game system, including a communications device, a game controller functionally coupled to the communications device and a process for establishing communication between the communications device and the game controller for manipulating game content, the process including instructions to receive game content from a network, the content being displayed on the communications device and interactively controlled by the game controller via communication with the communications device.
US08715074B2	Game apparatus, information processing apparatus, storage medium having game program or information processing program stored therein, game system, delay measurement system, image display method, audio output method, and delay measurement method An example game apparatus generates and outputs a predetermined test image to a television. A terminal device has its image pickup section acquire a pickup image of a screen of the television, and transmits the pickup image acquired by the image pickup section to the game apparatus. The game apparatus determines whether or not the pickup image includes the test image. When the pickup image is determined to include the test image, an image delay time is calculated on the basis of the time of the determination, the time of the output of the test image by the game apparatus, and a processing time between the acquisition of the pickup image and the determination. The game apparatus uses the image delay time to achieve synchronization between the terminal device and the television and also between image display and sound output of the television.
US08715063B2	Method and apparatus for a wagering game having a secondary game for modifying a primary game A wagering game having a primary game and a secondary game. In one embodiment, an intermediate game outcome for the primary game is first determined. The intermediate game outcome provides the player with an indication of the probability of receiving a winning primary game outcome. The player may then use this indication for determining whether to play the secondary game. The optional secondary game, if won, modifies the play of the primary game to the advantage of the player. Consequently, the intermediate game outcome is resolved to determine the primary game outcome in accordance with the modified primary game. If the secondary game outcome is lost, the immediate game outcome is resolved to determine the primary game outcome without modifying the primary game.
US08715062B2	Method and article of manufacture for making lottery selections Methods for generating a group of numbers usable for selections in a lottery are described. A user interface to a lottery selection method is also disclosed.
US08715061B1	Multi-player electronic gaming system allowing players to play individual games or community game A large touch screen gaming table is disclosed that may accommodate, for example, four players. Each player creates a bank of credits at the table and plays a community game independently of other players. In one game, various icons are continuously displayed, and the icons display various wager amounts. Any player may simultaneous touch an icon of any wager and touch a player-active button, and the selected icon reveals a hidden prize credited to that player. In one embodiment, the game is continuous in that the icons are replenished after being selected. The players may play at any speed and in any order. The wagers may be very small and the prizes are generally also small to encourage rapid play. Any player(s) that does not wish to participate in the community game may control the screen to display a variety of individual games on a screen segment.
US08715059B2	Gaming machine arranging two symbol columns in the same order A display unit displays symbols in a plurality of columns, and in particular arranges the symbols in the same order in two or more of the columns. A game controller unit determines an arrangement of symbols at random on a condition that symbols are arranged in the same order and at the same positions in the two or more columns. A display controller unit causes the display unit to spin the two or more columns of symbols from the same position in synchronization with each other, and stop the two or more columns at the same position to display the arrangement of symbols determined by the game controller unit.
US08715055B2	Wagering game with multiple viewpoint display feature A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes an input device for receiving a wager to play a wagering game. The gaming system further includes at least one display for displaying a plurality of game elements. The at least one display is adapted to display a first three-dimensional view of the plurality of game elements from a first viewpoint and a second three-dimensional view of at least one of the plurality of game elements indicating a randomly-selected outcome from a second viewpoint. The first three-dimensional view and the second three-dimensional view are rendered in real-time.
US08715050B1	Interactive electronic gaming with matched-tournament game play An gaming system comprises a game server with which client systems can interact, wherein users play interactive games based on the users' team associations, wherein virtual matches between teams are determined, at least in part, by real-world league schedules, and wherein the gaming system presents game results by team for a league where the virtual match results for various teams in the league are determined by results of individual games played between users representing those teams while playing the games. Individual users for individual games can be associated with teams of their choice, assigned teams or assigned to teams that rival other teams that the users' preferred team is a rival of. The client systems can be computers, handheld devices, gaming consoles, or the like. The client systems can include local game code or could connect to a game server to obtain that functionality. In some implementations, the game is locally played without an intervening network. Using such a gaming system, community-based, aggregate-result driven tournaments can be organized.
US08715049B2	Game device, method of controlling a game device, and information storage medium A first selecting section selects any one of a plurality of movement control information items. Relationship information between a first game character and a second game character in possess ion of a moving object is acquired. A second selecting section selects any one of the plurality of movement control information items based on a selection result obtained by the first selecting section and the relationship information. The first game character moves based on the movement control information selected by one of the first and second selecting sections. The second game character performs an action for moving the moving object toward a target position based on the movement control information selected by another one of the first and second selecting sections.
US08715046B2	Ductless fumehood system A ductless fumehood system comprising: at least one ductless fumehood comprising a housing; a workspace formed within the housing; a door for selectively closing off the workspace; an air inlet for introducing air into the workspace; a master module for receiving air from the workspace, purging unwanted substances from that air, and then exhausting that filtered air to the ambient room atmosphere; and a slave module for receiving air from the workspace, purging unwanted substances from that air, and then exhausting that filtered air to the ambient room atmosphere; wherein the slave module is in communication with the master module such that the master module central processing unit is capable of (i) controlling the operation of the active elements of the slave module, (ii) detecting a function failure of the slave module, and (iii) activating the master module alarm in the event of a failure within that slave module.
US08715045B2	Fish filleting machine A machine has stations for continuous fish filleting. Decapitated gutted fish are placed with backs upwards and fronts foremost. A first station engages the fish and centers the fish relative to a vertical plane. Lower sides of the fish are arranged on opposite sides of the plane. A second station detects and registers vertical extents of lower edges and backs of the fish. A third station fixates backs of the fish and cuts slits in the backs. The slits extend at least along either side of protruding back fins. A fourth station has articulated cutters arranged on either side of the vertical plane for trimming parts of lowermost sides and edges of the fish. A fifth station has upper cutters positioned along the vertical plane for cutting meat free from vertebrae. A sixth station cuts vertically on either side of the vertebrae. A seventh station directs fillets outward.
US08715036B2	Grinding center and method for the simultaneous grinding of multiple crankshaft bearings The invention relates to a grinding center for the simultaneous grinding of multiple main bearings and rod bearings and/or central sections of crankshafts (22). Two rod bearing grinding spindles (14, 15), wherein the first can be displaced only in the Z direction and the second can be minimally displaced only in the X direction, are mounted on a common rod bearing crosslide (11). In the final phase of the grinding, a correction of dimension deviation between the two machined rod bearings is carried out via a separate control of the second rod bearing grinding spindle (15), as a dimension or roundness correction. The deviations are detected by measuring devices.
US08715034B1	Smart driving system in toy vehicle A toy car and a remote control regulate the speed and movement of the car. A source of power energizes the drive motor thereby to change the vehicle speed and stopping. One or more sensors measure the speed and environment barriers relative to the vehicle. The drive motor speed can be increased decreased or stopped. The toy vehicle with a battery operates as a rechargeable system. A station on a track has an outlet on or in adjacency with a surface on which the remotely controllable toy is movable to and from electrical outlet contacts. The remote controlled toy has inlet contacts for electrically engaging the outlet contacts. The station is part of a track and the toy vehicle is normally directed to travel on the track and to a station.
US08715032B2	Spinner for toy top A spinner for a toy top enables a launching position of a toy top to be easily set and held in place even when a rack belt is vigorously pulled out. The spinner includes an elongated rack belt having a rack gear, and a spinner main body formed with an insertion hole through which the rack belt is inserted. The spinner main body includes a toy top mounting part rotatably provided on one surface thereof. Inside the spinner main body, a rotating mechanism that is actuated by pulling out the rack belt to impart a rotational force to the toy top mounting part is provided. The rack belt can be inserted into and pulled out from the insertion hole in a same direction as an axis of rotation of the toy top mounting part.
US08715026B2	Method for disassembling plasma display device The present disclosure relates to a method for disassembling a plasma display device including PDP (11) having front plate (20) and rear plate (21), metal support plate (14) bonded to rear plate (21) of PDP (11) with bonding member (16) interposed therebetween, and circuit board (15) attached to metal support plate (14). The method includes performing irradiation with infrared rays from a side of front plate (20) constituting PDP (11) while air is sent to circuit board (15) attached to metal support plate (14) to heat bonding member (16) between PDP (11) and metal support plate (14) so as to decrease bonding strength, and then separating PDP (11) from metal support plate (14).
US08715022B2	Marine vessel transmission Marine vessel transmission with an input drive shaft which extends along an input drive shaft axis and is designed to be connected to a marine engine, an output drive shaft which is designed to provide a torque to a propeller and has a gear reduction for the input drive shaft, a housing which partially surrounds the input drive shaft and the output drive shaft, a secondary output drive shaft having a torque introduction journal that protrudes from the housing and on which a secondary output drive gearwheel is arranged, which is located in the torque path behind the input drive shaft, and an electric generator which features a rotor which is interlocked with the torque introduction journal, whereby the rotor runs coaxially to the secondary output drive shaft and is borne mechanically determined onto the torque introduction journal.
US08715019B2	Connector An electrical connection device comprises a first connector and a second connector which are mated with each other. The first connector comprises a first insulative housing and a first terminal group. Two terminals of the first terminal group are first protruding terminals, and one other terminal of the first terminal group is a first non-protruding terminal. The second connector comprises a second insulative housing and a second terminal group. At least one terminal of the second terminal group is second protruding terminal and two other terminals of the second terminal group are second non-protruding terminals so that the number of the second protruding terminal is less than the number of the first protruding terminals. The second protruding terminal mates with one of the first protruding terminals and one of the first protruding terminals mates with a second non-protruding terminal.
US08715016B2	Electrical connector with signal and power connections An electrical connector includes a connector housing having at least one contact cavity and an interchange port. A power contact is held by the connector housing within the contact cavity. The power contact is configured to conduct electrical power. An interchangeable signal module is separably mounted to the connector housing such that at least a portion of the signal module is held within the interchange port of the connector housing. The signal module includes an insulator holding a signal contact that is configured to conduct electrical data signals.
US08715015B2	Structure for a spring contact A spring contact, including: an upper contact pin having a contact portion, a head, a neck, a body and two spring holding protrusions; a lower contact pin having a construction that is the same as or similar to that of the upper contact pin and being coupled to the upper contact pin while crossing at right angles; and a spring fitted over an assembly of the upper and lower contact pins, wherein to increase the strength of the upper contact pin and increase the surface area of the contact portion, the head forms a cylindrical or square column shape or a part of the contact pin within the range from the contact portion to the spring holding protrusions has a thickness greater than the thickness of the body, thereby increasing the strength of the upper contact pin and increasing the surface area of the contact portion.
US08715014B2	Connector unit and display device having the same A connector unit is connectable to a printed circuit board (“PCB”) and includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a first connector body having a receiving hole at one side, and a first terminal part disposed inside the receiving hole. The second connector includes a second connector body, and first and second fixing protrusions. The second connector body has a second terminal part formed at a first side. The second terminal part is inserted in the receiving hole, and is electrically connected to the first terminal part. First and second fixing protrusions are disposed at top and bottom surfaces of the second connector body, and are fixed to upper and lower edges of the receiving hole.
US08715012B2	Managed electrical connectivity systems A receptacle block defines one or more sockets at which plugs may be received. Each socket contains a first set of contacts and a second set of contacts. Each socket also includes a sensing contact that interacts with the second set of contacts to close an electrical switch. For example, the sensing contact can interact with an arm extending from one of the contacts of the second set. Closure of the switch can be detected and interpreted to indicate that a plug has been received at the respective socket.
US08715009B2	Edge connector An edge connector for transmitting signals at a high frequency, for example in a system environment with a frequency higher than 2.0 GHz or 3.0 GHz, is provided. The connector includes a housing and at least a first and a second conductors disposed in the housing. Each conductor has a contact portion and a terminal portion, and each contact portion form a contact surface. The at least first and second conductors are disposed in the housing in such a manner that, both the contact surfaces face a first direction, the terminal portion of the first conductor is offset from the contact portion of the first conductor along the first direction, and the terminal portion of the second conductor is offset from the contact portion of the second conductor along a second direction which is opposite to the first direction.
US08715005B2	High speed high density connector assembly A high speed connector assembly includes a header and a receptacle. The header includes an array of first contacts arranged in lines and columns, each line of first contacts being grouped in pairs, each of the first contacts having a contacting portion and a number of first shields arranged besides corresponding lines of the first contacts, each of the first shields having a contacting portion. The receptacle has a main body. The main body defines a front face and a number of receiving holes in the front face. The contact portions of each pair of the first contacts and corresponding first shield are received in the same one of the receiving holes when the header and the receptacle are mated.
US08715004B2	Backplane connector with reduced circuit board overhang A right-angle electrical connector is configured to be mounted onto an upper mounting surface of a substrate that defines a bottom surface opposed from the upper mounting surface so as to define a thickness. The connector includes a connector housing and a plurality of electrical contacts retained by the connector housing. The connector housing overhangs an edge of the substrate and extends down with respect to the upper surface to a depth from the upper mounting surface that is less than the thickness of the substrate.
US08714994B2	Modular plug for power applications A modular plug includes a plug housing having a mating end and a cable end and plug contacts at the mating end. The plug housing and the plug contacts are shaped and positioned to define an RJ-45 modular plug mating interface. The plug contacts are arranged into a first group and a second group with each of the plug contacts in the first group being electrically commoned to form a first power circuit and each of the plug contacts in the second group being electrically commoned to form a second power circuit. The first and second power circuits are terminated to different wires of a cable.
US08714989B2	Modular wiring system A modular wiring system includes a junction box having a plurality of ports and a programmable wiring board carrying electrically conductive elements. A plurality of cable receiving connectors are each insertable into a corresponding one of the plurality of ports of the junction box and each provides electrical coupling between wires of a cable and the electrically conductive elements of the programmable wiring board. At least one electrical device receiving connector is coupled to the programmable wiring board. The at least one electrical device receiving connector releasably receives an electrical device and provides electrical coupling between the electrical device and the electrically conductive elements of the programmable wiring board.
US08714987B2	Systems and methods for computerized interactive training Interactive electronic training systems and methods are described herein. Certain embodiments provide preprogrammed video, audio, and/or textual presentations of training materials which provide information related to skills/information to be trained. A scenario including real or animated actors is presented, simulating an interaction. The training system presents related queries for the trainee who audibly responds. The training system stores a score based in part on a comparison of the trainee's response with an answer stored in training system memory. Optionally, the scores are substantially immediately presented by the system to the trainee.
US08714984B2	Injection simulator Injection training devices comprising elements for repeatable and accurate simulation of parenteral injection for training individuals in the administration of one or more medications are provided.
US08714983B2	Multi-player role-playing lifestyle-rewarded health game Embodiments of the invention provide apparatuses, computer media, and methods for supporting lifestyle-reward health games, in which execution is altered based on health behavior of the participant. Input data indicative of the health behavior is obtained and converted into a gaming parameter. The gaming parameter is applied to the lifestyle-reward health game in order to alter the execution of the lifestyle-reward health game. A reward parameter for the participant may be determined based on a utility function, and the reward parameter is invoked when the participant is playing the life-reward health game. Feedback to the participant may be incorporated during the execution of the lifestyle-reward health game, where the feedback is indicative of the participant's health behavior. An avatar may be depicted during execution of the lifestyle-reward health game to illustrate a predicted health condition, in which the depiction is altered by changing the timeframe of the predicted health condition.
US08714977B2	Condensing skeletal implant that facilitate insertions A dental implant that facilitates insertion includes a body having a coronal end and an apical end opposite the coronal end. An implant-prosthetic interface region is provided adjacent the coronal end. A tapered region is adjacent the apical end. A variable profile helical thread extends along the tapered region. The thread becomes broader in the apical-coronal direction and higher in the coronal-apical direction. The threads include an apical side, a coronal side and a lateral edge connecting them. The variable profile thread includes an expanding length of the lateral edge while the distance of the lateral edge from the base is reduced in the direction of the coronal end. The implant also has a gradual compressing tapered core, a self drilling apical end with a spiral tap, and a coronal end with and inverse tapering.
US08714976B2	Fatigue-resistant Nitinol instrument A fatigue-resistant Nitinol instrument has a working portion in the deformed monoclinic martensitic state and an austenite finish temperature in the range of 40° to 60° C. Because the operating environment of the instrument is about 37° C., the working portion remains in the monoclinic martensitic state during its use. The relatively high austenite finish temperature and fatigue resistance is achieved by subjecting the nickel-titanium alloy to a final thermal heat treat in a temperature range of about 410° to 440° C. while the nickel-titanium alloy is under constant strain of about 3 to 15 kg. Further, the high austenite finish temperature is achieved without subjecting the alloy to thermal cycling to produce shape memory. Additionally, there are no intermediate processing steps occurring between obtaining a finished diameter of the wire or blank through cold working and the final thermal heat treat under constant strain.
US08714973B2	Interactive/passive bracket system Interactive/passive bracket system developed to provide orthodontic treatment in a more comfortable, efficient and faster manner. Its function with the orthodontic wire may be determined by an orthodontist in order to make it interactive or only passive. It is something innovative because no bracket system can provide these two features in the same bracket. The presence of two convertible slots which is also a significant differential feature will simplify the tooth movement in the class I, II and Angle III relations. Besides, the rounded design makes the Revolution systems more comfortable and traps less food, thus facilitating brushing.
US08714970B2	Combustion control system A combustion control system, including a first set of sensors for generating sample data including data representing a sequence of detected images of different samples of a fuel made up of solid particles; a fuel analysis module for controlling a processor of a computing device to: (i) determine attributes for one or more predetermined physical characteristics of the particles in each said sample based on the sample data, and (ii) generate an index value for each said sample based on said attributes, said index value representing a level of combustibility of the particles in each said sample; and a combustion control module for controlling a processor of a computing device to adjust one or more parameters for controlling a combustion process based on changes to said index value over time.
US08714969B2	Staged combustion method with optimized injection of primary oxidant The invention relates to a fuel combustion method in which one jet of fuel and at least two jets of oxidant are injected. According to the invention, the first jet of oxidant, known as the primary oxidant jet, is injected such as to be in contact with the jet of fuel and to produce a first incomplete combustion, the gases produced by said first combustion comprising at least one part of the fuel, and the second jet of oxidant is injected at a distance from the jet of fuel such as to combust with the part of the fuel present in the gases produced by the first combustion. Moreover, the primary oxidant jet is divided into two primary jets, namely: a first primary oxidant jet, known as the central jet, which is injected at the centre of the jet of fuel; and a second primary oxidant jet, knows as the sheathing jet, which is injected coaxially around the fuel jet.
US08714965B2	Injection nozzle with enhanced heat transfer characteristics An injection nozzle that can be used in an injection blow molding system without use of an external heat source comprises a two-piece structure broadly including a structural outer body for coupling the nozzle to a resin manifold and a thermally conductive insert. At least a portion of an axial length of the insert has an outer diameter that is less than an inner diameter of a coinciding coaxial portion of the outer body, such that the differences in the inner and outer diameters present an insulating air gap along at least a portion of the nozzle length. A sufficient operating temperature for hot melt resin can then be obtained without use of the external heat source.
US08714964B2	Blow nozzle to control liquid flow with pre-stretch rod assembly An apparatus for forming a container comprising a housing and a rod apparatus disposed in the housing. The rod apparatus includes a rod for at least partially forming a container preform. The apparatus further includes a nozzle system disposed in the housing that is operably coupled with the rod apparatus. The nozzle system is positionable between a first position preventing pressurized fluid from being injected into the container preform and a second position permitting pressurized fluid to be injected into the container preform.
US08714961B2	Press system for forming a composite article A press with a pressure chamber and a lid. The chamber is filled with a substantially incompressible medium and the medium at least partially encloses an elastomeric pressure vessel. The vessel is filled with a substantially incompressible fluid that is in fluid communication with a pressurized source of the fluid.
US08714960B2	Fibre cutting device and method A fiber cutting device and method for cutting one or more exposed portions of a through-thickness fiber in a surface of a composite material, the device including: a cutting element for cutting the one or more exposed portions; a suction device which is operable to extract the cut exposed portions from the surface of the composite material; and a storage device for receiving the cut exposed portions.
US08714955B2	Configuration for moulding a blend made of metal powder around a ceramic core A configuration for molding of a blend of metal powder around a core, which includes a mold delimiting a cavity, and which includes an elastically deformable portion on which the core is pressed, so as to adapt dimensions of the cavity to dimensions of the core. The elastically deformable portion includes an elastically deformable metal blade on one face of which the core is pressed directly.
US08714951B2	Fluid energy transfer device A rotary chambered fluid energy-transfer device includes a housing with a central portion having a bore formed therein and an end plate forming an arcuate inlet passage, with a radial height and a circumferential extent. The device also includes an outer rotor rotatable in the central portion bore with a female gear profile formed in a radial portion defining a plurality of roots and an inner rotor with a male gear profile defining a plurality of lobes in operative engagement with the outer rotor. A minimum radial distance between an outer rotor root and a corresponding inner rotor lobe define a duct end face proximate the end plate, wherein the duct end face has a radial height substantially equivalent to the inlet passage radial height at a leading edge of the inlet passage.
US08714948B2	Permanent magnet motor, hermetic compressor, and fan motor An object is to provide a permanent magnet motor that highly reduces torque fluctuation, thereby reducing noise and vibration. The permanent magnet motor may be formed as follows: a length D of a permanent magnet 8 in a longitudinal direction is the same as or longer than a width A between sides of the magnetic pole tooth 3 in the circumferential direction in an end portion of the magnetic pole tooth 3, and a distance C between tip portions of a pair of the first slits 13a and 13b within the same pole is smaller than the width A between the sides of the magnetic pole tooth 3 in the circumferential direction in the end portion of the magnetic pole tooth 3. The permanent magnet motor, thus formed, may be characterized in that cut surfaces 12 face the first slits 13a and 13b.
US08714946B2	Linear compressor with an electro-magnetic spring A linear compressor is provided. The linear compressor includes an electro-magnetic spring and a casing that defines a chamber. A piston is received within the chamber of the casing. The electro-magnetic spring can apply a non-linear force to the piston such that a total spring force applied to the piston during a compression stroke is substantially linear.
US08714945B2	Ultra-low friction air pump for creating oscillatory or pulsed jets An air pump positioned within a hollow space in an aerodynamic structure for controlling the flow over an aerodynamic surface thereof, includes a movable member linearly displaced by a very low friction piston mechanism and a compression chamber open to the exterior of the aerodynamic surface through an orifice. Reciprocal displacement of the very low friction movable member changes the volume of the compression chamber to alternately expel fluid (e.g., air) from and pull fluid into the compression chamber through the orifice. The movable member includes a piston oscillating within a piston housing each having an ultra-low friction coating for improved thermal performance and reduced maintenance. Fluid intake to the compression chamber may be increased through the use of a one-way valve located either in the aerodynamic surface, or in the piston. Multiple flapper valves may surround the orifice in the aerodynamic surface for increased fluid control.
US08714944B2	Diaphragm pump with a crinkle diaphragm of improved efficiency A pump having an undulating diaphragm mounted for undulating between two end plates under drive from at least one electromagnetic actuator in order to transfer a fluid between an inlet of the pump and an outlet of the pump. The pump includes adapter means connecting the diaphragm support to a movable portion of the actuator in order to shorten the stroke of the movable mass of the actuator such that its stroke is shorter than the stroke of the diaphragm support.
US08714942B2	Dual power input fluid pump A fluid pumping system for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine includes a housing, an electric motor, a controller to control the speed of the electric motor, a planetary gearset including a first member adapted to be driven by the internal combustion engine, a second member driven by the electric motor and a third member. A pump is driven by the third member of the planetary gearset. The housing contains the electric motor, the pump and the controller.
US08714935B2	Method of running a down hole rotary pump A method of running a down hole rotary pump using a top drive, sucker rod or any drive shaft from surface. A first step involves providing a gear box having an input end and an output end. The gear box is being capable of receiving an input of a first speed at the input end and producing an output of a second speed which is one of either faster or slower than of the first speed at the output end. A second step involves positioning the gear box down hole with the input end coupled to a remote lower end of a sucker rod and the output end coupled to a rotary activated pump. A third step involves applying a driving force to the sucker rod to rotate the sucker rod at the first speed, with the rotational force being transmitted to the rotary activated pump through the gear box which rotates the rotary activated pump at the second speed.
US08714934B2	Circulation pump, heating system and method of determining the flow rate of a liquid through a pipe A circulation pump for a conveyed liquid is provided. The circulation pump has an electric motor, which is electronically commutated, has a rotor, a stator and a motor circuit. An impeller is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the rotor. The electric motor has an evaluation device for determining a flow rate of conveyed liquid through the circulation pump from a rotational speed of the rotor and/or a power consumption of the electric motor. At least one signal output is provided, by which a flow rate signal and/or flow rate-dependent switching signal can be supplied by the circulation pump.
US08714933B2	Water supply apparatus A water supply apparatus is capable of performing a backup operation, without lowering water supply capability, when a failure has occurred in one control substrate due to surge or noise caused by lightning or sensor wear, by switching to the other control substrate, and capable of reliably performing the backup operation. The water supply apparatus includes: a plurality of pumps; a plurality of inverters each configured to change and control a rotational frequency of a corresponding one of the plurality of pumps; and a plurality of control substrates configured to control the plurality of inverters. When an abnormality occurs in one control substrate, other control substrate backs up the one control substrate to thereby allow the water supply apparatus to continue its operations. The one control substrate, the plurality of inverters, and the other control substrate are connected in series by communication lines.
US08714931B2	Turbine bucket airfoil profile The present application provides a turbine bucket including an airfoil shape. The airfoil shape may have a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 1. The Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z are non-dimensional values from 0% to 100% convertible to dimensional distances in inches by multiplying the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z by a height of the airfoil in inches. The X and Y values are distances in inches which, when connected by smooth continuing arcs, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z. The airfoil profile sections at Z distances may be joined smoothly with one another to form a complete airfoil shape.
US08714928B2	Rotor assembly for a wind turbine and method of assembling the same A rotor assembly is provided that includes a hub rotatable about an axis of rotation. The assembly also includes a plurality of rotor blades spaced circumferentially about the hub. Each of said rotor blades extends from a blade root to a blade tip such that said plurality of blades are rotatable through a plane of rotation extending about said axis of rotation, said plane of rotation is defined as substantially perpendicular to said axis of rotation, wherein each of said blade roots is coupled to said hub, wherein each of said blade tips is offset a distance upstream from said plane of rotation.
US08714925B2	Centrifugally driven aerodynamic rotor blade brake assembly An aerodynamic brake assembly for use with an airfoil such as the blade of a wind turbine rotor comprises deployable upper and/or lower spoiler plates incorporated in or attached to the airfoil. The spoiler plates can deploy under the influence of centrifugal forces when the rotating airfoil or rotor blade reaches a pre-determined rotational speed. The aerodynamic brake assembly may be integrated within the airfoil or attached to the tip of the airfoil such that, when not deployed, the upper and lower spoiler plates have a profile that approximately conforms to the profile of the part of the airfoil to which it the brake assembly is attached. Thus in a non-deployed state, the spoiler plates have a non-detrimental effect on the performance of the airfoil, and may even contribute to its aerodynamic lift properties. A weighted arm linked to the spoiler plate mechanism can be held in position electromagnetically or by solenoid, until an electrical signal from a controller causes it to release, leading to deployment of the spoiler plates. Failsafe deployment of the spoiler plates can occur either upon loss of power to the mechanism, or when the centrifugal force associated with an overspeed condition of the rotor overcomes the holding force of the electromagnet or solenoid.
US08714924B2	Method of reducing a structural unbalance in a wind turbine rotor and device for performing the method Disclosed is a method of reducing a structural unbalance in a wind turbine rotor with pitch control and a control device for performing. A frequency component is detected resulting from the structural unbalance in the wind turbine rotor on the basis of the rotor speed signal. The multiplying the frequency component signal is multiplied by a complex correction factor. Individual pitch angle offsets are establishing for each blade of the rotor based on the magnitude and the phase and complex correction factor. Individual pitch angle offset are added to the respective pitch angles of the blades of the rotor.
US08714923B2	Fluid turbine A shrouded fluid turbine comprises an impeller and a turbine shroud surrounding the impeller. The inlet of the turbine shroud is flared. The shroud includes alternating inward and outward curving lobe segments along a trailing edge of the turbine shroud. The inward and outward curving lobe segments have exposed lateral surfaces, or in other words do not have sidewalls joining the inward and outward curving lobe segments. This allows for both transverse mixing and radial mixing of air flow through the turbine shroud with air flow passing along the exterior of the turbine shroud.
US08714921B2	Fan shroud with modular vane sets A fan shroud with modular vane members for a cooling system. A plurality of modular vane set members are positioned around the inner surface of the fan shroud ring, each of the modular vane set members having a plurality of vane members. The modularity provides flexibility and versatility for the fan shroud and corresponding efficiencies in costs and manufacturing.
US08714916B2	Variable vane assembly for a turbine compressor A variable vane assembly for a compressor having a plurality of vanes is disclosed. The variable vane assembly may generally include a synchronizing ring and a plurality of attachment studs secured to the synchronizing ring. The variable vane assembly may also include a plurality of lever arms, with each lever arm having a first end and a second end. The first end of each lever arm may be attached to one of the vanes. Additionally, a plurality of rotational attachment devices may be configured to rotatably couple the second end of each lever arm to one of the attachment studs so as to define a rotational interface therebetween. Further, each of the attachments studs may be rigidly attached to one of the rotational attachment devices at the rotational interface such that there is substantially no relative radial and circumferential sliding motion between the synchronizing ring and the plurality of lever arms during rotation of the synchronizing ring.
US08714915B2	Solid particle diversion in an axial flow steam turbine An exemplary axial flow steam turbine is disclosed which includes a motor, a turbine casing and at least first and second turbine stages, with the second turbine stage being located adjacent to and downstream from the first turbine stage. A radially outer static diaphragm ring of the second turbine stage includes an annular axial extension extending in an upstream axial direction and carrying a circumferential tip sealing device which cooperates with shrouds of a circumferential row of moving blades of the first turbine stage. An upstream end of the annular axial extension is axially spaced from a radially outer static diaphragm ring of the first turbine stage such that a circumferential passage is defined between the upstream end of the annular axial extension and the radially outer static diaphragm ring of the first turbine stage. Solid particles are diverted from steam flow by a circumferential passage during operation.
US08714914B2	Molten metal pump filter The invention relates to filtering molten metal and more particularly, to a pump, pump base and filter for filtering molten metal, wherein the filter is preferably comprised of a ceramic foam material. The ceramic foam material may be buoyant in molten aluminum. In one embodiment, a molten metal pump includes a pump base configured to receive the molten metal pump filter without using cement.
US08714908B2	Shroud leakage cover A method and system for improving performance of a compressor section of a gas turbine by diverting leakage air flowing from high pressure downstream of a stator vane assembly to low pressure upstream of the stator vane assembly from disrupting design flow patterns at a leading edge of stator vanes. A cover is provided at a forward face of an inner shroud assembly to prevent the leakage air from impinging on the leading edge. The cover may be provided at an outlet channel of a flow diverter mounted on the forward face of the inner shroud assembly.
US08714907B2	Arrangement comprising a shaft seal A shaft seal for sealing a gap between a shaft and a casing is provided. The shaft seal includes a plurality of sealing modules, at least one fluid feed and at least one fluid outlet. The sealing modules include an outer main seal, and inner main seal and a fluid drain between the two. Conventional shaft seals of the above type require significant amounts of additional barrier fluid in regular intervals to ensure suitable pressure gradients. In the presently provided shaft seal, the inner seal is designed as a radial double seal which is defined by two gas seals having respective rotating sealing surfaces and stationary sealing surfaces, the pair of sealing surfaces being opposite each other in a sealing plane. The sealing planes extend from the shaft in a substantially radial manner.
US08714905B2	Method and a device for balancing pressure in a turbojet bearing enclosure A pressure-balancing device for balancing pressure in at least one bearing enclosure of a turbojet, the enclosure including a mechanism feeding the bearing with lubricating liquid, an air intake, at least one sealing system placed between the stator and the rotor in front of and/or behind the bearing, a recovery mechanism recovering the lubricating liquid, and a removal mechanism removing the mixture of air and of traces of lubricating liquid towards a venting circuit. Downstream from the bearing enclosure and in the venting circuit, the balancing device includes a regulator system regulating the air removal flow rate, thereby enabling the flow rate to be variable as a function of the speed of the engine, to remain non-zero, and, at high speeds, to be lower than when the regulator system is not included.
US08714903B2	Robot A robot includes a base, a movable platform, a shaft rotatably connecting the movable platform and the base, three kinematic chains rotatably connecting the movable platform and the base, an end effector defining an air orifice, and a rotary member. The rotary member is rotatably connected to the movable platform, and two opposite ends of the rotary member are connected to the shaft and the end effector, respectively. The movable platform defines an air hole, and the rotary member defines an airflow passage communicating between the air hole and the air orifice.
US08714901B2	Garbage can lifter A garbage can lifter having a pair of arms operatively connected to a handle, and a pair of pins secured to exterior surfaces of the pair of arms. The pair of arms is adapted to be operatively connected to one or more lifting arms of a tractor. The garbage can lifter also has a cross member secured to the pair of arms and the handle. The handle is positioned between the pair of arms and between interior surfaces of the pair of arms.
US08714899B2	Apparatus on a coal-charging larry cart for lifting a lid and cleaning a charging hole A coal-charging larry cart for lifting lids out of charging holes in the roof of a coke oven and for cleaning the charging-hole jambs has a lid lifter with a lift magnet and a jamb cleaner with a cleaning head. Respective travel frames are horizontally movable on rails on the cart in a first horizontal direction, and respective support frames inside the respective travel frames are each movable relative to the respective travel frame in a second horizontal direction transverse to the first direction. Respective carriages horizontally displaceable in the first direction on the support frames carry the support arms for horizontal movement of each of the support arms relative to the respective support frame between an operating position in which the lift magnet or the cleaning head is aligned with a charging hole in the roof of the coke oven and a rest position spaced from the charging hole.
US08714895B2	Collapsible intermodal transport platform A collapsible intermodal transport platform and methods for its operation are disclosed. The invention comprises structural ribbings that rotate about an axle disposed beneath the loading surface of the platform. The ribbings are positioned along the platform so as to provide lifting and stacking fitments at the standard overhead crane lifting points when in a lift configuration. The ribbings may be rotated inboard down to the loading surface, thereby presenting stacking blocks at the crane lifting points for stacking several platforms together. Alternatively, the ribbings may be rotated outboard to accommodate full size loading of cargo. The ribbings are rotated under electric or hydraulic power, according to the various embodiments disclosed. Other features and aspects disclosed lend to the invention's low weight and high carrying capacity, as well as its unique load securing features.
US08714893B2	Tool holder and method for assembling the same A tool holder includes a drawing screw and a stopper member. The drawing screw is positioned in an intermediate hole. A rear end face of a head of the drawing screw faces a boundary wall surface, and a top end of a shaft of the drawing screw is screwed in a rear end of a collet. The stopper member is positioned in an annular space between an outer peripheral surface of the shaft of the drawing screw and an inner peripheral surface of the intermediate hole. The stopper member faces a front end face of the head of the drawing screw, and limits movement of the head toward a top end of the tool holder. The drawing screw and the stopper member are inserted and assembled from a top end opening of a collet holding hole.
US08714892B2	Spindle head structure rotatable in A/B axes A spindle head structure rotatable in A/B axes is provided, comprising: a spindle support, an intermediate support, a base support, an upper telescopic strut and a lower telescopic strut. The spindle support may be adapted to be fixed with a spindle. The intermediate support may be connected with the spindle support via two coaxial upper revolute pairs. The base support may be connected with the intermediate support via two coaxial lower revolute pairs. The upper telescopic strut may be connected between the spindle support and the intermediate support. And the lower telescopic strut may be connected between the intermediate support and the base support.
US08714888B2	Power tool transmission A power drill can comprise a housing having a motor that includes an output member. A rotary output spindle can be journaled in the housing. A transmission can be disposed in the housing and include a first output gear and a second output gear. The transmission can selectively couple the output member to the output spindle through one of the first output gear or the second output gear for rotating the output spindle at one of a first speed or a second speed, respectively. A speed shift assembly can include a guide plate and a user engageable member. The guide plate can selectively influence movement of the first and second output gears. The user engageable member can be movable between a first speed position and a second speed position. Movement between the first and second positions can cause the second output gear to at least partially nest into the first output gear.
US08714877B2	Apparatus and methods for underground structures and construction thereof Described herein are apparatus, systems and methods useful in forming underground vertical structures. Methods are described for constructing an underground vertical structure, comprising the steps of excavating soil to a sufficient depth to create a circular void to accommodate a plurality of segments; assembling a ring shaped structure comprising the plurality of segments; connecting the outside surface of the ring shaped structure with the soil in said circular void, thereby securing the ring shaped structure to the soil; excavating earth beneath the ring shaped structure to accommodate a second ring shaped structure; and repeating steps b-d thereby forming one or more additional ring shaped structures downward into the earth below already formed ring shaped structures until a predetermined depth is reached; thereby forming the underground vertical structure. Systems to perform the above methods are also disclosed.
US08714876B2	Gully assembly The system employs a two piece gully assembly to implement an NFT system. The system has a square-U shaped base with a flat lid that can be fastened to the base. One of the advantages of the assembly is in shipping where the bases and lids can be easily nested for transport. When compared to prior art gullies, the shipping volume of the present assembly is effectively minimized. In fact, ten gullies of the present assembly can be shipped in the same volume as a single prior art gully.
US08714874B2	Apparatus and methods for forming and using subterranean salt cavern Apparatus for solution mining and gas storage in a salt cavern formed by solution mining comprises a flow diverting conduit string is provided in fluid communication with two or more concentric conduits within the single main bore, with at least one lateral opening from an internal passageway with an outer annular passageway communicating with the surface under a single valve tree. Flow control devices, flow diverters and/or isolation conduits can be inserted into the flow diverting conduit string, enabling a dissolution zone in the salt cavern to be varied to control the shape of the cavern. Furthermore the flow diverting conduit string used to form the cavern can also be used for dewatering and gas storage.
US08714873B2	Apparatus and method for applying additives to a concrete mix The apparatus and method comprise a concrete float with a vibratory additive broadcaster assembly attached therewith. The broadcaster assembly is suspended above the plane of the finishing tool with a vibratory source attached. The broadcaster assembly is filled with an additive and the apparatus is placed on a wet, concrete surface that is to be treated and finished, by a user. Actuation of a power switch by the user activates the vibratory source resulting in the substantial broadcast of additive on to the concrete surface at the desired location(s) on the slab as determined by the user. Vibration damper devices are utilized to minimize the vibrations experienced by the float. The additive is integrated into the concrete or other wet surface by passage of the float over the surface being treated.
US08714870B2	Integrated paving system and method The present invention relates to machine for distributing and compacting paving mix on a paving surface. The machine includes a mix unloading section, an auger, a screed, a first drive arrangement, and a second drive arrangement. The auger distributes the mix on a paving surface. The screed compacts the mix on a paving surface. The first drive arrangement includes road wheels for self transport at highway speeds. The second drive arrangement includes a track assembly for jobsite transportation during a paving operation.
US08714869B1	Compactor having electronically controlled heating element A pneumatic compactor includes a frame and a compacting member rotatably coupled to the frame and configured to rotate in contact with a substrate of paving material. The compacting member is a tire. The compactor further includes a heating element located within the compacting member, a sensor thermally coupled to the heating element, and an electronic control module. The electronic control module is in communication with the heating element and the sensor and is configured to energize the heating element.
US08714867B1	Explosion mitigating cover A manhole cover assembly configured to behave as a relief valve in an explosion event, opening so that fluid, such as air or explosive gas, may vent from an underground area. The manhole cover assembly may include a manhole cover and a frame, and may be configured to limit movement of the manhole cover with respect to the frame in response to increased pressure on the manhole cover. In one embodiment, the manhole cover may include legs having angled surfaces adapted to substantially center or guide the manhole cover in the frame while the manhole cover displaces to release pressure. In another embodiment, one or more legs may be at least one of pivotable with respect to the manhole cover and slidable within the manhole cover to enable configuring the manhole cover between a restraint mode and a removal mode.
US08714862B2	Ball joint for automotive suspension A ball joint comprising: a housing having an inner cavity defined inward of a seat end, a side wall and a closure end having an opening, an edge about the opening in an assembly position extending upwardly; a ball stud having: a lower ball end with an outer convex spherical surface, a middle portion, and a connector end; a first bearing, slidably housed within the cavity, having an inner concave spherical surface; a retention plate, housed within the cavity inward of the edge about the opening, wherein the edge of the opening extends inwardly engaging an outer surface of the retention plate in a closed position; and a first disc spring disposed in a disc annular recess in at least one of: an outer surface of the first bearing; and an inner surface of the retention plate.
US08714858B2	Self-foaming shaving brush A shaving brush assembly includes a plurality of bristles, a base with a first side coupled to and supporting the plurality of bristles, a second side opposite the first side, and defining a passageway from the first side to the second side, the passageway dimensioned to receive at least a portion of a nozzle of a shaving cream container. The assembly also includes a sleeve coupled to and extending from the second side of the base, with the sleeve having an inner diameter less than an outer diameter of a standard-sized container of shaving cream.
US08714855B2	Apparatus for treating a stain in clothing A package for treating stained fabric. The package can have a backing layer having a second side and a pouch layer joined thereto to form a pouch. A fluid pervious contact substrate can be joined to a first side of the backing layer. The pouch can contain a stain treatment fluid. The package can have a first position in which first and second planar regions of the backing layer are substantially in plane with one another. The package can have a second position in which first planar region and second planar region are in a substantially angularly facing relationship. In the second position the pouch can be in fluid communication with the contact substrate. The stain treatment fluid can include a surfactant.
US08714854B2	Pencil A pencil comprising a lead, a cartridge for at least partially receiving the lead, and a protective cap having a device for shaping the lead.
US08714853B2	Dispenser The present invention relates to a dispenser for a hand treatment product. The dispenser (1) comprises an applicator (3), a hand treatment product storage reservoir (5) in fluid communication with the applicator (3), and a restraining means (7) for restraining the dispenser to a support surface, wherein, in use, when a hand is moved across the applicator (3), hand treatment product is applied to the hand.
US08714849B2	Intelligent ribbon cartridge In one embodiment, an intelligent printer ribbon cartridge includes a microcontroller that monitors sensors related to the ribbon cartridge for use in a line matrix printer. The ribbon cartridge contains an impact printing ribbon in the form of either a simple loop, a mobius loop, or a long strip of ribbon connected to two spools, with one spool at each end of the cartridge. The ribbon cartridge is able to monitor at least one motion sensor, process the information, and perform a suitable action or communicate an action or information to the printer. This allows the ribbon cartridge to adapt or instruct the printer to adapt with any new types of ribbons, ribbon cartridges, formats, etc. so that the printing may occur with virtually any type of ribbon/cartridge.
US08714846B2	Gap adjusting device and image forming apparatus A gap adjusting device includes a moving mechanism having a first member supported by a first object so as to be movable along a first axis, and capable of moving the first object in one direction and its opposite direction along a second axis intersecting the first axis according to the movement of the first member in one direction along the first axis relative to the first object, thereby adjusting a gap between the first object and a second object.
US08714844B2	Intermediate adapter, camera accessory, and exchangeable lens An intermediate adapter includes: a first mount unit having a first mount center point, at which a camera body, with twelve body connector terminals disposed near a camera body mount unit at the camera body, is mounted; a body-side connector terminal holding portion where twelve body-side connector terminals, each connected to one of the twelve body connector terminals and each including a contact area to come into contact with one of the body connector terminals, are disposed; a second mount unit having a second mount center point, at which a camera accessory is to be detachably mounted.
US08714842B2	Tripod head A tripod head comprising a resilient force adjusting mechanism which includes a rotating operation part, a cam which is coupled to the rotating operation part and slides with the rotation of the rotating operation part, and a cam follower coming into contact with cam surfaces of the cam, wherein the cam follower is supported by a counterbalancing mechanism, and the counterbalancing mechanism is configured in such a manner that the magnitude of a resilient force to be imparted on the spring is variable in accordance with a position where the cam follower comes into contact with the cam.
US08714841B2	Camera pod A camera pod for an aircraft includes a housing with a plurality of camera compartments configured to downwardly angle a camera therein and a port for the lens of a camera. A pliant member is configured to quickly and easily retain a camera in a compartment biasing the camera in the downwardly angled position and absorbing vibration. A back plate is secured to the housing sealing it.
US08714840B2	Optical module and cage An optical module includes an electromagnetic wave absorption member. The electric connection member includes a floating portion which is in a floating state spaced apart from the housing and at a position away from a mounting portion by which the electric connection member is mounted on the housing in the direction opposite to the direction that the optical module is inserted into a cage. At least a portion of the electromagnetic wave absorption member is arranged between the housing and the floating portion. The floating portion is brought into contact with an inner side of the cage so as to establish the electrical connection with the inner side of the cage when the housing is inserted into the cage.
US08714833B2	Radial cage for cylindrical roller bodies A radial cage in which roll forming is carried out in such a manner that straight side sections of all axial crossbars continue to have at least approximately a material thickness of a starting material for the radial cage, while side rings of the radial cage and axial center sections of the axial crossbars are implemented by rolling down during roll forming to each have material thicknesses that are smaller than the material thickness of the straight side sections and that reduce their centrifugal mass.
US08714829B2	Wheel bearing assembly A wheel support bearing assembly includes an outer member and an inner member, each having a raceway surface. The inner member is made up of a combination of a rotatable ring, having its outer periphery formed with a vehicle body fitting flange, and a separate member. Each of the outer member and the flanged rotatable ring has a surface region representing a thermally refined structure formed by means of martensite hardening and high temperature tempering and also has a core region representing an as-forged structure made up of ferrite and pearlite.
US08714828B2	Wheel hub assembly with dual rows of rolling elements A wheel hub assembly with two rows of rolling elements has a central axis of rotation and inner raceway and outer raceways for each row of elements, the associated inner and outer raceways being axially displaced in accordance with a respective angle of contact and along a respective load line such that the assembly is capable of accommodating combined loading. The raceways of each row of rolling elements have osculation ratios which are defined by the ratio between the radius of curvature of the raceways and the outside diameters of the rolling elements of the associated row of rolling elements. The osculation ratios of a first one of the two rows of the rolling elements are different than the osculation ratios of a second one of the two rows of the rolling elements.
US08714825B2	Plain bearing and bearing device A plain bearing for supporting a crank shaft of an internal combustion engine is provided. The plain bearing is constituted by a pair of semicylindrical members. A crush relief is formed in an inner circumferential surface of the semicylindrical member, and a main cylindrical surface is formed in a region aside from the crush relief. The crush relief includes an outwardly convex curved surface and an inwardly convex curved surface.
US08714823B2	Sliding bearing A sliding bearing 5 is composed of a pair of halved bearings 11, 12 and is provided with crush reliefs 11E, 12E in positions adjoining abutment surfaces 11B, 12B of these halved bearings. Chamfered portions 11D, 12D are formed in inward edge portions of the above-described abutment surfaces 11B, 12B, and a dust pocket 15 is formed on the middle side of the chamfered portions 11D, 12D. The relative angle α formed by the above-described crush reliefs 11E, 12E with sliding surfaces 13 in positions adjoining the crush reliefs 11E, 12E is set at 0.69° or more.
US08714821B2	Cutting tape and packaging bag with cutting tape A cutting tape includes a leading portion, a first base, a second base and a seal layer. The leading portion is welded on a sealant layer with the seal layer interposed therebetween. The first base and the second base, which are laminated on the leading portion, respectively include thin laminated portions and body portions to be welded on the sealant layer. The laminated portions are welded on the leading portion. The body portions respectively have a substantially trapezoidal cross section projecting toward the sealant layer and having an inclined surface adjacent to the leading portion.
US08714820B2	Single bar flexible bulk cargo liner Flexible apparatus for transporting bulk products within containers having liners with bottom panels, two sidewalls, and a back panel with one lateral receiving member across the back panel and having first, second, and third sheet members partially attached to the two sidewalls and the back panel for creating a first, second, and third pair of diagonal sections suspended between the two sidewalls and the back panel and for creating planar overlapping spaced apart sections of first, second, and third sheet member across the back panel for bulge control in back panel and having one support bar with securing members for positioning and securing the first, second, and third sheet members and their diagonal sections and back panel into vertical and tensioned positions to container.
US08714818B2	Real-time x-ray monitoring A medical imaging system has a radiation source, a radiation sensor, a data-collection unit, and an imaging system. The radiation source has an opening to direct a collimated radiation beam in a direction towards a patient. The radiation sensor is disposed proximate the opening and within the collimated radiation beam to measure a fluence of the collimated radiation beam. The data-collection unit is disposed to collect radiation from the collimated beam after interaction with the patient. The imaging system is in communication with the data-collection unit and configured to generate an image of a portion of the patient from the collected radiation.
US08714816B2	Temperature sensor with calibrated analog resistive output Thermometric apparatus includes at least one body-surface sensor, which is configured to be placed at a location on a body surface of a patient and generates a sensor output that varies according to a body-surface temperature at the location. Analog conversion circuitry is coupled between the at least one body-surface sensor and a connector for coupling to a patient monitor. The circuitry is configured to convert the sensor output into an output resistance across the connector that is indicative of a corrected temperature of the patient.
US08714814B2	Device for locking a timepiece movement A timepiece including a case including a middle part, which is closed on the top portion thereof by a bezel and on the bottom portion by a back cover, and a timepiece movement mounted against the middle part by a casing ring. The timepiece also includes a locking device for pressing the assembly including the timepiece movement and casing ring against the middle part when the case of the timepiece is closed.
US08714813B2	Watch winder having wireless energy transferring function A watch winder includes a housing, a power supply disposed in the housing, a transmitter coil mounted at one side of the housing and electrically connected with a circuit board of the power supply, and a receiver coil mounted at another side of the housing and electrically connected with a circuit board of the power supply. The fist coil can be actuated by the power supply to transmit a signal, and the receiver coil can be used to receive a signal and convert the signal into an electrical current that can be transmitted to the circuit board for charging the power supply. Therefore, the electrical energy of the watch winder can be wireless transmitted through a non-contact interface.
US08714808B2	Container for mixing two fluids A container for mixing two liquids and the like includes: a container; a pouring cylinder that is provided extending upwards on a top portion of the container; an upward facing step portion that is formed on the container so as to be positioned below the pouring cylinder; a cap whose inner circumferential surface is screwed onto an outer circumferential surface of the pouring cylinder; a small container that is placed on an inner side of the cap; a cuttable first sheet that forms a bottom surface of the small container; a removable cylinder that is provided at a bottom end of the cap and is interposed between the cap and the upward facing step portion, and that is removed from the cap prior to the cap being screwed down onto the pouring cylinder; and a first cutter that is provided on the container so as to face a bottom surface of the small container that is placed on the inner side of the cap, wherein the small container is made to approach the first container as a result of the cap being screwed down onto the pouring cylinder, and the first sheet is then cut by the first cutter.
US08714807B2	Beaters with a beater head having an adjustable length A beater attachable to a drive motor for rotatingly driving the beater. The beater comprises a drive shaft having a distal end adapted to be coupled to the drive motor, and a beater head. The beater further including a beater head that is releasingly coupled to the drive shaft, so as to couple the beater head to the drive shaft along different relative positions thereof.
US08714806B2	Coupling apparatus and kneading equipment having kneading apparatus and drive apparatus coupled together through the coupling apparatus An input shaft of a sealed kneading apparatus and an output shaft of a drive apparatus can be coupled together in a mutually eccentric state of both shafts and the apparatus life is prolonged.A coupling apparatus 6 for coupling between an input shaft 16 of a batch type kneading apparatus 1 and an output shaft 19 of a drive apparatus 2 for driving the kneading apparatus 1, the coupling apparatus 6 comprising a gear coupling section 5, the gear coupling section 5 being capable of coupling the input shaft 16 of the batch type kneading apparatus 1 and the output shaft 19 of the drive apparatus 2 with each other in a mutually eccentric state of both shafts, gears 24 meshing with other so as to slide relatively in the face width direction with rotation of the gear coupling section 5, and an oil bath type lubricating section 46 for lubricating the gears 24.
US08714803B2	Lighting device using light guide plate Disclosed herein is a lighting device using a light guide plate. The lighting device includes a light guide plate, and light source units. The light guide plate is configured such that the front surface thereof, through which light beams are emitted, is divided or blocked into a plurality of portions by forming light transmission preventing grooves. The light source units are configured such that the light guide plate reflects the light beams.
US08714799B2	Projection device for variety of light device A projection assembly is arranged to be added onto or built into at least one LED-unit or other light-unit of an illuminated object that has more than one LED or other light source to cause the object to be illuminated and show the object's design or appearance while also offering illumination to people. The illuminated object may include all kinds of seasonal lighting, regular light fixtures, track lights, desktop lights, and battery operated lights having more than one light-unit or LED-unit.
US08714787B2	Low bay lighting apparatus There is provided a low bay lighting apparatus secured to an elevated horizontal surface. The low bay lighting apparatus including a light fixture and a mounting bracket to which the light fixture is to be removable attached. The light fixture includes a plurality of posts disposed on opposite ends of opposing outer side surfaces of the light fixture. The mounting bracket includes a plurality of slots configured to mate respectively with the plurality of posts to removably secure the light fixture to the mounting bracket. When being serviced, the light fixture is configured to freely hang from a first set of slots.
US08714785B2	Cap, socket device, and luminaire Provided are a cap, a socket device, and a luminary which reduce the influence of noise. A lamp with the cap includes a lamp main body having engaging means mounted so as to be attachable to and detachable from a socket device; a light emitting-portion; a control device that controls the light-emitting portion; a cap member for a power source situated adjacent to one side with the engaging means interposed therebetween is disposed in a circular track of the lamp main body and connected to the control device; a cap member for signaling situated adjacent to the other side with the engaging means interposed therebetween is disposed in the circular track of the lamp main body and connected to the control device; and a thermal conductor that comes into contact with a thermal radiator when mounted on the socket device.
US08714779B2	Joint structure, components and processes An independent friction joint structure including: at least one plug part having a connection to a device, the device comprising a lamp head; at least one joint part holding the at least one plug part in place, the at least one joint part having at least one holding structure; at least one side part having the ability to generate frictional rotational resistance to keep the at least one plug part in a predetermined position; at least one electrical contact between the at least one side part and the at least one holding structure of the at least one joint part; and at least one screw to fit all the components of the independent friction joint structure together.
US08714778B2	Light-emitting diode (LED) module with light sensor configurations for optical feedback An embodiment of the disclosure includes a LED module. A substrate is provided. A light sensor is positioned in the substrate. A LED chip is attached to the substrate. The LED chip has a first side and a second side. The second side is covered by an opaque layer with an opening. The opening is substantially aligned with the light sensor. The light sensor receives a light output emitting from the LED chip through the opening.
US08714776B2	Porous and non-porous nanostructures and application thereof A method for producing a fiber membrane of nanofibers that have both smooth and porous surface features. The method includes materials processing using polymer mixes with solvents and melt polymers with additives. The method includes nanomaterial incorporation onto a fiber structure after formation of the fiber structure. The fiber structure can be a part of a nanoparticle carrier material, a nanoparticle disposal medium, a lighting medium, and a catalysis medium.
US08714774B2	Light emitting diode (LED) light fixture for a greenhouse and a greenhouse incorporating a LED light fixture A greenhouse lighting fixture includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED) base support having a plurality of spaced-apart LEDs extending along a longitudinal axis of the LED base support. An optical element is coupled with the LED base support and has optical characteristics that result in at least 50% of the light produced by the LEDs being projected sideways from the fixture in oppositely directed side zones that flank a central zone wherein light is substantially blocked from projecting below the fixture. A greenhouse is encompassed that may include one or more of the LED lighting fixtures.
US08714769B2	Light system A light system is provided. It includes a lamp in a light assembly. The light assembly is pivotally mounted to a mount device by a pivot assembly. The light assembly may be pivoted about two different axes of rotation to direct the light at an area of interest. With the light system mounted on a person, movement by the person can redirect the light beam as desired.
US08714768B2	Solar retrofit lighting system A solar retrofit lighting system for light poles with a solar array panel assembly having semi-circular backing panels attached to adjustable internal mounting brackets or pole frames suitable to any size light pole and mounted in parallel with the longitudinal axis of the light pole with thin film photovoltaic laminate adhesively attached to the outer convex sides of the backing panels. A battery for storage of electrical energy from the thin film photovoltaic laminate will be provided along with a charge controller to regulate the charging of the battery, an inverter to convert DC to AC power and an LED light fixture extending from the pole. Alternatively, an on-grid option will be utilized at the pole, to convert and send energy back to the grid and draw power from the grid as needed when sunlight is unavailable.
US08714760B2	All reflective real pupil telecentric imager A reflective optical form that has both a telecentric image and a real entrance pupil. In one example, a non-relayed optical imaging system includes a real entrance pupil configured to admit a beam of electromagnetic radiation, an image plane, and a reflective triplet including a negative primary mirror, a positive secondary mirror optically coupled to the primary mirror, a negative tertiary mirror optically coupled to the secondary mirror, the reflective triplet configured to receive the beam of electromagnetic radiation from the real entrance pupil and to focus the beam of electromagnetic radiation onto the image plane to form a telecentric image at the image plane.
US08714759B2	Mirror stabilizer arm connector assembly A connector head carried by the stabilizer arm. A first retaining sidewall and a second retaining sidewall included in the connector head extending outward from the stabilizer arm and defining a longitudinal channel. A plurality of spiked projections carried by at least one of the first and second retaining sidewalls, wherein a point of each spike is directed back towards the stabilizer arm. An elastic block carried in the longitudinal channel so that the spiked projections penetrate the elastic block to hold the elastic block in the longitudinal channel. A receiver having a retention slot cooperating with the connector head to releasably secure the stabilizer arm. A knob projecting upward from a base surface of the retention slot for engaging the elastic block in a friction fit arrangement between the connector head and the retention slot so that the stabilizer arm is releasably secured in the receiver.
US08714758B2	Light traps and panels for light traps Light traps, and panels for light traps, are shown and described. In one example, a trap comprises a plurality of panels defining waveforms for at least a portion. The waveforms may be spaced a distance D apart to define a plurality of non-linear air-passages for allowing an airflow (AF) into or out of the poultry house at a velocity (V). The waveforms may include a plurality of light deflective walls (LDWs) for increasing the light reduction factor (RFL).
US08714756B2	Projector holder and projector system having the same A holder to hold a projector includes a support. One side of the projector is capable of being attracted by a magnet. The support includes a base board and a supporting board connected to the base board. The base board is to be supported by a supporting surface. The support further includes a first magnet fixed on the supporting board to attract the side of the projector, for adjustably and magnetically supporting the projector on the supporting board.
US08714755B2	Projection lens of an imaging module and imaging module A projection lens of an imaging module and the imaging module are provided. The imaging module further has a light modulator to project a first image with a first aspect ratio. The projection lens comprises an anamorphic lens set and a projection lens set. The anamorphic lens set comprises a first cylinder lens, a second cylinder lens, a bi-convex cylinder lens and a bi-concave cylinder lens, which are set after the light modulator in sequence. The first cylinder lens has at least one flat surface, and the second cylinder lens has at least one convex surface. The anamorphic lens set projects the first image with the first aspect ratio into a second image with a second aspect ratio; the second aspect ratio is different from the first aspect ratio. The projection lens set receives and projects the second image with the second aspect ratio.
US08714746B2	Multi-projection system A multi-projection system having a plurality of projection surfaces onto which images are projected is provided, where the plurality of projection surfaces are disposed on two or more sides not parallel to each other. The multi-projection system provides high three-dimensional images and a high degree of immersion in images and further provides multi-view images, thereby making theater customers feel like they really exist in the space described through the images.
US08714740B2	Peripheral vision training and/or testing during central vision fixation Systems and methods may test and/or train the peripheral visual abilities of an individual. Peripheral visual abilities may be tested and/or trained while maintaining a central visual focus by the individual. A central display element may display central visual indicia, while a peripheral display element may display peripheral visual indicia. Each visual indicia displayed may possess one or more trait and, optionally, one or more property. Inputs may be received at a central input device and/or a peripheral input device, with inputs corresponding to the traits perceived to be possessed by displayed indicia. By determining the correspondence of received inputs to the traits possessed by corresponding indicia, the peripheral visual abilities of an individual may be tested and/or trained in accordance with the present invention.
US08714738B2	Process for making ophthalmic lenses The present invention relates to aqueous processes for the production of silicone hydrogel contact lenses.
US08714737B2	Coated print media The present disclosure is drawn to a coated print medium, a method of preparing a print medium, and a printing system. The coated print medium includes a substrate and a coating applied to the substrate at coat weight from 1 gsm to 6 gsm. The coating include, by solids, 20 wt % to 90 wt % of non-film forming polymer particulates having a particle size from 50 nm to 300 nm and a glass transition temperature greater than 85.degree. C.; 1 wt % to 25 wt % water soluble polymer binder; 0.1 wt % to 5 wt % fixing agent; and 0.1 wt % to 10 wt % slip aid.
US08714734B2	Inkjet printer An inkjet printer includes: a transfer path configured to transfer a recording medium therein: an inkjet head disposed with a gap from the transfer path, and configured to discharge ink toward the recording medium being transferred in the transfer path; a gap adjuster configured to adjust the gap; a guide disposed upstream of the inkjet head in a transfer direction of the recording medium, and configured to prevent the recording medium from being uplifted from the transfer path; and a guide mover configured to move the guide toward the inkjet head in the transfer direction in response to an increase in the gap by the gap adjuster.
US08714732B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus The invention provides a liquid ejecting apparatus which can prevent a target having liquid ejected thereon from warping irrespective of the type of the target. An ink jet printer includes a recording head configured to eject ink from a nozzle formed on a nozzle-formed surface onto a recording sheet being transported from an upstream side to a downstream side, and a plurality of supporting belts arranged so as to oppose the nozzle-formed surface and each having a supporting portion extending along the direction of transport of the recording sheet. The respective supporting belts are arranged so as to be capable of moving along the width direction intersecting the direction of transport of the recording sheet.
US08714731B2	Inkjet ink and intermediate transfer medium for inkjet printing An inkjet ink and an intermediate transfer medium for inkjet printing are disclosed herein. During inkjet printing, the inkjet ink forms ink drops having a contact angle (θ) of less than or equal to 50° on the intermediate transfer medium, where the contact angle (θ) reduces or substantially eliminates coalescence of adjacent ink drops. The contact angle (θ) may be obtained by controlling a property of the inkjet ink and/or a property of the surface of the intermediate transfer medium.
US08714730B2	Method of selective drum maintenance in a drum maintenance unit in a printing apparatus A printing process identifies conditions for operating an image receiving member to transfer a plurality of ink images from the image receiving member to a plurality of media sheets between applications of release agent to the image receiving member. The printing process transfers a first ink image from the image receiving member to a first media sheet, identifies a size of a second ink image, and forms the second ink image entirely within a portion of the surface of the image receiving member that carried the first ink image. The printing process enables printing with acceptable quality while reducing the consumption of release agent and wear on components in the printer.
US08714728B2	Inkjet recording method An inkjet recording method comprising a jetting step using a paper sheet, wherein a decay rate of ultrasonic transmittance through the paper sheet after five seconds with respect to ultrasonic transmittance through the paper sheet immediately after immersion of the paper sheet in pure water is from 4% to 26%, and jetting aqueous ultraviolet-curable ink onto a front surface of the paper sheet with an inkjet recording head; a conveyance step of conveying the paper sheet to an exposure section such that an amount of time from the jetting step until exposing the aqueous ultraviolet-curable ink on the paper sheet to ultraviolet light is from 1 second to 8 seconds; and an exposure step of exposing the aqueous ultraviolet-curable ink on the paper sheet to ultraviolet light to thereby cure the aqueous ultraviolet-curable ink.
US08714726B2	Printing apparatus, printing method, and program A printing apparatus includes a nozzle that ejects, to a medium, photo-curing ink cured when irradiated with light, and an irradiation unit that irradiates, with the light, the photo-curing ink landed on the medium. Here, when printing an image on the medium by coating with the photo-curing ink, the photo-curing ink is ejected from the nozzle so that unevenness is formed in an original edge of the image by having a pixel that forms a dot along the edge and a pixel that does not form the dot appeared, and the photo-curing ink is cured by irradiating the image with the light from the irradiation unit.
US08714724B2	Phase change inks containing novel synergist A phase change ink composition including a pigment; a carrier; a dispersant; and a copper phthalocyanine synergist having a carboxylic acid group thereon.
US08714721B2	Compliant liquid path member and receptacle for ink recirculation In an inkjet printer, an ink reclamation apparatus receives ink emitted from at least one printhead. The ink reclamation apparatus includes an ink receptacle and a liquid path member that extends from the ink receptacle to contact the face of at least one printhead proximate to a plurality of inkjets in the at least one printhead. The liquid path member draws liquid ink from the plurality of inkjets and the liquid ink enters the ink receptacle. The ink reclamation apparatus returns the ink to a reservoir in the printhead and reduces or eliminates wasted ink during operation of the at least one printhead.
US08714720B2	Metallized print head container and method An ink container for an inkjet print head includes a substantially rigid body of polymer material, the body including a base and a side wall integrally formed with the base at a perimeter of the base, the body containing ink in a low pressure chamber, and the polymer material having moderate to high air permeability. A flexible film is sealed over the low pressure chamber, inwardly flexible in response to a decrease in pressure and ink volume in the low pressure chamber, and outwardly flexible in response to an increase in pressure and ink volume in the low pressure chamber. A metal is coated on a perimeter of the polymer body and on an outer exposed surface of the flexible film, the metal to form a metal coating configured to decrease the air permeability of the polymer body, the metal coating being formed from at least copper.
US08714716B2	Pulsed air-actuated micro-droplet on demand ink jet The present subject matter relates to a method and system for pulsed air-actuated micro-droplet on demand jetting, especially for jetting high viscosity liquids. A needle extends from a liquid chamber and terminates in a drop-forming orifice outlet from which micro-droplets are generated. At least two air jets direct a timed pulse of air at the drop-forming orifice outlet of the needle. The pulsed air is synchronized with the formation of a desired volume of liquid at the orifice outlet to extract and propel a micro-droplet at high velocity to a substrate. The air jets are turned on prior to the forming of the desired volume at the orifice outlet of the needle, and turned off after the micro-droplet had been produced.
US08714707B2	Method of making hole in substrate, substrate, nozzle plate and ink jet head A method of making a hole in a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface and on which the hole is formed, includes forming a first depression in which the first depression is formed at the first surface of the substrate; forming a film in which the film is formed at the first depression; forming a second depression in which the second depression is formed at a location opposing the first depression of the second surface; and forming a hole in which the film is removed, the first depression and the second depression communicate with each other and thereby the hole is formed, wherein the second depression includes a plurality of straight lines and arcs in a plan view.
US08714706B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus and method of ejecting liquid A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid supplying unit that supplies the liquid, a head unit that has a nozzle row, in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting the liquid is aligned, a control unit that forms a raster area, in which a plurality of ejection dots in units of the nozzle rows is aligned in a main scanning direction, an ejection amount calculating unit that calculates ejection amounts of the liquid needed for forming the ejection dots, and a division scanning unit that divides the raster area so as to be formed by performing a plurality of head scanning operations in accordance with a transitional change in the ejection amounts that is formed by aligning the ejection amounts calculated by the ejection amount calculating unit in the order in which the ejection dots in units of nozzle rows are formed.
US08714704B2	Liquid ejection head and liquid ejecting apparatus The liquid ejection head capable of securing a high performance of supplying liquid through supply ports while reducing the size of the substrate is provided. The liquid ejecting apparatus using such a liquid ejection head are also provided. The third supply ports situated between the first ejection port array and the second ejection port array include a portion of a large dimension and a portion of a small dimension.
US08714698B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes recording heads, a maintenance device, a carriage, cap members, cams, a cam shaft, a feeler member, a home position detection device, and a cap position determination device. The feeler member has a first portion to detect a home position of the cam shaft with the home position detection device and a second portion to determine with the cap position determination device whether the cap members are at a raised position or a lowered position. When the cap position determination device determines that a suction cap is at the raised position, the suction cap is lowered to the lowered position before the carriage mounting the recording heads moves for scanning in a first direction. When the cap position determination device determines that the suction cap is at the lowered position, the carriage is permitted to move to a print start position.
US08714696B2	Liquid collection device and liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid collection device includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid, a suction-delivery unit that sucks the liquid from the liquid ejecting head and delivers the sucked liquid, a liquid collection unit that collects the liquid delivered from the suction-delivery unit, and a gas delivery unit that delivers gas to the liquid collection unit.
US08714686B2	Recording apparatus The present invention includes a stopper that regulates movement of the material onto which the recording will be performed, preventing the material from moving from a cassette to a guide surface when loading the cassette in a loading section, and a sensor that detects that the stopper is in the retracted position.
US08714685B2	Printing control apparatus and printing control method A printing control apparatus configured to execute printing using continuous sheets stored in a plurality of storage portions includes a determination unit configured to determine a continuous sheet usable by each print job in a print queue, and a decision unit configured to decide a use order of the continuous sheets stored in the plurality of storage portions based on a result of determination by the determination unit, wherein the decision unit decides the use order so that a continuous sheet with a smaller remaining amount is used preferentially.
US08714683B2	Image recording apparatus and image recording method including a humidifying unit An image recording apparatus includes: a transport unit that transports, along a transport path, a medium having a recording base material whose one surface is a recording layer for an image and whose other surface is an adhesive layer and a separating base material that covers the adhesive layer; a recording unit that records an image onto the medium; a heating unit that fixes the recorded image onto the medium; and a humidifying unit that humidifies the medium.
US08714682B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes a recording head, a conveyance belt, a reverse passage, and a charger. The belt is looped around at least two rollers to adhere a recording medium thereto by electrostatic force and convey the medium. The belt defines a normal conveyance area in which the medium is conveyed in a first direction with the medium facing the head. The reverse passage sends the medium back again to a portion of the belt upstream from the head in the first direction. The reverse passage includes an opposite conveyance area of the belt in which the medium is conveyed in a second direction and a bypass passage to guide the medium separated from the opposite conveyance area toward the normal conveyance area. The charger is disposed between the bypass passage and an outer surface of the belt to charge the outer surface of the belt.
US08714669B1	Storage and retrieval machine with variable-height door opening This storage and retrieval machine consists of an enclosure with an enclosure opening and two independently positionable doors, which move vertically to block or provide access into the storage machine. The enclosure contains one or more shelf stacks, where each shelf stack has multiple, easily adjustable, drawer-style shelves to form storage areas of various vertical dimensions. One may combine several shelf stacks to form a rotatable storage cylinder. Shelves used with either the fixed or rotatable shelf supports can be blocked by one or both doors to prohibit their repositioning.
US08714662B2	Hydraulic brake system A hydraulic brake system includes a braking state switching device which selectively realizes: a high-pressure-source-pressure dependent braking state in which a brake force is generated with a magnitude that depends on a pressure of brake fluid supplied from a high-pressure-source device; and an operation-force/high-pressure-source-pressure dependent braking state in which a brake force can be generated with a magnitude that depends on both of the pressure of the brake fluid supplied from the high-pressure-source device and a brake operation force of a driver which is applied to a brake operating member and that is larger than the magnitude of a brake force which can be generated in the high-pressure-source-pressure dependent braking state. The brake system may be equipped with a high-pressure-source device having a relatively small capacity, thereby allowing the high-pressure-source device to be compact and low-cost.
US08714652B2	Modular furniture utilizing securely stacked frames A frame of rectangular configuration, constructed of structural components and usable in connection with modular furniture. Front and back frame components are interconnected by a pair of side components, and a locking bar member extends between the side components and is movable therealong while remaining essentially parallel to the back component. The locking bar member has a straight edge in alignment with and parallel to a straight edge of the back component, such that when the locking bar member is brought into a relatively close relation to the back component, the straight edges of the back component and the locking bar member can hold therebetween a backrest equipped with cleats in a secure, fixed position, without the need for screws, bolts, pins or other joinder elements.
US08714644B2	Convertible juvenile vehicle seat A vehicle seat for children includes a base and an armchair. The armchair includes a seat and a seat back. The seat back has in its upper portion at least one strap passage intended to receive a chest strap of a safety belt of a motor vehicle.
US08714637B2	Chassis structure for a motor vehicle A chassis structure for a motor vehicle includes an extruded base member made of light metal and a reinforcing member made of steel to reinforce the base member. The base member has two walls which are spaced from one another by a distance, with the reinforcing member connecting free ends of the walls. The reinforcing member and the base member are joined to one another using electromagnetic pulse welding.
US08714634B2	Lower structure of vehicle A floor member includes a floor member front arranged at a front side and a floor member rear arranged at a rear side. A member rear upper is mounted on the floor member front. The floor member front and the floor member rear respectively have a front upper bead and a rear lower bead that extend in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle.
US08714633B2	Honeycomb-structured floor panel for a vehicle incorporating a fastener element The invention provides a laminated floor panel for a vehicle cabin. The panel comprises a core (1) shaped as a honeycomb and wrapped in outside metal walls (2, 3, 4). A fastener element (5) for fastening vehicle cabin equipment is set back in the panel, being made integrally in a traffic wall (2) of the panel by machining, the traffic wall (2) being derived from a metal plate (9) from which the fastener element (5) and the side walls (4) of the panel are formed by removing material from the metal plate (9).
US08714631B2	Raised and recessed sheet material, and vehicle panel and laminated structure using the same A raised and recessed sheet material having extremely high stiffness, and useful vehicle panel and laminated structure using the same. The surface of the sheet is formed by a plurality of squares arranged in two mutually perpendicular directions, and has a raised and recessed pattern. A basic configuration A, where first regions M and a Z-shaped second region N are formed in the square, and basic configurations B to D derived from the basic configuration A are butted together at their peripheral edges such that first regions M having those peripheral edges are butted together and the second regions N having those peripheral edges are butted together. The raised and recessed pattern is formed by upwardly raising the first regions M and downwardly recessing the second regions N, or upwardly raising or downwardly recessing either one or both of the first and second regions M and N.
US08714627B2	Spoiler A spoiler includes an outer member and an inner member. The outer member includes a base plate portion, a cover plate portion facing the base plate portion, and a bent portion connecting the base plate portion and the cover plate portion. The inner member is arranged between the base plate portion and the cover plate portion. The inner member includes a back plate portion facing the base plate portion, and a wall portion extending from the back plate portion toward the cover plate portion. The base plate portion and the back plate portion are vibration-welded, and the cover plate portion and the wall portion are vibration-welded. The wall portion includes a plurality of grooves forming a corrugated structure in a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to a direction in which the wall portion extends from the back plate portion toward the cover plate portion.
US08714626B2	Stitched seams for vehicle interior coverings A vehicle interior component including a decorative covering includes a seam formed therein. The seam is formed in a single sheet of covering material while having the appearance of being formed by sewing two separate pieces of covering material together. The seam includes lines of functional stitching and decorative stitching and can simulate the appearance of a French seam. Sewing the decorative stitching into the single sheet of covering material can allow symmetric thread patterns to be more readily formed as part of the finished seam, and a seam can be located anywhere along the surface of a sheet of covering material to achieve a cut-and-sew appearance.
US08714622B2	Spring Retainer for tonneau cover A tonneau system for a pickup bed comprising a bracket system connectable with a sidewall of the pickup bed, a header system, and a spring retainer system operably coupled between the bracket system and the header system. The spring retainer system can be biased into a locked position wherein the header system is coupled with the bracket system. The spring retainer system can be positionable into an unlocked position wherein the header system is decoupled from the bracket system.
US08714620B1	Cowl trim with integrated footrest A cowl trim assembly includes a panel body having front and side panel portions with anchor mechanism adapted to couple the trim assembly to a vehicle frame, and more specifically, to a vehicle door sill frame. A footrest assembly extends outwardly from the panel body having one or more reinforcement members disposed on an underside of the footrest assembly which are adapted to support the footrest assembly on a vehicle floor. In this configuration the footrest assembly is an integrated part of the cowl trim assembly, thereby providing a one-piece trim component having a self supporting footrest assembly, wherein the reinforcement members are adapted to carry loads applied to the footrest assembly by a vehicle occupant to the vehicle frame.
US08714619B2	Vehicle seat The invention relates to a vehicle seat (1) comprising at least one first segment (3, 3′) with a seat part (6) as well as a second segment (2) with a seat part (5) and a backrest (4). The second segment can be stowed underneath the seat part (6) while the backrest (4) is collapsible.
US08714617B2	Vehicle floor console In one embodiment, a vehicle floor console is provided that includes a support structure and a retaining feature pivotally biased toward the support structure. The retaining feature is configured to secure cargo between the support structure and the retaining feature.
US08714610B2	Carton clamp arm with adjustable pivot block A lift truck clamp arm assembly for engaging large cartons, which may contain large household appliances. Pivoting clamp pad support assemblies are adjustable to vary a radial spacing between a pivot pin and a clamp pad supported on the clamp arm assembly by attachment to the adjustable clamp pad support assembly, to provide desired pressure concentrations at selected parts of a carton to be gripped.
US08714608B2	Pin-type gripper A pin-type gripper adapted for holding and transferring a target made of soft material. The pin-type gripper includes: a cylinder unit; a pair of slide blocks which are obliquely disposed at the left and right sides of the end of a piston rod and extend in a skirt shape; and links which transmit the piston motion to the slide blocks. A pin which pegs a target is installed on an end of each slide block. One cylinder unit controls two slide members at the same time. Thus, the pin-type gripper is superior in structure, control, and economic performance to a typical gripper that requires two cylinders and a complicated design.
US08714607B1	Hand shovel assembly A hand shovel assembly facilitates emptying of the shovel with minimal lifting. The assembly includes a shaft having an upper end and a lower end. A pan is coupled to the lower end of the shaft. The pan has a bottom wall, a back wall which extends upwardly from the bottom wall, and a pair of side walls coupled to and extending forwardly from opposite ends of the back wall defining an interior space of the pan. An upper wall is coupled to the pan over the bottom wall. A motivator is coupled to the pan between the bottom wall and the upper wall. The motivator selectively urges the upper wall away from the bottom wall wherein the upper wall is configured to urge material in the interior space of the pan out of the interior space.
US08714605B1	Assembly for exerting a force on a zipper and method of use A device to assist with the working of a zipper is described herein. The device includes a retractor body and a retractable clasp connected to the retractor body with a flexible member. The retractor body has a brake system in order to maintain a desired length of a flexible member. A removable decorative cap is also applied to the retractor body.
US08714604B1	Sanitary pet feces retrieval system A sanitary pet feces retrieval system having a disposable liner features a feces scoop having an elongated handle with a first scooping jaw and a mated, opposing second scooping jaw pivotally located on a handle second end. A lever pivots the first scooping jaw away from the second scooping jaw into an open position for retrieving feces from a ground surface. The system features a bag dispenser located on the handle. Disposable bags are sequentially located on a bag roll. A bag fully covers a scoop inner surface and wraps around to fully cover a first jaw outer surface and a second jaw outer surface. A bag upper lip is located at a first jaw posterior opening and a second jaw posterior opening via attachment to a plurality of jaw eyelets located on a jaw posterior lip.
US08714601B2	Flanged pipe An engaging dented portion is formed in a region from an axially intermediate portion of the pipe insertion hole to a position of a connecting surface of a flange on an inner peripheral surface of the pipe insertion hole. The end portion of the pipe is inserted into the pipe insertion hole of the flange so that the end face of the pipe is positioned within a range from the axially intermediate portion of the pipe insertion hole to a position of the connecting surface of the flange. Next, each die segment of an expanding die arranged in the hollow portion of the pipe is moved radially outward of the pipe to thereby subject the end portion of the pipe to an expanding process so that the end portion of the pipe is engaged with the engaging dented portion. With this, the flange is connected to the end portion of the pipe.
US08714599B2	Sealing microsawtooth ring joint of two opposing surfaces A sealing microsawtooth ring joint, made between a toothed seating surface and a full plain seated surface by a microsawtooth ring with its tooth crest on the seating surface being a cutting edge whose corner or whose crest angle is about 90°˜120°, with its tooth height Zt being about 10˜20 times the roughness Ra of the seated surface, and with the ratio of its tooth pitch Xs to its tooth height Zt being 20˜500 to ensure that the tight joint has a microcosmic line contact followed by a surface contact or to ensure that the tight joint has both such a line contact as to be able to provide a necessary seating stress locally and such a surface contact as to be able to protect the line contact from being excessively pressed to get blunt or disappeared, can be used either as a pressure-tight joint or as a self-energizing tight joint of any two surfaces such as flats to flats, cones to cones or spheres, spheres to spheres or cones etc., thus simplifying and unifying the designing, calculating, manufacturing, selecting, installing and maintaining of fussy gaskets for a tight joint of flat surfaces, avoiding the lapping of formed jointing surfaces without using soft gaskets, increasing the reliability of tight joints and the utilizing coefficient of natural resources. The sealing microsawtooth ring joint can still have an extra sealing reliability and safety sensation by selectively adding one of four basic gland seals.
US08714598B2	Hydraulic fluid coupling comprising an inline swivel joint A hydraulic fluid coupling for attaching two hydraulic hoses that comprises an inline swivel joint to prevent twisting of the hoses. The coupling comprises a first and second coupling portion, with the second coupling portion rotatable relative to the first coupling portion. There are two bearings and a ring shaped piston that slides toward the second bearing in response to fluid pressure inside the coupling. Engagement of the piston with the second bearing urges the second coupling portion towards the first coupling portion, against the action of fluid pressure between the first and second couplings. This reduces the load on the first bearing and transfers some of that load to the second bearing, thereby making it easier to rotate the second coupling portion.
US08714594B1	Combine header transport trailer A combine header transport trailer for transporting a combine header. The trailer includes electrically operated jacks or screw actuators for raising and lowering the header bar thereon and for moving the header bar inwardly and outwardly with respect to the trailer.
US08714593B2	Human powered vehicle with unpowered wheels A human powered vehicle with four unpowered wheels. Front and rear wheel bearing sections are joined by a top frame structure. A swing suspended from the frame structure supports a driving rider in either a prone or a sitting position. In the prone position, the rider is oriented, heard first, along the axis of travel, and positioned beneath the frame structure. The vehicle has a steering mechanism and a braking system, both situated to be operative by the rider when the rider is positioned to be in any of a standing, sitting or prone position.
US08714591B1	Vehicles, net assemblies, and clampers therefor A clamper includes a living hinge, a first end portion, and a second end portion. The first end portion includes a first buckle portion. The second end portion includes a second buckle portion. The first end portion and the second end portion are configured for engagement with one another in confronting relationship. Net assemblies and vehicles are also provided.
US08714588B2	Side airbag apparatus A side airbag apparatus has an inflatable portion, which is deployed and inflated on a side of a seat of a vehicle by inflation gas. The inflatable portion is divided into upstream and downstream sections by a partitioning member including a valve having an opening and a pair of valve body elements. Immediately after the beginning of the supplying of the gas, the valve body elements remain in contact with each other to close the valve. When the upstream section restrains an occupant, a force is exerted to the partitioning member by the occupant, which causes the partitioning member to warp and the valve body elements to be separated from each other to open the valve. The upstream section has a shoulder-protecting portion, which is deployed and inflated on a side of a region of the occupant including a rear end part and a middle part of a shoulder.
US08714586B2	Occupant protection device A system for protecting an occupant positioned in a seat of a vehicle. The system includes a gas emitting device positioned adjacent to an occupant of a vehicle. The system also may include a controller configured to control the activation of the gas emitting device. A sensor configured to detect the vertical acceleration of the vehicle, may be included. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor and activate the gas emitting device when the signal from the sensor is indicative of a condition where the vertical acceleration of the vehicle exceeds a predetermined threshold. When activated, the gas emitting device may be configured to emit gas toward the legs of the occupant so that the force of the emitted gas directly forces the legs of the occupant to move.
US08714583B2	Interior panel part with airbag cover An interior panel for the interior of a vehicle and a method for the production thereof. The interior panel has first and second layers and with the first layer having an air bag cover region extending over an air bag opening in the second layer. The interior panel has a connecting part which is formed from: a first fastening section which is fastened to the airbag cover region of the first layer, a second fastening section which is fastened to the lower side of the second layer, and a coupling section situated between the first fastening section and the second fastening section. The coupling section is made of flexible material such that the airbag cover region may be partially separated from the first layer during airbag deployment while being held by the coupling section.
US08714580B2	Kit for providing wheeled apparatus having multiple wheelbase use configurations A kit for modifying a wheeled apparatus comprises a set of caster unit mounts, a set of caster units, a subframe mounting structure, and a subframe. Each caster unit mount has a caster unit mounting structure and a main frame engaging structure attached to the caster unit mounting structure. The main frame engaging structure is attachable to a main frame and/or a load support structure of the wheeled apparatus. Each caster unit has a mounting portion configured for being secured to the caster unit mounting structure of a respective caster unit mount such that a first-size wheel thereof can rotate about of a rotational axis thereof and pivot about a pivot axis thereof. The subframe mounting structure, which is attachable to the main frame, has a first end portion pivotably attached to the subframe mounting structure and a second end portion having a second size wheel mounting structure integral therewith.
US08714577B2	Flexible ergonomic sportsboard wedges Flexible binding wedges are provided with flexion slots cut in a widthwise direction to allow flexibility when mounted to a sportsboard such as a snowboard. “T” inserts through the wedges provide a mount for boot bindings. Flex adjustment bushings may be inserted into the slots to adjust the flexibility of the wedge when mounted on a sportsboard, e.g., a snowboard. The flexible wedges may be mounted under a top surface of the sportsboard, or even on top of the finished upper surface of the sportsboard.
US08714576B2	Drive-and-steering mechanisms used in the design of compact, carry-on vehicles The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.
US08714575B2	Automated retractable running board A running board assembly is provided for a motor vehicle. The running board assembly includes an actuator housing fixedly mounted to the motor vehicle. An arm is slidable relative to the actuator housing in opposing inboard and outboard directions for movement into and out of the actuator housing. A linear mechanism is disposed within the actuator housing and is spaced apart from the arm. The linear mechanism is also operably connected to the arm to provide linear movement of the arm in the inboard and outboard directions. A step is pivotal relative to the arm and movable in the opposing inboard and outboard directions therewith for movement between a stowed position and a deployed position.
US08714571B2	Torque rod The present invention is directed to a torque rod comprised of a two piece mating design which increases rigidity and reduces the number of welds. Unlike other designs this design has single piece forged ends which permits the torque rod of the present invention to take greater payloads than other designs can take. The design further includes internal bearings.
US08714570B2	Quick-disconnect handle for lifting and dumping of wheelbarrow cart A second quick-disconnect wide handle is attached to the front of a stable wheelbarrow cart to enable two persons to quickly lift and dump the contents of a full wheelbarrow cart into a dumpster or walled compost bin. This accessory handle is easily removed when not in use. The handle has other uses such as moving plywood panels or table-tops, doors, or other large flat items. The quick-disconnect feature uses a quick disconnect clamp with the addition of an elongated handle and attachment of a rod attachment to it; whereby one such clamp is used at each rod end attaching the handle to the bin of the wheelbarrow cart.
US08714565B1	Seal A seal has a first endplate and has a second endplate. A first bellow spring spans first lateral portions of the first and second endplates. A second bellow spring spans second lateral portions of the first and second endplates.
US08714563B2	Annular elastic gasket An annular elastic gasket adapted to be disposed between an insertion hole formed in a housing and a cylindrical body which is inserted into the housing via the insertion hole in such a manner that the annular elastic gasket elastically contacts an inner surface of the insertion hole and an outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body. The annular elastic gasket comprises a hollow cylindrical gasket base body comprised of a molded body made of an elastic material, to be compressedly fitted and retained in the insertion hole, an annular seal lip portion extending in the centripetal direction from the gasket base body and an elastic extending portion which constitutes an extending base portion at an end of a tip side portion of the annular seal lip portion, being bent in such a manner that the end directs in the centripetal direction. The elastic extending portion elastically expands in the diametrical direction together with the tip side portion when the cylindrical body is inserted into the insertion hole, thereby the elastic extending portion elastically contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body while maintaining elastic restoring force in the contracting direction.
US08714561B2	Oil seal To improve durability of a seal lip (4) of an oil seal (1) in slidably contact with the peripheral surface of a shaft (23), a lubricating oil supply section (11) for collecting adhered oil and dropping it on the shaft (23) is provided at a forward end portion of an installation section (2), the lubricating oil supply section (11) has projections (12) formed on the inner peripheral surface of the installation section (2) to collect oil on the surface thereof, the surface of each projection (12) has a recess (13) for temporarily accumulating oil, guidance projections, or a slope for collecting the oil, and dams are formed on a forward end face (2a) of the installation section (2) to block the oil flowing down along the circumferential direction on the forward end face (2a) and guides the oil toward each projection (12).
US08714559B2	Spindle seal with tangential flow-inducing distribution ring A cartridge-type bearing seal includes removably connected stator and rotor sections. The stator section supports a distribution ring that divides an internal annular volume into radially outside and inside portions. The ring has at least one tangentially oriented duct. When pressurized purge fluid is supplied to the outside portion, the fluid flows through the ducts to induce tangential fluid flow within the inside portion, which causes circumferentially uniform fluid pressure in the annular volume adjacent the rotating shaft. The pressurized fluid traverses a flow path along the shaft and eventually out of the bearing housing, to prevent contaminant ingress between the rotating shaft and the bearing housing. This bearing seal eliminates the need to machine a tangentially oriented passage in the bearing housing.
US08714558B2	Welded bellows seal assembly A welded bellows seal assembly is provided. In an embodiment, a welded bellows seal assembly includes a seal ring including a seal ring shell, an outer housing; and a bellows extending from a portion of the seal ring shell to a portion of the outer housing. The seal ring shell may include a bellows segment that extends longitudinally over the bellows. Moreover, in embodiments, the bellows may be connected to the seal ring at a lower inner diameter portion of the seal ring shell. Embodiments of the seal assembly may permit the tuning of the seal assembly to improve resistance physical effects, such as twisting, under anticipated operational conditions.
US08714556B2	Pump seal A pump seal for sealing a gap between a housing and a rotating shaft including a first shell configured to engage the pump housing and to be stationary therewith. The first shell is provided with a first wearable sealing element. The pump seal further includes a second shell configured to engage the shaft and to rotate therewith, the second shell being provided with a second wearable sealing element. The first and second wearable sealing elements are configured to be in substantially sealing contact with each other during operation. The pump seal further includes a sintered retainer ring arranged between a portion of the first shell and the first wearable sealing element for substantially preventing rotation of the first wearable sealing element relative to the first shell.
US08714552B1	Ticket dispenser A ticket dispenser includes a first engaging member advancing a ticket at a first rate of speed, a second engaging member advancing the ticket at a second, greater, rate of speed and a third engaging member advancing the ticket at a third, even greater, rate of speed. The ticket has length greater than a) the spacing between the first and second engaging members and b) the spacing between the second and third engaging members. As the ticket advances through the ticket dispensing mechanism, the second engaging member engages the ticket before the first engaging member disengages the ticket and the third engaging member engages the ticket before the second engaging member disengages the ticket. A force of the second ticket engaging member is greater than that of the first and third engaging members.
US08714544B2	Media cassette housing system and image formation apparatus A media cassette housing system, which may be usable in an image formation apparatus such as a printer or copier, includes: a guide member configured to guide an insertion of a media cassette from an entrance into an installed position of a cassette housing unit and to guide a pulling out of the media cassette from the installed position to the entrance of the cassette housing unit; and a swingable member provided to the guide member and swingable in inserting and pulling directions of the media cassette. The swingable member includes a slide guide surface configured to come into sliding contact with a slide surface of the media cassette upon the insertion and pulling of the medium cassette.
US08714543B2	Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus The present invention relates a sheet feeding apparatus with a lifting and lowering mechanism in a sheet deck 2, which includes abutting portions 101a to 101d which makes wire hanging portions 64a to 64d of a sheet stacking table 52 abut thereon and makes the sheet stacking table 52 lockable with respect to a storing portion 61. The mechanism also includes a pulse motor 27 and a one-way clutch 40. A controller 5 drives the pulse motor 27 to be rotated in a lifting direction of the sheet stacking table 52, further drives the pulse motor 27 to be rotated in the same direction even after the wire hanging portions 64a to 64d abut on the abutting portions 101a to 101d to cause the pulse motor 27 to step out, and renders the pulse motor 27 non-conductive. Thus, the wire hanging portions is locked to abut on the abutting portions.
US08714537B2	Lifting device clamp having a curvilinear surface A clamp device (30) includes a plurality of arms (32, 34). One of the arms supports a securing member (36). The other arm includes a curvilinear surface (40) that directly engages a curved wall of an article at a location in line with a centerline of the securing member. The curvilinear surface (40) allows for the clamp device to reliably engage an article having a curved wall for a lifting operation. One example use of a disclosed example device is for lifting tubes associated with a hydraulic elevator system.
US08714535B2	Universal machine tool including a chip collecting space A machine tool comprising a machine column, a work spindle moveable in guides along the machine column in two coordinate axes by a motor and adapted to receive a cutting tool, a machine bed arranged on the front end of the machine column and on the top side of which a horizontal linear guide for a workpiece table is arranged, and a linear motor for moving the workpiece table in the horizontal linear guide in a further coordinate axis. A channel-like chip space for collecting chips accumulating when the workpiece is machined extends on the top side of the machine bed in the direction of the further coordinate axis. The linear motor is arranged on the top side of the machine bed laterally and parallel to the channel-like chip space, wherein first and second guide rails of the horizontal linear guide are arranged on opposite sides of the linear motor.
US08714534B2	Support assembly for servicing a stator frame that uses spring assemblies to support a stator core A support assembly for servicing a stator frame of a power generator includes a plurality of rails and a trolley. The rails are supported on frame rings of a main housing of the stator frame. The rails have upper surfaces that provide temporary support for lower support surfaces of second laminations of a second stator core once the second laminations are inserted into desired axial positions within the main housing. The trolley is provided for axial movement on the upper surfaces of the rails for inserting the second laminations into the main housing. The trolley includes a lamination-engaging portion including a lamination support surface for supporting upper support surfaces of the second laminations and a plurality of rail wheels provided for axial movement of the trolley within the main housing on the upper surfaces of the rails.
US08714523B2	Valve for vacuum process Provided is a valve for vacuum process, including: a first valve body having an inlet port and an outlet port; a sealing unit configured to move forward to and backward from the inlet port so as to have a closed position and an open position; a shaft covered with a bellows, and configured to move the sealing unit between the closed position and the open position; a cover for shielding the bellows from corrosive gas when the sealing unit is in the open position; and a cover guide unit configured to guide the cover to move along the shaft.
US08714522B2	Fluid control valve A fluid control valve, which includes a body forming a fluid passage and including a sealing surface positioned in the fluid passage, a valve body configured to rotate between an open position and closed position within the fluid passage, an elastic sealing member provided at a rim portion of the valve body, and a lip portion extended from the elastic sealing member to be directed towards a center portion of the valve body. The lip portion contacts the sealing surface and a surface of the lip portion facing the sealing surface is exposed to the fluid passage.
US08714521B2	Butterfly valve, valve seat and valve seat retainer Butterfly valves comprise a valve seat comprising a generally S-shaped cross-section and a valve seat retainer configured with appropriately shaped cooperating surfaces. Fluid control systems comprising such a butterfly valve are also disclosed.
US08714518B2	Valve with actuation sub-assembly A valve assembly includes a valve body with an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber extending between the inlet and the outlet and an actuation sub-assembly. Positioned in the chamber is a flow restrictor, which is positionable between a valve open position wherein the fluid communication between the inlet and outlet is open and a valve closed position wherein the fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet is closed. A slow-close actuation sub-assembly includes a stem for engaging the flow restrictor, and includes a handle and plurality of annular members disposed around a shaft for resisting rotation of the shaft via the handle.
US08714517B2	Bonnet apparatus to provide live-loading to a seal Bonnet apparatus to provide live-loading to a seal are described herein. An example bonnet assembly includes a housing having a recessed opening to define a shoulder and a sealing disc disposed within the recessed opening. A biasing element is disposed in the recessed opening between a flange of the sealing disc and the shoulder of the housing to provide a load to a seal to be disposed between the housing and the fluid device. The biasing element biases the sealing disc away from the housing and the biasing element enables the sealing disc to move within the recessed opening relative to the housing when the bonnet assembly is coupled to the fluid device.
US08714514B2	Pinch valve having integrated pressure chamber A pinch-type isolation valve (10) is provided having an integrated, on-board reservoir (42) for storing a pressurized fluid capable of effecting the collapse of an internal sleeve (32) upon actuation of the valve. Valve (10) comprises an outer wall 16 and an inner wall (30) which define the pressurized gas reservoir (42). An actuator assembly (14) is provided to cause and direct a flow of pressurized gas from the reservoir (42) into a gas-receiving chamber (39) defined between the inner wall (30) and sleeve (32).
US08714513B2	Mold insert assembly and method of use Embodiments of a mold insert assembly and methods of use are disclosed herein. A mold insert assembly includes, but is not limited to a driving member that moves between a retracting position and an extending position, a plurality of first-segment members engaging the driving member and moving between a first retracted position and a first extended position and a plurality of second-segment members proximate the plurality of first-segment members and configured to move between a second retracted position and a second extended position as the driving member moves to the extending position. The plurality of first-segment members and second-segment members cooperate to form a substantially liquid-tight periphery when the driving member is in the extending position. The plurality of first-segment members second-segment members are configured to move towards the first and second retracted positions, respectively when the driving member moves towards the retracting position.
US08714512B2	Devisible climbing shoe of a climbing formwork A climbing shoe (10) of a climbing formwork for fixing to a concreting section (14) of a building comprises a sliding shoe part (16) on which claws (50) are provided. At least one claw (50) is provided in a pivotal and/or telescopic manner on the sliding shoe part (16).
US08714509B2	Slide rail device for vehicle The slide rail device includes a fixing member fixing a bottom wall of a lower rail extending the forward/rearward direction to a floor surface of a vehicle, wherein an upper part of the fixing member constitutes a projecting portion projecting upward from the bottom wall; a locking mechanism provided between the upper and lower rails and which restricts or releases a restriction on sliding of the upper rail; and a lock release lever provided on the upper rail to be rotatable in the upward/downward direction and which releases the restriction on sliding imposed by the locking mechanism. A rail-incorporated portion of the lock release lever which is positioned between the upper rail and the bottom wall of the lower rail includes a base wall at a higher position than the projecting portion and a side wall being lateral to the projecting position.
US08714505B1	Lighted cup holder for seating arrangements A method and apparatus include attaching a lighted cup holder to a seating arrangement. The lighted cup holder includes a cup holder body and a light-producing light source, with the cup holder body being attached to the seating arrangement and having a cup receptacle therein, the light-producing source being disposed within the cup receptacle for illuminating the receptacle. A light-sensitive element operatively connected to the light source selectively controls production of light by the light source in such a manner that illumination of the cup holder is provided only under conditions where visibility is reduced to the point that it becomes difficult to locate the cup holder. The light-sensitive element is mounted on a master lighted cup holder and controls illumination of the master lighted cup holder and one or more slave lighted cup holders operatively connected to the master lighted cup holder.
US08714504B2	Arrangement for mounting a support base on a wall Arrangement for attaching a base (10), a tray, a platform or a similar support to a wall with the help of turning arms (4), (5) attached to the mentioned wall in which case the mentioned base can be moved with the help of the arms (4), (5). The base can be moved outwards from the wall in horizontal direction at the first stage of the moving in which case the first arm (4) and the second arm (5) of the arms are both hinged to be turning out of the wall in horizontal direction and the mentioned base (10) is attached to the moveable ends of the arms (4), (5) and that in the arrangement when the moving of the base (10) sideways is further continued, an elevation adjustment bar (7) belonging to the second arm (5) and sliding in the height direction is arranged to slide downwards and at the same time to set the support elements of the base (10) lower at the location of the second arm (5) in order to achieve a tilted position for the base (10).
US08714503B1	Connector for stably mounting bow-hunting quivers to a support structure An exemplary quiver mount permits a user to stably mount various quivers to a tree stand. The quiver mount includes a mounting body having spaced mounting body flanges extending from a mounting body base and defining a mounting body valley sized to receive a tree stand limb. Threaded members extending into the mounting body valley engage the limb and help secure the mounting body to the tree stand. The mounting body base preferably includes pairs of equally-spaced quiver bracket mounting apertures (e.g., 1.3125 inches apart). Various quiver brackets that removably receive different quivers may be secured to the mounting body via the quiver bracket mounting apertures. A quiver bracket mount between the quiver bracket and the mounting body allows rotation of the quiver bracket without its removal and replacement. Quiver gripping arms extending from the mounting body form a quiver gripping mouth for removably securing differently-configured quivers.
US08714501B2	Mounting bracket for a pump A mounting bracket may include a base plate, at least one stationary clip disposed on the base plate, a push releasing plate disposed in spaced apart relation to the at least one stationary clip, and at least one movable clip operatively coupled to and movable with the push releasing plate. The stationary clip or clips and movable clip or clips are disposed and configured to mate with cavities in respective ends of a pump when the push releasing plate is in a non-pivoted position.
US08714499B2	Adjustable foot for furniture This invention relates to an adjustable foot support including a mount housing and lower housing. The mount housing is configured to be externally mounted to a piece of furniture and includes an internal, threaded column. The lower housing also includes an internal threaded column with the column configured to mate with the mount housing.
US08714496B2	Conduit harness A conduit harness has an inner part and an outer part which are snap-fitted together to provide redundancy in the event of failure of either part.
US08714494B2	Railway train critical systems having control system redundancy and asymmetric communications capability A railway vital or critical application system substitutes commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware and/or software for railway-domain specific product components, yet is validated to conform with railway vital system failure-free standards. The vital system uses a pair of COTS personal computers and operating systems with asymmetric communications capability. Each computer and operating system may differ for additional redundancy. Both computers receive and verify vital systems input message data and security code integrity and separately generate output data responsive to the input message. The first computer has sole capability to send vital system output messages including the output data and an output security code, but only the second computer has the capability of generating the output security code. A failure of either computer's hardware, software or processing capability results failure to transmit a vital system output message or an output message that cannot be verified by other vital systems.
US08714493B2	Trailing edge flap A single slotted trailing edge flap arrangement for an aircraft wing, comprising a main flap element and an auxiliary flap element sealed to and supported by the main flap element for movement between a retracted and an extended position relative to the main flap element so as to vary the planform area of the flap. The auxiliary flap element remains sealed to the main flap element when in its extended position, and movement of the auxiliary flap element relative to the main flap element is solely translational. The auxiliary flap element may be translationally deployed from the main flap element by sliding the auxiliary flap element out from the underside of the main flap element. Also, a method of operating the flap arrangement.
US08714491B2	Thermal protection system with staggered joints The thermal protection system disclosed herein is suitable for use with a spacecraft such as a reentry module or vehicle, where the spacecraft has a convex surface to be protected. An embodiment of the thermal protection system includes a plurality of heat resistant panels, each having an outer surface configured for exposure to atmosphere, an inner surface opposite the outer surface and configured for attachment to the convex surface of the spacecraft, and a joint edge defined between the outer surface and the inner surface. The joint edges of adjacent ones of the heat resistant panels are configured to mate with each other to form staggered joints that run between the peak of the convex surface and the base section of the convex surface.
US08714488B2	Elastic aircraft joint fairing A method and apparatus comprising an adhesive layer and a conductive elastic material layer. The adhesive layer is capable of being placed in a channel for a joint. The adhesive layer is capable of resuming an original shape after being deformed. A conductive elastic material layer is on the adhesive layer. The coating covers the conductive elastic material layer and is capable of resuming the original shape after being deformed.
US08714487B2	Cockpit window of aircraft having electromagnetic shield, and aircraft There is provided a cockpit window of an aircraft and the aircraft in which an electromagnetic shield film for preventing electromagnetic noise can be reliably and easily provided at low cost. An electromagnetic shield film is provided to a window part, and a conductive film is provided between the electromagnetic shield film and an outer retainer made of a conductive material. The conductive film is connected to the electromagnetic shield film via a connecting member is provided so as to be led to an outer perimeter side of the window part along an outer perimeter part of the window part, and is electrically connected to the outer retainer. With this configuration, a film made of a conductive material is formed without a gap at a joint portion between the window part and the outer retainer. Also, the conductive film is assumed to have flexibility.
US08714486B2	Hybrid frame co-mold manufacture A hybrid frame is fabricated by initially forming a stack of fibrous layers in an annular pattern. An annular metal trim is separately formed to conform with the annular pattern. The trim is trapped in a lower mold having a complementary lower mold channel. The stacked layers are trapped atop the trim in the lower mold channel. An upper mold is pressed atop the stacked layers for compression co-molding together in the lower mold the stacked layers and trim to co-form the hybrid frame.
US08714485B2	Method of fabricating a hat stringer A structure may comprise a skin member and a hat stringer. The hat stringer may include a base portion and first and second webs extending outwardly from the base portion. Each one of the first and second webs may be comprised of a wrap laminate having wrap plies and a cover laminate having cover plies. The first and second webs may be interconnected by a cap. The hat stringer and skin member may be co-cured.
US08714483B2	Decompression device and decompression system A decompression device is provided having a frame element, in which at least one decompression opening is formed, and a cover is fastenable by means of a fastening device to the frame element in order in a first position to close the decompression opening formed in the frame element. The fastening device includes at least one holding clip and at least one receiving device that is complementary to the holding clip. The holding clip and the receiving device complementary to the holding clip are situated in engagement with one another when the cover is situated in its first position and are adapted to move out of engagement when a predetermined differential pressure acts upon the cover in order to enable the cover to move relative to the frame element into a second position, in which the cover releases the decompression opening formed in the frame element.
US08714480B2	Rotary wing aircraft provided with an emergency undercarriage A rotary wing aircraft (1) provided with an emergency undercarriage (10) for mitigating a failure of a basic undercarriage (2) of the rotary wing aircraft (1). Said emergency undercarriage comprises a main member (20) that extends from a first end (21) to a second end (22), said emergency undercarriage (10) having deployment means (30) for deploying the main member (20) out from a housing (3) in order to take over from a basic undercarriage (2) of a rotary wing aircraft (1) in the event of a failure, said emergency undercarriage (10) being provided with holder means (40) for holding it in position to block said main member (20) when said main member (20) is deployed out from said housing (3).
US08714478B2	Assembly comprising a gas turbine engine and a supporting pylon A gas turbine engine is supported on an aircraft fuselage by a pylon which carries a mounting ring. The mounting ring is releasably coupled to an engine ring on the casing of the engine, centered on the engine axis. A further member extends from the pylon and is secured to a location on the engine which is axially spaced from the mounting ring. The arrangement enables the engine to be on the pylon in different orientations, to suit different mounting configurations on the aircraft.
US08714477B2	Turbomachine support pylon for aircraft An aircraft support pylon designed to attach a turbomachine housed in a nacelle to an aircraft fuselage is disclosed. The pylon includes a cooler, located substantially in the vicinity of a leading edge of the pylon, and able to be heated by a hot fluid, the hot fluid intended to be cooled by heat exchange with cold air outside the cooler. The pylon also includes at least one air evacuation duct, at the exit from the cooler and extending longitudinally in an internal volume of the pylon to a trailing edge of the pylon.
US08714476B2	Aircraft wing with flexible skins A wing includes a spar, and a pair of flexible skins that are attached to the spar. The spar is at the leading edge of the wing, and the skins extend toward the trailing edge of the wing. The wing deploys from a stowed condition, in which the skins are curved in the same direction around a fuselage of an aircraft, to a deployed condition, in which the skins provide the wing with an airfoil cross-sectional shape, for example with the skins curve in opposite direction. A lock is used to maintain the skins in the deployed state, with the lock for example located at the trailing edge of the wing. The lock may be a mechanical mechanism that automatically locks the wing in the deployed state, preventing the wing from returning to the stowed state.
US08714468B2	Plastic scrap crushing apparatus The plastic scrap extruding apparatus has a simple structure and is capable of suitably crushing plastic scraps and sending them to a heating cylinder 10. The extruding apparatus comprises: a housing 12 holding a rear part of the heating cylinder 10 and having a material inlet 13; a large rotary blade 20 for crushing the plastic materials and rotatable with a screw 11; small rotary blades 21, 22 being located on the axially front and rear sides of the large rotary blade 20 and rotatable with the large rotary blade 20; and a fixed blade 30 being fixed to the housing 12 and capable of working with the rotary blades. A large rotary blade 20 passable groove 40, through which the large rotary blade 20 can be rotated, is formed in a lower part of the housing 12.
US08714467B2	Dryer/grinder A grinder/dryer having a plurality of beater blades carried on a rotating shaft in a cylindrical housing, including one or a plurality of grinding members on the cylindrical side wall. The grinding members are adjustably positioned at different locations within the cylinder. The grinding members may be provided in a variety of different combination of elevated ridges and/or valleys used to dry and classify materials.
US08714465B2	Valve for atomizing a fluid A valve for atomizing fluid is specified, in particular an injection or metering valve for fuel injection or exhaust-gas systems of motor vehicles, which valve has a valve seat body (11) with a valve seat (14) which surrounds a valve opening (13), a perforated injection disc (17) which bears against the front side of the valve seat body (12) downstream of the valve opening (13) and has at least one spray hole (18) which is offset radially with respect to the valve opening (13), and an inflow cavity (19) which is present between the valve opening (13) and the at least one spray hole (18). For the inexpensive and reproducible production of a stable, corrosion-resistant perforated injection disc (18) with improved atomization of the ejected fluid, the inflow cavity (19) is formed by at least one depression (20) which is made in that disc face of the perforated injection disc (17) which faces the valve seat body (12), in such a way that part of the depression (20) protrudes into the valve opening (13) and the remaining part of the depression (20) is covered by the valve seat body (12). The at least one spray hole (18) is made in that part of the depression (20) which is covered by the valve seat body (12), close to the depression wall, which faces away from the valve opening (13), into the bottom (201) of the depression (20).
US08714461B2	Enhancing insulating properties at higher temperature utilizing soft seals Devices utilized to enhance insulating properties at high temperatures. Such devices can include two gas compartments. A main gas compartment can function as a main layer and generally contains a layer of a gas (e.g., Xenon) having a relatively small thermal conductivity. The plates of the main gas layer can be separated by a soft seal, so that the main gas does not leak and the main layer expands easily. A second gas compartment can be configured as a vented compartment filled with air. At high temperatures, the main gas expands while the secondary gas volume shrinks. Since the main gas possesses a lower thermal conductivity, the effective resistance of the device increases, causing an enhancement in the insulating properties at large operating temperatures. A series of gas compartments can be utilized for additional enhancement in insulating properties.
US08714458B2	High-reliability product/activity tracking system Disclosed herein is a tracking system configured to track a product and/or an activity. The tracking system comprises a tracing device and a verification server. The tracing device is coupled with the verification server by means of communication means configured to allow exchange of data between the tracing device and the verification server. The tracing device is coupled with a first satellite localization receiver which is configured to receive signals from a satellite localization system, process the received signals to obtain satellite localization observables, and compute locations based on the satellite localization observables. The tracing device is configured to acquire from the first satellite localization receiver positioning data. The tracing device is further configured to provide the verification server with the positioning data and the satellite localization observable acquired from the satellite localization receiver. The verification server is configured to perform a location consistency check.
US08714452B2	System for dispensing wristbands with unique indicia A locker system includes one or more banks of electronic lockers. Each locker has a door lock that releasably retains the door in the closed position. The locker system also includes at least one barcode scanner selectively unlocks the door of at least one of the lockers. A locker manager is coupled to each of the electronic lockers via an electronic network. The locker manager stores a list of unique barcodes that are each associated with a locker rental plan including at least one locker account. Each locker account includes an activation indication, a use indication, a locker type indication, and a duration. The unique barcodes are printed or otherwise included on wristbands, which may be scanned at the barcode scanner to gain access to one or more of the lockers.
US08714448B2	Device for handling banknotes comprising a height adjustable user interface The invention relates to a device (10) for handling banknotes that comprises a display unit (20) with a display surface (22) for displaying at least one graphic user interface (28) to a user of the device (10). The user interface (28) is only displayed in a portion (32 to 36) of the display surface (22), whereas this portion (32 to 36) is adjustable depending on the position of the user relative to the display surface (22).
US08714446B2	Automated banking machine with improved security An automated banking machine is operative to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records, such as user cards. The machine includes a reader device operative to read data usable to identify a financial account authorized for use in conducting a transaction through the machine. An authorized machine user is able to use the machine to perform transactions, including financial transfers, cash dispensing, and other actions associated with financial accounts. The machine includes a safe having two sections separated by a shared wall structure. A cash handling arrangement is operative to transport cash between the two sections through a slot in the wall structure.
US08714445B1	Secured and unsecured cash transfer system and method A method of conveying monetary value between at least two parties, may utilize a computer system or a vending machine. A first party requests an amount of monetary value to be in one or more desired incremental monetary amounts, and provides a payment. A system administrator requests a personal identification number (PIN), which is associated, within an administrator database, with a Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) that is located on one or more QwikCash tickets, which are thereby activated, and thereafter issued to the first party. The GUID is machine scannable, and each QwikCash ticket may comprise a textual reference denoting its incremental monetary amount, and a textual reference identifying issuance of the PIN. The first party may use the PIN and remit the QwikCash ticket: to a second party, as a person-to-person monetary transfer; to a merchant for making a purchase; or to a bank ATM in exchange for cash.
US08714441B2	Systems and apparatus for expressing multimedia presentations corresponding to print media A media asset system and method is provided comprising a handheld reader having a sensor enabled to detect a discrete coded zone within a visual image, with the reader capable of producing an output signal corresponding to the discrete coded zone. An output device responds to the output signal with an audio output presentation corresponding to the discrete coded zone. Output is responsive to the reader's selection of output action, and may also be provided for in a video presentation.
US08714436B2	Tray, the rigidity of which is improved, for transporting and displaying items such as yogurt containers The invention relates to a tray for transporting and displaying items such as yogurt containers. The tray is of the type comprising a bottom wall (1), side walls (2, 3, 4, 5) perpendicular to the bottom (1) and side flaps (27) enabling the attachment of a first wall (2, 4) to the adjacent wall (3, 5), each flap being hingedly connected to the side edge of the first wall (2, 4) and attached to the following wall (3, 5). According to the invention, the hinged connection of the side flap (27) to the first wall is provided by an interface area (16) in the shape of a triangle the apex (17) of which points toward the free upper edge (31, 32) of the two consecutive side walls (2, 3, 4, 5) and the base (18) of which rests on the bottom wall (1), this triangular interface area (16) being slanted from its base (18) to the apex (17) toward the outside of the outline defined by the bottom wall (1). The invention can be used for trays for transporting products such as yogurt containers.
US08714431B2	Friction stir welding tool A friction welding tool having a pin and a clamping device with a counter bearing, a holddown element and a spring element. The pin has a coupling section for releasable, rotationally fixed coupling to a rotating output device of a machine tool. The counter bearing is held on the pin between the pin's coupling and engagement ends in a manner that allows the counter bearing to be axially immovable on but freely rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the pin. The holddown element surrounds the pin and is arranged on a side of the counter bearing facing the engagement end. The holddown element has a bearing surface for bearing on the workpiece arrangement. The spring element is provided between the holddown element and the counter bearing and is mounted on the pin in such a way that it is elastically slidable along the longitudinal axis of the pin.
US08714429B2	Dissecting tip for surgical stapler The present invention relates to a dissecting tip for use in a surgical stapler or instrument.
US08714427B2	Surgical rod scorer and method of use of the same A surgical rod scorer is provided. The surgical rod scorer includes a handle having an elongated shaft extending therefrom defining a longitudinal axis therethrough. A knob supported on a proximal end of the handle is movable about the longitudinal axis. A reciprocating member is operably disposed and translatable within the handle and the shaft of the surgical rod scorer. A drive member operably coupled to the proximal end of the reciprocating member and to the knob is configured to translate the reciprocating member along the longitudinal axis. The shaft and the reciprocating member including a respective distal end and operable head configured to support one or more cutting elements thereon. The reciprocating member including the one or more cutting elements supported thereon is translatable from a retracted position, to an extended position for scoring surgical rod.
US08714414B2	Ice transfer device An ice-containing member having a plurality of interior chambers separated by substantially radially-extending chamber walls. A base is disposed below the ice-containing member and includes an ice-dispensing aperture. A lid is adjacent to the ice-containing member and operable between a first position. The lid is in abutting contact with the ice-containing member and a second position. The lid is spaced a predetermined distance from the housing.
US08714412B2	Fluid dispenser having a retractable head A fluid product dispenser includes: a tubular body extending along a main axis; a male element, able to slide inside the tubular body; a volume for receiving the product, located inside the male element; a plate molding an external side surface of the tubular body, the plate being provided with at least one projection able to slide in a slit in the tubular body, substantially parallel to the main axis, the projection being able to move the male element in the tubular body, the dispenser including an element for locking the plate on the tubular body in at least two locking positions along the main axis. Thus, a dispensing head, firmly fixed to the male element, can be extracted or retracted by making the plate slide along the tubular body.
US08714410B2	Dispenser with aligned spinner motor and valve assembly for dispensing flowable product A dispenser (20) for consumable products uses a single motor (40) to both drive a spinner (75) to mix the product and move a valve assembly (42) to open and close the dispenser (20). The valve assembly (42), which is axially aligned with the motor shaft (44) may be opened and closed by fixing an externally threaded shaft (46) on a drive shaft (44) extending from the motor (40) and then rotatably mounting an internally threaded flywheel (50) on the threaded shaft (46). A valve stem (64) may then be fixedly attached to the flywheel (50). When the motor (40) energizes, the flywheel (50) and valve stem (64) axially translate along the nut (46) to open the valve assembly (42). When the motor (40) de-energizes, the flywheel (50) and valve stem (64) axially translate along the nut (46) in an opposite direction to close the valve assembly (42).
US08714407B2	Device for dispensing material from a deformable tube Devices for dispensing material from a deformable tube comprise a shell having a top portion and a bottom portion. The shell comprises two shell pieces, the shell defining a compartment adapted for receiving a deformable tube and having an aperture in its top portion. Each shell piece comprises a press portion having a groove surrounding the press portion and a hinge located in the bottom portion connecting the press portion to the shell piece. The inner surfaces of the press portions have pressing features configured to squeeze a deformable tube from the bottom of the tube to the top of the tube.
US08714405B2	Device for staging and dispensing tablets useful in system and method for dispensing prescriptions A chute assembly for an object dispensing apparatus includes: a chute configured at a first end to attach to and convey objects from an object dispenser; a funnel having an inlet that merges with a second end of the chute and an outlet; a door attached to the funnel, the door being movable between a closed position, in which the door covers the funnel outlet and prevents access to objects within the funnel, and an open position, in which the door does not cover the funnel outlet and allows access to objects within the funnel; an object agitation unit configured to agitate objects in the funnel to prevent such objects from jamming in the funnel; and a locking unit associated with the door that prevents the door from moving to the open position without authorization.
US08714404B2	Refuse container A refuse container has a bin defining a cavity and a lid selectively inhibiting access to the cavity. A pair of opposing brackets is located below the lid. The brackets are in laterally spaced relationship such that a space is located between portions of the brackets. Each bracket has opposing inner and outer face portions with an interior gap formed between therebetween. The interior gap is fluidly isolated from the cavity. A rib is located within the interior gaps such that each rib extends inwardly relative to the space between the brackets. A retention bar is coupled to each bracket and spans the space from one bracket to the other bracket wherein opposing ends of the retention bar extend into the interior gap of each bracket, and an exposed portion of the retention bar spans the space between the brackets. The end portions of the retention bar abut the ribs.
US08714402B2	Thermoformed container assembly for food products An assembly for forming a container that contains food product and including a thermoformed sleeve and a base. The sleeve includes a frustoconical side wall, an upper lip, and a lower lip. The side wall defines an inner surface, an outer surface, and a plurality of circumferentially-spaced handling features including an outer surface indentation and a corresponding inner surface protrusion. The upper lip projects generally radially inwardly from an upper end of the sleeve and the lower lip projects generally radially outwardly from the lower end. The base is formed apart from the sleeve, and is assembleable to the lower end for closing off the lower opening. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of handling features are wedge-shaped. In yet other embodiments, the base is a thermoformed part, and is ultrasonically welded to the lower lip.
US08714397B2	Electrical offset A frame assembly for anchoring a containment box with a top opening in a surrounding driveway surface and for removably attaching one of a plurality of different product dispensers to the containment box. The frame assembly includes an anchor frame attached to the top opening of the containment box wherein the anchor frame is configured to be removably attached to any one of a plurality of different dispenser frames and a dispenser frame removably attached to the anchor frame, the dispenser frame including a plurality of frame walls having a frame area larger than an area of the top opening of the containment box such that the frame walls define an offset opening adjacent to the top opening of the containment box, wherein the dispenser frame is adapted to be mounted to one of the plurality of different product dispensers.
US08714392B2	Lid for use in ion beam assisted deposition A lid includes a first surface defining a cavity, a first joint defining an inlet, a second joint defining an outlet, a center hole communicating with the inlet, a circular channel communicating with the outlet and extending along a periphery of the first surface, and a number of branch channels radially extending from the center hole to the circular channel. The first surface includes a screen plate retained within the cavity, capable of letting the side-effect particles adhere thereon. Each of the plurality of branch channels communicates with the center hole and the circular channel, allowing liquid of a predetermined temperature to circulate within the lid.
US08714388B2	Collapsible rectangular container A collapsible rectangular container includes a container body having a pair of opposed solid side walls, a pair of opposed foldable side walls hingedly connected to the pair of solid side walls and a base end wall and a top end wall removably and slidably connected to ends of the pairs of solid and foldable side walls when the container body is in an erected position. The base and top end walls are removable from the ends of the container body to permit the body to be collapsed into a flat configuration by folding the side walls inwardly when the base and top end walls are removed. The end walls are slidably received on one of the solid side walls when the container body is in a collapsed position. When the containers are collapsed and/or erected, the containers interlock for shipment.
US08714387B2	Transport package A package has two complementary casing-parts (102,103) having a central, outwards-extending depression (106,107) for accommodating opposite sides of a container C. One of the casing-parts (102) is lined with a super-absorbent material lining (108). The depression in each casing-part is surrounded by a respective surround (109, 110). The surrounds have margins (112,114), which are stepped in the opposite direction from the depressions, i.e. inwards of the closed condition of the package. With the interposition of the lining (108), the margins abut when the casing-parts are closed together.
US08714386B2	Bottle container with handle The invention relates to a bottle body and a handle member mounted on the bottle body. A mounting projecting portion forming a polygonal cross-sectional shape projects from the bottle body, and the handle member is provided with a mounting hole forming a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape into which the mounting projecting portion is inserted. The handle member is mounted on the bottle body such that four side portions of the mounting hole are brought into pressure contact with a pair of lateral pressure-contacting portions and a pair of axial pressure-contacting portions on the outer peripheral edge of the polygonal cross-sectional shape by inserting the mounting projecting portion into the mounting hole, and then relatively rotating the bottle body and the handle member. Accordingly, a bottle container with a handle having simple structure and capable of firmly fixing the bottle body and the handle member to each other can be provided.
US08714385B2	Glass bottle for containing liquid Disclosed is a bottle for containing liquid content including a body portion, at least part or the entire portion of an upper portion of which is provided with a plurality of guides which protrudes inward from an inside surface thereof and is in a spiral pattern so that the liquid content can be guided towards an opening of a neck portion of the bottle while spirally revolving inside the bottle.
US08714383B2	Compound bung for wine and spirits barrels Compound bung-type stopper assemblies for wine and spirits barrels, comprising a body having an enlarged head portion, a reduced, tapered neck portion and a tapered, disposable elastomeric cup that snugly fits over the neck. The taper permits the inventive compound bung to be universal in fit and the elastomeric material of the cup grippingly conforms to bunghole irregularities. The body can be re-used with multiple cups, each being dedicated to a different wine or spirit, or after the cup has worn out. Body materials are selected from any essentially low- or non-resilient material, including glass, hard plastic (such as polycarbonate), wood, metal or ceramic, and may be colored. The head may be domed or flat, and may be decorated, as by etching, embossing or painting with the winemakers or winery mark. The inventive compound bungs/bodies that are identified by such marks may be sold as collectibles or as commemorative devices.
US08714381B2	Closure device for a reagent container A closure device including a first and second closure element, the first closure element, which has an opening, being mounted on the opening of a container to be closed and the second closure element being movably connectable to the first closure element, the first closure element of the device having on the bottom surface facing the container a raised edge, which encircles the opening and has a sharp-edged region and a blunt region.
US08714378B2	Coupler knuckle system and method A method for manufacturing a railcar coupler knuckle includes providing a first mold section having internal walls defining at least in part perimeter boundaries of a first coupler knuckle mold cavity. The method includes providing a second mold section having internal walls defining at least in part perimeter boundaries of a second coupler knuckle mold cavity. The second coupler mold cavity of the second mold section is offset from the first coupler mold cavity of the first mold section. The method includes closing the first and second mold sections and at least partially filling the first and second coupler knuckle mold cavities with a molten alloy, the molten alloy solidifying after filling to form the coupler knuckle.
US08714375B2	Auto-rack railroad car vehicle wheel chock hanger A vehicle wheel chock hanger for a vehicle restraint system for an auto-rack railroad car that is configured to hold various different chocks that are configured to secure vehicles in auto-rack railroad cars.
US08714374B2	Container mounting system The invention relates to a bracket for mounting a container to a slotwall. The bracket comprises a base connected with a wire frame having an upper and lower element. The lower element provides support for the bottom of the container and the upper element may act as a lateral stop for the container. According to another embodiment of the invention, the wire frame may be rotatably coupled with the base such that the orientation of the wire frame relative to a vertical axis may be selectively adjusted.
US08714369B2	Furniture display rack A furniture display rack aims to hold at least one set of outdoor furniture which includes a table, at least one chair and a parasol. The furniture display rack comprises a first rack, a second rack connected to one end of the first rack and a support rack. The first rack includes a first retaining bar and a first holding space between two ends of the first retaining bar to hold the table. The first retaining bar has an insertion portion insertable by the parasol and two first retaining portions at two ends thereof leaned by the table. The second rack includes a pair of base beams respectively connected to one end of a support post and a second holding space between the two base beams to hold the chair. The furniture display rack thus formed can hold and display the furniture in smaller display space.
US08714367B2	Desktop organizer An organizer for a desk or other surface. In one aspect, the invention can be an organizer for a surface including: an elongated base assembly including a clamping member and a cover member for attaching to the surface; at least one fastening device for attaching the clamping member to the surface and for attaching the cover member to the clamping member; a pair of vertical supports attached to the cover member by the fastening device; and a plurality of horizontal rods extending between the pair of vertical supports.
US08714362B2	Sorting apparatus A sorting apparatus is described, and which includes a conveyor which transports a produce stream for inspection. The conveyor has various regions formed in part of ridges, troughs and apertures which reduce the weight of the produce stream, as well as reduces the vertical and horizontal components of motion of the produce stream, as the produce stream progresses from one end to the other.
US08714360B2	Tissue processing device with ultrasonic tissue particle separator A device is operable to separate tissue particles. The device comprises a reservoir and an ultrasonic transducer. The reservoir is configured to receive tissue particles in a fluid. The ultrasonic transducer is operable to emit ultrasonic energy toward tissue particles in the reservoir. Control circuitry is configured to drive the ultrasonic transducer at parameters selected to provide movement of tissue particles in the first reservoir based on the size of the tissue particles. The ultrasonic transducer may thus drive the tissue particles toward respective outlets or at particular times based on their particle size. An electrically driven screen may be used to separate tissue particles from liquid. An ultrasonic mincing device may be used to mince tissue particles whose size exceeds a predetermined size range.
US08714357B2	Packaging system A packaging system includes a retention frame and a tray. The retention frame includes a panel and a retention sheet. The panel has a first fold line defining a first flap and a remainder portion. The remainder portion defines a panel opening. The retention sheet is attached to the first flap and the remainder portion so that the retention sheet extends over the panel opening and the first fold line. The tray includes a tray frame defining a tray opening. A tray sheet is attached to the tray frame and extends over the tray opening. The tray is configured for positioning between the retention sheet and the remainder portion of the retention frame to juxtapose the tray opening with the panel opening. A product may be supported on the tray sheet to suspend and retain the product between the retention sheet and the tray sheet over the juxtaposed tray and panel openings.
US08714350B2	Garment bag systems and methods of use The present invention includes methods and apparatus in which a reusable bag is provided for the collection and return of soiled garments, laundry and/or other clothing items. The bag may be provided in the form of a hamper that is open at the top, with one or more hooks that allow the bag to be hung from a clothing rod, and is provided with engagement devices that allow the bag to be folded up when not in use, and then unfolded to various levels for containment and protection of clean items that have been hung on standard hangers. In some embodiments, garment protection flaps and a detachable accessory bag are provided inside the bag. In other embodiments, convenient handles are provided as part of the hangers which support the bags, the handles being positioned to balance the bag when it is being carried to avoid spilling the contents thereof, the bags having special flaps for engaging the hangers having the handles.
US08714349B2	Device for the disposal of consumed chewing gum A mechanical device for the disposal of consumed chewing gum includes a base having a recessed flanged collar at its top to accommodate a cap. The device further includes a rubber gasket, optional securing clips, a plug on the underside of the base, a paper tray, a locking insert, and a dispensing paper pack. The cap is fitted to the base by placing, snapping, or screwing the cap over the recessed flanged collar on the base. The cap has an opening traversing its top to allow the withdrawal of a single paper sheet to wrap consumed chewing gum for disposal. The paper tray is attached to the inside bottom portion of the cap. A gasket is mounted to the top inside portion of the base below the flanged collar for disposal of gum into the base cavity. The case can be emptied by removing the plug on the underside of the base.
US08714347B2	Electronic device case with retractable stand A case for an electronic device with a retractable stand may support the case for an inserted electronic device when disposed in a horizontal and/or vertical position. The case may be transitioned from the horizontal and/or vertical disposition and vise-versa without changing the relative positions of the case and the stand to one another.
US08714345B2	Looped material band provided with a splice A looped material band (100) which includes at least one flat strip (2) having two reversible splice areas (3) in which the serrations (3a, 3b) only extend along a part of its width so that, when the material band is assembled in a loop around two pulleys (10a, 10b), the strands of the material band, which extend respectively between the two pulleys, are continuous and without any splice at least along a portion (9) of their width, regardless of the rotational position of the looped material band.
US08714344B2	Apparatus for recollecting residual commodity from a fill hopper of an air seeder filling system A hopper of a commodity conveyor apparatus for use with an agricultural implement has a bin configured to hold a volume of a granular commodity. The bin is movable between a first position at which the bin can be loaded with the granular commodity and a second position at which residual granular commodity can be recovered from the bin. The hopper further has a fill opening formed in the bin and adapted for loading the granular commodity into the bin when the bin is in the first position. A discharge opening is configured to be flow-coupled to the commodity conveyor apparatus and a container is removably attached to the bin for recovering the residual granular commodity from the bin when the bin is in the second position.
US08714339B2	Method and device for transferring printed products A device and a method for transferring printed products conveyed in a stream of individual products from a feed unit to a removal unit makes it possible to divert the printed products from a feed direction to a removal direction. The feed unit includes a first conveyor and a transfer region, and the removal unit includes a takeover region with a support surface for the printed products. The transfer region is located higher than the takeover region. The removal unit of the device includes at least a second conveyor which forms the support surface. A pressing element is arranged above the support surface which can be lowered toward the support surface or toward a printed product moving in the direction of the support surface. The pressing element can be lifted up from the support surface or a printed product positioned thereon.
US08714334B2	Extendable conveyor with multifunctional user interface section An extendable boom loader and system. The extendable boom loader includes a distal boom element and a package tray. The boom element includes a package stop that moves to a first position blocking passage of packages and a second position allowing passage of packages, and a securing mechanism that holds the package stop in the first position. The package tray moves to first and second positions, respectively retracted within and extending from the boom element. The tray includes a tray package stop apparatus that prevents packages from sliding off a distal end of the tray. The distal boom element further includes a drawer unit that moves to first and second positions, respectively retracted within and extending from the tray. The drawer unit is configured to pivot down, while in its second position, to reach a floor of a container being loaded using the extendable boom loader.
US08714333B2	Friction plate and wet-type multi-plate clutch having such friction plate The present invention provides a friction plate having a friction surface formed by sticking an annular friction material to a substantially annular core plate and wherein the friction surface is provided with a first oil groove having an opening portion opened to an inner peripheral edge of the friction plate and an end terminating at a point between the inner peripheral edge and an outer peripheral edge, and a second oil groove having an opening portion opened to the outer peripheral edge of the friction plate and an end terminating at a point between the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge.
US08714322B2	Hydraulic brake mechanism A hydraulic brake mechanism is described including a housing. A master cylinder assembly is disposed within the housing, and the master cylinder assembly includes a fluid chamber. The fluid chamber includes a first chamber portion having a first diameter and a second chamber portion having a second diameter, with the first diameter greater than the second diameter. The fluid chamber includes a transition region between the first and second chamber portions. The mechanism includes a piston assembly having a piston disposed within the fluid chamber. A first seal is configured to sealingly engage between the first chamber portion and the piston, and a second seal is configured to sealingly engage between the second chamber portion and the piston. The mechanism includes an outlet port extending from the fluid chamber from or adjacent the transition region.
US08714321B2	Long travel shock absorber One example embodiment includes a fluid based shock absorber. The fluid based shock absorber includes a first assembly. The first assembly includes a first compression chamber. The first assembly also includes a first sliding member. At least a portion of the first sliding member is configured to remain within the first compression chamber and the first sliding member is configured to move in a first direction relative to the first compression chamber.
US08714319B2	Disk brake A shim plate is provided at the rear side of a friction pad to abut annular contact parts of pistons. The shim plate is provided with first and second one-side cut portions and at a position corresponding to the annular contact part of a disk rotational entrance-side piston, for example, so that the area of contact between the shim plate and the annular contact part is larger at the disk rotational exit side than at the disk rotational entrance side. The first and second one-side cut portions and have four contact ends at which the peripheries of the cut portions and the annular contact part intersect each other. At least two of the four contact ends are provided on the disk rotational entrance side with respect to the diametrical center of the piston.
US08714316B2	Electric brake device An electric brake device includes a brake pad, an axial force sensor and a controller. The brake pad is pressed against a rotation face of a brake rotor in a direction perpendicular to the rotation face. The axial force sensor detects a pressure of the brake pad. The controller performs a speed reduction control which is an operation target, based on at least one of the pressure of the brake pad and a reduced speed obtained from a wheel speed sensor.
US08714310B2	Axle cooling using hydraulic return oil A work vehicle includes a frame and an axle assembly coupled to the frame, including a first axle shaft and coil substantially disposed in an axle housing. A first wheel couples to the first axle shaft of the axle assembly. An axle lubricating fluid is disposed within the axle housing. A cooling circuit fluidly coupled to the axle assembly circulates cooling fluid therethrough. The coil conducts cooling fluid through the first axle housing separately from the lubricating fluid. A cooling fluid circuit is selectively fluidly coupled to the first coil to circulate the cooling fluid therethrough.
US08714306B2	Perimetric protection system for buildings undergoing construction The present disclosure relates to a perimetric protection system for buildings undergoing construction including at least two masts (1) spaced from one another and each formed by two vertical U-profiles (1); a horizontal platform (3) supported on at least two horizontal beams (300) attached to the masts by means of first attachment elements or anchors (130). The system further comprises: at least two inclined beams (100) parallel to one another, which are attached: to the masts (1) by means of at least two second attachment elements (110) forming a first angle (α); to the horizontal beams (300) by means of at least two third attachment elements (310) forming a second angle (β); and, the at least two inclined beams (100) having a free end (100a) in the third attachment elements (310), such that their height is greater than the height of the horizontal platform (2); an inclined protective panel (120) attached to said at least two inclined beams (100).
US08714304B2	Soundproofing plate and soundproofing device permitting air flow A soundproofing plate comprising a substrate having a substrate having at least one through hole formed therein; and a soundproofing device mounted on the through hole of the substrate. The soundproofing device has a multiplex structure having at least a first structure and a second structure nested therein. The first structure comprises a through hole (“first air passage hole”) disposed in the center and communicating with the through hole of the substrate, and a first sound collecting portion disposed at both ends or one end and having a larger size than the aperture area of the first air passage hole, and being arranged so as to reflect incident noise. The second structure comprises a through hole (“second air passage hole”) disposed in the center and communicating with the through hole of the substrate, and a second sound collecting portion disposed at both ends or one end and having a larger size than the aperture area of the second air passage hole, and being arranged so as to reflect incident noise.
US08714303B2	Acoustic structure An acoustic structure (e.g. an acoustic tuning panel) includes a plurality of boards and a plurality of resonance tubes with a plurality of openings. The openings are formed at different positions on the side faces of the resonance tubes. One resonance tube may be interposed in and supported by a pair of boards, or one board may be interposed in and supported by a pair of resonance tubes. The resonance tubes are mutually movable in the axial direction so as to independently adjust the opening area of the opening of the resonance tube. With this behavior, it is possible to adjust a ratio of the opening area of the resonance tube to the sectional area of the internal cavity of the resonance tube, thus adjusting the bandwidth of a band causing a sound-absorbing effect and a sound-scattering effect in an acoustic space (e.g. a sound chamber).
US08714300B2	Silencer for a firearm A silencer for a firearm has a substantially cylindrical external housing with an attachment part, an intermediate part with a number of elements, and an outer muzzle part. The silencer can be releasably connected to an attachment element mounted on the barrel of a firearm. The silencer's attachment part is provided with a number of cut-outs round its circumference. The cut-outs are composed of a first portion extending longitudinally and a second portion extending over the circumference of the attachment part. The two portions are connected by an intermediate portion. In the first portion, at least one of the cut-outs will be provided with at least one bead and at least one slot is provided adjacent to the first portion extending over the circumference of the attachment part.
US08714299B2	Acoustic isolation mechanism A rigid removable case for a portable electronic device may have an acoustic isolation mechanism between the rigid removable case and an acoustic component on the electronic device. The acoustic isolation mechanism may be a compressible component that may provide an air seal between an interior surface of the removable case and an exterior surface of the electronic device. The acoustic isolation mechanism may be constructed of several different materials and several different manufacturing processes.
US08714296B2	Vehicle input device In a vehicle input device having a position detection portion configured to output a detection signal and a controller (control section) configured to receive the detection signal, the position detection portion operated by a driver is provided near an end side of the vehicle input device, and a contact operation surface on which the driver performs a contact operation is an end surface of an operation member of the position detection portion. Thus, the driver is capable of operating the vehicle input device with a finger while holding a steering wheel. In addition, by the controller determining the position of an operation of the driver on the basis of the detection signal from the position detection portion, it is made possible to detect various operations and various devices can be operated.
US08714295B2	Internal combustion engine and vehicle packaging for same A motor vehicle has an internal combustion engine mounted in a central tunnel of the vehicle floor pan. The internal combustion engine comprises an engine block assembly having a lower end closed by an oil pan and an upper end extending at an angle α from a rear of the engine block assembly to a front thereof. An engine block closes the upper end and defines a crankcase that is configured to house a crankshaft for rotation therein. A cylinder housing assembly is reclined from vertical, towards the rear of the engine block, about an axis of the crankshaft by an angle β. At least a portion of the cylinder housing assembly and the crankcase are disposed in the central tunnel of the vehicle floor pan.
US08714292B1	Motorized wheeled chair assembly A motorized wheeled chair assembly facilitates movement by a person while seated on a chair. The assembly includes a frame and a plurality of wheels coupled to the frame. A seat and a motor are coupled to the frame. The motor is operationally coupled to one of the wheels defining a motorized wheel wherein the motor rotates the motorized wheel. A handle is coupled to the frame by an arm having a first end coupled to the handle and a second end removably coupled to the frame. A motor control is coupled to the handle and operationally coupled to the motor.
US08714289B2	Electric vehicle A utility vehicle is disclosed having an electric drive. The drivetrain is comprised of batteries, a motor, a transaxle driven by the motor, a rear differential driven by the transaxle, and a prop shaft which is driven by the transaxle and drives a front differential. The batteries are provided in two groups and are supported on the frame of the vehicle.
US08714285B2	Method for drilling with a fixed bladed bit A downhole fixed bladed bit comprises a working surface comprising a plurality of blades converging at a center of the working surface and diverging towards a gauge of the bit, at least one blade comprising a cutting element comprising a superhard material bonded to a cemented metal carbide substrate at a non-planer interface, the cutting element being positioned at a positive rake angle, and the superhard material comprising a substantially conical geometry with an apex comprising a curvature.
US08714284B2	Weight-on-bit drill sub An apparatus and method for producing pressure signals which indicate when weight-on-bit, during the drilling of a wellbore, exceed a predetermined, upper limit. The apparatus includes a first mandrel and a second mandrel that inserts into and is axially moveable within the first mandrel. The position of the second mandrel may be dependent upon the balance of a biasing member's biasing strength and the weight-on-bit exerted on the drill bit. If weight-on-bit values overcome the biasing strength of the biasing member, the second mandrel may move uphole within the first mandrel and create a pressure signal that is detectable at surface so that the operator is made aware that weight-on-bit values exceed the upper limit.
US08714282B2	Hand-held power tool A hand-held power tool is disclosed. The power tool has a tool receptacle for holding a tool along an axis. A housing has a grip area for a first hand. The grip area has a support section for the thumb and index finger in a plane with the axis and a shaft section for gripping around on one side of the plane. A contact surface for a second hand, which is arranged facing away from the tool receptacle and on another side of the plane, is inclined between 80 degrees and 100 degrees to the plane.
US08714281B2	Bidirectional cross airflow machine tool A bidirectional cross airflow machine tool includes a housing chamber to hold a tool spindle and air inlets and air outlets at two sides thereof. The tool spindle is coupled with a balance weight member which includes a first balance weight portion and a second balance weight portion arranged in an up and down fashion so that the tool spindle generates eccentric rotation against the machine tool. The first and second balance weight portions respectively have a first vane set and a second vane set. The first vane set sucks air via the air inlets at one side of the machine tool during rotation of the tool spindle. The air is transmitted from the first vane set to the first and second balance weight portions, and then is discharged via the second vane set through the air outlets at another side of the machine tool to form cross cooling airflow.
US08714277B2	Tool for engagement in the ground Tool (1) for engagement in the ground including a holding portion (9) for turning of the tool around an axis of rotation (3), wherein an engagement portion (2) has a plurality of cutting blades (4) extending in directions from the holding portion (9) and being distributed around the axis of rotation (3) for pressing down into and engagement with the ground, said cutting blades each having a proximal end (5) and a distal free end (6). The cutting blades (4) have a respective front edge (7), for cutting action against the ground and a respective rear edge (8), wherein points on the front edges (7) are positioned at a greater distance from the axis of rotation (3) than points on the rear edges (8), and the cutting blades (4) are angled such that a distal portion of each rear edge is positioned in front of as seen in the turning direction (v), and essentially at the same distance from the axis of rotation (3) as a proximal portion thereof.
US08714271B2	Multi-purpose fill and circulate well tool A FAC tool for use in a well comprising a well casing. The FAC tool comprises a top drive connection for coupling the tool to a top drive; a push plate; a telescoping section coupling the push plate to the top drive connection; a packer cup configured to seal an annular space between the FAC tool and the well casing when the packer cup is energized; a packer element system comprising at least one packer moveable between a locked position in which the at least one packer is not energized, and an energized position, the packer element system being configured to seal the annular space between the FAC tool and the well casing when in the energized position; and a slip system comprising at least one slip, the slip system configured to lock the packer element in the energized position.
US08714270B2	Anchor assembly and method for anchoring a downhole tool An anchor assembly (400) for anchoring a downhole tool in a wellbore tubular. The anchor assembly (400) includes a plurality of slip arm assemblies each having first and second arms (412, 414) hingeably coupled together. The first and second arms (412, 414) each have teeth (418, 426) on one end. A first sleeve (402) is rotatably associated with each of the first arms (412) and a second sleeve (404) is rotatably associated with each of the second arms (414) such that the anchor assembly (400) has a running configuration in which the slip arm assemblies are substantially longitudinally oriented and an operating configuration in which the first and second arms (412, 414) of each slip arm assembly form an acute angle relative to one another such that the teeth (418, 426) of the first and second arms (412, 414) define the radially outermost portion of the anchor assembly (100).
US08714269B2	Hydraulically actuated standoff Hydraulically actuated standoffs for downhole tools are described. An example apparatus includes a downhole tool having a body defining an outer surface and a plurality of standoffs distributed about the outer surface. The example apparatus also includes a hydraulic circuit operatively coupled to the standoffs. The hydraulic circuit includes a plurality of hydraulically actuated pistons, each of which is operatively coupled to a respective one of the standoffs to extend and retract the respective standoff. The pistons are hydraulically coupled and sized to extend or retract the respective standoffs at substantially the same rate in response to a hydraulic control signal.
US08714268B2	Method of making and using multi-component disappearing tripping ball A method for making a tripping ball comprising configuring two or more parts to collectively make up a portion of a tripping ball; and assembling the two or more parts by adhering the two or more parts together with an adherent dissolvable material to form the tripping ball, the adherent dissolvable material operatively arranged to dissolve for enabling the two or more parts to separate from each other. A method of performing a pressure operation with a tripping ball is also included.
US08714263B2	Lightweight and compact subsea intervention package and method The present invention discloses apparatus and methods for a lightweight subsea intervention package that may be installed using vessels with a smaller lifting capacity than semi-submersible platforms so that the subsea intervention package can be transported, installed, and removed from a subsea well in less time and with less cost. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a lower riser package for controlling the subsea well which utilizes two hydraulically activated gate valves. An emergency disconnect package is secured to the lower riser package utilizing a disconnect mechanism. The emergency disconnect package is operable to seal the bottom of a riser if the disconnect mechanism is activated to thereby minimize environmental leakage of fluid from the riser.
US08714262B2	Methods of limiting or reducing the amount of oil in a sea using a fluid director According to an embodiment, a method of limiting the amount of oil in a sea comprises: positioning a device for directing the flow of a fluid adjacent to a wellhead, wherein the device comprises: a first fluid passageway; a second fluid passageway; a third fluid passageway, wherein the first fluid passageway is operatively connected to the second and third fluid passageways; and a fluid director, wherein the fluid director is operatively connected to the first, second, and third fluid passageways, and wherein depending on at least one of the properties of a fluid, the fluid director directs the fluid to increasingly flow into the second or third fluid passageways. This embodiment is useful in limiting the amount of oil when a blowout has occurred. According to another embodiment, a method of reducing the amount of oil in a sea comprises: inserting at least one component of the device for directing the flow of a fluid into a portion of a sea, wherein the portion of the sea comprises the oil, and wherein depending on at least one of the properties of a fluid, the fluid director directs the fluid to increasingly flow into the second or third fluid passageways. This embodiment is useful for reducing the amount of oil in a sea when an oil slick has occurred.
US08714261B2	Subsea deployment of submersible pump A technique for subsea operations utilizes a surface vessel to perform the installation and retrieval of submersible pumps or other tools with respect to a subsea well. A submersible pump is conveyed from a surface vessel to a subsea installation which is used to temporarily secure the submersible pump. Subsequently, the surface vessel is again used in cooperation with a conveyance to deliver the submersible pump to a desired location in a wellbore beneath the subsea installation.
US08714260B2	Multi-purpose well servicing apparatus An apparatus for cleaning the inner wall of wellbores and for capturing downhole wellbore debris. An elongated, tubular central mandrel is provided with recesses on its outer surface. Various service elements are interchangeably mounted over the split rings. The various service elements include stabilizers, brush assemblies, junk baskets and magnets.
US08714257B2	Pulse fracturing devices and methods A pulse fracturing device includes a normally open first valve and a normally closed second valve in a housing. The first valve is configured to close at a predetermined level of hydrodynamic force exerted on the first valve and to open when the force drops below the predetermined level. The first valve, when open, is configured to allow fluid flow out from the housing. The second valve is configured to open at a predetermined pressure within the housing and to close when pressure drops below the predetermined pressure. The second valve, when open, is configured to allow fluid flow out from the housing.
US08714252B2	Shock load mitigation in a downhole perforation tool assembly A perforation tool assembly comprises an energy train, a first perforation gun, and a second perforation gun. The energy train comprises a moderator to reduce the speed of propagation of a detonation in a direction parallel to the axis of the perforation tool assembly. The first perforation gun comprises a plurality of explosive charges coupled to a first portion of the energy train. The second perforation gun comprises a plurality of explosive charges coupled to a second portion of the energy train, wherein the second portion of the energy train is coupled to the first portion of the energy train.
US08714250B2	Multilayered ball sealer and method of use thereof A multilayered ball sealer having a deformable layer. The multilayered ball sealer has an outer or intermediate layer that is deformable under pressure. In the former, the deformable layer may be water-soluble or hydrolysable. In the latter, the outer layer is a sheath that contains the deformable layer and adapts to its shape. A multilayered ball sealer may be used as a diversion agent by being suspended in a fluid injected into a wellbore and applying pressure to deform the shape of the intermediate layer such that the multilayered ball sealer adapts to the shape of a perforation opening on which the multilayered ball sealer has seated.
US08714248B2	Method of gravel packing Gravel packing a region of a wellbore is carried out using one or more hydrophobically-surfaced particulate materials as the gravel. Placing the gravel pack is carried out using an aqueous carrier liquid, with hydrophobic particulate material suspended in the liquid and a gas to wet the surface of the particles and bind them together as agglomerates. The presence of gas lowers the density of the agglomerates relative to the particulate material in them, so that transport of the particulates is improved. The invention enables the placing of longer, uniformly packed, gravel packs, especially in horizontal and near horizontal wellbores.
US08714247B1	Sulfonated amphoteric surfactants for IOR Sulfonated betaines amine oxides, and sultaines are made by the reaction of the corresponding unsaturated betaines or sultaines. These are formulated into injection fluids suitable for the recovery of residual oil from subterranean reservoirs. The sulfonated betaines, amine oxides, and sultaines exhibit lower adsorption onto reservoir rock compared to their corresponding unsulfonated betaines, amine oxides, and sultaines. They can be used in applications where their respective amphoteric surfactants are currently used such as personal care, mining, improved oil recovery (IOR), oil field drilling, fracturing, acidizing, foaming, oil field stimulation, and agricultural formulations.
US08714245B2	Coiled tubing orienter tool with high torque planetary gear stage design drive A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. A planetary gearbox assembly incorporates a sun wheel which cooperates with planet wheels at a plurality of levels along the planetary gear box assembly. The sun wheel and the planet wheels cooperate to convert rotational input to rotational output through an output carrier. Torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel and the output carrier are selected to distribute torque loading across the plurality of levels of the planetary gear box assembly. The distributed forces reduce the potential for component failure.
US08714243B2	Methods and apparatus relating to expansion tools for tubular strings An expansion tool for use in a wellbore includes an expansion surface made up of a concave portion, a convex portion and a straight section therebetween. The straight section is formed according to a formula Y=(1.26) (X)−0.13, where X is the wall thickness of a tubular and Y is the length of the straight section. The concave portion and the convex portion have an arc length extending the concave portion to a trailing edge of the tool. The concave and convex portions are radius-shaped. The arrangement of the shapes and their relation to each other reduces relatively high and low contact pressures and lessens the effects of axial bending in a tubular or a connection.
US08714242B2	Anchor assembly An anchor assembly can anchor a downhole power unit in a wellbore. The anchor assembly can couple to a downhole power unit and can include a coupling member supported by a supporting member in a body. The supporting member can move vertically relative to the body in response to a force and the coupling member can move radially between an expanded position and a retracted position in response to movement by the supporting member. The coupling member in the expanded position can anchor the anchor assembly.
US08714241B2	Apparatus and method for sealing portions of a wellbore An apparatus for controlling fluid flow in a borehole in an earth formation includes a carrier configured to be deployed in the borehole and a shape memory device disposed at the carrier that includes a shape memory material having a glass transition temperature. The shape memory material is configured to modify the glass transition temperature to a temperature lower than a borehole temperature in response to a trigger, and change from a glass state to a rubber state in response to the borehole temperature to prevent fluid flowing through the shape memory device.
US08714233B2	Casting process, materials and apparatus, and castings produced therewith A casting process for producing metal alloy castings, facecoats and apparatuses suitable for carrying out the process, and castings produced by the process. The casting process entails the use of a mold having a cavity with a continuous aluminum-containing solid facecoat on its surface. A molten quantity of a metal alloy is introduced into the mold cavity so that the molten alloy contacts the solid facecoat. The mold is then allowed to cool to solidify the molten alloy and form a cast product. During the casting process, aluminum in the solid facecoat diffuses into the cast product to form an aluminum-containing surface region at the casting surface. Following removal of the cast product from the mold, an alumina-containing scale grows on the casting surface as a result of oxidation of the casting surface region.
US08714232B2	Method of making a brake component One exemplary embodiment includes a method that calls for supporting an insert in a mold cavity of a casting die by way of one or more spacers, introducing a molten material into the mold cavity such that the one or more spacers are melted and consumed by the molten material, and wherein the one or more spacers and the molten material are of the same composition.
US08714231B2	Aluminum-and-amorphous alloy composite and method for manufacturing An aluminum-and-amorphous alloy composite includes an aluminum part and an amorphous alloy part. The aluminum part has an aluminum oxide film formed on a surface thereof. The aluminum oxide film defines nano-pores. The amorphous alloy part is integrally bonded to the surface of the aluminum part having the aluminum oxide film. A method for manufacturing the composite is also described.
US08714228B2	Mounting device, and method for mounting and dismounting a vehicle tire on a wheel rim A mounting device for mounting or dismounting a vehicle tire on a wheel rim, the wheel rim or the wheel being supported on a mounting table and a pressing-down device being provided for sliding the vehicle tire on the wheel rim. A movement of the pressing-down device is essentially parallel to the wheel axis for sliding the vehicle tire on the wheel rim or pulling off the vehicle tire from the wheel rim.
US08714225B2	Systems and methods for bonding using microwave energy Disclosed are systems and methods for bonding wafers by use of microwave energy. Various components that facilitate relatively quick and efficient bonding provided by microwave energy are disclosed. In certain embodiments, devices and methods for applying desirable compression to the wafers can be implemented. In certain embodiments, devices and methods for providing a controlled gas environment such as vacuum can be implemented. In certain embodiments, devices and methods for maintaining the integrity of microwave mode of operation during the bonding process can be implemented. In certain embodiments, devices and methods for increasing throughput of the bonding process can be implemented.
US08714223B2	Corrugating machine for producing corrugated board and related method The machine for producing a corrugated board includes a first corrugating roller (3) and a second corrugating roller (5) defining a corrugating nip (7) through which a first web material (N1) passes. A gluing unit (9) applies a glue on crests of the first web material (N1) formed in the corrugating nip (7). A pressing member (11) cooperates with the second corrugating roller (5) to press a second web material (N2) against the crests of the first web material (N1). A pressure regulating system adjusts the pressure of the pressing member (11) against the second corrugating roller (5). At least a first pressure chamber (27C), which contains a pressure liquid and a pressure transducer, is associated with a first abutment (33) for said pressing member (11). A control unit (69) opens a stop valve (39) when the pressure detected by the pressure transducer (37) is outside a tolerance range.
US08714221B2	Pneumatic tire A pneumatic tire 2 includes a tread 4, a pair of sidewalls 6, a pair of beads 8, and a carcass 10. In the pair of beads 8, each bead 8 includes a core 30 and a bead filler 32 extending outward from the core 30 in the radial direction. A minimal value θa of the inclination angle of the bead filler 32 is greater than or equal to 30 degrees, and is not greater than 44 degrees. A ratio Wa/Wb of a width Wa of the bead filler 32 to a width Wb of a bead portion is greater than or equal to 0.30, and is not greater than 0.45.
US08714220B2	Transmission assembly and wheel thereof A transmission assembly and a wheel thereof are presented, and the wheel includes a wheel frame and a tire skin. The wheel frame has a ring-shaped joint surface surrounding the wheel frame, and the joint surface is disposed with at least one slot. The slot has two opposite side walls and at least one stopping wall, and the stopping wall is located between the two side walls. The tire skin is ring-shaped. The tire skin is sleeved on the wheel frame, and attached to the joint surface. The tire skin has at least one protruding rib, and the protruding rib is located in the slot. The stopping wall limits displacement of the protruding rib in a direction of a wheel shaft, and the two side walls limit displacement of the protruding rib in a direction of rotation, thus achieving a good combination effect between the tire skin and the wheel frame.
US08714214B2	Mis-fuel inhibitor A mis-fuel inhibitor in an inlet neck assembly of a vehicle fuel system discriminates between nozzle diameters, allowing entrance of nozzle diameters at or greater than a predetermined minimum diameter while inhibiting entrance of nozzles having diameters less than the predetermined minimum diameter. An actuator responsive to nozzle diameters engages and disengages locking arms that are associated with a primary shutoff valve flapper door.
US08714210B2	Select-fill dispensing system A select-fill dispensing system and method for a dispenser assembly utilizes a camera to sense a desired fill level based on the location of a user's finger with respect to a container. In use, a consumer places his or her finger along a container to indicate the desired fill level of the container. Image data from the camera is transmitted to a controller and processed for distortion correction, edge based image segmentation and morphological operations are carried out to remove background noise. The processed image data is utilized to detect the presence of the container, as well as the shape of the container, the position of the container opening, and the top and bottom points of the container. The controller provides a means for controlling the dispensing operation, including a fill rate, based on the desired fill level and the shape of the container.
US08714208B2	Container for receiving a fluid A container is provided comprising a receiving vessel (12) and an outlet part (14), wherein the outlet part (14) comprises a one-way valve (24) and at least one bypass passage (32) bypassing the one-way valve (24), wherein the outlet part (14) is at least partly movable with respect to the receiving vessel (12) between a closed position and an opened position, wherein in the closed position the receiving vessel (12) seals the bypass passage (32) and in the opened position the receiving vessels (12) unseals the bypass passage (32). Due to the one-way valve (24) of the alternative container (10) the filling is facilitated without complicating emptying, since it is prevented that the content (42) of the container (10) flows back accidently.
US08714207B2	Vertical round container for storing liquids, and arrangement comprising a plurality of containers A vertical round container (1) for storing liquids comprises a floating cover (6) covering the surface of the liquid. The cover is sealed in relation to the container wall by means of flexible sealing elements (18, 19) and includes, on the lower side thereof, at least one compartment (62) which is open towards the liquid and contains gaseous media/vapors. Devices (40a) are provided for determining the submersion depth of the cover, and supply/discharge lines (29) are provided for modifying the quantity of the gaseous medium in the at least one compartment. The supply/discharge lines for the gaseous medium are connected to a central unit (28) provided outside the container region.
US08714206B2	Styrenic insulation for pipe Coatings for protecting and insulating fluid and/or gas transport conduits, such as off-shore oil and gas pipelines operating at temperatures of up to 100° C. in water depths above 1,000 meters. The outer surface of the conduit is provided with at least one layer of thermal insulation comprising polystyrene or styrene-based thermoplastic, having low thermal conductivity, high thermal softening point, high compressive strength and high compressive creep resistance.
US08714205B2	Delayed degradability drip irrigation pipe A delayed degradability drip irrigation pipe including a water conduit at a water conduit pressure and a plurality of drip irrigation outlets, each communicating with the water conduit and providing a water output at a pressure below the water conduit pressure, at least the water conduit being formed at least partially of a degradable material and also including a degradability delayer which provides a desired delay prior to failure of the water conduit but permits eventual degradation of the degradable material under predetermined conditions.
US08714196B2	Valve Manifold A valve manifold includes a valve body carrying pairs of laterally spaced piston actuated valves controlled by control modules operative to selectively pressurize and exhaust an outlet port connected to a fluid device and configured in groupings permitting varying valve functionalities.
US08714190B2	Metal plate for dual plate check valve A metal plate for a dual plate check valve includes a substantially circular segment shaped plate member of a predetermined substantially uniform thickness and is pivotally mounted to enable rotation about an axis substantially parallel and adjacent to a chord. The plate member has a central portion and two extreme end portions distal to the central portion. The end portions are provided with reinforcements thereby increasing the thickness of the plate member in the end portions, the reinforcements being located so that when the plate member of the check valve is in a closed position, the end portions with reinforcements are in a radially outward direction from the valve seat of the check valve. When back pressure acts on the plate member, the reinforcements enable the plate member to distort substantially uniformly to maintain sealing contact with the valve seat.
US08714189B2	Flow valve A flow valve that may act as either an excess flow valve or a pressure relief valve has a seat and a valve body for sealing against the seat. The valve body has an integral spring arm for biasing the valve body towards or away from the seat to seal or open a flow of fluid, and a magnet cooperating with the spring arm to position the body relative to the seat to maintain the body in a first position during a normal flow condition and maintain the body in a second position in an abnormal flow condition.
US08714188B2	Method for water hammerless opening of fluid passage, and method for supplying chemical solutions and device for water hammerless opening for which the method is used The water hammerless opening device comprises an actuator operating type valve installed on the fluid passage, an electro-pneumatic conversion device to supply the 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa to the afore-mentioned actuator operating type valve, a vibration sensor removably fixed to the pipe passage on the upstream side of the actuator operating type valve, and a tuning box to which the vibration detecting signal Pr detected by the vibration sensor is inputted, through which the control signal Sc to control the step operating pressure Ps′ of the afore-mentioned 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa is outputted to the electro-pneumatic conversion device, and with which the 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa, of the step operating pressure Ps′ which makes the vibration detecting signal Pr nearly zero, is outputted from the electro-pneumatic conversion by adjusting the control signal Sc.
US08714187B2	Retention apparatus employing wedge element and engagement assembly for use in a nuclear application An improved retention apparatus includes a wedge element that is disposed between a brace element and a flow element of a nuclear reactor system. The retention apparatus further includes an engagement assembly that is engaged with the wedge element and that is structured to engage at least one of the brace element and the flow element. The engagement assembly includes a deflectable element such as a spring that is structured to apply a retention force in an engagement direction of the wedge element to resist movement of the flow element during operation of the nuclear reactor system, such as movement due to vibration.
US08714186B2	Pressure regulator housing assembly A pressure regulator housing assembly includes a lower housing and an upper housing; a plunger and diaphragm assembly supported within the lower and upper housings, the plunger movable toward and away from a valve seat. The diaphragm has a radially inner edge fixed to one end of the plunger and a radially outer edge clamped between an annular surface within said upper housing and a surface of a clamp ring locked against rotation relative to said upper housing thereby isolating said diaphragm from any contact with the lower housing. Upon assembly of the upper and lower housings requiring relative rotation therebetween, an upper edge of the lower housing is engaged by a lower surface of the clamp ring.
US08714185B2	Device for the piping of process systems in the food and beverage industry A device for the piping of process systems in the food and beverage industry in that: the respective valve distributor tree (rvdt) opens immediately into the lower tank bottom of a respectively associated tank of the process system, and/or the rvdt is connected via an associated pipe connection to an associated process aggregate or to the lower tank bottom of the process apparatus, and the pipe connection opens out into the tank-side or process-aggregate-side end of the valve distributor tree (vdt); a stirring device (16) which is operative in the entire interior space of the hollow structure is disposed in the vdt; and/or the vdt with the entire interior space of the hollow structure is part of a circulation line which extends over the tank or the process aggregate; and/or the vdt can be recuperatively acted upon by a heat transfer medium (W).
US08714184B1	Caged ball and spring valve rotator An improved ball type valve rotator is provided that includes a ball cage that may include an inner flange and outer walls that are connected to opposing inner and outer portions of a middle flange from which multiple ramps extend. The inner flange and outer walls may define respective boundaries of pockets that hold bearing balls and springs so that the bearing balls and springs are transversely confined between components that may be formed from a single piece of material.
US08714182B2	Valve for in-floor pool cleaning system Disclosed is a valve for use in in-floor pool cleaning systems. The valve has a housing with an inlet port, an internal cavity and multiple outlet ports. A drive source, which can be an impeller positioned in the cavity and in fluid communication with the inlet port, is directly or indirectly (such as by a gear assembly) connected to a fluid control plate that has one or more apertures. As fluid enters the cavity through the inlet port the drive rotates the fluid control plate. As the plate rotates the aperture(s) rotate to allow the fluid to pass through the aperture(s) and into the respective outlet ports.
US08714178B2	Valve stem connection structure of pressure reducing valve and method therefor In a valve stem connection structure of a pressure reducing valve, an insertion recess portion (72) opened toward a valve mechanism is coaxially provided in a diaphragm rod (68); a reduced diameter stem portion (30a) and a pair of enlarged diameter stem portions (30b, 30c) are provided in one end portion of the valve stem (30); a holding plate (74) is inserted into the insertion recess portion (72) while the reduced diameter stem portion (30a) is loosely inserted into the engaging recess portion (73); and an engaging ring (78) expandable and contractable in a radial direction of the valve stem (30) is engaged with an arc-shaped first engaging groove (76) provided in an outer periphery of the holding plate (74) and an annular second engaging groove (77) provided in an inner periphery of the insertion recess portion (72).
US08714169B2	Spin head, apparatus for treating substrate, and method for treating substrate Provided is a spin head supporting a substrate and rotating the substrate. The spin head includes a body, chuck pins installed on the body and moving between supporting positions where a substrate is supported and waiting positions providing space for loading/unloading of the substrate, and a chuck pin moving unit configured to move the chuck pins. The chuck pin moving unit includes a rotation rod coupled with each of the chuck pins, a pivot pin fixing the rotation rod to the body, and a driving member rotating the rotation rod about the pivot pin as a rotation shaft to move the chuck pin from the supporting position to the waiting position. When the body rotates, the rotation rod uses reverse centrifugal force to apply force to the chuck pin from the waiting position to the supporting position. The chuck pins include first pins and second pins that alternately chuck a substrate during a process.
US08714160B2	Method and apparatus for performing transesophageal cardiovascular procedures An apparatus for performing a transesophageal cardiovascular procedure includes an elongated tubular main access device having a first lumen with an open proximal end and a distal side opening, and a second lumen with a rigid outer wall and a collapsible inner wall. The second lumen is adapted to receive an elongated probe or surgical device. The apparatus further includes an inflatable sealing component on the outside of the main access device above and below the side opening, and a first fluid conduit extending along the main access device for inflating the sealing component so that when the main access device is inserted into a patient's esophagus and the sealing component is inflated. The portion of the esophagus opposite the side opening is isolated from the remainder of the esophagus above and below the side opening.
US08714158B2	Apparatus and method for cushioning a ventilation mask Embodiments of apparatuses and methods for preventing facial wounds caused by an applied ventilation mask are provided. For example, the apparatus includes a cushion formed in an inverted “V” shape, wherein the cushion comprises a superior portion and two inferior portions, wherein the superior portion corresponds to the vertex of the inverted “V” shape, wherein the superior portion is configured to cushion the nose of a human, and wherein the two inferior portions are configured to cushion the cheekbones of a human.
US08714149B2	Airflow adaptor for a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler An airflow adaptor for a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler. The airflow adaptor includes a conduit having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end allows fluid communication from a deagglomerator outlet port to the distal end of the conduit, and wherein the airflow adaptor further includes provisions for allowing air to flow from a proximal end of the adaptor to a distal end of the adaptor independently of the airflow in the conduit when a breath induced low pressure is applied to the distal end of the airflow adaptor.
US08714148B2	Locking apparatus for locking a cooking device door A locking apparatus for locking a cooking device door is provided that includes a locking element, a motor for moving the locking element, and a stop in the cooking device door which restricts the movement of the locking element in a locking position. In order to provide a locking apparatus for locking a cooking device door with improved properties in terms of reliability of the lock, the locking apparatus includes a device for detecting a core variable for a movement path covered by the locking element.
US08714144B2	Interchangeable gun barrel apparatus and methods A system and related methods for interchanging barrels on a gun and packaging such components is described herein. Preferably, the system includes a barrel having a first end, a second end, and a shaft between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the barrel includes a clamping screw notch and a barrel indexing surface formed on the shaft. The system further includes a breech block having a barrel housing formed therein having a first end, a second end, and a hollow core therebetween for receiving the barrel, and an indexing pin positioned to engage the barrel indexing surface upon receipt of the barrel through the barrel housing. The first end of the barrel housing is adapted to engage the receiver of the gun. The second end of the barrel housing includes a clamp and a clamping screw orifice formed therein for receiving a clamping screw. Preferably a portion of the clamping screw extends partially into the barrel housing to engage the clamping screw notch upon receipt of the barrel through the barrel housing, although alternatives such as a set screw are also disclosed. Tightening of (1) the clamping screw within the clamping screw orifice or (2) the set screw removably joins the barrel to the barrel housing.
US08714138B2	Intake structure of motorcycle A motorcycle having a head pipe, a vehicle body frame including a pair of left and right main flames extending rearward from the head pipe, and an engine below the vehicle body frame and including a cylinder having an inclined cylinder axis, and an intake device. The intake device has an air cleaner box above the engine and the main frames; a throttle body provided with throttle bores and a valve shaft penetrating the throttle bores, the throttle body is located on a rear side of the engine between the pair of left and right main frames and guides intake air from the air cleaner box to the engine; and a measuring device located on a rear side of the throttle body which rotates about a rotational shaft parallel to the valve shaft to measure a throttle operation amount.
US08714136B2	Direct fuel-injection engine In a direct fuel-injection engine equipped with a pentroof-shaped piston, cross-sectional shapes containing a piston central axis (Lp) of a cavity recessed in a central part of the piston having a top face with the height varying in the circumferential direction are set so as to be basically identical at each position in the circumferential direction (see broken line). Since the sizes of the cross-sectional shapes of the cavity thereby become different in a region further on the piston central axis (Lp) side than intersection points (e1, d1) in the vicinity of a fuel injection point (Oinj), in order to compensate for this, by correcting in a cross section that is away from the piston pin direction the cross-sectional shape of the broken line into the cross-sectional shape of a solid line so that it enlarges, the size of the cross-sectional shape at each position of the circumferential direction of the cavity is thereby made more uniform, thus making the conditions in which fuel and air are mixed uniform and improving the engine output and reducing harmful exhaust materials.
US08714133B2	Oil pump housing of an internal combustion engine An oil pump housing of an internal combustion engine flanged to a crankshaft housing, which includes, but is not limited to an oil pump housing wall. The oil pump housing has an oil collecting tray in an upper region of the oil pump housing wall. An oil return channel is integrated in the oil pump housing. An oil return channel extends from an oil inlet opening in the oil collecting tray as far as an oil outlet opening in an area below an oil pan level.
US08714131B2	Method of manufacturing an engine block A method for manufacturing an engine block includes removing material from the top deck of the engine block surrounding a first opening to create a first recessed area, positioning a first insert within the first recessed area, removing material from the top deck of the engine block surrounding a second opening to create a second recessed area that at least partially overlaps the first recessed area, and positioning a second insert within the second recessed area.
US08714127B2	Balance shaft module of engine A balance shaft module of an engine, may include a crank sprocket driving gear for receiving a power of a crankshaft of the engine, a crank sprocket driven gear engaged with the crank sprocket driving gear and receiving a power of the crank sprocket driving gear, a first balance shaft arranged coaxially with the crank sprocket driven gear and having a first driving gear to receive a power from the crank sprocket driven gear, and a second balance shaft receiving a power through a second driven gear engaged with the first driving gear.
US08714125B2	Valve gear of engine A valve drive system of an engine includes a camshaft that is supported by a cylinder head of the engine and on which a plurality of cams having different valve lift characteristics are arranged at predetermined intervals, a rocker shaft that is supported by the cylinder head so as to be parallel or substantially parallel to the camshaft, and a rocker arm that is swingably supported by the rocker shaft. The rocker arm is arranged between one of the cams and an intake valve or an exhaust valve and is arranged so as to be movable in an axial direction of the rocker shaft. A presser of the rocker arm that presses the intake valve or the exhaust valve extends in the axial direction and has a length greater than an interval between the cams. The valve drive system includes a drive unit that moves the rocker arm toward one side or toward an opposite side in the axial direction by the interval between the cams.
US08714123B2	Oil pressure modification for variable cam timing Systems and methods for modifying oil pressure for a variable cam timing system are provided. In one example approach, a method comprises, in response to an operating condition, adjusting a valve coupled to a hydraulic variable camshaft timing actuator to initiate camshaft phasing and adjusting an oil pressure supplied to the valve based on a camshaft phaser position. If a camshaft phaser locking pin is in a home position, the method may further comprise reducing the oil pressure supplied to the valve for a predetermined time interval to a threshold amount to unlock the locking pin but not move the camshaft phaser and then increasing the oil pressure supplied to the valve to move the camshaft phaser.
US08714119B2	Parallel cycle internal combustion engine with double headed, double sided piston arrangement The disclosed invention includes a heat engine where combustion, expansion, and compression are independent, continuous, parallel cycles. The disclosed engine includes a crankcase situated between two axially-aligned, opposed cylinder blocks. Each opposed cylinder block contains zero-clearance cylinders. An oscillating two-headed piston separates each cylinder into expansion and compression chambers. A connecting rod connects the piston heads of opposed cylinder pairs, and articulates with a central, linear-throw, planetary crank mechanism. A single, rotary disk valve mates with each external expander face of the paired, opposed cylinder blocks to regulate expansion and exhaust functions. Controllable intake and outlet valves, integrated within each internal compressor face of the paired cylinder blocks, regulate intake, compression, and regenerative engine braking functions. A separate combustion chamber with heat regeneration capabilities and at least one compressed-air storage reservoir are included.

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